Heloooo there! How's summer treating you? Is it hotter than hot? I'll tell you, it is hotter than hot in Arizona. That's why, we need to get a little tropical around here...
I made a fruit punch just for you...
And maybe even a deviled egg, or two ;) I have Chinese parsley growing in my garden, so I used it for garnish...
Would you say it's about that time for making deviled eggs?
Let's go for it. My ingredients for deviled eggs are, Best Foods mayo, 3 garlic cloves, 1/8th of a sweet onion, a quarter piece of celery, a drizzle of white vinegar and paprika sprinkles for effect. No salt. The celery and mayo give you more than enough.
The amount of eggs you will make is completely up to you.
(the lighting is weird because of our sun shades on the windows)
The most important important important part of this recipe is that you "WILL NOT" use all of the garlic, celery and sweet onion mixture, unless you are making a hundred eggs :) Please keep that in mind.
So, start by boiling your eggs until fully cooked. Peel them, cut them in half (length wise) and remove the yolks (you will use them to make your egg filling). Set all the parts aside to cool.
(To cook/boil my eggs, I pop them in a pot of cold water and I put a teaspoon of salt into the water, which makes the water boil faster. I cook them on the stove at a "medium-high setting" and as soon as the water starts to boil, I set my timer for 9 minutes and allow the eggs to boil for that amount of time. When the timer rings, I ladle the eggs into a bowl of cold water that I have waiting in the sink. I crack and peel them while running them under the cold tap - please be careful not to burn yourself.)
Next, you will need a hand mixer and a little electric chopper. Pop your veggies into your chopper until they are minced to tiny bits.
The reason I am not giving exact measurements is because I make my recipe "to taste" depending on how many eggs I am using.
Put your yolks in a bowl, add a couple tablespoons of mayo, just enough to make your mixture creamy, but not runny. Add a cap full of white vinegar, and then a dollop of your garlic, sweet onion and celery mixture.
This is all I am using for 6 eggs. About a tablespoon and a half. It is better to use less at first, you can always add more.
(I use the left over mixture for oodles of things, including making guacamole)
The reason you must use a hand mixer is because you want to break up the yolk very well, and you also want to break up the veggies a bit more while integrating them into the mixture.
Once you arrive at a creamy texture, taste the egg filling to see if you would like to add more of the veggie mixture...
You can refrigerate your mixture (before putting it into the egg white shells) and it will thicken up. I sometimes refrigerate my mixture overnight and fill my egg whites the next day.
I filled them right away this morning, which is why they look a bit creamier than usual. That, and it is crazy hot outside...
But, that's it. Those are my secret ingredients :) A little paprika sprinkled on them at the end, because Mister must have his paprika, and a little garnish if you wish...
Voila. I hope you like them. They have a delicious flavorful kick.
Mister really loves you all who wanted the recipe because he got to have them for breakfast. A nice treat in this weather. Can you imagine, at 9 a.m. this is what the temp. was in the shade...
It's the time of the year where our water will now be warm to hot the rest of the summer. No more cold water out of the tap. No more cool showers even, unless it's 3 a.m. Isn't that just peachy?
It's the perfect time for dancing in fountains...
Yesterday was my parents 40th wedding anniversary. They were in town because they were going to be flying out for New Mexico very early the next day. We wanted to go to Vivace's new pizzeria (located next to the fine dining restaurant) but it was closed on Sunday.
So my cousins and siblings (college kids) suggested a traditional pizzeria we had never been to (I am not a pizza person at all unless I attempt to make it at home from scratch, which has only happened twice in my life).
Into town we drove...
I was leery about the place at first. But it turned out to be wonderful.
It was fun and dare I say, for a non-pizza eater, the pizza was gooooood!
The monster thick pizza was not doughy at all. It was crunchy in fact, and airy and perfect...
My cousin gave my Mammie a bottle of wine, which she appropriately popped in her handbag. Saying "just in case." SO funny.
Mama's Pizza, we'll be back...
As we were leaving, we stood outside chatting a bit. That's when I felt a little finger poke my derriere. I quickly turned around to see an adorable 7 year old (or so) asking me "Hey, what's your name?" I could tell he might have a disability, his mother pulled him away from me apologetically, and said, "I don't know why he does that. It's so strange, sometimes he gravitates to a person, and he must ask their name." I was so touched. I wanted to hug the boy, but I smiled and told him my name and asked his.
Of course, my Mom gushed away telling him how sweet and handsome he was. And then, another little face shows up and says, I am his brother, my name is... And I tell you, these boys had this heartbreak adorable factor. It just stuck with me big time. My Mom was just going on and on telling them how handsome and lovely they were. It was one of those experiences, where you think those two little boys have some "angel" quality to them for certain...
Precious moments I tell ya.
I also saved a couple bugs from drowning. Silly rascals. "Oh Vanessa leave them alone" is what I heard. But I stuck my arm into the fountain and pulled them out. Poor desperate little fellas. Who knows, I mean, a bugs life can be rough ;)
I am certain I heard them say "Thank You Miss..."
Driving home is always so pretty. I love my city. I love the mountains. The country house is 30+ miles on the other side of these mountains (you go around, not through them). This is the front side of the Santa Catalina Mountains, of which you see the backside from my garden...
Oh, and guess what? I just found out, I have a new neighbor. He is so dashing. So gorgeous. Such a physique! He likes to hang out on his patio...
He is Bachelor Cowboy's new roommate. Did you know that all the properties that surround mine are inhabited by bachelors? There's a little pointless trivia for ya ;)
I best be on my way, I have something important to attend to...
Cheers to summertime! Here is a funny little summertime video for your start of the week...
See you soooon!
♥,V
.
Happy Anniversary! 40! wow! I thought my 23 was a lot!
Thanks for the deviled egg recipe. I have a hard time finding a good one!
I'm so glad to be catching up with your adventures. It's SO HOT here, and now when we get to Sedona...
...hot...?!
off to read more..
Posted by: Chris | July 13, 2009 at 02:11 PM
Hi sweetie V...
Soooo are any of these bachelor neighbor guys of yours cute? I'm waiting for a fix up.. You know I AM your FAVORITE, right?
Guess what? My 30th high school class reunion is this coming weekend and I'm so excited and nervous... I'll let you know how that goes... As always, I adore you!!! Chrissi
Posted by: chrissi | July 13, 2009 at 03:01 PM
Happy Anniversary!
Deviled eggs - I haven't had them in YEARS - and I love them! I'll have to print this out and save it for the weekend - thanks!
Love love love the cut out animation to Billie Holiday! Fun - and gorgeous!~
Posted by: tristanrobin | July 13, 2009 at 03:12 PM
I add horseradish to my deviled egg mixture...yummy!! I am enamored with pizza! Your pics had me drooling! In my journeying, I always take a break for pizza! LOL!!!
Hugging you
SueAnn
Posted by: SueAnn | July 13, 2009 at 03:36 PM
The heat, omg, the HEAT! nonono.
My mom adds mustard to deviled eggs and I devour them. Maybe it's a Southern thing? All I know is it didn't help my cholesterol a bit growing up.
(Can you pass me that drinky-poo in the last picture? I've had a horrid couple of days. http://snipurl.com/n5za8 )
Posted by: Lori Anderson | July 13, 2009 at 04:08 PM
thanks for the devilled eggs recipe! i think the next time i make them i'll use the hand mixer. that'll solve the 'clumpy' issues we've been having. as always, very charming post!
Posted by: the retro kitchen goddess | July 13, 2009 at 04:28 PM
All looks so yummy. I love the photo of your Mammie with the wine bottle! It should be a postcard with her quote on it! Oooo the drink photo would be a great postcard also. I no longer save bees in the pool after my little incident...now I hold them down with the net and drown them first!
**blows kisses** Deborah
Posted by: Deborah | July 13, 2009 at 04:50 PM
V~
Oh..goodness....Deviled Eggs and Billie Holiday...LOVE IT!! I'm going to have my hubby make the eggies for me since I'm a HORRID cook...(yikes)
Your pics are amazing!! Such a scenic (Even if sweltering HOT) beautiful place to live. It got to be around 108 today here in Okie-ville. I'm melting...I'm melting...
Have a wonderful week Miss V
XOXO
Kylee
p.s. I watched Revolutionary Road...very good movie....but you might need tissues :-(
Posted by: Kylee Ward | July 13, 2009 at 05:10 PM
Sounds like a wonderful time was had by all!! Your new neighbor is mighty fine looking ;) Btw, love your mom's handbag!!
Posted by: Trish | July 13, 2009 at 05:24 PM
Your mom's handbag is awfully nice. Especially with a good bottle of wine. Sorry it's so hot. I hear New Mexico (son lives there) is bad too right now. Here, in Oregon, it's cool. Yes, the story was printed in our Hillsboro, Oregon newspaper, The Argus. You can see the story online at oregonlive.com/Argus and look on the left-hand sidebar for the Focus section (women's stuff) for the Blogger's Tea Party story. It was such fun writing about it and just doing it. I've had lots of comments. I'm not sure if people thought I was "cool" or "odd" ... but who cares? Nice visit here. I'll be back - Jeanne in Oregon
Posted by: Jeanne | July 13, 2009 at 05:34 PM
Fantastic post!... like always!
your photos are just beautiful!
xoxo
Posted by: Marina Capano | July 13, 2009 at 05:37 PM
OOh that punch looks good! Of course, the weather here (mid 70s to lower 80s) is probably quite mild compared to Arizona weather, but still hot..hehee, I'm already thinking about fall and Halloween..isn't that silly? *siggggh* But I should enjoy summer while it's here. Maybe you'll throw another fabulous party for Halloween...a girl can dream, right?
Posted by: Krista Komis | July 13, 2009 at 05:42 PM
I hate to say what weather we're having this year...it's reached the 80s only a handful of times and has been practically no humidity here in NY. Unusual, but we HAVE had a LOT of rain the past month. I've probably just jinxed myself and the heat wave that's been every where else will arrive asap.
Posted by: Pixie | July 13, 2009 at 05:46 PM
I love that song!! How funny all your neighbors are bachelors. Happy 40th to your folks.
Take care,
Tracy M.
Posted by: Tracy M. | July 13, 2009 at 06:08 PM
Hmmmmn... everything looked yummy. What a sweet little boy and hahaha about saving the bugs. You are too cute ;)
Posted by: Emily @ Art-n-sewl | July 13, 2009 at 06:18 PM
Happy Anniversary to your parents! That's wonderful! And thanks for the recipe! It sounds perfect for a summertime picnic! Hope it cools off there soon! Take care!
Posted by: Lavender Dreams | July 13, 2009 at 06:47 PM
Those bugs are super cool! I'm so proud you are not a 'fraidy cat girl who runs squealing from wee creatures (like scorpions and snakes...and mousies and bunnies)
...but lookit your deviled eggs! Oh, my. I better not let Cowboy read this post over my shoulder. I might have to get crafty in the kitchen. {{shudder}} tis too hot to eat anything but freezy fruity pops and salads!
Happy Anniversary mama y papa! Celebramos!
xoxoxoxoxox
PS Brava for you and mom. My aunt has been in a wheelchair since she was a young child and has a speech impediment; but if you talk to her for anything over a minute, you know she is smart and funny and a joy to know. I think some people are embarrassed around people with any type of challenge or ailment, because they aren't sure what to say or how to act, and when its a child, maybe sorrow and a little guilt. I think you just love them like the wonderful children from God they are ♥
Posted by: Rhonda Roo | July 13, 2009 at 06:54 PM
Oh those eggs are a wee bit devilish aren't they! YUM-O!! Will try out your recipe for sure!
Love your photos! Always magical!! And your story with the little boys was so sweet!
And your new "neigh"bor is gorgeous!!! Lucky girl ;)
Denise
Posted by: Denise | July 13, 2009 at 07:37 PM
Those deviled eggs look delectably delish!!! I'll have to make them for hubby as a treat and won't he be surprised when he finds I've made something for him to eat. BUT, I'm with Rooty Tooty Tooty Roo...fruity Popsicles are about all I can do! And we aren't even at 102.
Now my Fanciful friend have I got a Pizza recipe for you!!! It involves Pesto, marinated artichoke hearts, Roma tomatoes,and a bevy of other delightful flavors. Yummy Yum!!!
Oh I survived my ceiling attach...Yay!!!
xoxo Cori
Posted by: Cori. G | July 13, 2009 at 08:54 PM
Hope you've got some air con in that abode of yours dear girl! Or maybe you're soaking in the backyard tub....if so it's no wonder there are so many bachelors around your place!
Posted by: Chrisy | July 13, 2009 at 08:55 PM
Okay, Vanessa!! It's almost 9:30 p.m. here and now I'm starving after looking at all of the wonderful drinks and munchies on this post! ACK!!!!!!!! Everything looks so yummy! Thank you for the recipe....those little devilish eggs look like heaven! I think I'm even a little cooler after my visit here! Happy Tuesday to my favorite artist with the mostest! : )
xoxo
VB
Posted by: Velvet Brick | July 13, 2009 at 09:23 PM
even an outing to the pizzeria has a magical flare with you at the helm!
Posted by: Lady P | July 13, 2009 at 09:52 PM
I checked in with you before going to bed...and I'm so glad I did. It is nice to end the day with a smile. Oh, and a trip to the refrig. Hmmm, is it too late to mix up a coupl'a deviled eggs?
Posted by: Charlotte | July 13, 2009 at 10:10 PM
mmmm am i sensing some clucky feelings creeping in???? kids are so sweet and they are attracted to sweet people.
love those mountains
mmwwaahhh
Posted by: icantsew | July 14, 2009 at 03:53 AM
Ooo, deviled eggs, Francis Ford Coppola's wine, sweet encounters with angels & drinks with umbrellas - my favorites!
Posted by: Melissa! | July 14, 2009 at 06:05 AM
Happy anniversary to mom and dad. BTW love Mom's handbag! Thanks for the recipe, yum! Get ready, I'll send a little coolness your way. It has been mid-seventies by day but too cool at night low 50's and it's going to dip into the forties this week. Mother nature forgot what month it is here in Michigan. I would remind her but I don't want to make her mad, winter comes soon enough around here. Cheers!
Posted by: junie | July 14, 2009 at 07:03 AM
Fabulous of you to give the recipe and great photos of the greatest simplicities, good food, fresh water, etc. Blessings.
Posted by: amy faldet | July 14, 2009 at 07:47 AM
Love the deviled egg receipe. I will try that one for sure. I must say you have the most amazing posts. You are very talented and creative. I enjoy reading your posts
Posted by: Momentsinaneye | July 14, 2009 at 08:13 AM
Thank you for that charming recipe, now I just need to get a food mixer.
I adore this post and the pizza looks scrumptious.... au revoir.
Posted by: Clarity | July 14, 2009 at 08:45 AM
I haven't had deviled eggs in years....they look quite delish! Thanks for sharing your recipe!
Happy Anniversary to your wonderful parents....sometimes the least likely place to celebrate turns out to be the most fun! You can see with that snippet of your Mom she's one cool gal...look at that bag!
Hope you're finding ways to stay cool...I couldn't take that heat for even 5 minutes!
XOXOXO
Posted by: Lisa Swifka | July 14, 2009 at 08:47 AM
Thanks V for the funny video, made me smile, so sad Had to put my best friend Coco my beautiful siamese to sleep yesterday, now she is a angel kitty
Karey
Posted by: Kaerie Faerie | July 14, 2009 at 08:59 AM
Actually, your brother gave your parents that bottle of wine... ;)
Posted by: Bobbypin Bandit | July 14, 2009 at 03:43 PM
Oh Thankkie for the eggie recipe!
The picture of the mountains just took my breath away.......*sigh*
Love,
LuLu~*xoxo
Posted by: LuLu | July 14, 2009 at 06:50 PM
fun pics, especially the bottle of wine coming out of the bag!
Posted by: Danielle-cococricketsmama | July 14, 2009 at 08:32 PM
Francis Coppola wine! Oh my goodness.... I love that...have Malbec on the kitchen counter right now.
Posted by: Linda Richter | July 16, 2009 at 10:01 AM
Oh that punch looks marvelous and garlic & sweet onion (of course it had to be sweet since YOU were making it ;-) I always add the paprika but olives on top too. Now I must try the garlic as I like garlic in EVERYTHING! Thanks for sharing V! Your Mombie does sound wonderful too...love that she put her wine in her purse 'just in case,' tee hee. And the bugs I know appreciate you!
Jamie :)
Posted by: AForestFrolic | July 16, 2009 at 12:55 PM
Awww :)
I loved the Wedding Anniversary celebrations - unconventional, I thought, but I'm sure you had a wonderful time.
God, that mountain photo is superb, no wonder you like driving home. I especially like being driven home at night but I'd like it even more if I got to see those mountains.
Must try deviled eggs, they go with my nickname.
So...those bachelors that live around you are they nice people? Because I could really live over there...
Posted by: devil mood | July 16, 2009 at 04:02 PM
Hah...I get so caught up in looking at your photos I forget to read! I hate cooking but these pics made it look tolerable!
Posted by: Terisa | July 16, 2009 at 10:06 PM
Oh gosh! I *love* deviled eggs and egg salad sandwiches. No one - none of the deli's - in my area make them. It's so weird. I could get them everywhere in Florida but not Texas. I'm going to use your recipe and make them this weekend. Take them in a wicker-picnic basket to the Monty Python Festival...bit of egg zaniness would be appropriate I believe?
BACHELOR COWBOYS that own HORSES?
*Oooh* - yes, please. I like.
Posted by: Misha/DawaiOser | July 21, 2009 at 10:15 AM