Hope everyone had a wonderful and fulfilling thanksgiving last week. And if Black Friday or Cyber Monday are your thing that you got some great deals. I did make one cyber purchase yesterday but it was an impulse buy for myself. :) I decided to get myself a pretty apron, I've been cooking a lot and when I wear the old school boxy aprons while I stay cleaner (I'm somewhat of a klutz) they don't feel comfortable nor look cute. So when I saw on a blog I read (don't remember which one) there was a deal for cyber Monday from Flirty Aprons I decided to order one, Cherry Blossom specifically. It hasn't arrived yet as I ordered it yesterday and didn't pay for fancy shipping. I'll update when it arrives.
My parents made a huge turkey on thanksgiving, like 21 pound huge for six people, six. My dad feels he can fit more stuffing inside a larger bird, while that is probably true. It leaves us all with tons and tons of turkey leftovers. Since I can now eat more solid foods, nothing crunchy or anything fried, etc. But soft, easily chewed as my extraction site is still healing. Anyways my point. I was looking through recipes online for ideas, and saw a recipe for turkey enchiladas. Well that sounded like a good idea, so I made up my own recipe, I didn't measure anything so I'll put down my guesstimates. Luckily enchiladas aren't an exact science.
Green Chili Turkey Enchiladas
made 5-6 enchiladas
5-6 tortillas (we had flour on hand)
2 cups cut up/shredded Turkey (or whatever meat)
2 heaping tablespoons light sour cream
bag(s) shredded cheese
1 can green chilis (this is a small can)
1 can green chili enchiladas sauce
Salt, pepper, to taste
What to do:
Heat over to 350.
Cut up the turkey into small pieces or shred if your patience allows. :)
Add sour cream, green chilis, and a handful of cheese, salt, pepper whatever seasonings to taste. I added a 6 pepper blend and cayenne pepper. Mix till blended and all meat is coated.
Then take a heaping spoonful of the mixture and place on a tortilla roll and place seam side down in a casserole dish.
Pour can of enchilada sauce over all rolled tortillas, bake in over uncovered 20-30 minutes till warm.
Pull enchiladas out of the over and sprinkle top with cheese, to taste but try to get decent coverage. I mixed habanero cheese and pepper jack blends for ours.
Then place under broiler for a few minutes till the cheese is bubbly and begins to brown.
Let cool for a few minutes then enjoy. :-)
Notes: I made this completely with things we had in the house on hand, we enjoy Mexican food and almost always have enchilada sauce, green chilies, so feel free to change it up to taste.
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Happy Thanksgiving!!
The pumpkin dip recipe comes from an e-book (free) that's posted here: Yourway.net it's on page 14 of the .pdf file.
On a completely random note, I had to have one of my molars extracted yesterday due to cracking the tooth. So I've been on a liquid diet the last two day, a cold liquid diet. So I've been "eating" slim fast, pudding, ice cream, and some cold cheese soup. I want warm food so badly, tomorrow I get to which will be so awesome. I'm looking forward to mashed potatoes, stuffing, and anything else that doesn't require much chewing.
Happy Thanksgiving everyone!!
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Chaos Theory
Life was going great, there was routine and consistency, so I guess I should have expected something to happen. Unfortunately I couldn't, nor would I have wanted to predict what happened next. My man and I just "celebrated" two years together (yay us), but this was downsized due to his brother passing away. His brother was 26 years old and just graduated from the motorcycle mechanic institute, and moved home. He unexpectedly passed away on November 3. So the last few weeks became a complete and utter whirlwind, life is just now going back to "normal." Obviously it's not the same, but we are making due.
Trying to get back into normal routines is taking time, the desire to do laundry wasn't great to begin with and now at times it's down right annoying. But it's getting done, slowly...because it piled up a little bit recently. Earlier this week I actually did some meal planning for the week, I picked easy dishes and spent a little more money on some convenience foods, but at least I'm attempting to cook at home again. Tonight I was adventurous and made broccoli cheddar soup, it was my first attempt at a homemade version of this, which I always crave in the cooler months. I used this recipe, and just varied the Velveeta amount till it was good, I also added some matchstick carrots, I was a little short on flour so I added some cornstarch to compensate. It came out REALLY thick but I think that's due to my man adding more cheese. I made some Pillsbury crescent rolls to go on the side (buttery flavor), as I said easy convenience foods. But it was good and filling. I didn't think to take pictures but it looked pretty standard for broccolli cheddar soup. ^.^
Hopefully I'll have happier news to report in the near future, just trying to get back into the swing of things.
Trying to get back into normal routines is taking time, the desire to do laundry wasn't great to begin with and now at times it's down right annoying. But it's getting done, slowly...because it piled up a little bit recently. Earlier this week I actually did some meal planning for the week, I picked easy dishes and spent a little more money on some convenience foods, but at least I'm attempting to cook at home again. Tonight I was adventurous and made broccoli cheddar soup, it was my first attempt at a homemade version of this, which I always crave in the cooler months. I used this recipe, and just varied the Velveeta amount till it was good, I also added some matchstick carrots, I was a little short on flour so I added some cornstarch to compensate. It came out REALLY thick but I think that's due to my man adding more cheese. I made some Pillsbury crescent rolls to go on the side (buttery flavor), as I said easy convenience foods. But it was good and filling. I didn't think to take pictures but it looked pretty standard for broccolli cheddar soup. ^.^
Hopefully I'll have happier news to report in the near future, just trying to get back into the swing of things.
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Meal planning 11.01.2010
So this was the plan, then I realized I'd planned nothing for Monday, so I switched Wednesday and Monday. :-)Monday: Hamburgers (with lean beef), and sweet potato fries
Tuesday: Crock Pot - Garlic, Garlic, Garlic Chicken (this is cooking right now and smells AMAZING)
Wednesday: Leftovers
Thursday: Garlic Chicken Pizza (recipe I'm using as a base) w/ salad
Friday: Pan Burrito with shredded lettuce
Saturday: Steamed tilapia, steamed veggies and rice (I throw everything in the rice cooker so it's easy)
Sunday: Bourbon Chicken w/ stir fry veggies over rice/noodles (decide that night)
Burgers from last night turned out good, the fries were tasty with a little spice involved so they were a hit. We just need to figure out a complimentary dipping sauce for them. ^.^
We just used some lean beef, added a little Lawry's, pepper blend and a dash of Worcestershire sauce, grilled up on the foreman grill. For more detailed pictures of the fries being made check out my picasa album.
Friday, October 29, 2010
Coupons
Okay so it was only a matter of time that I began more seriously clipping coupons and trying to obtain better deals. As many of the intelligent women's blogs I read do on a regular basis, I'm a n00b (newbie) in video game terms. But I have been reading and gotten a few good deals here and there, and been slowing cutting down our grocery bill by planning with the sales and using coupons.
I began using coupons years ago but it was a short lived phase, mostly because I didn't know what I was doing, like most consumers used the coupons to buy something new that sounded good. Not to actually save any money, unbeknown to me. So my first coupon organizer wasn't practical in many ways, probably part of the reason I didn't stick with the system initially. Because it wasn't really a system, it was an attempt. I was young and living in an area with no double coupons made it less intriguing.
Fast forward to now, I had an accordion style organizer for awhile, but it was getting to cramped and I was "missing" things since I couldn't find them inside. Even if I pulled everything I needed before shopping, and kept the rest in my purse. I was frustrated. So I decided to take the plunge and make a binder, when I first saw these binders people created for coupons I was amazed in some ways. And didn't think I'd want to take a binder out in public (which I have yet to do). But so far I'm happy with the organization and ability to find things.
So I created a binder after reading about a few different people's variations. I went to Target not wanting to spend much money, but realized the importance of a zippered binder being a klutz. This was the only one on the shelf as it's not back to school time, but I think it is a perfect fit. The front has a mesh pocket that's fairly roomy, I put my cell phone in there and my keys just to test it out.
The other cool feature is the built in file pockets, there are 4 pockets with dividers on the front of the binder. I've been keeping unclipped coupons and store advertisements in here so far. This is secured by that elastic string and circle on the front of the binder.
When you open the binder there are a lot of "built ins" on the left side. Two card holders, a small zippered mesh pocket (with pennies for the picture), two pen holders, a larger zippered pocket, and an old school cell phone holder (that I placed a small fold up reusable bag). That area makes it easier to keep things together and maybe in the future use a pencil pouch for loose coupons.
It's organized with dividers, the sections are Food, Health, Home, Store Specific, and Restaurants. I bought baseball card holders to hold the coupons, folding when necessary. Within the large sections the coupons are organized alphabetically, the other sections are less than one page each but I will alphabetize those should the need arise. In the back I have a folder to place over sized ad's or other items.
The rest of the pictures can be found on my picasa album. I'll update how this goes in terms of saving $$$ and time. ^.^
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| Coupon organizer evolution |
I began using coupons years ago but it was a short lived phase, mostly because I didn't know what I was doing, like most consumers used the coupons to buy something new that sounded good. Not to actually save any money, unbeknown to me. So my first coupon organizer wasn't practical in many ways, probably part of the reason I didn't stick with the system initially. Because it wasn't really a system, it was an attempt. I was young and living in an area with no double coupons made it less intriguing.
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| Binder with roomy front pocket |
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| File Folders |
The other cool feature is the built in file pockets, there are 4 pockets with dividers on the front of the binder. I've been keeping unclipped coupons and store advertisements in here so far. This is secured by that elastic string and circle on the front of the binder.
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| Inside the binder |
It's organized with dividers, the sections are Food, Health, Home, Store Specific, and Restaurants. I bought baseball card holders to hold the coupons, folding when necessary. Within the large sections the coupons are organized alphabetically, the other sections are less than one page each but I will alphabetize those should the need arise. In the back I have a folder to place over sized ad's or other items.
The rest of the pictures can be found on my picasa album. I'll update how this goes in terms of saving $$$ and time. ^.^
Monday, October 25, 2010
Crock pot chili
So I made some chili the other day, as planned. I didn't quite realize, or well think about the fact that 6 quarts is a gallon and a half of anything. So in the end I created 1/5 gallons of yummy chili...that consisted of 3.5 lbs of beef. :-)
I read some basic recopies to remind myself of ratios and get an idea of quantity for the crock pot, as I'd never attempted chili in the crock pot.
Crock Pot Chili
Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef
2.5 lbs stew meat
1 can diced tomatoes
2 cans spicy V-8
1 can chili beans
1 can red kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
1 medium onion chopped
2-3 cloves garlic chopped/minced (depending on taste)
1/4 cup chopped jalapeños (to taste)
ground cumin
chili powder
cayenne pepper
oregano
salt
pepper
hot sauce
Directions:
First, I chopped all things that needed to be chopped or diced. Then I put some mined garlic paste (jalapeño* liquid from jar) in a pan and turned on the heat, then I added the ground beef. Began to brown beef, and added stew meat. After all meat was in pan I added the onions and some of the garlic I had chopped reserving some to go straight into the Crockpot (we like garlic).
While meat was browning I added the canned tomatoes, V-8, and beans to crock pot and stirred together.
Once the meat was browned on the outside, I drained the fat and added it to the crock pot. Mixed all items together then added all the seasonings. I knew basic measurements and just eyeballed everything, so I can't post the amounts that I put into the crock pot. The hot sauce I used was called After Death and I only added 3-4 drops, that was enough. But we like things super spicy most of the time.
Then turned the Crockpot onto low for 7-8 hours, I stirred it a few times throughout the day, just to insure no meat dried out from stick out at the top. It was a little soupy in the end, but for leftovers I added a table spoon of cornstarch (mixed with water) and that thickened it up really well and made it a more traditional chili consistency.
*Whenever we brown beef we typically add some jalapeño liquid from the jar and a 6 pepper blend to add some flavor to the meat, no matter what dish we are creating.
I read some basic recopies to remind myself of ratios and get an idea of quantity for the crock pot, as I'd never attempted chili in the crock pot.
Crock Pot Chili
Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef
2.5 lbs stew meat
1 can diced tomatoes
2 cans spicy V-8
1 can chili beans
1 can red kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
1 medium onion chopped
2-3 cloves garlic chopped/minced (depending on taste)
1/4 cup chopped jalapeños (to taste)
ground cumin
chili powder
cayenne pepper
oregano
salt
pepper
hot sauce
Directions:
First, I chopped all things that needed to be chopped or diced. Then I put some mined garlic paste (jalapeño* liquid from jar) in a pan and turned on the heat, then I added the ground beef. Began to brown beef, and added stew meat. After all meat was in pan I added the onions and some of the garlic I had chopped reserving some to go straight into the Crockpot (we like garlic).
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| Served with a few Fritos and Cheddar on top |
Once the meat was browned on the outside, I drained the fat and added it to the crock pot. Mixed all items together then added all the seasonings. I knew basic measurements and just eyeballed everything, so I can't post the amounts that I put into the crock pot. The hot sauce I used was called After Death and I only added 3-4 drops, that was enough. But we like things super spicy most of the time.
Then turned the Crockpot onto low for 7-8 hours, I stirred it a few times throughout the day, just to insure no meat dried out from stick out at the top. It was a little soupy in the end, but for leftovers I added a table spoon of cornstarch (mixed with water) and that thickened it up really well and made it a more traditional chili consistency.
*Whenever we brown beef we typically add some jalapeño liquid from the jar and a 6 pepper blend to add some flavor to the meat, no matter what dish we are creating.
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
When menu planning doesn't happen...
Okay so I slacked this week, last week we never made the meatloaf or tilapia (if you haven't figure it out the fish is frozen). I mentioned on Monday I could make the meatloaf, but I was easily swayed into venturing out. So we went out on Monday, Tuesday I went impulse grocery shopping with my mom. She needed a few things so I went with her, as we'd been out shopping most of the day. In the end I picked up a few things I knew we needed and a few things we did not. Impulse shopping is too easy sometimes. So Tuesday night's dinner was a store made quiche which are really tasty and something I have not attempted to make myself, yet. Tonight was hamburger helper, because it was easy and here.
Recap:
The plan for the rest of the week:
Recap:
- Monday - Fast Food
- Tuesday - HEB Jalapeno and Cheese quiche
- Wednesday - Cheeseburger Macaroni Hamburger Helper
The plan for the rest of the week:
- Thursday - Chili - probably in the crockpot, haven't decided
- Friday - Dinner with my Mom
- Saturday - we'll have company, so it's kinda up in the air, possible going out might make something. Going to leave it up in the air
- Sunday - leftovers or something simple
Sunday, October 17, 2010
BBQ Chicken Pizza
We used Pillsbury ready crust we used the classic tonight which was as easy to use as expected. It puffed up good too, but I spread it out decently thin. Next time we'll try the thin crust.
Then just tossed some BBQ sauce on there, a little garlic powder on the crust, chopped onion, shredded cheese, chicken tossed in BBQ sauce, and more cheese. We put jalapeños on half the pizza for my man.
The shredded cheese we used is Kraft with a little Philadelphia to help it melt better, and I must say the cheese was super melty and ooey gooey too. So I say grab some if you like your Kraft products.
Freebies
Okay what's better than getting something for free, well there are a lot of things. But it's still pretty awesome when trying to be budget conscious and save money. So I've been reading some money saving blogs for tips and tricks. I came across some freebie opportunities also, and have already received some things in the mail.
So first I had a small box (the Que Rica Vida is the box) which is from that magazine. Lucky for me living in San Antonio translating the Spanish form wasn't too difficult. What I received in the mail was a full size box of Hamburger helper, and the two small boxes of cereal pictured.
The second "free" thing I received is this coupon booklet from P&G which I believe is still available to request. Lots of coupons if you use Proctor and Gamble products.
So first I had a small box (the Que Rica Vida is the box) which is from that magazine. Lucky for me living in San Antonio translating the Spanish form wasn't too difficult. What I received in the mail was a full size box of Hamburger helper, and the two small boxes of cereal pictured.
Sweet and Spicy
Okay crock pot cooking has many, many advantages. Such as the obvious "fix and forget" mentality. Something I need to pay closer attention to though is the amount of prep that is involved prior to putting it all in the pot and forgetting about it, but we live and learn.
Fortunately for me this time at least, all the "extra" hard work was well worth it, I made some Sweet Spicy ribs and beans, as I saw ribs were on sale at HEB last week. To say these were a small hit would be lying, these went over huge.
Some of our neighbors were having a bbq outside and invited us to join, and I felt even less intrusive being able to offer some of our ribs. Luckily for me as I made 5lbs of ribs in the crockpot, and it's just me and my man here typically I was more than happy to share.
These were a huge hit, the meat fell right off the bone, and I must say my neighbors homemade potato salad was awesome too. They were also BBQing chicken, sausage and steaks, so just tons of food.
I now have to pass the recipe along to both households, but I don't mind sharing my find from food.com with them as they were awesome. I followed the recipe exactly, cooking on low for 9-10 hours except added a lot more hot sauce than the 1 teaspoon called for, and we here in San Antonio feel that next time I should add more, but that's our taste. ^.^
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| Some of the finished ribs |
Fortunately for me this time at least, all the "extra" hard work was well worth it, I made some Sweet Spicy ribs and beans, as I saw ribs were on sale at HEB last week. To say these were a small hit would be lying, these went over huge.
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| Pinto Beans w/ onions cooked with ribs |
These were a huge hit, the meat fell right off the bone, and I must say my neighbors homemade potato salad was awesome too. They were also BBQing chicken, sausage and steaks, so just tons of food.
I now have to pass the recipe along to both households, but I don't mind sharing my find from food.com with them as they were awesome. I followed the recipe exactly, cooking on low for 9-10 hours except added a lot more hot sauce than the 1 teaspoon called for, and we here in San Antonio feel that next time I should add more, but that's our taste. ^.^
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Taco Lasagna
Okay so making my first lasagna, although it was a Taco Fiesta Chicken variation was a little more time consuming that I initially expected. Granted I was watching TV during portions of the prep work, and I started pretty late at night as we didn't get home till about 9pm after our class (Dave Ramsey's FPU).
So I gathered up most of the ingredients, and I believe next time I make this or another lasagna that it will go much faster. I say next time because my man really enjoyed it, I thought it was tasty too. I did use Spicy refried beans, and Hot rotel (which contains habanero peppers) so it was a little spicy. But we live in San Antonio, Texas so our taste buds are a little different.
I didn't take pictures of assembly as I was trying to keep up with it all in our itty bitty kitchen. I think that was my biggest issue was finding a place to put things during the process. But I made due and hopefully sooner than later we'll have a place with a bigger kitchen. But until then, we have what we have. ^.^
Definitely will make this again as I said it was a huge hit with the man, and our friend that was over. Good food, and good friends.
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| some ingredients |
I didn't take pictures of assembly as I was trying to keep up with it all in our itty bitty kitchen. I think that was my biggest issue was finding a place to put things during the process. But I made due and hopefully sooner than later we'll have a place with a bigger kitchen. But until then, we have what we have. ^.^
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| Fresh out of the oven |
Definitely will make this again as I said it was a huge hit with the man, and our friend that was over. Good food, and good friends.
Monday, October 11, 2010
Bourbon Chicken, hold the Bourbon
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| Chicken after step 1, and rice cooker |
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| Add the chicken to the sauce |
I took pictures during the process but forgot to take a picture of the food plated. We had company, so I was feeding four hungry gentleman. Whom all cleaned their plates I might add. ^.^
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| Veggies, chicken simmering away |
I'm going to take this opportunity to talk about one of my most favorite pans in my kitchen. This was part of the bigger Calphalon Contemporary cookset I received years ago as a gift. But this is the pan I use more than any other. It's larger pan but a cross between a frying pan and a sauce pan which is what makes it so awesome. This is also the pan featured most in my posts I've realized here recently.
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| All that remained |
Meal planning 10.11.2010
I'm feel adventurous this week, as I'm trying something new almost every night. Now these are not necessarily tough recipes or things that seems more labor intense. I just tried to shop the sales a little more, and get a good variation. Now some night were probably going out to dinner with my Mom, but not sure which night so I planned something for every night, and might move the crock pot meal or the make the night before lasagna accordingly.
Mon: Bourbon chicken with noodles OR rice (probably will throw in some stir fry veggies too)
Tue: Beef Flank Steak pinwheel filled with spinach, bacon and Parmesan cheese spread (HEB store bought) and salad
Wed: Taco Fiesta Chicken lasagna (I know I'm going to omit the cilantro, because we don't care for it)
Thurs: Sweet Spicy ribs and beans (crock pot) with rice
Fri: Garlic Chicken pizza (no tomatoes will be on mine)
Sat: Meatloaf (ground turkey/beef combo) with twice baked potatoes
Sun: Asian grilled tilapia with salad, maybe some rice or Asian noodles
I'll try to take pictures and post reviews of the recipes that I try this week, the meatloaf will by my own recipe I just make it without much thought at this point. So I'll try and pay attention and write things down, I alter it in minor ways each time too.
This post is linked to: http://orgjunkie.com/2010/10/menu-plan-monday-oct-11th.html
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Shepard's Pie - recipe from my friend
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| Shepard's Pie out of the oven |
So I read this recipe my friend posted online, it sounded good and easy to prepare. My boyfriend originally compared it to a KFC mashed potato bowl. We followed her recipe to the letter except we used a combo cheese as it was what we had on hand, and I accidentally purchased home style instead of brown gravy. All the same it was good, and we've enjoyed eating on the leftovers too.
Here's a link to the recipe and my friends blog: http://fieldsofwildflowers-saleta.blogspot.com/2010/09/shepherds-pie.html
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| Ready to eat with salad |
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Pan Burritos
Pan burritos, this recipe sounded easy and like it might eliminate a few trips to Las Palapas or Taco Cabana. I think I was right.
So basically it's like a lasagna with tortillas, refried beans, enchilada sauce, cheese, and beef. There are many ways this could be customized and altered to fill tastes. I didn't like the beans I used but it wasn't the brand I normally buy but otherwise no complaints.
I put some salsa ranch on top which just enhanced the flavor, with a little guacamole too. On the side I had a lettuce salad.
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| Day after, the layers are visible |
I put some salsa ranch on top which just enhanced the flavor, with a little guacamole too. On the side I had a lettuce salad.
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| Before going into the oven |
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| Right out of the oven, after serving |
Meal planning
Due to an impromptu camping trip last week a few things were moved again. I think I realized why I got frustrated with menu planning previously. Anyways, I also thought is share my version of a menu I keep in my kitchen.
I originally saw something similar online somewhere using a picture frame. This is just a page protector that's smooth. :) I changed the menu a bit after I took this picture. But I keep this posted on the fridge to remind me of my plan and to let my Man know what the plan is, sometimes things might change around still but I'm working on trying to maintain the schedule.
I must say that the crock pot pork currently cooking smells AMAZING, it's been in there a few hours now but the aroma is intoxicating. ^.^
So this week:
Mon: Jambalaya (Zatarain's mix, with ground chicken and beef/ cheddar sausage)
Tue: Crock Pot pork (sauce I put in with pork; I used 1/2 c. crushed pineapple, and added a dash of Worcestershire sauce and dash of teriyaki to the mix) sandwiches
Wed: Shepard's Pie (I will make this, this week)
Thurs: Grilled Tilapia
Fri: Simple something
Sat: out, maybe?
Sun: Leftovers
I originally saw something similar online somewhere using a picture frame. This is just a page protector that's smooth. :) I changed the menu a bit after I took this picture. But I keep this posted on the fridge to remind me of my plan and to let my Man know what the plan is, sometimes things might change around still but I'm working on trying to maintain the schedule.
I must say that the crock pot pork currently cooking smells AMAZING, it's been in there a few hours now but the aroma is intoxicating. ^.^
So this week:
Mon: Jambalaya (Zatarain's mix, with ground chicken and beef/ cheddar sausage)
Tue: Crock Pot pork (sauce I put in with pork; I used 1/2 c. crushed pineapple, and added a dash of Worcestershire sauce and dash of teriyaki to the mix) sandwiches
Wed: Shepard's Pie (I will make this, this week)
Thurs: Grilled Tilapia
Fri: Simple something
Sat: out, maybe?
Sun: Leftovers
Monday, September 27, 2010
Meal Planning Monday
So last week we didn't get to everything I had planned, which is good and bad I guess. We had company and people arrive that I hadn't prepared for so it was easier to go out one night. Another night I ended up making some hamburger helper as it was easier, etc. So here are the carry overs with a few new things thrown in, as it requires less prep on my part for things already in the house. (~.^)
So again in no specific order:
Grilled Steak w/ mashed potatoes and salad
Pan Burritos w/ rice and salad
Shepard's Pie (have the extra potatoes now)
Leftovers
Simple Something (aka probably going out)
Pulled Pork sandwiches (crock pot) w/ salad
Domestic goodness
Today I decided to make Chicken Parmesan, something relatively common and simple. I looked up a few recipes and more or less followed this one.
I also made a spaghetti squash (with some butter and Parmesan cheese) along with some whole wheat noodles. I just used some Ragu sauce we had on hand.
But both my brother and man seemed to very much enjoy it, devouring it quickly without much talking. ^.^
Sorry I didn't get to take pictures before, but I did take a few of the leftover's. The chicken breasts I had were huge so even though I only made two cutting them in half was more than enough for the three of us.
The chicken turned out juicy and moist not over done or rubbery at all. I also used low fat Italian blend of cheese to melt on top. And omitted almost all butter from recipe, I also changed pans so the oil I used wasn't infused into the sauce, I also used Crisco Canola oil with Omega-3 DHA. More cleaning but saving on some calories. Will probably make this one again.
But both my brother and man seemed to very much enjoy it, devouring it quickly without much talking. ^.^
Sorry I didn't get to take pictures before, but I did take a few of the leftover's. The chicken breasts I had were huge so even though I only made two cutting them in half was more than enough for the three of us.
The chicken turned out juicy and moist not over done or rubbery at all. I also used low fat Italian blend of cheese to melt on top. And omitted almost all butter from recipe, I also changed pans so the oil I used wasn't infused into the sauce, I also used Crisco Canola oil with Omega-3 DHA. More cleaning but saving on some calories. Will probably make this one again.
Saturday, September 25, 2010
Cooking
I've been baking and cooking a lot today. It's been fun, it was broken up by an episode of Mad Men or two with my man.
Made bacon cheddar muffins earlier today they came out pretty good, the bacon isn't overwhelming. I used fat free cheddar cheese. It could be healthier if turkey bacon was used instead of regular. :-) But these are for the boyfriend more than me.
I peeled a bunch of potatoes, boiling them now. Going to mash them pretty plain then portion out into 2 servings, to flavor accordingly later; also save some for a Shepard's pie.
I'm most excited about the crab stuffed tilapia and reading the comments got the idea to use extra stuffing inside some mushrooms. Yummy!!
Made bacon cheddar muffins earlier today they came out pretty good, the bacon isn't overwhelming. I used fat free cheddar cheese. It could be healthier if turkey bacon was used instead of regular. :-) But these are for the boyfriend more than me.
I peeled a bunch of potatoes, boiling them now. Going to mash them pretty plain then portion out into 2 servings, to flavor accordingly later; also save some for a Shepard's pie.
Monday, September 20, 2010
Meal Planning Monday
Trying to stick to menu planning, but even if I don't stick with it exactly someone else might enjoy some of the ideas. ^.^ I'm trying to incorporate some new recipes into our lives, so this is also to help with that. Ideally there will be one new recipe a week, maybe two. Just depends on what's going on in our lives. I'm lucky right now to have some extra time to experiment in the kitchen and an understanding not too picky eating boyfriend.
I have 6 days planned, I have most of these things on hand already just need to get a few small things to complete one or two recipes.
In no particular order:
Stuffed Tilapia w/ crab stuffed mushrooms
Grilled Steak w/ mashed potatoes and salad
Pan Burritos w/ rice and salad
Chicken Parmesan w/ pasta and spaghetti squash
Shepard's Pie (plan on making extra mashed potatoes for this when I make the steaks)
Leftovers
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Home organization and things...
While looking for flylady apps on Android I found things I figured I would share, as that is the purpose of the internet. I was looking for apps partly to try and create my own based upon other variations floating around out there. But surprise, surprise got sidetracked. Anyways, here are websites I found listing what most call FlyLady alternatives.
http://flyingwithsmilegilrsmilechiccorner.blogspot.com/ - blog of Flybaby
http://www.chorewars.com/index.php - make chores into an RPG (role playing game)
http://www.habithacker.com/start-here/ - alt system
http://unclutterer.com/discuss/topic/flylady-alternative - whole discussion on FlyLady and variations.
http://messies.com/ - another system
Well anyways, just sharing not sure if I'll change to another system at this point. But thought it was interesting how many variations are available and how many apps are on the iPhone verses android. :\
http://flyingwithsmilegilrsmilechiccorner.blogspot.com/ - blog of Flybaby
http://www.chorewars.com/index.php - make chores into an RPG (role playing game)
http://www.habithacker.com/start-here/ - alt system
http://unclutterer.com/discuss/topic/flylady-alternative - whole discussion on FlyLady and variations.
http://messies.com/ - another system
Well anyways, just sharing not sure if I'll change to another system at this point. But thought it was interesting how many variations are available and how many apps are on the iPhone verses android. :\
Sunday, August 1, 2010
Stickies
So the next step in the babystep world is placing sticky note reminders around in specific areas of the house (bathroom and kitchen). I put sticky notes on my computer desktop (digital versions) and one of my phone's home screens. Not quite the same thing but similar, I have been maintaining things thus far without jumping ahead, so that's good. I need to tackle the laundry tomorrow, but otherwise it will be a day of "renewing my spirit." ^.^
Saturday, July 31, 2010
One Bite at a Time by The FlyLady, Marla Cilley
Finally Loving Yourself / Blog Archive / One Bite at a Time by The FlyLady, Marla Cilley
Nice overview of FlyLady system, written by her of course. ^.^
Rinse and repeat...or something like that
So step 3 in Flylady's baby steps is to repeat what we've already done. I've done this mostly for the last few days, as I mentioned in a previous post about getting dressed and fluctuating schedule makes getting dressed for the day almost impossible. Rarely do I wear one outfit all day, many days there are 3 changes of clothes (work, exercise, and home). Luckily my BF is pretty much one outfit a day currently at most two, thus his laundry load is less. Although mount washmore is piling up pretty high currently. If I wake up early enough before work tomorrow I will start a load of laundry (one of FlyLady's later routines, a load a day keeps mount washmore away or something along those lines). I work tomorrow so I'll get up and dressed in work clothes which are not conducive to homemaking. But I change when I get home, because wearing a dress all day (summer in Texas) isn't practical usually.
So I have completed step 3, in one form or another. Not always the lace up shoes but getting dressed with the makeup and all that. I will try to perfect the whole wearing shoes in the house, I'm a flip flop kinda girl in the summer, but I do understand and respect the principal of this important step. So I will continue to keep some lace up shoes on when I'm home and not going to work. ^.^
So I have completed step 3, in one form or another. Not always the lace up shoes but getting dressed with the makeup and all that. I will try to perfect the whole wearing shoes in the house, I'm a flip flop kinda girl in the summer, but I do understand and respect the principal of this important step. So I will continue to keep some lace up shoes on when I'm home and not going to work. ^.^
Monday, July 26, 2010
Babystep numero dos
Okay so I haven't updated, why you wonder. Well because I haven't really completed babystep #2 yet which is "getting dressed to your shoes" in the morning. This is a slight issue for me, and I'm sure this is just me making excuses to an extent but oh well it's my blog I'll whine if I want too. ~.^
So I have 3 different activities that occur when I wake up, I either go to the gym, go to work, or have a morning off. When multiple of these activities occur it throws my routines off. Tomorrow for example I go to work in the morning, but there are many days where I wake up, have a few hours at home then go to work and sometimes go to workout after, thus requiring up to 3 outfits in one day (yes laundry is a large issue at my house, for me at least).
So getting dressed to my lace up shoes when I go to work and typically wear heals isn't an option always. Thus fulfilling this babystep I guess I will have to accept getting fully dressed and not wandering around in pj's.
Monday - the previous text was written last night, I didn't get around to posting/proof reading yet. But I am happy to report that this AM I got up and got dressed to shoes...they aren't lace up shoes but they are shoes. I put on flats with my dress to get things done around the house. I also had the motivation to get dressed as I realized my package from Amazon was delivered on Saturday. So I wanted to go to the mailbox too. But I returned and put the clean dishes away, made breakfast and had time to play with my new stuff. I still have a few things to accomplish before leaving for work, but I even have time to finish up this blog entry. So I'm feeling pretty good this morning.
So I have 3 different activities that occur when I wake up, I either go to the gym, go to work, or have a morning off. When multiple of these activities occur it throws my routines off. Tomorrow for example I go to work in the morning, but there are many days where I wake up, have a few hours at home then go to work and sometimes go to workout after, thus requiring up to 3 outfits in one day (yes laundry is a large issue at my house, for me at least).
So getting dressed to my lace up shoes when I go to work and typically wear heals isn't an option always. Thus fulfilling this babystep I guess I will have to accept getting fully dressed and not wandering around in pj's.
Monday - the previous text was written last night, I didn't get around to posting/proof reading yet. But I am happy to report that this AM I got up and got dressed to shoes...they aren't lace up shoes but they are shoes. I put on flats with my dress to get things done around the house. I also had the motivation to get dressed as I realized my package from Amazon was delivered on Saturday. So I wanted to go to the mailbox too. But I returned and put the clean dishes away, made breakfast and had time to play with my new stuff. I still have a few things to accomplish before leaving for work, but I even have time to finish up this blog entry. So I'm feeling pretty good this morning.
Monday, July 19, 2010
My sink is shiny ^_^
So I spent some time last night shining my sink, Flylady's first babystep. So it's complete, now being honest I did not soak the sink in the bleach water for an hour on each side, but I had cleaned it with a bleach infused chemical earlier yesterday. So I used comet, brillo scrubber, and windex to accomplish the shine. As you can see in the picture my kitchen is on the small side, it's pretty freaking tiny actually. I will post a picture of the other side which consists of the stove, microwave and fridge. Leaving an extremely small amount of counter space. The sink side is all the counter space, which as you can see holds the toaster over and foreman grill. I would like to point out the little flylady cling that lives in the kitchen to remind me to keep that sink clean. Also my rubba scrubba and weekly dishtowels (which I don't see on her shop anymore), I mentioned I wasn't new to this whole thing. ^.~ I actually have the entire rubba series, but I'm sure I'll talk about those later. My favorite is the rubba sweepa, seriously. But I got the cling in the box when I ordered the rubba series and dish towels so that was a happy surprise a few months back during my last attempt. I will say everything shipped quickly, and I was excited to "play" with my new toys. My boyfriend has found multiple uses for the rubba scrubba too, so it's not just my toy.
So mission accomplished. Babystep 2 is getting dressed to the shoes, well it's a little late for that one today. But tomorrow is another day, and I'm not suppose to jump ahead as I have so many times in the past. It doesn't work when you do multiple babysteps in one day. Now I need to go work on the clutter for 15 min and get through some of that weekly home blessing. ^.^
Sunday, July 18, 2010
Another attempt at FlyLady
So over the years I've done FlyLady and it's worked, but I haven't stuck with it consistently and thus fall back into living in CHAOS (can't have anyone over syndrome). Inspired by Fly Lady Flunky I am going to try and blog about accomplishments with the baby steps and Fly Lady system. I'm not going to get to detailed into the system here, as there are multiple websites and books to read that information from the sources. I've already included some links here. And will probably continue to do so. This blog isn't dedicated to just fly lady either as it's title implies. I use it to ramble and babble about other things, although I have a feeling the current focus will be on homemaking.
My biggest headache is clutter, and laundry...go figure. Anyways, I've been maintaining some of my FlyLady habits for awhile now, mostly keeping dishes out of the sink and making the bed when it's not still occupied. So tonight I will restart officially with babystep 1. Which is shining the sink, my sink is currently clean but I will tonight make sure to give it a good scrub again.
I am ahead of the "game" in some ways, as I have a control journal that's partially completed. I even have to do lists and reminders programed into my Android phone. Although there isn't an app specifically helpful as there is one for the iphone. I'm looking forward to being able to use the App Inventor for Android by Google, once I get an invitation. So hopefully I can create a personalized app, because seriously who doesn't have their phone with them most of the time. So it's my lifeline.
Part of the reason I've gotten out of the habit of the "system" is that I work pretty scattered hours, and it changes. I'm a brain trainer and so I work one-on-one with students (of all ages), but that means that sometimes I work 3 days a week to 6 days, for random hours throughout the day. Thus making routine harder to accomplish. But I'm going to do my best to maintain this, and start out slow as I like so many others tend to jump into things and get overwhelmed. There are babysteps for a reason and as FlyLady likes to remind all her flybabies "You are not behind! I don't want you to try to catch up; I just want you to jump in where we are. O.K.?"
My biggest headache is clutter, and laundry...go figure. Anyways, I've been maintaining some of my FlyLady habits for awhile now, mostly keeping dishes out of the sink and making the bed when it's not still occupied. So tonight I will restart officially with babystep 1. Which is shining the sink, my sink is currently clean but I will tonight make sure to give it a good scrub again.
I am ahead of the "game" in some ways, as I have a control journal that's partially completed. I even have to do lists and reminders programed into my Android phone. Although there isn't an app specifically helpful as there is one for the iphone. I'm looking forward to being able to use the App Inventor for Android by Google, once I get an invitation. So hopefully I can create a personalized app, because seriously who doesn't have their phone with them most of the time. So it's my lifeline.
Part of the reason I've gotten out of the habit of the "system" is that I work pretty scattered hours, and it changes. I'm a brain trainer and so I work one-on-one with students (of all ages), but that means that sometimes I work 3 days a week to 6 days, for random hours throughout the day. Thus making routine harder to accomplish. But I'm going to do my best to maintain this, and start out slow as I like so many others tend to jump into things and get overwhelmed. There are babysteps for a reason and as FlyLady likes to remind all her flybabies "You are not behind! I don't want you to try to catch up; I just want you to jump in where we are. O.K.?"
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Clutter
I'm a pack rat, I accept this at this point. I've spent years collecting this or that, nothing specific. But collecting all the same. I am letting go of stuff, it's not always fun but typically feels good after it's gone. To charity, in the trash, or whatever depending upon what it was to being with. I like certain things, I like journals, I have a few that are completely untouched. Why because I liked the front or wanted to save them for some special occasion to start journaling in that journal for, so I either ned to use them or give them to someone that will. Shoes, purses/bags, clothes, knick knacks, etc...I have more than I'll even need. I give stuff away but just always seem to have more than is necessary. I'm happy when on vacation or staying somewhere for awhile when living out of a suitcase, it's nice to feel that freedom of not having to make decisions. Granted I'm an over packer when I travel, but that's an entirely different rant.
I am trying to change, I am trying to make less stuff in my house, because it makes me happy when I have enough room in my closets for all my clothes, when shoes aren't over pouring our of closets, baskets, etc. But I don't always let go as I "see" a use for shoes I haven't worn in 5 years. Those are so in fashion...@_@ (eye roll). I am going to change, I will live in a less clutter life, because it will make me happy. It will help me feel better...I currently use FlyLady.net to help me in this process. I've used it before and it worked, I just have to follow the guidelines and make them my own. I have the time, right now. To organize my life and spend time de-cluttering an organizing years of stuff.
Yep that's my plan, it's been working for awhile. ^.^
Saturday, April 3, 2010
Randomness
Internet and social networking - there are basically two types of people, and yes this is grossly generalized. There are the active people and the lurkers. Active people post, and are visibly active on social sites. Lurkers are the rest, well those that actually log on and just read things to keep up with what's going on without making their presence known. They don't comment, or post status updates to their own profiles often. But might be checking frequently, there's honestly no way to know. ahh random thoughts.
MW2 and males - this game is interesting. I've played a small amount, I've watched a lot. Giving pre-pubescent males a microphone and an outlet to "kill" people is an interesting dynamic. How they act with said microphone is almost always interesting. How they try to exhibit their masculinity through the many times limited vocabulary is amusing and many times sad.
Yea that's basically the end of my current thoughts that feel like sharing. These are random and not meant to be offensive. ^.^
Saturday, February 6, 2010
Brain Training
So I've been going through training to become a "brain trainer." It's getting to play brain teasers and mind benders with other people, mostly kids and getting paid. If I pass the rest of the certification process, it's onsite training for the facility. To help improve me for the job I was told to play certain games at home, such as tetris, bejeweled, DDR, etc. It's a pretty cool gig. Now to study the procedures and materials to make sure I ace the practical exam and written portions.
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