Made this for dinner tonight, and it was YUMMY! he only thing different was I added 2 tsp of garlic in the sauce.
Easy Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo recipe at Kraftfoods.com
Monday, December 21, 2009
Faith and beliefs
I have to say that I think Christmas is a magical time. I always have. It does get harder as you get older and have lost loved ones. You go about alternating between happiness and sorrow. Happiness that you are here, and hopefully healthy, and you can spend the beautiful blessing that is Christmas with the ones you love. Sorrow because so many that you love may no longer be here and the traditions shared gone.
Our church did a nativity play last night for area churches who celebrate Christmas. I enjoyed every aspect of it. The boys were in it, and I got to be able to see the whole thing from the start. I must admit that I have never really reflected too much on the birth of Jesus, but seeing the whole story play out in front you is magnificent and awe inspiring! Maybe also because I am a mother myself, but I was brought to tears when Mary gave birth to Jesus. Angels carried a baby out (no one could see) and sang Silent Night as the head angel delivered the baby to the arms of Mary. What a precious and fragile thing is life!
I was very proud of my religion, and proud too of my parish stepping forward and sharing the gift of Christ's birth. It brought a joyous feeling to me to know that a higher power is above looking down on us and watching. All the ones we've loved and lost, though no longer here on a physical element, are still within each of us. Watching, guiding, loving.
So, as this holiest of seasons starts, never forget, it started with a child, and a parents love. Isn't that what each of us bring to this world? Life everlasting! AMEN!
Our church did a nativity play last night for area churches who celebrate Christmas. I enjoyed every aspect of it. The boys were in it, and I got to be able to see the whole thing from the start. I must admit that I have never really reflected too much on the birth of Jesus, but seeing the whole story play out in front you is magnificent and awe inspiring! Maybe also because I am a mother myself, but I was brought to tears when Mary gave birth to Jesus. Angels carried a baby out (no one could see) and sang Silent Night as the head angel delivered the baby to the arms of Mary. What a precious and fragile thing is life!
I was very proud of my religion, and proud too of my parish stepping forward and sharing the gift of Christ's birth. It brought a joyous feeling to me to know that a higher power is above looking down on us and watching. All the ones we've loved and lost, though no longer here on a physical element, are still within each of us. Watching, guiding, loving.
So, as this holiest of seasons starts, never forget, it started with a child, and a parents love. Isn't that what each of us bring to this world? Life everlasting! AMEN!
Saturday, December 19, 2009
Monday, December 14, 2009
I carried his mother
We were a Friendly's for dnner tonight when Amelia decided to serenade the restaurant. She was trying to sing the donkey verse from Friendly Beasts: "I carried his mother uphill and down..." Instead it came out I carried his mother upstairs. Everyone in the restaurant was rolling with laughter!
Sunday, December 13, 2009
A season of cooking and kindness
So, it has been awhile since I last posted anything of interest. I guess. I am going to be making pierogies this week. Always makes me think of Gram. I miss her. The time that I learned how to cook them Toby was little and I spent the whole day at Aunt Vicki's. Gram made noodles from the left over dough and she made mushroom soup. I don't know how to make her mushroom soup - I never learned. There are so many things I never learned from her. I didn't think that she would be gone so soon. I guess we should all know better.
Sunday December 20th, the boys are going to be in a live nativity play at St. Bridget's in West Rutland. Noah has two parts and Toby is singing a part in a song. I can not wait to see it. It is going to be so good. I love watching the rehearsals and seeing them grow into their part/parts.
I have a list of Christmas cookies that I want to make too. I am so excited to start doing those. I know Toby will help, but not Noah. Although he tells me he wants to learn how to cook - when he is home his games are top priority over cooking anything. O, to be a kid again, but then again, I take that back - I wouldn't want to be a kid again for anything - especially these days. Threats and playground beatings aside - we have come out stronger for it.
I will post some of the cookie recipes shortly.
Sunday December 20th, the boys are going to be in a live nativity play at St. Bridget's in West Rutland. Noah has two parts and Toby is singing a part in a song. I can not wait to see it. It is going to be so good. I love watching the rehearsals and seeing them grow into their part/parts.
I have a list of Christmas cookies that I want to make too. I am so excited to start doing those. I know Toby will help, but not Noah. Although he tells me he wants to learn how to cook - when he is home his games are top priority over cooking anything. O, to be a kid again, but then again, I take that back - I wouldn't want to be a kid again for anything - especially these days. Threats and playground beatings aside - we have come out stronger for it.
I will post some of the cookie recipes shortly.
Thursday, December 10, 2009
The Cheesecake Factory Pasta Da Vinci | Chef Pablo's Restaurant Recipes
Trying this for dinner tonight. Love my Cheesecake Factory!
The Cheesecake Factory Pasta Da Vinci Chef Pablo's Restaurant Recipes
The Cheesecake Factory Pasta Da Vinci Chef Pablo's Restaurant Recipes
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Garlic-Roasted Chicken and Potatoes Recipe | Taste of Home Recipes
Sandra made this for us after I had Amelia and it was so yummy! Don't be afraid by all that garlic - it is very flavorful. Her recipe calls for tarragon on the chicken, but I don't like that so sometimes I put Italian seasoning on it, or today I put sage and thyme.
Garlic-Roasted Chicken and Potatoes Recipe Taste of Home Recipes
Garlic-Roasted Chicken and Potatoes Recipe Taste of Home Recipes
Sunday, November 15, 2009
a comment about the post below......
I have made this recipe many times, and there is NEVER any left over. I have been asked for the recipe also. It is delicious and super easy to make.
A few side notes, I make it with cashews instead of almonds, and I can hardly ever find Oriental Ramen noodles - this is Rutland, Vt after all! I make it with roasted chicken ramen and it is still delicious.
A few side notes, I make it with cashews instead of almonds, and I can hardly ever find Oriental Ramen noodles - this is Rutland, Vt after all! I make it with roasted chicken ramen and it is still delicious.
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Recipe - Honey Sesame Chicken - Nine Dragons
Recipe - Honey Sesame Chicken - Nine Dragons: "10 to 12 ounces chicken breasts, cut into cubes
Marinade:
1 tsp chicken base (not bouillon; base is a pastelike mixture available in gourmet or larger supermarkets)
Dash of white pepper
Salt to taste
Sugar to taste
½ tsp cooking wine
½ tsp sesame oil
Garnishes:
Toasted white sesame seeds
Chopped green onions
Batter:
¾ cup all-purpose flour
¼ cup cornstarch
1 heaping tsp baking powder
½ of a beaten egg
2 tbsp oil
2/3 cup water
Pinch of salt
Honey Sauce:
1/8 cup, plus 1 tbsp honey
¼ cup sugar
1/8 cup ketchup
1 tbsp white vinegar
Method:
1. Combine marinade ingredients and let cubed chicken soak in liquid for 30 minutes.
2. Combine batter ingredients. Set aside.
3. Combine sauce ingredients. Set aside.
4. Heat cooking oil for frying, about 320º F. Using tongs, dip marinated chicken into batter and deep fry.
5. Heat honey sauce in a large wok. Turn off heat. Add chicken pieces and toss to coat. Place chicken in green onions and sesame seeds."
Marinade:
1 tsp chicken base (not bouillon; base is a pastelike mixture available in gourmet or larger supermarkets)
Dash of white pepper
Salt to taste
Sugar to taste
½ tsp cooking wine
½ tsp sesame oil
Garnishes:
Toasted white sesame seeds
Chopped green onions
Batter:
¾ cup all-purpose flour
¼ cup cornstarch
1 heaping tsp baking powder
½ of a beaten egg
2 tbsp oil
2/3 cup water
Pinch of salt
Honey Sauce:
1/8 cup, plus 1 tbsp honey
¼ cup sugar
1/8 cup ketchup
1 tbsp white vinegar
Method:
1. Combine marinade ingredients and let cubed chicken soak in liquid for 30 minutes.
2. Combine batter ingredients. Set aside.
3. Combine sauce ingredients. Set aside.
4. Heat cooking oil for frying, about 320º F. Using tongs, dip marinated chicken into batter and deep fry.
5. Heat honey sauce in a large wok. Turn off heat. Add chicken pieces and toss to coat. Place chicken in green onions and sesame seeds."
Sunday, November 1, 2009
The Monster Mash
So,this past week was a busy one for me, and thankfully it is over- although, I can't say that this week is much better.
The parade last night was wet, but fun. It was an honor to march with the Rutland Town Band. Those kids are so talented that it is awe inspiring to hear them play. Not only that, but to hear the people shout as they walk by -I had goose bumps!
Todd heads out again this week. I think this is a hard one for him to leave because he has been so sick this past week. He isn't fully 100% and the thoughts of flying across country bother him. I hope he has a safe trip.
The parade last night was wet, but fun. It was an honor to march with the Rutland Town Band. Those kids are so talented that it is awe inspiring to hear them play. Not only that, but to hear the people shout as they walk by -I had goose bumps!
Todd heads out again this week. I think this is a hard one for him to leave because he has been so sick this past week. He isn't fully 100% and the thoughts of flying across country bother him. I hope he has a safe trip.
Monday, October 26, 2009
storyteller cafe's corn chowder
can't say anything else, but yummy!!!!
2 ounces diced bacon
(part for garnish)
1 teaspoon chopped garlic
1 tablespoon diced onion
10 ounces roasted corn kernels
8 ounces chicken stock
4 tablespoons butter
4 tablespoons flour
2 ounces heavy cream
6 ounces pulled
cooked chicken meat
4 ounces diced Yukon
gold potatoes
1 teaspoon chopped cilantro leaves (garnish)
Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
Sauté 1⁄2 of the diced bacon. When it is done, drain the fat, then add the garlic, onion and sauté until transparent, but not brown. Add the roasted corn and chicken stock.
Bring the soup to a low boil. In a separate sauté pan, prepare a roux combining equal parts of melted butter and flour. First, melt 4 tablespoons butter in the hot pan, then add 4 tablespoons flour using a wire whip until the mixture is smooth. Let roux cook until the moisture is cooked out. Allow roux to cool on stovetop.
Meanwhile, let the soup boil on low heat for 1⁄2 hour. Then add the cooled roux into the soup use a wire whip to incorporate the roux into the soup. After the roux is completely incorporated, constantly stir soup to keep from burning or roux from sticking to bottom of pan.
Add the cream, pulled chicken meat and diced potato. Let simmer for 1⁄2 hour.
Meanwhile, cook the remaining bacon until crisp. Drain grease and chop into small pieces. Place in separate container.
Take cilantro bunches and wash. Dry cilantro. Chop cilantro with no stems (very small pieces.) Place in separate container. As soup is done simmering, add kosher salt and black pepper to taste.
Place finished soup in hot soup bowls. Top with garnish of bacon and cilantro right in the center of bowl."
2 ounces diced bacon
(part for garnish)
1 teaspoon chopped garlic
1 tablespoon diced onion
10 ounces roasted corn kernels
8 ounces chicken stock
4 tablespoons butter
4 tablespoons flour
2 ounces heavy cream
6 ounces pulled
cooked chicken meat
4 ounces diced Yukon
gold potatoes
1 teaspoon chopped cilantro leaves (garnish)
Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
Sauté 1⁄2 of the diced bacon. When it is done, drain the fat, then add the garlic, onion and sauté until transparent, but not brown. Add the roasted corn and chicken stock.
Bring the soup to a low boil. In a separate sauté pan, prepare a roux combining equal parts of melted butter and flour. First, melt 4 tablespoons butter in the hot pan, then add 4 tablespoons flour using a wire whip until the mixture is smooth. Let roux cook until the moisture is cooked out. Allow roux to cool on stovetop.
Meanwhile, let the soup boil on low heat for 1⁄2 hour. Then add the cooled roux into the soup use a wire whip to incorporate the roux into the soup. After the roux is completely incorporated, constantly stir soup to keep from burning or roux from sticking to bottom of pan.
Add the cream, pulled chicken meat and diced potato. Let simmer for 1⁄2 hour.
Meanwhile, cook the remaining bacon until crisp. Drain grease and chop into small pieces. Place in separate container.
Take cilantro bunches and wash. Dry cilantro. Chop cilantro with no stems (very small pieces.) Place in separate container. As soup is done simmering, add kosher salt and black pepper to taste.
Place finished soup in hot soup bowls. Top with garnish of bacon and cilantro right in the center of bowl."
Friday, October 23, 2009
beef and broccoli
we had this for dinner tonight. quick and yummy!
Recipe Detail: "Beef & Broccoli
From: Campbell's Kitchen
Prep: 10 minutes
Cook: 20 minutes
Serves: 4
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 pound boneless beef sirloin steak or beef top round steak, 3/4-inch thick, cut into thin strips
1 can (10 3/4 ounces) Campbell's® Condensed Tomato Soup
3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon vinegar
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper
3 cups fresh or frozen broccoli flowerets
4 cups hot cooked rice
Directions:
Heat the oil in a 10-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef and stir-fry until well browned.
Stir the soup, soy sauce, vinegar, garlic powder and pepper in the skillet and heat to a boil. Stir in the broccoli and cook until it's tender-crisp. Serve the beef mixture over the rice.
Tip: To make slicing easier, freeze the beef for 1 hour.
Serving Suggestion: Serve with glazed baby carrots: steam carrots with a touch of butter, brown sugar and cinnamon. For dessert serve chocolate ice cream."
Recipe Detail: "Beef & Broccoli
From: Campbell's Kitchen
Prep: 10 minutes
Cook: 20 minutes
Serves: 4
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 pound boneless beef sirloin steak or beef top round steak, 3/4-inch thick, cut into thin strips
1 can (10 3/4 ounces) Campbell's® Condensed Tomato Soup
3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon vinegar
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper
3 cups fresh or frozen broccoli flowerets
4 cups hot cooked rice
Directions:
Heat the oil in a 10-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef and stir-fry until well browned.
Stir the soup, soy sauce, vinegar, garlic powder and pepper in the skillet and heat to a boil. Stir in the broccoli and cook until it's tender-crisp. Serve the beef mixture over the rice.
Tip: To make slicing easier, freeze the beef for 1 hour.
Serving Suggestion: Serve with glazed baby carrots: steam carrots with a touch of butter, brown sugar and cinnamon. For dessert serve chocolate ice cream."
Monday, October 19, 2009
i could walk 500 miles.......
actually, i walked three, but a mile and a half of it included carrying my little girl up the hill in west rutland to get back to the church.
we had the kosta walk for hunger yesterday after mass. noah is required to walk it, and toby could if he wanted to. amelia was going to stay with todd - that was the plan......BUT, mimi decided she was NOT going to stay with daddy.
we left church, and toby made it to the west rutland high school before he called todd. on the phone he was telling todd, "i could do it when i was a kid, but i can't do it now!" amelia hates her stroller, but she was doing good so i kept walking when todd picked toby up by the west rutland library. we turned by the cash market to start walking back to church and got to the town hall when amelia decided that she had enough.
called todd because the plan was to call if any of the kids needed a lift. where was he? on his way to the mobil station in center rutland to get toby a bagel!!!! i told him not to bother because by the time he got back i would nearly be back at the church. i was by the legion when he called, and i hung up on him. i was nearly done - for him to take her then would not have been worth it.
i carried her the rest of the way, and i couldn't breathe anymore when i got to the top of the hill. i felt like i was having an asthma attack! it was very scary. i know i am not in the best shape, but usually doing hills doesn't hit me like it did then.
needless to say, i spent most of the day yesterday not speaking to him. all is good today though. just a bit sore. no other side effects.
so, although i COULD walk 500 miles, i will stick with the three that i completed and call it a day!
we had the kosta walk for hunger yesterday after mass. noah is required to walk it, and toby could if he wanted to. amelia was going to stay with todd - that was the plan......BUT, mimi decided she was NOT going to stay with daddy.
we left church, and toby made it to the west rutland high school before he called todd. on the phone he was telling todd, "i could do it when i was a kid, but i can't do it now!" amelia hates her stroller, but she was doing good so i kept walking when todd picked toby up by the west rutland library. we turned by the cash market to start walking back to church and got to the town hall when amelia decided that she had enough.
called todd because the plan was to call if any of the kids needed a lift. where was he? on his way to the mobil station in center rutland to get toby a bagel!!!! i told him not to bother because by the time he got back i would nearly be back at the church. i was by the legion when he called, and i hung up on him. i was nearly done - for him to take her then would not have been worth it.
i carried her the rest of the way, and i couldn't breathe anymore when i got to the top of the hill. i felt like i was having an asthma attack! it was very scary. i know i am not in the best shape, but usually doing hills doesn't hit me like it did then.
needless to say, i spent most of the day yesterday not speaking to him. all is good today though. just a bit sore. no other side effects.
so, although i COULD walk 500 miles, i will stick with the three that i completed and call it a day!
Creamy Slow-cooker Chicken Recipe - MyRecipes.com
Creamy Slow-cooker Chicken Recipe - MyRecipes.com: "Prep: 10 min.; Cook: 4 hr., 15 min.
Pair this versatile low-fat recipe with Roasted Vegetables and Rice, or use in other innovative ways. Shred the cooked chicken, and toss with hot cooked pasta. Create a casserole or jump-start a filling for easy enchiladas or a fast pot pie. Or splurge and spoon this dish over freshly baked biscuits.
Yield
Makes 6 servings
Ingredients
6 skinned and boned chicken breasts (about 2 1/2 lb.)
2 teaspoons seasoned salt
2 tablespoons canola oil
1 (10 3/4-oz.) can reduced-fat cream of mushroom soup
1 (8-oz.) package 1/3-less-fat cream cheese
1/2 cup dry white wine
1 (0.7-oz.) envelope Italian dressing mix
1 (8-oz.) package sliced fresh mushrooms
Preparation
1. Sprinkle chicken with seasoned salt. Cook chicken, in batches, in hot oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat 2 to 3 minutes on each side or just until browned. Transfer chicken to a 5-qt. slow cooker, reserving drippings in skillet.
2. Add soup, cream cheese, white wine, and Italian dressing mix to hot drippings in skillet. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, 2 to 3 minutes or until cheese is melted and mixture is smooth.
3. Arrange mushrooms over chicken in slow cooker. Spoon soup mixture over mushrooms. Cover and cook on LOW 4 hours. Stir well before serving.
Note: For testing purposes only we used Good Seasons Italian All Natural Salad Dressing and Recipe Mix.
To make ahead: Prepare recipe as directed. Transfer to a 13- x 9-inch baking dish, and let cool completely. Freeze up to one month. Thaw in refrigerator 8 to 24 hours. To reheat, cover tightly with aluminum foil, and bake at 325° for 45 minutes. Uncover and bake 15 minutes or until thoroughly heated"
Pair this versatile low-fat recipe with Roasted Vegetables and Rice, or use in other innovative ways. Shred the cooked chicken, and toss with hot cooked pasta. Create a casserole or jump-start a filling for easy enchiladas or a fast pot pie. Or splurge and spoon this dish over freshly baked biscuits.
Yield
Makes 6 servings
Ingredients
6 skinned and boned chicken breasts (about 2 1/2 lb.)
2 teaspoons seasoned salt
2 tablespoons canola oil
1 (10 3/4-oz.) can reduced-fat cream of mushroom soup
1 (8-oz.) package 1/3-less-fat cream cheese
1/2 cup dry white wine
1 (0.7-oz.) envelope Italian dressing mix
1 (8-oz.) package sliced fresh mushrooms
Preparation
1. Sprinkle chicken with seasoned salt. Cook chicken, in batches, in hot oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat 2 to 3 minutes on each side or just until browned. Transfer chicken to a 5-qt. slow cooker, reserving drippings in skillet.
2. Add soup, cream cheese, white wine, and Italian dressing mix to hot drippings in skillet. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, 2 to 3 minutes or until cheese is melted and mixture is smooth.
3. Arrange mushrooms over chicken in slow cooker. Spoon soup mixture over mushrooms. Cover and cook on LOW 4 hours. Stir well before serving.
Note: For testing purposes only we used Good Seasons Italian All Natural Salad Dressing and Recipe Mix.
To make ahead: Prepare recipe as directed. Transfer to a 13- x 9-inch baking dish, and let cool completely. Freeze up to one month. Thaw in refrigerator 8 to 24 hours. To reheat, cover tightly with aluminum foil, and bake at 325° for 45 minutes. Uncover and bake 15 minutes or until thoroughly heated"
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
rain, rain go away
today is crappy like my mood. mimi had a bad case of croupe last night. i hardly slept at all, and now, i am playing referee to two boys who really should know better. i have had enough!
toby was supposed to have soccer tonight, but the rain didn't help. not sure if they had it since the hour he was supposed to go it didn't rain at all, but i wasn't going to go and have amelia out in the rain and damp or the boys because i know they would get sick.
i am fighting another migraine - o, joy!
toby was supposed to have soccer tonight, but the rain didn't help. not sure if they had it since the hour he was supposed to go it didn't rain at all, but i wasn't going to go and have amelia out in the rain and damp or the boys because i know they would get sick.
i am fighting another migraine - o, joy!
Sunday, October 4, 2009
happy anniversary to us!
even though he is in rosemont, illinois it was still a beautiful day. until, of course, the boys decided to play tackle football. yes, that can never turn out good! Noah pulled a muscle up near his heart, AND, since he is allergic to grass you can guess that it didn't turn out well.
he is convinced he is going to die. everytime he breathes in a big breath he says his heart hurts - really it is the pulled muscle. because, let's not forget, when you manhandle your little brother, you are not always going to come out of it unscathed! and, with rolling around in the grass and toby throwing grass on top of him, his throat got tight and he threw up.
but, let's not forget that last night he was going to die because he swallowed some of the shampoo.
i don't know how to help him with these fears - it may be time for me to call on doug again and just let noah go in and speak with him. not become a fixture on the couch which we can all see happening.
he has decided that his favorite new game is wii fit. now, for months before this it was baseball 2k9. he could not play another game but that one. heaven forbid toby want to play another game - it did not go well. so, now he is tracking ALL of his moves. everything. it is even written in a notebook because he wants to be healthy.
I can understand healthy, but above and beyond.......o, that is my boy, and i love him for every flaw and compulsive tendancy that he has. because for better or worse, he is mine. he is here - which is something i might not have had when he was born. so, as frustrated as i get with him, i love him!
he is convinced he is going to die. everytime he breathes in a big breath he says his heart hurts - really it is the pulled muscle. because, let's not forget, when you manhandle your little brother, you are not always going to come out of it unscathed! and, with rolling around in the grass and toby throwing grass on top of him, his throat got tight and he threw up.
but, let's not forget that last night he was going to die because he swallowed some of the shampoo.
i don't know how to help him with these fears - it may be time for me to call on doug again and just let noah go in and speak with him. not become a fixture on the couch which we can all see happening.
he has decided that his favorite new game is wii fit. now, for months before this it was baseball 2k9. he could not play another game but that one. heaven forbid toby want to play another game - it did not go well. so, now he is tracking ALL of his moves. everything. it is even written in a notebook because he wants to be healthy.
I can understand healthy, but above and beyond.......o, that is my boy, and i love him for every flaw and compulsive tendancy that he has. because for better or worse, he is mine. he is here - which is something i might not have had when he was born. so, as frustrated as i get with him, i love him!
Saturday, October 3, 2009
another rainy day
i have to say that i am sick of this migraine! it is time for it to go away. i am proud of noah though - he really stepped up for me today by helping out with amelia and toby. i was so sick this morning that i felt like i would throw up. he played with amelia so that i could lay down for a bit. it helped me to start feeling better.
monday cannot come fast enough after this week!
monday cannot come fast enough after this week!
Thursday, October 1, 2009
october???
where has this year gone to?
day two of no sugar, and my head is SPLITTING! but, i know it is all worth it. i am especially proud of myself for not giving in to my stress with crazy eating.
it would be so easy to book tickets and get on that big airplane to chicago, but, i will not. i will stay here and keep the kids in school, and hold out hope that the weekend will be ok. i will just daydream that i am not here - do you think that will work???
day two of no sugar, and my head is SPLITTING! but, i know it is all worth it. i am especially proud of myself for not giving in to my stress with crazy eating.
it would be so easy to book tickets and get on that big airplane to chicago, but, i will not. i will stay here and keep the kids in school, and hold out hope that the weekend will be ok. i will just daydream that i am not here - do you think that will work???
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
here i am again on my own
like a drifter going down the lonely road.......yeah - that is about how i feel. like i am drifting - not sure where i am headed, but hopefully i get there safely.
i am chugging along - one minute at a time with the eating. but, i know that i can do this.
on the other hand, i am trying to settle my son with his anxiety. it is awful tonight. last night he watched police chases with my brother, and tonight, i am paying for it! he told me before his tub that he saw a car turn into our neighbors driveway and he saw an outline of a person on the road. then, ten minutes later he said he saw a bright light by my other neighbors house. he was nearly hyperventilating about the whole thing. i know i don't handle it like i should because i get mad, and it doesn't help anyone, but it seems like it is always the same thing. i feel like my trying to help him through it doesn't help because then he questions me over and over again. three minutes later he will ask me if i am sure that what i said is true.
i also know he is no where near as bad as he was last year, but it is still there inside of him. i also know with todd not around that it is worse because he feels like if someone were to come i would not be able to protect the family. i am not sure how to help him......
i want to go and eat a whole bag of chocolate, and some macaroni and cheese. so, i will sit here and keep typing because that can keep my mind busy from thinking about the bad things i want to have and know that i shouldn't.
maybe it is time for myself to go to bed. if i go to sleep now, tomorrow will be here faster and that is one day closer to todd coming home.
i am chugging along - one minute at a time with the eating. but, i know that i can do this.
on the other hand, i am trying to settle my son with his anxiety. it is awful tonight. last night he watched police chases with my brother, and tonight, i am paying for it! he told me before his tub that he saw a car turn into our neighbors driveway and he saw an outline of a person on the road. then, ten minutes later he said he saw a bright light by my other neighbors house. he was nearly hyperventilating about the whole thing. i know i don't handle it like i should because i get mad, and it doesn't help anyone, but it seems like it is always the same thing. i feel like my trying to help him through it doesn't help because then he questions me over and over again. three minutes later he will ask me if i am sure that what i said is true.
i also know he is no where near as bad as he was last year, but it is still there inside of him. i also know with todd not around that it is worse because he feels like if someone were to come i would not be able to protect the family. i am not sure how to help him......
i want to go and eat a whole bag of chocolate, and some macaroni and cheese. so, i will sit here and keep typing because that can keep my mind busy from thinking about the bad things i want to have and know that i shouldn't.
maybe it is time for myself to go to bed. if i go to sleep now, tomorrow will be here faster and that is one day closer to todd coming home.
Monday, September 28, 2009
Monday, Monday!
Ahhhh - another weekend done and over with. we went apple picking and spent the day in burlington. it was nice to be able to spend the weekend with todd before he leaves - AGAIN!
I am trying to get back on track wihh the diet thing - today is another start. I am focused, and feeling good about it, so hopefully.
we are going to be going to germany in may for a show over there. what a learning experience for the kids! I am excited about it - just hoping by then I will be A LOT slimmer. although, i have come to realize that it isn't how fast you lose - it is always going to be a struggle for me - it is not puting a time limit on it. i can not tell you how many times that i have put a time on it - saying, "I am going to be this weight by such and such." never works! it has only taken me my whole life to figure this out! yeah, i am a bright bulb, huh? just kidding!
i had tomato and mozzarella for breakfast, and lunch will be a steak and veggies. dinner is chicken with dijon mustard cream sauce. a snack later on will be banana and peanut butter. this is the plan - here's hoping it sticks!
happy monday to all!
I am trying to get back on track wihh the diet thing - today is another start. I am focused, and feeling good about it, so hopefully.
we are going to be going to germany in may for a show over there. what a learning experience for the kids! I am excited about it - just hoping by then I will be A LOT slimmer. although, i have come to realize that it isn't how fast you lose - it is always going to be a struggle for me - it is not puting a time limit on it. i can not tell you how many times that i have put a time on it - saying, "I am going to be this weight by such and such." never works! it has only taken me my whole life to figure this out! yeah, i am a bright bulb, huh? just kidding!
i had tomato and mozzarella for breakfast, and lunch will be a steak and veggies. dinner is chicken with dijon mustard cream sauce. a snack later on will be banana and peanut butter. this is the plan - here's hoping it sticks!
happy monday to all!
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
and so it goes
todd came home yesterday - it is nice to have him here. we have been discussing my going to rosemont with him next week, but i honestly do not want to go. i want to take the kids to orlando in march, and that would give us more days down there that we can spend. i think he is in agreement with me finally! (i hope)
slow news here at the jakuowski casa - believe me, i am not complaining!
slow news here at the jakuowski casa - believe me, i am not complaining!
Monday, September 21, 2009
juli's homemade mac and cheese
use small a 16oz box of small shell pasta - that is the best to use - the others seem to get dry. cook it in boiling water for the time given.
meanwhile, mix 2 cans of campbell's cheddar cheese soup, 1 1/2 tsp garlic powder, milk, and cheddar cheese together in a mixing bowl.
drain the pasta, and mix with the soup mixture. bake at 350* for about 35 minutes or until brown.
if you want, you can mix stuffing with butter and put that over the top before you bake.
enjoy!
meanwhile, mix 2 cans of campbell's cheddar cheese soup, 1 1/2 tsp garlic powder, milk, and cheddar cheese together in a mixing bowl.
drain the pasta, and mix with the soup mixture. bake at 350* for about 35 minutes or until brown.
if you want, you can mix stuffing with butter and put that over the top before you bake.
enjoy!
the dawn of a new week.....
Happy Monday to all! hope everyone had a good weekend. i took the kids to church yesterday. and i was exhausted at the end. the boys never stop touching amelia, and amelia never stops talking. of course, the bishop was there.....it is so much easier to have todd with me. i handled it grandly though!
the boys stayed at mom and dads for the day - toby suckered dad into buying him camouflage ski pants and a camo hat too at dick's. i must say, he is pretty proud of himself! Funny.
I am catching up on laundry and getting the house clean because tomorrow is tuesday, and todd comes home!!! we are very excited to see him. he is home for a whole week this time!
tomorrow toby gets his school pictures taken - since todd is not here and toby wants to wear a tie, i asked larry sims this morning if he would possibly so it for me. he said he would be more than happy to.
so here is my big sunday into monday news....i stayed on track with the diet. so far so good today too. i went to eat at friendly's last night with rei, chris, and irene, and i got a salad and steak tips. i did have amelia's monster mash sundae, but since i only had a salad for lunch, i am sure that it evened itself out in the long run.
the hard part is that i am making homemade mac and cheese for amelia since she doesn't seem to want to eat anything else. i am not sure how to stay away from that, but i did cut up cantaloupe and watermelon so all is good. i am also planning on having chicken and broccoli tonight for dinner. exciting stuff, i know. if i get a chance i will put my mac and cheese recipe on here. i came up with it on my own - it is yummy!
the boys stayed at mom and dads for the day - toby suckered dad into buying him camouflage ski pants and a camo hat too at dick's. i must say, he is pretty proud of himself! Funny.
I am catching up on laundry and getting the house clean because tomorrow is tuesday, and todd comes home!!! we are very excited to see him. he is home for a whole week this time!
tomorrow toby gets his school pictures taken - since todd is not here and toby wants to wear a tie, i asked larry sims this morning if he would possibly so it for me. he said he would be more than happy to.
so here is my big sunday into monday news....i stayed on track with the diet. so far so good today too. i went to eat at friendly's last night with rei, chris, and irene, and i got a salad and steak tips. i did have amelia's monster mash sundae, but since i only had a salad for lunch, i am sure that it evened itself out in the long run.
the hard part is that i am making homemade mac and cheese for amelia since she doesn't seem to want to eat anything else. i am not sure how to stay away from that, but i did cut up cantaloupe and watermelon so all is good. i am also planning on having chicken and broccoli tonight for dinner. exciting stuff, i know. if i get a chance i will put my mac and cheese recipe on here. i came up with it on my own - it is yummy!
Saturday, September 19, 2009
here we go again
so, we followed gail to her parents house yesterday after school. the kids enjoyed it a lot. they got a kick out of the apartment and her parents. i was sorry that we couldn't stay longer than we did. it was nice to see them.
we went to pick up todd - the airport was literally down the road - it worked out great. we made it right on time, but he didn't. there were 6 (!) planes that landed at his time, and his was the last one. it got tiring to try and keep up the excitement for amelia. "here's daddy's plane! here's daddy's plane!" "O, wait, no it isn't." Finally i just said, "look - here comes a plane!" it went much better.
she was very happy to see her daddy - although she plays hard to get with him - she seemed to forget that when she saw him and flung her arms around his neck and held on. then, she realized what she was doing and started saying, "mommy hold you!" it was funny!
we went and had a great dinner at the hotel - instead of having to wait at a restaurant forever down there. it really worked out great because there were only three other people there when we got there - it seemed like we had the restuarant to ourselves.
this morning we had breakfast and took the kids to toy's r us before we dropped todd off yet again at the airport. they all had a good time. amelia loved pushing a dolly all around the store in a stroller. too cute!
we had lunch at red robin (i want to keep calling it round robin - not sure why.) with gail and the boys. everyone had a good time. it was neat to try something different.
tomorrow morning is church - the bishop is coming. then, we will go visit mom and dad to take up some of the day, and then, we have to go to the grocery store and stock up on some things. then, back to hang out at home. it will be nice when tuesday gets here! we all cannot wait!!
we went to pick up todd - the airport was literally down the road - it worked out great. we made it right on time, but he didn't. there were 6 (!) planes that landed at his time, and his was the last one. it got tiring to try and keep up the excitement for amelia. "here's daddy's plane! here's daddy's plane!" "O, wait, no it isn't." Finally i just said, "look - here comes a plane!" it went much better.
she was very happy to see her daddy - although she plays hard to get with him - she seemed to forget that when she saw him and flung her arms around his neck and held on. then, she realized what she was doing and started saying, "mommy hold you!" it was funny!
we went and had a great dinner at the hotel - instead of having to wait at a restaurant forever down there. it really worked out great because there were only three other people there when we got there - it seemed like we had the restuarant to ourselves.
this morning we had breakfast and took the kids to toy's r us before we dropped todd off yet again at the airport. they all had a good time. amelia loved pushing a dolly all around the store in a stroller. too cute!
we had lunch at red robin (i want to keep calling it round robin - not sure why.) with gail and the boys. everyone had a good time. it was neat to try something different.
tomorrow morning is church - the bishop is coming. then, we will go visit mom and dad to take up some of the day, and then, we have to go to the grocery store and stock up on some things. then, back to hang out at home. it will be nice when tuesday gets here! we all cannot wait!!
Thursday, September 17, 2009
it's never ending, is it?
so, the boys had to go get their eyes checked today. they love going - except for the drops because dr. a is great with them. he puts them in the "magic" chair to lift them up. when he saw toby he asked him how college was going!
toby went first. his eyes got better, but his astygmatism got worse, so we needed a new prescription for those. noah went next - he has been complaining of headsches lately. his eyes changed just a smidge. dr. a said that if he wasn't getting headaches he wouldn't worry about his eye prescription, but because that is the case he wanted him to change his glasses too. OY VEY! the prices of glasses and lenses these days. it is a good thing todd had a winning streak in vegas because it is all going to the eye doctor!
diet wise, i have given up for this week. fighting migraines. and, if i am fighting migraines, i am NOT going to start a new diet program. the diet is hard enough to deal with let alone dealing with that AND migraines.
on a brighter note, todd comes home tomorrow night. even if it is for the night we at least get to see him!
still trying to get the brownie recipe up. i may have to hand type it all out!
toby went first. his eyes got better, but his astygmatism got worse, so we needed a new prescription for those. noah went next - he has been complaining of headsches lately. his eyes changed just a smidge. dr. a said that if he wasn't getting headaches he wouldn't worry about his eye prescription, but because that is the case he wanted him to change his glasses too. OY VEY! the prices of glasses and lenses these days. it is a good thing todd had a winning streak in vegas because it is all going to the eye doctor!
diet wise, i have given up for this week. fighting migraines. and, if i am fighting migraines, i am NOT going to start a new diet program. the diet is hard enough to deal with let alone dealing with that AND migraines.
on a brighter note, todd comes home tomorrow night. even if it is for the night we at least get to see him!
still trying to get the brownie recipe up. i may have to hand type it all out!
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
well....
Today was stressful - hence, i didn't get to follow 100%, but i will get there! started out ood, but gt a migraine and caved. i figured that would happen at some point.
The boys were nearly late or school this morning, and it seemed like everything that could go wrong did. I hate having to rush around evry morning an worrying that we will be late.
Amelia didn't want to take a nap today. Toby had to get his too filled after school, he had soccer practice, and then, there was open house. I ordered Ted's pizza to pick up, and walked in with my credit card. do not walk in with credit cards - they do not take them! I had NO cash on me at all. This was after soccer in between open house. I was so frazzled. I got them to take a check - finally. that is not advised wither, by the way!
I am working on getting my peanut butter brownie recipe up for everyone. it is not going to be tonight, but hopefully tomorrow. I am off to chat on the phone with my hubby. Friday can not get here soon enough.
Pressure begins for the Chicago show - everyone wants to know where you are.......everyone wants to know if you are coming. Apparently the Jakubowski family is one to not be forgotten.
Tomorrow is another day........
The boys were nearly late or school this morning, and it seemed like everything that could go wrong did. I hate having to rush around evry morning an worrying that we will be late.
Amelia didn't want to take a nap today. Toby had to get his too filled after school, he had soccer practice, and then, there was open house. I ordered Ted's pizza to pick up, and walked in with my credit card. do not walk in with credit cards - they do not take them! I had NO cash on me at all. This was after soccer in between open house. I was so frazzled. I got them to take a check - finally. that is not advised wither, by the way!
I am working on getting my peanut butter brownie recipe up for everyone. it is not going to be tonight, but hopefully tomorrow. I am off to chat on the phone with my hubby. Friday can not get here soon enough.
Pressure begins for the Chicago show - everyone wants to know where you are.......everyone wants to know if you are coming. Apparently the Jakubowski family is one to not be forgotten.
Tomorrow is another day........
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
an update, and then onward -
So, day one was mostly good - a little bumps, but nothing that wasn't manageable. I made the kids brownies, but I am not at the point yet to stay away from them. This is a good thing to know.
Today, I have had my breakfast - banana with all natural peanut butter. Lunch is seafood stuffed salmon with a bunch of veggies and a fruit salad. Dinner is chicken and mushroom dijon. Again with a bunch of veggies - minus the potato. I feel good today. No migraines due to lack of sugar - yet. I also have drank two glasses of water.
I get my hair cut today - just a trim. I am trying to grow it out. I don't want to do anything too drastic until there is a new me that can go along with the new 'do!
Today, I have had my breakfast - banana with all natural peanut butter. Lunch is seafood stuffed salmon with a bunch of veggies and a fruit salad. Dinner is chicken and mushroom dijon. Again with a bunch of veggies - minus the potato. I feel good today. No migraines due to lack of sugar - yet. I also have drank two glasses of water.
I get my hair cut today - just a trim. I am trying to grow it out. I don't want to do anything too drastic until there is a new me that can go along with the new 'do!
Monday, September 14, 2009
day one on a way to a new me
O.k. - so, i broke dieting rule #1 all ready and it is only the first day, but it isn't a bad one. I didn't have breakfast. There is a reason fo this though - Todd ss out of town - I am lucky that I got the kids to school on time at all. Then, I help out in Toby's classroom every morning. After I left the school, I went to the grocery store to stock up on some much needed food for myself for the week. I had to do that and get the groceries put away because I am waiting for my new, new stove to arrive.
SOOO, I missed breakfast, but instead of taking anything into my mouth that is not good for me, I waited. I weighed myself, and can I just say, I weigh less than I thought I would, but not where I want to be. And, I am ok with this. Because I am going to get there.
Now, Amelia is asleep, and I am waiting for my new, new stove to get here, and I made myself a salad with lettuce, crab, reduced fat feta cheese, avocado, lemon juice, and olive oil. I am eating while I type.
Snack later is going to be tomatoes with mozzarella, or a banana with natural peanut butter. Dinner - if my stove makes it here - is going to be chili. I am excited to start on the road to a new me, and I am not craving anything yet. O, and I have had about 4 glasses of water all ready! Yay me!
Please, wish me luck, and keep your fingers crossed. You are along for a ride on this journey with me!
SOOO, I missed breakfast, but instead of taking anything into my mouth that is not good for me, I waited. I weighed myself, and can I just say, I weigh less than I thought I would, but not where I want to be. And, I am ok with this. Because I am going to get there.
Now, Amelia is asleep, and I am waiting for my new, new stove to get here, and I made myself a salad with lettuce, crab, reduced fat feta cheese, avocado, lemon juice, and olive oil. I am eating while I type.
Snack later is going to be tomatoes with mozzarella, or a banana with natural peanut butter. Dinner - if my stove makes it here - is going to be chili. I am excited to start on the road to a new me, and I am not craving anything yet. O, and I have had about 4 glasses of water all ready! Yay me!
Please, wish me luck, and keep your fingers crossed. You are along for a ride on this journey with me!
Sunday, September 13, 2009
the chili recipe
I lost my chili recipe, and I will be trying the one out that you see below. I love the chili with cocoa powder - it makes it so dark and yummy! Getting on the dit band wagon starting tomorrow. Wish me luck.
I am SICK of being overweight. I have been overweight for as lng as I can remember. NO MORE!
I am excited to restart the next phase of my life. My baby phase is over. Now t is time t ous on the me stage. I need to take careof myself for my babies. HMMMM......if I go off of the wagon I can read this and remotivate myself. Plus, all of you reading my blog can help keep me on track. I would love to hear from you.....
I am SICK of being overweight. I have been overweight for as lng as I can remember. NO MORE!
I am excited to restart the next phase of my life. My baby phase is over. Now t is time t ous on the me stage. I need to take careof myself for my babies. HMMMM......if I go off of the wagon I can read this and remotivate myself. Plus, all of you reading my blog can help keep me on track. I would love to hear from you.....
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
zucchini parmesan
Soooooo - here is my favorite recipe that I made up this summer. It is super yummy - the boys - all 3 of them and Amelia LOVE it!
Take eggs (2-3) and mix in with milk, salt, and pepper in a pie plate.
In another pie plate, pour flour.
Cut zucchini into round slices.
First, coat zucckini in flour; then move into the egg mixture.
Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. When it is hot enough put slices of zucchini in and fry until soft and brown.
Put about 3 tablespoons of sauce on bottom of a 13x9 pan. make sure the sauce covers the bottom of pan lightly.
Take 2 of the fried zucchini and stack them around the pan. Put 1 tablespoon of sauce over each stack along with some fresh mozzarella cheese. Take 2 more fried zucchini and stack on top of the others. Add another tablespoon of sauce and more cheese.
Bake at 350* for 25 -30 minutes - or until heated through.
ENJOY!
It is a lot of work to fry the zucchini and assemble it, but it is so worth it!
Take eggs (2-3) and mix in with milk, salt, and pepper in a pie plate.
In another pie plate, pour flour.
Cut zucchini into round slices.
First, coat zucckini in flour; then move into the egg mixture.
Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. When it is hot enough put slices of zucchini in and fry until soft and brown.
Put about 3 tablespoons of sauce on bottom of a 13x9 pan. make sure the sauce covers the bottom of pan lightly.
Take 2 of the fried zucchini and stack them around the pan. Put 1 tablespoon of sauce over each stack along with some fresh mozzarella cheese. Take 2 more fried zucchini and stack on top of the others. Add another tablespoon of sauce and more cheese.
Bake at 350* for 25 -30 minutes - or until heated through.
ENJOY!
It is a lot of work to fry the zucchini and assemble it, but it is so worth it!
day two of blogging
I do not think that I am cut out for this blogging thing. Not quite sure, but thought I would give it a try. I have a pretty dull life compared to some.
I guess I can use this space to show my recipes too - it doesn't all have to be talking about my life - which can be quite dull! LOL
I will update more later, but wanted to give an update on Nan. She is leaving the hospital today to go back to the nursing home. The doctors say that she is critical. As for a prognosis, I am unsure.
I guess I can use this space to show my recipes too - it doesn't all have to be talking about my life - which can be quite dull! LOL
I will update more later, but wanted to give an update on Nan. She is leaving the hospital today to go back to the nursing home. The doctors say that she is critical. As for a prognosis, I am unsure.
my nanny
So, for as long as I can remember my Nan was going to die. She was never going to make it to another birthday - hers or mine. She was not going to make it to my wedding. She certainly was not going to make it to see her great grandchildren.
Her life has certainly not been an easy one. She had three children within 36 months of each other. Boy, do I admire her for THAT! She was a widow when she was in her 40's. Remarried, and a few short months later had a heart attack and then a stroke - that was in her mid 50's. I can certainly say in all honesty there is no one I know who is more strong than her.
But, this time I am so afraid that this is her last fight. The real end of the line, and for the life of me I cannot come to terms with it!
She s my earliest memory - true, it isn't a good one, but it is of her nonetheless. We were at the old A&W drive in and he was not feeling well. She got out of the car and had a cigarette. I remember my mothe yelling at he to getin the car - we were going to take her to the hospital. (she was having her first heart attack.) I think I wasn't even 4.
I remember the year Todd and I got married - she had a bad hear attack and was air lifted to Burlington inthe DART helicopter - Todd and I drove up every night to Burligton to see her. I told her that she couldn't give up because she had to be at my wedding. She wasalways a fighter.
When I had Noah at 27 weeks, my mom brought her to Burlington shortly after I had him. My doctor was an Italian doctor, and she was so happy she shouted, "My Paisano!" I thought the doctor was going to fall over because someone could speak some Italian.
She certainly has not lost her sense of humor. The last time she was hospitalized before this she told us her dctor was a cutie! How can you argue with that?
I love Nanny. Not just because she is mine, but because of the lady that she is. She is a role model for love. She is a beacon of hope. She is light that shines when needed -ready to give love. She is funny and kind.
I am not ready to say good-bye. I am not ready to tell my kids that they have to either. She will tell you that she has had a good, long life - is it bad that I want it to last longer? I hope that if I am fortunate enough to live to 87 that I look as good as she does. Not a wrinkle lines her porcelain skin.
I guess I want to thank God for giving me time with her. For her love for me. I am fortunate to be a part of her, and I wil never forget that!
Her life has certainly not been an easy one. She had three children within 36 months of each other. Boy, do I admire her for THAT! She was a widow when she was in her 40's. Remarried, and a few short months later had a heart attack and then a stroke - that was in her mid 50's. I can certainly say in all honesty there is no one I know who is more strong than her.
But, this time I am so afraid that this is her last fight. The real end of the line, and for the life of me I cannot come to terms with it!
She s my earliest memory - true, it isn't a good one, but it is of her nonetheless. We were at the old A&W drive in and he was not feeling well. She got out of the car and had a cigarette. I remember my mothe yelling at he to getin the car - we were going to take her to the hospital. (she was having her first heart attack.) I think I wasn't even 4.
I remember the year Todd and I got married - she had a bad hear attack and was air lifted to Burlington inthe DART helicopter - Todd and I drove up every night to Burligton to see her. I told her that she couldn't give up because she had to be at my wedding. She wasalways a fighter.
When I had Noah at 27 weeks, my mom brought her to Burlington shortly after I had him. My doctor was an Italian doctor, and she was so happy she shouted, "My Paisano!" I thought the doctor was going to fall over because someone could speak some Italian.
She certainly has not lost her sense of humor. The last time she was hospitalized before this she told us her dctor was a cutie! How can you argue with that?
I love Nanny. Not just because she is mine, but because of the lady that she is. She is a role model for love. She is a beacon of hope. She is light that shines when needed -ready to give love. She is funny and kind.
I am not ready to say good-bye. I am not ready to tell my kids that they have to either. She will tell you that she has had a good, long life - is it bad that I want it to last longer? I hope that if I am fortunate enough to live to 87 that I look as good as she does. Not a wrinkle lines her porcelain skin.
I guess I want to thank God for giving me time with her. For her love for me. I am fortunate to be a part of her, and I wil never forget that!
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