PhoenixTheBloggingMama

Homemade Macaroni and Cheese with Bacon

2011-07-01T21:48:00.008-05:00

Not the best picture, but I had to add it cause it looks like a heart!!

Tonight I decided to make a kick ass, home cooked meal for my family!! With Jeremy being in the hospital almost this entire month things have been well difficult as far as meal time is concerned. Spending so much time at the hospital everyday, along with the other tasks that need to get done have left very little time for cooking..

As you all know I LOVE to cook! So this past month has sucked! I hate giving my kids lunchables or even worse microwave meals, but you know sometimes in order to maintain sanity one must do what they can. Plus since my kiddos almost never get those things, I figure it will all even itself out! lol :)

This recipe is AWESOME!! All of us loved it and that almost never happens!! It has definitely made into our recipe book! We served it with steak and broccoli with cheese. :)

Ingredients:
Salt and Pepper to taste
1 pound elbow macaroni
4 cups milk
2 or 3 sprigs thyme
4 cloves garlic, smashed and divided
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
5 1/2 cups shredded sharp white Cheddar
Freshly ground black pepper
4 slices bacon, cut crosswise into thin strips
1 large onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, smashed
Leaves from 1/4 bunch fresh Thyme

Directions:
1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the macaroni and cook for 8 to 9 minutes, until Al Dente. Drain.

2. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. In a small saucepan heat the milk with the thyme sprigs and 2 garlic cloves. Melt the butter in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, to keep lumps from forming. Strain the solids out of the milk and whisk it into the butter and flour mixture. Continue to whisk vigorously, and cook until the mixture is nice and smooth.

3. Stir in the 4 cups of the cheese and continue to cook and stir to melt the cheese. Season with salt and pepper. Add the cooked macaroni and fold it in to coat the macaroni with the cheese mixture. Scrape into a 3-quart baking dish and sprinkle with the remaining 1 1/2 cups cheese. Bake for 30 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.

4. While that bakes, heat a saute pan. Add the bacon, render the fat and cook until crispy. Add onion, garlic and thyme leaves and cook for about 5 minutes to soften the onion. Season with salt and pepper. To serve, scatter the bacon mixture over the mac and cheese. Use a big spoon to scoop out servings, making sure you get some of the smoking bacon mixture on each spoonful.

She is cured!!

2011-06-12T11:38:00.007-05:00

Spunky all covered in Mayo with her head wrapped in a garbage bag. lol This was the second time around and she was not very happy about it!

After two treatments of Rid and two nights of being slathered in Mayo (the full fat kind) for 5 hrs each time, we have gotten rid of the lice!! WOOHOO! I have to tell you that this has been huge PITA and I hope to never have to do it again! Although since Spunky is in Elementary school for another two years, I am sure it is bound to pop up again.

If and when it does I can honestly say that Mayo will be my first course of action for several reasons. One being the cost, which for us was none since we always have a big jar in the fridge! Plus it really aided in removing the nits etc from her hair cause it helped them slip right out. I will however follow up with a Rid treatment like I did this time because it ensures that they have all been killed even the eggs.

Moving, lice and other creepy crawlies that go bump in the night

2011-06-08T15:01:00.008-05:00

This week has been a doozy to say the least!!! Monday we moved into our new "place" and we all know how much chaos moving entails, especially when kids are involved! It was pretty uneventful and we are very happy to be back together as a family!! More to come about that later. I have a whole post ready and waiting..

On to the lice, while I was parting Aubrey's hair to put it up Monday morning I realized that she had a rip roaring case of lice.... Now she had been scratching her head quite a bit for about a week & a half and I honestly thought she was having a case of dry scalp which happens to her sometimes.

I had been checking her head several times throughout the past few weeks and have not seen any evidence of lice until Monday... When I realized what was happening I about freaked out all the while my skin crawled!! We have only had lice one other time WAY back in 2008 so it had been awhile.

I searched through the internet and of course asked my friends on Facebook what they have done to get rid of these nasty little pests!! After reading all the comments etc I decided that we would start with Rid and then move on to Mayo since that seemed to be the best way of treating it. Monday night we treated everyone (even the bald guys) with Rid and it got rid of them for all of us, but poor little Aubrey. They must really like her nice, clean, not oily hair!

Sooooooo last night I doused her head with Mayo, wrapped it in saran wrap and made her stay that way until 10pm (5hrs later), she was NOT a happy camper! lol When she gets home here in a few and before we go visit Jeremy at the hospital. I will go through her hair once again and I am crossing my fingers this did the trick!!!

Oh and we washed and vacuumed the crud out of everything including the car so hopefully we have killed these nasty creepy crawly little creatures!!

Our love story

2011-06-01T08:30:00.010-05:00

While messing around on Twitter the other day I came across a neat idea posted by Tina at Life Without Pink called Project Marriage and immediately knew I had to join! You should join in too it's gonna be tons of fun you don't wanna miss!

(The high school gang way back in 2000 at my mom's wedding!)

So here is our story! :) I have been married once in this short life and "in love" several times, but I have only had one true love. I met Jeremy my Freshman year in high school and instantly knew this was someone that would be important in my life. We dated for awhile and he was "the one" who turned me from a girl to woman, if you know what I mean. So of course from that moment on he has held a special place in my heart.

(Us in 2005)

We remained friends throughout high school even though we moved forward with different romantic relationships, but always held the same social circles. We had a close group of friends that all hung out on a consistent basis so remained close through the years. As we grew into adults and I moved to New Mexico for several years and we lost touch, but every time I came back to Austin we would visit for at least a little while. It was easy to see that the chemistry never left us and during these visits it became harder and harder to ignore.

(This past September)

I watched him go through many relationships and wondered if he would ever find the right person. I had no idea at the time that person would be me. We had know each other and been such good friends for so long it was not something that crossed my mind. I had not even considered him as an option. He of course had his own issues medical etc as did I and things never did seem to fall into place.

(New Year 2010)

When I came back from New Mexico in 2004 as a free woman we met back up as friends and it was as if we had never parted. Things were complicated and difficult for both of us to say the least, but we made it work and I am so happy that we did! We love our blended family even with the trials and tribulations it comes with we would not trade it for anything!

I love him with all my heart, he is my soul mate, my one and only!!!

(and now)

My best hopes and wishes for you, my son

2011-05-31T11:43:00.012-05:00

As I sat watching them get lined up and ready to receive their awards, a swelling of emotion came from the depths of my soul. I watched as my oldest child crossed that bridge between boyhood and teenagerdom. Ready to begin and accept the challenges that are laid out before him. As I sat there watching I began to wonder if I had successfully prepared him for this journey.

Would he be able to overcome the challenges presented to him? Would he know right from wrong? And even if he did, would he pick the right path and make the right choices? I wondered if I've done my job, as his mother, well enough (up to this point) to help him become a successful teenager? Will he be able to deal with the peer pressure the right way, or would he give in as I so often did at that age? And how will I handle it, if he does?

I know with all my being that I have done my best, I have presented him with all the tools that I know and more to turn himself into the man that he wishes to become. I can only hope that I have helped him feel comfortable enough to speak with me about anything, to come to me for anything. To know that above all he is loved and that these times are for learning and that we as his family will always be there for him no matter what! To teach, listen and learn from one another.

Just remember that not all is black and white. Choices lead us into places we never imagined, but love is constant!

Friday Fill-Ins

2011-04-01T12:42:00.003-05:00

Hi all, another week is almost over and it is time for yet another weekly installment of Friday Fill-Ins! Janet asks the questions and my answers are underlined.

1. I can't believe that school is almost out... I am NOT ready for summer!

2. Wishing for a wonderful weekend for everyone.

3. How can I get through this next week? I am so incredibly excited! :):)

4. Gingered Orange Mango Chicken with rice and steamed Sugar Snap Peas was the last thing I cooked.

5. Six of one half a dozen of the other.

6. I forgot to send in the girl's applications for camp; no no no!

7.And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to Papa Murphy's pizza and a movie with the family, tomorrow my plans include cleaning out the garage, going to T-man's t-ball game and then we have a little surprise planned for all the kids :) :) and Sunday, I want to just rest!

For more Friday Fill-Ins participants click here!

Five Question Friday

2011-02-25T12:59:00.012-06:00

I stumbled across this meme today while reading one of my favorite mommy blogs, Craftymamaof4. The meme originated at a blog called My Little Life, which if I do say so myself is pretty awesome! I love meme's and answering random questions so of course I had to join right in. :)

Below are the rules of the meme in case you want to join in! :)

"Copy and paste the following questions to your blog post, answer them, then watch for the linky post to appear Friday morning! And most of all, HAVE FUN!!"

1. Can you drive a stick shift?
I originally learned to drive in my dad's little red Mazda which was a standard, but since then I have not driven a stick and have completely forgotten how to do it.

2. What are two foods you just can't eat?
I CANNOT and WILL not eat coleslaw, potato salad or any kind of animal part that is not "normally" consumed by humans.

3. Do you buy Girl Scout Cookies? What is your favorite kind?
I do buy Girl Scout cookies AND I have two girls who sell them as well!! So I am TOTALLY Girl Scout cookied out!! I would say my favorite kind this year was the Peanut Butter Cookie kind.

4. How do you pamper yourself?
Pamper myself? I have four kids are you kidding or serious? lol I pamper myself by locking myself in my room ALONE watching a movie and doing whatever I want without anyone asking me any questions!!

5. What is your nickname and how did you get it?
My nickname is Phoenix and I LOVE it!! It was my handle when I used to play SWG & WOW and it just kinda stuck! :)

Today I believe....

2011-02-04T00:36:00.001-06:00

Day 12-What you believe

Today I believe..
things will get better.

Today I believe..
that my life means something.

Today I believe..
I will cross off yet another item on my list of things that desperately need to be done!!

Today I believe..
that I can and will fix this all!!

Today I believe..
I rule the world...well at least my world!! :)

Fun with Spunky

2011-01-10T18:20:00.015-06:00

I love cooking with my kids, it's a great learning experience and we all (usually) have a really good time. Tonight we had biscuits, gravy, sausage and duros for dinner, so it was a great time to teach Spunky how to make biscuits. She is not always able to stay still long enough to help so it was really nice to be able to spend the time with her on her terms. :)

Teaching her how to roll out the dough.

She had a blast getting all covered in flour, she loves anything that requires getting dirty! lol She also did a really good job cutting them out and then separating them to put them on the baking sheet.Concentrating oh so hard to separate them out!

Now on to the Duros, the kids LOVE these and I know they are not the healthiest being fried and all, but once in a while it's all good! As I always say everything in moderation. I find that if you forbid certain foods that kids will only crave them more. IMO it's better to just serve those things as a "special" treat every once and a while. Most people serve them as a dipper instead of chips, but we like them just the way they are.

Here is what they look like before they are cooked.

Being fried

and here they are after being cooked. Light and crispy! :)

Remember you can click on any of the photos to enlarge.

What did you say?

2011-01-09T00:35:00.000-06:00

Day 11-Favorite TV shows

At the moment TV is the last thing on my mind, but when I am able to watch I like a wide variety of different shows from comedy and drama to crime/mystery.

My new favorite TV show right now would have to be The Big Bang Theory! The funny part is I just started watching it this year. I had no idea what I had been missing the past few years. I still have not been able to catch up on the past few years that I missed, but I am trying. :)

I would have to say my oldest and most watched favorite would be all the CSI's especially the original CSI.

Criminal Minds is another one that I really hate to miss. It's always full of really interesting and crazy things. It really makes you wonder about people...

Mike and Molly would have to be another one of the shows that came out this year that I REALLY enjoy! I really applaud CBS for keeping it real!!

Now when it comes family programming my favorites would be Wipeout and No Ordinary Family (although it's kinda losing my interest).

What are your favorites?

Silly little bugs!

2011-01-06T00:35:00.000-06:00

Spunky and a butterfly she caught over the summer, on one of our trips to Boggy Creek Farms. I love the expression on her face, it's priceless! :)

(Click photo to enlarge)

Day 10-Something you're afraid of

Butterflies..... yes you read that right. I said Butterflies or really any creature be it insect, arachnid etc that swings, flies or comes anywhere near my face!!! It completely freaks me out! Funny thing is I have been struggling with this fear since I was a small child. Most kids have fun playing outside and may come in crying about fire ants(I grew up in Texas) or wasps, but me.. no, I came screaming into the house because there was a Butterfly outside by the swing set.... Pretty sad I know, but I still have issues with them.

The past few summers, I have tried to conquer my fear through photography. I love, I mean LOVE taking pictures! Since we frequent the Zilker Botanical Gardens here in Austin at least 4 times a month in the summer. I have used that opportunity to spend lots of time in the Butterfly garden they have set up. I sit really really still and let them come close up to me and instead of focusing on how close they are to me and how it freaks me out. I try to take a deep breath and focus on getting a really awesome close up shot of one. It has helped a bit, but I still need more practice.

Well I hope you had fun laughing at me, I know I did. lol Thanks for reading and have a great afternoon!! :)

Oldies but goodies

2011-01-02T00:35:00.000-06:00

Day 9-A picture of your friends

(Click photo to enlarge)

This is a picture of Jeremy and I with our nearest and dearest friends since High School. This photo was taken back in 2000 at my mother's wedding. I was pregnant with Samantha and was visiting Austin at the time this was taken. I was really happy to be able to see all the guys, I had not seen them in a few years! :)

Hawaii

2011-01-01T00:35:00.000-06:00

Day 8-A place you've traveled to..

When I was 13 my Grandparents took me to Hawaii. My cousins also got to travel to Hawaii the summer after they turned 13, it was a tradition in our family. I had a blast and got to see some really neat things I would have never gotten to see back in the states plus I got to take my Grandparents to McDonald's for their first time there EVER which I remember thinking was SO cool!

Below are some photos I took while we were there. Sorry about the quality they were taken 21 years ago.... Also remember you can click on any photo to enlarge. :)

When we arrived in Hawaii the volcano Kilauea was erupting and so we were able to see the lava flowing down the streets like in the photo below.

This church was put up on stilts to avoid the lava flow......although I am not sure how that is going to help!
Random picture of a Pineapple plant we saw at the Dole Pineapple farm.

The USS Arizona, we toured the wreckage while we were there.

Our submarine trip! I was soooooo cool, we were able to see all kinds of different types of fish and the Tuna were HUGE!!

The Polynesian Cultural Center, was really pretty neat.

(Click to enlarge any of the photos)

Those good ole picture shows

2010-12-31T00:01:00.007-06:00

Day 7-Favorite Movies

Stripes is by far one of my all time favorite movies!! I love Bill Murray!Pulp Fiction is awesome and must be on this list!As well as American Beauty!Little Miss Sunshine makes the list cause it reminds me of my crazy family!! LOLand I am going to end this list with Juno cause of it's sheer awesomeness, plus I heart Ellen Page! :)

Baby Your A Firework

2010-12-29T15:27:00.008-06:00

Ok so I know the video is a tad bit corny, but I LOVE this song. I have been listening to it over & over today as I put out job applications, it helps me remember to keep hope alive.

Things have gotten slightly worse as time goes on and there seems to be no end to this plight. I am having a hard time keeping my head above water, this may just be the end for us.. Then I remember the four little munchkins counting on us.. I try to smile and keep treading through all this mud.

Katy Perry - Firework - (Official Video) found on Pop

Happiness

2010-12-28T02:40:00.000-06:00

Day 6-A picture of something that makes you happy.

T-Man and his favorite present. :)Princess and her favorite present. :)

Spunky and her favorite present. :)

Jeremy's Brisket Queso

2010-12-27T15:57:00.007-06:00

We are still trying to eat up leftovers from Christmas dinner so for lunch today, Jeremy made us Brisket Queso. I have to admit I was a bit skeptical at first, but it was so incredibly awesome!!!

He made the Queso like he usually does with Velveeta and Rotel(sometimes he uses salsa) and then he improvised from there. It's funny we only use Velveeta for Queso cause it's nasty for anything else, but for Queso it's the bombdiggity!! lol

Ingredients:
**Most of this was done by taste so not sure on all the measurements**
Onion
Brisket
Cilantro
Cumino
1 Jalapeno
1lb Velveeta
Minced Onion
Garlic powder
1 Can Original Rotel
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:
Heat up the Rotel on the stove and add cubed Velveeta a few pieces at a time until you have a nice thick Queso. Once the Velveeta is all melted add in your salt, pepper, cumino, onion, cilantro and jalapeno. All of this is to taste so make sure to taste it regularly to make sure it's how you like it!

I know it seems a bit thick right now, but the juice from the Brisket will thin it out. Next add as much Brisket as you would like(I think we used about 1 1/2 cups) and a few spoonfuls of the Brisket gravy. Ta Da you have Brisket Queso!!

FOOD!!!

2010-12-23T02:34:00.007-06:00

Day 5-Your favorite recipes

I have "most" of my favorite recipes already here, so I will post a few links to the recipes that come to mind first! :)

Grammy's Squash Casserole is the first recipe that comes to mind cause almost everyone loves it despite the Velveeta! lol

The Chile Rellenos recipe is another of the family's favorites and mine. It takes a lot of time and effort to make them, but it is SO worth it!

The Honey Garlic glazed Meatballs are one of the kids favorites so I am throwing them in there because how often can you make the kids and adults happy!? We serve this with rice and salad, it would be good with potatoes also.

Monkey Bread with Apple Butter. I make this every Christmas morning because the kids love it and honestly I am not a morning person, so it's one of the few breakfasts I am up to make...

These are just a few off the top of my head. There are tons more, so please feel free to search through my recipes by typing Recipe Rally into the search bar at the top left, then click on the words Recipe Rally under the first post and that will bring up all the recipes on my blog!

Merry Christmas and Happy cooking! :) :)

Family relationships

2010-12-22T11:36:00.001-06:00

Day 4-Your parents

When I was younger my parents would always say that the world would end if they ever split up.. I guess because they felt like they were perfect for each other and that nothing could ever come in the way of that love.

In 1998ish my parents split up and the world of course kept turning, but now quite a bit differently. I was 20yrs old when my parents split up so it affected me a lot differently than it did my brother and sister who were much younger than me. I have nothing but fond memories of my parents being together, they were perfect. Although now I understand and did see the issues that were happening and vowed never to do those same things in my relationships.

My dad and my youngest brother Blake. :)

My mom got remarried in 2000 to a wonderful man who makes her very very happy. My father was remarried a few years ago. They are having a bit of a hard time right now, but I wish them the best of luck.Mom and Mike @ this year's Thanksgiving! :)

Wordless Wednesday: A few pics of my beautiful Spunky!

2010-12-22T01:19:00.005-06:00

Click photos to enlarge

For more Wordless Wednesday participants check out these wonderful blogs: Ma Vie Folle, Mommy's Joy and 5 Minutes for Mom.

Love we all need it

2010-12-19T00:50:00.009-06:00

(Mike, Me, Bryan, Jeremy and Warren back in 2000)

Day 3-Your first true love

I have been married once in this short life and "in love" several times, but I have only had one true love. I met Jeremy my Freshman year in high school and instantly knew this was someone that would be important in my life. We dated for awhile and he was "the one" who turned me from a girl to woman, if you know what I mean. So of course from that moment on he has held a special place in my heart.(Us in 2005)

When I came back from New Mexico in 2004 as a free woman we met back up as friends and the chemistry etc was still there as if we had never parted. Things were complicated and difficult for both of us to say the least, but we made it work and I am so happy that we did! I love him with all my heart, he is my soul mate, my one and only!!!(and at Thanksgiving 2010)

The hidden meaning in things

2010-12-18T22:19:00.004-06:00

Day 2-Meaning behind your blog name?

As I sat here listening to Christmas music on the "old people" radio station (it's AWESOME for Christmas music!!!) while making sure I have bought all the Christmas presents, stuffers, wrapping papers, ribbon, other odds and ends, double and triple checking my cookie recipes and menu additions for Christmas dinner, I realized I had not done the "Day 2" part of the Meme I started yesterday so here goes...

It's pretty simple, Phoenix is my "gamer" tag and I have always really liked it. The name or a variation on the name, I used when I played SWG and WOW. I still use it for pretty much any gaming related thing, for my phoenixxrises @ gmail email addy and of course like here on the blog as part of the title.

Since I wanted this to be a mommy blog or my idea of one I felt that Blogging Mama went well and kinda all rolled of the tongue. Now in hindsight I wish I had kept it a bit shorter, but all and all I am glad that I choose this name.

Day 1

2010-12-17T01:54:00.004-06:00

Day 1: Introduce, recent picture, 15 interesting facts.

Hello all :)

My name is Leanne and I am the proud mother to four wonderfully obnoxious, curious and well meaning children! I am in love with my high school sweetie, we are blended family and we try to face it all with a bit of humor since that of course makes everything easier. Some days we do better than others, but we always have love AND each other!

A recent picture of me from November when I had my cut and colored to cover all the Gray!!

15 Interesting facts about me:

I have streaks of gray in my hair like the Frankenstein's bride. lol

2. I am incredibly compulsive about how certain things line up on my desk.

3. I HATE, I mean HATE the telephone with a passion! For no real reason either it just causes me anxiety and stress. Sad part is once I get started talking to someone I am comfy with you cannot get me to shut up.

4. I kill plants! Well not on purpose, but I cannot keep plants alive any kind even ivy it's kinda sad!

5. I am not myself if I do not have at the LEAST 8hrs of sleep! Thank goodness all my kiddos are old enough to sleep now!

6. I am scared of butterflies or well anything that flies near my face.

7. I pick things up with my toes a lot and I am deadly when pinching with them. lol

8. I cannot touch anything made out of paper while my fingers are wet.

9. My fingernails HAVE to be long or I cannot deal with touching anything.

10. I have serious OCD about certain things.

11. I have 3 brothers and 3 sisters, but I am the only one of my kind!(meaning the exact same DNA)

12. If I had the chance, I'd sleep all day long, every day. I'm always so tired.

13. My left foot is half a size smaller than my right foot and I passed it on to at least one of my children!

14. 7) I am an 1/4 Cherokee

15. I have a brother and sister who are the same ages as my two oldest kids!

2010-12-17T01:49:00.003-06:00

I found this on a friend's blog and just knew I had to join in! This is such a neat take on the usual meme! So here we go jumping right in with both feet! I will try my best to do one of these each day for 30 days, if I miss a day here or there I will continue until I am done with them all. :)

Day 1-Introduce, recent picture, 15 interesting facts

Day 2-Meaning behind your blog name

Day 3-Your first love

Day 4-Your parents

Day 5-Your favorite recipes

Day 6-A picture of something that makes you happy

Day 7-Favorite movies

Day 8-A place you've traveled to

Day 9-A picture of your friends

Day 10-Something you're afraid of

Day 11-Favorite tv shows

Day 12-What you believe

Day 13-Goals

Day 14-A picture you love

Day 15-Bible verse

Day 16-Dream house

Day 17-Something you're looking forward to

Day 18-Something you regret

Day 19-Something you miss

Day 20-Nicknames

Day 21-Picture of yourself

Day 22-What's in your makeup bag

Day 23-Favorite vacation

Day 24-Something you've learned

Day 25-Put your iPod on shuffle, first 10 songs

Day 26-Picture of your family

Day 27-Pets

Day 28-Something that stresses you out

Day 29-3 Wishes

Day 30-A picture

Friday Fill-Ins

2010-12-17T01:04:00.003-06:00

1. What in the world do I think I am doing?!?

2. If I can say anything with certainty it is that my children are loved and well fed.

3. Go forth and multiply!!

4. My Granddaddy sent the best Christmas gift ever this year!

5. I keep thinking that this has to get better at some point! I will keep holding my head high, I will keep trying my best and I know I will succeed!!

6. This will work out one way or not.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to spending some quality time with my kiddos watching Christmas movies, tomorrow my plans include taking the kiddos on a hike(as much as Cameron's back can handle), doing some sorta craft and Sunday, I want to make Christmas cookies with my little sister Hannah, Mom and Missy!!! :)

For more Friday Fill-Ins participants click here!

Do you know the Muffin man?

2010-12-12T15:16:00.001-06:00

See.. leftovers can be yummy!!

2010-12-12T12:45:00.006-06:00

Today has been a decent day so far minus a bit of drama at the beginning.. which is honestly annoying, but anyways. I have put out about 15 job applications, swept and mopped the house AND even did some dishes all before noon...on a Sunday!! Will wonders never cease. lol

I realized after I was done that my tummy was rumbling, I never seem to eat when I should. lol So I decided to find something worth eating and use up some of the leftovers in the fridge at the same time. While searching through the fridge I found the rest of the Green Chile Fried Potatoes we had for Brinner yesterday, they were the BOMB!!

All three kiddos loved the potatoes and came back for more. This almost never happens so when it does I have to smile and thank god for it!! I also found a tiny bit of leftover Enchilada sauce and some salad from Grandma's garden which is always really yummy!

I decided to do a bit of wilted salad using the leftover grease from the breakfast pan. I added a tiny bit of Olive oil, kosher salt, pepper and cooked the greens for about 2 minutes. While they were cooking, I nuked the leftover potatoes and sauce. Then threw it altogether for an awesome lunch! I hope you are having a nice lazy Sunday! Love you all! :)

Click to enlarge

Green Chile Fried Potatoes

2010-12-11T12:54:00.007-06:00

Ok so I am beginning to wonder, maybe it's my cooking that is partially to blame.... We try to cook from scratch as much as possible and with every new recipe it gets even better. I have noticed though that my last few meals have been totally carb and comfort food related!

This is obviously my issue since I do the cooking, but I just did not realize how much I base everything around carbs... I will be meal planning this weekend and I am going to be much more aware of what I put on the menu!! I am very very lucky all my kids like most vegetables and if they help me cook it they are much more likely to like it, so that should make it easier to change things up a bit.

For now though here is the awesome meal I made for lunch/dinner today!! :)

Ingredients:
8 potatoes
Dash Cumin
Dash Cumino
Half a white onion
2 fresh garlic cloves
Salt & pepper to taste
Olive oil approx 3 Tbsp
1lb ground beef (unseasoned)
Approx 1/2 cup fresh cilantro
3 Hatch New Mexico Green Chiles

Directions:
Cook ground beef in a separate pan and place aside. Place half the olive oil in the bottom of the pan add potatoes, cumin, garlic, cumino, salt, pepper, onion, cilantro and cook about 20 mins. Add the remaining oil if you would like, I only used more because of how much the potatoes were sticking. Then add the chiles, ground beef and cook until the potatoes are done. Serve alone or with salsa, tortillas and cheese.

The follow up appointment and goings on with the boy's health issues

2010-12-10T13:40:00.007-06:00

At last week's first appoint for Cameron we went to see the doctor for his back to see if we could figure out why he is in so much pain. After some x-rays and a few other tests we determined that he has a slight case of Scoliosis. At 18 degrees they would consider bracing his back, he is at 10 degrees so for now we are going to keep reevaluating the curvature every 6 months. The doctor did say that this is common for boys his age that are growing so fast. He has grown almost 4 inches in the past month!!!

We are making a few changes in the way he supports his back to see if that helps with his pain. No more doing his homework laying on the bed, less time spent sitting on the SOFT couch and his horrible posture is being fixed as I type this... He is allergic to Ibuprofen so he cannot take Advil for his pain which is what the doctor recommends and Tylenol is not doing much it either, so we are trying Aleve at the moment. It seem to be helping so far. We also set up a referral for the Orthopedic specialist to see what else we can do to help with his pain!

So on to today's Dr's appoint which was the follow up to the blood tests he had done Friday, after fasting. Which and let me tell you for the small amount of time he had to fast for was a huge PITA!!! This child is all about food! Which makes the rest of this all the harder.

We went over the blood tests with the doctor, blood sugar....fine, cholesterol...fine, markers for diabetes(which runs in his dad's family) are a bit high. Normal is 5.6 and below, he is at 5.8. Now this does not mean he has diabetes just that he has a predisposition for it and we need to make changes now to ensure he is on the right track to NOT getting it.

Cameron is NOT a happy camper about cutting out sugar and working on portion control. We were already working hard on exercise(cannot at the moment with his back pain per doctor's orders) and portion control, but I had not really even started on the sugar issue. This of course will kick my ass into gear!

I have questions and need help though, he is such an eater and always has been that this is almost making his overeating issue worse. He is now even more focused on food if that is even possible.... How do I help him change his view of food and the reason for eating? I struggle with this myself so any advice would be greatly appreciated.

and another thing...if you read this whole post you are awesome! Thanks for being such a great friend!!

Friday Fill-Ins

2010-12-10T02:25:00.007-06:00

This is Friday Fill-Ins! I post a question and you fill in the blank!

1. I wish I had a job and a home! That's all I want for Christmas!

2. Will someone please hire me...that's what I'm thinking.

3. Please bring a positive attitude and donuts!! :)

4. My friends and family are so amazing.

5. One of my fondest hopes is that things will get back on track and this will all seem like a dream!

6. I am so thankful and I love you all so very much. I just wanted to say thank you.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to watching Ramona and Beezus w/my gorgeous girls, tomorrow my plans include taking Spunky to her BFF's for a sleepover and finally getting Princesses hands done for the Thankful Tree and Sunday, I want to hopefully get the Christmas photo done!!

For more Friday Fill-Ins participants click here!

Black bean, Green Chile & Corn Enchiladas

2010-12-09T21:34:00.009-06:00

Tonight for dinner we had Black bean, Green Chile & Corn Enchiladas, Saffron rice and fresh Spinach & Arugula salad from Grandma's garden. I have never made my own red sauce until tonight... I have always used the canned Enchilada sauce cause I was totally intimidated to try & make it on my own.

Yes...it took more time. Yes...it was a bigger PITA than just pouring out the sauce from a can, but let me tell you it was SOOOOOO worth it!!! The kiddos all LOVED it and that is something that almost never happens!! So I am very thankful indeed! :)

Ingredients for the Red sauce:
1/2 cup vegetable oil
4 T flour
6 T chili powder (I used 3 T reg. chili powder and 3 T pasilla de ancho powder)
2 (14.5 oz) cans diced tomatoes, pureed in blender or food processor until smooth
1 (14 oz) can of chicken broth (or just under two cups)
1 t ground cumin
1 t garlic powder
1 t onion salt

Directions: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Stir in flour and chili powder, reduce heat to medium, cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning the flour.

Gradually stir in pureed tomatoes, chicken broth, and spices into flour and chili powder until smooth. Continue cooking over medium heat approximately 10 minutes, or until thickened slightly. Season to taste with salt.

Ingredients for the enchiladas:
Cheese
Flour Tortillas (Yes we use flour cause we are weirdos!)
1lb ground beef
1 can Corn (drained)
1 can Diced green chilies
1 can Black beans (rinsed & drained)

Directions:
Cook the ground beef, drain and then add black beans, corn and chilies to the bowl, salt and pepper to taste and coat everything with a little bit of the red enchilada sauce.

Fry the tortillas in a bit of oil & then dip in red sauce, so that it is easier to fill them without ripping them. Coat the bottom of the baking pan with a little enchilada sauce. Fill the tortillas with the mixture, cheese and place in baking pan.

Pour about a cup or two of the enchilada sauce over the top. Then place in the oven at 400' for approx 20-25 minutes. After it's hot and bubbly add any leftover filling and cheese, cook until the cheese is melted. It's ready to serve, now top with sour cream.

Homemade Chow Chow or Hot Pepper Relish

2010-12-08T15:20:00.002-06:00

I learned how to make Chow Chow today and it is SOOOO yummy!! I cannot believe I have never had it before! Thanks so much Shawn for teaching me how to make it and showing me how to can. :)

1 ½ lbs. ground jalapeno peppers
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cups shredded cabbage and/or ground green tomatoes
1 ½ cups apple cider vinegar
¾ cup sugar
½ cup water
1 Tbsp. canning and pickling salt
1 Tbsp. minced fresh cilantro
1 tsp. celery seed
2 cloves fresh garlic, minced

Mix all ingredients in a large non-reactive pot or Dutch oven and bring to a boil. Simmer for 8-10 minutes. Place in hot, clean jars and seal. Process filled jars in a hot water canner for 15 minutes. Check seals and if any fail to seal, refrigerate and use first. Makes approx 2 quarts.

Friday Fill-Ins

2010-12-02T23:27:00.003-06:00

1. The best thing about a birthday celebration is spending time with my family and the laughter that comes along with it!

2. Not sure I like the passage of time.

3. I went shopping recently and the most interesting thing I bought was Aleve...

4. I love to play child's games with my kiddos!

5. The reason is not worth explanation..

6. I <3 snow and cold.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to hanging out w/my kiddos, eating pizza and watching The Sorcerer's Apprentice, tomorrow my plans include taking the kids to see Santa, raking the yard and cleaning up the house and Sunday, I want to finish getting Aubrey's mosquito costume done for her Christmas play!

For more Friday Fill-Ins participants click here!

Grammy’s Squash Casserole

2010-11-27T22:33:00.005-06:00

This was one of my Grammy's favorite recipes and I always make it as part of our Thanksgiving dinner. It does not really have a name so I will list it like she always did in her recipe box as Squash Casserole!

Grammy’s Squash Casserole

Ingredients:
3 lbs. yellow squash (sliced)
1 large onion (chopped coarsely)

Sauce:
½ stick of butter
2 T. cornstarch
2 (5 oz) cans of Pet Evaporated Milk
1 lb. velvetta (cubed)

Topping:
2 tubes of ritz crackers (crushed)
1½ sticks of real butter

Directions:
Preheat oven to 350°

Boil squash and onion in salted water til tender, then drain

Melt 1½ sticks butter, saute crackers til crisp and brown, set aside

Melt ½ stick butter (low to med. heat) and sprinkle cornstarch into it. Begin to stir and then start slowly pouring in the evaporated milk, stirring all the while. Next add the cubes of Velvetta and stir constantly while it melts.

In a 9 x 11 pan, layer drained squash/onion mixture first, then pour the cheese sauce over that and lastly add the ritz cracker mixture as a topping.

Bake on a cookie sheet in the middle of the oven for 25 minutes or til bubbly.

Friday Fill-Ins

2010-11-26T00:01:00.000-06:00

1. Three things I must have on my Thanksgiving table: Squash casserole, Yams and Pumpkin pie.

2. No one was sacked out on the couch after lunch this Thanksgiving and the kids just wanted to keep eating! lol

3. This is the perfect time of year! I wish the rest of my world would get back on track...

4. It would be time to decorate the Christmas tree, but we did that a bit early this year so it's already up!

5. Oh, man, thankfully it's over!! We had an AWESOME Thanksgiving, but I am SO glad it's over!

6. I have perfected the art of cooking a Turkey!! This year's feast went off without a hitch and I am so proud of myself! :)

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to watching Eat, Pray, Love, tomorrow my plans include taking the kiddos to go visit Stacia :) and Sunday, I want to life, love and laugh!

For more Friday Fill-Ins participants click here!

Things you can only say at Thanksgiving! LOL!

2010-11-22T02:41:00.001-06:00

1. Talk about a huge breast!

2. Tying the legs together keeps the inside moist.

3. It's Cool Whip time!

4. If I don't undo my pants, I'll burst!

5. Whew, that's one terrific spread!

6. I'm in the mood for dark meat.

7. Are you ready for seconds yet?

8. It's a little dry, do you still want to eat it?

9. Just wait your turn, you'll get some.

10. Don't play with your meat.

11. Just spread the legs open and stuff it in.

12. Do you think you'll be able to handle all these people at once?

13. I didn't expect everyone to come at once!

14. You still have a little bit on your chin.

15. How long will it take after you stick it in?

16. You'll know it's ready when it pops up.

17. Wow, I didn't think I could handle all of that!

18. That's the biggest one I've ever seen!

19. How long do I beat it before it's ready?

Our Thankful Tree!

2010-11-22T02:08:00.004-06:00

Click photos to enlarge

Materials:
Glue
Scissors
Markers
Poster board
Colored pencils
Construction paper

Instructions:
Each person traces their hand multiple times on construction paper. Of course all in Fall colors and then we cut out all the hands (we usually do 4 hands per person in each color). After all the hands are cut out then we write something we are thankful for on each of our hands. Then draw a tree trunk and branches if you would like on a piece of poster board and decorate how you like. Then just glue all the hands to cover the tree as if they were leaves.

I like to make a few look like they are falling from the tree since it is the Fall! There you go you have a Thankful Tree made out of all the things you and your family are thankful for this holiday season!

Here is the link back to last year's tree and the link back to 2008's tree! :)

Friday Fill-Ins

2010-11-20T02:46:00.001-06:00

1. Why does life seem to keep throwing hurdles my way?

2. It would be nice to see the world through rose colored glasses.

3. Thank you for for being my world, I could not do it without you!

4. Halloween is my favorite holiday because I am truly a kid at heart!

5. I am SO ready to be employed!!!!!!!

6. We can be whoever and whatever we make up our minds to be.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to seeing T-man, it's been a few weeks, tomorrow my plans include taking the kids on a longer than normal hike and carving T-man's pumpkin and Sunday, I want to finish our Thankful Tree and make Green Chile(Hatch NM) Stew!

For more Friday Fill-Ins participants click here!

Life in general

2010-11-17T03:01:00.005-06:00

So things have been beyond hectic here and while I continue to have a positive attitude some days are better than others... This being one of them thank goodness! :)

I had an awesome interview (I think) this morning, followed by a day full of chores, a walk with the kids before dinner and I even got a nap at the end of the day which is probably why I am up so late unable to go to bed. lol

This weekend was pure chaos, but sometimes I think my mind works better that way... I often wonder what will happen when they all grow up and move out.. We started Princesses project Saturday (it was due Tuesday) and we had it finished by Sunday night. She did an awesome job even though she forgot to tell me there was a size limit and hers was WAY bigger than it should have been. lol
Things are staring to look up even if it seems to be moving at a snails pace, life does not run according to our plans although that would be nice once and awhile. lol

The boy is finally passing all of his classes and he is doing really well in Chinese which I am very proud of to say the least. His attitude could use some work, but I am trying to attribute most of that to him being a hormonal 13 year old boy........ he is still very helpful as long as it is some sort of food related activity so I guess it could be worse.

Thanksgiving is coming up soon, what are you planning to have for your feast? I will start planning for it in the next few days so look for a new post. :)

Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

2010-11-01T15:08:00.002-05:00

Ingredients:

Salt
Olive Oil
Medium size Pumpkin

***We like to season our seeds before we bake them with a little bit of Chili powder, cinnamon and sugar.***

Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Cut open the pumpkin and use a strong metal spoon to scoop out the insides. Separate the seeds from the stringy core. Rinse the seeds.

2. In a small saucepan, add the seeds to water, about 2 cups of water to every half cup of seeds. Add a half tablespoon of salt for every cup of water (more if you like your seeds saltier). Bring to a boil. Let simmer for 10 minutes. Remove from heat and drain.

3. Spread about a tablespoon of olive oil over the bottom of a roasting pan. Spread the seeds out over the roasting pan, all in one layer. Sprinkle with a little bit of Chili powder, cinnamon and sugar. Bake on the top rack until the seeds begin to brown, 10-20 minutes. When browned to your satisfaction, remove from the oven and let the pan cool on a rack. Let the seeds cool all the way down before eating. Either crack to remove the inner seed (a lot of work and in my opinion, unnecessary) or eat whole.

PhotoHunt: Dark

2010-10-30T00:46:00.002-05:00

This year's Jack O' Lanterns! :)

Click photos to enlarge

For more photos and this week's PhotoHunt check out: tnchick.com

Wordless Wednesday

2010-10-06T00:00:00.000-05:00

Click photos to enlarge

For more Wordless Wednesday participants check out these wonderful blogs: Ma Vie Folle, Mommy's Joy and 5 Minutes for Mom.

PhotoHunt:Letters

2010-10-02T00:31:00.011-05:00

This is the sign for our favorite local farm, notice the "Letters". lol It's AWESOME and we love to visit often! There are chickens, butterfly's, lots of flowers and fruits/veggies growing everywhere! It's located smack dab in the middle of downtown Austin, TX which is another reason why it's so cool cause we don't have to drive far out of town for the freshest of produce. If you live close by I definitely recommend it, Boggy Creek Farms! :)

Click photos to enlarge

For more photos and this week's PhotoHunt check out: tnchick.com

Wordless Wednesday

2010-09-29T00:26:00.013-05:00

Forgive me, but here is another not so wordless Wednesday. lol Jeremy took the kids to meet R2-D2 & his creator at the mall this past weekend and then they hung out at the Lego store for a little while. They were all really excited to get to see R2-D2 they even picked to go do that instead of go to the air show.

Cameron with R2-D2
Spunky with R2-D2Princess was especially excited since R2-D2 is her favorite Star Wars character! :)Jeremy and T-man with R2-D2Spunky checking out the Star Wars Build A BearsA few of the cool Star Wars Lego creations Hanging out at the Lego store Click photos to enlarge

For more Wordless Wednesday participants check out these wonderful blogs: Ma Vie Folle, Mommy's Joy and 5 Minutes for Mom.

Stromboli

2010-09-27T18:06:00.007-05:00

(Picture borrowed from the internet, but I tried to find one that looked closest to ours)

Ingredients:
1 (15 oz.) can tomato sauce
1 (4 oz.) can tomato paste
1 onion, chopped
2 tsp. sugar
Garlic to taste

Combine all above ingredients. Bring to a boil and simmer.

1 loaf frozen bread dough, thawed
1 sm. carton Ricotta cheese
1 (8 oz.) pkg. Mozzarella cheese
1/4 lb. pepperoni, thinly sliced
1 green pepper, chopped
1 pckg fresh & sauteed mushrooms

Directions:
While the sauce is cooking, roll out thawed bread dough with rolling pin to the shape and size(s) that you want. We did individual Stromboli so that we could each make them the way we liked since the kiddos are not fond of the sauteed veges or you can make one large Stromboli and serve it up in slices.

Spread Ricotta cheese over entire surface of the dough. Layer pepperoni, the peppers and mushrooms mixture (if you want) and Mozzarella cheese on top. Re-roll bread dough, tuck seam underneath or use toothpicks to hold together. Bake on cookie sheet at 375 degrees for 25 minutes. Slice and place on plates, pour sauce over. Serve.

PhotoHunt: Natural

2010-09-25T00:21:00.003-05:00

Click photos to enlarge

For more photos and this week's PhotoHunt check out: tnchick.com

Venus

2010-09-23T21:40:00.002-05:00

Introducing our newest family member, Venus the rat! :) The girls playing video games and hanging out with Venus. :)

PhotoHunt: Anniversary

2010-09-11T00:00:00.001-05:00

Jeremy and I before our Anniversary dinner & a movie this June! It's been six years and I love him so much! :)

We went to see How to Train Your Dragon! It was awesome and we took the kids to see it a few days later we liked it so much! :)
For more photos and this week's PhotoHunt check out: tnchick.com

PhotoHunt: Hot

2010-09-04T00:45:00.005-05:00

Enjoying a HOT summer day!

Click photos to enlarge

For more photos and this week's PhotoHunt check out: tnchick.com

Wordless Wednesday

2010-09-01T00:00:00.003-05:00

Again a Not so Wordless Wednesday post this week. While looking through some photos I came across these from our visit to the state capitol last summer. The girls are dressed up as Cowgirls, but if you look closely......get ready to laugh your butt off.....the girls chaps are on backwards! LOL!!!! I am such a huge dork cause I did not even notice until Jeremy said something to me while looking at the pictures!

and I wondered why her chaps would not lay forward...... rofl
and one of all three just for fun! :)
Click photos to enlarge

For more Wordless Wednesday participants check out these wonderful blogs: Ma Vie Folle, Mommy's Joy and 5 Minutes for Mom.

Chile Rellenos

2010-08-30T22:07:00.001-05:00

Chile Rellenos

Ingredients:
2 Tbsp flour (for egg yolk)
1 Tsp salt (for egg white)
6 large eggs, separated
1/2 cup flour

1/2 inch of oil in frying, heated until hot
15 long New Mexico green chiles, roasted and peeled
Approx 25-30 pencil size pieces of Jack, Cheddar or/and Asadero cheese(we used smaller sized pieces of each type of cheese and made them 3 cheese Rellenos)

Getting started, be careful when washing them so that they do not tear very much.

Directions:
First make a small slit in the top of the chile, if it's not already broken and insert your choice of cheese. If the chile is broken try not to worry when you place it in the oil be sure to place it open side up and do NOT flip it. Next beat egg whites with salt until stiff. In a separate bowl beat egg yolks, add in salt and flour, mix well. Fold the yolk mixture into egg whites just enough to mix. Use quickly as this batter will separate.

Roll chiles in flour to coat. Dip chile into batter, fry in hot oil until golden brown on both sides. If oil is hot enough this will only take a few minutes. Drain on several layers of paper towels. Serve with sauce recipe below.Our mild Rellenos, notice the one on the far right is open face it is possible to cook them if split all the way open just be careful and do NOT flip it!
Variations:
For thicker crust "double dip" (repeat dipping sequence). For crunchy crust use buttermilk instead of regular milk in batter.

Hints:
Make sure the oil is HOT before frying.
Keep one hand for "dry" and the other for "wet"

Chile Relleno Sauce

Ingredients:
1 Onion
2 Tbsp Oil
4 Cups Chicken broth
1 Tsp pepper, black
2 Garlic cloves
2 Cups Tomato
1 Tsp Salt
1 Tbsp Oregano

Directions:
Chop onion and crush garlic. Cook in oil until wilt. Add tomatoes and press through strainer. Mix with broth and bring to a boil. Season to taste with salt, pepper and oregano. Use to top Rellenos.

Green Chile Stew

2010-08-28T17:44:00.004-05:00

Borrowed this photo off the net cause my camera is broken. :(

Ingredients:

2 lbs lean stew meat, cut into bite size pieces
1/2 medium onion, chopped
3 cups water
3-4 cloves garlic, minced
4-6 roasted, peeled and diced New Mexico green chiles
3-4 potatoes, diced
1/4 tsp cumin
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Sear stew meat in a large skillet, adding onions last five minutes. Add water and garlic and simmer until meat is tender. Additional water may be added, if necessary. Add New Mexico green chiles, potatoes, salt, pepper and cumin. Simmer until potatoes are tender.

Serves 6

PhotoHunt: Framed

2010-08-28T00:00:00.000-05:00

Click photos to enlarge

For more photos and this week's PhotoHunt check out: tnchick.com

PhotoHunt: Numerical

2010-08-21T01:42:00.002-05:00

Click photos to enlarge

For more photos and this week's PhotoHunt check out: tnchick.com

Gingered Orange Mango Chicken

2010-08-20T18:40:00.008-05:00

Please click to enlarge

Ingredients:
3 tablespoons olive oil
4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
1/8 teaspoon ground thyme
salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1 lemon, juiced
1 cup orange juice
1 tablespoon Soy sauce
1 mango - peeled, seeded and sliced
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Directions:
Heat the olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Place chicken breast halves in the skillet, and cook 5 to 10 minutes on each side, until no longer pink and juices run clear. Season both sides with thyme, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat, and set aside.

Heat the lemon juice in the skillet over medium heat, and scrape up browned bits. Mix in orange juice, mango, soy sauce, ginger, and cinnamon. Over high heat, cook and continuously stir 4 to 5 minutes, until thickened. Spoon over the cooked chicken breast halves to serve. We served it over a bed of rice with spinach salad.

Wordless Wednesday

2010-08-10T23:59:00.009-05:00

Here are a couple of pictures from T-man's first Karate Tournament this past weekend!

Click photos to enlarge

For more Wordless Wednesday participants check out these wonderful blogs: Ma Vie Folle, Mommy's Joy and 5 Minutes for Mom.

PhotoHunt: Colorful

2010-08-07T02:04:00.006-05:00

Click photos to enlarge

For more photos and this week's PhotoHunt check out: tnchick.com

The Mechanics of Toilet Paper...Over VS Under

2010-08-06T00:00:00.001-05:00

Mila's Daydreams

2010-08-05T03:14:00.004-05:00

This is the cutest and most creative blog, it's called Mila's Daydreams!! For all you mother's and baby fans out there check this out! Thanks Melody @ Slurping Life! :)

Here is a sneak peek :)

Kids, movies and parenting choices..

2010-08-05T02:48:00.002-05:00

you know there should honestly be a handbook for parenting or at least a test you have to pass..... Venting here of course, but gotta get something off my chest..... We (Jeremy and I) watched Kick Ass tonight and let me tell you it is NOT!!! a kid's movie, but my stepson's mother who needs her head reexamined took him to see it at the movie theater when it came out. He is 5yrs old btw and she also took the baby, why you ask cause she wanted to see it so why should she allow completely messing up her kids psyche to stop her... Why not get a babysitter you ask? Well in her words "this makes me the coolest mom ever!!"......

He has seen Kick Ass in the movie theater(I don't even wanna try to list all the not kid friendly movies), Gremlins at his Grandma's, watches Bones w/mom every week... He plays COD, Modern Warfare etc with his step-dad and they don't censor anything he watch or plays. I just worry about what it does to his psyche at 5yrs old to watch and play this kind of violent shit you know?

What I want to know is now that dad has seen the movie is he going to say anything to her about it? Well noooooo cause as he says "I bet he forgot it five minutes later"..... Is he really serious? Seriously imo that makes him as ignorant as her..... Sad really that I could not enjoy what a Kick Ass movie that was because the whole time I worried about that poor kid I love so very much!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-08-04T00:01:00.005-05:00

I know that generally Wordless Wednesdays are well wordless and usually just pictures, but this week I decided to be different. I just had to show you guys this video of our new kitten Chester begging Princess for her ice cream, when we got home from the ER last Thursday night. His little meow is sooooooooo pathetic! hahahaha

Licking the ice cream off Princesses shirt. lol

For more Wordless Wednesday participants check out these wonderful blogs: Ma Vie Folle, Mommy's Joy and 5 Minutes for Mom.

PhotoHunt: Public

2010-07-31T00:01:00.002-05:00

Awesome pink outhouse, I saw while out seeing a friends band play last year! :)

For more photos and this week's PhotoHunt check out: tnchick.com

Please come vote for Summitt

2010-07-30T23:17:00.001-05:00

in celebration of Kohl's Cares® 10th anniversary, we're donating $500,000 to 20 schools each for a total of $10 million.

At least our life is not boring

2010-07-30T04:05:00.013-05:00

This afternoon we went swimming with my BFF Stacia and her kiddos at our old neighborhood pool. We had a really good time, despite the constant barrages of "Hold me mommy", "Watch this", "Can you help me fix my goggles" from the kiddos. lol

Stacia and I acting silly at the pool!

While we were at the pool I noticed that Princess had a few weird looking rash type spots on her back. Stacia and I figured it was just heat rash and I thought nothing more of it until we got home. At dinner time I noticed the rash had starting spreading to cover her back and chest which is odd so I decided to keep a close eye on it just in case.

The best picture of our brood minus T-Man and Cameron.

We had sprinkled the house with salt yesterday to kill the fleas, if you want to read more about that click here. So while the kids were eating dinner I was vacuuming all the carpets trying to get the salt out of everything.

Chester all tuckered out after vacuuming up the salt and reading Sassy magazine! lol

After dinner we watched a movie and then I realized I had not given her some Benadryl and her face was a bit puffy. I gave her the Benadryl about 9:30pm and by 11:00 the rash was still spreading now to her arms and she was telling me her throat felt weird! So off we rushed to the ER to get some steroids for this weird out of nowhere allergic reaction! Spunky actually told Princess while she was getting ready to leave "You are so lucky you get to go to the hospital I wanna go!!". LOL! Kids are so funny especially that one.

We arrived at the ER around 11:30 and thankfully it was pretty empty. Got signed in, vitals checked and played Tic Tac Toe with Princess for about 45mins before we actually got back to a "room". I want to say she is so sweet and easy to get along with sometimes it almost makes me forget how hormonal she has been lately.... Once in our "room" we messed around some more taking pictures of course and drawing pictures as well.

The doctor came on in and checked out her rash and asked her if it itched, which it had not at first, but was itchy now. He talked to me about changes in diet, changes in soap, detergent etc. I advised him she had been at camp for a week and got home on Monday. Since being home has used and eaten the same things she normally does, nothing new or different. He determined she was having a "generalized allergy attack" since we really don't know what caused the reaction.... which IMO is weird!!

She had her first dose of Prednisone(sp?) in the ER and they sent us home with a script for a weeks supply. Whew! I knew that was what was wrong, but I just find it so weird that she had an allergic reaction out of nowhere to nothing? Makes me wanna somehow wash everything and disinfect the whole house tomorrow! lol On the way home from the ER at 1:30am we stopped at McDonald's for hot fudge sundaes and french fries, it was awesome!

CMV Video for Pepsi Refresh Everything grant entry

2010-07-29T01:28:00.000-05:00

My carpets are covered in Salt!

2010-07-29T00:30:00.002-05:00

Yes you read that right... My carpets are indeed covered in table salt and have been most of today. Why do you ask are my carpets covered in salt? Well that is because since getting the kitten we now have a flea problem! This is the first time we have had a flea issue so I was at odds as to what to do since money is tight like it is for everyone right now. After asking friends and consulting Google, I decided to use some home remedies first.

So today I decided to use the salt first and see what happens since we have that on hand and it is the easiest. Around 4pm I lightly coated the carpets with the salt as evenly as possible, planning to vacuum it up a few hours later. Then of course with Murphy's Law the vacuum cleaner belt broke and since we are broke(lol) we cannot get another... I am going to go borrow my mom's vacuum tomorrow so that we can see if walking on salt for 24hrs did us any good! I will for sure let you know nothing like cheap and effective!!

Chester :)

2010-07-28T22:11:00.008-05:00

Our beautiful Max!

I don't know if any of you remember, but in January we lost our beloved Max to an accident and it has of course left a void in our hearts. I started thinking about getting another baby in May because it just seemed like the right time to add another kitty to the family. We had gotten rid of the fish and snake before moving to the apt, so we were down to one animal for several months which is quite odd for us. It's been awhile since I have blogged so I will fill you guys in, on that in another post... So I started talking to Jeremy about the idea of getting another kitten to play with the kids this summer and keep Mouse company etc.

On the 16th of July I emailed back and forth with a family with four kittens. I found them on craigslist a few days previous and finally decided I did not want to wait anymore so I made the decision to go pick one up! Jeremy was not very happy with me, but I knew he would get over it once he saw the kitty! Princess and I went to go pick a kitten out, they were all so freaking cute and it was hard to pick just one. We finally settled on the biggest one they had and whose coloring was also a bit different than the others cause we love the odd man out! ;)

My gorgeous niece Bella! ;)

We got Chester the same weekend we babysat my sister Emily's puppy Bella for the first time. We kept her all weekend and poor Mouse was NOT happy about now having a new kitten in the house, but now there is a dog here too! Honestly I think Mouse was less irritated by Bella than by Chester! lol She is very very territorial! The weekend was pretty hectic to say the least. Chester only got rolled four times or so by Mouse and Bella escaped injury all weekend so I think that's awesome! LOL!

So let me introduce the newest addition to our family, Chester!! :)and here he is in action right before he knocked over my soda can! lol

Wordless Wednesday

2010-07-28T01:17:00.007-05:00

Click pictures to enlarge.

For more Wordless Wednesday participants check out these wonderful blogs: Ma Vie Folle, Mommy's Joy and 5 Minutes for Mom.

Sourdough Rosemary Bread

2010-07-25T21:39:00.005-05:00

We made grilled cheese sandwiches with the bread for dinner tonight and they were AWESOME!

(Camera on the fritz images courtesy of Sourdough Home)

Ingredients:

2 t. chili flakes
1 T. fine sea salt
14 oz. cold water
1 lb. 10 oz. bread flour
10 oz sourdough starter (this is the started recipe I use)
2 T. chopped fresh rosemary

Directions:

Combine water and starter in mixing bowl and mix to break up starter. Add flour and water until mix comes together but does not clear sides of bowl (4-5 minutes). Cover dough with plastic wrap and let sit 20 minutes.

Remove wrap and add the salt. Mix well on low speed for 2 minutes. Turn mixer speed to medium and mix 6-8 minutes more until dough snaps back quickly. (Dough temperature should be between 68-74 degrees F). Add in remaining ingredients to blend. Try not to omit the chili powder it REALLY adds to the taste and is not to strong!

Cover dough and let ferment at room temperature until not quite doubled. Punch dough down, divide in half, and shape gently into two balls. Cover and let rest 10 minutes. Form into rounds, or batards and place on a cornmeal dusted baking sheet and cover loosely with greased plastic wrap. Place in refrigerator and chill 12-18 hours.

Preheat oven to 450 degrees F. Let bread dough come to room temperature - 2 to 3 hours. Uncover loaf, remove from baskets if using and slash a decorative pattern on top. Spray oven with water and close door quickly. Open door and place bread inside and spray again. Let bake 3 minutes and spray again. Repeat spraying 2 more times then let bread bake for 10 minutes undisturbed. Lower oven temperature to 400 degrees F. and bake until deep golden brown and loaf temperature registers 205 degrees F.

Red, White and Blue Jello Poke Cake

2010-07-04T17:48:00.002-05:00

Ingredients:
1 package white or yellow cake mix
4 eggs (for the cake mix)
1/3 cup oil (for the cake mix)
1 cup water (for the cake mix)

1 small package flavored gelatin, any flavor
1 cup water (for gelatin)
1 (12 oz.) container Cool Whip

Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Prepare cake, according to package directions, using eggs, oil and water. Bake cake in a 13x9-inch pan for 40 to 45 minutes. Let cake cool in pan for at least 15 minutes. Poke holes across the entire surface of cake with a fork. Dissolve the gelatin in 1 cup of boiling water. Pour the warm gelatin slowly over the surface of the cake (gelatin will soak into the cake). Place cake in the refrigerator and chill for about 4 hours. Spread whipped topping on top of cake before serving and top with Blueberries and Strawberries in the shape of an American Flag. Refrigerate leftover cake.

Sunday Stealing

2010-04-18T00:01:00.000-05:00

Wordless Wednesday

2010-04-14T00:01:00.000-05:00

Click pictures to enlarge

For more Wordless Wednesday participants check out these wonderful blogs: Ma Vie Folle, Mommy's Joy and 5 Minutes for Mom.

I need help

2010-04-13T00:05:00.000-05:00

being thankful for what I have been handed, instead of resenting what has been done. I find it hard sometimes to accept the choices I have made and where they have led me. I am working so hard right now, with all is going on and I feel so helpless. I am trying so hard to look towards the future instead of looking backwards please help me stay positive.

Ruby Tuesday

2010-04-13T00:01:00.000-05:00

"You are invited to participate in Ruby Tuesday!

What are the rules?

Today is Ruby Tuesday so I decided to post a picture of my cheese-less pizza......this is what happens when dinner is made late, mom is really hungry and in a hurry to make her pizza! LOL!Please visit Mary @ Work of the Poet for more Ruby Tuesday participants!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-04-07T00:00:00.000-05:00

Click pictures to enlarge

For more Wordless Wednesday participants check out these wonderful blogs: Ma Vie Folle, Mommy's Joy and 5 Minutes for Mom.

Easter Eggs

2010-04-04T11:23:00.011-05:00

This year we bought an egg dying kit with a wax crayon (1st time for us) and it was really neat! We all enjoyed being able to write on our eggs before dying them! Had a bit of trouble dying the eggs this year cause I immediately put them in the fridge to cool off before thinking....remember eggs don't dye very well cold.. lol

Braided Easter Egg Bread

2010-04-04T11:18:00.009-05:00

Ingredients:
2 eggs
2/3 cup milk
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup white sugar
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons butter, melted
5 whole eggs, dyed if desired
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, divided1 (.25 ounce) package active dry yeast

Directions:
In a large bowl, combine 1 cup flour, sugar, salt and yeast; stir well. Combine milk and butter in a small saucepan; heat until milk is warm and butter is softened but not melted.

Gradually add the milk and butter to the flour mixture; stirring constantly. Add two eggs and 1/2 cup flour; beat well. Add the remaining flour, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring well after each addition. When the dough has pulled together, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic, about 8 minutes.

Lightly oil a large bowl, place the dough in the bowl and turn to coat with oil. Cover with a damp cloth and let rise in a warm place until doubled in volume, about 1 hour.

Deflate the dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into two equal size rounds; cover and let rest for 10 minutes. Roll each round into a long roll about 36 inches long and 1 1/2 inches thick. Using the two long pieces of dough, form a loosely braided ring, leaving spaces for the five colored eggs. Seal the ends of the ring together and use your fingers to slide the eggs between the braids of dough.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Place loaf on a buttered baking sheet and cover loosely with a damp towel. Place loaf in a warm place and let rise until doubled in bulk, about 45 minutes. Brush risen loaf with melted butter.

Bake in preheated oven for 50 to 55 minutes, or until golden.

I found this awesome recipe at AllRecipes.com

Check this out! SO cool!

2010-04-04T00:07:00.001-05:00

You have to watch this video! It shows you how to peel a hard boiled egg w/out actually peeling it!

Happy Easter

2010-04-04T00:05:00.003-05:00

Just wanted to wish everyone a very
Blessed Easter!

and just cause I found them to be hilarious, I had to share the images below! ;)

Sunday Stealing

2010-04-04T00:01:00.002-05:00

"Welcome back to Sunday Stealing. Here we will steal all types of memes from every corner of the blogosphere. Our promise to you is that we will work hard to find the most interesting and intelligent memes. You may have heard of the expression, “honor amongst thieves”. In that age-old tradition, we also have our rules. We will be very honest about our theft: We always let the owner of the selected blog know that we have ripped their meme off. In turn, we will always provide a link to their site. Join in the fun and rip it off of us every Sunday. And stop by fellow thieves blogs and have some fun... Cheers to all us thieves!"

This week's Meme was originally posted by Chibi Pon @ Please Don't Stop the Music.

The 35 Questions x2 Meme: Part Two

36. If you suddenly became single or are single, do you think you could last in a relationship for 12 months or more? Well yea...

37. Do you forgive or forget? I may forgive, but I never forget.

38. Do you trust people? Until I have a reason not too

39. What are you not looking forward to?
Finishing the moving process this next week.

40. Do you get mad easily? Depends

41. Tell us about the last time you were told you that you have pretty eyes. Gosh can't remember...

42. Do you have strange dreams? Yes

43. Ever licked someone's cheek or forehead? LOL! Yes

44. Tell us about the last time you fell asleep in someones arms. Wow I don't know. I am weird about my sleep have to be in bed w/my pillows, blanket etc

45. When did you last play a game? Uhm just a few minutes ago.

46. What do you have on you at all times? My purse

47. Do you go out in public without getting all dressed up? Yes

48. Do you like fruity or minty gum? Both :)

49. Favorite musician or group? NIN

50. Do you like anyone? What kind of question is this?

51. Favorite computer game? The Sims

52. First album you ever went and bought with your own money? The Nelson Brothers ~ After the Rain LMAO!

53. Think back five months ago, were you single? No

54. Do you believe in celebrating anniversaries? Depends

55. Do you think someone is thinking about you right now?
I hope so! :)

56. Last thing you bought? Easter stuff!

57. Are you a jealous person? Sometimes

58. Does it take a lot to make you cry? No

59. Do you have a friend of the opposite sex you can talk to? Yes

60. Have you ever had your heart-broken? Yes

61. Have you ever done something while drunk that you still cannot believe you did? Sadly yes

62. Is there anyone you secretly wish you could be spending your time with right now? Nope

63. Do you text? Only if I have too...

64. Do you wish someone would call or text you right now?
Nope I work on the phone so yea I am good.

65. Is your life anything like it was a year ago? The cast of characters has not changed much, but the rest is well not the same.

66. Go back one year on your blog. Leave us a link to your favorite post. This would not be my favorite post, but it would be the most memorable post from April 09'

67. You can only drink ONE liquid for the rest of your life, what is it? Diet Dr Pepper

68. Tell us about someone that you have lost contact with someone you wish you didn't. Kim Ashbaugh, she was my best friend growing up. We had a falling out years ago and I would love to get back in contact with her...

69. What is the last thing you said out loud? Jordan you need to get done w/that game and go brush your teeth!

70. Will this year be better than last? I hope so!!

If you want to read more about the meme or join in the fun please visit Sunday Stealing.

PhotoHunt: Sweet

2010-04-03T00:00:00.000-05:00

When I found out today's PhotoHunt theme was sweet, I just knew I had to post pics of our "sweets" from Valentines Day! I hope you all have a wonderful weekend and a glorious Easter!

For more photos and this week's PhotoHunt check out: tnchick.com

Sunday Stealing

2010-03-28T00:00:00.000-05:00

"Welcome back to Sunday Stealing. Here we will steal all types of memes from every corner of the blogosphere. Our promise to you is that we will work hard to find the most interesting and intelligent memes. You may have heard of the expression, “honor amongst thieves”. In that age-old tradition, we also have our rules. We will be very honest about our theft: We always let the owner of the selected blog know that we have ripped their meme off. In turn, we will always provide a link to their site. Join in the fun and rip it off of us every Sunday. And stop by fellow thieves blogs and have some fun... Cheers to all us thieves!"

This week's Meme was originally posted by Chibi Pon @ Please Don't Stop the Music.

The 35 Questions x2 Meme: Part One

1. How far away is the last person you kissed? Hum about 4ft

2. Has someone ever told you they would be with you forever? Yes

3. Last person you were in a car with? Jeremy :)

4. Any plans for tomorrow? Not that I remember although I would like to take the kids to do something fun! :)

5. How long does it take for you to take a shower? I like to have at least 15 mins.

6. Best friend or close friends? Close friends

7. Is tomorrow going to be a good day? Hell yes!

8. Did you kiss anyone Friday? Yes

9. Ever thrown up in public? Yes....

10. What's on your mind RIGHT NOW? Not much just chillin

11. Who was the last person you talked to? Jeremy :)

12. What is the WORST subject they teach at school? Calculus

13. Have you seen anyone lately that you don't get along with? Nope

14. What is your favorite color top to wear? Black and Purple

15. Have you ever been in a car accident? Yes

16. What's the closest thing to you that's green? The fly swatter

17. Where would you like to be right now? Right where I am :)

18. Write down some lyrics to the song you're listening to? Not listening to music at the moment. I am listening to Jeremy playing Modern Warfare and Castle is playing the background.

19. How many dogs do you have? None

20. Is anything bugging you right now? Not really just moving.

21. Is life going right for you now? Sorta

22. Is there someone you care about more than yourself? Yes my family!!

23. What made you laugh today? My wonderful friends!

24. What was the last movie you watched? Ninja Assassins

25. Whats the last conversation you had about? Hummm not sure I remember at the moment.

26. What were you doing at 7:00 this morning? Trying to sleep and waiting for the alarm to go off for work...

27. Do you like your hair long or short? Medium

28. Do you want to see somebody right now? Yes

29. Do you like the rain? Sometimes

30. Did you have a valentine this year? Yes

31. The last person you kissed needs you at 3 am, would you go? HELL YES!

32. Would you honestly say you'd risk your life for someone else? Yes yes I would w/out hesitation!

33. Honestly, if you could go back 1 month and change something would you? Yes

34. How do you feel about boys smoking? YUCK!

35. Could you see yourself with someone forever? Yes and I have found him!! :)

If you want to read more about the meme or join in the fun please visit Sunday Stealing.

PhotoHunt: Fresh

2010-03-27T00:39:00.004-05:00

Freshly bloomed flowers! :)

For more photos and this week's PhotoHunt check out: tnchick.com

2010-03-26T00:01:00.001-05:00

The topic for this week's Friday 5 is "Sleep"

1. How many hours’ sleep do you need in order to be at your best, and what’s the minimum you can get on a regular basis and still be functional?
I need at least 8hrs to be at my best, the minimum I can have and still be functional is 5hrs.

2. What’s your favorite sleeping position?
I sleep on my side most of the time with a pillow on either side, one in between my legs and cuddling another.

3. What was the cause of your most recent difficulty sleeping?
Stress

4. When you can’t seem to drift off to sleep right away, what are some things you do to bring about sleep?
I just count numbers, not sheep and sometimes I sing myself to sleep.

5. When did you last doze off at an inappropriate time or in an inappropriate place?
At work during training in November.

For more Friday 5 participants click here!

Friday Fill-Ins

2010-03-26T00:00:00.003-05:00

Hi all, another week is almost over and it is time for yet another weekly installment of Friday Fill-Ins! Janet asks the questions and my answers are underlined.

1. The right word in this case, is no word at all.
2. Go away and shut the door quietly, please.
3. Up...is the only way to go from here...
4. Under a blanket, is where you'll find me.
5. Ooh! What is that shiny thing?
6. Taking a deep breath, is a good idea.
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to getting home from work, tomorrow my plans include working and going to Shawn/Sharon's party and Sunday, I want to finish packing the upstairs bedroom so we are ready to move Thursday!

For more Friday Fill-Ins participants click here!

Ruby Tuesday

2010-03-23T00:01:00.002-05:00

"You are invited to participate in Ruby Tuesday!

What are the rules?

On Tuesdays you can post any photo you like (it must be one of your own) that contains the color RED. Your photo can contain lots of RED or a little RED. When you've posted to your blog, come back here and add your link to Mr. Linky and leave a comment."

LOL! Look ma we can pick the Saber tooth tiger's nose.
Please visit Mary @ Work of the Poet for more Ruby Tuesday participants!

Monday Mayhem

2010-03-22T00:01:00.001-05:00

Today's meme is based on the popular YES or No.

We will focus on the internet. Answer yes or no for each question.

Because I am so very nice, I will allow you to tell one story about one of your answers.

HAVE YOU?

Googled yourself? Yes
Googled your neighbor? No
Used Google maps to spy on someone? No
Spied on someone via Facebook? Yes
Friended someone on Facebook that you don't know? Yes
Tweeted gossip? No
Followed a celeb on Twitter? Yes
Kissed any one of your Facebook friends? Yes
Regretted an online relationship? Yes
Dumped someone online? NO
Played a prank on someone online? No
Spied on a High School bully online? No
Written a nasty email? Yes
Sent something X-rated via email? No
Searched your state's/locality's database for predators? Yes
Done an online search on someone's traffic offenses? Yes
Ordered dinner online? Yes
Purchased something over $250 online? Yes
Left an anonymous comment? No
Checked out someone else's email (as in spy on your s.o.)? Yes

If you want to read more about the meme or to join in the fun please visit Monday Mayhem

Corned Beef with Potatoes, Cabbage and Carrots

2010-03-17T15:13:00.005-05:00

1 pinch salt
2 bay leaves
5 black peppercorns
2 tablespoons butter
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 onion, peeled and left whole
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
4 large carrots, peeled and sliced
4 1/2 pounds corned beef brisket
6-8 small new or golden potatoes, quartered
1 small head cabbage, cored and cut into wedges

In a crock pot, place the beef brisket, peppercorns, garlic powder, onion, bay leaves and salt. Fill pot with water to cover everything plus one inch. Bring to a boil and cook for 20 minutes. Skim off any residue that floats to the top. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 2 to 3 hours, until meat can be pulled apart with a fork.

Once the meat is done, add the cabbage, potatoes and carrots, pressing them down into the liquid. Cook for an additional 45mins or until the potatoes are tender. Skim off any oil that comes to the surface. Stir in the butter and parsley. Turn off the crock pot.

Remove meat from the pot and place onto a serving dish and let rest for 15 minutes. Also remove vegetables to a bowl and keep warm. Slice meat on the diagonal against the grain. Serve meat on a platter and spoon juices over meat and vegetables.

Golden Potato Soup

2010-03-08T19:15:00.002-06:00

Ingredients:
3 cups peeled and cubed potatoes
1/2 cup chopped celery
1/2 cup chopped onion
1 cube chicken bouillon
1 cup water
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 pinch ground black pepper
2 teaspoons all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups milk
1 1/2 cups shredded cheese
1 cup chopped ham

Directions:
In a large stock pot add potatoes, celery, onion, chicken bouillon, water and parsley flakes. Season with salt and pepper and simmer until vegetables become tender.

In a separate bowl mix flour and milk. Once it is well blended, add to soup mixture and cook until soup becomes thick.

Stir in cheese, cooked ham or hamburger and simmer until cheese is melted.

I found this awesome recipe @ AllRecipes.com!

Beef and Irish Stout Stew w/ Sourdough bread

2010-03-01T16:37:00.013-06:00

Ingredients:
2 pounds lean beef stew meat
3 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
1 pinch cayenne pepper

1 clove garlic, crushed
2 cups chopped carrot2 large onions, chopped
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 sprig fresh thyme
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley for garnish
1 1/2 cups Irish stout beer (e.g., Guinness)Directions:

Toss the beef cubes with 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. In a separate bowl, stir together the flour, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper. Dredge the beef in this to coat. Heat the remaining oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef, and brown on all sides. Add the onions, and garlic. Stir the tomato paste into a small amount of water to dilute; pour into the pan and stir to blend. Reduce the heat to medium, cover, and cook for 5 minutes.Pour 1/2 cup of the beer into the pan, and as it begins to boil, scrape any bits of food from the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon. This adds a lot of flavor to the broth. Pour in the rest of the beer, and add the carrots and thyme. Cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 2 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley.

Cauldron O' Beef!I found this awesome recipe @ AllRecipes.com!

Homemade Potato Soup

2010-02-27T17:28:00.004-06:00

Ingredients:
Milk
Butter
1 can of corn
Green onions
Salt and pepper to taste
3-4 cups of Chicken broth
5 medium to large potatoes

Directions:
Cut the potatoes into small cubes and boil them until almost done. Remove and run under cold water to help stop the cooking process. Then saute the green onion and corn in the butter. Add corn and green onions to the potatoes. Then add 3-4 cups of chicken broth and fill the rest of the way up with milk.

AND my mom wants you all to know she peels her potatoes! I on the other hand am lazy! lol

**Side note my mom does not add chicken broth she just fills the pan up with milk to cover the potatoes etc.**

Coca-Cola "Happiness Machine"

2010-02-14T22:49:00.011-06:00

I saw this video on one of my favorite websites Our Mom Spot and it is awesome! :)

Ruby Tuesday

2010-02-02T00:05:00.000-06:00

"You are invited to participate in Ruby Tuesday!

What are the rules?

On Tuesdays you can post any photo you like (it must be one of your own) that contains the color RED. Your photo can contain lots of RED or a little RED. When you've posted to your blog, come back here and add your link to Mr. Linky and leave a comment."

Jeremy and I went to see The Book of Eli this past week and saw these three cuties on the way in to buy some popcorn. The Book of Eli was awesome, we both really enjoyed it. I have yet to take the kids to see the new Alvin and the Chipmunks movie, but I am sure it is cute and obnoxious like the rest of them. lol Please visit Mary @ Work of the Poet for more Ruby Tuesday participants!

PhotoHunt: Spotted

2010-01-30T00:01:00.003-06:00

Pretty "spotted" horse @ a friends house in Manor. (click the pictures to enlarge)

For more photos and this week's PhotoHunt check out: tnchick.com

Cat VS Bear

2010-01-29T02:02:00.001-06:00

Possessed cat

2010-01-29T01:57:00.001-06:00

Friday Fill-Ins

2010-01-29T00:01:00.000-06:00

Hi all, another week is almost over and it is time for yet another weekly installment of Friday Fill-Ins! Janet asks the questions and my answers are underlined.

1. Wouldn't it be easy if we all had our own "easy button"!

2. Finished it better than ever!

3. I love the taste of Bagels!

4. I need some serious organization to happen in the living room.

5. The first thing we're going to do is mix the flour with sugar and then..

6. Our bathroom faucet goes drip, drip, drip; cause the kids can't seem to turn it off!

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to cuddling my kiddos on the couch after work, tomorrow my plans include working...... and Sunday, I want to make it through yet another LONG BORING Sunday at work.

For more Friday Fill-Ins participants click here!

"Not so" Wordless Wednesday

2010-01-27T00:01:00.000-06:00

My little sales woman selling Girl Scout cookies.

Making signs for the booth. :)

Both girls signs :)

For more Wordless Wednesday participants check out these wonderful blogs: Ma Vie Folle, Mommy's Joy and 5 Minutes for Mom.

Ruby Tuesday

2010-01-26T00:01:00.001-06:00

"You are invited to participate in Ruby Tuesday!

What are the rules?

On Tuesdays you can post any photo you like (it must be one of your own) that contains the color RED. Your photo can contain lots of RED or a little RED. When you've posted to your blog, come back here and add your link to Mr. Linky and leave a comment."

Random red barn at a friend's house in the country.Please visit Mary @ Work of the Poet for more Ruby Tuesday participants!

Monday Mayhem

2010-01-25T00:01:00.002-06:00

"We're going to say it now- this is the home of where no two Mondays stay the same. Please join us weekly for our 'inspirational' and never the same weekly memes. Memes will be Posted on Sunday afternoon. Join up on our weekly linky and be sure to visit the other participants."

You have
visited my page for:

seconds!

1. What color socks do you have on? (no peaking) White

2. What color underwear do you have on? White

3. What did you eat for breakfast this morning? Bagel

4. Who is the most annoying person on TV? Jay Leno

5. When was the last time you kissed someone?
A few minutes ago

6. What 'starlet' has had too much plastic surgery?
Lisa Rinna

7. What ingredients would you use to make a home made pizza? Mushrooms, onions, bell pepper and tomatoes.

8. Who won the World Series last year? Uhmmmm

9. What is your weather like? Cold and Windy

10. Visit Thom's Blog and steal an image to post here.
11.Visit GlitterBabe's Art Shop or her blog and 'borrow' a drawing or an image to show off here.
12. Visit Bud's Blog and steal a meme question to ask right here.
"If elephants had wings, how many feathers do you think they would have on each wing?"
247

How long did it take you to complete this meme?
148.7 secs or approx 2.5 mins

If you want to read more about the meme or to join in the fun please visit Monday Mayhem