# Tossing Around > Blog ## Posts - [What To Expect in London in December](https://tossingaround.com/what-to-expect-in-london-in-december/): We traveled to London in December, even though it wasn’t part of our original plan. It turned out to be the only time my husband and I could take a vacation together. Typically, I avoid traveling during the Christmas holiday, but we decided to go this time since we had no other options. Our biggest […] - [Why Yosemite National Park Should Be on Every Family Bucket List](https://tossingaround.com/why-yosemite-national-park-should-be-on-every-family-bucket-list/): As summer approaches, I keep thinking about our last trip to Yosemite. It was one of the best experiences we had as a family, and it was so good that I promised to return with my whole family. Unfortunately, one of my kids couldn’t go on this last trip, but this trip was so impressive […] - [Why Lake Tahoe Is Always a Good Idea](https://tossingaround.com/why-lake-tahoe-is-always-a-good-idea/): My husband and I have visited Lake Tahoe many times. It has been our mountain getaway since living in the San Francisco Bay Area, both before and after we had kids. I must say that a lot has changed since our first visit. Back then, it was less crowded, much less expensive, and less glamorous. […] - [Embracing the Charms of Vancouver: A Journey of Hospitality and Natural Beauty](https://tossingaround.com/embracing-the-charms-of-vancouver-a-journey-of-hospitality-and-natural-beauty/): We had postponed our trip to Vancouver so often and for so many reasons. I finally told my husband we would be going no matter what. We went. Vancouver's stunning beauty captivates visitors, and the warmth of its residents adds to its charm. We were pleasantly surprised by the friendliness of Canadians; every time we […] - [Holiday Fun in Every Bite: Apple Pie Cookies Recipe to Keep Kids Busy!](https://tossingaround.com/holiday-fun-in-every-bite-apple-pie-cookies-recipe-to-keep-kids-busy/): Are you looking for something to keep your kids busy while cooking your holiday meal? The apple pie cookies will do it! This recipe is great for toddlers and up. It will keep them creating, and they will be able to enjoy their own work. Quantity: 12 cookies Ingredients: All you need is a couple […] - [Uncomplicated Thanksgiving Menu](https://tossingaround.com/uncomplicated-thanksgiving-menu/): Thanksgiving is approaching, and having a menu before this gathering is a good idea! Here's a traditional Thanksgiving menu to get you started: Appetizers: Main Course: Breads: Desserts: Beverages: Don’t forget to take your guests’ dietary restrictions and preferences into account. Happy Thanksgiving, everyone! Mr. Fred - [How I Won First Place with My Marble Rye Bread Recipe](https://tossingaround.com/how-i-won-first-place-with-my-marble-rye-bread-recipe/): For the past five years, I have been submitting my favorite recipes to the County Fair with the simple goal of having my recipes and cooking skills validated by an independent judge. As someone who has been cooking throughout my life, I have often heard that my food was delicious and well prepared and that […] - [Pledge to Save Our Oceans: Keep Beaches Plastic-Free!](https://tossingaround.com/pledge-to-save-our-oceans-keep-beaches-plastic-free/): I feel blessed that I was born and raised in an oceanfront city in Brazil. While many people have never seen an ocean, I could wake up every morning to see a beautiful sunrise, walk on the beach and swim in the warm water of the Atlantic Ocean. Last December, I went to Brazil and, […] - [Raspberry Lemonade](https://tossingaround.com/raspberry-lemonade-is-a-tasty-and-refreshing-twist-on-traditional-lemonade-adding-raspberries-to-your-lemonade-creates-a-deliciously-fruity-flavor-that-is-perfect-for-hot-summer-daysaspberry-lemonad/): Raspberry lemonade is a tasty and refreshing twist on traditional lemonade. Adding raspberries to your lemonade creates a deliciously fruity flavor that is perfect for hot summer days! Here I use lovey, full fresh berries, but the result of using older/tired fruit often imparts a more intense experience. So I invite you to over-buy on […] - [Easy Air Fryer Chicken Wings - Buffalo Style](https://tossingaround.com/easy-air-fryer-chicken-wings-buffalo-style/): Wings are some of the most popular snack/appetizer choices. Even if it is not a game day, they are always a hit with party guests. They are also some of the easiest nibbles to make. I bought frozen wings in a 2.5-pound bag. ½ of the bag fits appropriately into my air fryer; therefore, I […] - [BROCCOLI SOUP](https://tossingaround.com/broccoli-soup/): Yes, this IS my low-calorie version. SERVES: 8-10 TIME: 15 min prep, 45 minutes cook INGREDIENTS: 3 pounds broccoli ½ small onion diced 1 Tbsp. Chopped garlic 2 Tbsp. Chicken bouillon 2Tbsp Corn Starch 1 cup milk ½ Stick butter/margarine Cheese or yogurt/crema for garnish INSTRUCTIONS: In a stock pot, sizzle the onion and garlic […] - [Easy Mini Quiche](https://tossingaround.com/easy-mini-quiche/): You can easily adapt this recipe to whatever you have, making it ridiculously simple to prepare. The only must-haves are pie crust (store-bought is fine), eggs, and milk/cream. I also used onion, bacon, spinach, and mushrooms to make my version of Quiche Lorraine. Oh, and cheese! A melty Havarti or Fontina is most commonly found […] - [Homemade Lemon Tart](https://tossingaround.com/homemade-lemon-tart/): This simple dessert covers all the bases. Sweet, tangy, crisp, and creamy, not to mention the eye appeal. The lemon curd is cooked on your stovetop with fresh ingredients. Pastry Shell Makes: one tart shell Time: 15 minutes plus resting time in the refrigerator Start making your pastry dough as it must rest for at […] - [The Importance of Traveling Light](https://tossingaround.com/the-importance-of-traveling-light/): Last month my niece came from Brazil to visit us. As we went to pick her up at the airport, one of the things she first mentioned was that she had to buy a backpack in Brazil just before embarking on the plane because her luggage exceeded the allowed weight. Unfortunately, this is a common […] - [Summer Three Bean Salad](https://tossingaround.com/summer-three-bean-salad/): The three bean salad is one of the easiest salads you will ever make. It uses only two fresh ingredients and can be ready to serve in minutes. Still, make it a little ahead of time so it can chill and the flavors can meld. The summer three bean salad is picnic safe for the […] - [Must-Haves for a Visit to Brazil](https://tossingaround.com/must-haves-for-a-visit-to-brazil/): Brazil is a tropical country. (Primarily tropical, but temperate in the South). Therefore, even during the “winter months,” the average temperature is hot compared to the U.S. This is especially true if you visit the North and Northeast of Brazil. However, other regions have different weather and temperature patterns, like the South and Southeast: “The […] - [How To Make Peach Buckle](https://tossingaround.com/how-to-make-peach-buckle/): For those who have never heard the term “buckle” as related to baking, it is a simple, fresh fruit cake. Buckles can exploit any fresh fruit in season; using canned/frozen fruit is not recommended. Traditionally baked in preheated heavy cast iron, the base of this cake will partially separate from the pan because it simply […] - [From Southern California To Las vegas – A Perfect Summer Destination](https://tossingaround.com/from-southern-california-to-las-vegas-a-perfect-summer-destination/): Suppose you are wondering where to go this summer and looking for options for traveling in the US. In that case, I suggest making the California – Vegas combo your summer destination, especially if you live in Southern California! One advantage of living in Southern California is its proximity to Las Vegas. And Vegas is […] - [DRY RUB for BBQ](https://tossingaround.com/dry-rub-for-bbq/): A dry rub for your meat will impart a flavor on the surface that will penetrate deep into the meat. Notice that the type of meat is not specified. Any raw animal protein can be rubbed before cooking/curing. In this case, the rub is for pork ribs. Optimally, the rub is applied the night before […] - [Brazil: Why You Should Visit](https://tossingaround.com/brazil-why-you-should-visit/): Its biodiversity and incredible nature make Brazil one of the world’s most beautiful countries. If you visit Brazil, you will see amazing sunrises and sunsets, an enormous array of water plays, and infinite secluded places to visit. So, if you are tired of the old world and want to see nature at its best and […] - [Make Bread, Save Money!](https://tossingaround.com/make-bread-save-money/): Today food prices are soaring. Everything is up. The word is things will get worse before they get better. Conflict in Ukraine promises a worldwide grain shortage. Stock up on flour stores before prices become ridiculous. Bake the bread you wish to eat and save money! After years of baking bread, I have found that […] - [Is Brazil A Safe Country To Visit?](https://tossingaround.com/is-brazil-a-safe-country-to-visit/): It’s a question I’m asked most frequently about Brazil. Unfortunately, there is no easy answer to this question. Brazil can be safe, and Brazil can be unsafe. However, if you take the proper precautions, you can have a pleasant trip to beautiful Brazil. Despite what many people think, Brazil is not an inherently dangerous place […] - [How to Make Pasta Salad](https://tossingaround.com/how-to-make-pasta-salad/): Easy Summer Favorite Meal! No one wants to spend a hot summer day in a hot kitchen. The only heat generated by this dish comes from cooking the pasta. So quick, so easy, you will be serving this year-round! Ingredients: 12-16 oz. dry multi-colored pasta ¾ cup chopped/sliced Kalamata and/or Manzanilla olives 1 jar of […] - [Best Time to Visit Brazil: Month-by-Month Guide (+ Budget Tips)](https://tossingaround.com/best-time-to-visit-brazil-month-by-month-guide-budget-tips/): Last updated: April 2026 If you’re researching the best time to visit Brazil, you’ve already made an excellent decision. Brazil rewards visitors who plan ahead. The country spans climates, calendars, and crowds in ways that can make or break a budget. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the best months to go, which seasons […] - [Hot CROSS BUNS](https://tossingaround.com/hot-cross-buns/): A traditional food eaten on Good Friday and throughout the Easter Holidays, this slightly sweetened, slightly spiced yeast bread is sure to be a hit. The cross is made by marking directly on the dough or by piping icing across the top after cooling. Serving: 18 Time: 2.5 hours INGREDIENTS: 3-1/2 cups flour ¼-1/2 cups […] - [How to Make Jalapeño Cornbread](https://tossingaround.com/how-to-make-jalapeno-cornbread/): Cornbread predates the discovery of the New World. Although the recipes have evolved and perfected throughout the years, they are still considered a staple food. A minimal ingredient list makes this dish quick and easy while imparting flavors that are/enhance comfort foods. For example, the jalapeno addition imparts a sweetened spice rather than adding “heat.” […] - [How to Make Deviled Eggs](https://tossingaround.com/how-to-make-deviled-eggs/): This dish is a crowd favorite. To punch it up another level, add a tablespoon of relish to the filling mix; sweet or dill pickle as you wish. Or, add a teaspoon of grated onion. Here, I have made the simplified version. Whereas 6 eggs equal a dozen halves, I cook 8 so that any […] - [Valentine's Day Gift Ideas](https://tossingaround.com/valentines-day-gift-ideas/): Valentine’s Day is approaching, and our concern about buying a nice gift for our loved ones comes with the territory. It is a typical situation considering that there is a lot of pressure for gift-giving, and it can intensify if you aren’t sure what to give this person. But it doesn’t need to be this […] - [Tuxedo Brownies](https://tossingaround.com/tuxedo-brownies/): These brownies show off the best of dark chocolate and “white chocolate*” in a fudgy, nutty bite. I make the dark chocolate darker by substituting one ounce of baker’s chocolate with a heaping tablespoon of special dark Dutched cacao. This is the type of cocoa used to make Oreo cookies almost black. Time: 70 minutes. […] - [Noodle Casserole](https://tossingaround.com/noodle-casserole/): The best you can do after a holiday is to continue to create comfort food. This recipe will warm you to your soul. It is superb when made with turkey and also works when you can find a day-old rotisserie chicken in the refrigerated section of your market. It will also work when you are […] - [Places To Go, Things to Do, and Enjoy in California in December](https://tossingaround.com/places-to-go-things-to-do-and-enjoy-california-december/): Visiting California in December is one of the best experiences you can have in your life. This time of year, there are tons of events, places to visit, and decorations scattered everywhere. California is also great because it provides entertainment for all family members! So, if you are still thinking of a place to enjoy […] - [Raspberry Tart](https://tossingaround.com/raspberry-tart/): A raspberry tart is the quintessential French Pastry. One bite provides everything you could wish for from a sweet. All at once, it is creamy sweet, fruity tart, and crispy crunchy with its buttery lightly toasted crust. In truth, you have seen half of this recipe in a previous tart posting. Truth be told, I […] - [Peach Mango Pie](https://tossingaround.com/peach-mango-pie/): This recipe was improvised when I was asked to make a peach pie out of season. I could only get ahold of a few peaches, but the mangoes were plentiful and ripe. The thought of peach-mango iced tea reminded me that this is an excellent combination. I believe you will agree. Some would suggest that […] - [If you are planning a trip to the Northeast of Brazil, there are a few things you should keep in mind](https://tossingaround.com/traveling-to-the-northeast-of-brazil/): The Northeast of Brazil is a stunning region. Rich in natural beauty, fantastic coastline, and unique places. Its long coastline is considered one of the most amazing in Brazil. Swimming, fishing, and fresh seafood cuisine will delight you. Planning a getaway to this region during the long winter in the northern hemisphere should be on […] - [Easy Apple Tart](https://tossingaround.com/easy-apple-tart/): Apples originated in Asia, almonds in Iran, and the tart is as French as it gets. Apple pie is American as. . .well, apple pie. This dish is my take on an apple frangipane tart, combining the sharpness of the apple contrasted with the rich sweetness of my take on an almond frangipane, all held […] - [Simple Solutions for Gift-Giving (And Less Stressful Holidays)](https://tossingaround.com/simple-solutions-for-gift-giving-and-less-stressful-holidays/): As the holiday season approaches, some of us start getting nervous. As beautiful and blessed this time of the year is, it is also, for some people, one of the most demanding and stressful occasions. Mainly because instead of thinking about the real meaning of the Holidays, we worry about gifts, cooking, and entertainment – […] - [Pumpkin Soup](https://tossingaround.com/pumpkin-soup/): Pumpkin soup is just one of many names this comfort food goes by. To be more accurate, try calling it squash soup or squash purée.  Traditionally made with butternut squash, it can also be made out of acorn squash or sugar pie pumpkin. ***Check out the video on Pinterest @brazemshop!*** Serves           6-10 Time              Prep: 30 […] - [Chicken Pot Pie](https://tossingaround.com/chicken-pot-pie/): Many people are intimidated by the thought of making pie. Do not fret. We will show you how to make a savory pie in easy steps with shortcuts to make it even easier. This comfort food dish will have your guests wondering where you got the time. Ingredients: Filling: 1 lb. large diced chicken 1 […] - [Reduce, Reuse, Recycle - Do It the Right Way](https://tossingaround.com/reduce-reuse-recycle-do-it-the-right-way/): With increasingly environmental disasters taking place, we must look at how we relate to products, lifestyles, and products we buy or sell. It’s not an easy task, and it cannot be done only by government order. Our planet is in crisis and would benefit from more help, and we all should get involved. It was long overdue that we learn how to […] - [Apple Pancakes - An Apple Twist on Pancakes](https://tossingaround.com/apple-pancakes-an-apple-twist-on-pancakes/): An apple pancake is much like a deep-fried Oreo Cookie, except the inside is filled with natural sugars, fiber, and vitamins. The recipe is as easy as that: peel, core, slice crisp apples, dip in pancake batter, and fry as you would a pancake. Tart apples such as a Granny Smith make a good contrast […] - [How To Make Meat Tacos Step By Step - Including How To Prepare Taco Meat](https://tossingaround.com/how-to-make-meat-tacos-step-by-step-including-how-to-prepare-taco-meat/): Undeniably, the best street tacos are found in Southern California, unless of course, you find yourself in the right place in Mexico. The best street shrimp taco I have found is the “Gobernador” from Mariscos El Prieto in Chula Vista, California. Loaded with freshly grilled shrimp and loaded with salsa and slaw. This ‘restaurant’ is […] - [Simple Ways of Enjoying Summer and Making it Awesome](https://tossingaround.com/simple-ways-of-enjoying-summer-and-making-it-awesome/): Summer is here and everywhere we look the atmosphere feels different. People are happy to be outdoors and enjoy the sunny days. It’s like we must compensate for everything we missed in 2020 – the places we could not visit, the restaurants we could not enjoy, and the friends we were not allowed to see. […] - [Almond Biscotti](https://tossingaround.com/almond-biscotti/): Biscotti is an aromatic Italian cookie meant for dunking because it is so hard. In Italian BIS (twice) COTTI (cooked) describes how that happens. Time: ~2 hours Yield: ~24 cookies Ingredients: 2 c. AP Flour ¾ c. Packed brown sugar ¾ c. Almond meal ½ c. Granulated sugar ½ tsp. Salt 1 Tbsp. Baking powder […] - [Electronic Essentials for Your Next International Trip](https://tossingaround.com/electronic-essentials-for-your-next-international-trip/): Traveling internationally can be challenging, especially if it is your first time going to another country. Not only do you need to think about all the necessary documentation, but you also want to do some research in advance about the things that some inexperienced travelers will take for granted.  For instance, as you probably know, […] - [Zucchini Carrot Cake](https://tossingaround.com/zucchini-carrot-cake/): This recipe is right on time for the 4th of July and zucchini is in season. Its rich dark color and buttery spice flavor will delight all guests. Dress it with cream cheese frosting, toast, and spread plain cream cheese, or go red, white, and blue with confectioners’ sugar and berries. Serves: 12 / 2 […] - [Strawberry Shortcake - Homemade Recipe!](https://tossingaround.com/strawberry-shortcake-homemade-recipe/): Memorial Day weekend is the unofficial beginning of summer. It is also the height of the strawberry season. Therefore, Strawberry Shortcake is the quintessential dessert of the day. A little extra effort will pay huge dividends in the form of deliciousness and admiration from your guests. The three main components of a simple shortcake biscuit, […] - [The Brazil I know](https://tossingaround.com/the-brazil-i-know/): When I first arrived in San Francisco, I thought that most Americans knew a lot about Brazil and its beautiful places to go, lifestyle, and friendly people. Unfortunately, I was surprised to learn that many people had almost no knowledge or inaccurate knowledge of the largest South American country.  Of course, several things have changed […] - [The Best Time to Exercise?](https://tossingaround.com/the-best-time-to-exercise/): One of the problems with exercising is that we set our brains to do it at some specific place or hour.  I have constantly challenged these assumptions. My life, routine, and schedule are not like someone else’s. So, why should I try to fit into a lifestyle or a plan that is not mine? The […] ## Pages - [Shop](https://tossingaround.com/shop/): Brazem.com is an online business based in California. Brazem sells travel accessories and other products designed to make life on the move much easier and more enjoyable. Let’s connect @brazemshop Travel Accessories We offer travel accessories and other products designed to make life on the move much easier and more enjoyable. Tech For Travel We offer several […] - [Comment Policy](https://tossingaround.com/comment-policy/): Welcome to Tossing Around. It is a pleasure to know that you decided to stop by and give us a chance.  It was a difficult decision to make, but as a small business with many responsibilities, we decided that, at this moment, we will not allow comments on this blog. Please feel free to reach […] - [Blog](https://tossingaround.com/blog/) - [Privacy Policy](https://tossingaround.com/privacy-policy/): Who we are Our website address is https://tossingaround.com. Tossing Around is a blog. A lifestyle blog. This blog also serves as an informational blog to our eCommerce site: Brazem.com. This website is operated by Brazem.com. Throughout the site, the terms “we”, “us” and “our” refer to Brazem.com. Brazem.com offers this website, including all information, tools […] - [Contact](https://tossingaround.com/contact/): We’re Ready, Let’s Talk. Contact Info AddressCalifornia, 92688 -USA Email Usblog@brazem.com - [About](https://tossingaround.com/about/): Tossing Around is the official lifestyle blog of https://brazem.com/ website. We hope this blog will inform, inspire, or simply delight you! This is a lifestyle blog highlighting our knowledge and inspiring ways to live.  We talk about issues we believe in and learn. Unpretentious, encouraging, and bold. We love to write about many things, including […] - [Home](https://tossingaround.com/home/): From our Posts Lifestyle We love to write about many things including our interest in an outdoor lifestyle. Therefore, most of the topics we will cover here include our way of enjoying everyday life! Mr. Fred Eats Many people are intimidated by the thought of making pie. Do not fret. We will show you how […] ## Optional - [Agent (MCP protocol)](websites-agents.hostinger.com/tossingaround.com/mcp) [comment]: # (Generated by Hostinger Tools Plugin)