One Day At A Time

Menu Plan Monday 8/1

2011-08-01T13:38:00.006-04:00

Hello and welcome to another edition of Menu Plan Monday. Yes, it's Monday again. The weekend went fast as usual and It's already August! Don't forget to stop by organizing junkie for more menus. This morning I got myself all prepared to can tomatoes however, other than the blanching and peeling, I never canned them. Yes, only to realize I didn't have enough to make a canner full. I hate to process just 4 quarts. So in the refrigerator they went. I should have enough to make a canner full with what I got in the refrigerator now by tomorrow or Wednesday for sure. I then froze some broccoli and started my housecleaning. It's amazing what one weekend will do to the house. So, now for a much needed break....here is my menu for this week.

MONDAY
stuffed green peppers (See end of post for recipe)
leftover potato salad
sliced tomatoes/cucumbers

TUESDAY
grilled hot dogs
corn on the cob
sliced cucumbers/tomatoes

WEDNESDAY
chef salads with all the fixings

THURSDAY
out

FRIDAY
grilled garlic butter salmon
brown/wild rice
green beans

SATURDAY
goulash
garlic bread
peaches

SUNDAY
on our own

Stuffed green peppers

5 to 6 medium green peppers
3/4 cup uncooked brown rice
1 pound lean ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
1 can (8ounces) tomato sauce
1/4 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon salt
pepper to taste
1/2 teaspoon instant beef bouillon

Remove tops and seeds from peppers. In a large kettle, bring water to boil; cook peppers for 5 minutes. Remove and drain. Cook rice according to package directions. In a skillet; brown beef and onion. Drain, Add tomato sauce, herbs, salt and pepper; cook 5 minutes. Stir in rice. Stuff peppers with the rice mixture. Place upright in a shallow baking dish or casserole. Bake at 375 degrees for 15-20 minutes. Yield 5-6 servings
If cooking for two: Leftover peppers will freeze well to enjoy later.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-07-27T19:39:00.003-04:00

It's taco night at Dalton's house! For those of you who don't know...Dalton is our grandson.

No excuses, just extra busy

2011-07-26T15:51:00.005-04:00

I hope you all had a wonderful weekend. My weekend was a bit on the extra busy side and for the most part is always busy. Okay, okay I really have no excuses for not posting Monday. No excuses, just busy. Honestly, It has been a very busy summer so far. I don't understand why I can't seem to get caught up on anything. Sometimes I feel as if I am always playing catch up with my housework, my garden ect. So, I have come up with the conclusion I must be taking on too many things at once or it is just because I am getting older and it takes me longer now to do certain things. Whatever the case may be..I don't like it! Anyways, back to my amazing weekend... On Saturday DH and I decided to go to an auction in Spencerville, Indiana. We haven't been to an auction for quite some time and so instead of our usual day of having breakfast, farmers market, and hitting a few garage sales, we decided on a different approach. Now, I love auctions and to tell you the truth, if I had extra or should I say lots of bucks, because who has alot of extra cash to blow in these poor economic times? I would go to an auction or two every chance I could get. I enjoy those dollar or two junk boxes. There is most always some good stuff you find in them a person can use. The stuff I don't want or can't use will go in our flea market sale and we will make our money back and plus. The drive over was relaxing. as Spencerville was mostly a simple, quaint Amish community. Pure Amish country, It couldn't get any better than that. We aquired a truck load of stuff. DH and I had so much fun. I will have to clean and price everything that will go in our Labor day sale.

Yesterday morning I woke up early as my Sister, niece and Dad and I went blueberry picking. I enjoy picking blueberries, partly for the fact there is no bending down to pick them making it so much easier on my back. I had 14 1/2 lbs of blueberries to take care of when I got home. I put some away in the freezer, put up some blueberry jam and blueberry pie filling. I am whooped! Especially after cleaning up blueberry glop that boiled over all over my stove and down to the floor and then I splashed it all over the counter top and a bit on the wall by the sink. It took me an hour to clean up everything. Clumsy me!

My garden is producing many fresh veggies and this time of year I don't lack in this department for our meals. This is also good for my diet. It's about time to get a bit more serious on what and how DH and I eat. Well, myself anyways, DH will be a hard one to convert his eating habits. I hope it will make me a healthier, more energetic person. However, the weeds have decided to overrun my garden and it is so bad, I am sure it will take me forever to get my poor garden clean again. It looks like quite the weed patch for now. If the weather cooperates and it doesn't get too hot again, I may just be able to get out there to do it. Tomorrow I will be helping my Dad and sister pick beans and I hope to freeze a few this time around. I also promised I would help my sister make blueberry jam. So you see.....every day seems to be full with so much to do. It's no wonder I am whooped at the end of the day. No computer time then neither as I find myself falling asleep at the computer. This may be why I have been extra busy?......nope never...no excuses.

Baby Issiah

2011-07-19T21:18:00.005-04:00

Baby Issiah Bradley has arrived! Our new grandson arrived at 2:16 am this morning. He weighed in at 7 lbs. 3 oz. and 19 inches long. DH and I went to the hospital this evening to see mommy and baby. Both are doing very well. I took lots of pictures. He is so tiny and precious. I just love being a grandma. Here I am holding Issiah.

Menu Plan Monday 7/18

2011-07-18T16:53:00.005-04:00

Whew! It sure feels good to be back blogging. Time got away from me. It seemed it took forever for summer to arrive and now it seems it is half over with. Really, it is going by way too fast for me. There has been so much to do this summer and I never seem to get much accomplished. My father said one day, that it isn't that we got so much to do, it is that we are just slower at what we do and that is why we never seem to get it done. Hmmmm.....sounds logical. While I have been gone, my garden has been providing us with lots of fresh veggies. Trust me, DH and I haven't been lacking them in our diet the past few weeks. We are enjoying them all so much and we are ever so thankful for all we get. We have been having a soaring heat wave here in Indiana and so because this week is supposed to be HOT all week, I am going to make my dinners easy and light as possible. Oh! and we just got word that our new grandson, Issiah Bradley will soon be entering the world anytime now. I can't wait. Here is my plan for the week. Be sure to head on over to organizing junkie for more meal plans.

MONDAY

egg salad sandwiches

sliced cucumbers and tomatoes

blueberry smoothies

TUESDAY

grilled pork chops

mashed red potatoes with garlic and Parmesan

green beans

WEDNESDAY

spaghetti with meat sauce

tossed green salad

garlic bread

THURSDAY

out

FRIDAY

Home style Cole slaw

pan fried bluegill

baked zucchini sticks

SATURDAY

hamburgers on grill

potato salad

sliced cucumbers/tomatoes

peach cobbler

SUNDAY

on our own

A good garage sale find

2011-06-20T09:34:00.005-04:00

Anyone can tell you I love garage sales. I love going to them as much as having them. DH and I have been busy as we are planning another sale of our own this weekend but, this past weekend we found some extra time to a little garage saling ourselves and I am so excited and do you know why? I found these really cool jars and I got all of these jars for just $2.50! You see...I buy almost all of my spices, rice, oatmeal, unbleached and whole wheat flour just to name a few in bulk. I like glass for most of my storage needs. These jars look so pretty and kinda have a nostalgia feel to them. I can't wait to fill them. Do you garage sale? If so, what good deals have you found?

Menu Plan Monday 6/20

2011-06-20T08:27:00.004-04:00

DH and I will be having our sale this weekend at the flea market. Yep, another one! This means another busy week for us. My menu plan is as always this time of year and especially whenever we are both so very busy. It has to be very simple, nothing fancy smancy and quick! Don't forget to check organizing junkie for more menus!

MONDAY
Homemade cream of broccoli soup
cold cut sandwiches
rainbow sherbet

TUESDAY
round steak (cooked in crock pot w/mushrooms)
mashed potatoes
steamed sugar snap peas

WEDNESDAY
sloppy joe sandwiches
sweet potato fries

THURSDAY
out

FRIDAY
BLT macaroni salad
strawberry/banana smoothies

SATURDAY
leftovers of this and that

SUNDAY
They always have a big meal prepared for everyone that participates at the flea market at the end of the day

Wordless Wednesday

2011-06-15T16:25:00.002-04:00

My neighbor just planted this pine tree.....and guess what we found!

Menu Plan Monday 6/13

2011-06-13T09:38:00.003-04:00

It is a beautiful morning here in Indiana. We are having a break from the real hot weather and that is good. I feel more like cooking and eating and not to mention working outside in the garden. I don't want to let my garden look like a weed patch so I have to concentrate on my weeding. DH and I are starting to eat quite a bit now from our garden. I love all this fresh stuff! It sure helps on our grocery budget also. This is my menu plan this week.

MONDAY
pan fried bluegill
sweet potato fries
tossed green salad

TUESDAY
chicken and veggie stir fry
fresh sliced strawberries

WEDNESDAY
spaghetti
tossed salad
garlic toast

THURSDAY
out!

FRIDAY
beef brisket in gravy
mashed potatoes
steamed broccoli
summertime strawberry pie

SATURDAY
grilled pork chops
wild/brown rice pilaf
asparagus

SUNDAY
we defend for ourselves

Thankful Thursday

2011-06-09T15:27:00.004-04:00

It is Thankful Thursday and to tell you the truth I wasn't even going to write a Thankful Thursday post. Then I realized I should be thankful even though all week so far has been chaotic. Being thankful keeps me sane. Oh those wonderful turmoils! I was having coffee today with my Dad and we were talking about everything going on in the world. He seemed so frustrated. There are lots of crazy stuff going on in the world right now and lately it feels more and more like these chaotic times we are living in are only to get crazier. I am focusing on the positive. It is so important to keep our faith, salvation, and our eyes on God. I am thankful for my Salvation period! If you don't know Jesus as your savior it is so important! Don't wait until it is too late.
When it comes to everyday things....our house, a bed and I'm glad I'm not hungry when I sleep at night. The car, My poor car...... How are we supposed to say thank you when our car breaks down? Being thankful for the aid that was available. My fathers helping hand and rescuing me when I was stranded in 98 degree heat! I am not sure how much this will cost DH and I to fix the car but, with short on funds, I am grateful for DH's knowledge and skills. Perhaps I should be grateful for this car as if it wasn't for DH's boss's we wouldn't of even had this car. It was a gift.
Go home, hug your kids, kiss your spouse and be thankful. After all think about how much worse life could be and how much worse it is for others. What are you thankful for today?
For the month of June Iris at Grace Alone is hosting Thankful Thursday.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-06-08T10:53:00.004-04:00

I love flowers! I love any kind of flowers! This picture was my Iris's beside the shed just before Memorial day and just before all the storms and heat took a big toll on them. They were so pretty. Today I picked a few of my peony's that still look decent and put them in a pitcher for my table. They smell so sweet and look so pretty on my table.

Book Review Unleased by Erwin McManus- Release the untamed faith within

2011-06-06T16:53:00.002-04:00

This book was provided free of charge by book sneeze in exchange for my honest review.
When I received this book in the mail, I was excited to read it. However I discovered it to be boring, confusing and I lost interest in it rather quickly. In fact, it was very difficult for me to get through the book. I suppose this is why it has taken so long to read. This is not saying too much seeing how this book was a short book. McManus does have some interesting points. In this book McManus argues against faith that it has become too civilized. He stresses on the point that we need to be barbaric Christians. This is the message throughout the book. We need to live for God the way God would like us to live and follow him not our way but the barbarian way. McManus challenges Christians to be on fire for God, In other words we need to let ourselves become unleashed unique individuals that God created us to be. We need to stop trying to be what everyone else wants us to be and stop worrying about what everyone else thinks. We need to live on the edge. I guess this book can challenge you to get out of your comfort zone in your faith Isn't it all too easy for each of us to fall into this so called comfort zone? Maybe say a few prayers, hit church on Sunday morning,maybe do a few acts of service during the week and think we're living as Christ called us to live?

Menu Plan Monday 6/6

2011-06-06T15:23:00.004-04:00

Here it is month of June already! Honestly, where does the time go anymore? It was a very busy past 2 weeks for DH and I. We sold quite a bit of stuff at the flea market over Memorial Day weekend. The weather held up during the days and let loose in the evenings. This was okay. Our canopy enclosures held up well and saved us tons of work by keeping our stuff safe and dry, and not to mention easy to close up at the end of the day. It was like having a portable garage. I am ever so thankful for this investment. We have been invited back to participate during the 120 mile garage sales June 23rd thru the 26th and the July 4th weekend and Labor day weekend. Whew! are we going to busy! With us doing the flea markets this summer along with taking care of our garden, canning, freezing, and maybe hopefully getting a bit of fishing done I am sure my summer will be here today and gone tomorrow. I am excited. This flea market thing is so much fun. The summer may go fast but, isn't that the way all summers seem to go? However, now that summer is here DH and I eat lighter and I will spend less time in the kitchen to fit our busy schedule. Here is my menu for the week.

MONDAY
leftover BBQ spareribs
baked beans
strawberry shortcake

TUESDAY
taco salad
berry smoothies

WEDNESDAY
brats on the grill
potato salad
cantaloupe

THURSDAY
out

FRIDAY
grilled beef and veggie kabobs
brown rice
asparagus

SATURDAY
chef salads
strawberry/banana smoothies

SUNDAY
on our own

Menu Plan Monday 5/23

2011-05-23T11:17:00.008-04:00

Another Monday and another plan! As always you can find more amazing menus at organizing junkie. This week is busier than ever because DH and I are getting ready to set up at the flea market this weekend. There is much to do. There is more stuff to take to the storage unit, pricing, packing, and setting up the whole thing initially. Phew...makes me tired just thinking about it. Hoping for a good sale and a good Memorial Day weekend. I am worried and I know I shouldn't worry. If you know anything about me, I tend to be a worry wart. The flea market is set up outside. With all the rain and thunderstorms we have been experiencing and devastating tornadoes in some states, Please, Please, pray for good weather. Financially we are depending on this sale. Since this is an extremely busier week than usual I will have to think easy and quick. I don't want to be tempted to eat out. This can be costly for sure and will eat up our profits from the sale. We are both going to be tired at the end of the day. Making some things ahead of time will be helpful when we get tempted to eat out. I will pack snacks, sandwiches drinks and so forth for our lunches there. For our dinners in the evening, well, this is what I have planned for this week.

MONDAY
Brats on the grill
chips
baked beans
cantaloupe

TUESDAY

The best whole chicken in a crock pot

tossed salad

brown rice pilaf

WEDNESDAY

pan fried bluegill

sweet potato fries

pea salad

THURSDAY

we will be eating out this night

FRIDAY

southwest chicken wraps

southwest layer dip w/ nacho chips

frozen strawberry lemonade

SATURDAY

chef salads

strawberry/banana smoothies

SUNDAY

on our own???

Return of the Hummers

2011-05-20T10:41:00.005-04:00

Hummingbirds are indeed back! It's great to have the hummingbirds back. I get alot of them at my feeder each summer and all summer long I have the best time watching my little hummers at my feeder. It starts out every year around the same time sometime the beginning of May I set out humming bird feeders. Do you have your feeder out yet? Don't worry it's not too late. However the folks who put out their feeders early seem to have the best luck attracting hummers. So ,if you haven't already, get out your feeder soon. Everyone seems to enjoy the humming birds. I marvel at the tiny size, at their flying skills, and the fact they are able to fly thousands of miles, and yet locate exactly the same feeder they ate from a whole year ago. Amazing! It's ironic that the birds can find our feeders when many of us can't. Did you know that while most birds mate for life or at least have a rock solid bond during mating season that this is not the case with hummingbirds? Yep, They hate all that mushy stuff. In fact they hate each other. Female hummers are extremely resourceful, independent and almost no use for males. When most female birds arrive on their breeding grounds they immediately begin to look for a mate. Not Ms. Hummer. Mating is the last thing on her mind. The first thing she does upon arrival is build a nest, and she does it alone. She doesn't need a mate telling her where and how to build it. Once her nest is completed, she takes a quick trip over to a males territory, does what she has to do, and is done with him. (Sounds like my kinda girl) As you can imagine, hummers nests are small built about ten to twenty feet above the ground, but it may be low. Most nests are located just below a layer of foliage. The foliage not only hides the nest from predators, but it also provides protection from rain and the heat of the summer sun. I have never seen a nest. I have tried numerous times to find one. Finding an active hummingbird nest is not an easy thing to do. Remember the female hummers are single moms. There is no male friendly neighbor or mother-in-law to watch her kids while she is off gathering food. Foliage is all she has to protect her babies when she is not there. The female rarely flies directly back to her nest.; she often makes several false stops along the way. I guess I could try to locate the nest in the fall, when the leaves are off the trees. I will have to put that on my list of things to accomplish this year. A few more thoughts: The formula for making hummingbird food is four parts water to one part sugar. Red food coloring is not required and not recommended. However, changing the food and cleaning your feeder twice a week is important. Why? If Ms. Hummer visits your feeder and it's not fresh, she may not return. She'll simply cast you aside like she's done to all of the males she's met over the years. You don't want to end up like them.

Menu Plan Monday 5/16

2011-05-16T09:26:00.005-04:00

I hope to take today to rest. Yes, after an all weekend adventure with the granddaughters it feels so good to have a quiet Monday with just my lonesome self again. There was just too much going on the past few days and with two little girls, the youngest then getting sick Friday night and Saturday, Papa and I found it to be draining on us not to say the least. We took the girls as a favor to my daughter. She has new hours and training over the weekend for her job and finding a babysitter for those hours would be hard. The rest of this week and next DH and I have to get with the ball game and speed things up a bit. Memorial day weekend is approaching fast. Hmmmm......Where has the month of May gone? There is so much to do yet to set up for the flea market that weekend. As for my menu this week, this is my plan. Look for menu plan Monday at organizing junkie for more delicious menus.

MONDAY
pot roast w/potatoes and carrots
rhubarb pudding cake
TUESDAY
hamburgers and hot dogs on the grill
Michigan baked beans
fruit smoothies
WEDNESDAY
beef and noodles ( beef from leftover roast Monday)
green beans
THURSDAY
out
FRIDAY
nothing to it chicken
Michigan baked beans (leftover from Tuesday)
homestyle cole slaw
SATURDAY
grilled pork chops ( from last week that never made it out of the freezer)
brown/wild rice pilaf
steamed asparagus
SUNDAY
on our own!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-05-11T13:10:00.000-04:00

I just love the innocence of this picture of our grand kids taken at Disney world on their vacation this past couple of weeks. It kinda reminds me of a Disney Ad.

Menu Plan Monday 5/8

2011-05-09T08:26:00.007-04:00

Welcome to Menu Plan Monday! We had an amazing day yesterday weather wise and myself also. Hope all of you had the same. Even though it was Mothers Day, I chose to plant many of my plants and herbs DH gave me for Mothers Day. ( two flats). It was just a perfect day indeed! I worked so hard outside, I was too tired to eat my supper and I went to bed early ( it was still light outside) and I slept like a baby all night! We have another exceptional day on tap again today and I hope I can get more garden veggies and flowers planted. There is much to do yet for sure. While DH has many piers to install I have the house and garden to take care of. Spring has always been a busy time of year for us. This week will be know exception. My menu has to be easy and quick. This is what we will be having. Oh! and don't forget to check out organizing junkie for more menus!

MONDAY
sloppyjoe sandwiches
sweet potato fries
fresh rhubarb pie
TUESDAY
pan fried bluegill
pierogies
green beans
WEDNESDAY
pancakes
sausage
fruit smoothies
THURSDAY
out!
FRIDAY
beef and bean burritos
Spanish rice
SATURDAY
grilled pork chops
pea salad
brown/wild rice pilaf
SUNDAY
On our own!

Eating dandelion flower tops?

2011-05-06T20:44:00.010-04:00

Dandelions....most gardeners detest this weed, But, did you know you can not only eat the greens but, the flower head is edible as well? Yep! Dandelions are in the perennial family. They are often referred to as weeds. Each dandelion has a bright yellow flower head that grows on a long skinny, hollow stem. The flower head can change from bright yellow to white seeds overnight. Now, never have eaten dandelion flower heads before I was a bit skeptical on serving fried dandelions flowers for my dinner table however, my niece and sister was telling me how yummy and good these were dipped in egg, dredged in flour and then fried in butter. My Dad said they tasted like mushrooms. We haven't found any of these wonderful fungi yet....I do see lots of yellow dandelion flower heads though. That did it! I would try these flower heads and serve them with my meal tonight. My sister and I picked a bunch today. I took them home. I first soaked them in salt water for 15 to 20 minutes.
I then rinsed them well. dipped in egg,
rolled in flour
and then fried them in butter until golden brown.
I wasn't sure how DH was going to take eating these flower heads and as I expected, he wasn't the least thrilled about this. He did eat 4 of them and said that was enough for him. I ate about the same. They were edible but to tell you the truth they did not taste like mushrooms. A little disappointment but hey, we tried. Fried dandelion flower heads on our dinner table again? Well, not unless we were totally starving. If I want mushroom taste i will eat real mushrooms! Okay maybe not. But, hey, go ahead appreciate them for what they are worth. Harvest them then fry them up for yourself you may be surprised. Word of caution though, Do not eat dandelions from lawns that have been chemically treated. My sister and I picked these in a field by my Dads house.

Resist that gardening urge

2011-05-03T07:42:00.004-04:00

Where I live here in Northern Indiana, we have received rain, rain and more rain plus the colder temperatures this spring. Does this sound like where you live? You may be wondering if you ever will be able to get to your garden ( and fields) to plant. Hopefully, the weather will soon cooperate so we can get to planting! I have been trying so hard to resist this gardening urge. It seems my garden starts to dry out a bit and then comes some more rain. I was very lucky a few weeks back to get my turnips, onions, lettuce, carrots, spinach and radishes planted and then worried myself sick when it never stopped raining. I was thinking I thought I probably planted for nothing as the seeds probably all washed away. The little seeds are sprouting now. This sure is a load off my mind now. Many gardeners are getting that itch to get out that tiller and work up there garden soil who wasn't as lucky as me to get that tilling done early before all this rain. Many areas are still soggy from snow melt and rain, making soils too wet to work. Here is a little bit of info on reasons to wait for the soil to dry out before planting in your garden. My dad who was a farmer and is an avid gardener once told me whether you use a tiller or just a garden spade, working wet soil can badly compact soil, and will have negative effects lasting for many years. Working wet soil will pack soil particles tightly leaving less room for water and air to penetrate. Compacted soil also makes it more difficult for plant roots and gardening equipment to move through the soil. The compression forms tight clumps of soil that become hard as rocks upon drying and are difficult to break up. This is especially true for those with clay like soil. Compacted soil soils also tend to drain more slowly, in turn delaying the ability to work the soil after the next rainfall. Once compacted, it will take many years to rebuild a healthy soil structure, requiring annual applications of organic matter, such as animal wastes or perhaps growing a green manure crop, such as annual rye or winter wheat. The best course of action is to prevent compaction in the first place. To determine if your garden's soil is dry enough to work, dig a trowel full of soil and squeeze it in your hand. Soil that crumbles through your fingers when squeezed is ready to garden. I have seen my dad do this numerous times when growing up. If however, the soil forms a muddy ball, give the soil another few days to dry and sample again later. In the meantime, you can soothe that gardening itch by sketching garden plans, making a shopping list for your local garden center and browsing online. I have most all my plants bought now including my seeds. I will be ready for action when the soil does dry enough to work.

Menu Plan Monday 5/2

2011-05-02T12:25:00.005-04:00

One of the best ways to save is by creating a simple weekly menu. To tell you the truth, I 'm not perfect and every now and then I slip upon my planning however, if I didn't do a menu each week or at least some kind of a guideline I would spend more at the grocery store and more tempted to eat out more and I would be more tempted to eat more convience foods in general. Making a menu every week has become rather important to me for just this factor. Stumped?? Organizing junkie has many more amazing menu ideas and recipes. Be sure to check her out. This is what is on our menu this week.

MONDAY

chicken and noodles

dandelion greens* ( my mom used to make this alot; every spring; when I was a little girl) Tastes like spinach

blueberry snack cake

TUESDAY

ham and beans

corn bread

WEDNESDAY

almond chicken

brown/wild rice pilaf

nonfat frozen yogurt

THURSDAY

out!

FRIDAY

Salisbury steak

mashed potatoes

steamed broccoli

SATURDAY

spaghetti

tossed green salad

garlic/cheese bread

SUNDAY

on our own!

Dandelion greens*

You want to pick dandelion greens before it flowers as is best then. Wash greens really well making sure you have all dirt out. Soak greens in water and salt for awhile. Drain, rinse well. Heat greens until hot and wilted. In a skillet melt a little bit of oleo or bacon fat. ( I like oleo as it's healthier than the latter) Put greens in, Beat egg, a little mustard,( about 1/4 tsp) 1 Tbls. vinegar and salt and pepper. cook altogether with greens. Cook until hot.

Thankful Thursday

2011-04-21T09:51:00.004-04:00

It has been awhile since I did a Thankful Thursday post but, I'm back at it because it is good to share our praises and things we are so thankful for. Be sure to visit spiritually unequal marriage for more Thankful Thursdays. This week has been quite the week so far. I have been sick since last Thursday. Although I am much better now. The weather has been cold and rainy every day and it seems it has been one obstacle after another for DH and I. We have and will get through these obstacles as we always do. One of these obstacles was running out of propane gas yesterday. We both knew we were getting low but, with this crazy cold damp weather we still have had to run our furnace at times. DH was at work and this particular morning I hadn't heard the furnace run for quite some time. It was beginning to get a might chilly in the house. I smelled gas and realized the pilot lights had gone out on the stove. I called DH. It is what I feared...We had run out of gas. DH told me to shut off the gas outside on the tank. I did..so I thought...seeing how I never seen or looked under that little hood on the tank before. I called the gas company and they would have to make an emergency run which in turn would cost me another $150 more to have them come out that day or I could wait until next week. Sigh....My day was already getting worse by the minute. First rule of thumb..NEVER RUN OUT OF GAS on cold rainy days before a holiday! If this wasn't bad enough..a few hours later my Dad came over. As soon as I opened the door, he about fell over. The smell of gas was overwhelming. Having being congested some still from being sick I did not know it was that bad. Perhaps I was just used to the smell but, for whatever reason Dad said it was a wonder my dog and I wasn't on the floor unconscious. We opened windows, turned on the fan and we soon had the smell gone for the most part. Dad said I had went the wrong way and had turned the gas instead wide open. Rule number two..Please always know how and where to shut off your gas! It could mean life or death. I am thankful my father showed up at our house when he did. . I am thankful God watched over my little dog and I and that we were able to get some gas right away to keep our home warm and so we are able to cook our Easter dinner on Sunday. Speaking of Easter.. I thank God for the amazing gift that comes to us on Easter, and it is much better than that chocolate rabbit you plan to nibble the ears off of. Jesus death on the cross, his resurrection, and his ascension into heaven. God gave Jesus to die for our sins and he raised him to life so that we would be acceptable to God. HE loves us that much! Happy Easter everyone!

First fishing trip of the Spring season

2011-04-12T19:18:00.003-04:00

Here in the Midwest, the weather is finally warming up. The sun is shining....Yes, Spring is in the air. The daffodils are in bloom..Gosh, I have been aching to go fishing since the ice left the lake. There is nothing like the taste of fresh pan fried bluegill! My dad, sister and I decided today was the day. We would go to the pond. I like going there because I always catch a mess of bluegill, good sized ones too! Being on a private pond you don't need a fishing licence as, I don't have mine yet. In the beginning we weren't sure we would be able to go as my dad wouldn't be able to drive back to it with his truck, being so wet and all. We decided later that he would drive out to the pond with his lawn tractor with his wagon behind it to carry the bucket, bait and fishing poles. My sister and I would walk. It is a way to walk but, we didn't mind it as walking after all, would be good exercise. Even though at 60 degrees, the sun shone brightly,however, the north wind cut right through us. This made for a difficult time to cast our line out. Our lines at times got tangled a few times from some tall weeds amongst the shore line. The fish were hungry! It is no wonder as they do not have mosquitoes and such to eat yet. We used red worms and wax worms but the fish prefered the red worms today. It seemed my sister and I were reeling all the fish in until my dad got out his small cane pole and used it and then he was reeling them in right and left. No one got skunked .I am sure if I hadn't had to go to the bathroom so bad we would have stayed longer. Our pail was packed with fish! It was time to head back to the house. 51 fish=102 pieces divided by 3 = 30.6 pieces each to be exact. We all had enough for a meal and one batch for each of us to freeze for another meal, another day. Now, we had to clean all those fish. Most city folk would have to wonder at the sight of my dad, sister and I outside at the table cleaning fish with chickens walking all around us. My dad throws a piece of chicken gut now and then as the chickens scramble for that one piece. We laugh and talk. I had an amazing time and I really look forward to my next fishing trip on the pond. But, next time it will be 60 degrees and no wind!

Book Review- The Final Summit by Andy Andrews

2011-04-11T11:56:00.003-04:00

Andy Andrews is quite the storyteller! The final summit is a story about a quest to find the one principle that will save humanity. David Ponder at 74 years of age sits and reflects back over his life. David has been feeling pretty lonely and somewhat depressed. He is summoned by Gabriel, the archangel. David Ponder sits at the table with people from history. Some of your greatest thinkers.There is only one chance to save humanity. Each chapter introduces another principal for leading a successful life. This is man kinds last chance. Centuries of greed, pride and hate have sent humanity hurtling toward disaster, and far from its original purpose. To me this book wasn't exactly nonfiction nor was it fiction. This was a very different kind of book I have ever read. It has so much truth and inspiration. I tried to get into this book but, since I didn't read Andy Andrews earlier book The travelers gift I found myself a little lost at times in the story. This is the first of any Andy Andrews books I have read. This book is very well written. The historical information presented was very interesting. I might or might not read more of his books but, if I did I would definitely read this book again as I feel I would get a better understanding out of it. As a member of the Book Sneeeze blogger review program, I was recently sent a free copy of the final summit by Andy Andrews in exchange for my honest review.

Menu Plan Monday 4/11

2011-04-11T09:23:00.004-04:00

We had a beautiful day yesterday, sunshine, warm and breezy. It sure does make it hard to stay in with weather like that! DH and I got alot done over the weekend. I spread some new mulch in my flower bed around my tulips, daffodils and hyacinths. DH got the patio cleaned up and cleaned the patio table and chairs. We spread mineral salt over our asparagus bed. Did you know this helps keep the grass down? and is actually beneficial for the asparagus? I had boxes and tubs filled with junk for the flea market this year , Memorial Day weekend. This was all taken out of the house and brought out to the trailer, ready to be hauled to the storage unit and flea market. I took down some of our storm windows and I am so glad I did as it got pretty warm yesterday and opening some of the windows was a must. As you can see, it was pretty busy around our household. I loved it! I hope your weekend was good as well. With the days a little brighter my meals get a little lighter for spring. Here is my menu for this week. Go ahead and visit organizing junkie for more menus.

MONDAY

goulash

Dr. Oz beet salad*

TUESDAY

taco salad

blueberry smoothies

WEDNESDAY

sauteed pierogies

kielbasa

steamed broccoli

strawberry pretzel salad

THURSDAY

out

FRIDAY

chicken and veggie stir fry w/ brown rice

SATURDAY

chicken marsala

roasted brussel sprouts

Quinoa pilaf

SUNDAY

defend for ourselves

Dr. Oz beet salad*

ingredients

beets

olive oil

balsamic vinegar

garlic

salt

pepper

gorgonzola cheese

Directions

Boil the beets until they become tender. Pull off the skin under cold running water. Chop them and toss lightly with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, salt, pepper. Crumble gorgonzola cheese on top for extra flavor

Do your homework

2011-04-08T16:01:00.005-04:00

Phew! I have finally been able to get my Internet up to do my posting. Yes, I know, I am constantly apologising to you guys why I haven't made any postings or why I am late posting.I hate it I really do. I don't want to have to apologise all the time. I am trying hard to post at least 3 times a week if I can't post everyday. It is my fault that I did not do my homework. You see it is like this....After an hour of trying to just get my e-mail up last night. I finally just gave up in tears. What I thought was going to be a good thing turned out to be worse. I was so upset about our wild blue Internet it was amazing I could even calm down enough to sleep. I feel cheated and robbed. When I first got wild blue ( broadband) it was last month on the second. For 2 weeks I had no problem. It was nice to have Internet that even though wasn't "fast" per say, it was at least faster than ole' dial up. After about 2 days according to wild blue I had used over half of my allotted bandwidth already. You see...this has me wondering, as the most I did on my computer for the first few days was read, delete e-mails, did a few surveys. I was playing catch-up. Caution! Do not exceed your bandwidth! If you do, you will have slower than dial up speed for as many days as it takes to fall below 70% of your allotted cap. How much pipe would be recovered by simply staying off line for 24 hours? the answer? not much! They just turn down your speed until you're out of FAP violation, but what they don't say is that slowed down speed is so slow that when combined with the interest lag of satellite access, and the heavy traffic on their system, it makes your satellite access completely useless while in a FAP violation period! The bottom line is you are very limited as to what you can do. The basic plan was sold to me as being able to surf the net, read e-mails Do my surveys, blog, play farmville ( which I have discontinued...and another story) It was disclosed there are thresh holds, but it is not explained well how fast those thresholds can be met and that there is a penalty when you can surpass them. Wild blue requires a 2 year contract and will impose a $15/month early termination fee if you break it. The way I have been feeling lately, that $15/month doesn't look bad! Sometimes your only option is poor and nothing if you happen to be in a rural area that is not serviced by DSL or cable, your options are pretty limited. With wild Blue you have the option of 3 packages the value or basic/512 kbps (this is what I have) at $49.95/month, The select /1kbps at $69.95/mo or the pro/ 1.5 kbps at $79.95/mo all are very expensive! Trust me, Just be sure to do your research before choosing their services or any service. It may not really be for you. Wild blue is truly "out in space" If you are into self torture you may want to try them out! I have learned a valuable lesson.

Menu Plan Monday 4/4/2011

2011-04-04T08:15:00.004-04:00

It's April already...gosh time certainly does fly by fast doesn't it? I am back atcha with another menu plan and this week I plan on making a new dish. Beef sirloin steak with baby spinach, I can't remember what magazine I got this from but, this sounds easy and different. I love trying new recipes. How about you? So what's for dinner this week at my house? Check this out! For other menu inspiration see organizing junkie's blog for menu plan Monday!

MONDAY
Bean and cheese burritos w/spanish rice ( I make alot of these and what we don't eat, individually wrap and put in freezer for another time or to grab quick, microwave and eat)
TUESDAY
Potato soup
tuna salad sandwiches
jello salad
WEDNESDAY
beef sirloin steak w/baby spinach*
mashed potatoes
THURSDAY
out!
FRIDAY
salsa chicken
corn souffle
small tossed green salad
SATURDAY
spaghetti
garlic toast
tossed salad
SUNDAY
Defend for ourselves!

Beef sirloin steak w/baby spinach*
Prep 20 min cook 20 min Makes 4 servings

2 Tbls. olive oil
1 boneless beef sirloin steak, 3/4" thick
(about 1 lb) cut into 4 pieces
1 lg. onion, sliced
1 small red pepper, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (10 3/4 0z)Campbells condensed cream of mushroom soup
1/2 cup water
2 Tbls. balsamic vinegar
1 Tbls.chopped fresh rosemary leaves or 1 tsp. dried rosemary leaves crushed
1 bag (about 7 oz.) fresh baby spinach
Heat 1 Tbls. oil in a 12 inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add beef and cook until well browned on both sides. Remove beef from skillet. Pour off fat.
Heat remaining oil in skillet. Add onion and pepper and cook 1 min., stirring occasionally, add garlic and cook until vegetables are tender-crisp, stirring often.
Stir soup, water, vinegar, and rosemary in skillet and heat to a boil. Return beef to skillet.Reduce heat to medium. Stir in spinach. Cover and cook for 2 minutes or until desired doneness. Serve beef and vegetable mixture with potatoes.
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Wordless Wednesday

2011-03-23T10:12:00.003-04:00

These two grandaughters always have so much love to give!

Menu Plan Monday- March 21

2011-03-21T11:37:00.005-04:00

Welcome to another Menu Plan Monday. I am off to a late start. I decided to boil my chicken for my chicken and noodles for tonights dinner and make cookies. DH loves my chicken and noodles. He claims they taste like the apple festival's chicken and noodles. ( I don't know about that) But, he often requests this dish. Spring is in the air so I decided my menu should be well ....Springy as well as trying to keep it healthy somewhat and simple. Check out organizing junkie and while you are visiting, stay awhile and check out the many great menus. I get alot of different ideas from these, along with many amazing recipes.

MONDAY

chicken and noodles

steamed asparagus

galletes blance/caramel fudge frosted cookies ( Canadian french cookie)

TUESDAY

omelets ( veggie for me)

sweeter muffins

apple sauce

WEDNESDAY

chicken pot pie w/bisquit crust

fruit smoothies

THURSDAY

out!

FRIDAY

grilled garlic butter salmon

brown rice pilaf

steamed broccoli

SATURDAY

sloppy joe sandwhiches

cole slaw

michigan baked beans

SUNDAY

On our own!

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The Shelter of Gods Promises- Book review

2011-03-18T17:23:00.004-04:00

This is my very first book review ever! Book sneeze sent me a complimentary copy of the Shelter of Gods Promises by Sheila Walsh. This has been a while ago and I finally got thru this book. This book was not what I envisioned it to be. I found this book hard to read, in fact I found it a bit boring. Perhaps it is due to the fact that this is a completely different kind of book that I am used to reading. I am more of a fiction book gal. In this book Sheila Walsh is a storyteller using her own personal experiences with scriptures. Each chapter covers a different promise of God. There is ten promises of God. Sheila Walsh searches scripture for what God has promised us and in turn what these promises mean Whether you are going through the feeling as if you don't believe anyone can love you or you are afraid and feel alone. If you know God's promises but, not sure how they apply to you,. This book is for you. She reminds us that no matter what we are going through, we are not alone. This book can lift your spirits. Oh! and this book includes an in-depth bible study plan in the back. For me, this was extremely helpful. This book would be wonderful for small bible study groups. To sum it up I find this book honest, and challenging with biblical truth. This is not a book however I would read again unless I was reading it for a bible study.
I received a free copy of this book from Book Sneeze in exchange for an honest review.<>

MENU PLAN MONDAY 2/28

2011-02-28T08:57:00.005-05:00

Whew! I just have to say this has been a strange and frustrating past weekend for me! I feel very fortunate to have my Internet up and running at the moment for it had turned for the worse Saturday. I suppose it is time to step up with technology. For the moment my son fixed this getting online experience by unplugging the modem and plugging it in a different port. I talked with my Internet provider and they actually was more interested in directing me to broadband or DSL...hmmmmmm....I am sure this dial-up thing is phasing out is why they are steering people towards this and away from old school dial-up. After this incident, I feel I have no choice but to move forward that is, if I want to have Internet. I will now have broadband by this Wednesday if all goes well. So now let's talk about the menu....and....be sure to visit organizing junkie for more menus!

MONDAY

spaghetti

tossed green salad

garlic bread

TUESDAY

fried pork chops

brown/wild rice pilaf

steamed cauliflower

WEDNESDAY

macaroni and cheese

green beans

THURSDAY

homemade chicken noodle soup

grilled cheese sandwiches

jello with fruit

FRIDAY

Swiss steak

mashed potatoes

steamed broccoli

SATURDAY

pancakes and sausage

SUNDAY

Defend for ourselves

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We find contentment in the promises of God

2011-02-25T11:13:00.003-05:00

The role of money in people's day to day lives is quite amazing when it's put into prospective. The primary reason Americans get up in the morning is so they can go out and make money. Money buys things. Money influences people. Money keeps us alive. Money makes us happy, or does it? Have you ever noticed contentment is an illusive commodity today? In fact, much of the business world works hard to breed discontent so that we will buy their product and keep the economy healthy. They tell us something is new and improved so we will feel that we have less than the best and are somehow "behind the times" so to speak. Gambling institutions (including lottery officials) show us pictures of what we could do with the winnings of the lottery. They are deliberating trying to make us feel dissatisfied with life playing to our greed. They want us to believe that we are not significant if we don't have the best and newest. Let's be honest, It is hard to be content in the difficult times. We look around and see others who seem to be doing better than we are and we feel cheated. It is hard to feel satisfied, confident, joy, when our plans are suddenly changes, when life is not going the way you want it to be going. For me this past 2 weeks has been just that. Living in a rural area can sometimes have its pitfalls especially when it comes to Internet service. Broad band or dial up is our only option. I love my computer. I spend alot of time, maybe too much on it. But, dial up is ....SLOW....! I am so limited on what I can do and trying to do my surveys take forever if I can even do them. I could go on and on and I have to tell you I have done my share of moaning and groaning. If broadband wasn't so expensive and didn't have that up front cost maybe I would have had it by now. DH has given in and agreed to let me set up broad band for my computer., which is exactly what I have done...well...supposedly..One of the providers that I decided on never got back with me after they said they would. I could call them back, but somehow I suddenly do not feel comfortable about this. I have the cash in my hand..I can finally have my "fast" Internet...But why can't I just be content with what I have? This is going to break us for the next two weeks even though this can be done. I mean just because my Internet doesn't do all I want it to do, I still have Internet right? I have been praying about this. One thing I have learned about this world we live in is how fast it is developing. We now have so many technologies that has helped us control places that we might never be. One of the great technologies is the Internet and with only decade ago dial-up Internet was the prevalent form of Internet connection. Today, dial -up is totally irrelevant. Dial-up is already going into extinction. Maybe for the moment, broadband Internet isn't for me. Perhaps later, In God's timing and that's alright with me. I should be content on what I do have. Waiting for God's timing is probably one of the hardest things we have to do, but it's worth it. Too many people believe happiness, fulfillment and satisfaction is found in power, possessions, promotions and pleasure. But, these are roads that lead to dead ends. There is only one road to contentment and it goes through Jesus. Are you content with what you have from the Lord?-not seeking more or complaining of less?
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Menu Plan Monday 2/21

2011-02-21T12:02:00.005-05:00

Welcome to yet another edition of Menu Plan Monday. Just when the glimpse of spring begins to make an appearance, it suddenly turns into old man winter again. Well, at least for a little while longer. Here in Indiana you never know what it is going to be like. Last night we got hit with an ice storm. There seems to be more freezing rain coming and then turning to snow up to 5 inches of that white stuff! Winter is not about to loosen it's icy grip! For my menu this week it's all about easy warm and comfort. Be sure to visit organizing junkie for some more amazing menus!

MONDAY

chicken and noodles

tossed green salad

chocolate pudding w/bananas

TUESDAY

pizza/veggie for me

WEDNESDAY

sausage

macaroni and cheese

green beans

THURSDAY

split pea soup

grilled cheese

jello salad of some sort

FRIDAY

garlic butter salmon

brown rice

steamed peas

SATURDAY

spaghetti

garlic bread

small green salad

SUNDAY

on our own/leftovers

Menu Plan Monday 2/14

2011-02-13T21:13:00.005-05:00

Good Morning and Happy Valentines Day! I am a bit under the weather with a scratchy throat and the general yuk feeling. This is not how I want to start the week off but, there is not much I can do about it. I have taken some meds but, I don't seem to feel any better so I guess it will just have to take it's course.... sigh...! I realized all I have left in meat for this week is hamburger, venison burger and bluegill. I don't feel like spending the money for other meat this week...so guessing this will do. What is nice about hamburger, it is very versatile. There is so much you can do with it. Be sure to visit organizing junkie and while you are there you might want to hook up with her with your own menu plan.

MONDAY

out? I am on strike today!!

TUESDAY

meatloaf

baked potato (for DH) baked sweet potato (for me)

steamed peas

WEDNESDAY

meatloaf sandwiches

potato/broccoli soup

THURSDAY

Spanish rice

bean and cheese burritos

FRIDAY

scrambled eggs

blueberry pancakes

SATURDAY

sloppy joes

baked fries

SUNDAY

defend for ourselves!

Menu Plan Monday 2/7

2011-02-07T10:26:00.004-05:00

You guessed it! It's Monday, time for another round of menu planning for this week. I've got an unusually busy week planned. My dad and I will be getting together for a couple of days to make elderberry/grape jelly. The elderberries and grapes were some we picked this last summer. I put the elderberries in the freezer and my dad made juice from the grapes and put them in his freezer. At the time we thought this was best as dad's hip was really bad and we had so much other canning and freezing in the works. We figured this winter was the best time to make jelly; and together we should have some awesome jelly! At our local Meijer store this past week, they had the Ball brand pectin for 75 cents a box, marked down from $1.50. The expiration date is dated 2013. Between my dad's purchase and my purchases, we should have enough pectin to put up jelly for the next 2 years! This was a good price for sure and couldn't of come at a better time when we needed some for this jelly. My menu for this week looks like this..

MONDAY
chili
homemade bread
yellow cake w/milk chocolate frosting

TUESDAY
veggie omelets
sweeter muffins w/ jelly*
apple sauce

WEDNESDAY
beef sirloin steak w/baby spinach*
glazed carrots
mashed potatoes

THURSDAY
french meat pie*
green beans

FRIDAY
crunchy apple salad
beef pattie melts

SATURDAY
leftovers

SUNDAY
defend for ourselves!

Now, if you go to organizing junkie, you will see many yummy menus for inspiration!

Sweeter Muffins
1 egg
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup vegetable oil or melted shortening
1 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup sugar
2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt

Grease bottoms of muffin cups. Beat egg slightly with a fork. Measure and stir in milk and oil. Measure and blend flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add all at once to liquid mixture. Stir just enough to moisten dry ingredients. Fill muffin cups 2/3 full. Wipe off any spilled batter and place pan in center or preheated 350 degree oven. Bake 20 to 25 minutes or until golden brown. remove to a cooling rack. Serve piping hot. Makes 12 muffins

Beef Sirloin Steak w/baby spinach
prep time 20 min. cook time 20 min. makes 4 servings

2 Tbls. olive oil
1 boneless beef sirloin steak, 3/4: thick (about 1lb), cut into 4 pieces
1 lg onion, sliced
1 small red pepper, chopped
3 cloves, garlic, minced
1 can (103/4 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
1/2 cup water 2 Tbls balsamic vinegar
1 Tbls chopped fresh rosemary leaves or 1 tsp. dried rosemary leaves crushed
1 bag ( about 7 oz) fresh baby spinach
hot mashed potatoes

Heat 1 Tbls oil in a 12 inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add beef and cook until well browned on both sides. Remove beef from skillet. Pour off fat.
Heat remaining oil in skillet, add onion and pepper and cook 1 minute, stirring occasionally, Add garlic and cook until vegetables are tender crisp, stirring often.
Stir in soup, water, vinegar and rosemary in skillet and heat to a boil. Return beef to skillet. Reduce heat to medium. Stir in spinach. Cover and cook for 2 minutes or until desired doneness. Serve beef and vegetable mixture with potatoes.

French meat pie

2 Tbls. cooking
1 lg onion, thinly sliced
1 lb ground beef
1 lb ground pork
1 cup mashed potatoes
2 tsp ground allspice
1 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper
pastry for double crust pie (9 inches)
1 egg beaten opt.

In a skillet, heat oil over medium.Saute onion until tender. Remove and set aside. Brown beef and pork together. Drain, Combine onion, meat, potatoes, and seasonings. Line pie plate with pastry. Fill with meat mixture. Top with crust. Seal and flute edges. Make slits in top crust. Brush with egg if desired. Bake at 375 degrees for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown yield 6-8 servings

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Think Spring.....Think Dandelions

2011-02-04T14:41:00.005-05:00

It seems we are all longing for an early Spring. It has been a long cold winter. Coping with Arctic wind chills and snow, lots of snow for some of us; well, most people including myself are fed up with winter period! The good news is that Spring will come in fact early this year. Punxsutawney Phil predicted this by not seeing his shadow. In my eyes, there is still 6 more weeks of winter any way you look at it. But, with the skies so beautiful baby blue and the sun shining ever so bright yesterday and today, and as i was sitting in my chair enjoying the warmth and soaking it all in, I seemed to forget for a moment my winter weather doldrums.
My dad and I love to do much of the same things and try to help each other out with freezing and canning, putting out a big garden. This year we have been talking about dandelions. Yes, that little so called weed with the yellow flower that everyone hates that seems to take over your yard. We plan on digging up a bunch of them this Spring to eat. Mom used to hate it when he would dig up a bunch and had her clean them. Oh! How I used to love eating them! Did you know the dandelion is not native to the United States? It's true! It was brought here by the European settlers for food and medicine. The fresh young leaves and flowers are a great addition to every salad. They are classified as a "bitter" which aids in digestion by helping the pancreas, spleen and stomach. They also increase bile, improve kidney function and contain high amounts of potassium. This can make them helpful for water retention and high blood pressure. Both leaves and root cleanse the blood and kidneys, along with liver and gallbladder functions. The root has been roasted for years and used as a healthy coffee substitute. In the bible it mentions that "they shall eat with unleavened bread and bitter herbs" The dandelion is one of the most common plants in Egypt and Western Asia. It is quite possible that it was eaten at the time of the passover. Chinese herbal practitioners wrote about it's medicinal value in the seventh century. The Roman scholar knew and wrote about it in the first century. How's that for years of testing? So, think about this the next time you get the urge to eradicate that "dandy" weed....maybe it grows in such abundance because we could all use more free food and health benefits that it so devotedly offers. After all, the Creator does not make mistakes.
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Wordless Wednesday

2011-02-02T14:40:00.004-05:00

Menu Plan Monday 1/31

2011-01-31T14:47:00.003-05:00

I am a bit late but, DH and I went to town this morning for a few supplies. The weather forecast is predicting snow and lots of it! ....Grrrrrr..When ever people hear a snowstorm is coming, as always, the grocery store does a booming business. I am thinking this morning I was just as guilty. I am sure with all I have in the freezer and pantry, DH and I could eat well for awhile if we did get snowed in for a spell. We had to go to town for other business so it made sense to stop at the store for a few things we needed while we were in town anyhow. Yesterday the sun was shining ever so bright and it made me hunger for spring ever so much...sigh...Heres what I came up with for this weeks menu. For more menu ideas stop by organizing junkie.

MONDAY
pulled pork sandwiches
michigan baked beans ( this is my sisters recipe. It's new for me and I am so anxious to try it out)
carrot and celery sticks

TUESDAY
pan fried bluegill( DH has been ice fishing about every day so we have been getting an abundance of this fish)
green salad
baked sweet potato fries

WEDNESDAY
salsa chicken
corn cakes with fresh corn and chives
bread pudding ( this is a great way to use all those crust or odds and ends of bread that need used up)

THURSDAY
chicken/veggie stir fry w/brown rice
tapioca pudding

FRIDAY
blueberry pancakes
sausage

SATURDAY
pork chops
glazed carrots
baked potato

SUNDAY
Defend for ourselves!

Michigan baked beans

16 oz (2 cups) dry navy beans
2 Quarts cold water
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 cup molasses
1/3 cup brown sugar
1 tsp dry mustard
4 oz salt pork, bacon,or ham ( may substitute a half cup of butter or shortening if your'e going meat free)
1 med. yellow onion

Rinse beans, add to water in a saucepan. Bring to boiling and simmer 2 minutes; remove from heat. Cover; let stand 1 hour ( or let beans to cold water and soak overnight)
Add salt to beans and water; cover and simmer until beans are tender; about 1 hour. Drain, reserving liquid. Measure 2 cups liquid, adding water if needed; mix with molasses, brown sugar, and mustard. Cut salt pork in half, score one half. Grind or thinly slice remainder.
In 2 quart bean pot or cassarole, combine beans, onion and ground salt pork. Pour molasses mixture over. Top with scored pork. Cover; bake in 300 degree F oven for 5 to 7 hours. Add more liquid if needed. Makes 8 servings

NOTE* I just cooked the dry beans for awhile and added everything together in crockpot. I also used bacon in the place of salt pork. It is cooking and it is starting to smell AMAZING!

Bread Pudding

3 eggs
3 cups of milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
3/4-1 cup of sugar ( depending on your taste preference and amount of bread used)
dash of salt
dry or old bread
1 tsp cinnamon
raisins (optional)
Mix together all ingredients except for the cinnamon in a cassarole or baking pan. Size depends on how much bread you have
Sprinkle cinnamon on top
Bake at 350 degree F oven for about 45 minutes. Poke with knife, if it comes out clean then it's done. Baking time varies.
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New Year's Resolutions

2011-01-28T11:45:00.005-05:00

Every year I try, I really do. I try to make wonderful and inspirational New Years Resolutions and most years, they trickle by the wayside in just a few short months. I either can't stick to my guns or I find I never really wanted to in the first place. I was sure this was year I would stick to my resolution because I even got a head start on it way back last year. Yep, I thought it would go smoothly because I have already succeeded by losing a few lbs, eating healthier, exercising by walking when ever I can, just being more active in general. But, I had a game plan and I had already been working on it....so this was a piece of cake. I had it nailed. I pledged to myself that 2011 was the year. I have entered the year sure of myself. Sure until, lets see, what's today's date? Yep, it's true. I have already managed to find a slew of excuses and reasons why I haven't managed to make my regularly scheduled workout times. I am so steamed at myself! Seriously? Okay, so I still have time to recover and go on to keep this resolution, but already my heart feels like it's failed and why bother..
Yesterday something occurred to me. I have been trying to do this all on my own. I have been deciding what I was going to do, how I was going to change myself, and going about it in my own human power.
Don't we all do that in some form or another? Maybe it's not a new years resolution and workout for you, but haven't you ever tried to do something that feels big under your own power?
To make it work, and have a sticking power, there is only one driven force that has the ability to change anything of value. And that force is God. I know, I know, sounds a little preachy when I say it out loud. But hear me out....
Only God has the power and strength to take something tired, worn, dirty and old and change it into a whole new clean, whole, and life filled beginning. It doesn't matter what it is- name anything- and God can bring new life into it. Be it your finances, your job, a relationship, or even plain ole you! He can make all things new. He can strengthen, renew and grow us. But there is something important in having this happen...we have to want it, and then ask for it. He has to be invited into the changes we desire, into the new beginnings we crave, into relationships we hold dear. Like anyone of us, He won't jump in where He's not wanted. But, He'd jump at the chance to be part of your life if you asked! It's what he desires most.
I know if I truly want to become a more healthy person this coming year, I won't resist the temptations that lead to failure without the sustaining strength that God at my side will bring. So I've invited Him into my New Years Resolution. I know that He will motivate me and help make 2011 amazing!!!
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My Noodle Adventure

2011-01-27T17:32:00.006-05:00

As I promised, I want to share with you my noodle adventure. In my effort to eat more whole foods, eating healthier and saving dollars on our grocery bill. I decided to try my hand at making noodles. This noodle making thing was a whole new challenge for me. Making noodles isn't really hard. DH and I love homemade noodles but, I never considered making them because I thought....well..just that...Hard! We always bought our noodles at the store and if we wanted homemade we would buy from the local Amish. There are many recipes out there but, this is the recipe I used. This simple recipe requires only flour, eggs,salt, baking powder, and water. How simple is that? To start I took 4 beaten eggs with 2-3 Tbls. water. In another bowl I took 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tsp. salt and 1/2 tsp. baking powder; mix together......I then made a well in center of flour mixture and poured my beaten eggs into the well....

I stirred in the flour mixture by hand until a soft dough formed. Does it look a bit on the dry side? Yup, looks like it to me.

I continue to roll out the dough into a very thin layer on a lightly floured surface and I cut into 1/2 inch strips.

After cutting in strips, the noodles need to dry at least 4 hours before using. I hung my noodles over chairs on a towel. I was told that if you do not use right away, you should put them in the freezer until you are ready to use them ( I did this) as they will mold otherwise.

So there you have it...My noodle adventure! I suppose I am just being critical of myself but, these noodles just don't look pretty. The Amish noodles we buy don't look like this.This won't stop me from making them again because there is no rule that says they have to look perfect or pretty to taste good!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-01-26T10:09:00.003-05:00

LOL! His daddy got him a new shirt! our grandson is a handsome young man!

Cooking from scratch

2011-01-25T15:35:00.004-05:00

Who has time to cook anymore? Well, unfortunately this is the reality in many homes. Many of us have abandoned our kitchens for faster food which means that we are not choosing healthy whole foods anymore. This is sad. Have you ever noticed unfortunately people are brainwashed by the media into thinking that they don't have time to cook, and they don't have time to eat together? This is really sad Cooking from scratch doesn't have to be complicated, and it certainly will result in a healthier diet. People have different opinions on what exactly "from scratch" means. Well, scratch for me means getting your hands a little dirty, spending some time over the stove and at the cutting board and using whole ingredients to start. From now on, I am hoping to prepare healthy nutritious meals using only basic ingredients. My overall plan is to reduce my dependence on buying the food we eat hence, saving money and preparing healthier meals. Remember convenience comes with a price! Growing up my mother used to make her own butter, maple syrup, spaghetti sauce ect. and even her own soap. She did this all from scratch. She always had a large garden and grew all her own vegetables and canned and froze what we didn't eat fresh. We had our own milk fresh from the cow and raised our own beef, pork chicken and eggs. This was a benefit from having a father who was a farmer. With six children in the family, and one income, my parents had to make the most of their food dollar. My mother would not have dreamed making boxed macaroni and cheese for the family. Many prepared foods, whether from the drive thru or a microwave safe package, contain a myriad of unhealthy ingredients. Don't let cooking from scratch intimidate you. Once you start you will be glad you did. My thought is, why should I pay strangers to gather, cook, assemble my package meals when I can do it myself for pennies on the dollar, with a much lower fat content and a higher vitamin content.
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Menu Plan Monday - January 24

2011-01-24T14:09:00.007-05:00

Hello, welcome and thanks for visiting! It's another Monday menu time again. I am a little late on my posting but this is my plan for this week. There are many great menus on organizing junkie!

MONDAY
spaghetti
garlic bread
green salad

TUESDAY
homemade veggie soup
grilled cheese sandwiches
applesauce

WEDNESDAY
bean and cheese burritos
Spanish rice

THURSDAY
beef pot roast w/potatoes and carrots
cottage cheese

FRIDAY
homemade pizza (meat for DH and all veggie for me)

SATURDAY
beef and noodles (made with my homemade noodles) I will post my noodle adventure, LOL, later this week
steamed broccoli

SUNDAY
Defend for ourselves!
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Thankful Thursday

2011-01-20T16:52:00.006-05:00

I will be 53 years young tomorrow.While to some this doesn't seem old, to others including myself it is old. The older I get, the more I dislike birthdays. I would just rather well, forget them. So, this thankful Thursday I thought...what do I have to be thankful for? I am 53, my body aches all the time, I get fatigue rather easily and my mind isn't as sharp as it used to be, my hair is graying faster and faster. I could go on and on. This can make anyone grouchy. Everyone knows some grumpy old men and women. We make excuses for them by saying "he is just set in his ways" or "she has gotten old enough where she has earned the right to be a grouch". But, truth be told, people don't like to be around grouches very much regardless of how old you are. Okay, I may have earned my right to be a grouch, but, people like to be around happy people period! So, as I turn the big 53 tomorrow, I will put on a giant sized smile because I am thankful for my friends ,and family that I can celebrate life. That I can share memories with friends, especially with family. I can celebrate each day as a gift. Growing old gracefully, about enjoying the life I have and being thankful for the things I have for the moment, and striving always to improve upon those things that I can improve on. Isn't that what it is all about? Birthdays, may I have lots of them! Be sure to check out Lynn over at spiritually unequal marriage for more thankful Thursday's.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-01-19T12:33:00.005-05:00

Li'l trucker

Menu Plan Monday 1/17

2011-01-17T10:47:00.004-05:00

Oh my! I weighed myself for the first time since the holidays. Gasp! I gained 5lbs! Statics say that this is typical amount of weight gain between Thanksgiving and Christmas. I am guessing if you look at it this way, however for me 5lbs is 5lbs too many!I need to get back on the bandwagon again I worked too hard last year to shed this weight! after all, I got a skinny pair of jeans ( size smaller) for Christmas that I promised I would be able to get into by spring. This is my incentive anyway. Coming up with meals is hard when I want everything healthy, low calorie and the DH is well, unhealthy. This man could live on just hot dogs, bacon, bologna. Yes! he eats hot dogs for snack food, cold, right out of the refrigerator. Seriously, 1 lb. of hot dogs doesn't last the night. I am thinking nitrate overload! Anyways, I've come up with a menu we can both be satisfied with. Oh! and be sure to visit organizing junkie for more menu ideas and while you are there hook up with her.

MONDAY

omelets veggie for me)

raggedy Ann cinnamon chip muffins*

canned peaches

TUESDAY

macaroni and cheese

green beans

raisin bread pudding

WEDNESDAY

salmon with garlic butter sauce

brown rice

steamed broccoli

THURSDAY

chicken and noodles

butternut squash

FRIDAY

Happy Birthday To Me!

DH is taking me out!

SATURDAY

Swiss steak

mashed potatoes

green tossed salad

SUNDAY

Defend for ourselves!

Raggedy Ann Cinnamon Chip Muffins

These muffins are made with cinnamon baking chips. In the high heat of the oven. ( the oven is set to 425 degrees) the cinnamon chips melt leaving swirls of cinnamon through the muffins. With all that melted cinnamon, the tops are often roughen and ragged and hence the name Raggedy Ann cinnamon chip muffins. These are very good muffins.

This recipe makes 10 large, well domed muffins or 12 smaller ones.

2 lg. eggs

1 cup buttermilk

1 tsp vanilla

2 cups flour

1/3 cup whole rolled oats

1 cup sugar

1/2 tsp baking soda

1/2 tsp baking powder

1/2 tsp salt

1 tsp cinnamon

1 cup cinnamon chips

For the topping

2 tbls. sugar

1/2 tsp cinnamon

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees. Grease muffin pan

Whisk the eggs together in a small bowl. Add the butter milk and vanilla. Set aside. In a medium bowl, mix the flour, oats, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt and cinnamon together. Make a well in the dry ingredients and add the liquid ingredients. Stir only until combined. Add the cinnamon chips. Drop the batter into the greased muffin cups. Mix the 2 tbls. sugar and 1/2 tsp cinnamon together. Spoon the cinnamon sugar over the muffins. Place the muffin pan in the oven Immediately turn the temperature down to 375 degrees. Bake for 15 minutes or until done. Baking times will vary depending on how well your oven holds heat. Cool the muffins on a wire rack.

My Farmville Confession

2011-01-14T18:04:00.007-05:00

Farmville is something to do in your spare time, something that consumes you? Yes, it does but, I find it to be very relaxing. Hi, I am Susan and I'm addicted to farmville. Most of you probably already know about farmville but for those who do not, farmville is a game created for facebook by a company called zynga that allows us users to manage and grow a virtual farm. Apparently, it is the # 1 application on facebook Players earn money to build their farms by planting, growing and harvesting crops. It takes time, patience, and you have to keep up with the game so that your crops don't wither over time. The game lets you cultivate crops in a small amount of time. You use the coins you earn to increase the amount of things you cultivate and how conveniently you can do it. You also can increase the size of your farm. I soon found myself trying to get as much coins as possible, expanding my land, then checking every few minutes, waiting for my crops to be ready for harvesting. I can't let them wither! This game is possibly the most addictive game ever! I can never seem to get enough of it. Yes, it's true, I'm addicted to farmville. It's insanity really. I guess it proves I don't have anything better to do with my time except blogging of course. I owe all the thanks to my sweet brother-in-law who informed me I should give this game a try. This was last fall. It sounded very intriguing. It demanded my attention and curious, decided to give it a try. Was it a mistake or not? I ask myself that question alot. I can't ever see myself saying goodbye to farmville, at least not in the future anyway. It's not an addiction that I'm particularly proud of, but hey, at least I know I am not alone. Who else is willing to confess?

Thankful Thursday

2011-01-13T17:02:00.006-05:00

Sometimes some weeks can be hard financially, especially in the winter when DH is layed off. It seems the money is barely there to get through the week. I could go to work if I chose to, but, my age and with my back problems now, it limits me to what I could do. DH has never pushed me or expected me to work. We may not be wealthy and never will be. I am content living the simple frugal life and so is DH. We have a roof over our head, food on the table, the bills always somehow get paid. God watches over us and takes care of us. Sometimes what we wish for doesn't fall in our laps, rather it falls somewhere nearby and we have to recognize it, stand up, and put in the time and work it takes to get it. I suppose it's because we wouldn't appreciate it as much if it came too easy. Everyday I am thankful what we are blessed with. God has been so good to us. Stop for a moment and think about all the things in your life that are worth being thankful for and check out Lynn at spiritually unequal marriage. She is hosting thankful Thursday this week, and be blessed.

Freezer Slaw

2011-01-12T20:08:00.005-05:00

What do you do when you acquire 3 very large bags of chopped cabbage? You make freezer slaw of course! My nephew works at a fast food place and at the end of the night if there is food left, the employees get the option of taking it home or the restaurant just throws the food away. The same principle applies to food that is about to expire or expired,. The employees can take if wanted or the food goes in the dumpster. Gasp! There is nothing wrong with the food and is perfectly good even if beyond a day or two. So here we were sitting with 3 very large bags of chopped cabbage and 1 very large bag of shredded lettuce. Since this is perfectly good food yet but, needs to be used soon, I have to make something with it quick. I had already made slaw for our supper Monday so, unless I want to eat cabbage morning noon and night and have the cleanest colon in the neighborhood. I will have to freeze all this cabbage. *Freezer slaw makes perfect since. I have this wonderful recipe I have had for years. It is easy and very delicious. Keep in mind, I used 1/2 of a large bag of chopped cabbage to equal a large head of cabbage. The recipe doesn't call for onions but you can add red onions.

*FREEZER SLAW
1 cabbage
1 carrot
1 sweet pepper (I used frozen green pepper)
1 tsp. salt
1 cup vinegar
2 cups sugar ( I only use 1 1/2 cup at the most)
1/2 water
1tsp mustard seed
Chop cabbage, carrot, and pepper. Cover with salt and let set for 1 hour. Squeeze the salt and water out of cabbage. Mix vinegar, sugar, water and mustard seed in 2 qt. pot. Bring to boil and boil 3 minutes, let cool. Pour over cabbage, stir well, let stand 3 minutes. Freeze

I froze 10 quarts of slaw. This will be good eating this winter and beyond to go with all the bluegill we have in our freezer.

Ice fishing..... Love it or hate it

2011-01-11T10:36:00.007-05:00

Monday for supper we had bluegill my dad and I caught on the pond this summer. I had froze them for some delicious eating this winter. My DH has been out a few times ice fishing so far this winter, something he never got to do last winter, in fact he is out fishing right now. I don't balk as he enjoys his man time and I enjoy my no man time. I would love to go out with him a couple of times. but, I dislike the cold and not sure if this old body can handle this sort of thing anymore. DH assured me when the temperature warms up in the 30 degree range I can go. Not going to argue with that. I will stay home where it is warm and let the DH freeze his old hiney, bring home the fish, ( if he catches any) clean them and I will cook them. I like to take each precious piece, dip in egg and roll in panko crumbs. I salt and pepper them and fry them in a small amount of canola oil until they are golden. mmmm-mmmm you just can't beat the taste of bluegill. Anyways, for those of you that have never ice fished, ice fishing is the practice of catching fish in an opening in the ice which you have drilled with an ice auger. If you are bothered by the cold, this kind of fishing is probably not for you. There has been many times DH has gone out and sat out on the iced lake or pond for hours and never caught a thing. However, the times I went out with him we were lucky and caught many fish right after another. It must have been the adrenaline flowing but, this kept me from thinking how cold I was. Ice fishing has an allure all of it's own. Some say it is peaceful, some say it's relaxing, most say it's crazy. There is very little debate when it comes to ice fishing. People usually love it or hate it. Perhaps you should try it and decide for yourself.

MENU PLAN MONDAY 1/10

2011-01-10T09:18:00.004-05:00

Hello everyone! Hope everyone had a good weekend. It feels so good to be back planing my menus. What a way to start 2011. This week, in particular, the money is tight and with DH layed off for the winter, the pennies have to be pinched even so tighter. We will have to make do on what we have in stock. It doesn't seem to be much of a problem this week as we still have quite a bit left in the freezer and a fairly well stocked pantry. Ahhh.....the beauty of stockpiling. However, our meat supply is getting low. I personally, can live without so much meat as I have never been a big meat eater but, for DH that would be a catastrophe. This man loves his meat! I will most definitely need to visit our local butcher the following week. In the meantime, here is this weeks menu plan. Don't forget to visit orgjunkie.com for more menu plans.

MONDAY
pan fried bluegill
sweet potato fries
cole slaw

TUESDAY
goulash
green beans
applesauce

WEDNESDAY
chili (made with our venison)
homemade bread

THURSDAY
chicken and stuffing (in crock pot)
steamed cauliflower
mashed potatoes

FRIDAY
chicken and veggie stir fry
brown rice

SATURDAY
leftover chili
grilled cheese sandwiches

SUNDAY
on our own

Return to the bloggy world and planning my seed order

2011-01-08T13:22:00.005-05:00

I have been thinking it's about time to start posting in this blog of mine again. After a rather extensive long bloggy break, It is time to get out of hibernation and get this old brain working again. This has been an extremely busy and interesting last few months in 2010. I might add, that these months have gone buy just way too fast for me. I am sure 2011 won't be any different. I have big plans for this year already. My bloggy world is no exception. I will be striving to give you postings everyday, well, at least a bit less sparse. After looking at the dates of my blog posts in 2010, they are little and far between. It's a little sad. I don't know if I even been missed. I apologise for being gone so long. I've missed you guys. I hope you haven't given up on me. It will take me awhile to get back into the blogging groove but, I am ever determined to do so. So what have I been doing the last few months? Well, I have accomplished quite a bit which of course makes me happy. With the holidays behind us, This month I have been using this time to get my spring garden planned out. You could say, I am a gardening enthusiast. Yep, I'm already thinking about spring. Are you as eager as I for Spring? It's time to empty my seed stash on the floor and see what I need to order for my spring planting. I have been looking at several seed catalogs and have decided to order through Gurneys this year. I have ordered through them in the past and have always had good luck with their seed and service. I will buy my plants, seed potatoes and onion sets at our local Rural King store. This year I hope to introduce some new varieties to the Herlan garden. My list is almost finished. I will be ready to send in my order by the beginning of next month. I am taking it one day at a time.

I am still here

2010-08-04T11:51:00.007-04:00

Yes, I am still here. I haven't had much time to write any postings as I have been way too occupied with my garden. canning, freezing and so forth. So, I apologize. You know how that can be. When the garden produce is ready, it really can't wait. Every year I try to can and freeze as much as I can for the winter. We never know from one year to the next about DH's job in the winter. DH is usually laid off but, I can remember the one year it took 9 weeks before unemployment paid him. This can be a nightmare if you don't have a stockpile to refer to. I am canning tomatoes at the moment along with tomato juice. I use alot of this stuff. I have canned up green beans, zucchini relish, sweet pickle relish, cucumber sandwich pickles. I froze zucchini some shredded for bread and muffins and some sliced for sauteing, green peppers, sweet banana peppers, blueberries, and strawberries. Yesterday I dried some fresh sweet basil in the oven on warm heat. I was getting a bit low on this wonderful herb. This week and next I will be making Sweet Anne's lace jelly* and grape jelly and maybe can up some peaches. I also have some sweet pickles in the making and pickled beets on the agenda. I figure this is going to all taste good this winter along with the venison DH gets every year. It would be nice to stock up on everything including your meat where in the winter all you would have to buy is your perishables like milk and eggs. It is a really nice thought, I guess it's been a dream of mine. I have been going fishing some with DH and earlier with my dad this summer I have a good quantity of bluegill built up in the freezer now as well . If the winter goes like last year, DH never found the chance to go ice fishing and use any of his 64 ice fishing poles. What a shame! Sorry honey! There is many benefits to stocking up on food and other daily needs. Some of them are surprisingly intangible. There is a certain peace that comes from knowing that your home is well enough stocked to get you through a few months of anything. I hate the cold winter and the last thing I want to do is mega shopping in a snowstorm. Here is my recipe for Queen Anne's Lace Jelly. Queen anne's lace is also known as wild carrot and you can find this weed anywhere, in your yard, along the roadside, fields, ect. This jelly is so good.
Queen Anne's Lace Jelly*
4 cups of water
18 Large queen anne's lace flower heads
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1 pkg powdered pectin
3 1/2 cup plus 2 Tbls sugar
red food coloring (optional)
Bring water to a boil and remove from heat. Add the flower heads pushing them down into the water. Cover and steep for 30 min. Remove the lid and let the mixture cool. Slightly about 15 min. Strain the liquid through a dampened cheesecloth, discarding the flower heads. Measure out 3 cups of the liquid into a 4-6 quart pan. Add the lemon juice and pectin and bring to a rolling a boil. Stir constant (very important) add the sugar, stir constant and cook until the mixture returns to a rolling boil. Boil 1 min. longer. Remove from the heat. Add enough red food color (2 drops) If using to tint the jelly pink, then skim off any foam. Pour into sterile jars leaving 1/4 inch head space, with damp cloth, remove any spills from the rim and thread of the jars. Process in hot water bath for 5 min. * makes approx. 6 jelly jars

Menu Plan Monday 7/12/10

2010-07-12T08:38:00.005-04:00

Here we go again, another Monday and another menu plan already. I hope all of you had a great week and weekend. Mine was a busy one for sure. As always, this time of year will do that to you. My garden is doing an amazing job of supplying us with plenty of fresh green beans, cucumbers, zucchini, yellow crookneck squash at the moment. Yummy! However, I am having a bit of problem with some kind of animal, woodchuck.....maybe?....eating my beans and just leaving the end snip on the plant. Grrrrrrr......my squash seems to have some evidence of squash bugs also pooh! Anyone else having any problems with such pests? Friday I went to the blueberry farm and picked blueberries. I made a blueberry pie and blueberry zucchini bread after freezing 8- 1 1/2 pint and 3 quart containers of blueberries. This will be more than enough for DH and I considering we still have some left from last year. I also had an abundance of zucchini so I made 48 *whole wheat chocolate zucchini muffins in which I saved a few out for eating now and gave some away. I froze the rest for later. I was pooped after all that! Even though I was tired that didn't stop me from going fishing later that evening with DH. We caught 13 nice bluegill. This was good considering the fish here at the lake has had some kind of lockjaw lately. Saturday afternoon my dad joined us on the pontoon for a little fishing. We caught 38 nice ones. As for my menu this week it looks like it will have to be easy and simple. This is pretty much what I try to do every week anyways. Looks like another busy week ahead planned! Stop by orgjunkie for more menus!

MONDAY

BLT's

fresh cucumber slices

blueberry pie

TUESDAY

*summer stew ( This is very delicious and l look forward to this every year with my fresh green beans)

watermelon

WEDNESDAY

grilled pork chops

corn on the cob

garlic potatoes

THURSDAY

We will be going out

FRIDAY

grilled salmon with zucchini

brown rice

SATURDAY

chef salads

SUNDAY

On our own today!

SATURDAY

* Summer stew

This is something I basically made up consisting of fresh green beans, sliced onion, kielbasa sausage, bacon and red potatoes ( I leave the skin on and cut into bite size chunks) salt, pepper and all cooked together in fair amount of water until tender. Yum! Yum!

Thankful Thursday

2010-07-01T21:50:00.007-04:00

Today is Thankful Thursday. Lynn over at spiritually unequal marriage is hosting this month., so be sure to visit her and be blessed! As for myself I could write a book on all the things I am thankful for. But, for Today I will make this Thankful Thursday simple and brief. The Lord has been there for my DH and I every day, every moment. He continues to bless us. Today was no exception. My DH got hurt at work. For 7 years he has never had any accidents or major sickness. Today he happened to be working with his boss cutting a piece of steel with the sawall and in a split second his boss slipped and DH's middle finger on his right hand was literally split wide open. He was rushed to the doctor and had 13 stitches, 3 inside and 10 outside. I cannot thank the Lord enough for sparing DH's finger as it just missed his tendon .It was an accident that could of been alot worse than it was. I thank the Lord everyday for my husband. DH's blood pressure was a bit high and the doctor suggested to cease the smoking. I am thinking this is going to take alot of prayer.

I am also thankful I still have my father. The time I spend with him is amazing. We have had a couple of great times fishing on the pond this past week.

I am thankful for our garden and how well it's growing this year and the food it provides for our table, the full freezer of meat and the good stockpile on the shelves.

So what are you thankful for this week? Remember, In all things give thanks!

A llittle of this and that

2010-06-29T22:17:00.007-04:00

If I am not posting as much anymore during the week, It is because I have been extremely busy like tending my garden, Oh my....with all the rain and warm weather the garden is growing crazy and so are the weeds. I have been trying to stay on top of it all which is a tackle in itself these days. Oh..how embarrassing to have a weedy garden. Weeds are a fact of life with a garden and they need to be pulled. Seriously, I have to be attentive to them. Turn your back on them and they are back in your garden! When I am not tending the garden I have been fishing and having coffee with my Dad. In fact, I went again this morning with him and we reeled in 47 beautiful bluegill. The rest of the day was spent helping clean fish dividing the bluegill between us. I put 4 containers full in the freezer for this winter. We had so much fun that we fished again early this evening. This time, DH went with us. We took home 50 fish. HA! This time DH received the honors of cleaning them. I put 4 more containers in the freezer. We are ever so thankful the Lord has blessed us once again with a mess of fish. I must not forget the quality time spent with my father. Oh yes, and then there is our pet rabbit. Why have a pet if you never spend any time caring for it? I got this hair brained idea a couple of days ago to let little Bunny Boo in the house. I carefully spread newspapers all over the floor in one room. I can't trust the little guy after he peed on my friend from down the road. Okay, I am so glad this lady has a sense of humour! Anyways Bunny Boo and our little Yorkie/shitzu played and played...chasing each other like they were playing tag and were best buddies. It was hilarious! Now, I am not making a habit of bringing my rabbit in the house all the time. I have however have been making a habit of spoiling the little guy. Okay, No more excuses. I promise to get on the bandwagon here soon. Just know I am okay. Maybe you can relate?

Wordless Wednesday...New addition to our family

2010-06-23T12:52:00.003-04:00

Meet Bunny Boo Rockstar! He is the new addition to the family. I am already spoiling the little guy. ummmm...I think he is a boy. I suppose it doesn't really matter considering it is the only bunny and no plans for more. He loves to be held and has a problem wanting to go back to his cage afterwards.

Fishing with my Dad

2010-06-22T09:06:00.006-04:00

I went fishing with my Dad yesterday morning. We have been talking about going fishing on the pond by his place for quite awhile. Yep, just my Dad and I. The pond seems so different than the lake when it comes to fishing. My thinking is that the fish are dumber. Really, some of the best bluegill fishing can be found in ponds. Remember always ask permission to fish on private ponds. If you are simply wanting to catch alot of fish regardless of size, most ponds will provide ample bluegill action. I grew up fishing from a small farm pond located close enough to my house that we could walk to it. I remember many times fishing with my mom, my dad and grandma. Ponds are still a great place to catch fish! Dad and I caught 38 nice bluegill in a couple of hours in the morning. I hooked a small bass and a few young ones that were too small to keep. My DH bought me a really cute lightweight 12 ft. cane pole awhile back. I love that pole! I have hooked more large bluegill with that little gem. I gave my dad the exact same pole for fathers day. He also hooked more fish with that little gem! Bluegill spawn in spring and early summer and this is a good time to catch them. When the water exceeds 70 degrees, begin looking for spawning bluegill in shallow water on their beds. Which explains why so many large bluegill we caught were females loaded with eggs. We cleaned all 38 fish. Dad filleted with his electric knife and I cut out the ribs. As a team it seemed like we had the fish cleaned in no time! Here's a picture of my dad cleaning the fish.

All in all, It was a great way to spend the day and be rewarded with some tasty eating!

What to do if you lock your keys in the car

2010-06-18T11:13:00.012-04:00

Have you ever locked your keys in the car? and you don't have a spare key? If so, what did you do? Now, chances are most of us have locked our keys in the car at one time or another. For me..ahem..it happened one day last week or so in the Meier parking lot. Yes, it was just one of those things that happened. Yesterday DH and I were at the bank and this poor young woman had done the same thing. Yep, locked those darn keys in the car. Did she have a spare key? nope! This obviously was not her first time doing this neither. I am sure she felt like I did, like an idiot! I was frustrated, embarrassed and mad at myself, and like a dummy no spare key! Now, it was just one of those things I put off because, I never thought this would happen. So, what did I do? Well, I had to call my DH from work and wait by the car until he arrived. He somehow found a piece of very thin metal at work and was able to somehow trigger the lock switch. This was kinda embarrassing since my car's anti theft system alarm blared throughout the parking lot until I could stop it! Anyways, Don't panic or flip out. There is some solutions we can all do. Well, just in case this ever happens to you.

1. Get a spare key or two made. For just a few dollars, you've got real peace of mind. This has to be the most simple solution to a relatively simple problem. After this incident I go three extra keys made at Menards.
2. Keep your spare key in a secure location. Place the other one in maybe a magnetic key case which can be hidden along a metal surface of your vehicle. Give a key to a trusted family member. I now keep an extra key in my purse, I also keep a spare key at home and gave a key to DH.
3. If you have On Star you can call the helpline. They remotely send a signal to your vehicle and unlock your door. Since DH and I drive older vehicles and this can cost about $200 a year this option is a no go for us!
4. Talk to your insurance company. If your vehicle is on warranty, you can call the roadside assistance line. They will open your car for free. Again not an option for us.

Don't panic! There are solutions and there are preventable solutions. The biggest mistake we can make is flipping out! Have you ever locked your keys accidentally in the car?

Menu Plan Monday

2010-06-14T15:33:00.006-04:00

Is it Monday again already? My, how these weeks fly. I have been trying to catch up on a few things around the house and yard. The weather has been very warm and very humid, rains about every day and not to mention I don't know about anywhere else but, here at the lake the mosquitoes are many and hungry! which makes this whole working in the yard or garden difficult. In my garden my veggies are growing fast and so are the weeds. We have been eating fresh lettuce, spinach, Green onions, radishes. I planted lots of the stuff and therefor eating many green salads. But, that's okay because its all low in calories and very good for you. So, unto the menu for this week...

MONDAY

On our own! A little of this and a little of that from the weekend that needs to be eaten!

TUESDAY

chef salads, berry smoothies

WEDNESDAY

baked chicken w/cornbread dressing, green beans

THURSDAY

cabbage w/kielbasa

FRIDAY

stuffed green peppers, corn muffins

SATURDAY

grilled salmon, tossed green salad, brown rice

SUNDAY

On our own!

For more meal planning ideas visit organizing junkie!

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Wordless Wednesday

2010-06-09T22:25:00.004-04:00

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Another yard sale over

2010-06-08T20:07:00.004-04:00

Another yard sale of mine is over and I am so ever thankful! For now, I am not sure when I will have the third one or if I will. DH and I are thinking of setting up at some of the local flea markets maybe, possibly, a table or two of stuff but, that is a big if at the moment. Flea markets are an excellent option for those with alot of stuff to get rid of or if you live in an area with low traffic, primarily non-residential, live in an apartment or other residence that doesn't allow yard sales .You are guaranteed more customers at a flea market than at a yard sale even if your neighborhood is great for your yard sales. Most people come to find bargains but, they expect to pay more than at a yard sale.Anyways I am glad this sale is over for now. Yard sales are alot of work especially when they are as big as mine are. but, I've had alot of fun and they have been profitable for DH and I. This time when we cleaned up I got rid of at least 2/3 of the clothes and 1/2 of all the other junk. My son took it all but the clothes which I donated them. He hopes to run a yard sale of his own for some extra money. Personally, I am just so tired of dealing with all this stuff! It may sound crazy, but all this stuff just stresses me out! By having too much stuff laying around, it takes time and effort to maintain it and takes my attention away from other things I would rather be focusing on. It wastes my time because when I have all this clutter around i have to search for things I have but can't find quickly or not at all. Okay...In short I've tried more. It's awful. I want less, and I want it now!
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Menu Plan Monday 6/7

2010-06-07T21:58:00.006-04:00

UGH! I finally have the chance to sit at my computer and get my Menu Plan Monday posted. It seems every time I thought I had a chance something would come up like company or something that prevented me from doing so. It's late, and I hope I can get this posted now before bedtime. Be sure to check out organizing junkie for many many more menus! For this week my menu is...

MONDAY

we had grilled pork chops

baked potatoes on the grill

tossed salad with fresh greens, radishes,and green onions from my garden

fresh strawberries with shortcake

TUESDAY

smothered chicken

green beans

brown rice

WEDNESDAY

fresh bluegill we caught Monday eve

baked french fries

tossed salad

THURSDAY

we usually eat out this night!

FRIDAY

goulash

garlic bread

plums

SATURDAY

omelets ( veggie for me)

strawberry muffins

fruit smoothies

SUNDAY

on our own!

So that's my plan. What's on your menu this week?

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Menu Plan Monday- May 31

2010-05-31T20:05:00.008-04:00

Oh my! Monday is almost over with and I forgot to post my menu plan Monday. Hope everyone out there had a great memorial day weekend. DH and I stayed busy all weekend. Our town had citywide garage sales and we attempted to hit a few over the last few days....not that I needed anything because the past few months I have been overwhelmed with junk and the idea is to get rid of the junk and not make new junk. But, I was hoping I would find a few select items I truly needed and could there for use. This weekend is our lake association garage sales. DH and I are trying to get ready for yet our second sale of the year. I am afraid though the weather could be against us for this one..well we will see what happens. I really need to unload the rest of all this stuff we have accumalated this past winter. We also had the grand kids over yesterday for swimming and pontoon ride. They love to ride Papas big boat. My menu this week looks like this...

MONDAY
we had leftover burgers( we grilled yesterday in place of having tacos )

TUESDAY
goulash
garlic bread

WEDNESDAY
tacos your way
peach smoothies

THURSDAY
Not sure...out maybe?

FRIDAY
cube steak
mashed potatoes
green beans

SATURDAY
chicken and veggie stir fry
brown rice

SUNDAY
on our own!

For more really great menus, be sure to check out organizing junkie and be sure to link up with your own menu!

Menu Plan Monday

2010-05-24T16:48:00.004-04:00

I am sorry about my late posting. After an extremely busy, busy, day, I feel I can finally sit down to my menu plan Monday. The thermometer reads hot! The forecast calls for hot, summer like temps the rest of the week. Now I am not complaining in the least it's just a little hot! Neither DH or I have a big appetite when it's this hot and this time of year I am usually too busy with other things to want to spend alot of time in the kitchen so considering all this my menu is going to be easy, fast and light and after a really slow start......well, you get the picture.....

MONDAY

omelets with ham veggies and cheese

sweetest muffins

strawberry/banana smoothies

TUESDAY

grilled pork chops

sugar snap peas

garlic mashed potatoes

WEDNESDAY

chef salads

THURSDAY

out???

FRIDAY

bluegill

baked fries

tossed green salad

SATURDAY

taco night (build your own tacos)

Don't forget to check out organizing junkie for more great menus!

Almost Wordless Wednesday

2010-05-19T20:38:00.010-04:00

How do you get 2 little grandkids together to sit still long enough to snap a picture?

A new picnic table for Reese"s birthday and birthday cake of course!

Menu Plan Monday

2010-05-17T07:43:00.011-04:00

Oh my, Its Monday again and time for another menu plan for the week. It is now slowed down after an entire weekend with our granddaughter. It was a great weekend. Jasmyne is such a smart and good girl. She growing up so fast. We ate breakfast out twice, watched her play t-ball at her practice, went yard saleing, went fishing, played computer games, ( she is smart at these), played barbies, painted our toenails, read books, gave lots of hugs and kisses, and snuggled. Did I leave out anything? It was a great time spent and looking forward we can do it all over again. Reese's birthday party yesterday was great. She and her little brother have so much energy. My, it wore papa and Mimi out just watching them run around. My menu for this week was easy to come up with as I just got groceries and my stockpile is way up again. I shouldn't have to buy anything for awhile. So, for this weeks menu.......

MONDAY

grilled lemon pepper chicken breasts

brown rice pilaf

corn on the cob

TUESDAY

egg salad sandwiches

cantaloupe filled with cherry jello (recipe here)

baked fries

WEDNESDAY

spaghetti and meatballs

large tossed green salad

THURSDAY

out?????

FRIDAY

hamburgers on the grill

baked beans

fresh raw veggies or tossed green salad

SATURDAY

ham steak

potato salad

steamed asparagus

SUNDAY

leftovers!

organizing junkie has many more menu ideas, so be sure to check her out!

Diet Plateau

2010-05-13T14:53:00.004-04:00

As everyone knows, I have adopted a diet plan hoping to achieve weight loss and live a healthier lifestyle. I bid bye-bye to my old eating habits and given up many of my favorite foods in favor for healthier alternatives. My hard work paid off and I lost nearly 20 lbs! But, now it seems I've hit this diet plateau demon. For a few weeks now the scale hasn't moved an inch. Anyone who has ever been on a diet knows how discouraging it is. I have tried hard to try to not get disheartened. Today I decided to put on this shirt which I love but, have never been able to wear because of being waaay too tight. I couldn't bear to get rid of it because it is so darn cute. I couldn't believe it! The shirt fits me awesome with lots of room to spare! Okay, So I came up with this conclusion...A diet plateau can be discouraging and demotivating, but, don't give up! In my case, I have been exercising so much more and they do say muscle weighs more than fat. It's good to lose weight but, losing inches is great! I must be doing something right! I have made a commitment to live a healthy lifestyle, in return lose some pounds and so I will outsmart my metabolism and conquer the diet plateau!

Thankful Thursday

2010-05-13T12:24:00.009-04:00

Counting my blessings here today! This weekend our granddaughter Jasmyne will be spending all weekend here with her Mimi and Papa. Jasmyne is such a joy and delight. She is growing up so fast, and Reese's birthday is today and just turned 4 years old. Where does the time go? They say life is short..how true I find this to be. Anyways, I am thankful for all our grandchildren, each one with a unique personality and so much love to give. They are truly a blessing from God!

I am thankful for all the work we have been able to accomplish around our house, inside and out., work that needed to be done and wouldn't have gotten done if not been the money we were able to make from our yard sale a few weeks back. God blessed us once again!

The Lord has been so good to us this year and has blessed us in so many ways threefold! I cannot thank God enough. I hope these blessing will help me become a blessing to others. I believe blessings are given to us so that we might produce more fruit. Blessings are a sign of God's grace, that is his goodness to us even though we don't deserve it, not a reward for good works, and we need to use these blessings in the way God wants. I hope I can become a blessing to others.

What are you thankful for this week? Laurie is hosting thankful Thursday this month. Take time to stop by her blog and read what others are thankful for. Don't forget to count your blessings! Be blessed!

My garden is growing!

2010-05-12T15:27:00.009-04:00

My veggies are growing! It has only been a mere week since I planted them and they are already poking themselves out of the ground.

These are my radishes!

my green onions....

and my mesclum mix!

Do you have a garden? How is your garden growing? I can hardly wait to enjoy a fresh green salad from these veggies! I first fell in love with the idea of growing my own veggies when I was still a quite young child. My father was a farmer, my mom was a stay at home mother and raised us 6 kids on only my dads income. We always had the necessities, and with my dad being a dairy farmer we always had milk and meat. When I were really little I can remember my parents having chickens for eggs also but, they always had a very large garden in which they grew all of our vegetables. Neat rows of carrots, lettuce, green beans, sweet corn. I am so glad my parent's enthusiasm for a large garden and growing all their veggies has rubbed off on me. Having my own garden and growing my own veggies, deciding which veggies to plant, preparing the ground, sowing and tending the plants and finally harvesting the produce and eating it is an activity I will always enjoy!

Menu Plan Monday-May 10

2010-05-11T10:09:00.006-04:00

It's better late than never! I was too busy yesterday to post my menu for this week. It seemed I no longer woke up in the morning and it was already time for bed again! To tell you the truth, I'm not sure what happened to the day. The weather here in Indiana has been so rainy, cold and windy so, that when it is sunny and decent outside I feel the need to take advantage of the situation. We are having our oldest granddaughter Jasmyne, staying for the entire weekend this week. I am excited as we haven't seen this granddaughter for a good long while. They grow up so fast. Mimi and Papa plan to spend alot of quality time with her. She loves to go out and eat and go to garage sales with us but not sure what else is on the agenda. We also have another granddaughter who's birthday party is Sunday. Reese will be turning 4 years old. So, for my menu this week I will be throwing in some kid friendly foods Friday and Saturday that I believe Jasmyne will like. Friday she will enjoy helping make the pizza. We will probably go to our favorite restaurant for breakfast a couple of times as, she always requests or should I say, tells us she wants pancakes, sausage, and chocolate milk at village kitchen. My menu this week looks like this....

MONDAY

grilled pork chops

brown rice pilaf

steamed fresh asparagus (from our patch)

TUESDAY

goulash

canned purple plums

WEDNESDAY

grilled chicken breasts

pea salad

garlic potatoes

THURSDAY

progresso minestrone soup

grilled cheese sandwiches

fresh cut up veggies

FRIDAY

homemade pizza (veggie for me)

pop

SATURDAY

garlic cheesy bread

lasagna

green salad

SUNDAY

Reese's birthday party!

Be sure to check out organizing junkie for more amazing menus!

Busy as a bee

2010-05-06T15:27:00.008-04:00

Earlier this week I mentioned I was going to play catch up. That's exactly what I have been doing. Having many undone tasks can only make things confusing and it really feels good to finally get caught up some. I have been busy doing things all day, doing, doing, doing, busy as a bee, flying from one project to another hoping to accomplish alot in my hive of activity. DH tilled our garden a couple of days ago and yesterday I couldn't wait to dig my hands in the soil and plant. I planted 2 hills of zucchini, 2 hills of summer yellow crookneck squash, 10 hills of potatoes, carrots, lettuce(leaf), spinach, green onions,thyme, dill, mesclum salad mix, chives and regular onions. I am waiting to plant my green beans, tomatoes, green and red peppers, sweet banana peppers, cucumbers and whatever else I decide. This weekend the temps are supposed to dip down in the thirty's at night. I have some flowers I need to plant and so I will wait a few days to plant them as well. Speaking of flowers my Iris's and peony's are bursting with blooms. I am afraid the lilacs around here are about done. It's a shame, they smell soooo.....good and they are here today, gone tomorrow. Who doesn't love fresh asparagus or a homemade rhubarb pie. I picked another bunch of asparagus from our bed and have enough now for dinner someday next week. I also picked some rhubarb and will make a fresh rhubarb pie tomorrow morning for our dinner tomorrow night. yummy! okay, I know I am on a diet, but, I can have a tiny piece maybe? This pie was to be made yesterday but, I never got to it. Our three sheds are just about all painted. We have just one more to. It's starting to look pretty good around the place now. DH says this weekend sounds like a good weekend weather wise to start painting inside the house. As you can see, it's been buzzing around here! Here is the recipe I use for my fresh rhubarb pie. It is absolutely delicious especially with a cup of coffee. Enjoy! http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Fresh-Rhubarb-Pie/Detail.aspx
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Menu Plan monday

2010-05-03T16:00:00.007-04:00

How was your weekend? There is one thing about this time of year and its that there is always something to do or that needs to be done. DH and I have been painting our sheds. Tonight we should have the two out of the three done. It's looking good! Nothing like a splash of color on the otherwise unpainted wood. As for our garden, I have my plants and seeds ready to plant. DH will till the garden tomorrow night. We sure are lagging behind this year. Perhaps this week we will be able to play catch up.For this weeks menu we are having......

MONDAY

cabbage with polish kielbasa sausage

whole wheat bread

tapioca pudding

TUESDAY

ridiculous easy beef roast (in crock pot)

red potatoes

carrots

WEDNESDAY

beef and noodles ( made with leftover roast)

green beans

rhubarb pie ( for the DH)

THURSDAY

grilled lemon pepper chicken breasts

brown rice

tossed green salad

FRIDAY

chef salads

purple plums (canned)

SATURDAY

chicken and veggie stir fry

MOTHERS DAY

????Hmmm don't' know what DH has up his sleeve

For more meal plans check out organizing junkie

Thankful Thursday

2010-04-29T21:43:00.005-04:00

This weeks Thankful Thursday is hosted by Lynn at spiritually unequal marrige. Wow! Another Thankful Thursday. Where does the time go? I swear the older I get the quicker time passes! This week I am thankful for so many things. We had an awesome yard sale last week which in turn helped us buy some river rock for our driveway. Yea! no more mud and dirt! I am also thankful it bought paint for our sheds. Our one shed was bare and had never had any paint or nothing. It was in dire need of a good coat of paint not only to look good but to keep the wood from rotting. I painted the little shed today and what a difference a good coat of paint did. My eyes are going to have to get used to this! We also got some paint to paint the inside of the house. The last time we painted was in 2005. Its not real bad but, it could use it. We have that thing if you take a picture down off the wall you can see the outline. No problem unless you hang something in its place and it doesn't cover the outline. Oops! It bugs me! I am also thankful for my health. I am 52 years young, Now I admit I am no spring chicken but, I don't do too bad. I am trying to eat right and exercise, and get plenty of rest and hope to ward off any big health issues like heart problems, diabetes and so forth. Oh, and I am so very thankful and most thankful and blessed to have such a great husband and family. DH is very good to me and the past couple of years I have never been as close to my father as I am now. I cherish the time I spend with him drinking coffee and talking. It is something I will always remember. It is good! So what are you thankful for this week?

Wordless Wednesday

2010-04-28T21:32:00.006-04:00

Our grandson's birthday party was last Sunday. He turned 2 years old.

2010-04-26T14:28:00.005-04:00

I can't tell you how glad I am this weekends over! My yard sale has been fun but, I am soooo.....very tired. We will be finishing the clean up from the sale today as it has rained all day the past 2 days. Yesterday was our grandsons birthday. He has turned 2 years old. We spent all afternoon in Michigan for that. Anyways, for the menu this week it is back to our normal routine except Saturday and Sunday which will be spending the day in Shipshawana, IN and a little granddaughter who turns 4 on Sunday with yet another party to go to. This week looks like this...

MONDAY

grilled ham steak

fresh steamed asparagus ( from our own patch)

potato salad

TUESDAY

spaghetti and meatballs

tossed green salad

WEDNESDAY

grilled chicken breast

garlic potatoes

fresh steamed broccoli

THURSDAY

out!

FRIDAY

chicken and veggie stir fry

brown rice

SATURDAY

we will be out and about all day!

SUNDAY

granddaughters birthday party!

For more plans visit orgjunkie

A Fantastic Yard Sale and Pics

2010-04-24T20:53:00.012-04:00

My yard sale is over for now. Maybe in a couple of weeks I will have another but, not right away. I am pooped! It was a fantastic sale. Again we were blessed. The weather except for Saturday was beautiful and the people came in mobs steady all day on Thursday. Friday was just a steady flow of people all day. Time went soooo......fast. It was crazy for awhile but there was 3 of us and it all worked out great. Saturday it was rainy all day. The stuff was getting wet, but the people still kept on coming. We still have alot of stuff but we sure made a good dent. As I promised, I am a little late but, I am posting these pictures of my sale. See? I told you it was huge! It took almost all my yard and I had so much alot of stuff had to stay in tubs as I didn't have room. We made it work though. Most everyone that came said "gee, you have alot of stuff" What do you think?

Menu Plan Monday

2010-04-19T07:46:00.005-04:00

It's menu planning Monday again! Gosh, The month of April is just flying on by! Way too fast for me! This week is the big week, the week of my yard sale.There is plenty to do and plenty of stuff! This sale is so huge I am not sure if my yard is big enough to support all there is! DH has been scrambling to find old wood dock sections for some of my tables. These dock sections work out great! I am a bit stressed though this morning as my neighbor that was to help me today can't now as she got into some poison ivy or something like that and her hand yesterday swelled twice the size, itching and oozing, yuck! She said she has to see the doctor today if possible.So, I am on my own completely with no one else to help me. I hope to get plenty accomplished though. With all this said, I won't be on my computer much at all this week if any. I will be back however next week on a regular basis. I am taking pictures of my sale and I will post them Wednesday though! For my menu this week, what else but simple and fast. I will be pooped!

MONDAY

grilled hamburgers

pea salad

TUESDAY

spaghetti

tossed green salad

WEDNESDAY

(breakfast for dinner)

omelets

toast

hash browns

THURSDAY

OUT!

FRIDAY

take home pizza

SATURDAY

not sure yet

SUNDAY

on our own

Check out orgjunkie for more menu's

Menu Plan Monday

2010-04-12T08:57:00.004-04:00

It's Monday and you know what that means....Welcome to menu plan Monday! Now, I will make this short and sweet. I'm scrambling a bit this morning. My neighbor is coming over and we have another big day sorting and pricing. Quite frankly I will be glad when this sale is all over, as it's been a bit on the chaotic side around this household the past few weeks. Anyways onto to our menu this week....

MONDAY

chicken and noodles

green beans

TUESDAY

chef salads

WEDNESDAY

grilled pork chops

brown rice

steamed broccoli

THURSDAY

out!

FRIDAY

meatloaf

mashed potatoes

corn

SATURDAY

meatloaf sandwiches

some kind of jello salad

SUNDAY

on our own!

For more plans visit orgjunkie.com

2010 Ultimate Blog Party- Party On!

2010-04-09T21:00:00.006-04:00

Hello and welcome to the 2010 ultimate blog party! Sponsored by 5 minutes for mom So glad you have stopped by. This is my second blog party and I love it! Let the party begin! My name is Susan, I'm a grandma now and have 5 beautiful grandchildren whom I love to spoil, each and everyone of them. It is so much fun. My husband John and I got married in 2005 ( this is my second marriage) and I am so happy. He is the best husband in the world. My blog is where I write whatever is on my mind about that day. I love to fish alot so I usually have alot of fish stories as well as my adventurous yard sales and my adventures going to them. I love talking about my garden. My garden is a big part of my life in the summer. I participate in memes like menu plan Monday and Thankful Thursday. I love playing on my computer making new friends through my blog and learning new things. I love saving money and using coupons and I actually enjoy being frugal. There is so much good advice in the bloggy world when it comes to saving money and using coupons too! For me the best part of blogging has been all the great blogger's whom I have met this past year. You guys are all great! Hope you will visit awhile and please leave me a comment. Happy Partying!

Thankful Thursday

2010-04-08T21:29:00.007-04:00

This month Lynn at spiritually unequal marriage is hosting thankful Thursday. It's been a wonderful week. This thankful Thursday I am thankful for many things.

1. Weight loss, I have lost 20 lbs now and I feel so much better. Even my skin looks better. I am so thankful for the will power and for the wake up call this past winter to motivate me to lose the weight.

2. For the most part, warm sunny skies and pleasant weather. Who doesn't love spring?

3. For old friends and new connections through facebook. I found an old friend from Junior high school. When she moved away,we used to write to each other for years. We now only exchange Christmas cards but, it was cool we connected on facebook and now we keep in touch more often.

4. I am thankful things are looking up for my son. He finally got a job. The same place DH works. It has been heartbreaking seeing him so depressed. He now seems so much happier.

5. My DH who indulges me, and who has also made me a better caring and giving person. I have had several people tell me this.

What are you thankful for this week?

Bluegill fishing time

2010-04-07T13:45:00.005-04:00

While Susan (that's me) is slaving away preparing for this yard sale....DH was fishing last night until dark and yes, he was enjoying it too! He caught about 30 but kept 11 nice sized ones for our supper tonight. I'm jealous! No, not really...and I wasn't preparing for my sale. I took a shower got into my comfy pj's and watched my all time favorite show American Idol. But, tomorrow you can bet I plan on getting my fishing license so I can fish also. If you don't already know by now, fishing is one of my favorite pastimes. What a better way to enjoy a day than quietly probing a lake in search of bluegills. It's easy and it's simple. It's just great! I love fishing for bluegill with DH especially when I catch more or bigger fish than him. He takes the abuse quite well. DH and I are true bluegill addicts and we don't have to travel very far to find good fishing. I am itching so bad to fish this spring. With the ice off the lakes and the water warming up, the bluegill are hungry. There is something magic about watching a slip bobber suddenly twitch and make a tight circle before plunging beneath the surface as a big bluegill inhales your tiny offering and takes off with it. Maybe I'm dreaming or wishful thinking but, this year with all the bluegill fishing I have in mind....my only problem will be finding enough freezer space to store all those tasty fillets....and isn't that a nice problem to have?

Wordless Wednesday....apricot trees in bloom

2010-04-07T10:47:00.007-04:00

These apricot trees are my neighbors. Aren't they pretty?

Clearing out the cluttter!

2010-04-06T22:04:00.012-04:00

Whew! I can tell already this week is going to go fast. However, it seems, every week goes fast for me anymore. Today was a summer like day and I am loving it! There is much yard work to be done but instead I am busy getting more of my yard sale stuff around. There is still so much sorting and pricing to be done. Since I haven't been able to get in our shed yet because of bookcases and a roll top desk in the way, I worked on my storage room. I cannot believe how much I have accumulated this past year. It is no wonder I were having some difficulty finding stuff. I am not a hoarder by any means, but it sorta looks like it at the moment. It is only going to get worse if I don't do some serious liquidation! Stuff like toothpaste ect. will expire and I don't want that to happen. I almost got that room done and will work on my bedroom next. By then DH will have the furniture out of the shed so I can work on those tubs. My neighbor and best friend will be helping me. I am so thankful for all her help because this is one sale that is way too much for one person to handle. Because of all the work yet, I have decided to move my sale on the 22, 23, and 24. I hope and pray the weather will be kind to us.

Menu Plan Monday

2010-04-05T11:54:00.007-04:00

Hope you all had a great Easter! We had my sister over for dinner. This is the first time we haven't had all the kids and that is because this year with our tiny place and all the yard sale stuff everywhere crammed in every possible space in the house, I didn't have the room for everyone. I also did a twist this year from my norm by grilling ham steaks instead of my usual spiral ham. Everything turned out perfect and it was a beautiful day. My dad stopped in for coffee in the afternoon and my brother in law and his wife surprised us by stopping by. The next 2 weeks I am going to be busy as ever getting the rest of my yard sale stuff around as I hope to have my sale the 15th, 16th, and 17th weather permitting. I know it will get here quick. This weeks menu is also quick as well as easy. Some of it isn't very diet friendly and therefor will have to watch my portions. It is just the 2 of us so I don't spend alot time in the kitchen. this weeks menu looks like this:

MONDAY

chicken corden blu

potato salad ( leftover from Easter)

steamed asparagus (leftover from Easter)

TUESDAY

(It's breakfast for dinner)

ham steak (leftover from Easter)

eggs

fried potatoes( make extra for Wednesdays dinner)

WEDNESDAY

grilled pork chops

peas

fried potatoes

THURSDAY

Out!

FRIDAY

cheese stuffed rigatoni

tossed green salad

SATURDAY

chicken and veggie stir fry with brown rice

SUNDAY

On our own today!

Be sure to visit here for more menu plans!

It's just one of those days

2010-03-31T20:29:00.005-04:00

Today was a very busy day as the weather has been so warm and nice and I was in the spring cleaning mode. The laundry was piling up and what I thought was going to be this productive day was definitely not. My first load of laundry was a nightmare as the washer decided to take a dump. Here I was with a full load of jeans and t-shirts that was soaking wet and I couldn't get the water out of the washer. I took them out wringing them out the best I could and hauled them to my best friend and neighbor who graciously let me use her washing machine and dryer. She also had me do all my laundry there so it would be done. She is such a kind woman. I tryed to work cleaning my house in between going back and forth to her house doing my laundry. Then my father showed up for coffee, thats okay because I love seeing my dad. Then my son showed up and that just about halted anymore cleaning. My DH said our washing machine was shot and if were a belt that broke he would've fixed it. So I guess we were going to have to get a new one. Ugh! I hate the thought spending the money right now but, hey, I will not go to the laundry mat! Our washing machine was a good little machine I bought it at a yard sale for $50 back in 2003, I would say we got our moneys worth out of it. So.... off we go to get a new washer and dryer and as I thought the salesman tries to sell us the more expensive high efficiency model. I don't need anything fancy i just need something that will wash our clothes. We found a nice set and it will be delivered Friday. Yep, It's just one of those days!

Offer Valid until.....

2010-03-30T18:41:00.005-04:00

I have a big binder I keep that is filled with all my clipped coupons. Every month at the end of the month I try to weed out the coupons for products I know I will never use and look for the fine print that reads "valid until" because I don't want to be embarrassed at the store or restaurant when I try to use an expired coupon. It's a reminder that there is a good reason to respond to an offer when it is first presented. In the future, the offer may no longer be valid, because time will have run out. That is why I urge those who do not have faith in Jesus to come to him and accept him as their savior and Lord. Jesus came to earth that we might have a rich and satisfying life. He died for our sins to bring us safely home to God and give us eternal life(John 3:16) When you accept Jesus as your Saviour and Lord, you will receive forgiveness for your sins-no matter how small or large; freedom from guilt; love for those around you; and hope has no limit. However you must respond quickly"for you don't know what day your Lord is coming" (Matthew 24:42). When Jesus returns and gathers his followers from all over the earth, it will be too late to decide to join him.

Menu Plan Monday

2010-03-29T15:36:00.005-04:00

What a tiring busy week I have had this past week! My neighbor and best friend helped me sort and price stuff all week long for my upcoming yard sale. Yes, It took all week from morning until evening. There is soooooooooo much stuff!! Now you are probably wondering why I have so much stuff. Well, my DH back in January did some bartering with his boss for ahem..this stuff. His boss bought an estate and the lady who died, her family didn't want to deal with all her stuff so, it all came with the house. Hubby took interest in the stuff and well that's the story. We didn't get any of the dishes priced yet or the boxes of cookbooks. I still have 2 sheds full to go through yet. It will wait until after Easter! Anyways, this weeks menu looks like this..

MONDAY

ridiculously easy crock pot roast

with potatoes and carrots ( this is my all time favorite meal)

applesauce

TUESDAY

beef and noodles ( made from Monday's leftover pot roast)

green beans

WEDNESDAY

sloppy joes on whole wheat buns

fresh cut up veggies

mixed fruit

THURSDAY

lemon pepper chicken

pea salad

brown and wild rice

FRIDAY

Easy! leftovers? (we will be attending the Easter cantata at church)

SATURDAY

Big chef Salads

EASTER SUNDAY

grilled ham steaks

potato salad

fresh steamed asparagus

pineapple upside down cake

Visit here for more menus!

Have a Blessed Easter!

Thankful Thursday

2010-03-18T16:18:00.007-04:00

It's Thankful Thursday and hosting this month is Laurie @ women taking a stand. It's a glorious day! Here in Northern Indiana we have had some beautiful spring days and I have been taking advantage of them, which is why I am a little behind on my posting today. I have been walking some most every day trying to build strength and endurance after being laid up for 2 months. It is great exercise. I have noticed the flowers are poking there little heads up out of the ground and it is so nice to be able to open a few windows during the day and smell the spring air as it fills the house after a long winter. Indeed, I have so much to be thankful for this year. I am enjoying the car that was given to DH and I from DH's bosses. We have 2 dependable vehicles now and one less worry. God is so good and I am filled with love and gratitude for my life and all the blessings that fill it. Can I say more?

Menu Plan Monday

2010-03-15T11:04:00.006-04:00

It's Monday again and time to get my menu planned. Yes, I am a little late on getting it posted as I have been trying to schedule to do my posting the night before but, this spring forward the clock had me lagging behind all day yesterday. Waking up in the dark will take some getting used to once again. However, I love the fact of the extra daylight in the evening as it gives DH and I extra time to actually do something after he gets off work like go fishing before it gets dark. My menu this week is easy and that's the way I like it!

MONDAY

goulash

applesauce

TUESDAY

DH says we are going out!

WEDNESDAY

cheese rigatoni

garlic toast

green tossed salad

THURSDAY

stir fry with chicken , lots of veggies and brown rice

FRIDAY

lemon pepper chicken breasts

green beans

mashed potatoes

SATURDAY

veggie omelets

whole wheat toast

fresh fruit

SUNDAY

leftovers

Visit here for more menu plans!

A sign of Spring?

2010-03-11T11:47:00.004-05:00

I was taking my walk this morning and look what I saw............

A nightcrawler in the middle of the road? hmmmm.......A sure sign of Spring! I love it!

Menu Plan Monday

2010-03-08T08:36:00.006-05:00

I love eating healthy! Hubby has been so supportive and that makes it a little easier. He actually told me he really needs to cut back on his eating also. But, he doesn't expect to eat brown rice and tossed salad everyday like I could do and so with that in mind.....this weeks menu is pretty much the same, easy, healthy and most of all keeping the meat and potatoes man in the family happy.

Go to orgjunkie for more menu ideas!

MONDAY

chicken corden blu

garlic potatoes

steamed peas

TUESDAY

sloppy joes

raw veggies

fruit of some kind

WEDNESDAY

veggie pizza

THURSDAY

grilled salmon (yummmm I love this!)

brown rice

tossed salad

FRIDAY

cube steak with mushrooms

mashed potatoes

steamed broccoli

SATURDAY

mac and cheese

green beans

applesauce

SUNDAY

leftovers!

Thankful Thursday

2010-03-04T14:46:00.006-05:00

The sun is shining through the windows....beautiful day! My walking speed may not be great at the moment but, I am ever so thankful to be able to walk to my friend Becky's house down the road yesterday and today, The exercise has felt wonderful and I enjoyed visiting with my best friend.

Dieting can be so hard I find it is much easier to put on than take off. I am thankful for not giving up, for that feeling of accomplishment every day, and for the healing that is taking place in my body by nourishing it with healthy food and exercise.

After driving vehicles that were just plain junk,I am thankful for having a car and truck that runs so nice and is in such nice shape and it feels sooooo......good!

With all that said....I am thankful for a faithful God who's always beside me!

This month Laurie @ women taking a stand is hosting thankful Thursday. Be sure to visit her and view more thankful Thursday participants!

A positive note

2010-03-02T19:45:00.011-05:00

It's March already and springtime is just around the corner. This is good and should cheer every ones soul. The Eastern US got alot of snow this year, here in Indiana we were lucky, we got snow but we didn't get hammered like some of our Eastern friends. Anyways, the weatherman is saying by the end of the week it could reach the 50 degree mark around here. Now, that's talking! This should melt alot of snow we have left on the ground. But, this post isn't about the weather. On a positive note, awhile back I said I had an amazing week and it's all but been amazing since then. The first of January when everything went wrong from having pinkeye to tearing a muscle in my back, I began to wonder what next? DH has worked hard all winter instead of the usual being laid off from work and we never got to go ice fishing but , that's okay. I stayed in the house everyday for 2 months while January and February just flew on by. That's okay too. We were given a whole house full of stuff lots of stuff from a repo that DH's boss bought the first of the year.It took DH several truckloads to haul it home. Our 3 sheds and 2 rooms in our house are packed full every square inch but, that's okay because I thought last years yard sale was remarkable. This years sale will be the bomb! We bought ourselves a new truck, well, used, but new to us. We paid cash and it's all paid for. DH and I were not looking that day although we knew we would have to soon in the near future. Our little mercury topaz had no door handle on the outside drivers side, the back floor board had rusted out. It had no exhaust system and it had shifting linkage issues. I heard DH's boss at work calling it a death trap. DH's boss's are giving us a 2000 Cadillac because they said DH has done such a good job for them and has been to work everyday. They said they wanted to show him their appreciation by buying this vehicle for us. That's a pretty hefty bonus!We can't thank them enough. DH and I had tears in our eyes because DH has always had to work so hard for everything he has ever owned. This car will be so nice because I will have a car to drive now. So, in spite of all the negative this winter everything has turned out positive and that is truly something to be thankful for!

Our 1991 Chevy Silverado. A little older but, better looking and better shape all round!

Menu Plan Monday

2010-02-28T20:18:00.007-05:00

My self esteem has soared 3 fold this past weekend! My hubby told me he could tell I was losing weight. Well, quite frankly I didn't believe him as I thought my DH was just being nice. To tell you the truth, I have felt better but weight loss? nawwww! My brother in law from Indianapolis stopped in yesterday and out of the blue he told me I looked like I had lost some weight. hugh? He doesn't know I am dieting neither.Well I must be doing something right and you can bet I will continue doing what I'm doing. This is great news for me. Losing excess body fat has not been an easy task for me. I am determined to lose this blubber once and for all. After I injured my back I couldn't exercise, let alone move around for 2 months! I am trying to slowly incorporate exercise in my everyday routine. Springtime needs to arrive soon so I can start walking daily outside.

Making smart healthy choices and watching my portions will be the same. My menu this week is just that while keeping costs down and using what I have on hand.

MONDAY

chili ( made with venison)

cornbread

TUESDAY

Baked lemon chicken

steamed california blend(broccoli,cauliflower, carrots)

tossed green salad

WEDNESDAY

chicken and noodles

green beans

apple sauce

THURSDAY

low fat shepherds pie

fruit of some kind and or jello

FRIDAY

chicken stir fry

brown rice

SATURDAY

mini meatloaves

mashed potatoes

steamed peas

SUNDAY

on our own today!

Go to organized junkie for more amazing menus and recipes!

Walgreens 2/28/2010

2010-02-28T17:00:00.009-05:00

I spent $5.43 with tax!

Received $8.00 RR"s back

total savings $43.95

At Walgreens today I felt I did pretty good. I stayed around the $5.00 mark which I have been desperately trying to do every week. I wished I had did the Kleenex deal, however, I may still do it yet this week. I am very pleased with the Starbucks frappachino deal as I love this stuff and will not pay full price for it. I am glad I saved my coupons for this to get it at .25 cents each. My deals from this trip went like this:

4 Starbucks frappachinos $2.29 each
used 4-100/1 MQ and 4.16 off in ad/Q
final price $1.00 for 4
1 Schick intuition razor $8.99
used 4.00/1 MQ
final price $1.99

2 Nivia lip shimmers $7.98
used BIGI MQ and in ad/Q for .99 cents each
final price $2.01 MM

2 reach floss $1.79 each
1 reach toothbrush $ 1.59 each
used 3- 1.00/1 MQs and in ad/ Q for .99 cents each
final price FREE

2 Motrin pm $2.99 each
used $1.50 off from March coupon book and 3.00/2 MQ
final price .49 cents each

2 Tylenol cold $4.99 each
used 3.00/2 MQ
final price $6.98

1 bowl fresh ( filler item) .99 cents
used in ad/Q .6o off
final price .39 cents

I also used $2.50 in RR"s

How about you? Did you find any thrifty deals at Walgreen's?

Menu Plan Monday

2010-02-22T08:55:00.008-05:00

I had an amazing week and an amazing weekend! I am dying to tell you about it! I will give you the details later. I have been prioritizing my health. Going down this healthy path hasn't been easy, but, I am feeling better already. I hope I can maintain the momentum with this healthier lifestyle. One thing is for sure, springtime is just around the corner (even though you can't tell by looking outside at the moment) and at last, the perils of the winter snow are behind us. Ahem! ( well mostly) and I am looking forward to getting in some good outdoors time once again. This is my menu this week.

MONDAY

Baked chicken

asparagus

brown rice

TUESDAY

out?

WEDNESDAY

vegetable soup

grilled cheese

applesauce

THURSDAY

Breakfast for dinner with

omelets (veggie for me)

toast (whole wheat for me)

fruit

FRIDAY

Easy salmon cakes

tossed green salad

rice pilaf with peas

SATURDAY

Oven BBQ pork chops

cornbread

coleslaw

SUNDAY

On our own!

Be sure to check out organizing junkie for more menu ideas and recipes. Bon Appetite!

Dealing with a canker sore and free toothpaste

2010-02-16T15:36:00.009-05:00

Painful shallow sores in your mouth called canker sores, have you ever had them? Let me tell you, I have had my share of them through out the years. I noticed one last night in my mouth,. I haven't had one in ages. Although canker sores are harmless, they can be painful. No one knows what causes canker sores but, some causative factors may include fatigue, emotional stress and certain foods, even biting the inside of the cheek or tongue or chewing a sharp piece of food like for example, potato chips ,may trigger a canker sore. Drugs like anti inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen can also have an effect. Whoops! I have been taking alot of this in the past month and a half! Your toothpaste may have an effect as well from the sodium Laural sulfate in the product. I learned avoiding hot, spicy or acidic foods and beverages may help. Does this include sprite zero?Although, not brushing my teeth is not an option, switching to an SLS free toothpaste may help. I found this site that has a toothpaste that has just this, and a trial size you can send for free. Yay! Verve ultra toothpaste at https://verveultra.com/ is just the toothpaste for canker sore prevention. It comes in soothing fresh mint. It has fluoride for cavity protection, whitening with no bleaches or peroxides and vitamin enriched. Verve ultra is priced at $4.89 at tube. A free trial size will be nice and can't wait to try it. If you have canker sores you may want to check Verve ultra out. Maybe, you will just want to give it a try even if you don't have cancer sores.

Menu Plan Monday

2010-02-15T10:15:00.006-05:00

Do you ever sit down to plan a weeks meals for your family and you find yourself staring at your notepad without a single idea in your head? For the most part that is me! Perhaps it's because DH wants and loves meat and potatoes, nasty, greasy foods are all the better, while I prefer healthy whole foods. Not good! But, in reality meal planning will save yourself time, effort and money, and by working out in advance what to cook and shop ahead so you have everything you need. You will also be less likely to resort to using processed fast foods because there"s nothing in the house. Healthy meal planning doesn't have to be hard and it's worth getting in the habit. My menu this week is pretty much the same, simple and nothing fancy while still trying to please my not so healthy DH and the healthy conscious me and still being able to use food I have on hand.

MONDAY

Beef and noodles (using leftover beef from last weeks beef roast)

steamed broccoli

pears

TUESDAY

Baked chicken ( boneless chicken breasts dipped in egg, rolled in crushed durkee onion)

brown rice

harvard beets

WEDNESDAY

going out!

THURSDAY

cube steak with mushrooms

mashed potatoes

green beans

FRIDAY

chicken stir fry with brown rice

SATURDAY

spaghetti and meatballs

tossed green salad

SUNDAY

ON our own!

There is more great menu plans at Organizing Junkie

My Walgreens and CVS scenerio 2/14

2010-02-14T14:52:00.012-05:00

Happy Valentines Day!

Hubby treated me to a wonderful breakfast out this morning for valentines day. Then I went to Walgreen's and CVS. It feels really good to be out and about even if it's for a bit. The sun is shining brightly here in northern Indiana and I didn't seem to mind the cold. I did 5 transactions at CVS. I spent a total of $12.33. I made a mistake on transaction #2 and forgot to give my $3.00 reach CVS Q thus making my oop more than I anticipated Pooh! I also made a mistake with the crest pro health toothpaste by picking up the wrong one and not only paying more for it but also not getting ecb's for it. Live and Learn! I believe we've all made mistakes like that before.

I got all this for $12.33

Transaction #1

1 Aussie hairspray $2.99

1 Colgate total toothpaste $2.99

2 sobe lifewater BOGO $1.59 each

I used - $1.00 Aussie product

- $1.00 Colgate total

-BOGO sobe water

-2 ecb's

total oop with tax $1.51 saved $11.08

ECB's earned 4

#2 transaction

2 sense and spray kits $6.00 each

3 reach floss $1.99 each

I used - (2) $3.00 sense and spray

- (3) $1.00 reach

- $1.50 ecb

- $4.00 ecb

total oop with tax $4.73 saved $22.48

ECB's earned 4

#3 transaction

1 cover girl foundation $6.00

1 covergirl pressed powder $6.00

I used - (1) BOGO cover girl

- $1.00 cover girl

- $4.00 ecb's

total oop with tax $1.84 saved $12.98

ECB's earned 5

# 4 transaction

1 crest pro health $3.89

1 Gillette disposable razors $5.29

I used- .75 crest pro health

- $2.00 Gillette razors

- $5.00 ecb's

total oop after tax $2.61 saved $11.45

ECB's earned 2

#5 transaction

2 honey nut cheerios $1.00 each

1 crest pro health $3.50

2 sobe life water BOGO $1.59 each

1 cottonelle 12 pack $5.49

2 CVS tissues .99 each

I used - (2) $1.00 cheerios

-.75 pro health

- BOGO lifewater

- $1.00 CVS Q for tissues

-$7.00 ecb's

total oop after tax $2.04 saved $24.32

ECB's earned $ 3.50

All and all I did pretty well! For my Walgreens scenerio scroll down......

I got all this at Walgreens for a total of $ 7.83. Do you see the Gopher pickup and reaching tool? This is going to help me so much right now when I get the dropsy's which happens to be most of the time lately. DH can't be with me 24/7. I lost alot of RR's but they were going to expire anyways.

Transaction

1 reaching tool $9.99

2 Quaker oatmeal $ 1.50 each

1 Walgreen's wipes for glasses $ 3.79

2 crest pro health rinse 2/$7.00

1 20 oz 7 up $1.49

I used -$1.00 Quaker oatmeal

-(2) $2.00 pro health rinse

-$14.00 RR's

total oop after tax $7.83 saved $23.58

Got back $2.50 RR's

Not bad at all! Thus making a grand total of $ 20.16 for Walgreens and CVS. It's a little more than I anticipated but hey I will take it!