originally posted in 2010.













I just got back from a pumpkin patch field trip with sixty kindergarteners. In the rain. I wish I could say that I planned ahead and plugged something in so I could happily (and maybe a bit smugly?) report that, "we came home to a hearty bowl full of wholesome goodness that warmed us right up."

oh how I wish I could say that.

But I can't. We came home instead to soggy tuna and rice cakes.

But you? You can totally plan ahead. These are fantastic fall slow cooker recipes that will keep your tummies full, your house warm and cozy, your family happy, and your budget in check.

Beverages

(although "Holiday" is in the title, I've been making this a lot. Wednesdays can totally be the new Holiday.)

(yummers)

(I don't actually like this so much, but my mother-in-law loves it, and so do her friends.)

Appetizers

(just made this again on Saturday, and have been requested to make it on Thursday for my friend Jennifer's jewelry party. Oh! anyone want to buy jewelry? I think there might be an online form.)

(one of the very first things I made during my challenge)

(AKA Mommy Crack)

(liquid pizza)

Main Courses

(the kids LOVE this)

(from

. She is wonderful.)

(because you need more liquid pizza)

(from

)

(copy cat(ish) from the Olive Garden. We eat this monthly.)

(red wine for purple, white wine for not-purple)

(from

)

(I get the nicest thank you notes about this one)

(doesn't taste like coffee. I promise.)

(I make this for guests. Often.)

(from

)

(lots of ingredients, but totally worth it)

(from

)

(a favorite with kids)

(my little buddy Austin's review is priceless on this one)

(mmm. peanut butter.)

Sausage Vegetable Medley (we eat this an awful lot. super easy.)

Desserts

(I was crazily ecstatic at how this turned out. I think the neighbors could hear my squealing)

(exactly what it sounds like!)

(the people in the audience at GMA liked this)

(I had canned peaches in the house)

(fondue-y)

(use a small slow cooker for this, or your middle won't set)

(I can't believe I ate the whole thing)

(the kids can do this alone. while I nap. It's a good thing.)

(great surprise as an after school snack)

(So. Much. Fun.)













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Stefania, of City Mama