Grammy's Creamy Cheesecake

Traditions are a pretty cool thing. Traditions are something special that unites a group of people and gives them a special memory to share. For example, as I type this, I'm watching the Duke v. OSU basketball game. While this specific game has no special significance (except that I want to be able to brag to all my Buckeye friends that we beat them!), watching Duke basketball has been something that I grew up doing and love sharing with fellow Dukies. My dad, who stands at 6 foot 7 inches and was a pretty awesome basketball player himself, taught me all I know about basketball and Duke sports. As a treat growing up, he would take me to some of the Duke women's basketball games. I thought I was the coolest kid going to Cameron Indoor Stadium, staying out late on a school night, and cheering for the Blue Devils with my dad. Memories and traditions, they are a great thing.

Chocolate Pecan Pie

Y'all know how I like finding new, fun twists on classic recipes? Well this is one more example for you. If you love pecan pie, you have got to try this chocolate version.

Healthy Spinach and Artichoke Casserole

Know anyone who doesn't like vegetables? I'm betting that you do. And I'm also willing to bet that they are over the age of 5. I was never a huge fan of vegetables growing up, but I've learned that if they are prepared correctly and have enough seasoning and other flavorful ingredients mixed with them, vegetables can actually be pretty tasty (except peas...I despise peas). But I know a lot of people who refuse to even look in the direction of a vegetable. However, this casserole will change any picky eater's mind. In fact, I've seen first hand a vegetable hater love this dish (Hi Uncle Kenny!).

Thanksgiving Recap

I hope all of you had a wonderful and safe Thanksgiving! I was fortunate enough to spend my Thanksgiving holiday in North Carolina with my parents, grandparents, and my uncle and his family. Because I live in the Washington, D.C. area and don't get to see my family all of the time, I feel lucky when I get an extended amount of time with them. This Thanksgiving couldn't have been better-a great time spent with amazing people all while eating wayyy too much scrumptious food. To give you a little sneak peak of my holiday at home, here are some pictures from my Thanksgiving.

{Mom's Thanksgiving table}