Stepping Out

Making Mother's Day memories

Prepare a special treat for Mom

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Mother’s Day is a lovely way to pay tribute to moms and other women who have nurtured us, taught us and influenced our lives. If you’re looking for a special way to say thank you and give her a wonderful memory, try some of these ideas.
Make Her a Favor Book. Put together a coupon book of favors that the kids will do for her. Write things like “I will help with the dishes,” “Good for one long cuddle,” and “Mom picks the movie” on index cards or slips of pretty paper and staple them together to make a booklet.

Say It With Flowers. In Victorian times, bouquet flowers were chosen very carefully because each flower had a special meaning. Give mom a bouquet that tells her how you feel. Some examples:
* White carnations symbolize the purity and strength of motherhood. Pink ones mean gratitude, and red ones express deep love and affection.
* Red roses are for deep love; pink for admiration, grace, and elegance.

* Hibiscuses are for delicate beauty. Get some to show her that she’s beautiful inside and out.
Host a Special Brunch. Gather friends and family to celebrate motherhood at a leisurely brunch. Take plenty of photographs and pass around a memory book for guests to write down words of thanks and encouragement.
Set up a buffet that includes Crustless Broccoli and Cheddar Mini Quiches (rceipe follows). These bite-sized beauties can be made ahead of time and frozen – they’re a snap to reheat.
There are dozens of ways you can celebrate Moms and the women in your life – get creative and give her a Mother’s Day she'll never forget.

Crustless Broccoli and Cheddar Mini Quiches

1 can (12 fluid ounces) Evaporated Lowfat 2% Milk
3 large eggs, beaten
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 cups (8 ounces) shredded mild or sharp cheddar cheese
2 cups chopped, frozen broccoli, thawed and drained
1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper

1. Preheat oven to 350F. Grease and lightly flour twelve 2 1/2-inch muffin cups.
2. Whisk evaporated milk, eggs, flour, salt, and black pepper in medium bowl until blended. Stir in cheese, broccoli and bell pepper. Spoon 1/4 to 1/3 cup of mixture into each prepared muffin cup, filling almost to rim. Stir mixture frequently to evenly distribute ingredients.
3. Bake for 23 to 28 minutes or until knife inserted near centers comes out clean and tops are lightly browned. Cool in pans for 15 minutes. Run knife or small, flat spatula around inside edges of muffin cups. Carefully remove quiches. Makes 12 servings.
Note: Number of quiches will depend on the size of muffin cups. Bake time may need some adjusting.

Tips:
Quiches can be made ahead and frozen. To reheat, place on baking sheet and bake in preheated 325F oven for 25 to 30 minutes or, place 2 to 4 quiches on microwave-safe plate and microwave on Medium High (70%) power for 2 1/2 to 5 minutes or until hot.