The Cozy Country Home

Meals to Bring a New Mom: A Recipe Swap

2010-10-28T14:07:00.002-04:00

Today at Ultimate Recipe Swap FishMama is sharing some meals to bring to a new mom. When I had my babies, I didn't happen to get any meals delivered to me once I came home (I really wish I had!). So I know how much of a blessing it would be to bring over some meals to families experiencing life in "survival mode" and bringing home a new baby.
Here are some of my favorites to share, not just in celebration of a new baby, but in the case of someone having surgery, going through a rough time, or just helping out someone in need! We even made meals, froze them, and gave them as gifts! Who wouldn't love the gift of a prepared meal??!!

These meals are meals-in-a-bag (Think Skillet Sensations, etc.), though much tastier and healthier! (without all that sodium!!)

Creamy Italian Pasta with Chicken (meal in a bag)
Rigatoni with Sausage and Peppers (meal in a bag)
Cheeseburger Pasta (meal in a bag)

Diners, Drive-In's, and Dives Inspired "Italian Stew"

2010-10-20T11:54:00.007-04:00

A few weeks ago my fridge went. I mean, just up and stopped working. My 9 year old, full-of-food fridge and freezer. I monitored the temperature with my thermometer my mother bought for all of us sisters, since the same thing happened to her "still under warranty" fridge. It didn't pay for us to invest almost $600 in repairs to our almost decade-old model, so I got a great deal on a new one. (Paid for in cash!) But by the time it would be delivered, it would be day three of no power to my fridge. So I had to act fast and save what I could. Who wouldn't get creative and use up all that food?!
I made a run to my sisters and stocked what I could fit in her extra fridge in her garage, and stored what I could in my deep freezer. I had to use-or-lose the rest.
So looking at my options, I vaguely remembered a dish I saw prepared on Diners, Drive-In's, and Dives. Not sure if it was close, but this is what I came up with. And boy, was it delicious:

Chicken Pisano
Sausage, Potatoes, Chicken, and Brown Gravy
(like an Italian stew)

3 Sweet Italian Sausage Links cut in thick slices
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut in bite-sized pieces
red and green pepper strips
4 T. Butter
Flour
Oregano
Pepper
Can of whole potatoes or cut-up chunks of raw potatoes
AuJus or Beef Stock

Melt some butter in a pan. Pop in some thick cut slices of sausage (sweet italian). Add in cut up pieces of chicken breast and let grill up. Add in some oregano and pepper. There will be some oil in the pan from the butter and the sausage, so add some flour to make a roux. Add in some AuJus or Beef stock (what I used) to make a gravy. Add in some chunks of potatoes, or cut can of whole white potatoes in quarters and add in. Turn down heat and let simmer and cook. Brown gravy will become thick. Cook until potatoes are tender and meat is cooked through.

Getting creative in a pinch Works for Me!!

As an added note: I have since found the actual recipe and episode. The dish is called Chicken Pisano. My memory didn't fail me much...my rendition was close!!

Soups for the Soul

2010-10-07T20:19:00.007-04:00

Fishmama's Ultimate Recipe Swap calls for favorite soup recipes...
So here's what I'm sharing over there today:
Creamy Turkey and Wild Rice Soup
Chicken Noodle Soup
Low fat Tomato "Chili" (can be a freezer meal) A favorite of Coach's!

Photo credit

Halloween Monster Munch

2010-09-21T12:45:00.008-04:00

Here is a quick snack I surprised my kids with before our football game the other day. I even made some extra to send off in a care package to Minnesota to one of our players who is in his freshman year out there playing football.
All of their favorites: pretzels, M&M's, Halloween Oreos, and candy corn all wrapped in white chocolate! Yum!

Ingredients:
Package of white chocolate melting chips or lb. of white chocolate almond bark
Crumbled oreos
Crumbled pretzels
M&M's
Candy corn
Halloween Sprinkles

Directions:
1. Melt white chocolate in microwave according to package directions. While chocolate is melting, line baking sheet with parchment or waxed paper or no stick foil.
2. Pour layer of chocolate on lined cookie sheet, then quickly toss snack mixture into the chocolate. Sprinkle sprinkles over top. (You'll need to work quickly as for the chocolate to not harden.)
3. Allow to harden (or refrigerate to harden)
4. Break apart into pieces.

*(You could toss your snack mixture on the lined cookie sheet first, then pour the white chocolate over top, but I had so many pieces that were so thick with chocolate since it is difficult to spread, the above directions worked best for me!)

Inspired by: Your Home Based Mom
Linked to: Tempt My Tummy Tuesday

Here is another version of "Monster Munch" that includes popcorn.

One town. One team. One dream.

2010-09-17T08:52:00.010-04:00

One town...One team...One dream...

We are in our ~~second~~ third undefeated week of our season. And our "boys of fall" are looking, full speed ahead, for the chance at a State Championship. We're a small town with big dreams, that never gives up.

Football Season...nothing is Finer!!

Sign of Good Fortune?

2010-09-17T08:27:00.003-04:00

Word has it that sighting a Praying Mantis is the sign of good fortune. After we found this guy on our garage floor, I look forward to the future!

Labor Day link-up

2010-09-05T21:40:00.004-04:00

Congratulations to my blogger friend, Amy, and her Coach on the birth of their fourth child! (Oh, how I know how challenging delivering right in the middle of football season can be!!) Amy is celebrating Labor Day again by celebrating birth stories.
I'm sharing mine again this year.
Click on over for more!

Crescent Rolls on Steroids

2010-08-25T11:44:00.005-04:00

These rolls are absolutely delish!! I call them "crescent rolls on steroids" because they are huge! They make a great addition to go along with any gifting meals, too. They can be easily frozen, then taken out as needed!

Butterhorns (Also a freezer recipe)
Recipe from: Money-Saving Mom
(makes 32 rolls)

2T. dry yeast, heaping
1/3C. warm water
9C. flour, divided (you can use any mixture of white or whole-wheat flour you’d like)
2C. warm milk
1C. butter, melted
1C. sugar
6 eggs
2t. salt

In a large mixing bowl, dissolve yeast in water. Add 4 cups flour, milk, butter, sugar, eggs and salt. Beat 2 minutes or until smooth. (I do this in my KitchenAid)
Add enough remaining flour to form a soft dough. Turn onto floured board and knead lightly. (Or, knead in mixer until sides of bowl are clean, then knead two more minutes.)

Place in a greased bowl, turning dough once to grease top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size(1-3 hours). (Quick tip: preheat oven to 200° for 5mins. Turn off oven. Let dough rise in warmed oven. Takes about 45mins.)

Punch dough down and divide into two equal parts. Roll each part into a circle. Cut each circle into 16 pie-shaped slices. (Like a pizza. I use a pizza cutter.)

Roll up each wedge wide edge to tip. (like you form canned crescent rolls).

Place on greased cooking sheet. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and allow to rise until doubled in size. (Remember my quick tip above)

Bake at 375° until lightly browned. (About 15 mins or so)

To freeze and use later:
After rolling, place on baking sheets and freeze (do not allow rolls to rise.) When frozen, place in freezer bags and keep frozen until needed.
To bake: Take out as many frozen rolls as you’ll need and place them on a greased baking sheet. Thaw for five hours or until doubled in size. Bake at 375° until lightly browned. Brush with melted butter as soon as they come out of the oven. Remove and serve immediately or cool on wire racks.

Some meal ideas:

Wrap hotdogs in these rolls for wonderful pigs in a blanket!
Idea from: Amy

Chocolate Butterhorns for Breakfast:
Idea from Life As Mom

After cutting each circle, drop some chocolate chips on each slice, and roll as usual. Then continue to prepare/freeze as above. After baking, remove them and brush with melted butter and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar before serving. SOooooo good!!

Works for Me Wednesday: Lower Your Bills

2010-08-25T09:34:00.004-04:00

Coach has three players that now play for the NFL, so he needs to watch them each week. He also has players that play all around the country, so he needs to watch them, too. Direct TV is the only place we can tune in to Minnesota, Miami, Chicago, California, Texas, Michigan, and so on, to watch his boys. For us, satellite is a necessity. But our Direct TV bill just kept creeping up and up... and on a measly coaching salary, it's getting harder and harder to write that check.

We recently got an invitation in the mail for the DISH satellite network, which was much cheaper than what we are paying for DirectTV. I called the DISH, and got the scoop. They had 90% of what we were already getting, minus the NFL Sunday ticket, but they had something like it, so we could still see most of the games. Since I was a DirecTV customer for 6 years already, I thought I'd give them a call and give them a chance to keep us as customers.

When I called, the representative already knew of the DISH package I was thinking about and the prices. They matched the DISH's current promotion, drastically lowering our bill for the next 12 months, then $17 a month after that ($17 off what we currently pay now). On top of that, we received a credit of a rather large amount! (covering our bill for the next three months!) Guess they didn't want to lose a customer!!

Call your current providers...cell phone, cable/satellite, or other negotiable utilities... See if there's any wiggle room in your current package. Companies would rather lower your payments than lose your business altogether!

Worked for Me!!

Ahhhhhhhhh....{Breathe}

2010-08-25T09:21:00.005-04:00

Yes. I'm still alive. Today it is absolutely raining buckets, so I. am. in. Not going anywhere. Actually, I fibbed. I have a dentist appointment this afternoon. But the past few weeks I have been running non-stop.

I have reported to my once-a-year job (outside my home) at our county fair. Thrown a surprise 45th Anniversary party for my parents. Had my sister's three children with us while she went to Hawaii. (Yeah...I know.) Oh, how I do not look forward to teenage years. Started coaching my daughter's cheerleading team. Uniform fittings. Practices. Scrimmages. Back to school shopping. Physicals. Pep-Rallies... You get the picture.

Did I mention it's the beginning of the busiest time for us? Full-blown Football season. Triples, 7-on-7's, scrimmages. Friday Night Lights! Bring it on!

Photo credit

Wordless Wednesday

2010-07-28T10:34:00.004-04:00

While driving the other day, I was overcome with the beauty of where we live. I love that my children are able to see this every day.

Works For Me Wednesday: Streamlined Bill Paying

2010-07-28T10:10:00.005-04:00

Every day runs a little smoother here thanks to our Daily System. Our household runs a little smoother with my home binder, housing all of our home warranties, maintenance/repair sheets, paint color chips, and booklets for baby gear, toys, electronics, etc.

And our bill paying runs a little smoother, thanks to my Bill Binder. I have a monthly calendar with each bills due date. I have files for bills to be paid, paid bills, and receipts. And since I have moved most of my bill paying online, I have a sheet with each website address and our login information, right at my fingertips. It makes it so much easier...when I need to pay a certain bill, I just look up the info on the sheet. No more searching for last month's online receipt where I scratched the password, etc. My Bill Binder works for me!!

Gratituesday: The Kindness of Others

2010-07-27T13:27:00.006-04:00

Today I am celebrating the kindness of friends and family in our lives. During this difficult time, we could not have made it without them. Everyone hits rough spots – and some people seem to survive avalanches – but often, other people are sent our way to rekindle our faith and keep us from despair.

And one friend, aside from her unwavering faith and prayer, has gone way above and beyond for us. During our visit to her home for an unbelievable Fourth of July party filled with our own NYC fireworks display, catered party food, and all of the street-vendor paraphernalia a kid could want, I mentioned, in passing, that I admired her clothesline. Yes... her clothesline. I have always wanted one, but aside from the perimeter of trees we have around our acres, we don't have a place to mount one. She had the answer...one that folded up. I casually mentioned we'll have to get one when Coach goes back to work.

That next week, she walked in to Coach's basketball camp and asked if the back of his truck was open. He thought nothing of it, until getting home, and opening the bed. There it was. A brand new clothesline, all wrapped up. She's too much.

The next week, this same friend delivered a huge bag of cucumbers from her organic garden. I'll be canning these today for dill pickles...Coach loves 'em!

And our family...blessing us with unexpected help, to get us through the tough times we've had, and, tough financial times to come. Yes, we do have a job, thank God. But we all know it's an employer's market....and those new employers do not commensurate your salary based on experience these days. You have to take what you can get.

Have an attitude of gratitude. Recognizing the blessings in your life and acting upon them regularly increases your awareness and appreciation. Sharing your gratitude improves your quality of life because it can only result in positive emotions. Learning to appreciate what you have also makes life more valuable and meaningful. Saying “thank you” isn’t tough for most people. Modeling a spirit of gratitude takes much more effort.

So, to my friend, and our family, I thank you immensely for all your blessings today.

Wildwood Travelers, Beware!

2010-07-19T16:07:00.007-04:00

The Cozy Country family is always on-the-go. From Maine, to festivals, to Hershey, the beach, and everywhere in between. This past week was no different. I decided to surprise coach for his birthday, and sneak in a Wildwood getaway. For you readers who are out of our Tri-State area (NY, NJ, PA), Wildwood is at the "Jersey Shore". Not to be confused with the reality show... most beach-goers are families. (Although I think I may have spotted Snookie down by the pool!)

We frequent the beach, and visit the Wildwood area at least once a year. But we haven't stayed in a hotel there for years. After the advice of my sister, who last month recommended it after her stay, I chose the Waikiki. After all, the meaning of Waikiki is resort... Ahhhh...just what we need. A relaxing resort-feel right before football season. Well folks, our stay was anything but. When I made the reservation I made it at the last minute; the day before arrival, so, pickin's were slim. But the woman on the phone said they had a beautiful room with the best view in the hotel..."a penthouse"-like room, it was described. It was on "the top floor". Only downside she mentioned was that it did not have a balcony. Well, as the mother of a four year old wall-scaling boy, I felt solace that there was no way he could fall overboard, being that high up. She said we were going to love it. Well...sign us up! We were psyched!

We arrived at check-in time. First inclination of trouble should have been when I went to pay our balance by personal check, since we loathe credit cards, the manager barked "Oh, NO....NO personal checks! It says so right on your confirmation we emailed you!!!" Okay...must've missed that. Gee, and I'm very thorough about those things. Well, I thought, I have my confirmation in the car, I'll check it out later. No biggie...I'm on vacation. Don't sweat the small stuff, right??!! So, debit did the trick. We got our keys and we were on our way up to "The Penthouse". We were on the sixth floor. The elevator only went to #5. So, we took it to the top and had to walk up a flight of stairs. Okay, indication #2 of potential problem...we were now technically on the roof. Next to the Rooftop Coffee Shop. The hallway down to the single room (which we affectionately named "The walk of death") is not looking too hot...actually it was very hot! We arrived at #602, and opened to a dim, dark, stank-smelling room. Very big, but not at all Penthouse-like....maybe a penthouse at "The Cockroach Towers"??!! The air conditioning was barely working, so we lowered it to it's lowest temperature, and went to the pool. Come evening, we were hoping for the best when returning to our room. As the night grew on, panic ensued and my Mama Bear instincts took over. This room was not good. We were the only family up there, on the roof, the windows did not open, and I was panicked. I went through the hall of death, and located the fire alarms (which worked, thank God) and in our room as well, and located the fire escape. (Which, mind you, did not have any ladders...just led to another door to the rooftop dining area, then down those stairs.) To make an already long story short, I didn't sleep a wink... I had to get us out of there ASAP!

The next morning I was in the lobby first thing. I explained my situation, to no avail. The clerk stated there was nothing else available, but would put our name on a list if something should come up. I checked in there numerous times throughout the day. Change of shift brought about change...There was suddenly an open room. I didn't care what it looked like, as long as it had two beds, we were there!! I asked what the procedure was, and said I would go pack our things, and suddenly, the manager from the check-in the day before, barked, again, "You can't have that room!! That room is a three day minimum!" I explained we were staying for three nights, we had already spent one night, and needed to be switched for the remaining two. Again, she said absolutely not, which led me to tears. I went on to say I hadn't slept, I was a mother of two young children with a deep fear of being trapped in a fire, and I could not stay in that room another night. Her response to me: "You're crazy! You think I would put people up there if they would be trapped in a fire?! I'm a mother, too, and a Grandmother, and I would put my own family up there!" Well, that's fine for them, but not for me. She went on, raising her voice, yet again, and then marched out. The clerk and I just looked at each other, and she apologized about what had just happened. I could not believe what I was seeing. As you've probably figured out, we made it. We survived our nightmare, with only a three day-long migraine as a casualty (mine). Our trip was great...we had a wonderful time! But our hotel...you get it. Let me leave you with an image: Our first night there my four year old spilled some Go-Gurt on the bed sheets... four days later the stain was still there. You get the picture.

From that moment, I made it my mission to tell everyone that would listen our story. The managers choice to put money before a guests comfort or peace of mind, and not to lose $139 for one nights rental will cost her 100 times that... we will never come back. Families we would have recommended the hotel to will never stay there/ and or never return. Her decision just to spite me will come back to haunt her. I have the outlet to write my review for all to see.

The managers rudeness, downright mean-ness, and lack of respect for her paying "guests" is a reflection on the Waikiki Hotel. I went in to the office every day until we checked out to speak to the owner, who, surprisingly, never showed up again. I hear he is in his first year of ownership of the hotel, and is trying to polish the image...to upgrade. He's got a long way to go! I think he needs to start with his management.

With that said...I must share with you one shining gem of our stay at the Waikiki. The so-called Rooftop Coffee Shop... our neighbors for four days. The food there is outstanding. The service is phenomenal. Alert Guy Fieri...he has Bobby the Chef to visit. I think the hotel manager should shadow him for a week to learn how customer service is really supposed to be.

In essence, will we be back to Wildwood in the future? You bet! Will we be guests of the Waikiki? Not a chance in hell. However, we will be guests of Bobby's Coffee Shop on the roof! He's got the best food on the whole island!

Oh, and that no-check policy...not stated ANYWHERE on any piece of information or confirmation I received. I could kick myself for not going back in and setting her straight! I had the documents to prove it!!

Great American Backyard Campout

2010-07-01T23:22:00.007-04:00

Last weekend Coach was away at the state university with his team for basketball camp. They always go the same weekend as The Great American Backyard Campout, and the kids are always disappointed that Daddy can't join in the festivities I try to plan.

However, disappointed tears always turn to excitement and awesomeness when I mention my single girlfriend's name... (My daughter says "that girl is so awesome!") They love when EM makes a visit, and it's usually the same weekend every year. Last year we had to settle with a dinner at Friendly's and half-baked smores in the oven due to loss of power from horrendous thunderstorms, but this year we went all out!

We planned true campers fare:

Hobo Burgers

Cheesy Potato Packets

Grilled corn-on-the-cob

Jiffy Pop

and of course, S'mores!!

Top it off with the showing of an outdoor movie and camping out in the tent.

No silly...you know our history!! Not outside with this visitor coming through our picnic (which, I love ya EM, but high-tailing it in the house in front of the children....c'mon!??!!)

There's no picture-perfect postcard camping going on in our cozy neck of the woods... We pitch our tents in our family room! This campsite includes A/C!!

Spending a "girls weekend" along with my kids is as about as much fun as EM's Cha Cha Vera... I just love it!!

Linked to: Finer Things Friday

Gratituesday: Contracts!!

2010-06-22T12:02:00.003-04:00

"Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight"

Proverbs 3:5-6

We have some wonderful things to be so grateful for, this Gratituesday!!! Way back when, I shared what Coach and I have been going through. It has been the hardest, most trying time in our marriage to date. Our faith was tested...tested to the max. But, to God be the Glory! We have a contract! He will be teaching High School Special Education in the next town over. He will also continue coaching his three sports: Football, Basketball, and Baseball, at our hometown High School. Like many coaches, his coaching career is dear to his heart. Along with his teaching, he has poured his heart and soul into those programs, and is grateful he still has those jobs. (As are the players and parents!)
We not only had one job offer, but multiple offers. As in, we were able to weigh all of the options, and choose the one that best suited our circumstances, the best one for us. Through this whole ordeal we have really learned who our true friends are. We learned who we could trust. Learned that our family is our rock, and trusting wholly in the Lord is not easy. It takes true faith. We knew God had a plan, and that He was working His plan for us. We did not always see it, and may never really understand why, but He was preparing us for the life He meant for us to have. As we come out on the other side, we look back and see things we never realized at the moment:
God will close a door, on purpose, because it is not His best for us. It's not where we're supposed to be. We have to be willing to press through difficulty to see His plan. We need to trust Him because He is directing our steps.

Linked to: Gratituesday

Get ready for the "New"...

2010-06-19T23:15:00.003-04:00

(This devotional was in my "Inbox" for me yesterday...as if it was written for us. We are seeing God's plan work for us. Stay tuned for new developments!!)

"Father God, thank You for Your faithfulness in my life. Today, I choose to trust You with my past, present and future. Give me wisdom to discern the seasons of my life and teach me to embrace the new things You have in store for me."

In order to move forward into the blessing God has for you, you have to be willing to let go of the old. The things that are behind you are not nearly as important as what is out in front of you.
You may have had some unfair things happen, things that you don't understand. Instead of allowing those things to hold you back, why don't you let go and take a step of faith into the new? It's time to get a new, bigger vision; it's time to get a new, fresher outlook; it's time to rise up with a new attitude!
Instead of settling where you are, pick up and move forward. Have the attitude that says, "I may not understand it; it may not have been fair, but I am not getting stuck on this page. I know God has a new chapter for me—a chapter filled with blessings, favor and victory!

The only thing Working For Me this Wednesday...

2010-06-16T12:19:00.004-04:00

This, my friends, is the only thing Working For Me this Wednesday, when nothing else is going right... knowing that it's always darkest just before the dawn appears...

"Because you got a double dose of trouble and more than your share of contempt, your inheritance in the land will be doubled and your joy go on forever"

Isaiah 61:7

Father God, I choose to put my trust and hope in You today. Thank You for bringing restoration into my life as I keep my heart and mind stayed on You. Thank You for holding me in the palm of Your hand. I choose to release the questions and disappointments in the past so that I can be ready to receive the victory You have prepared for us.

Linked to: Works for Me Wednesday

And we're not even close to Kansas...

2010-06-11T10:37:00.008-04:00

Photo Credit

A Twister... a twister!! Apparently while we were away over the weekend, we had Tornado warnings. Tornado Warnings! What? Here? In the country? In the mountains??!!

Well, yes. And, even though our cozy country home is perched high on a hill, the tornado touched down on our patio. Our patio, and only our patio. We were greeted with our wrought iron patio set twisted and mangled as un-humanly possible. It was thrown uphill, and there were piles of tempered glass everywhere. It looked as if we had an ice storm, there were so many piles of clear-green glass. Our market umbrellas were literally shredded to thin, splintered sticks. A tornado. (I know there are many readers that this is a common occurrence around your parts, but not here. Really unheard of...until recently.)

Now, with all that has been going on in our lives in the past three months, add to it our dryer catching on fire and needing to replace both a washer and a dryer, our van going in for work and needing $1000 of mandatory repairs, and now this. But, we are thankful it was only our replaceable patio set!

You see, I've spoken with God, and let Him know that I couldn't handle any more...I was at my breaking point. I couldn't take not one more thing going wrong right now. And He knew this. That is why we came home to a mangled patio, and not a mangled roof, or a demolished house. It could have been so. much. worse.

Sometimes I may not always feel that God has "got my back", or feel as if He is listening when I need Him the most, but He is. God's protection... a Finer Thing I will never tire of.

Linked to: Finer Things Friday

Recipe Swap: Anything Goes

2010-06-10T09:43:00.004-04:00

Around here, especially during this busy time of end-of-school activities, superstar week for Football, class picnics, and weekend visits to the coast, there are many nights I'll declare as an "anything goes" type of meal. It certainly helps when we fill our grill with marinated chicken breasts, steak, and burgers over the weekend so we can enjoy quick meals during the week.

Here's one of our favorite recipes to use our leftover grilled chicken:

Penne Rustica

Ingredients:

12 oz. grilled chicken breast (marinate in italian dressing)

crisp, cooked bacon

prepared penne

1 cup grated parmesan cheese

Sauce:

2 tsp butter

2 tsp chopped garlic

1 cup marsala wine OR 1/3 cup apple juice + 2 tbsp red wine vinegar +enough chicken broth to equal 1 cup

1 tsp dijon or dry mustard

1 tsp salt

1C. light cream

Directions:

Saute garlic in butter in large pan. Add marsala wine, mustard, salt, and heavy cream. Cook pasta according to directions. Cook bacon. Slice chicken into medium-bite size pieces. Combine sauce, cooked pasta, diced chicken, cooked bacon, parmesan cheese and mix thoroughly. Spread in baking dish. Top with mozzarella cheese.

Bake @ 475 for 10 minutes.

(I often make two pans of this and freeze one)

If frozen, thaw in refrigerator the day of. Cover with foil and bake @ 375 for 1 hour. Remove foil during the last 15 minutes.

Some other favorite ways to use up our grilled chicken: Pasta Alfredo and Penne Vodka.

Linked to: Ultimate Recipe Swap at LifeasMom

Finer Things Friday...Road Trip

2010-05-28T12:52:00.008-04:00

On the road again....We can't wait to get on the road again.... (you know the song!!)

The Cozy family is on their way to Maine tonight! It'll be clam "chowdah", "lobstah" (okay, trying to mimic the accent here), and Maine Diner's mac-and-cheese for the next few days. (Did I mention a visit to Stonewall Kitchen??!!)

We can't wait!!

Skipping rocks from the rocky shores of the Atlantic, driving on the coast, visiting our kids most favorite sweet shop, walking up to the lighthouse, and spending time with our family.

It doesn't get any finer than that!!!

Image credit click here

Finer Things Friday...Hellllloooo Mr. Jackson!!

2010-05-14T11:57:00.004-04:00

Doing laundry in my new front loader...I love. With that said, I don't love doing laundry. But finding tips in the rubber door seal every now and then is a little added bonus..."chump change" mostly. I'm lucky if I can grab a DD's at the end of the week...

I got excited when I found what looked to be a bill...no quarters or dimes this time!!! An actual bill!! (How did I miss that one when I checked all the pockets, I thought??)

Upon further examination...Hello Andrew Jackson!! Jackpot!!

Linked to: Finer Things Friday

Finer Things Friday: Signs of Spring!

2010-04-30T09:37:00.005-04:00

Finally...some sunshine and beautiful blooming around here!!

Our cherry blossom tree is right outside our dining room doors and our lilac bush outside our kitchen windows, so the fragrance wafting through our home on warm, windy days is unbelievable!! (Not so great for the allergies, but after an Advil Sinus, or two, we really enjoy the beautiful scents!! :) )

Hopefully, signs of good things to come!

Linked to: Finer Things Friday

Finer Things Friday: Report Card and Conference Time

2010-04-23T08:52:00.003-04:00

It's that time again...report cards and parent teacher conferences. Oh, how I remember the excitement, and sometimes the anxiety (oh, yes!), of my parents getting ready the night of parent-teacher conferences at my school. I still recall the way they would come through the door whether the report was going to be good, or, "you have some things to work on..." (You see, I was the little "social butterfly"). Well, fortunately for me, I turned out okay. And my children, they're even better!

Our first grader received yet another picture-perfect report card, and we had another enjoyable conference with her teacher. She is right on target, and is thriving with the challenging enrichment work she is given. Yes, she too is a little "social butterfly" per se, but "continues to be a great example for others". Oh, we're so proud!

And our four year old...he too has made great strides this year in his first year at preschool! What a great conference we had for him as well! He is a "leader" in his classroom, and "will make one super athlete", according to his teachers. (Well, did he have a chance otherwise??!! Coach was thrilled to hear that!!) He counts up to 29... a record!

With two teachers as parents, our children don't have a chance when it comes to "goofing off" in school. They know the importance of education, studying, respecting their teachers and helping others. We couldn't be more proud of our little students!!

Linked to: Finer Things Friday

Finer Things Friday: Helping Others

2010-04-16T08:44:00.003-04:00

Yesterday I pulled into the gas station to fill my tires and found a little old man at the air filling station. A farmer, no doubt, probably one of the last original ones in our little tiny-town. Wearing what may be an original pair of Dickies navy blue work pants and matching shirt and thick suspenders, he was struggling to read the directions to fill his farm truck filled with hay. I hopped out and quickly asked if he needed some help. He wasn't sure and explained he had just been across the street to the other filling station where they "robbed him of fifty cents". He explained that the air was blowing all around and he couldn't get it to work, and no one would help him. His tires looked like they hadn't been filled in years. So, I showed him where to find his poundage for the pressure (inside the drivers side door) and programmed the machine. We filled them up, and good thing... they were at 15 pounds!
When we were finished with both his truck and my van, he said "Young lady...I'm 80-sumpin' years old, and it has to be over twenty years since someone offered to help me. Thank you."

You're welcome! And if it's been over twenty years, then something is seriously wrong with this world.
Help each other out...nothing can be Finer!!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-04-14T08:46:00.006-04:00

We had two visitors this morning.

(Am I seeing things, or does it look like he's sticking his tongue out at me??!! Fresh little thing!)

Keep going guys...nothing for you here!!

Linked to: Wordless Wednesday

Gratituesday: Content Whatever the Circumstances

2010-04-12T21:18:00.026-04:00

"weeping may last through the night, but joy comes with the morning..." Psalm 30:5

A lot has been going on in our lives here at the Cozy Country Home that I haven't shared until now. Three weeks ago my husband, Coach (who is also a high-school special education teacher), found out he was losing his job at the High School after this school year. Our state is under such chaos by our new governor who has cut state funding to our school district and most in the state by almost 20%. (Our neighboring district was cut 39%) That translates into millions. Since Coach is non-tenured after leaving his previous district of eleven years, he's the first to go. His school cut 17 teaches. This has been an unbelievably shocking, devastating blow to us. We were blindsided, since administration says he "represents the change they want to see here [the school]". Huh...{sigh}. We have been "showered" with emails, letters, text messages, and phone calls of support (and letters and emails forwarded to administration by senders) from students, parents, and the coaching community. They were just as shocked, and quite frankly, disgusted. Coach invested himself, his whole self, into this school. In his interview he promised to achieve coaching goals, promising state games, within 3-4 years turnaround time....He did it in his second year, this year. He fulfilled every promise he made. He knew what it took, and went after it 210%. I have rolled over at 1:30 in the morning and found an empty spot where my husband should be, only to find him downstairs reviewing game film. He stepped up and brought Special Olympics to the school...he saw a need and was told no one wanted the responsibility, so he took it on! (So sad to know that once he's gone, the program will be too...) Many nights he sat with players filling out their college applications, something they showed up on our doorstep not knowing how to do. He took them on college visits, walking through dorms, taking notes on financial aid and scholarship money for his players. He went way above, way beyond his duty as a teacher and a head coach. He did it because he believes in these kids. He is the one that told them they have a future, and he was helping them find it. He is taking this very personally.

It's very, very hard to see your husband this way. My heart aches to see him so hurt. We took a leap of faith and left everything... everything he worked so hard for eleven years for. Tenure. Coach of a six-time State Championship football team. Tenure. Head Coach of a three-time State Playoff basketball team. and tenure. Did I mention job security? (tenure??!!) No, we could not see this coming. We just are having a hard time trying to figure out the lesson in all this... "weeping may last through the night, but joy comes with the morning..." Psalm 30:5 I have had many a night where I have cried myself to sleep.

And as if this isn't enough to endure, our seven year old has been undergoing testing...thyroid, diabetes, etc... Tests came back she has Lyme disease. I am grateful to know exactly what it is, and she is being treated for it. The Lord does not give us more than we can handle...

Even though it seems like our world is falling down around us, there are many things I am most grateful for...
Our faith... I'm not going to lie, we have had many dark moments. My faith has been deeply tested, but I know I can walk in the strength God has given to me.

Our health...aside from my deafness (hasn't gotten any better...) and our new battle with Lyme disease, we are healthy. I can handle anything that is thrown at me...but when my children are sick, I pray to suffer for them instead...

The support of our family...this has been unwavering, and for that, we are truly grateful.

We still have a job for the next two months...a paycheck is coming until the end of June, praise God!

We have a savings...Dave Ramsey knows what he's talking about! An emergency fund for an emergency!!

We have Coaching income...He is still Assistant Football coach, Head Basketball, and Assistant Baseball coach. We know if all else fails, he will get paid three times this next year. (Does that sound encouraging??)

We do have opportunities...He has made a name for himself, and he does have opportunities presenting themselves. We have a Plan A, B, C, D, and E... Plan A being the best scenario, and something opening up at his current High School, somewhere in the middle plans are surrounding High Schools that have contacted him about making a move, and Plan E, well, ... think Tennessee. Yes, word in the coaching world is some brotherhood...it made it's way down to Tennessee. Nothing against Tennessee...I'm just not in any state of mind right now to pick up and move. It's good to have options though. We may revisit that plan sometime!

With that said, Coach has made a name for himself, and therefore word travels fast. Initially I wasn't telling anyone, and then after reading Leigh Anne's post and talking with her about it, I realized she was totally right on!

And, I'm most grateful that we have each other. It has not been easy, and things may get more difficult before they get better, but we are each others rock, and our already strong, solid marriage only gets stronger.

"And the God of all grace…will Himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast"

I Peter 5:10

Join us for Gratituesday at: Heavenly Homemakers

Fine Weather!!

2010-04-09T20:35:00.008-04:00

Please excuse my tardiness in posting my Finer Things Friday... spring break business!

Easter Morning...

Every Easter for as long as I can remember, we went down to the beach for the weekend. We would pack our Easter baskets, as well as our snowsuits, hats, gloves, and boots. It was always so cold! (The heat was always going, and I still remember the smell of the electric heat being used the first time of the year!!) Easter at the beach, a Finer Thing in my book!!

Well folks, not this year!!! It was 82° and sunny on Easter!! My daughter wore her sleeveless dress and we left the cardigan at home! We went to mass, (no sunrise service for us this year!! slackers...), then went out for brunch and quickly returned home so we could go on the beach!! It was absolutely beautiful! We got some much needed Vitamin D, and some color, and the kids played in the sand and the water until dusk! Then, at dusk, we had Papa's...I mean the Easter Bunny's... annual egg hunt on the beach.

The sun is setting at our egg hunt..

The next day was even hotter...a scorching 86°! Too bad Daddy had a baseball game and had to get home!!

We're home now from our little jaunt to the coast, but we were reveling in the beautiful, un-seasonal weather... as high as 88°!! I had to make a trip up to the attic to get some clothes for everyone! Alas, today we were quickly faced with reality, as it is 50°, and damp. Oh well, so much for the tease. We enjoyed it while it lasted!!

Pictures from last year's Easter here...

Those Were the Days...

2010-03-29T23:17:00.003-04:00

This is just too funny not to share. I've been having a tough run of it these days, but when I received this email, I laughed so hard!! Thanks EM!!

If you are 30, or older, you might think this is hilarious! ..if not read it and laugh at the rest of us.
When I was a kid, adults used to bore me to tears with their tedious diatribes about how hard things were. When they were growing up; what with walking twenty-five miles to school every morning.... Uphill... Barefoot... BOTH ways… yadda, yadda, yadda
And I remember promising myself that when I grew up, there was no way I was going to lay a bunch of crap like that on my kids about how hard I had it and how easy they've got it!
But now that I'm over the ripe old age of thirty, I can't help but look around and notice the youth of today. You've got it so easy! I mean, compared to my childhood, you live in a Utopia!
And I hate to say it, but you kids today, you don't know how good you've got it! I mean, when I was a kid we didn't have the Internet. If we wanted to know something, we had to go to the library and look it up ourselves...in the card catalog!!
There was no email!! We had to actually write somebody a letter - with a pen! Then you had to walk all the way across the street and put it in the mailbox, and it would take like a week to get there! Stamps were 10 cents!
Child Protective Services didn't care if our parents beat us. As a matter of fact, the parents of all my friends also had permission to kick our butts!
There were no MP3's or Napsters or iTunes! If you wanted to record a song you had to wait around all day to tape it off the radio, and the DJ would usually talk over the beginning and screw it all up! There were no CD players! We had tape decks in our car... We'd play our favorite tape and "eject" it when finished, and then the tape would come undone rendering it useless. Cause, hey, that's how we rolled, Baby! Dig?
We didn't have fancy stuff like Call Waiting! If you were on the phone and somebody else called, they got a busy signal, that's it! There weren't any cell phones either. If you left the house, you just didn't make a call or receive one. You actually had to be out of touch with your "friends". OH MY GOSH !!! Think of the horror... not being in touch with someone 24/7!!! And then there's TEXTING. Yeah, right. Please! You kids have no idea how annoying you are.
We didn't have fancy Caller ID either! When the phone rang, you had no idea who it was! It could be your school, your parents, your boss, your bookie, the collection agent... you just didn't know!!! You had to pick it up and take your chances, mister!
We didn't have any fancy PlayStation or Xbox video games with high-resolution 3-D graphics! We had the Atari 2600! With games like 'Space Invaders' and 'Asteroids'. Your screen guy was a little square! You actually had to use your imagination!!! And there were no multiple levels or screens, it was just one screen... Forever! And you could never win. The game just kept getting harder and harder and faster and faster until you died!
Just like LIFE!
You had to use a little book called a TV Guide to find out what was on! You were screwed when it came to channel surfing! You had to get off your behind and walk over to the TV to change the channel!!! NO REMOTES!!! Oh, no, what's the world coming to?!?!
There was no Cartoon Network either! You could only get cartoons on Saturday Morning. Do you hear what I'm saying? We had to wait ALL WEEK for cartoons, you spoiled little rat-finks!And we didn't have microwaves. If we wanted to heat something up, we had to use the stove! Imagine that!
And our parents told us to stay outside and play... All. Day. Long. Oh, no, no electronics to soothe and comfort. And if you came back inside... you were doing chores!
And car seats - oh, please! Mom threw you in the back seat and you hung on. If you were lucky, you got the "safety arm" across the chest at the last moment if she had to stop suddenly, and if your head hit the dashboard, well that was your fault for calling "shot gun" in the first place! See! That's exactly what I'm talking about!
You kids today have got it too easy. You're spoiled rotten! You guys wouldn't have lasted five minutes back in 1980 or any time before!

Regards,
The Over 30 Crowd

Praying for Strength and Faith

2010-03-19T21:58:00.011-04:00

There are many things hanging very heavy on not just my own, but many of our hearts right now. I am trying to keep the faith in knowing that even in the worst of times, there is always a ray of hope.

Dear Lord,

In these troubling times,

I am filled with unspeakable fears.

I reach my hand out to you now.

I ask you to walk beside me.
Please help me hold on strong,

During these storms.

And help me hold my hopes high,

Even in the darkest hour.

Amen.

Finer Things Friday: Fine Weather BBQ!

2010-03-18T22:00:00.005-04:00

It's only March, and yes, this could be a tease, but today (Thurs.) hit a high of 69° so we filled the grill and had our first BBQ of the season! I quickly made some phone calls and rounded up my parents and my sister and her family...the kids were in the fields playing, the Itunes were playing, and we were wishing it was Friday!! (but quickly remembered it was a school night, and so the party was a quick one!!) Tomorrow's forecast, as well as the weekend's: 70°+ and sunny! (And there's another party planned for Saturday!!) Bring it on!!

Being outside all day, basking in the sunshine, soaking in the Vitamin D, and spending time with family...that's a Finer Thing!!

Wordless Wednesday: St. Patrick's Day Edition

2010-03-17T11:09:00.003-04:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Linked to: Wordless Wednesday

St. Patrick's Day Treats

2010-03-17T10:56:00.006-04:00

Here are the cupcakes I made for my daughter's 1st grade class today. They came out just adorable!! I didn't snap a picture, since we were in such a hurry this morning after I frosted them (they came out exactly like the picture), and I put a gold chocolate coin on each frosting "cloud". They loved them. (I'll add an actual picture later, since I have to make another batch for my son's preschool class tomorrow. It is his day, after all, since his middle name is Francis-Patrick!!) Good Irish Boy!

Beware: Although they're cute...they take forever to make (like almost 2 hours!!)!! Imagine layering and spreading each of the 6 colors perfectly in each little cupcake cup, so the colors don't mix. Things we do for our kids!! (My batch of batter only produced 17 cupcakes)

Ingredients:
White cake mix (we used an 18-1/4-ounce box)
Food coloring (red, blue, green, and yellow)
Baking cups
Whipped cream (optional) (I used whipped frosting)
Chocolate Coins

Instructions:
Prepare your favorite white cake mix, then divide the batter evenly among six small bowls.

Following the chart below, dye each bowl of batter a rainbow color.
Purple: 9 red and 6 blue drops
Blue: 12 drops
Green: 12 drops
Yellow: 12 drops
Orange: 12 yellow and 4 red drops
Red: 18 drops

Line 16 muffin pan wells with baking cups. Evenly distribute the purple batter among the cups, then the blue, and so on, following the order shown. As you go, gently spread each layer of batter with the back of a spoon to cover the color underneath.
Bake the cupcakes according to your recipe directions. Before serving, remove the paper wrapping, and if you like, top each cupcake with a whipped-cream cloud.

Works for Me Wednesday: Bringing Your Child for Labwork

2010-03-17T10:24:00.003-04:00

Ugh...bloodwork. I don't even like having bloodwork done, let alone having my children have their blood drawn!! The anxiety...the anticipation!! My daughter went for labwork this morning and it has been the talk of the classroom and dinner table since Monday. She was so brave!!

Before the big event, one does their research on how to make this a "more pleasant experience"...

All of the experts note the same recommendations:

Reassure her while she gets a needle.

Explain that it won't be more painful than a pinch and will be over quickly. (hopefully!!)

Encourage her to be strong and brave. While a needle looks frightening, they're not dangerous.
Talk to her calmly.

Take deep, slow breaths. (Child and Mom!!)

That's all well and good folks. But, what Works for Me?? Going out for breakfast after, going to school late, and good 'ol fashioned bribery...

Silly Bands...they're all the rage!

Works every time!!

Wordless Wednesday: Look Who's Awake!

2010-03-17T10:23:00.006-04:00

I snapped this quickly (sorry so blurry...I couldn't move fast enough...scared the stuffin' right out of me!!) as "Little Bear" zoomed right past me this morning. I parked in the driveway since it was so nice, but you can bet my van will be back in the garage today!!

Hopefully his friends or relatives won't be back on the homestead again this year!!

Linked to: Wordless Wednesday

Tackle it Tuesday: 30-Day Shred Update

2010-03-16T12:06:00.007-04:00

Last week I started Jillian Michael's 30-Day Shred. Here's my update:

I missed two days this past week. A monstrous, debilitating sinus/migraine headache and nausea was a good excuse, then we had a church supper on Sunday, and I was just preoccupied with housework and cooking, and we got home much later than expected, so I didn't get around to it. (Not to mention the time change thrown in...we lost an hours sleep, you know!!)

When I started I measured every part that could be measured, around my thighs, arms, behind, hips, etc...and so far I lost 2.5 inches around my waist (that is where I noticed it's more toned!!), 1 inch off my hips and an inch off the tops of my arms (again, more toned!!) I went from doing no exercise regimen to this...so I think my body was in shock and I saw results. I'm due to start Level 2 on Thursday...I'll let you know how that goes!! In the video Jillian says after 5-7 days you get used to it...well, newsflash, Jillian: There's nothing in your workout this body is getting used to!!! ;) I just look at it as one more thing on my list I have to tackle each day. My bikini...uh, I mean tankini... awaits!!

How's everyone else doing on your 30-Day Shred?

Linked to: Tackle it Tuesday

Finer Things Friday: Prom Dress Shopping!

2010-03-12T09:01:00.007-05:00

It's that time again!! Prom!! I loved prom!! I love it so much, I ended up going to about 6 of them... My own, then other schools with guy friends of mine. There's just something about prom. The dress, the dancing, the midnight breakfasts afterward, then going to the shore that weekend. Those were the days! (I wish they had a prom for husbands & wives! My husband chaperone's his High School's prom, but I'm not allowed to go! Believe me, I asked, and begged!!) Oh well, guess I have to wait for the Senior (as in Senior Citizens) Prom when I grow up!!

My niece (she is 5'9"...tall, thin, and beautiful!!) is valiantly shopping for her dress, and has asked me to come along for my fashionista opinion!! Oh, I feel valued!!
Here are the final contenders:

My favorite...looks absolutely stunning on!!

This one...

And this one...only in red

Updated to say: And the winner is... Dress #1 (my fave) in the green (the color of dress #2). Turns out that was her favorite color, and she is wearing the dress... The dress will be in next week! What fun we had!! It was such a difficult process though. Best of luck to my sister when it comes times for Bridal gowns!!

Linked to: Finer Things Friday

Tackle it Tuesday...30-Day Shred!

2010-03-09T00:30:00.009-05:00

My thighs haven't walked themselves into a gym in years. I lie... I went with my daughters Daisy scout troop to watch her do a kickboxing class last year...does that count? Well then, truth be told, I was only into working out when my husband and I were dating. You see, he was a Gold's Gym rat (I could use his arms as monkey bars he was so built!!), and since he was a coach, the only time I got to see him was after practice, at the gym. So I strategically placed myself on the treadmill that was in direct vision of the door...so he could walk in, b-line it to me, visit for a few minutes, and I could be on my way. (He never knew I arrived there only minutes earlier, worked up a quick sweat, and said my workout was done...oh, what we do for love!) :) In keeping with the no-workout theme, I'm embarrassed to say that I've had Jillian Michaels' 30-Day Shred since last September, and haven't done it for more than a day. (It's a 20 minute workout...I thought, "how hard could it be?" Well, my friends, she isn't the trainer on the Biggest Loser for nothin'... it's tough!!) I'm not overweight, but totally. out. of. shape. The only stair master these cheeks have seen in the past ten years is my flight of stairs in my house. I'm feeling it. With all of the hustle-and-bustle of the holidays I am one that actually loses weight Thanksgiving through New Year's. I'm so busy I either forget to eat, or burn off what I do. This time of year, though, is most difficult. No business, no parties to plan, etc. Just short and bathing suit season...that's the big white elephant in the room. (and if I don't do something soon, I might be that big, white elephant!!) It's time to get to work!!

So...I've said it for all to hear, and I've now become accountable! I've started the 30-Day Shred and will report my progress and any results. (If there are any, and oh, I hope there are!!) (Updated to say: this morning I awoke and can barely lift my arms past shoulder height. Oh Mama... this is only level one. Well, just 29 more days to go!)

How about you...has anybody ever tried the 30-Day Shred? What is your workout routine? Stay posted for my updates...

Supper Time: March 7-13th, 2010

2010-03-08T08:28:00.003-05:00

*Disclosure*: Meals are subj. to change w/o notice due to unforeseen circumstances, change of plans, migraines or meltdowns!!
Note: try to use free-range organic or all-natural chicken and beef, and organic fruits and vegetables when possible...and always try to use organic dairy!!

For Sunday dinner I was planning on having my parents over for pot roast. Since we've been having such beautiful, spring-like weather here, they decided to head to the beach. (Oh, how I wish we could have gone!!) So my mom made up a Shepherd's Pie for us for an extra meal, and I had my sister's family over instead.

Sunday: Pot Roast with vegetables
Shepherd's Pie
Dinner rolls

Monday: Chicken and Wild Rice Cakes (OAMC)
Applesauce
Green Beans

Tuesday: Rigatoni with Broccoli
Homemade Bread

Wednesday: Chicken Pot Pie

Thursday: Enchilada's
Corn
Salad

Friday: Meatless Lenten Friday
Pasta Bar
(homemade mac & cheese, alfredo, and vodka sauce)
Salad Bar

Saturday: Pizza
Salad

For more menu ideas visit orgjunkie.com

OAMC- WMT???

2010-03-03T10:03:00.005-05:00

OAMC- WMT?? (Once a Month Cooking...What are My Thoughts?)

Well, it's definitely a lot of work, and a lot of planning. I didn't get to everything on my "tall-order" menu, but I did get to some.

I think the key is to not have anything else planned for that day or two. Doctors visits, mattress deliveries, school drop off and pick up runs...Girl Scout cookie deliveries...State playoff games...they all hamper the cooking/preparation process. Having help is key... at least I think it would've been key for me...but I didn't have any!

It was fun. Would I do it again? Probably...just on a smaller scale. I may just double each recipe I make daily from now on and toss the extra meal in the freezer.

I'm definitely more motivated now to have a Freezer Swap party again. (think cookie exchange, but meals instead of cookies) with a few friends. We used to do that around October before the hustle-and-bustle of the holidays, and it was great fun.

Stay tuned on more about that...

It's been real, y'all! Enjoy your meals!!

Mickey Mouse Waffles

2010-03-03T09:47:00.005-05:00

I made 1 dozen Mickey Mouse waffles (frozen in 2ct. individual bags for easy school mornings).

Ingredients:
Nonstick Spray
1 1/4 C. all-purpose flour (I mix 3/4 C. whole wheat pastry flour...so half is all-purpose and half is WW. pastry)
1 egg
1 1/4 C. buttermilk
1/4 C. sugar
1 heaping t. baking powder
1 t. baking soda
3/4T. wheat germ
1/4 cup cooking oil
pinch of salt

Directions:
Preheat a skillet over medium heat. Use a pan with a nonstick surface or apply a little nonstick spray.
With a mixer, combine all of the remaining ingredients until smooth.
Pour the batter by spoonfuls into the hot pan (or waffle iron), forming 5-inch circles for pancakes
When the edges appear to harden, flip the pancakes...or waffles. They should be light brown. Cook on the other side for same amount of time, until light brown.

Makes 8 to 10 pancakes or about 5-6 waffles.

Individually wrap and freeze in freezer bags.

Creamy Italian Pasta with Chicken- OAMC (Meal in a Bag)

2010-03-03T09:28:00.007-05:00

I love the convenience of those skillet meals-in-a-bag (think Skillet Sensations or Bertolli meals) but hate the sodium content...and the price!! Well, make your own! Easy, simple, and all set for a quick, homemade meal!

Ingredients:
1 box whole grain linguini
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, boiled and cubed.
red, green, yellow peppers (already sliced and frozen)
1C. tomato sauce
1/2 C. ricotta cheese
1/4 C. half and half

Directions:
Prepare pasta according to package directions. Toss with a little EVOO. Set aside to cool.
Mix tomato sauce, ricotta cheese and half and half in pot and bring to boil. Set aside to cool.
Place cooked, cubed chicken in freezer bag and freeze.
When Sauce mixture is cooled, pour into ice cube tray and freeze.

When pasta is cooled, gather a forkfull of noodles and twirl them into little "nests" on a cookie sheet lined with parchment or wax paper. Place in freezer. (these don't take too long to freeze).

When noodles and sauce are frozen, place all contents into freezer bag. (Pasta nests, sauce cubes, frozen cubed chicken, and frozen pepper slices.)

Preparation:
When you are ready to cook, pour the contents of bag into a skillet over medium heat. Cover and cook for 3 minutes. Stir and continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until sauce is melted and everything is heated through. About 5-10mins.

These also make wonderful gifts for giving to a new mom, homebound seniors, or anyone just needing a break from cooking!!

Rigatoni with Sausage and Peppers- OAMC (Meal in a Bag)

2010-03-03T09:08:00.006-05:00

Ingredients:

1/2 box Rigatoni Pasta (or shape of your choice)

2 Sweet (or spicy) Italian Sausage links

1/2C. Ricotta Cheese

1C. tomato sauce

Red, green, yellow pepper slices (amount to your liking)

Directions:

Prepare the pasta shapes according to box directions. Drain, cool. When cool, scatter over a large cookie sheet covered in wax paper; freeze. (I coat mine with a little EVOO before freezing to help with sticking.)

Slice sausage into bite sized chunks. (Helps if the sausage is a little frozen...keeps it firm while slicing!) Brown in skillet. Allow to cool, then freeze.

Mix ricotta cheese and tomato sauce together. Pour into ice cube trays and freeze. (may take a while!)

Slice peppers thinly and place on cookie sheet lined with parchment or wax paper. Freeze.

When everything is frozen, place together in freezer bag.

Preparation:
When you are ready to cook, dump the contents of bag into a skillet over medium heat. Cover for 1-2 minutes, then stir. Continue to cook, stirring, until sauce cubes are completely melted and everything is heated through.

These also make wonderful gifts for giving to a new mom, homebound seniors, or anyone just needing a break from cooking!!

Cheeseburger Pasta- OAMC (Skillet Meal in a Bag)

2010-03-03T08:55:00.009-05:00

Ingredients:

1/2 box pasta of choice (Chunkier works best: rotini, penne, rigatoni...I used rigatoni)

1/2 lb ground beef

14.5 oz can diced tomatoes, lightly drained

1T. butter

1 T. flour

1 C. milk

1 C. shredded cheddar cheese

Directions:

In a skillet, brown the ground beef. Drain and cool. When cool, scatter all over a large plate covered in wax paper and set in the freezer.

Pour tomatoes into ice cube trays and freeze (I added a little bit of sauce to mine, too!)

In a skillet, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and cook, stirring, until thickened and bubbly. Gradually whisk in the milk. Cook, stirring, until thick and bubbly. Remove from heat and stir in the cheese; add salt and pepper to taste.

Spoon one or two tablespoonfuls of sauce into ice cube trays (you want the ice cubes to be about half full at most). Cover with plastic wrap and freeze for several hours, until completely firm.When everything is well-frozen (the cheese sauce will take the longest to completely freeze), place contents together into freezer bags.

Preparation:

When you are ready to cook, dump the contents of bag into a skillet over medium heat. Cover for 1-2 minutes, then stir. Cover again, and continue to cook, stirring, until sauce cubes are completely melted and everything is heated through.

These also make wonderful gifts for giving to a new mom, homebound seniors, or anyone just needing a break from cooking!!

OAMC- Part II

2010-03-02T15:20:00.007-05:00

Oh, I'm trying to hop back on the saddle of my fast-paced horse today. I've got one leg up, but I'm losing momentum! I got so much accomplished yesterday, I had big dreams for today!!
Last night was a late night for us, and this morning came all too quickly! I've been doing my best to play catch-up with what I had planned on completing last night after the game.

Here's what I've been up to between doctors visits, the preschool run, and waiting for my new mattress to be delivered:
(I became a little more motivated once the delivery men walked in and said, "Oh boy does it smell delicious in here!!" They didn't want to leave!! I'm a true hostess at heart and offered them a meal for the ride, but they said they couldn't.)

Chicken, Rice, and Gravy
Cheeseburger Pasta (skillet meal in a bag) Chicken and Wild Rice Pancakes
Creamy Italian Pasta with Chicken (skillet meal in a bag)
Rigatoni with Sausage and Peppers (skillet meal in a bag)
1 Doz. Mickey Mouse Waffles

Edited to say:

Once A Month Cooking has officially come to an en and I'm exhausted. So...what are my thoughts??
Here are my totals of what's now in my freezers:
1 Doz. waffles
3 pasta skillet meals in a bag
1 tray Chicken, Rice, and Gravy
1 double tray of ziti
3 servings low fat tomato "chili"
2 trays Beef, Rice, and Gravy
Potato Casserole
1lb. Maple Glazed Chicken (in marinade)

I'll easily get at least 15 meals out of this...with leftovers for Coach's lunch!!

Chicken, Rice, and Gravy

2010-03-02T15:06:00.005-05:00

Ingredients:

2C. white rice, cooked

1lb. chicken breast, cooked and cubed

chicken gravy, prepared (amount to your liking)

Directions:

Line bottom of pan with small amount of chicken gravy (if desired.)

Top with rice.

Top with cubed chicken, then top with gravy.

Prepare for freezer.

Defrost overnight in refrigerator. Cover with foil and bake at 375° for about 45mins-1hr. Mix dish well. Top with more gravy if desired (we definitely do!)

Note: you can top with canned biscuits for the last 20mins of baking to make this into a biscuit- topped casserole dish.

Beef, Rice, and Gravy

2010-03-01T11:20:00.003-05:00

Ingredients:

2lbs. ground beef, seasoned and browned

2C. white rice

2C. brown rice

beef or brown gravy...enough for two trays (amount to your liking)

Directions:

Prepare rice to package ingredients. (I like to mix brown and white together to give it a little different flavor, and brown rice is so much better for you!) Allow to cool. Line bottom of trays with rice.

Sprinkle each tray with 1lb. of ground beef each.

Top with gravy. (We like quite a bit, so I make one big batch of low sodium beef gravy...if needed after thawing and baking, you can always add more.)

Label and prepare to freeze.

Thaw and bake at 375° for about 20-30mins, until cooked through.

Note: after thawing you can top with canned biscuits to make this into a biscuit topped casserole .

OAMC- Part I

2010-03-01T11:15:00.004-05:00

We were up and going early here at the Cozy Country household (well, at least I was!) I gotta get rolling...we're going to State's tonight!!!

Between getting all ready and dropped off at school, here's what I've got done off my menu so far...

Ziti (1 deep tray)

Low fat Tomato Chili (6 C...good for 3 lunches for my husband)

Creamy Tomato Pasta

Beef, Rice, and Gravy (2 trays)

Corn Flake Potato Casserole (minus the cornflakes...and bagged in individual portions, since I'm the only one who will eat it!)

For update on progress, click here.

Baked Ziti

2010-03-01T11:02:00.005-05:00

The essentials:

1box ziti macaroni

1 lg. container ricotta

1lb. mozz., shredded (I shred my own)

4C. tomato sauce

1 egg

Directions:

Prepare ziti to package directions. Drain and let cool.

Mix remaining ingredients together in bowl. (save some mozzarella for top>)

Pour into cooled macaroni. Mix well.

Pour into pan coated with a small amount of tomato sauce.

Top with mozzarella cheese.

Prepare to freeze: I wrap my tin pan with foil, then apply tin top. Label and freeze.

Thaw, top with foil, and bake at 400° for 1hr and until bubbly. (I usually take the foil off the last 15mins. to allow top to brown)

Low Fat Tomato "Chili"

2010-03-01T10:51:00.005-05:00

This recipe is called a "Chili", hence the chili powder. Since Coach is "Plain Jim" when it comes to spices, I made this into more of a chunkier stew, or "stoup".

Ingredients:

1 1/2 lbs lean cut boneless beef (I used leftover skirt steak already grilled)

2 1/2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced

14 oz can kidney beans (DO NOT DRAIN!)

1 large onion, chopped (I sub. 1t. onion powder since my husband despises onions...PS- he never suspects the onion powder!!)

1 tbsp chili powder (I omit)

1/4 tsp garlic powder

1/4 tsp pepper

1/4 tsp oregano (I used 1t. since he loves oregano!)

1 tsp sugar

Directions:

In frypan with non stick cooking oil, brown beef. (If your meat is already cooked, you can skip this step. I pulled my steak right out of the fridge, and sliced thinly...this makes it so easy when it's firm.

Then I diced into bite sized pieces.

In large bowl combine remaining ingredients, stirring well. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, add meat and simmer for about 45mins.

Allow to cool.

Pour into freezer container or bags, cover and freeze.

Makes 6C.

To serve, thaw overnight in refrigerator. If not in a casserole sized baking dish already, transfer it to one. Cover. Bake in 325 ° oven for 2 to 2 1/2 hours or until beef is cooked through and tender. Stir and serve

ISO...Freezer Biscuit Recipe!

2010-02-27T14:53:00.005-05:00

Help a sistah out...
I'm "In Search Of" a great biscuit that can be frozen to add to my Freezer Cooking Plan. Kind of like a Grands biscuit. One that can be popped out and warmed in the microwave to go along with the Tomato Chili in my husband's lunchbag. And for cold school mornings with butter and honey...
Thanks!!

I know with all y'all out there, someone's gotta have one!!??
And if you're on the search for some freezer ideas, I'm sure you'll find them at Money Saving Mom!!

Chicken Pot Pie

2010-02-26T11:05:00.004-05:00

Ingredients:
1lb boiled chicken breasts, cubed: $1.79
1 pkg. ready pie crust, like Pillsbury (top & bottom): .90cents (on sale 2/$4, coupon doubled to $1.20)
2 cans cream of chicken soup (reduced fat): $1.96 (coupon used)
1/2 bag frozen peas: free with coupon
1 lg. organic potato peeled and cut into small cubes : .35cents

Instructions:

1. Place one pie crust in pie plate and bake in 350 oven for 15 mins just until beginning to crisp.

2. Peel and cut potatoes into small cubes.

3. Mix soup, potatoes, chicken, and peas together and pour into prepared pie shell.

4. Place remaining pie crust over top (you may cut and lattice it if you like)

5. Bake at 350° for 45mins, until brown on top and filling is bubbly.

Under $5, hearty, and delicious!!

If freezing: Place refrigerated pie crust in bottom of pie plate, but do not bake. Prepare filling as instructed, put on top of crust in dish, and place remaining pie crust over top. Wrap and freeze. Defrost in fridge, then bake at 350° for 45mins to 1hr. until bubbly.

OAMC- Giving it a Try...

2010-02-26T10:36:00.015-05:00

Well, I'm going to do it. I've been thinking about it for months, and I'm finally going to take the plunge and try OAMC (Once A Month Cooking). I do freeze several meals a month when I double certain recipes, but haven't ever dedicated a day or two to preparing them. I'll only be participating on Monday though, since I have doctors appointments the three days after that. (optomistic about my hearing!!)
I received my flyers for our supermarkets sales starting today, so I'll stock up on several inexpensive items, and our local market where we get our organic beef and all-natural, free-range chicken has ground beef on sale and chicken breasts at a discounted price when you make a $50 order. I don't have a $50 order for there, so I'll go in with my mother and sister to bring the total up to $50, and we'll all benefit! Combining orders when making purchases for freezer cooking or bulk purchases really works well...everyone comes out with a little more in their pockets...usually!!
The following looks quite vigorous, and I may not get to all of it! But having the past two days housebound with help (husband home!!) I have gotten a lot done around the house, and am therefore able to prepare for my cooking endeavor! We will see what I really get done!

Here's what's on my menu for Cooking Day:

Ground Beef:
Beef Porcupine Balls
Cheeseburger Pop-Ems or Bacon Cheeseburger Buns
Pizza-Pasta Casserole
Cheeseburger Pasta (Skillet Meal in a Bag)
Beef, Rice, and gravy

Pasta:
Creamy Tomato Pasta (Skillet Meal in a Bag)
Stuffed Shells (will post recipe soon)
Ziti
Rigatoni, Sweet Italian Sausage, Peppers, Sauce (Skillet Meal in a Bag)

Chicken:
Chicken Marsala
Maple Glazed Chicken
Chicken and Wild Rice Cakes
Chicken-Potato Cakes
Chicken Pot Pie
Chicken, Rice, and gravy

LunchBox Lunches:
PB Jammerz (GREAT for school...and can be made with our HFCS-free bread, and organic ingredients!!)
Low Fat Tomato Chili (I have left over skirt steak I will use)

Sides:
Corn Flake Potato Casserole

Some great resources when Freezer Cooking:
Mom'sBudget / Recipes
30 Meals in 1 Day

Linked to: Money Saving Mom and Life As Mom Freezer Cooking Days

The Lunch Bunch

2010-02-25T13:06:00.005-05:00

Today's topic over at FishMama's Ultimate Recipe Swap is lunch. I must admit, I'm not too into lunch. I pick. I'm embarassed to say I enjoy several cups of coffee throughout the morning and by the time lunch rolls around I'm knee-deep in either cleaning, picking up from preschool, doing puzzles or playing games, or fixing lunch for others. I know, I know...same 'ol line. Mom's last on the pecking order. Well, that's just the way it is for me. But when I do pick, it's mostly leftovers (Which my husband loves, BTW! He's the envy of the teacher's room at lunchtime!) My picky eater that's home all day, my 4 year old, (he's not quite there yet to appreciate Mama's good home cookin' just yet!) prefers homemade "cracker stackers": crackers and cheese and fruit, or grilled cheese. But I often have the following for lunches:

Maine Diner's Mac and Cheese (my version)

Quiche

Shepherd's Pie

Even though I'm not a huge lunch fan at home, I just LOVE lunch on the road. Deli sandwiches, or wraps, like this one, wrapped in butcher's paper. Everything tastes better on the road wrapped in butcher's paper!! (Okay, yes, that's strange!)

Roast Beef, Bacon, & Bleu Cheese Wrap

And during the summer since everyone is home and there's usually no set schedule to adhere to (except for when to swim...) I always set a good example and sit down to lunch. (I always seem to eat more in the summer...why is that??) Here are a few of my favorites:

Oriental Chicken Salad

Cherry Chicken Salad Crossiant Sandwiches

Grilled Pizza

Happy Birthday To Me!!

2010-02-25T12:32:00.006-05:00

Another birthday. Ugh. Well, it beat's the alternative, though...at least I'm vertical! (as my husband always jokes!) Today has been one of the best birthdays in a long time... everyone's healthy (aside from my becoming deaf in one ear). I'll take that any day rather than events of birthday's in the past. God knew I could not handle another one like that!

Instead...

Here's what I woke up to this morning... Snow Day!! My whole family is home with me today!!! I am a snow lover, so this is the greatest gift!! We're in for up to two feet here in the Northeast!! WOO HOO!!

Updated 2/26/10: Day two of our snow days! Everyone is home bound again! Loving every minute of it...playing games, baking, crafts (all in between power outages)... though since we've now gotten 3 feet of snow, it's actually too high to walk in, so we haven't been out much, except for the patio area that my husband keeps shoveling. The snowdrifts are 4ft+! Thank goodness for snowplow service!!

Linked to: Finer Things Friday

Wordless Wednesday

2010-02-23T22:19:00.003-05:00

Thriving as a Family

2010-02-23T18:37:00.005-05:00

In our home we strive to make the following our motto. It Works for Us! We always knew it made our family thrive, but Focus On the Family (love this website!!) just made it their focus in their daily email, striving to help others grow as a family. Guess we were already doing something right!!

A Thriving Family Makes Time to ...

1.
Eat Together
2.
Play Together
3.
Attend Church & Pray Together
4.
Invest in Your Kids
5.
Know Where Your Kids Are & Know Their Friends

(Might I just say how embarassing this last one was growing up (#5)...my mother always went to the door when dropping me off at someones home to speak to the parents and to make sure they were home, or called them on the phone before I was allowed to go (even, and especially, when I was in High School). It's just the way it was...I wasn't going to ever get her to stop. Well my friends, I am now my mother. I do the same thing...and my sister with her teens and pre-teens. It works!! Lord help my children when they are teens!!)

Celebrate your family!!

Gratituesday: Never Underestimate the Power of Prayer

2010-02-22T22:11:00.006-05:00

Have you ever sat back and thought about if you were never able to hear the sound of your children's voice ever again? Or your spouse's? Or your siblings, your parents? I haven't. Have you taken for granted hearing the ring of the telephone, the annoying traffic reporter, or even the ever- hated buzz of your alarm clock? I have.

Until now...
For the past month I have battling nasty ear infections, that I have never had before, and chronic pain, fullness, and the sound of a never-ending "hairdryer-like" sound in my left ear. By the end of the first week, the hearing in my left ear was diminishing. I was scrambling back to the doctor for appointments, hoping to nip this before it got any worse. My glands at the side of my ear along the jaw line were now swollen to the size of half a softball. I was in so much pain. By the end of the second week I had no hearing in my left ear and a few days later started to lose hearing in my right. I was not responding to two rounds of different, very aggressive, antibiotics. Anyone that I talked to I asked to pray for me, that my right ear not get any worse. There's power in prayer. I still have hearing in my right ear.

I was finally seen at the ENT specialist and an ear infection (or more likely, a virus) in my left ear spread to the inner ear, and has, most likely, affected my hearing permanently. I am trying my shot at a steroid that sometimes can restore some of the hearing, but that could be years, or, not at all.

Yes, this is devastating news...especially since the "hairdryer" in my ear is probably here to stay due to damage. (Can I just tell you how absolutely frustrating that is!!) But, my silver lining I figured out while driving home is I have lost hearing in my left ear, but I still have hearing in my right, Praise God! Had things not gone so well last week I could be completely deaf. Probably not being able to hear my children's laughter ever again...their crying or calling for me at night... their sweet "thank you's", "God bless you's", or "I love you's". Never hearing my husband's voice again.

For that, I am grateful. Grateful for the constant blowing of the hairdryer sound. And grateful for the prayers of my family and friends.

Don't stop praying...never underestimate the power of prayer. I could wake up tomorrow full hearing, like this nightmare never happened.

Linked to: Gratituesday

A Coupon Lover's Valentine...

2010-02-13T21:10:00.006-05:00

Last year I made my husband this for Valentine's Day. He loved it. (I was trying to recreate this chipboard album...) So keeping with the theme (frugal and homemade), and being so in to coupons and all (isn't everyone??), it was fitting and so this year I went with the flow and made him an envelope of "coupons".

Coupons entitling him to a "Remember When" back scratch (before kids...when I had the time... and the pretty nails!!), a Romantic Movie night (where he picks the movie...oh, I can't wait...), A pass for a "Guilt-Free" night out (his unmarried coaching buddies will thank me for that!!), and I even threw in a "Wild Card" because I was feeling daring...(can't wait to see what that gets cashed in for!!)

I made a little envelope to go along with them, along with a little note. Just a fun, flirty gift for my Coach. It was fun to make, and didn't cost a thing!!

Pottery Barn Kids the Frugal Way

2010-02-12T23:30:00.003-05:00

I must admit I am a bit of a Pottery Barn junkie...and that goes for Pottery Barn Kids, too. My heart shrieks with excitement every time I flip open the mailbox and see...the catalog. However, my pocketbook does not allow the financing of such a habit, so I clip out items and pictures and put them in my "Idea" file. I use the catalog for inspiration in decorating, gifting, and crafts. Many similar items can be found at Target, Marshalls, TJMaxx, and HomeGoods, and many things in the kids catalog you can actually make yourself!! Which is what I did for my kids Valentine mailboxes.

I have been eyeing these up for the past few years, but couldn't bring myself to spend the $26+ for each. (But can you believe they sell out every year??!! Who has the money??!!) So, this year was the year...I was making them myself. And had I known how easy it was, I would've made them long ago...

1 hour and $1.08 later...

My son's mailbox...he requested I not use so many hearts or make it look so "girly"...because hearts are for "giiirrrrrllllls"..... spoken like a true 4 year old!!

My daughter's mailbox...she decorated her own and went wild with the hearts. Because she's a giiiiirrrrlllll!!!

I used an empty cereal box and cut the top flaps off. I then glued (with a glue stick) red felt around the sides, tucked in the top and taped and glued inside the top, and then wrapped the bottom like a present and glued again.
I then stitched with yarn around the sides. Then I attached the top mail flap and stitched that on the back and stitched around the sides of that as well.

Then I attached a little "hook" by stitching a strip and attaching velcro tabs as a closure. The original PB one has backpack loops, but if I used those we wouldn't be able to use them on the chairs at home, so I just made one loop. Whatever works...

Don't let a low budget stop you from enjoying the things that you like (I'm talking holiday decor, crafts, etc...) Just use your imagination and try to figure out how to make it yourself!! A little ingenuity and patience is all you need! Monica has another Pottery Barn Kids craft idea , too!! I would've tried that one as well, but my printer is all out of color ink at the moment, and I'm all outta time!! Next year!!

Visit here to see what frugal "couponing" gift I made for my husband this year!!

Happy Valentine's Day, y'all!!

Linked to: Frugal Friday

You Get What You Work For

2010-02-12T08:41:00.004-05:00

Winning means you're willing to go longer, work harder, and give more than anyone else.

Any coach's wife can relate to this post...

This time last year we were in the middle of a tough basketball season. A "rebuilding" year. Usually, it takes a good 3-4 years to take over and rebuild a team. Well, today we're celebrating an 8-win run, and a seat at the State Playoffs. We got the 5-seed in Counties, and, yes...we're going to States!!!! God is Good!!
What a great team my husband has this year, and they are walking with their heads high, and full of glory. We're so proud of them! His message to them this season has been "Remember...there is always a little boy in the stands that wants to be just like you, don't disappoint him" and they have risen to the occasion!
Commitment, Teamwork, Responsibility, Focus, Communication, Preparation, Effort, Confidence... That is our Basketball Team this year...and we are celebrating them on this Finer Things Friday!!

Our Little Dot on the Map

2010-01-29T12:18:00.004-05:00

Painting: Small Town USA

Beverly A. Mitchell

I am celebrating so many fine things this Friday, so I'll have to share them for the next few weeks...

I am so thankful for living in my teeny-tiny little town. The kind of place where the postmaster lets my little guy post date the mail when we go in. He even knows all of the post office boxes by name and the face to go with the number!!(comes in handy when you have thank-you notes to send, and a class list with no addresses...only phone numbers!!). The kind of place that people you don't even know (yes there are some here we don't know, believe it or not) wave to you when you pass by. The kind of place where coaches from other "smallish, but not teeny-tiny" towns, rivals, email you to congratulate you on big wins. Where people are genuinely happy for one another. It takes a village to raise a child, and I'm so thankful to be living in a great one!!

Linked to: Finer Things Friday

No Es Mexicana "Enchilada"

2010-01-27T19:01:00.008-05:00

Our family...we're pretty much a "meat-and-potatoes" type of clan. I don't think I've ever served up a taco, made a pot of "Five Alarm Chili", or wrapped a burrito (aside from swaddling my newborn babies!!). We're just not spicy. Our personalities are, but our taste buds, not so much.

After all week of being locked indoors with sick children, I took some time to watch one of my Tivo'd shows...imagine that!! Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives. Warning: Do NOT watch while famished, stressed, depressed, sleep deprived, or any other time when your resistance is low. It will make you so hungry, you could literally, eat a horse!! (Okay...not that I know from experience or anything ;) !!)

Well, Guy (the host of Triple-D) visitied with many restaurant-goers while they were delving into cheesy, delicious looking enchiladas. I had never had an enchilada. After they showed how they were made and what ingredients were used we (my family and I) would probably not eat the conventional, regulation made enchilada. However, I had to have one...at that very minute!! They looked so good!! I do love soft tortillas, seasoned ground beef, and cheese... so how could I make this delicious looking creation work?

Here's what I came up with:

The Not-so-Mexican, "No Es Mexicana ", "Enchilada"

6 soft tortillas (I had flour ones on hand, but next time will be using whole grain)

3/4 lb. cooked ground beef, seasoned with Mortons or Lawry's Seasoning Salt

1 1/2 C. tomato sauce

1C. Shredded Cheddar (I've been in with sick kids all week and haven't been to the store, so we were out, but I did have Campbell's Cheddar Cheese Cooking Soup, so I cooked that up and used that instead)

1. Line bottom of baking dish with a thin coating of tomato sauce.

2. Place a good amount of meat inside middle of tortilla.

3. Fold in the sides and then roll/wrap the tortilla and place in baking dish seam side down.

4. Top burritos with remaining tomato sauce to prevent drying out in the oven.

5. Cover with shredded cheese (or in this case, cheese sauce).

Cover dish with foil and bake at 375° for 15 mins. Carefully remove the foil...watch the steam!!

These are SO delicious...SO creamy...SO filling...SO budget-friendly...and just SO GOOD!! (I could only eat one!!) It's like having a cheesy Sloppy Joe without the huge roll to go along with it!! This is my new go-to recipe for when I need to prepare a meal for my husbands football or basketball teams!!

I guess you could serve these with Spanish Rice (if you like) or beef flavored Rice-A-Roni, and a vegetable.

Cost Breakdown: (for 6)

Flour Tortillas: .60

Ground Beef: $1.26

1/2 Can of Cheddar soup: .50

Tomato Sauce: .25

$2.61

Grilled Chicken with Bacon & Cheese- Under $5

2010-01-27T11:15:00.005-05:00

(The picture does not do this meal any justice)

Grilled Chicken with Bacon & Cheese

1lb. grilled boneless chicken breast (I use a little less...I slightly freeze the breasts, then thinly slice them, then pound them thin...I got 6 pieces.)

6 slices crisp bacon

4 slices american cheese (or any other cheese you choose)

2T. BBQ sauce

First grill your chicken, either in a pan or on your grill. (I grill the whole 1.75lb. package, and use the other half for another nights dish)

Brush lightly with BBQ sauce for flavor, top with crisp bacon and cheese (I slice the cheese to fit the chicken breasts as not to waste). My husband does not like BBQ sauce...but loves this dish. I won't tell if you don't!!

Either continue grilling on low on your grill, in your pan, or you can put under broiler on low for about a minute. You decide.

Cost breakdown:

Chicken breasts: $1.85

bacon: $.54

cheese: $.64

BBQ sauce: free (couponing)

Total: $3.03

Hear ye! Hear ye! I'm "The Biggest Loser"

2010-01-27T10:30:00.003-05:00

Okay...all bets are off people. I am a "Pantry Eating Challenge" loser. A dropout. I could not do it. Truth be told, I never started. I just could not get my act together after the holidays to sit down and focus on a month's challenge of meals...with the little we had in the house/pantry/freezer and no good deals on the horizon. (Unless, of course, we were going to eat from cans for the month since every store is now having "Can-Can Sales"). Chef Boyardee anyone?? No thanks. So, I've been restocking for the month, and I think I'm now ready to start the challenge...just about a month late.

Here are some of the great deals I've found this month to help stock up. Needless to say I stocked my fridge, freezer, and pantry to the max with these sales! I'm able to feed our family, and frequent dinner guests since it's that time of year and my husband is having his Seniors over every now and then for College planning.

Ground beef: $1.68/lb.
Boneless chicken breast: $1.99/lb.
Frozen organic veggies: 12 bags free with coupons
5lb. organic potatoes: $.78
Organic tomato sauce/pasta sauces: $.65
Whole grain pastas: $.78 box
2lbs. white and brown rice: $.77
bacon: $1.88/lb.

Another great and frugal find (don't know why I didn't look for these sooner...since I'm a loyal shopper there!!) at Sam's Club: Can't beat these deals with a stick!!
Bulk Yeast: 2 lbs: $4.16!!
25lbs All-Purpose Unbleached Flour: $7.83
So...I'll be baking up all of our rolls, breads, and pizza dough (when I make sicilian...we still have shells from Sam's which are still our fave for regular pizza!!)

I have all of the ingredients on hand to prepare the following meals. Here's what will be on my menu plan this month (and longer):
Many of these meals are Under $5!
Meatloaf
Bowties alfredo with grilled chicken
Penne Vodka w/ grilled chicken
Cheeseburger Pie
Shepherds Pie
Burgers on the grill (homemade rolls)
Lasagna
Stuffed Shells
Chicken Potato Pancakes
Chicken & Wild Rice Pancakes
Ziti
Stuffed French Toast
Penne/Cavatelli & Broccoli
Creamy Chicken
Potroast
Quiche
London Broil
Chicken, rice, gravy
Porcupine Balls/Mashed Potatoes
Teryaki Chicken, Vegetables & Rice
Spaghetti & Meatballs
Chicken Fried Chicken
Chicken Parmesan
Chicken Soup
Potato Soup w/ bacon & cheese
Beefaroni
Sloppy Joes (homemade rolls)
Grilled chicken, bacon & Cheese
Popcorn Chicken
Crispy beef & Broccoli (recipe to come)
Crispy beef & fried rice (recipe to come)
Chicken fried rice (recipe to come)
"No Es Mexicana" "Enchilada"
Ravioli
Chicken Alfredo Pizza
Pizza
Sicilian Pizza (recipe coming soon!!)

Side dishes of: veggies, rice, mashed potatoes, baked potatoes, roasted potatoes.

I figure my weekly shopping lists will consist of: (Budgeting for $20 wk.)
cheese
milk
yogurt
fruit
veggies

An "Eating from the Pantry" challenge is a great idea...any month of the year! And doing it when I'm prepared, stocked, and ready Works for Me!!
Linked to: Works for Me Wednesday

Creamy Turkey and Wild Rice Soup

2010-01-03T21:27:00.004-05:00

A most delicious soup...one bowl is a huge meal! Filling, absolutely delicious, and warms your whole body, especially during these windstorm laden, 14° days we've been having!

Creamy Turkey & Wild Rice Soup

1/2c. diced onion
1c. chopped carrot
8T. flour
1/2t. chicken seasoning
6T. butter
1 1/4C. half and half
4C. turkey broth (I make my own)
1C. water
3C. diced cooked turkey
1.5C. wild rice
Salt, pepper, herbs to taste
Crisp, cooked bacon

Cut carrots to 1/4" pieces.
Add olive oil to stock pot and saute the veggies.
Add broth, water, turkey, and rice. Bring to a boil, then simmer about 40mins.

In a saucepan, melt the butter over med-high heat. Add the flour and chicken seasoning and whisk it well, it will combine easily. Keep whisking and add 1 1/4 cups half and half. Whisking still, let this come to a boil and thicken. You want it to coat a spoon but not get too thick. When it’s thick enough remove it from the heat. (If too thick, add some milk)
After soup simmers for about 40mins, or when rice plumps up and becomes tender, add cream mixture to simmering soup and stir to combine.
Sprinkle crisp bacon on top.

Your soup is ready to serve or cool before going into the freezer.

2010...

2010-01-01T14:57:00.012-05:00

Happy New Year to All!!

Wow....can you really believe it's 2010??!! Shouldn't we all be "driving" around in flying cars, having a robotic oven prepare our meals (think Jetsons), etc??!! Or that's what we thought 2010 would be like, way back when!!

We happened to have a super New Year's Eve last night. It wasn't looking too promising early on, with snow, a cancelled babysitter, and so on, but ended up being one of our most enjoyable. Each New Year's Eve since we've been married with children, we have never gone out. We always made a "snacky" dinner, with mini-sized foods, etc., donned our hats and tiaras, and blew a few horns. We danced with the kids, and had our own "Rockin Eve" of sorts. We were pretty much in bed by 10pm. We always had a great time.

Our New Year's Eve "venue"

This year though we were invited by two other couples to join them at a local restaurant for dinner. (One couple we knew, the other we didn't...but turns out I attended elementary school with the husband!!) We dropped the kids by my parents (with snacks, hats, and horns...oh they were thrilled to go to Nana and Papa's house by themselves!!) and had a great night!! We laughed, oh we laughed!! We shared dating stories, wedding stories, birth stories, and family stories. The food was great, and the company, even better.
We picked up our pajama-clad children, refreshed and excited for the new year, and headed home in the blizzard.

Eight years without being out for a New Year's celebration, just the two of us, was too long. This night was just what we needed! We're so thankful, and grateful, to have true, generous friends, old, and new!!

Cheers to the New Year!!

Linked to: Finer Things Friday

What to do with those Frozen Cookies??!!

2009-12-29T10:58:00.004-05:00

Since going through our freezers to start our January Challenge, many of us might find an overabundance of cookies...I know I did. I made extras, received many as gifts, and had leftovers from our parties.
What to do with them? How can you refresh them to, well, fresh??

Stored cookies (say, stored in a bag or container) can be “refreshed” to just-baked chewiness. Simply place them on a microwave-safe plate and microwave at full power for 30 seconds or bake them at 425° for four to five minutes. Make sure to let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a couple of minutes before removing them, and consume them while they're warm.

For frozen cookies, a little heat, either four or five minutes in a 350° oven or microwaved on full power for 30 seconds, brings back a fresh-baked taste. Once cooled to room temperature, they're nearly as good as fresh. Your secret is safe with me!!

Linked to: Kitchen Tip Tuesday

January Challenge/Pantry List

2009-12-29T10:22:00.007-05:00

I'm always up for a good challenge. And some ladies around the blogosphere has put a shout-out to those who want to "stay out of the stores" this month (January) and eat from their fridges, freezers, and pantries. So...I might as well hop on board as much I can. Saving a little money this month wouldn't hurt!!
I don't know if I can strictly "stay out of the stores" all month long, but I'm certainly going to try to cut down my trips to bi-weekly at most. And here is a list of items to start off your stocking your fridge, freezer, and pantries:

Pantry

EVOO (Extra Virgin Olive Oil)
light brown sugar
Canola Oil
powdered sugar
Vegetable Oil
honey
basil pasta (all different kinds)
nutmeg rice (white and wild)
ginger
canned fruits
oregano
nuts (peanuts, walnuts, pecans, almonds, etc.)
cinnamon
baking soda
onion powder
baking powder
garlic powder
dried cherries
oats (not quick cooking)
raisins/craisins
peppercorns (and a mill)
canned potatoes
crushed/diced canned tomatoes
boxed mac and cheese (at least in our home)
tomato sauce
pretzels
chicken stock (I make my own)
kosher salt
all-purpose flour
yeast
sugar
Lemon pepper seasoning
Lawry's Seasoned Salt
cocoa powder
white vinegar
dry white wine
pure vanilla
apples
bananas
potatoes

Fridge

ricotta
salad (lettuce, etc.)
yogurt (vanilla)
eggs
cream cheese
mozzarella
parmesan
lemon juice
carrots
herbs
milk
half and half
apple juice
butter
cheddar (block)
swiss (block)
White american (sliced)
light sour cream

Freezer

homemade bread crumbs
frozen chicken stock (freeze in ice cube trays)
chicken breasts
ground beef (in pkg. or cooked/seasoned)
corn
peas
string beans
pearl onions
broccoli
cavatelli
filled pastas (ravioli, tortellini)
berries
roasts
steak
apple juice concentrate (has saved me many times)

Did I leave something out that is a must in your pantry, etc? Let me know!! I may be missing out!!
Visit MSM or LifeAsMom for some more challenge ideas!!

Supper Time: December 28, 2009-January 2nd, 2010

2009-12-28T09:14:00.009-05:00

Yes, yes, still alive here. I've had to take some time off in the Cozy Country to catch up on holiday happenings, for illness, parties, gifts, and teacher luncheons (Did I also mention it's basketball season around here??!!). The craziness has gone (somewhat), and I am eager to get back to business!
Which brings me back to meal planning. Boy do I ever need to be back on a schedule! I've gotten some great cookbooks for Christmas, and I'm eager to put them to work!!
Here's what's being served up this week:

Sunday: Dinner at my sister's. My other sister is headed back down south in the morning, so we're taking advantage of one last get-together.
Spaghetti and meatballs
Garlic bread

Monday: Daddy has a holiday tournament game so we're going to have an early dinner before he has to leave. Not quite sure we're going to get there, since little country-girl is now nursing what seems to be another cold!! How can that be possible??!!
Leftover Christmas dinner:
turkey
ham
mashed potatoes
cranberry sauce
corn
green beans
rolls

Tuesday:
Baked ziti
homemade rolls
salad

Wednesday:
All-American Cheeseburgers (Crock pot meal)
baked steak fries
corn on the cob

Thursday: (New Years Eve)
Hors d'oeuvres party
Cheesesteak Hoagie Ring (read here why this is an excellent choice)
Pigs in a Blanket
cheese fondue
homemade pizza
chips/dips

Friday: New Years Day Menu ~ Welcome 2010
MY 1ST BLOGGING ANNIVERSARY!!

Ham
Scalloped Potatoes
green beans

Saturday:
Creamy Turkey and Wild Rice Soup (From The Pioneer Woman Cooks cookbook...one of my gifts!!)
Homemade bread

For more meal planning ideas, visit Org. Junkie!

Thrifty Christmas Finds

2009-12-03T23:26:00.007-05:00

I love thrift stores. We have a few around here, and one of my favorites is at one of our local churches. Check out a few of the things I picked up last week:

A vintage ceramic Santa boot .45 cents

A Boyd Bear Christmas Moose .50cents

He fits right in on my Boyd Bear Christmas tree. (We have two trees...an heirloom, heritage tree in our Living Room with all of our family treasured ornaments, and a "kids tree" with my Christmas Boyds and all of the kids favorite ornaments in the Family Room).

I also picked up a vintage Santa metal serving tray in excellent condition for .10cents! No scratches, etc, so I will be using it next weekend for our Open House! It's beginning to look a lot like an old-fashioned Christmas!!

Linked to: Finer Things Friday and Frugal Friday

M.I.A.

2009-12-01T22:12:00.003-05:00

Yes...I'm still alive. I have been Missing-In-Action for three weeks now. In those three weeks I have hosted two fourth birthday parties (one involving 13 little boys), helped my sister endure her youngest's emergency surgery, run a preschool Thanksgiving Feast, made two Thanksgiving costumes, attended Thanksgiving dinner with each family (thank goodness I didn't host this year!), attended Black Friday festivities, as-well-as hopped online at 4 am for the best deals, made two dozen cinnamon rolls with hot chocolate and organized a craft for 13 first graders in honor of my daughter being Star of the Week, helped my husband organize an Alumni Basketball game for the day after Thanksgiving and ran the snack bar. (Yes...the day after Thanksgiving marked the opening of basketball season here, and my husband is the head coach...) Oh, and visitied with my sister who I rarely get to see who was in from Italy for all of 13 hours!!! Did I also mention I'm hosting a Pajama Party for 8 little girls here next week celebrating my daughters 7th birthday, and then the next night having 52 people for a holiday open house??
Yes...I've been missing around here, but hopefully not for much longer. I have so many things to share...ideas, recipes, decorations, and this-and-that's. I hope to see you back here soon!
'Tis the Season...I guess!

Need to Make Some Extra Cash??

2009-11-10T18:11:00.009-05:00

Then go to bed with my husband.

No, really...last night I made $2.73 (and a fine tipped pen). This morning I went to make our bed and I found, under the sheets, what appeared to be my tip for the night. The further I dug into the sheets, the more bills I found. Apparently my husband fell asleep in his sweatpants he wore to practice that day (I know...yes, it grosses me out, too, which is why when I found dried out grass pieces, instead of making our bed, I was changing it!!) while watching the Steelers into the night, and his belongings in his pockets were "deposited" into the bed.

So the chambermaid took herself out for a cup of coffee...
Hey... finders-keepers, right??!!

I hope you got a little giggle...now visit here for more Works For Me Wednesday...

With Love, On Our Anniversary...

2009-11-05T23:09:00.002-05:00

A marriage anniversary is the celebration of love, trust, partnership, tolerance and tenacity. The order varies for any given year.

Together we've worked hard to get where we are today...Together we've grown in so many ways- and most of all, in love. It doesn't matter where you go in life, what you do...it's who you have beside you. Side by side- year by year.

On Wednesday, November 4th, we celebrated our 8th Wedding Anniversary! Nowadays, that's no easy feat! Since our marriage, we've buried a father, two grandmothers, many friends, and our best man. We've endured three pregnancies and given birth to two healthy, beautiful children. Everything we've shared has only made us stronger, together. I know the future holds even more happiness for us.

My mother offered to babysit for us on our Anniversary and my parents gave us a gift to a wonderful Italian restaurant. We both asked eachother...would you do it all again? Our answer: Absolutely!! We wouldn't change a thing!!
“I don't pretend to know what love is for everyone, but I can tell you what it is for me; love is knowing all about someone, and still wanting to be with them more than any other person, love is trusting them enough to tell them everything about yourself, love is feeling comfortable and safe with someone, but still getting weak knees when they walk into a room and smile at you.”

My husband, and my marriage...two Finer Things I am so proud of! Here's to many more!!

Works for Me Wednesday...Save Your Receipts!!

2009-10-27T21:43:00.009-04:00

I'm not necessarily a "name-brand" girl. I do, however, like good quality things. My motto is pay more now, pay less in the long run. Most of my children's clothes come from Gymboree and Hanna Andersson (since they wash so well...you can literally have them forever!) and if they're damaged in some way from normal wash and wear, you can return them for store credit as long as you have your receipts. (Did you know LLBean guarantees every piece of clothing...for life??!! And that's why most of my and my husbands digs are from there!!!) My philosophy goes for furniture and bedding as well. I made a rather large purchase at Bed Bath and Beyond back in early spring. I bought a Liz Claiborne bedding set. We're talking the whole sha-bang...throw pillows to match, extra shams, etc. (We had gift cards to use...that's the only reason I went "all out"!!!) So, this fall when I was changing out our spring-summer bedding for our Down Comforter, I followed the manufacturers instructions to wash it. I have a large capacity washer, so it wasn't necessary to go to the laundry mat. Lo and behold, I took out the comforter to hang to dry and the whole corner was shredded. The fabric just gave way and stuffing was all over the place. I was devastated.

I still had the receipt and the packaging (the big plastic zippered bag it came in), so I packaged it up and headed back to the store. (Hey...at $400 for the set, it shouldn't have fallen apart!!) I showed the manager and she agreed but said they no longer carried it...it was clearanced at the end of the summer. Good thing I had my receipt!!! We got full credit for the bedding set. (I couldn't keep all the throw pillows and shams without the comforter they matched!) So these nights I'm enjoying new micro fleece sheets, and awaiting a new mattress memory foam topper (hoping to avoid having to purchase a new mattress...oh, our aching backs!!).

Moral of the story??: Be organized. Keep receipts in one place (and remember where), and categorize them by store. I had absolutely no intention of returning my beautiful Liz Claiborne bedding. At that price, I was sleeping in it forever! But under the circumstances, saving my receipts Worked for Me! Had I not had it...the store credit I would have received? $89 bucks! A big difference compared to $400!

Our Sports Family

2009-10-23T08:43:00.009-04:00

My husband taught and coached football and basketball for his Alma Mater for 11 years. When we got engaged, it was announced over the loudspeaker at the State Playoff game that year, when we got married, the entire football team showed up at the church (I knew what I was "signing up" for, so our wedding, during football season, was strategically planned for a Sunday, the day after a State playoff game, and during a bye week, he was back to practice the next afternoon, and yes, I scouted along with my new husband during my honeymoon!!), and the following year, the booster club, coaches, players and their families threw us a baby shower...since I was very pregnant at the State Final game that year (She waited until three days later to arrive!! She learned early to plan around sports!!). They were our extended family. When we moved from our first house to where we live now, we were an hour and some minutes away. It was quite the haul to bring the kids to the games, only to have them last for maybe a quarter, if I was lucky. We slowly made less trips to see Daddy's games. After four years of the commute, and six state championships later, Daddy was ready for a change and a challenge. We would miss our sports family...
Last year he began teaching and coaching at our hometown high school...just eight minutes away!! Our new sports family has welcomed us with open arms. We make mostly every game now, and my daughter sports her cheerleading uniform and cheers with the high school cheerleaders the second half of each game. My son proudly sports his "jersey" (which I made since the 'real' ones were so big, and so expensive!!) that says Coach's Son...he's #00... and attends the teams practice and dinner every night before a game. He looks forward to this all. week. long!!! As soon as we pull in the parking lot, he rips his carseat straps off and yells "Gotta go Mom...I got practice now!!" My husband says he sits through the game film that night and doesn't make a sound. My three year old??!! This is his thing. Last week he was in his glory. His daddy brought him on the sidelines the last few minutes of the game (granted we were winning 40-0, so all were in a joyous mood), but the boys were coming off the field and he was high-five'ing his "teammates", as he calls them.

We took a leap of faith, and it worked out. We've planted our roots, and made our home. My husband summed it up with one phrase... "I feel like I've been there 10 years, they've accepted us so warmly." (And you coach's wives out there know how much that means!!!)
Our sports family...they are truly a Finer Thing.

Fellow Coach's Wives... Unite!!

2009-10-22T21:28:00.006-04:00

We coach's wives need to stick together. And every dream of a coach and his family is to be able to say the words "I'm going to Disneyland!!" after a big win. Well, that's just what I'd like to help my friend, and fellow coach's wife, Amy to be able to say after her "big win".
Head on over here to vote for her and her tiny-town lovin' family to win a trip to Disneyland...the most magical place on earth!!

Wild Kingdom

2009-10-21T10:53:00.006-04:00

Okay...I'm not old enough to remember the original Mutual of Omaha's Wild Kingdom show (started airing in 1963), I actually wasn't even thought of at that point...try about 13 or so years later, but my husband and sister are 10 years my senior, and remember the show from the 1970's. They affectionately refer to where we live as "Wild Kingdom".
We have many a bear, deer, coyotes, turkeys (coming out of our ears...anyone need one for Thanksgiving??!!), raccoons, skunks, possums, foxes, and the occasional Canadian Bobcat. Well...we have a new neighbor in town. A MOUNTAIN LION!!! A neighbor of ours (we don't have any 'real neighbors' per se) but a man down the road is an avid hunter in our surrounding woods and sets up a motion sensored camera to track deer and bear paths. Well...his camera captured a mountain lion with a doe in it's mouth just the other day.
This is getting a little too wild for me!
Bears, bobcats, mountain lions...Oh My!!!

Pumpkin Pie Spice

2009-10-21T08:44:00.006-04:00

Ever find yourself needing Pumpkin Pie Spice for a recipe, being absolutely sure you have some, only to find out that, in fact, you don't?? Don't fret...you can make your own!

Pumpkin Pie Spice:

1T. Ground Cinnamon
2t. Ground Ginger
1/2t. Ground Nutmeg

Mix together well. Store in tight container.

For a sweetened version...add 2T. Sugar (great for sweetened homemade whipped cream or on buttered toast....MMMMmmmmm!)

Linked to: Life as Mom URS

Our first Noreaster!!

2009-10-15T20:44:00.007-04:00

Here was the view outside my kitchen door yesterday morning. My son ran to the window and yelled excitedly, "It's winter!!!" I said, "yes, buddy, it is winter." Oh, Wait a minute....it's October 15!!!! We still have two months and six days left of fall, and here we are in the middle of our first Noreastern snow of the season! I just love when it snows. I love everything about it. We have four-wheel drive vehicles, so I don't even mind driving in it!! A low of 26 ° and it snowed all. night. long.

So, call me crazy, but our snowstorm, for me at least, was a Finer Thing!!

Edited to say: Husband had a game the next day...sitting on the bleachers in the middle of "blizzard like" snow... Finer Thing?? Not so much!!

'Tis the Season!!

2009-10-14T11:52:00.009-04:00

With two doctor visits in 10 days, a phone call from the school nurse to pick up my daughter early, two sick children at home...one with a sinus infection, the other with a cold, I'd like to share with you what's Workin' for Me this Wednesday: (I just KNOW y'all can relate!!)

#1. DRIVE-THRU CVS!!! Need I say more??!! 20 mins away, five minutes from the pediatricians office. (This could be one of the most important and most valuable one yet!!)

#2. Boogie Wipes...yes, they do just what they say they do! Go here for more info and a coupon.

#3. Lil' Critters Gummy Vites Calcium and Vitamin D chews (for a picky eater like my three year old, it comforting to know that even though his diet these days consists of waffles, pancakes, mac and cheese and yogurt, he's still getting his calcium!!)

#4. Lil' Critters Gummy Vites Immune C with Zinc. We need all the help we can get these days. An extra boost of C and Zinc to help speed things along...and they taste great! I even take 2 a day!!

Linked to : Works for Me Wednesday

Monster Munch

2009-10-13T11:45:00.003-04:00

Yesterday was a day off from school, so my first grader hosted a "movie playdate". We rented the newly released Monsters vs. Aliens (free from Redbox, of course!!), turned on the fireplace (46° outside warranted a cozy temp indoors!!), and made Monster Munch!!

White chocolate drizzled popcorn (which I popped the old fashioned way...oil and kernels) with candy corns. ( just let the chocolate set a few minutes...) Delish!! The girls ate it right up! Since I'll be planning their classroom Halloween party, they requested this snack be served. I think I'm going to add in pretzel sticks, though.

White chocolate, popcorn, pretzels, and candy corn...Monstrously delicious!!

Thanks to Your Home Based Mom for the recipe!!

Linked to: Tempt My Tummy Tuesday

Finer Things Friday- Classroom Halloween Party Ideas

2009-10-09T08:57:00.005-04:00

When I was a teacher, I had Mom's chomping at the bit to be "Class Mom". One year I even had two grown women ready to "duke it out" in my reading corner in order to capture the title! I thought to myself, this is insane! Fast forward 11 years and here I am...First Grade Class Mom!!

I have so many ideas running through my head for the Halloween Parade and Party in a few weeks, and found a few great websites that are great inspiration for healthy alternatives and better options to a sugar filled, junk food fest, as well as unique ideas for crafts and decorations!

Betty Crocker Hassle-Free Halloween

Disney Halloween Crafts & Recipes

Family Fun Halloween

Amazing Moms Halloween

Teachers Corner Classroom Halloween Ideas

Your Home Based Mom (not only for adorable Halloween treat ideas, but she's got wonderful recipes, craft ideas, and decorating tips!!)

Being Class Mom with so many resources available on the Internet now is so much easier... and that, to me, is a Finer Thing!!

*Just added...a new recipe for Halloween Monster Munch!

Where's the Beef? Recipe Swap

2009-10-08T13:07:00.006-04:00

Today it's Favorite Beef Recipes over at Ultimate Recipe Swap.
Click on the link for my two favorite roast beef recipes...

My Roast with the Most

Cook's Country Classic Roast Beef and Gravy

The secret to a great roast: low and slow!! Low heat, slow cooking!!

Works for Me Wednesday... "Green" Tile Cleaner!

2009-10-07T10:32:00.005-04:00

I've got a few things working for me these past few weeks (and a few not...) but here's one I'm very excited to share with you, because it not only works great, it's eco-friendly!!

We have a farmhouse table in our kitchen with a white tiletop. Not my first choice, but it was a hand-me-down, so we welcomed it with open arms. The table has two leaves which we always have in, and we have a farmhouse bench to go alongside for the kids. I love the fact that it's made of sturdy oak, but the tile...I'm not a fan. It's very difficult to clean and keep clean. I'm an advocate of white vinegar and baking soda, but that would always leave a streaky film and wouldn't get everything out of the crevices of the grout. (I know y'all are thinking "use a tablecloth!!" but we've gone that route and with constant spills, stains, and our entire meals ending up on the floor courtesy of a certain three year old that thought of each tablecloth as his superhero cape...it just wasn't "working for us"!!)

So for the longest time I was a fan of SoftScrub. It was the only cleanser that got it sparkling white, and wiped clean. I hated the smell and the fact that it was so toxic to our indoor air. While I grew tired of the thought of another day of baking soda and vinegar, I had an epiphany of sorts... Dishwasher detergent gets my dishes all sparkly, the "graininess" of the powder acts like a scouring powder...why wouldn't it work? And, the best thing....I use Seventh Generation all-natural, chlorine-free dishwasher detergent...so it's green!

I've found my new solution, folks! The table came out brand, spankin' new. With a damp dishrag or paper towel, sprinkle about a tablespoon of detergent on your tile surface, and scrub away! I know some even have tiletop counters in their kitchen. This would work great! I haven't tried it in a bathroom yet, but seeing the results I had on my tiletop table, I don't see why it wouldn't work as beautifully. I'm sure it would even make a great scourer for the toilet, too! If you have any experience with this, let me know!!

Check out other Cleaning Tips at Works For Me Wednesday!

Chicken Soup for the Fall Soul...

2009-10-01T13:59:00.003-04:00

I just love soup weather! And this week, especially today with a high of 48°, a bowl of homemade soup is just the ticket. Tuesday I hosted a playdate and I served the boys Batman grilled cheese sandwiches, and we Mom's enjoyed sub sandwiches and my chicken soup (click for recipe).

Hop on over to Ultimate Recipe Swap...Fishmama's got the Soup On!!

Friday Night Lights

2009-09-25T13:45:00.005-04:00

I'm a coach's wife. A coach's daughter. A football Mom. A cheerleading Mom. Yes, aside of watching my children forage around the perimeter of our three acre parcel to gather enough leaves to make a pile to jump in, (since the forest surrounding us is the only place where there's trees), my favorite thing about fall is a football game under the lights. There's just something about Friday Night Football. Crisp air. The band electrifying the fans. Freezing your "touckas" off on the aluminum bleachers. Seeing the steam or "fire" as my three year old calls it rise from the players backs. Why else would I be scouting a rival football game on my honeymoon eight years ago??!! Yeah...that's football!!

Linked to: Finer Things Friday

Supper Time: September 20-26th

2009-09-21T08:52:00.007-04:00

Disclaimer: *Meals are subj. to change w/o notice due to unforeseen circumstances, change of plans, migraines or meltdowns!!

**Note: try to use free-range organic or all-natural chicken and beef, and organic fruits and vegetables when possible...and always try to use organic dairy!! We purchase our meats (chicken and beef) from an all-natural, grass fed local farm. All of our dairy and produce is organic. Our other meat items (hotdogs, sausages, ham, bacon) are nitrate-free organic purchased at the health-food store or supermarket. Check out the benefits of going all-natural/organic here.

I had a totally different menu planned for this week, but last night my little guy came down with croup...so, I'm not getting to the supermarket any time soon. And due to a game and Religious Ed. on Saturday, I didn't make it to the farmers market. It's times like this that I'm thankful I have enough stockpile to eat from the freezer and pantry! It pays off to be prepared!

Sunday: Last day of summer BBQ
Tomorrow is the first day of Fall, so my husband was craving one last summer hurrah BBQ. We enjoyed eating on the patio, but when the sun went down, we were shivering while eating in 58° weather!!
Burgers
Hotdogs
chips
fruit

Monday: Chicken tenders
brown rice with chicken gravy
broccoli

Tuesday: Brats and Potatoes
with red and green peppers
(I squirt ketchup in the skillet and mix all together...ymmmm!!)
(my organic potatoes are on their way out, so this is a delicious way to cook them up quickly!)

Wednesday: Beefaroni *recipe below
biscuits

Thursday: Game night...(hopefully...if all are healthy!)
Chinese Chicken (don't forget, when doing Chinese take-out, always specify no MSG!!)
broccoli

Friday: homemade pizza
salad

Saturday: Game day. Two possibilities. If we win, most likely we'll be hosting the coaches after the game and I'll have grilled pizzas and beer [ahem...beverages]. If we lose we'll probably still have the beer but this is what my family will be eating:
fried chicken
mashed potatoes with gravy
corn
peas

Easy Beefaroni:
Cook 1lb. ground beef in skillet until cooked through. Add homemade spaghetti sauce (about 2C.) or jarred organic, then simmer about 15mins. While simmering, prepare pasta of choice, about 3/4-1box. (We love spiral rotini and whole grain is a great pick!!) Drain pasta. Pour pasta into large bowl and top with meat and sauce. Toss to coat. Voila...dinner is served! On the table in about 20minutes!!

Linked to: Menu Plan Monday

A Visit from the Tooth Fairy...

2009-09-18T08:55:00.006-04:00

Yesterday at school my daughter lost her second tooth. How exciting...at school! It's such a big deal when they lose their tooth at school. Their name automatically goes right onto the tooth chart; no need to wait until the next morning. (When I taught second grade it was the same way... the tooth chart was the big thing!) Her only complaint, "If only I'd lost it a few days earlier...I would've been the first. Ryan lost his on Monday!!" Gee whiz...life is hard!

Well, after leaving my husband's game last night in the third quarter (at 9pm!!!) I knew they would be good and exhausted, and it would be an easy visit for the Tooth Fairy. (After losing her first tooth, the tooth fairy flittered into her room at 1:30am, only to find a wide-eyed nosy Nellie awaiting her arrival...around 5am that morning, she was able to make her delivery.) Last night the Tooth Fairy found herself in the same situation. Even though the little princess was "snoring" over the baby monitor, each time she [the Tooth Fairy] tiptoed in, the princess awoke. "Did she come yet...did she come yet?" Mommy said she was just coming to check. When my husband rolled in around 11:30pm, after a big loss, films, you coach's wives know the drill, we were just laughing at how we were going to "make the drop".

Finally, exhausted, the Tooth Fairy stumbled her way in to plant the goods...not risking taking the tooth and waking the princess. Ah...operation completion!! My husband: "You left the tooth? You're not supposed to leave the tooth!" So, thinking about it half the night (oh the guilt we feel as mom's!!) I decided I'd try again to sneak in and take the tooth. After all, she left the first tooth because, it's her first lost tooth. She can't do it again!! So, when I went in this morning to wake her up I swiped the little box before I woke her and slipped it in my pocket. Mission Accomplished!!

All is well in Fairy Land.

Linked to: Finer Things Friday

Score a Touchdown With Your Party Food!!

2009-09-16T23:00:00.007-04:00

Being a coach's daughter and coach's wife football and basketball seasons are just a part of my life. (Aren't they part of everyone's??!!) I joke with my husband in July and say, "See you in March, honey!" With football season comes many, many gatherings. Whether it's the coaches all convening after a game or practice... many times after both, players coming by, or an actual planned party with family and friends, good party food is a must!

Here are some of our favorites.

Sandwich Ring:
In the past, for all of our parties (and we love to party here) I have always ordered a hoagie ring from the deli. These run us from $28-$35, whether we need a medium or large. I slice the ring into sandwiches for each guest. Everyone loves them so they were worth the expense. So, I was so excited to get this recipe! I never even thought of being able to make my own!! Leave it up to Pillsbury!!
I often make these sandwiches into a Philly Cheesesteak Hoagie ring... or a Primanti sandwich (a cheesy burger with french fries and coleslaw on top!) a Steeler original!!

Hot dogs en croute: (sounds better than "pigs in a blanket")
I always make these. I've been making these myself with the crescent rolls for years. SO much cheaper than buying 100 of them (frozen) for $16.99, which they cost here, and they taste so much better!! I buy a large pack of Nathan's cocktail franks at a wholesale club for $6.99, then get my crescents for free or .30 cents, usually, with coupons!

Grilled Pizza:
Our last pizza delivery bill when the coaches stopped by was upwards of $75! We won't be having many more at that price! So, we just grill our own. Comes out to be less than half that!

Linked to: Ultimate Recipe Swap

The Town and Country Cafe...

2009-09-15T23:10:00.002-04:00

Enjoy the scenery.
Have sports. Will travel.
This year as if we didn't already have enough on our dinner plate, I have become my daughters cheerleading coach for the midget football program. Which means, Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday nights, as well as some Saturday afternoons, we'll be running from one game to the other, cheering in our own and trying to see Daddy's games, sometimes being in the same town, but sometimes not (as our league was just restructured and some fields are an hour-and-a-half away!) Many families are on the go during this back-to-school, back-to-sports time of year, along with their dining rituals. Did you know that the flat front of a backpack makes a wonderful "table"? (Just be sure the kids keep their knees and legs even...if not, supper's all over the floor!) One way we conquer avoiding the drive thru (oh, wait...no drive thru's around here) the pizza place, or the field snack bar, is fixing our own "Kid Cuisines". I cook the meal before I pick up the oldest from school, then reheat right before we're ready to leave. I use a medium tupperware container (one that a square cake pan would fit in...or smaller if needed), and fill it with supper...homemade chicken nuggets, carrot sticks, buttered bow ties with parmesan, and a packaged dessert (usually fruit snacks or a granola bar), or a square of lasagna and a nice piece of buttered Italian bread with a baggie of salad...less the dressing! (Note: best to avoid any sauces, creamed veggies, corn in particular, unless it's on the cob. These tend to be messier fares. I've learned from experience!!) Pass back a juice box and a napkin, and dinner's done! We're on the road to wherever it is we need to be!

Dinner on the road in Wildcat Country...Works For Me!

Gratituesday

2009-09-15T16:09:00.006-04:00

Today was my youngest child's first day of preschool. Yes... such a big day. His big sister started first grade about two weeks ago, but today was his turn. He attends a little Christian, age- appropriate preschool two mornings a week in their three year old program, where, believe it or not, I attended thirty years ago. And yes, most of the same teachers are still there! The original teacher just retired in June, after 32 years of service. I am so grateful for the wonderful ladies that teach there. (So this morning we made them apple spice cakes with maple glaze... an apple for the teacher. Or an apple cake, at least! Picture with beloved Spidey backpack to the left...)

My husband texted me as I was dropping off our oldest, saying today was going to be a tough day for me (no tears from my little guy, but his Mama was so sad!!), but we are grateful for their love of school, interest in learning new things, and their smart little minds. He is so right!

Each year before the start of a new school year we pray for the safety, security, peace, hope, and growth of our little students, or "school boy" and "school girl" as we call our children, with this prayer...

"Dear Lord Jesus take my hand
I'm going to a foreign land.
One not ruled by king or preacher,
but someone by the name of teacher.

My mommy says that I'll have fun;
I'll sing and skip and play and run.
But I am scared 'cause I don't know
just what to do or where to go.

So please Lord Jesus hug me tight
and keep me in Your loving sight.
For with you by my side today,
I know that I will be okay."

Linked to: Gratituesday

Patriot Day

2009-09-11T08:30:00.001-04:00

"On September 11, 2001, night fell on a different world, a world where freedom itself is under attack.

We will not tire, we will not falter, and we will not fail."

President George W. Bush

Patriotism.

Our fine service men and women protecting our freedoms.

Living in America, home of the Free and the Brave; nothing can be finer.

At 8:46am today, let us remember all those who perished on that tragic, fateful day. Honor all the volunteers who rushed into burning buildings to help others. Let us help each other on a day better known for mourning the thousands of people killed in the nation's worst terrorist attack.

Happy Labor Day!

2009-09-07T20:00:00.006-04:00

Many TV stations are celebrating Labor day documenting many televised births, so why not document mine! And many bloggers are posting the following, so I guess I'll join suit...

How long were your labors?

My daughter (now almost eight): I had to be induced. I was hospitalized at 27 weeks pregnant with her and on bedrest until I delivered at 37 weeks, right in the middle of football season, I might add! (I had pleuritis of the lungs and pericarditis of the heart). I did experience labor though...I was induced on a Wednesday night at 8pm, and didn't deliver until Friday morning at 2:34am!! Yes, that makes me in labor for 32 hours! And I was in active labor, but never made it past 7cm!!

My son (now almost five): I had a repeat c-section; again, smack dab in the middle of football season...but, of course, scheduled around the game that week!! (yes...next time I'll try to "plan" better!!) I did have contractions though, early labor, at 31 weeks. They stopped it, and delivered him at 38 weeks.

How did you know you were in labor?
I didn't!! :( Yes...felt kinda cheated in this department, but living in a hospital and on bedrest for 10 weeks, and all my health issues wasn't really working for me, so induction they did!!

Where did you deliver?
A hospital an hour away from here. The nearest trauma center and one of the best NICU and perinatology groups in the tri state area!

Drugs?
Uh, yeah! Pitocin was so bad with my first, that I requested an epidural. Euphoric after that, but needed it anyway, since I had an emergency c-section.

With my second...here's a little story. I had a repeat c-section, and needed a spinal. So, like before, I thought no problem, it worked for my previous one. After the spinal was done, they started my cath (in the OR), and I kept telling the nurses that I felt everything that was going on. (meanwhile I was already given the spinal and was supposed to be numb). They insisted I was imagining it and that I wasn't feeling anything. All along, I was whispering to my husband I wasn't numb yet and I was feeling everything. He continued to say "My wife says she can feel everything", and all along they were explaining that the mind does "tricks" on you and you imagine that you can feel things, when you're really not, or something of the sort. Anyway, the drape went up for the surgery to begin. I felt the antiseptic wash squirted across my abdomen, and I continued to say I feel it, to no avail. They announced the beginning surgery time and used the "burning tool" as I call it, not real sure of the name, to cauterize to reduce bleeding and started to cut. I started to scream, "I can feel that...I can feel you cutting!!" Then both doctors looked over the drape with eyes wide and said, "You can feel that??!!" And, crying, I said that's what I was explaining all along!!! The anesthesiologist popped right up from reading his paper and ran over. Turns out only half of my body was anesthetized, and the other not. I saw programs on this...never imagining it would happen to me!!
It took another three spinal attempts to numb me (yes, another three of those huge needles and wires in my back) and after the third failed attempt I heard the anesthesiologist whisper to my perinatologist "I don't want to put this girl out...she's got too many cardiac issues." That was all I needed to hear, and I just said "deliver me...without anything. Just get the baby out!!" Well, with praying the hardest I've ever prayed in my whole life, as well as my husband, the fourth spinal worked. I was numb, but had so much anesthesia in me, that I vomited the full hour it took to deliver him. (so worth it though...but can't say that I forgot the whole thing!!)

C-Section?
Yes...both. Emergency for the first, and repeat for my last. I wanted to go VBAC, but it wasn't recommended. Disappointed, but for the best.

Who delivered?
Being a high-risk pregnancy to begin with (miscarriages and cardiac issues) I used the best Maternal-Fetal medicine group. I absolutely loved my perinatologists, all of them. They are truly miracle workers.

Farm Country...Living the "Simple Life"

2009-09-03T21:55:00.006-04:00

You'd think that with living out here in "farm country" and all we'd have unlimited, direct access to all the farms out here and their livestock, dairy, and produce. Well, unfortunately, that wasn't always the case. Yes we do have farmstands along the side of the road, many of them in fact. But most carry just produce, and whether or not they're organic is really hit-or-miss. One of our favorite farm stands is where we get our beef, chicken, and a lot of our produce, but it's also 20 minutes from here, each way. (I do make my shopping trip coincide with a visit to my parents, since they live right up the road from there...).

Until now. A year round farmers market just opened up less than a mile from our home! Farmers from all over come each Saturday and set up their all-natural, grass fed beef, chicken, and eggs, all natural bakery items, and occasionally they offer some organic produce! The Grand Opening was front page news here, around our tiny little town. (And my two country kids, cowboy boots and all, enjoyed the country girl's music!)

Knowing your farmer. Knowing where your food comes from. Buying local. Supporting our local agriculture. Can't get any finer than that!!

Linked to: Finer Things Friday

My Most Favorite Recipes...Ever!

2009-09-02T22:18:00.007-04:00

Fishmama is putting a shout out for your "Most Favorite Recipe" for her Ultimate Recipe Swap. Well, looking back on my short life thus far (well, not that short, early thirty-something years, but short sounds better) I'm trying to remember my most favorite foods. And, sorry Mom, but I don't think I have any recollection of a favorite before college. (Besides Shepherds Pie...which is really yummy, Mom, but not a fave...)

My first entree, or meal, or this is actually qualified as a side dish, but believe me, I've had it many a times as a meal, is HashBrown Casserole. Originated in my most favorite family restaurant (Cracker Barrel), and perfected, or tweaked as a bit healthier and more organic or all natural, by yours truly.
Ingredients:
4 C. shredded potatoes (I use organic)
1/4 C. melted butter
1/2 of prepared cream soup...I make my own (recipe here) with 1 T.chicken seasoning and 3-4T. chicken stock added...I make my own stock, too. ( I used half of the prepared "soup"...saving the other half to use in another recipe)
1/2 pint sour cream
1T. onion powder
2 C. shredded cheddar

Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 350 and spray an 11x14 baking dish with cooking spray
2. Mix the above ingredients together, spread in prepared pan and bake for 45mins. or until golden brown on top.

And I cannot in a clear conscience pick just one favorite. I do have another dish, well, actually a salad, that my tastbuds just crave every time I think about it...like they are right now...
KB's Oriental Chicken Salad. Now that I've mentioned it...it's going to have to accompany me to the football coaches annual family picnic this weekend. AAaahhhhh...To die for!! (Oh, and did I mention it's a salad...so basically it's guilt free!!)

Works for Me Wednesday: Our Daily System

2009-09-02T08:45:00.006-04:00

Football and cheerleading practice. Boys and girls basketball. Summer sports camp schedules, and vacation scheduling. Three Back to School nights, three sets of Parent-Teacher Conferences. Birthdays, anniversaries, school and sports pictures. You get the picture. Each family has so much going on! Running here and there, how do we make it on time, or even make it there at all??!!

My family and my home would not function if it weren't for our "Daily System". It was my best Pottery Barn purchase to date, and I wouldn't trade it for the world. The only thing that worries me...when the wall comes down in the kitchen to make room for my "forever wanting" island (which it'll soon be tumbling down!!), I don't yet know where I'm going to put it. Operative word: yet.

Component #1: Our calendar. Our brain as I affectionately call it, since that's all we need to look at in the morning to see where we're going, and when. Each of us...even the children. (My daughter had a playdate over yesterday, and the little girl said, "Oooohhhhh...I wish my mommy had one of those!!! She never knows what we're doing...and we're always LATE!!")

Bless her little six year old heart...but kids know. They thrive on structure!!) We have a brain on the wall for all to see, and a book brain for the entire year. No need to go out and buy one...I've done that...they just fall apart after a few months of constant use. I printed out calendars from the computer, punched holes, and popped them into a three pronged folder (one of the perks of having a teacher in the family...we always have school supplies around. Not necessarily in the fashionable colors I prefer, but free. Beggars can't be choosers!!)

This stays in the calendar mailslot so we always know where it is.

Other components: As well as the "Calendar and Notepaper" mailslot to hold our paper calendar and for messaging by the phone, we have a "Mom" mailslot, for important school papers, medical prescriptions, etc, "To be Filed" for paid bill slips, insurance papers, etc, and "Mail" mailslot...for incoming and outgoing, as well as address labels, stamps, and envelopes.

I'm always on the lookout for organizational ideas and tools. Do you have a daily system? What Works for You??!!

Linked to: Works for Me Wednesday

Avoiding GMO's...What's in your lunchboxes??

2009-08-31T23:05:00.006-04:00

It's Back to School time. Lunch bags, boxes, and snacks to pack, as-well-as after school snacks and dinners on the "take", running from one sport to the other. Sound familiar?
We all do our best to feed our family healthy, nutritious foods. And a lot of the times food, many prepackaged foods in particular, aren't always as they seem. And in the midst of all the chaos of running here-and-there, allow me to plant a little "seed" in your already overloaded, overworked, health conscious Mommy minds...
Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO's). Sounds appetizing, huh??!! Infertility, immune problems, accelerated aging, changes in major organs and gastrointestinal system...where do I sign up??!!
Yes...these are all resulting in our wonderful scientific "breakthroughs" in our food development. Read on...
Lyme/Autism Group Blasts GM Foods as Dangerous
Doctors Warn: Avoid Genetically Modified Foods
Study Confirms Genetically Engineered Crops Threaten Human Fertility

This is a huge, huge problem folks. Infertility, fetal mortality, livestock sterility, disease, death... If this continues to rise...you do the math. You see where I'm 'goin here??!!

Go here and here to download a free Non-GMO shopping guide, and where to find these GMO culprits!!

A Night out with Mom

2009-08-27T23:00:00.002-04:00

The "Go Green" lady enjoying her night out!!

Twice in one week??!! I don't get out with the girls for over a year, and I've gone out twice in one week!! Last weekend I met my girlfriends for a "Girls Night Out", and then my mother invited me to "Ladies Night Out" with her and her friends. Some of them may be over twice my age, but nonetheless, I had a wonderful time. My mother-in-law was gracious enough to come to watch the children until my husband got home from football practice in order for me to go. (They got to have a night out too...first, grandma was up for a visit, then when daddy got home, they went for supper at Friendly's...their favorite spot!!)

"Ladies Night Out" in the village

One of the local villages closed their streets and hosted a "Ladies Night Out" and all of the quaint little shops opened their doors. Each store offered hot and cold hors d' oeuvres, wine, sangria, champagne and cheeses. The restaurants had special menus and charming outdoor dining with live music. The stores were right up my alley...antiques, country/primitive shops, classic, old-fashioned toy shops, home decorating boutiques, and Vera Bradley boutiques. {sigh}...I was in heaven. The weather was hot, humid, and balmy, but the atmosphere was oh so wonderful! Live bands playing on the green, street singers playing their guitars, and refreshments and free gifts at the little shops. I didn't buy anything, but just being out for the night with my mother was priceless!! A night with my mother...what could be finer??!!

A sampling of the hors d' oeuvres

A sampling of the wines, fruit, nuts...

some outdoor dining...

Barn (or actually mill) picking in the village...I love "barn picking". So many vintage, unique things!

Linked to: Finer Things Friday

Good Morning...Let the Stress Begin! (Not!!)

2009-08-26T22:15:00.010-04:00

While I rarely prepare dishes ahead of time (I don't really know why...maybe I thrive on trying to do eight things at once? Work best under pressure??!!), there are a few dishes I prepare the night before (and these dishes I always prepare Christmas Eve for Christmas morning brunch, and the night before Mother's Day for a Mother's Day brunch).

These meals are really great for any meal, actually!! I make the quiche for a "Welcome Back" lunch for the teachers at school and pair it with a salad...they love it!!

Quiche (or breakfast bake):

Ingredients:

10 slices white bread decrusted and cubed into quarters

8 eggs

3C. whole milk

2 C. shredded cheddar

1/2 pkg. crisp bacon

1T. onion powder or flakes

Directions:

Line bottom of greased 9x13 pan with bread cubes.

Sprinkle with cheddar.

Beat eggs with milk slightly.

Pour on top of bread and cheese.

Sprinkle with onion flakes/powder.

Cover and refrigerate overnight.

In morning, crumble crisp bacon on top, cover with foil and bake at 375° for 40mins or until golden bubbly.

Stuffed French Toast

Ingredients:

16 slices white decrusted bread

2 8oz. pkgs. cream cheese (I buy lite)

8oz heavy cream

1 doz. lg. eggs

3/4C. pure maple syrup (you can use Aunt Jemima type...that's fine)

2t. pure vanilla

Cinnamon

berries/cream, garnish of your choice

Directions:

1. Spray 9x13" glass pan w/ cooking spray

2. Line bottom with bread

3. Slice cream cheese and put on top of bread (in thin slices...I get about 3-4 out of each block)

4. Place remaining bread on top of cream cheese

5. Mix eggs, cream, syrup, and vanilla with whisk

6. Pour over top of bread

7. Cover and refrigerate overnight

8. Preheat oven to 350°. Bake uncovered for 50mins, then sprinkle with cinnamon, and bake another 10mins.

Serve with warm syrup. (You can top with berries and whipped cream for an added twist)

Linked to: The Ultimate Recipe Swap