Dana Marie's Country Living Blog

Back in November of 2020, my family had an unusual Thanksgiving. Here's what I wrote: "Well, Thanksgiving got canceled at my house today. I am so sad, but it is in the best interest for all of us. My mom is 75, and we need to do what is best for her health with the risk of covid this year. She and I will be together on Thanksgiving, but the rest of our family won't be coming. This holiday season is going to be so different for many of us. Either way, I will make a great Thanksgiving meal with all the trimmings. I am not going to let covid ruin my fun day of baking and cooking. What I have decided to do is make some extra dishes and desserts to deliver to my family. Nothing brings me more joy than to cook for family and friends! One disappointing thing is that I bought a set of vintage china and some beautiful glasses from Italy for the Thanksgiving table. I was so excited to be able to use them. I still am, but it is not as much fun without everyone there. I will enjoy the...

Look what I did! One has ham filling, the other has chicken filling. I made them up as I went. Oh so good! When it comes out of the oven, it only has to cool for five minutes, then dig in! Serve with a nice salad, and you've got a wonderful meal. ~ Dana  Ham and Potato Bake Ingredients 2 cups cubed potatoes olive oil as needed for sautéeing 1 cup chopped tricolor or regular carrots 2 cups sliced mushrooms 1 leek sliced thinly 2 cups cubed ham 3 tablespoons butter 3-4 tablespoons flour 1/2 cup whole milk 1/2 cup chicken broth 4 slices white American cheese     or any good white melting cheese spices to taste:     garlic powder     onion powder     salt & pepper 1 sheet puff pastry 1 egg for egg wash Cooking the ham & potato filling  Instructions 1 . Start by preparing the vegetables. In a hot skillet with olive oil, sauté the cubed potatoes and carrots until they have a nice brown color on all sides. Turn the heat down to medium o...