Homemade Macaroni and Cheese with Broccoli and Cauliflower

This is one of our all-time favorite meals.  At least for me and the kids.  Andy isn't a big fan of this meal unless meat is the main dish, and these are the side dishes. ;) So sometimes, we have it with grilled fish or chicken.

Homemade Macaroni and Cheese
1 lb macaroni noodles or small shells (a favorite with the kids)
2-3 cups cheeses (we like Tillamook Vintage White Cheddar mixed with their Sharp Cheddar)
1/2 cup butter
3/4 cup flour
3 cups milk
salt and pepper

Cook noodles according to package directions. 
Meanwhile, heat butter over medium low heat until melted.  Add flour and 1 tsp salt, stirring with whisk until smooth. Gradually add milk, stirring until smooth.  Return to heat and stir (mostly constantly) until thickened.  Remove from heat and stir in cheese until melted.  Pour over cooked noodles; stir to coat.  Add salt and pepper to taste.  I like Lawry's seasoned pepper. Serve hot with broccoli and cauliflower on the side.

Broccoli and Cauliflower
Cut desired amount of veggies into bite-sized pieces.  Place cauliflower on bottom of saucepan.  Fill with about an inch of water.  Cover and heat to boiling. Turn heat down to medium.  Boil 2 minutes.  Add broccoli pieces and cover.  Continue to cook, about 4 minutes, until broccoli and cauliflower are desired doneness.  Toss with a little olive oil and salt and pepper and garlic powder. 

Layered Strawberry Jello

My kids love this Jello. . .tonight I turned the raspberries into stripes, and had a blueberries section to make an American flag.  Happy Independence Day!

2 cups boiling water

1 small package strawberry jello

1 small package raspberry jello

1 16 oz container frozen sweetened strawberries

1 12 oz container cool whip

fresh raspberries

toasted pecans, optional

Dissolve jello in boiling water. Combine in blender with frozen strawberries. Blend thoroughly. Pour into 9x13 dish. Refrigerate until set (it will form two layers). Spread cool whip over jello and decorate with fresh raspberries. Sprinkle with pecans if desired.