Hurricane Sandy Relief Holiday Drive

My husband and I along with our families have decided to not exchange gifts this year instead we are purchasing gifts for the victims of Hurricane Sandy which hit NY/NJ.  If you have any young children that would like to make holiday cards for the victims please let me know and I can send you an address to mail them to.  These people either lost their house, job, or what is left of their house they had significant damage to.  Please help us in making their holiday better.  Also if you would like to donate any new toys or gifts for adults let me know.

Help Hurricane Sandy Victims

I know this is not food related....well actually it is.  There are thousands of people near me that lost everything in the wake of hurricane sandy.  They have no shelter, basic necessities, and no FOOD.  My husband and I wanted to do something to help so we turned our house into a donation center.  We had a ton of our family and friends come by and donate items that are needed and a HUGE shipment going out tomorrow morning to the affected areas.  Here are some pictures of the devastation in our area.


PLEASE if you are willing to help go to http://rockcenter.nbcnews.com/_news/2012/11/01/14861838-hurricane-sandy-how-you-can-help?lite.


Photos
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My sister in law and I collecting items to donate.

Aftermath of Hurricane Sandy

Pepperoni Pizza Dip

1 pk (8oz) cream cheese
2 cups of pizza sauce
2 cups mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup chopped pepperoni
1/2 tsp dried basil

Heat oven to 350.  In a shallow baking dish spread cream cheese, then tomato sauce, pepperoni then top with mozzarella cheese and sprinkle basil on top.  Bake for 20 minutes or until the cheese is completely melted.  Serve with chips or crostini bread.

Garlic Ciabatta Pizza Bites

My poor mother had surgery on her mouth and when she see's this she is going to be so upset because she can't eat it.  Sorry Ma' I will make you some when you can eat :)

1 loaf garlic ciabatta bread

2 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella

2 cups pizza sauce

add your favorite toppings

Heat oven to 350.  Cut load of bread in half lengthwise.  Add tomato sauce and full cover bread.  Top with mozzarella and then add your favorite toppings.  Cook for 20 minutes or until bread is golden brown and cheese is melted.  Cut into bite size pieces and serve

Mini Italian Ham & Cheese Frittata

6 large eggs

1/2 cup cubed cooked ham

1/2 cup shredded Italian Cheese Blend

Preheat oven to 350.  Place eggs in a bowl whisk with a fork.  Add ham & cheese.  Place mixture into a mini muffin tin.  ONly fill each one half way.  Bake for 15 minutes or until eggs are cooked.  To make sure eggs are cooked place a tooth pick in the middle and remove.  The toothpick should be clean and have no egg on it.  Plate and serve.  Great for the road or for brunch.  

Chocolate Chip Cookie Cheesecake Cups

1 package of cookie dough
1 8oz package of cream cheese
1/2 cup powdered sugare
1/4 tsp vanilla extract
mini chocolate chips

Preheat oven to 375.  Using a mini muffin tin place cookie dough on the bottom and slightly press to have cookie dough on the side (making it look like a cup).  Only fill the cup half way.  Bake for 10-12 minutes, set aside and cool.  TIP:  5 minutes into cooking remove the muffin tin for the oven and slightly press down on each cookie with a spoon to ensure it keeps its cup shape.  Place back in the oven and continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes.

In a glass bowl add cream cheese, sugar and vanilla.  Beat well with a hand mixer.  Place mixture into each cooled cup and top with chocolate chips.  Serve or place in the fridge.

Peanut Butter Cup Apple Bites

1 cup crushed heath bar

1 cup crushed granola

2 apples

1 package Baker's Dipping Chocolate (cook per directions on package)

1 cup peanut butter

Cut apples into bite size pieces and place a tooth pick in each slice.  Dip in peanut butter then in melted chocolate.  Top with either crushed heath bar or granola and place on a tray covered in parchment paper.  Once finished place in the fridge for 1 hour or overnight.  Plate and serve.  Great for parties or for kids.