Snowy Cooking

Well it looks like it really happened, snow for the first time this season in Seattle. I am not ok with this! I moved to Seattle in the hopes to get away from my snowy childhood of Salt Lake City. For the past few years we have had snow. Seriously Seattle?! I am ok with rain, sleet, and gray days. But not snow!  I now know that embracing the snow is the best thing. I am big fan of staying home and cooking, crafting and all around hanging out by the fire- by all means playing games. Don't get me wrong I am not afraid of driving in the snow-  I am afraid of the other drivers, and the hills. Yes the hills in the snow are what kills me. Growing up in Salt Lake we didn't have that many hills. Not to mention all the snow plows, and salt hence the name. So today I will stay home. I have found a few things that look like fun. I am going to show some Link Love, just perfect for the blustery days of winter.
I will start with the Basics:
This is just funny but Martha does it again:
How to Build a Fire! Seriously? I bet it is the most amazing fire ever- right?

Now on the to good stuff- DRINKS!!
Block Island Fog from Country Living- I have new heard of this drink but I looks interesting for the coffee drinkers out there. Give it a try and let me know!
Soothing Ginger Tea From Martha-  This drink has many advantages. Ginger is really good for you and is low fat.
Mulled Cider with Red Wine - From Martha- This will make the house smell Awesome!
Honey Bourbon Toddy- From Bon Appetit- I had a Chef make me drink this when I told him my throat was sore and it was the beginning of a busy night!
Hot Buttered Rum- from Single Minded Women- I didn't know this But National Hot Buttered Rum Day is January 17th! So get ready it's right around the corner.
The Best Hot Chocolate! - from Food Network- Saved this one for last- I LOVE hot chocolate, I didn't care much for skiing but when we got to go the lodge and have Ho Cho- I was happy. And if you make the marshmallows for the top, that's a special treat.

Cooking- on cold days you need something to warm your core! And if playing in the snow is for you then something to stick to your bones!
Quinoa winter squash & carrot stew -  from Bon Appetit this  looks yummy and to add it is Vegan and Gluten Free. If you haven't had Quinoa it's a must. Look for it in the bulk section of the store, it cooks like rice.
Mushroom and Potato Stew - From Bon Appetit- this one will come together rather fast.
Chicken Pot Pie- Thanks Emeril! Pot pie is great as a easy casserole you can toss in the oven.
Sausage Lasagna- From the Food Network- Delish! I think we are having that tonight!

Desserts and Breads! My favorite is making the house smell like brownies and homemade bread!
Monkey Bread! From Smitten Kitchen- let me just first say I LOVE her blog and you should check it out sometime http://smittenkitchen.com/  I wish I could blog like her- maybe one day!
Brownies- from Allrecipes- gooey brownies are the best when they are hot.
Chocolate Chip cookies from Smitten Kitchen again! But like I said before Deb is amazing! I am a big fan of  M & M's instead of chocolate chips. I'm not really sure why.

I think I got enough here to get anyone started, I like doing posts that have many links as to add some variety. Not everyone likes the same stuff.