What an amazing spontaneous visit I made the other night to Buffalo Wild Wings. Even though I only ordered the pretzel appetizer and a Diet coke, I didn't enjoy the treat. So much for not feeling guilty.

Ladies and gentlemen, time to dust off those small appliances in the back of your kitchen cabinet, We're around the corner from crock pot season! Does anyone else hear their crock pot calling them by name?
So many savory and inexpensive meals can be served from a crock pot. Not only does the crock pot create delicious meals, it also transforms your house into a home by wafting pleasant aromas from the stove.

The combinations are endless! Some tips I've learned from trial and error:

Pay attention to the recipe and what size crock is recommended. The cooking times may vary depending on the size and relative age of your crock.

Allow meat to cook through, invest in a meat thermometer, you'll save yourself lots of heartbreak.
Be careful when adding grain and

vegetables. If the timing is off, you might overcook what was already in the crock. Also, you don't want under cooked rice or over cooked vegetables.

Don't get crazy about saving a mistake either. I've done this and its not worth it. Don't take your chances serving something you are unsure of.