I watched Food, Inc. last night. OH. MY. GOODNESS.
Stunning. Who knew all that? Not me. I am not an animal rights activist (I believe God created some animals to eat), but the pictures of those poor cows made me so sad. Chickens and hogs too. The things that we humans have done to make more money is terrible and we are paying for it with our health. I feel so bad for the farmers who are basically forced to do things the way a certain company wants instead of farming the food they want to sell to us. If you haven't watched it, you should.
Now onto the Lovelocks. I told everyone at the beginning of the year that I was going to focus on three main things this year: faith, family and frugality. Having healthy food was one of those goals. Everyone knows that for the most part organic and frugal do not belong in the same sentence but we are trying to buy more organic food because of all the garbage that is put in our mainstream food. Today was grocery day and I spent the same amount that I normally spend and yet I bought not one processed food and all organic meat. {I actually hit a sale and got some grass fed beef steaks for $2.39 each, oh yeah baby!!} I was pretty happy with my acquisitions and my receipt. Not everything was organic, but none of it was that junk we usually buy. I started making my own mac 'n cheese awhile back and instead of fruit snacks my kids are eating California cuties. My kids absolutely love cauliflower, broccoli, carrots and even brussel sprouts, so we will eat those and leave those mashed potatoes for special occasions. I also stepped out big time and did not buy ANY cereal. This is huge for us because my kids love cereal. They eat it every morning. So instead of giving them the choice of cereal or eggs there are two new choices: organic eggs or organic waffles with fruit. We are going to do this for awhile and see how it goes. The more I read about high fructose corn syrup the more I don't want my kids eating it. I am also praying that this new diet (way of eating) will help Sam's eczema get better.
As for everything else in my life, its CRAZY! We are going to St. Louis every other weekend. We are still trying to secure housing (we might have to not be so picky, he he) and then there is the packing. So we are busy, but not too busy to get out and enjoy this beautiful spring weather. I am loving the sunshine for sure.
I hope you all have a bright, bright sun shiny day!!
Showing posts with label Food. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Food. Show all posts
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
YUM, YUM, First Recipe of the New Year!!
I have been on a serious hunt to find this family some new, healthy, satisfying recipes! I have actually come up with several, probaby enough to have two new meals a week!! I made one of those new recipes last night and it was YUM-O! I got the recipe off of Spark Recipes, there are TONS of recipes over there and they all have the nutritional info with them, which is the main reason I love the site so much. I am not usually a big sausage eater, I mean if I'm going to have pork it's going to be bacon, but this sounded so good!! Here goes:
Easy Sausage Veggie Balls
Ingredients:
Directions:
Easy Sausage Veggie Balls
Ingredients:
- 1 package Ground Hot Italian Sausage
1 cup Part Skim Ricotta Cheese
1 cup Frozen Spinach, thawed and drained
4 Garlic Cloves, minced
2 Roma Tomatoes, diced
2 tbsp Chives
1/2 tsp Sage
1/2 tsp Lemon Zest
Pinch of Onion Powder
Pinch of Black Pepper
Directions:
1) Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
2) Spray nonstick cooking oil on a cookie sheet
3) Slice tomatoes in half and squeeze juices out over the sink before dicing them. This will prevent meatballs from being too watery
4) Mix all ingredients together (with hands) and roll into 6 balls
5) Place balls on cookie sheet and bake in oven for about 25-30 minutes.
Number of Servings: 6
Recipe submitted by SparkPeople user BLUESUNSHINEFL. (me giving credit where credit is due)
Number of Servings: 6
Now, I had to cook mine a little longer, but that could just be my obsessive desire to make sure all our meat is thoroughly cooked through. I'm funny like that. I ate them alone, but you could have a side of your choice. I also forgot tomatoes, so no tomatoes in there for us, but I did quick steam some shredded cabbage (about a half cup) and threw it in there.
Because of one sick kid, one picky kid and one kid that couldn't wait until dinner to eat (he ate a Graduate meal and went to bed early), I am the only one that ate them. Hubs worked until 10 last night so he just had a snack when he got home. I thought up something delicious for lunch today with one leftover ball (there are two more in the fridge). I took it out, smashed it up and heated it up. I sliced an apple. I took two slices and sliced them very thin. I pulled out a whole wheat tortilla, layered on the thin apples slices and the smashed up, warm sausage ball and rolled it up. DELISH!! One the side I ate the rest of the apple. So good and so healthy. Two meals from one recipe, I like that.
Frugaltivity of this meal:
$2.25 Sausage
$2.00 Ricotta cheese (didn't use the whole container)~~$.150
$1.00 Frozen Spinach (didn't use whole bag)~~$0.40
I had all the spices already and cabbage left from another meal.
Total: $4.15 approximately $0.70 per serving YAY!!!
And yes, frugaltivity is my own word. Thank you. No applause necessary.
2) Spray nonstick cooking oil on a cookie sheet
3) Slice tomatoes in half and squeeze juices out over the sink before dicing them. This will prevent meatballs from being too watery
4) Mix all ingredients together (with hands) and roll into 6 balls
5) Place balls on cookie sheet and bake in oven for about 25-30 minutes.
Number of Servings: 6
Recipe submitted by SparkPeople user BLUESUNSHINEFL. (me giving credit where credit is due)
Number of Servings: 6
Now, I had to cook mine a little longer, but that could just be my obsessive desire to make sure all our meat is thoroughly cooked through. I'm funny like that. I ate them alone, but you could have a side of your choice. I also forgot tomatoes, so no tomatoes in there for us, but I did quick steam some shredded cabbage (about a half cup) and threw it in there.
Because of one sick kid, one picky kid and one kid that couldn't wait until dinner to eat (he ate a Graduate meal and went to bed early), I am the only one that ate them. Hubs worked until 10 last night so he just had a snack when he got home. I thought up something delicious for lunch today with one leftover ball (there are two more in the fridge). I took it out, smashed it up and heated it up. I sliced an apple. I took two slices and sliced them very thin. I pulled out a whole wheat tortilla, layered on the thin apples slices and the smashed up, warm sausage ball and rolled it up. DELISH!! One the side I ate the rest of the apple. So good and so healthy. Two meals from one recipe, I like that.
Frugaltivity of this meal:
$2.25 Sausage
$2.00 Ricotta cheese (didn't use the whole container)~~$.150
$1.00 Frozen Spinach (didn't use whole bag)~~$0.40
I had all the spices already and cabbage left from another meal.
Total: $4.15 approximately $0.70 per serving YAY!!!
And yes, frugaltivity is my own word. Thank you. No applause necessary.
Nutritional Info
- Servings Per Recipe: 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories: 145.1
- Total Fat: 8.5 g
- Cholesterol: 44.5 mg
- Sodium: 80.3 mg
- Total Carbs: 5.6 g
- Dietary Fiber: 1.0 g
- Protein: 4.7 g
Monday, June 22, 2009
My Crock Pot and I Have Fallen in Love
It has become my best friend. My ultimate time saver. My sanity-saving, dinner is actually done, very best friend.
I used to be an occasional crock pot user. Pot roast and Mexican beef was pretty much the only time I used it. Then I became wise. I started thinking up things that would cook all by themselves in my pretty red crock pot, while I was doing something else. So I decided on Curry Chicken with Potatoes. Then came the Hawaiian Chicken. Two successes in the crock pot. My mind began to wonder the things that could be done in this, formerly under-appreciated kitchen appliance.
I know, I know, there are dozens of recipes for the slow cooker, I'm getting there. Ok?
So one day while I in the midst of my sorta-kinda bloggity break I was packing (which was the reason for the bloggity break) and I desparately needed dinner to cook itself. I had chicken on hand, but we had just had curry chicken the week before. So I decided to just put something together as I went. Here is how it went:
1 Can of chicken broth
3 Frozen Chicken breasts
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste
Several dashes of Ground Lemon Peel
Several dashes of Rosemary
A sprinkle of Thyme
Cover and cook on high for four and a half hours (cut this time if the chicken is already thawed out), you know cook it till it's done. I know I didn't give exact measurements on the spices and herbs, but do that to your taste.
Peal potatoes, however many you need for your brood, layer on top of the almost cooked chicken. Sprinkle a little more lemon peel, salt, pepper and rosemary. Cover and cook until the potatoes are done.
Serve with a steamer bag of veggies of your choice (or alone if you and veggies don't agree). We had brussel sprouts along with it.
YUMMY!! It's now an official meal with a title: Lemon Rosemary Chicken and Potatoes. I didn't say it would be unique, just titled. I spent my creativity on the food, not the title.
I literally put that list of ingredients in, in the order they are listed. This chicken was delicious, a major crowd pleaser, even the kids ate it and liked it. Best news of all, I got to work while my crock pot was cooking my dinner.
So now I consider myself a habitual crock pot chef. That's right, I throw it in and it cooks it. We work well together, don't ya think??
Now all I need is one of those fancy crock pots with a timer! ~~Smile~~
I used to be an occasional crock pot user. Pot roast and Mexican beef was pretty much the only time I used it. Then I became wise. I started thinking up things that would cook all by themselves in my pretty red crock pot, while I was doing something else. So I decided on Curry Chicken with Potatoes. Then came the Hawaiian Chicken. Two successes in the crock pot. My mind began to wonder the things that could be done in this, formerly under-appreciated kitchen appliance.
I know, I know, there are dozens of recipes for the slow cooker, I'm getting there. Ok?
So one day while I in the midst of my sorta-kinda bloggity break I was packing (which was the reason for the bloggity break) and I desparately needed dinner to cook itself. I had chicken on hand, but we had just had curry chicken the week before. So I decided to just put something together as I went. Here is how it went:
1 Can of chicken broth
3 Frozen Chicken breasts
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste
Several dashes of Ground Lemon Peel
Several dashes of Rosemary
A sprinkle of Thyme
Cover and cook on high for four and a half hours (cut this time if the chicken is already thawed out), you know cook it till it's done. I know I didn't give exact measurements on the spices and herbs, but do that to your taste.
Peal potatoes, however many you need for your brood, layer on top of the almost cooked chicken. Sprinkle a little more lemon peel, salt, pepper and rosemary. Cover and cook until the potatoes are done.
Serve with a steamer bag of veggies of your choice (or alone if you and veggies don't agree). We had brussel sprouts along with it.
YUMMY!! It's now an official meal with a title: Lemon Rosemary Chicken and Potatoes. I didn't say it would be unique, just titled. I spent my creativity on the food, not the title.
I literally put that list of ingredients in, in the order they are listed. This chicken was delicious, a major crowd pleaser, even the kids ate it and liked it. Best news of all, I got to work while my crock pot was cooking my dinner.
So now I consider myself a habitual crock pot chef. That's right, I throw it in and it cooks it. We work well together, don't ya think??
Now all I need is one of those fancy crock pots with a timer! ~~Smile~~
Friday, May 29, 2009
Delightful, Healthy and Super Easy!
Last night for supper the Lovelocks enjoyed what I have dubbed Valerie's Hawaiian Chicken. I twittered about it and had some request the recipe. Since I haven't finished my other post, I decided to post a recipe today. It is cooked in the crock pot (which is probably my closet kitchen friend) and it is super easy.
Valerie's Hawaiian Chicken
Indgredients:
4 Boneless Chicken Breasts, fresh or thawed out
1 Bottle of Lawry's Hawaiian Marinade
1 16 oz bag of frozen Sugar Snap Peas (I prefer Bird's Eye Steamer bag)
1 Can of chunk pineapple (optional)
1 Can of chicken broth
Brown rice (as much as your family eats)
1. Turn crock pot onto the warm setting, cover the bottom of crock with chicken broth. You only actually need a half of a can. Pour about 1/3 of the bottle of marinade into the chicken broth, stir and cover with lid.
2. In a mixing bowl, cover the chicken breasts with marinade (don't use it all, but most of what is left). Make sure they are coated, cover bowl and place in fridge for about an hour.
3. After the hour is up, put chicken and the marinade from the bowl into the crock pot. Make sure the chicken is covered in juice. If it's not then add a little more broth. Cover.
4. Turn up crock pot up to high. Cook on high for one hour.
5. Turn crock pot down to low and cook for two more hours.
6. At 45 minutes before the chicken is done, steam the sugar snap peas in the microwave. Drain the water and pour steamed veggies into the crock pot. At this time add the can of pineapple (if you choose, just as yummy without it) and the remainder of marinade.
7. Cook your brown rice.
8. Serve chicken mix over the rice! YUM!!
Now, there are some variations to this. If you need more chicken (more people to feed) then use two bottles of marinade and a whole can of broth. You can also cook the chicken on low the whole time you just need to add about a hour and a half to your cook time. Enjoy!!
Now, I must go work on some packing!! So much stuff, so little time.
Valerie's Hawaiian Chicken
Indgredients:
4 Boneless Chicken Breasts, fresh or thawed out
1 Bottle of Lawry's Hawaiian Marinade
1 16 oz bag of frozen Sugar Snap Peas (I prefer Bird's Eye Steamer bag)
1 Can of chunk pineapple (optional)
1 Can of chicken broth
Brown rice (as much as your family eats)
1. Turn crock pot onto the warm setting, cover the bottom of crock with chicken broth. You only actually need a half of a can. Pour about 1/3 of the bottle of marinade into the chicken broth, stir and cover with lid.
2. In a mixing bowl, cover the chicken breasts with marinade (don't use it all, but most of what is left). Make sure they are coated, cover bowl and place in fridge for about an hour.
3. After the hour is up, put chicken and the marinade from the bowl into the crock pot. Make sure the chicken is covered in juice. If it's not then add a little more broth. Cover.
4. Turn up crock pot up to high. Cook on high for one hour.
5. Turn crock pot down to low and cook for two more hours.
6. At 45 minutes before the chicken is done, steam the sugar snap peas in the microwave. Drain the water and pour steamed veggies into the crock pot. At this time add the can of pineapple (if you choose, just as yummy without it) and the remainder of marinade.
7. Cook your brown rice.
8. Serve chicken mix over the rice! YUM!!
Now, there are some variations to this. If you need more chicken (more people to feed) then use two bottles of marinade and a whole can of broth. You can also cook the chicken on low the whole time you just need to add about a hour and a half to your cook time. Enjoy!!
Now, I must go work on some packing!! So much stuff, so little time.
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Birthday BBQ
No, I am not 830, though there are days I feel like it.
While in St. Louis we had a birthday BBQ for Makiah. Little did I know, that I was included in the birthday celebrations! Makiah got presents and money, I got money. Money is always the right size and color.
The food was awesome, the socializing was great, Makiah and Sam played with friends and puppies--a good time was had by all. Speaking of food, we indulged on grilled burgers with Linton's Special Sauce, grilled hot dogs, potato salad, macaroni salad, chips and dip, oatmeal scotchies (yummy cookies that are fabulous) and of course, ice cream cake!
I have to take a moment and tell you all that Linton's burgers are the best. The sauce he makes to go on them is fabulous! I would give you the recipe, but there isn't one. He just pours certain ingredients together in whatever amount he thinks and cooks it on the stove. Then to complete the burger you top it with a grilled slice of fresh pineapple! YUM! Caribbean burgers is what they have been dubbed in our house.
Enough talk about food, it's making me hungry. ~Smile~
Also, thank you for all the kind comments on Monday's post, either on facebook or here.
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Cookin' It Up
Last week I mentioned a post about some kitchen fun, well, needless to say we didn't get around to it until today. Makiah got her school work done and I have to say this was the first day since coming off Christmas break that I didn't consider public school. It went really well, she finished it all, focused and it was peaceful. {Thank you Lord for answering prayer}
Anyhoo, everyone was so good today, I mean they ALL took a nap and everything that mama decided today was a good day to do some fun in the kitchen, my term for learning in disguise.
My Aunt Sadie is a very talented seamstress. Actually my Nanny (who passed away) and all her sisters are amazing with a sewing machine. My aunt is very happy that I am teaching my kiddos something in the kitchen, especially Makiah, as part of our homeschool program. So Aunt Sadie took to the sewing machine and sent them matching aprons and Daniel has a bib that matches. So today we put them into use, well the use they were intended for. The kids have been wearing them practically all day every day.
After naps and playing Wii, we headed to the kitchen to make cornbread and blueberry muffin bread (that would be muffins not cooked in the muffin pan). We had a great time. I did a lot of teaching, but Makiah was having so much fun, she didn't even notice. ~Smile~
They did really well and they didn't even argue. I'm telling you today was like a miracle of peace. I'm already praying that tomorrow goes the same.
She is very focused and he is looking at the measuring spoons. He was waiting patiently for his turn.
He REALLY likes to stir, but he listened the whole time and waited his turn for everything. I was beginning to wonder where my son was?!?!
Wild hair, half naked, but ready to cook!
We had a really good time and lots-o-fun! I love it when a day goes this well.
Anyhoo, everyone was so good today, I mean they ALL took a nap and everything that mama decided today was a good day to do some fun in the kitchen, my term for learning in disguise.
My Aunt Sadie is a very talented seamstress. Actually my Nanny (who passed away) and all her sisters are amazing with a sewing machine. My aunt is very happy that I am teaching my kiddos something in the kitchen, especially Makiah, as part of our homeschool program. So Aunt Sadie took to the sewing machine and sent them matching aprons and Daniel has a bib that matches. So today we put them into use, well the use they were intended for. The kids have been wearing them practically all day every day.
After naps and playing Wii, we headed to the kitchen to make cornbread and blueberry muffin bread (that would be muffins not cooked in the muffin pan). We had a great time. I did a lot of teaching, but Makiah was having so much fun, she didn't even notice. ~Smile~
They did really well and they didn't even argue. I'm telling you today was like a miracle of peace. I'm already praying that tomorrow goes the same.
She is very focused and he is looking at the measuring spoons. He was waiting patiently for his turn.
He REALLY likes to stir, but he listened the whole time and waited his turn for everything. I was beginning to wonder where my son was?!?!
Wild hair, half naked, but ready to cook!
We had a really good time and lots-o-fun! I love it when a day goes this well.
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Yummy and Healthy--You Got It A New Recipe
I am writing a HUGE post for tomorrow, so all you get today is a new recipe. On my long list of goals for 2009, I included that I plan to try one new recipe a week, at least. When I find a good one, I want to pass it along. I made this one on Monday night and we really enjoyed it. I did add a couple of spices to it, because we like things with a lot of seasonings.
Spinach and Beef Bake
Ingredients
6 medium potatoes (@600g) cooked and sliced 1/4" thick
2 tblsp 40% margarine, melted
1/4 cup onion chopped
2 cloves garlic minced
8 1/2 oz (250 grams) extra lean ground beef
10 oz pkt (@250 grams) frozen spinach thawed and squeezed dry
1/3 cup 1% cottage cheese
1/3 cup low fat Chedder or Colby cheese
grated
1 large egg beaten
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper ground (I added to taste, I didn't measure it)
What I added:
A pinch of sweet paprika
Tony Chachere's cooked with my ground beef, season to taste
A drop of two of Tabasco, if you like it hot (I added this to Hubs individually)
Directions
Heat oven to 350deg and grease an 8' square baking pan.
Place half of the sliced potatoes overlapping in baking pan and pour over half of the margarine.
Cook onions and garlic until soft , add ground beef and cook until no longer pink. Drain off any fat, take off stove and cool slightly.
Add cottage cheese, spinach, egg, salt and pepper stirring to mix well.
Spread mixture over potato slices , cover with remaining potato slices, drizzle over remaining margarine and top with grated cheese.
Cook for approx 30 minutes or until hot, and stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Number of Servings: 4
This really good and filling. Even the kids liked it. We ate it alone, as a complete meal.
I got the recipe from Spark Recipes, and there are tons and tons if you are looking for more great, healthy recipes.
Tomorrow's post is big and informative and might possible cause a spark. . . . .
Spinach and Beef Bake
Ingredients
6 medium potatoes (@600g) cooked and sliced 1/4" thick
2 tblsp 40% margarine, melted
1/4 cup onion chopped
2 cloves garlic minced
8 1/2 oz (250 grams) extra lean ground beef
10 oz pkt (@250 grams) frozen spinach thawed and squeezed dry
1/3 cup 1% cottage cheese
1/3 cup low fat Chedder or Colby cheese
grated
1 large egg beaten
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper ground (I added to taste, I didn't measure it)
What I added:
A pinch of sweet paprika
Tony Chachere's cooked with my ground beef, season to taste
A drop of two of Tabasco, if you like it hot (I added this to Hubs individually)
Directions
Heat oven to 350deg and grease an 8' square baking pan.
Place half of the sliced potatoes overlapping in baking pan and pour over half of the margarine.
Cook onions and garlic until soft , add ground beef and cook until no longer pink. Drain off any fat, take off stove and cool slightly.
Add cottage cheese, spinach, egg, salt and pepper stirring to mix well.
Spread mixture over potato slices , cover with remaining potato slices, drizzle over remaining margarine and top with grated cheese.
Cook for approx 30 minutes or until hot, and stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Number of Servings: 4
This really good and filling. Even the kids liked it. We ate it alone, as a complete meal.
I got the recipe from Spark Recipes, and there are tons and tons if you are looking for more great, healthy recipes.
Tomorrow's post is big and informative and might possible cause a spark. . . . .
Friday, January 9, 2009
The Pain of Success
At least that's what I hope this is. I jumped whole heartedly back into exercising. My hips and knees are complaining, loudly, that I should have walked back into exercising rather than jumping back in. All I can say is that the scale had better be in my favor at the end of this week of self-deprivation, torture (exercising) and giving up my beloved Dr. Pepper.
Even though my joints aren't happy with me, I do have more energy and generally feel better than I have in a long time. For this I am grateful and I am willing to give up the soda to continue to feel good. I think it's a reasonable trade, don't you?
We have also been eating more at home, which is not only good for the budget, but good for my waistline and everyone's general health. I have recently gotten a little paranoid about what's happening with my food, out of my presence. I kinda want to go inspect the kitchen, the dishwasher, the cooks, and anyone or thing else that is touching my food. Restaurants don't like nosey patrons, so we are eating at home. I guess I have watched one too many Kitchen Nightmares on Hulu.
As for my goals for 2009, for the most part I am keeping up nicely, except for that one about blogging everyday, even if it's just a picture. Gotta get better with that one. The Bible reading is going really well and I am enjoying doing a structured reading. It's good to sometimes go back and read the Beginning, remind myself of how awesome God really is.
Well, I think that adequately updated everyone for today. I am working on a couple posts, so I can get ahead.
I hope everyone has a blessed Friday!!
Even though my joints aren't happy with me, I do have more energy and generally feel better than I have in a long time. For this I am grateful and I am willing to give up the soda to continue to feel good. I think it's a reasonable trade, don't you?
We have also been eating more at home, which is not only good for the budget, but good for my waistline and everyone's general health. I have recently gotten a little paranoid about what's happening with my food, out of my presence. I kinda want to go inspect the kitchen, the dishwasher, the cooks, and anyone or thing else that is touching my food. Restaurants don't like nosey patrons, so we are eating at home. I guess I have watched one too many Kitchen Nightmares on Hulu.
As for my goals for 2009, for the most part I am keeping up nicely, except for that one about blogging everyday, even if it's just a picture. Gotta get better with that one. The Bible reading is going really well and I am enjoying doing a structured reading. It's good to sometimes go back and read the Beginning, remind myself of how awesome God really is.
Well, I think that adequately updated everyone for today. I am working on a couple posts, so I can get ahead.
I hope everyone has a blessed Friday!!
Thursday, December 25, 2008
Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas!
Merry Christmas, Merry Christmas, Merry Christmas!!!!!!
I hope you all are having a wonderful day, full of family, food and love!!
Yesterday I was involved in a baking/cooking marathon, so no time for posting. Then in a sickness marathon (but I'll save the details for a different post).
I made snickerdoodles, brownies, Turtle cookie bars, sweet corny bread, Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno's, chicken and mashed potatoes.
There will be more cooking later today after Christmas with the grandparents. We are heading to a friends for Christmas with her and I will be taking Cheeseburger soup.
It's going to be a fabulous day!!
I pray God's blessings for each of you and as you celebrate I hope you remember the reason we are celebrating.
I hope you all are having a wonderful day, full of family, food and love!!
Yesterday I was involved in a baking/cooking marathon, so no time for posting. Then in a sickness marathon (but I'll save the details for a different post).
I made snickerdoodles, brownies, Turtle cookie bars, sweet corny bread, Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno's, chicken and mashed potatoes.
There will be more cooking later today after Christmas with the grandparents. We are heading to a friends for Christmas with her and I will be taking Cheeseburger soup.
It's going to be a fabulous day!!
I pray God's blessings for each of you and as you celebrate I hope you remember the reason we are celebrating.
Monday, December 22, 2008
Could someone please stop time just long enough to write a post??!?
So sorry, I thought I'd be back the next day, and well, I didn't. Between sick kids, laundry and all the Christmas-y stuff, I have been running around crazy.
I opted to do a mini rant, rather than completely jumping up on my soap box and ranting (aka rambling) for forever. I am upset that a baby doll was produced by a big company , that I frequently buy toys from, that would have a talking chip in it that says "Islam is the Light". It was created for little girls between the ages of 3-7 and made to play like a real mommy. It only says it every third time you push the belly, so most parents didn't know what the doll said. I heard one, seen one in person and I am just angry. I am not prejudice, but I don't want something my daughter might play with telling her such things. I don't hate anyone who follows Islam (if that's your choice, it's your choice, I've made my choice too), but dolls should not be selling religion. I mean, if they marketed a doll that slipped in "Jesus is the only Way", the left and ACLU would be all over Mattel like white on rice and there would be law suits and apologies and be told to keep religious sayings out of the free market. The doll shouldn't say anything religious, leaving the responsibility of raising your kids, teaching them what you want to the parents. Instead, the company, at first, claims that the doll didn't say that, that parents were under the power of suggestion. So we are all hallucinating!!! Then they came out and said that they would be replacing the chip. If it didn't say it, why are they replacing the chip!??!
So there you have it. I could go on and on, but I'll spare you. I hope the previous paragraph makes a little sense.
Anyhoo, on to cheerier things!! I decided that this week I just wanted to have fun with the kids, and try to make it fun with things not requiring electricity. Working puzzles, reading fun books, building forts and baking--baking tons-o-stuff!! We are making sugar cookies, snickerdoodles, brownies and PWs Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Thingies (these are really good, if you like spicy you will like these). I will also be making sweet potato cassarole, Sausage Balls and Cheeseburger Soup. That's just for Christmas day. We are having Christmas breakfast with my parents and then going to a friends house later in the day, that's where we'll have Cheeseburger soup. All the other stuff is for Christmas gifts-who doesn't love the gift of food-and for us to munch on. You know, so that I have 5 extra pounds to lose in 2009 (as if I didn't have enough to lose).
So that's what I will be up to, I will be posting pics throughout the rest of the week. I hope you all are having fun and enjoying your family!!
I opted to do a mini rant, rather than completely jumping up on my soap box and ranting (aka rambling) for forever. I am upset that a baby doll was produced by a big company , that I frequently buy toys from, that would have a talking chip in it that says "Islam is the Light". It was created for little girls between the ages of 3-7 and made to play like a real mommy. It only says it every third time you push the belly, so most parents didn't know what the doll said. I heard one, seen one in person and I am just angry. I am not prejudice, but I don't want something my daughter might play with telling her such things. I don't hate anyone who follows Islam (if that's your choice, it's your choice, I've made my choice too), but dolls should not be selling religion. I mean, if they marketed a doll that slipped in "Jesus is the only Way", the left and ACLU would be all over Mattel like white on rice and there would be law suits and apologies and be told to keep religious sayings out of the free market. The doll shouldn't say anything religious, leaving the responsibility of raising your kids, teaching them what you want to the parents. Instead, the company, at first, claims that the doll didn't say that, that parents were under the power of suggestion. So we are all hallucinating!!! Then they came out and said that they would be replacing the chip. If it didn't say it, why are they replacing the chip!??!
So there you have it. I could go on and on, but I'll spare you. I hope the previous paragraph makes a little sense.
Anyhoo, on to cheerier things!! I decided that this week I just wanted to have fun with the kids, and try to make it fun with things not requiring electricity. Working puzzles, reading fun books, building forts and baking--baking tons-o-stuff!! We are making sugar cookies, snickerdoodles, brownies and PWs Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Thingies (these are really good, if you like spicy you will like these). I will also be making sweet potato cassarole, Sausage Balls and Cheeseburger Soup. That's just for Christmas day. We are having Christmas breakfast with my parents and then going to a friends house later in the day, that's where we'll have Cheeseburger soup. All the other stuff is for Christmas gifts-who doesn't love the gift of food-and for us to munch on. You know, so that I have 5 extra pounds to lose in 2009 (as if I didn't have enough to lose).
So that's what I will be up to, I will be posting pics throughout the rest of the week. I hope you all are having fun and enjoying your family!!
Friday, October 17, 2008
It's Face Smearin' Good
A couple of weeks ago I made a wonderful dinner that included corn on the cob.
Samuel was very interested in the fact that the corn was not just laying on his plate to be eaten with his trusty spoon. I guess I didn't realize that Samuel had never had corn on the cob. Makiah loves it and so I thought for some change we'd have fresh corn.
At first Samuel wasn't sure what to do with the the corn, but once I showed him what to do, he gave it a whirl.
And he. loved. it.
Between every bite he told me how "wonnerful" (Sam speak) this "funny corn" is. He liked it so much that he not only ate one he ate another whole ear. It was so funny.
Oh to find joy in simple things.
I ran and grabbed the camera, for I wouldn't want all of you internets to miss this corn munchin', sloppy eatin' mess.
He was in the middle of very seriously explaining how good the corn is. Notice that its good enough to earn a spot on his cheek and nose. Now that's good people.
In case you all forgot what it looks like, Samuel is showing off this new found wonnerful food.
Here are the two corn on the cob munchers. Between the two of them they ate more than Hubs and I.
Now every time I am cooking, not just dinner, Samuel asks if we can "pwease have some funny corn?"
I hate to disappoint him, but we are not having corn on the cob with our waffles.
Samuel was very interested in the fact that the corn was not just laying on his plate to be eaten with his trusty spoon. I guess I didn't realize that Samuel had never had corn on the cob. Makiah loves it and so I thought for some change we'd have fresh corn.
At first Samuel wasn't sure what to do with the the corn, but once I showed him what to do, he gave it a whirl.
And he. loved. it.
Between every bite he told me how "wonnerful" (Sam speak) this "funny corn" is. He liked it so much that he not only ate one he ate another whole ear. It was so funny.
Oh to find joy in simple things.
I ran and grabbed the camera, for I wouldn't want all of you internets to miss this corn munchin', sloppy eatin' mess.
He was in the middle of very seriously explaining how good the corn is. Notice that its good enough to earn a spot on his cheek and nose. Now that's good people.
In case you all forgot what it looks like, Samuel is showing off this new found wonnerful food.
Here are the two corn on the cob munchers. Between the two of them they ate more than Hubs and I.
Now every time I am cooking, not just dinner, Samuel asks if we can "pwease have some funny corn?"
I hate to disappoint him, but we are not having corn on the cob with our waffles.
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Someone Help Me, I Think I'm Obsessed
I have become obsessed with cloth diapers!! I will be one of those people who buy way more than they need because I think I "just have to have that"! I don't have too many yet, but I can see myself heading there. I need someone to hold me accountable.
That or take away my debiting privileges!
I bought two bumWear online last week and when I put them on Daniel he looked bottom heavy to the max. He looked like a cute little pear and I didn't like their fit so I decided last night that I would put them on Diaperswappers and see if I could sell or trade them. I posted them and then I went browsing around.
I got a reply back in less than ten minutes telling me she wanted them. I said yes and the transaction was complete.
Oh, I have discovered the joy of paypal. Where have I been for, oh, the last five years?!?!?
I then decided I couldn't just let that money sit there, so I went shopping. I got two Blueberry's for less than the price of one! Oh the joy!! Oh the excitement!!
The search continues for more Happy Heiny's, Daniel and I really like those.
I haven't received the Fuzzi Bunz I ordered yet, but I can't wait to try those. The Thirsties AIO's mediums are a little big for him, so I think I'll wait on those.
Hubs thinks I have completely lost it, but he indulges me. What a man!!
My most recent idea is to string a clothesline across the privacy fence "walls" at the sides of our patio, so that I can line dry the cloth diapers. The complex is having a complex over this idea, but I think I'm going to anyway. If it will save a little on our energy bill, it's worth it. It will be warm for a couple more months at least.
I am also on a quest to find a way to make Apple Butter like my great-grandma Dorothy used to. It was so yummy, but she cooked it outside. What do you think the complex would think about that?? She also made the best Apricot Angelfood Cake with Apricot icing. I need to learn that too.
Also thinking of making my own baby food. I used to make some foods for my daughter when she was a baby and I am thinking of doing it again. It was a great way to save $$$, especially once she was eating meat, I would just food process whatever we were eating until is was mush and she loved it! It also helped her to like what we were eating so there was no problem in transitioning to table food.
Next I'll want to churn my own butter!! Just kidding.
Well, now that I have rambled all way from cloth diapers to cake, apple butter to baby food, I think I'll call an end to this. I have a feeling I could just keep on ramblin'.
I promise the next post will be more blog worthy, well at least more interesting than my rambling thoughts!! Maybe I'll tell you about that pirate ship Hubs is building, complete with pics!!
That or take away my debiting privileges!
I bought two bumWear online last week and when I put them on Daniel he looked bottom heavy to the max. He looked like a cute little pear and I didn't like their fit so I decided last night that I would put them on Diaperswappers and see if I could sell or trade them. I posted them and then I went browsing around.
I got a reply back in less than ten minutes telling me she wanted them. I said yes and the transaction was complete.
Oh, I have discovered the joy of paypal. Where have I been for, oh, the last five years?!?!?
I then decided I couldn't just let that money sit there, so I went shopping. I got two Blueberry's for less than the price of one! Oh the joy!! Oh the excitement!!
The search continues for more Happy Heiny's, Daniel and I really like those.
I haven't received the Fuzzi Bunz I ordered yet, but I can't wait to try those. The Thirsties AIO's mediums are a little big for him, so I think I'll wait on those.
Hubs thinks I have completely lost it, but he indulges me. What a man!!
My most recent idea is to string a clothesline across the privacy fence "walls" at the sides of our patio, so that I can line dry the cloth diapers. The complex is having a complex over this idea, but I think I'm going to anyway. If it will save a little on our energy bill, it's worth it. It will be warm for a couple more months at least.
I am also on a quest to find a way to make Apple Butter like my great-grandma Dorothy used to. It was so yummy, but she cooked it outside. What do you think the complex would think about that?? She also made the best Apricot Angelfood Cake with Apricot icing. I need to learn that too.
Also thinking of making my own baby food. I used to make some foods for my daughter when she was a baby and I am thinking of doing it again. It was a great way to save $$$, especially once she was eating meat, I would just food process whatever we were eating until is was mush and she loved it! It also helped her to like what we were eating so there was no problem in transitioning to table food.
Next I'll want to churn my own butter!! Just kidding.
Well, now that I have rambled all way from cloth diapers to cake, apple butter to baby food, I think I'll call an end to this. I have a feeling I could just keep on ramblin'.
I promise the next post will be more blog worthy, well at least more interesting than my rambling thoughts!! Maybe I'll tell you about that pirate ship Hubs is building, complete with pics!!
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