Menu 9/4-9/10

This week is so awesome. I have everything I need except maybe a pack of hamburger buns. Of course I have the regular milk and bread on my list but this week I’m looking for deals to spend my money on. I love weeks like this…I think I’m on a role!

Weekly Menu

Sunday 9/4
Sloppy Joes

Monday 9/5 – plan a cookout it is Labor Day(have everyone bring their meat for the grill and a side or dessert)
Hamburgers

Tuesday 9/6
Waffles & Sausage (remember breakfast each week saves your budget)

Wednesday 9/7
Cheeseburger Mac

Thursday 9/8
Italian Roast & Potatoes

Friday 9/9
Fried Rice (use left over roast)

Saturday 9/10
Chicken Tenders

This week is a simple menu. Remember having a change in schedules, like kids not being in school or a holiday can really turn you routine up side down. So make it simple and not worry yourself. If you have some extra time make a special dessert or cooka meal and freeze it for a crazy day you can't get it all done.

8/28-9/3/11 Weekly Menu

I had planned on getting this on here at 6:30 am but well life happens and it just didn’t happen…no need for excuses.

So I picked my menu from my pantry. I hardly have any items to get from the grocery store. This week would be a good week for me to use my budget for groceries to stock up on pantry and freezer items. I will only need to get the following from the store this week:

Bread (weekly staple)
Milk (weekly staple)
Sour Cream (menu needed)
Butter (monthly staple)

I haven't had time to review my sales ads so I don't know what esle I will be adding...hopefully some great deals.

It really helps to stock up when things are on sale. I figure I will spend no more that $10 at the store this week unless I find some great deals. Try to utilize what you have on hand and rotate your inventory so you don’t end up with out of date items. Remember the rule of thumb is that it will be on sale every 6 week on the average. So just plan for no more than 2 months unless you have the room.

Weekly Menu

Sunday 8/28
Potato Soup

Monday 8/29
Panini Burgers

Tuesday 8/30
Tuna Casserole

Wednesday 8/31
Omelets & Toast

Thursday 9/1
Pizza or Calzones

Friday 9/2
Crock Pot Chicken & Veggies

Saturday 9/3
Chicken Parmesan Spaghetti

Saying goodbye to an era...

So anyone that knows me and has visit our house since Cameron was born...knows that there has always been a bathroom decorated in Winnie the Pooh. Cameron will be 13 years old this coming October and well I guess is was time to move on. Over the years I've asked him if he wanted to redecorate his bathroom and he said no. Even last year when he started Middle School I told him he might not want friends to come over and see a bathroom decorated in Winnie the Pooh. He said he didn't care. So finally with my encouragement we are saying goodbye to and era of Winnie the Pooh and a new era has started...the frogs. Last weekend we redone the bathroom and it really looks empty. Long gone are the Pooh hamper and step stool, which gives them more space. So long to all the friends...Piglet, Eeyore, Rabbit, Owl, Tigger and yes goodbye buddy Pooh. I guess this is the bathroom all grown up...well at least on the next step up. Just a little sad reminder that the kids are growing up everyday and well so is everything around us. I'm looking forward to what adventures in froggie land we might have and I hope he hops around with us for a long time to come....

I just love that rug...look at froggie's eyes.

The new colors are such a big change.

Wonder how long this will stay clean.

We still need a shelf and few things for the wall but I think we made a good choice.

Fun to be had...

So I was thinking maybe some of you don't know what's going on in the Chattanooga area that might be a little entertaining. You might be suprised at all the free things our area has to offer. I went to the visitor center and look at what is happening this weekend: (if you want to read more about any activity go to www.chattanoogafun.com and get more detailed information)

Friday, August 19, 2011


National Softball Association (NSA) 3rd Annual Black American World Series ()
Summit of Softball Complex
8:00 AM - 8:00 PM

Devlink 2011 Technical Conference ($)
Chattanooga Convention Center
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
The Devlink Technical Conference is an event for professionals who want to stay up to date on current and emerging technologies. The conference features content for software developers, database admin ...

Bob the Builder: Project: Build It ($)
Creative Discovery Museum
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Children and families work together creating an eco-friendly community. Use work tools, "drive" building vehicles, design a blueprint, and create landscaping while interacting with life-size 3-D char ...

Rock City Raptors Birds of Prey Shows ($)
Rock City Gardens
11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Come experience this amazing birds of prey show in Rock Citys Critter Classroom! Back for its 7th year, come and see hawks soaring in the sky above Rock City. Enjoy this rare opportunity to witness th ...

Fresh on Fridays/All local food, flowers, fruit (FREE)
Miller Plaza
11:00 AM - 2:00 AM
Fresh On Fridays highlights fresh made offerings from local restaurants, food trucks, artisans and farmers participants include Southern Burger Company, Famous Naters World Famous, Good Dog, Link 41, ...

Nightfall Concert Series (Fridays, May-Sept.) (FREE)
Chattanooga Presents
7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Held at Miller Plaza, this series brings around 2,500 people every Friday night and features international, national and regional talent. Enjoy food, beverages and great music of all genres. Check web ...

Chattanooga Lookouts baseball home games - Aug. ($)
Chattanooga Lookouts AT&T Field
7:15 PM - 9:15 AM The Chattanooga Lookouts are a Double-A Affiliate team for the LA Dodgers. Individual game tickets are available for all home games. At prices ranging from just $2 - $8, Lookouts Baseball is the most ...

Music On The Mountain: Best of Nashville/1 hour from Chattanooga ($)
Jim Oliver's Smoke House
7:30 PM - 10:30 PM
Aug. 5 Jason Link & Lance Pool with Jonathan Knight
Aug. 12 Flat River Band and Kaylin Karr
Aug. 13 Shawn Mayer and Little Tree
Aug. 19 Clay Canfield and Jeff Pyatt
Aug. 20 ...

Shakespeare's The Comedy of Errors by Ensemble Theatre of Chattanooga ($)
St Andrews Center
7:30 PM - 9:30 PM
This is your classic tale of mistaken identity! In Shakespeare's shortest comedy, we meet two sets of twins who were separated at birth and relish in the chaos that ensues when they unknowingly come t ...

Saturday, August 20, 2011


National Softball Association (NSA) 3rd Annual Black American World Series ()
Summit of Softball Complex
8:00 AM - 8:00 PM

Summer Music Weekends ($)
Rock City Gardens
8:30 AM - 8:00 PM
May 28-Sept 5 Sat/Sun/Holidays 8:30 am-8 pm
Enjoy some toe-tapping music and barbeque with a view at Lover's Leap during Summer Music Weekends. Memorial Day-Labor Day and Holidays. ...

Chattanooga Mud Run (FREE TO WATCH)
Greenway Farms
9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
August 20 9 am - 3 pm
Jumping over hurdles, sliding head first into a pit of mud and sprinting to be the first across the finish line! Habitat for Humanity of Greater Chattanooga hosts Chatta ...

Chattanooga River Market (Saturdays, March 19-Sept.24) (FREE)
Chattanooga Market
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
The Chattanooga River Market is held weekly on Ross's Landing in the Tennessee Aquarium plaza and will include live music from local and touring artists, arts & crafts vendors and more. Like all of th ...

Bob the Builder: Project: Build It ($)
Creative Discovery Museum
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Children and families work together creating an eco-friendly community. Use work tools, "drive" building vehicles, design a blueprint, and create landscaping while interacting with life-size 3-D char ...

Rock City Raptors Birds of Prey Shows ($)
Rock City Gardens
11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Come experience this amazing birds of prey show in Rock Citys Critter Classroom! Back for its 7th year, come and see hawks soaring in the sky above Rock City. Enjoy this rare opportunity to witness th ...

Shakespeare's The Comedy of Errors by Ensemble Theatre of Chattanooga ($)
St Andrews Center
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
This is your classic tale of mistaken identity! In Shakespeare's shortest comedy, we meet two sets of twins who were separated at birth and relish in the chaos that ensues when they unknowingly come t ...

Artist Talk Back & Demonstration by Contemporary Jazz recording Artist Eric Essix (FREE)
Chattanoogan Hotel/Foundry Lounge
3:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Prior to the Bessie Smith Heritage Festival, make plans to meet contemporary jazz recording artist and guitarist, Eric Essix. Essix's music is frequently heard on Music Choice and other jazz televisio ...

Bessie Smith Heritage Festival With Headliner Grammy Award-Winner Chrisette Michele ($)
Bessie Smith Cultural Center
5:00 PM - 12:00 AM
Summer may be coming to a close but there's no reason to be "blue." Instead, get on your dancing shoes and celebrate the summer's end Bessie Smith style at the 4th annual Bessie Smith Heritage Festiva ...

Riverfront Nights Music Series (FREE)
Riverfront Nights
7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
This Free music series is held downtown on the Chattanooga riverfront. Enjoy food, drinks and great music every week. Free & fee-based boat parking available. ...

Chattanooga Lookouts baseball home games - Aug. ($)
Chattanooga Lookouts AT&T Field
7:15 PM - 9:15 AM
The Chattanooga Lookouts are a Double-A Affiliate team for the LA Dodgers. Individual game tickets are available for all home games. At prices ranging from just $2 - $8, Lookouts Baseball is the most ...

Music On The Mountain: Best of Nashville/1 hour from Chattanooga ($)
Jim Oliver's Smoke House
7:30 PM - 10:30 PM
Aug. 5 Jason Link & Lance Pool with Jonathan Knight
Aug. 12 Flat River Band and Kaylin Karr
Aug. 13 Shawn Mayer and Little Tree
Aug. 19 Clay Canfield and Jeff Pyatt
Aug. 20 ...


Sunday, August 21, 2011


National Softball Association (NSA) 3rd Annual Black American World Series ()
Summit of Softball Complex
8:00 AM - 8:00 PM

Summer Music Weekends ($)
Rock City Gardens
8:30 AM - 8:00 PM
May 28-Sept 5 Sat/Sun/Holidays 8:30 am-8 pm
Enjoy some toe-tapping music and barbeque with a view at Lover's Leap during Summer Music Weekends. Memorial Day-Labor Day and Holidays. ...

Chattanooga Market (Sundays, May 1-Dec 4) (FREE)
First Tennessee Pavilion
11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Celebrating our 10 year anniversary as a local hot spot for tourists and locals alike, the Chattanooga Market is geared up for another successful season with a full events calendar and overabundance o ...

Rock City Raptors Birds of Prey Shows ($)
Rock City Gardens
11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Come experience this amazing birds of prey show in Rock Citys Critter Classroom! Back for its 7th year, come and see hawks soaring in the sky above Rock City. Enjoy this rare opportunity to witness th ...

Bob the Builder: Project: Build It ($)
Creative Discovery Museum
12:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Children and families work together creating an eco-friendly community. Use work tools, "drive" building vehicles, design a blueprint, and create landscaping while interacting with life-size 3-D char ...

Lake Winnepesaukah hosts WinniSTAR Talent Search ($)
Lake Winnepesaukah Amusement Park
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Dancers, singers, magicians, comedians, and guests of all talents are encouraged to step into the spotlight at Lake Winnepesaukah Amusement Park! The 2011 Lake Winnie Talent Search is the chance for ...

Shakespeare's The Comedy of Errors by Ensemble Theatre of Chattanooga ($)
St Andrews Center
6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
This is your classic tale of mistaken identity! In Shakespeare's shortest comedy, we meet two sets of twins who were separated at birth and relish in the chaos that ensues when they unknowingly come t ...

Blueberry Topped Pancakes

So tonight is our breakfast night on the menu. It's always fun for the family to have breakfast at dinner. Pancakes and Turkey Bacon was what I had planned and then I happen to think I had peaches and blueberries and well as you can see the blueberries won. So I decided to make a compote for the top and Cameron requested whipped cream and I just happen to have some cool whip in the fridge that was still good (I always have one in the freezer just in case I need it and all I have to do is thaw it). As you can see the pancakes turned out yummy and we are all stuffed.

Blueberry Compote

1 bag of frozen blueberries (you can use fresh 1 pint)
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup water
1 tbsp cornstarch

Just put blueberries, sugar and water in a pan on high and bring to a boil. Let boil for a few minutes and then mix your cornstarch with a small amount of water until blended and add to pot while stirring. Put on simmer until ready to serve if you want you let cool and place in fridge.

This works for all types of fruits and makes a quick topping at a moments notice. You may want to keep a pound cake in the freezer along with some fruit or berries for a quick company dessert or a last minute family snack. Hope you enjoy!

Tip on freezing

Well I was all about learning to can my fresh veggies this year but I have stumbled across a much easier and less expensive way to save them. I've always been told that using frozen veggies was just like picking them from your garden so when I read that some people just freeze everything they grow it made sense. I froze corn last year and I was told I had to shuck them and boil it and then dry and bag, same with green beans...so that was why I decide to learn to can. Luckily I figured out the alternative before I purchased all that canning equipment. This year I just invested in gallon freezer bags.

The best thing we added to our appliances was an upright freezer (I remember the digging through my granny's chest freezer and I know I probably won't risk falling in like I did when I was a kid, but upright is easier to see all you have stored up). This allows us to stock up on meat sales, especially helpful when Kevin is laid off through the winter months. So if you have the space and can afford a freezer it will pay off over time.

The two things I've got readily available in my freezer from my garden this year is tomatoes and bell peppers. With the peppers I just cut tops of, seeded them, rinsed and let dry. I put them in a freezer bag and straight in the freezer. My tomatoes rinsed and let dry, then in the freezer bag and in the freezer. If you have trouble getting the air out you can use a straw to suck out all the air and then seal that corner...I'm not lucky enough to own one of those expensive sealers you see on T.V. but this works just fine.

When you take the peppers out they thaw fast so I cut them while froze the size I want them, strips or diced. When you take the tomatoes out, just set out to thaw and the peeling with come right off and they are ready to use any way you want them. One thing I like about this is I can take out just what I plan to use and everything is as fresh as when I put it in. I'm still researching all of this and will keep you posted. Please feel free to comment on your experience and ideas.

Frozen Tomatoes and Bell Peppers

Weekly Menu 8/21-27/11

This week is going to be easy on me. As usual I have some pre-made items that will save me some time. I love making double batches and freezing so that I have quick access with a homemade flavor when I need it. I’m really making life easy for myself this week and my grocery bill just basically will be:

milk
bread
dry or canned red beans
hot dog buns
squash (my garden quit on this item)

I really like to keep my pantry stocked with grab items and so I never run out of stuff like ketchup. I’ll try to come up with a staple pantry and hopefully it will help you. If you do a monthly pantry budget and a weekly budget you will find your grocery budget will go a lot further. I hope you enjoy this week’s menu and it makes your life easier. I’d love to hear from you, feel free to comment below.


Weekly Menu

Sunday 8/21
Hot Dogs
Baked Beans

Monday 8/22
Chili Cheese Fries (left over chili from freezer, made before click on link below)
http://tennesseefamily.blogspot.com/2010/01/spicy-black-bean-chili.html

Tuesday 8/23
Tacos
Spanish Rice

Wednesday 8/24
Red Beans and Rice with Smoked Sausage (made this before, click on link below to my livestrong recipe box)
http://www.livestrong.com/recipes/red-beans-rice-w-cajun-sausage/

Thursday 8/25
Leftovers or Soup and Sandwich

Friday 8/26
Breakfast Sandwiches (remember breakfast for 1 dinner a week will save on your grocery bill)

Saturday 8/27
Chicken Squash Pasta (made this before, click on link below)
http://tennesseefamily.blogspot.com/2011/07/yummy-chicken-squash-pasta.html

Deals - Redbox Movie/Game 8/15-24/11

Click on the link for the next 10 days of deals with Redbox. Nothing like renting a movie or game for $0.10 - $1.00. The link gives you all the details and what a great way to have family movie or game night with hardly any expense. Hope you enjoy my Tuesday Deal of the Week...

http://www.redbox.com/10-days-of-deals

Weekly Menu 8/14-20/11

Decide to start posting some helpful things. Perhaps it will inspire you to create your own menu or just use mine as a quick help. I will start posting this on Wednesday for the next week to follow since the grocery sales ads hit on Wednesday and you can plan and adjust the upcomming weeks menu to suit sales or your panty and families need.

This last week was easy shopping for me. Here's what we are eating this week.

Sunday August 14th
Chicago Style Pizza (made a few weeks ago and just had to defrost and bake) see recipe below

Monday August 15th
Quesadilla Burgers & Chips (bought tortillas for 2 meals this week to save) see recipe below

Tuesday August 16th
Chicken Fried Steak & Gravy (purchased already breaded chicken in bulk for time and savings)
Mashed Potatoes
Peas
Biscuits

Wednesday August 17th
Beef Stroganof Helper
Salad

Thursday August 18th
Pancakes (having breakfast once a week can really save on your grocery budget)
Bacon

Friday August 19th
Chicken Fajitas (using tortillas from Monday)

Saturday August 20th
Southwest Chicken - see below for recipe
Roasted Potatoes
Salad (leftover from Wednesday)


RECIPES FOR THIS WEEKS MENU

Chicago Style Pizza
1 can Jumbo Biscuit (8ct)
Pizza Sauce
Cheese
Toppings

Roll out biscuits and lay in pie pan (4 biscuits per pan, cut to adjust and press seams together), add toppings (I use ground turkey, italian sausage and pepperoni), I cook my toppings first except pepperoni of course, top with cheese and then pizza sauce, bake according to biscuit directions. (I make a double batch and freeze 2, bake, freeze them in the pie pan and then pop them out of the pie pan and slip into a ziploc bag and remove all air, when it comes time to warm them up just pull them out of the freezer and place back in pie pan and thaw and bake to warm through-makes for a quick no mess meal on a busy day)


Quesadilla Burgers
Flour Tortillas (small)
Hamburger Patties (I try to keep premade patties in the freezer for quick access and no mess)
Shredded Cheese
Salsa

Cook hamburgers, spray fry pan with non-stick spray, layer in torilla, cheese, salsa, cooked pattie, cheese and top with another tortilla, cook until browned and flip, make sure all is melted and serve, great on the grill...why dirty the kitchen.


Southwest Chicken
Chicken Breast for each person
Pepper Jack Cheese Slices
BBQ Sauce

Grill Chicken Breast until done, spread BBQ sauce on top and lay a slice of Pepper Jack Cheese on top until melted and then ready to serve.

I made homeade pizza sauce...can you believe it!

Well the tomato plants are really doing great this year and I'm getting into something other than my family famous fajitas, southern tomato mayo sandwich and salsa. I decided to try my hand at a tomato sauce and since tonight was pizza night it was the perfect time. I think this would be great with spaghetti or any pasta dish. It would compliment chicken, steak, shrimp...I'm just so pleased at how it turned out and everyone in the family liked it. I will definitely make this often even if I have to used good canned tomatoes in the off season. So without further delay...

2 onions, chopped
1 tbsp minced garlic
olive oil
tomatoes on hand (I had 3 large ones)
Italian Seasoning
1 tbsp sugar
salt and pepper

I put some olive oil in my pan and sauteed my onions with salt and pepper until translucent and then added my garlic and Italian Seasoning. While this was going on I cored my tomatoes and removed about half the skin...most of the tomatoes were so ripe the skin was thin so it really didn't require it and it cooks down so I don't think it is necessary, then I diced them up and added them to my pan and brought to a boil and added my sugar. I let it boil for about 10 minutes and then turned it to medium low to simmer and reduce.

I'm so proud of myself...this was a first. I will never (well never say never) by tomato sauce again. I will try to always make mine and I'm sure it will make me famous. I forgot to take a picture but since it will be a regular recipe I'll get one on here soon. You know what this has to be good for any diet...

Day 2 Homeschooling

Well I have to say I overslept this morning...I had to just hit that snooze. So finally 7:15 am I dragged my butt out of bed and got Cameron moving. He didn't seem quite as enthusiastic as yesterday morning. Slowly went through the motions of all the assignment and decided to show his little attitude when it came time for Math. Now with short-term memory loss math has never been easy for Cameron and he also has a LD for math. I had to just set him straight and remind him that he is rewarded for good attitude and finishing his work daily by playing video games and if he didn't improve then he would loose this privilege and possibly permanently through the week. Well all of a sudden the dark turned to light. So we finished this day on a good note. All assignments done and he did a good job. I know things are rough with his issues but consistency is the ticket and a little tough love never hurts.

Day 1 Homeschooling

Well we started out with a good day. After a 7 am wake up call, followed by breakfast and chores Cameron was all set to start his day at 8 am. He seemed very calm and eager to get the day going. First subject was Bible, followed by Reading, Spelling and Vocabulary. These subjects seemed to flow by quickly and with very few questions. Next we tackled Math...the dreaded subject. I'm amazed at how well he did. I think he just took his time at his own pace, only had two questions and conquered today's assignment. Next was Science and he already had a microscope experiment. The ability to add interactive things seemed to be to his liking. Finally he finished with Social Studies and English. I think all in all for a first day of homeschooling he did fantastic. There seemed to be no stress factor and of course the incentive of playing video games (with a time limit of course) when all is finished was a good nudge in the right direction. I asked him how his day was going and he said good. So with fingers crossed, tomorrows assignments are ready and we will just call this a great day of school.

Thursday Tattler

Today started out with full of energy and I'm very optimistic about the upcoming week. Breanna will be home Sunday and Kevin is getting her computer all ready for her to become more knowledgeable. We are going to start to give her some daily computer time so that she is more comfortable with maneuvering and allow her to use the Disney website, since it is one of her favorite stations on TV.

Kevin is home and we are doing some planning. I'm amazed at how well we communicate. No matter what I throw his way he is always supportive. I have been really working on budgets and calendars this week. Bills are being paid on time and today one got paid early (this was a task we were concerned about since I quit my job). We never really worry because we know God always has is in his care and always comes through for us. Of course we are human and I'm OCD so a little planning never hurts, I think God wants it that way. We have decided to to a little tweaking and make the current computers in the house work for us. We have a ridiculous amount of computers...seriously. We have a family desk top that is older than dirt and with a $50 upgrade it should last us a couple more years. Kevin, Cameron and I all have laptops (mine being the oldest) and Breanna has a desk top that was refurbed. So we figured by spending just $50 that we can make them all stay in commission for a couple more years. Our goal is to buy a new all-in-one top of the line in 2013 for the family and then reaccess from there. So one big decision made.

For those who don't know my car has been on blocks now for...well I can't remember how long, I'd say a month. Finally the parts are supposed to be here today, coming UPS. Local shops didn't sell them and Kevin had to get them online. We are just on the other side of the green so to speak. Hopefully next weekend Kevin won't have to work and will be able to dedicate those days to repairing it. He's a bit stressed because this a new fix for him and from what he tells me if it doesn't line up right the engine won't crank...and that would be bad. He'd have to start over. But hey I have all the patience and faith in him. I told him don't rush, I don't need it, I've managed this long and well take your time and do it at a pace you are comfortable with so that you don't get frustrated. He is the best husband and father and I would never put too much on him on purpose.

I'm really excited about the upcoming changes at our house. Our storm door shattered a little while back and well we really didn't see the rush (wish we had), with all the rain this year and living on a hill (downhill) water leaked into our entry and well the floor is weakened. So we are going to fix that area and pull up the living room carpet and put matching kitchen flooring down since it is adjoining. We have the carpet to put in both the kids rooms. So the plan is to redecorate the living room. I've got browns and neutrals in mind. I'm just not sure really. I want to get two tall bookcases to match our TV stand and for both sides, possibly with some doors for hidden storage. We are going to really minimize our furniture, hoping to keep a more spacious look. I love my new wooden blinds so I don't really want a window treatment. I guess we shall see as the weeks go by.

I want to buy a new fridge and stove after the first of the year. I really been thinking about all the new fridges on the market and I think I want a double wide side by side top and freezer on the bottom. I guess we shall see if we win the lottery first and how much of a dent Christmas ends up being. Of course I've already made my shopping list and am slowly working on it. I have the kids birthdays in October so that will be on the top of the money spending list.

With all the August calendar planning complete (menu, activities, Dr. Appts., Bre's visitation, Bre's school schedule, Cameron's Homeschooling, work, etc.) I'm feeling very confident that this month will go smooth. I got Cameron into his old Psychologist for his therapy, doesn't start until September. I was so glad he could take us. It has been 2 years since we had him in regular therapy and I really didn't want him to have to get comfortable with someone new. Plus he is awesome. Nationally know and has wrote several books and workbooks for self-help. He is a Godly man and we always question that when we start treatment with anyone new.

So that's all the tattling I'm doing today. I'm sure there is more to tell but well I just may want to save some for later. I just have one last comment to add. Make time everyday to enjoy your family and never let a moment pass without telling them you love them.

Chicken Fajita Casserole

Well we know the story of my crock pot fajitas...this is actually how it turned out.

So I took my crock pot fajitas and put in a glass dish and then mixed up a new cornbread recipe I had found (I'm not sharing because I don't care for it). I decided to dollop the cornbread on the top and then baked at 450 for 20 minutes. I actually soaked up all the extra juice and is pretty tasty. Served with just a bit of sour cream. I definitely will do this again if I have leftover fajitas.

Wednesday Whining.....

Okay so last night I had the bright idea to make my famous (to my family) fajitas in the crock pot. I was concerned at the amount of liquid it might create and so this is what I came up with.

http://www.livestrong.com/recipes/crock-pot-chicken-fajitas/

The only thing I don't do is use chicken broth usually but thought it might need it (maybe I shouldn't have).

Anyway true to my thinking...too much liquid. I also think the veggie are too done for me (for fajitas). So I tasted it and had forgotten that the crock pot holds flavor in and it is very spicy...very tasty also. Not a complete mess. I decided this won't go to waste, so I'm going to stir up some cornbread and make a casserole. I also think it would make a good soup by adding more chicken broth and either cream cheese or sour cream. So tonight will be a trial and I'll have to post what happens and let you know if we have all survived.

Cameron starts homeschooling Monday. So today we went over his schedule and I had him write his first day of lessons in his agenda. I'm not sure that letting him pick his agenda was the best, I had my doubts that is was a good one but thinking about letting him have control of things that might not matter much I let him make the final decision. The problem is he writes too BIG. I think that probably is just a personal preference...I know some people that write so small that you can't read it. Oh well, so not much space to write and no lines (that's another issue in itself, lol).

So I'm whining on a Wednesday...I still have the rest of the week to overcome and well really all this isn't so bad.

One last note without all the details...don't make excuses to your ex about why you can't pick up your daughter (2 different excuses in a matter of hours, neither of which are legit) for visitation and then post on facebook what you have been doing and it contradicts your story. You just told on yourself..of course we knew you were lying because it is typical.

Yellow Squash Bread

I found the recipe online a while back and couldn't wait to try it. I will put it on here just like I found it but I ended up turning the heat up to 400 and baking it 1 hour and 45 minutes. I'm not sure why I had to do this. My oven is very accurate. It caused it to be burn on the edges and the bottom, top was fine since I put foil over it when I turned the heat up. I think next time I'll make muffins and hopefully it will turn out better. The taste of the bread was awesome. I definitely will make it again, especially with all the squash growing in the garden this year.

2 cups sugar
1 cup vegetable oil
3 eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
3 cups flour
1 tsp salt
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp cinnamon
2 cups unpeeled squash, shredded (it took about 3)
1 cup chopped nuts (I left these out since the kids don't care for them)

Beat sugar, oil, eggs and vanilla in mixing bowl until fluffy. Mix flour, salt, baking soda and cinnamon. Add to egg mixture and stir until well blended.

Stir in squash and nuts. Turn into greased and floured (I just used non-stick spray, worked great) 9 x 15 x 3 loaf pan. Bake at 350 for 1 hour and 20 minutes or until done (yeah). Wrap with foil when cool.

Red Beans and Rice with Cajun Sausage

Only 440 calories per serving. Click on my livestrong.com link for the recipe. This was an awesome throw together hit with the family. Enjoy.

http://www.livestrong.com/recipes/red-beans-rice-w-cajun-sausage/

Just a random Sunday...

I'm just sitting here relaxing and thinking about what a great weekend we had. Kevin has been off since Friday (very unusual) and we have packed as much fun and family time as we could. It started with errands and then a quick cleaning of the house on Friday. We threw together a small cookout with some friends of ours from Alabama. Nothing like a little steak, Cajun sausage on the grill. I parboiled some potatoes and then put them in aluminum foil packet with butter and seasonings (whatever you like, its different every time I make them but always good) then they went on the grill with foil wrapped corn on the cob that had butter and salt and pepper. Picked up some pita bread and brushed with olive oil to warm and put grill marks on. Made a white sangria for the adults and a mixed berry juicer for the kids. We all just sat around the pool with some good conversation and much needed relaxation. Of course we had to make s'mores with these huge campfire marshmallow my mother found for the kids (bigger than my fist), always the yummy finish to a summer meal. Kids showered and went to bed while the adults got to relax in the pool (something that never happens in this place). Was a late night for the 8 o'clock bed timer, but loads of fun...we plan to do it very soon and make it a bigger crowd.

Early rising Saturday we headed out for some shopping and then lunch with the folks. Everyone was wiped out from the heat so we came home and napped. A little TV and video games and a quick dip in the pool then it was time to head to our favorite babysitters Sweet 16 Birthday. We had a great time seeing old friends that are really just extended family. I love the way you can just see someone every six months and it is as though you have talked everyday. We came home and the kids swam awhile and then Bre' and I headed to bed while the boys stayed up playing video games.

Today has been great. After everything got rolling (the laundry) the kids cleaned their rooms and they have been swimming and slip n sliding all day. I think we will have a breakfast dinner tonight (a favorite). It seems like a biscuit and gravy, egg and bacon kind of night. yummy!

All in all it has been an awesome weekend with my family. I'm am so blessed. Sad that Monday will see Kevin back to work and Bre' leaving that evening for 7 days, but I know that more weekends are to come...

Time to budget...

Okay just some free advice. I hear people talk about needing to be on a budget and always saying they don't know where their money went. Well I've come across yet another FREE site that can make this easy for you. Mint.com will help you set a budget and track your money as well as set goals. It can be used for many other things but in its simplest for form it can be use by everyone easily. Check it out and give it a try, I hope it is really helpful and if so pass it on.

click this link: https://www.mint.com/

Yummy Chicken Squash Pasta

Needed to use some of my yellow summer squash from the garden and I've been looking a various recipes. I couldn't find one I wanted to make with pasta and Cameron decided I need to make something with farfalle pasta and Alfredo sauce so this is what I came up with based on his request.

2 boneless chicken breasts, diced
6 slices bacon, chopped
2 medium onions, sliced
1 jar Alfredo sauce
1 box farfalle pasta, cooked
2 cups yellow squash (whatever you have would probably be good), sliced
1 tsp. Italian seasoning
1 tbsp. minced garlic
olive oil
salt and pepper, to taste
crushed red pepper flakes, to taste

Cook bacon in a fry pan, add onions and minced garlic (may have to add a bit of olive oil). Cook until translucent and add Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes (always add salt and pepper as you layer your cooking). Add squash and steam. Drain cooked pasta and add Alfredo sauce until warmed through, top with fry pan contents. Cook diced chicken (I like small pieces), in a small amount of olive oil in same fry pan and then mix with pasta. This was an awesome throw together pasta and the kids loved it. I will definitely make it again.

250 Calorie...Quick Satisfying Lunch

This is my pick for a low calorie quick pick. I keep these on hand for when I just want a fast lunch. With only 250 calories you can still have a piece of fruit or yogurt if you like. I'm a kid and like to chop up the steak and mix all together like a mini shephards pie. YUMMO!

Italian Sausage Deep Dish Pizza

This was a quick spur of the moment meal. I had everything on hand and it was a huge hit with the whole family.


1 lb. Mild Italian Sausage
2 cups Shredded Cheese
2 cans Refrigerated Biscuits (I used Grands)
1 medium Onion sliced thin
Crushed Red Pepper
2 tsp. Minced Garlic
Olive Oil
Nonstick Spray
Italian Seasoning
Salt and Pepper
Ragu Garden Style Sauce (use whatever you like)

Heat oven to 350 degrees. In a fry pay fry onions until translucent then add Minced Garlic, Crushed Red Pepper, Italian Seasoning and Italian Sausage...fry until brown. I used 3 pie pans, spread biscuits on bottom and sides of pan, then brush with Olive Oil, spread half the cheese on bottom. Once meat mixture is done spread over cheese, then top with Ragu sauce and then the rest of the cheese. Bake in oven for 20 minutes and enjoy.

You could easily make this a special pizza night creation. Make all your toppings and layer in as each person wants...what a pizza party that would be. Everything was on hand in my pantry or freezer from coupon stock up. I don't even think I have $5 in this whole family meal...AWESOME!

Healthy Steps

Weight has been a struggle all my life. I can't remember when it wasn't ever an issue. As a child hearing about every little thing I put in my mouth and every little activity I did made me want to shut people (at least their voices) out. I don't want my children to have the same issues. Cameron never had to deal with weight until a few years ago when he started his psychotic medications. If anyone has ever had to take or knows someone who has had to take these medication you know that it can pack the weight on you. Cameron gained 60 lbs. on his first medication in this category in about 4 months time. We have battled it in so many ways. I think as a child you just don't see the necessity of worrying about weight and activity level. Well his weight and health was a huge concern and that was what led his doctor and me to take him of all medications and start from scratch so to speak. Any parent that deals with any ADHD or psychotic issue with their child will find that you need to do this every few years anyway to make sure they are really benefiting from the medication. I know it has reminded us of how bad things can get. You tend to only remember what recently happened and forget what it was like a few years back. This has been a trying time for the whole family, but we are committed to always help our children grow in the best way possible (even when it means we have to step into an uncomfortable zone). So now Cameron is only taking a medication that is a hormone replacement for his bladder (actually common) and a new medication called Intuniv (used for ADHD but also for impulsive behavior...since we have both), which is not a psychotic medication. His medication that was causing weight gain should be out of his system in about 2 weeks (can you believe a medication can stay in your system for so long). Well with Cameron you can't spring things on him and this summer has been filled with a lot of changes. I've just quit my job, got him in a Christian Home School, ordered his curriculum, planned his days, and worked on my lesson plans (all including Cameron, so it has been a slow process). We haven't conquered the weight loss as of yet but today was a first step to getting him on board. I found a wonderful site, seems like I heard about it before but never checked it out. Livestrong.com is where I found myself a few days ago. I looked around and it really reminded me of the Weight Watchers online site I had done a while back for a few months. Online is easy for me and Cameron is very interactive so I thought maybe I should think about this. After further investigation...IT"S FREE! Weight Watcher's cost $20+ per month (couldn't remember exactly what I paid) and this would allow Cameron to have his own login so he would be the one watching his food and activities instead of me asking (nagging). So today I set myself up and he set him up an account (had to fudge his year born so he could do this...of course I never told him, don't want to give him any ideas). So far we have logged breakfast and a few activities. I just want him to be aware that he has choices and has the power to control them. I will update every now and then on how its going. I know for the next few weeks I will have to remind him to go online and record things since new things are hard to make a habit but I am very hopeful. I know lots of people struggle with weight/health issues so why not join us and give it a try. I'd love to hear how you are doing.

General Tso Chicken

My family is a HUGE fan of Chinese food. One of our favorite dishes is General Tso Chicken. I've made it from scratch before and it took time and well I'm into quick dishes. I was in Walmart a while back and looked in the Oriental isle and looked around the sauces. The fact that I lived three years in Japan makes me a bit picky with certain flavors. I just can't help it. I found a sauce packet that I thought I'd like to try.

I of course didn't follow the recipe as it told me to but it really turned out good. Cameron had two helpings. This a definate purchase again for us.

GENERAL TSO CHICKEN

1 pkg Sunbird General Tso Chicken Seasoning Packet

1/4 cup sugar

3 Tbsp Soy Sauce (I used Bull Dog sauce, a Japanese sauce used in Yakisoba)

3/4 cup water

1 bag pre-breaded chicken pieces (makes this a quick and easy dish)

Directions: I put my chicken in the oven to bake following the package directions (use real chicken pieces not nuggets). When chicken was almost finished I mixed all other ingredients together in a sauce pan and brought to boil, stirring frequently (this doesn't take long). In a large bowl with lid I dumped all my chicken in it and poured my sauce over the top. Placed lid on top and shook until all chicken was coated. I served with steamed white rice. This was a real winner and I will definately make again. I had dinner on the table in less than 30 minutes. I love it!

Pork Chop Casserole

(from the Fix It and Forget It Cookbook)

Makes 4-6 Servings

4-6 Pork Chops

3 cups Water

1 cup Rice, uncooked

10 3/4 oz. can Cream of Mushroom Soup

1 tsp. Salt

1 tsp. Dried Parsley

1/4 tsp. Black Pepper

1. Saute Pork Chops in skillet until brown. Transfer to Crock Pot (I just put them in the Crock Pot, no since in messing up another dish).

2. Mix remaining ingredients and pour over chops in cooker.

3. Cover and cook on Low 6-8 hours or High 3-4.

This was a good recipe. I had planned to fix some carrots and peas for dinner but we ate it for a late lunch and decided we didn't need anything else. Cameron has a picky side and really enjoyed it. I only had one complaint...a bit greasy even though my chops were lean. I guess that is just pork for you. I hope you try and enjoy. I'm going to see what else I can find to fix for tomorrow. Maybe a dessert in the Crock Pot.

Yummy Snack

I have found the best snack for only 140 calories (3 thins). I have always been a fan of Fig Newtons since a kid. But my best snacks have a crunch to them. These little crisp cookies are so yummy. I decide to brew some French Vanilla coffee this morning and had 3 of these for breakfast and all I can say is I'm in heaven. I bought the Blueberry Brown Sugar (anything blueberry is my favorite) but the have three other flavors. They also are a whole grain product with 8g per serving. I will definately buy more of these and try the other flavors. I hope you get a chance to try them before they are all sold out or sad to say stop making them.

Thanks Brother!!!

I just had to make a quick post. Cameron hasn't really wanted to go any place for days. He even turned down the opportunity to go buy fireworks with my dad earlier today. This is a tradition that he has always looked forward to. Since I've seem him withdraw from social situations before I knew not to push him. I figured church tomorrow and dinner with the grandparents was enough for the weekend.

Out of the blue my brother Carl called and wanted Cameron to go see Transformers in 3D. I wasn't sure if he would go but he loves my brother and has a special closeness with him. After just a moment of hesitation he said yes an immediately got in the shower and ready to go.

Cameron waiting for Transformers to start.

I don't know if Carl knew that he was doing this household a huge favor. First, he gave Cameron a spark and got him excited about something outside the house. Second, I've had about an hour break so far and it was a wonderful feeling to know that Cameron was safe and I could relax. Third, I heard it was about a 3 hour movies so Kevin and I will have a couple hours alone time (that is very, no extremely rare).

Let me just say that I am thankful for every moment I have with both of my children. But just like all families, every parent needs a break. If you know someone that has a child with any type of special need, do them a favor and offer to entertain their child for even just an hour. You have no idea what just an hour can do do rejuvenate a person.

Windows of Life

Okay, I may not be an expert but I have lived a little life in my forty (yes, forty) years. It’s funny how people can face the same thing and get different results. That just goes to prove my point I’m trying to make here. People are so willing to make assumptions and they know exactly what is going on and what you should do about it. Hence they become experts!

It is so easy for anyone that isn’t walking, standing or washing your shoes to have an opinion about what is going on with you. From the outside you seem to have the perfect life; married, a house, 2 cars parked in the driveway, a boy, a girl, and two dogs (seems like every American family). For our family this is a blessing. We really aren’t much different from everyone else but I wonder if that is so for everyone.

Windows are a perfect example in life to me. If you are walking past a beautiful house that is well groomed and seems to be all in order…your first thought might be, “they got it made”. On the other hand if you were walking past a house that has a little paint pealing, grass past your ankles and toys thrown around the yard you might say to yourself, “they need to clean that up.” While these might not be the best examples, I think your get the idea of where I’m going.

From the “window” everyone seems to form an opinion, but no one (not even the fly on the wall they wish they were) really knows without walking through the door and staying a while. I’m not just talking for a cup of coffee or even dinner, I’m talking about a week or a month and really walking through the door (all doors in your house).

While I taught my parenting class this past year, my favorite saying to the class was, “What works for me may not work for you, and what works for you now may not work next week, next month or next year, and what works for one child may not work for the other, you have to find out what works best for you and your family situation.” This really should be how we live life. Willing to listen to others, try new things, but doing “only” what works for your situation regardless of what everyone else is doing.

Life is going to put you through many different trials, moments of laughter and tears but most of all it is going to create memories. Don’t let even the lowest situations find you creating a memory not worth remembering. Even the roughest points in my life have been worth remembering and talking about because I learned from them. I’m thankful for every moment in my life (even the ones I never thought I’d get through) and as I look back and even today I hear advice from many different directions.

Here’s my second lesson on how we should live our life. Don’t talk about your life (where it matters) to anyone that hasn’t been in a similar situation as yourself. If you are a parent with unruly children, don’t run to your friend that has never had children or even to a friend that is having the same issue but refuses to find a solution…I suggest you find the friend or mentor that had children with unruly behaviors but got a grip on them and has overcome. That’s the advice I need…Been There, Done That and Conquered! Don’t set yourself up for failure.

While the “window” in your life may make people think you have it all, or make them think you need to get it together, all that really matters is what you think and how you handle things. Don’t let the outside come in unless its sunshine. You deserve the best and nobody needs to understand why you haven’t painted, mowed or picked up the toys. When I see this I think they must be really busy, or maybe like me life happens, God first, family and then everything else. I’d rather look back on life and think I was there for all the memories, instead of just the ones that looked good. And for those who have the perfect “window” just be prepared, windows get dirty and eventually someone notices and has to offer that dreaded opinion.

So if you walk past my house and notice my grass is a bit high, the pool area has floats out of place and towels laying around, my garbage cans are empty by the curb and bicycles are in grass and start to form an opinion, just know I’m inside living life and creating memories with my family…we will get to that stuff later!

Planning or O.C.D.?

Yep, I'm a planner. No shame in it...right?!

I love the idea of having my days planned and knowing basically what to expect. When I look at my calendar I have every one's schedule in one place and thanks to Google Calendar I print it out and place it on the fridge for everyone to see. It allows me to keep track of Kevin's work schedule, Breanna's visitation, Cameron's Home School, Doctor's Appointments, family activities, daily menu, etc. (I guess you get the idea). It seems I can never plan enough. I was once told that my insistence on my perfection in knowing what is going on is just a clinical term called O.C.D. So...maybe it is. I think that if you are going to be O.C.D. then organization is the way to go. I happen to like going to bed every night knowing what tomorrow has in store. Of course practically speaking our life is really unknown. Cameron's situation is always changing and of course causing things to change on our calendar regularly. Planning helps us to keep him on track and allows us to help him remain comfortable with all upcoming events and changes before they happen. If you have a child with ADHD or lives with elements of paranoia this is an essential part of their life. So I may plan most of our day but it certainly isn't written in stone. Maybe they should classify me as Flexible O.C.D. Hmmm, I wonder if that is to contradictory.

Blessed

I was reminded yesterday at the doctor’s office how blessed I am. Of course I know this but it is a good thing to be reminded. Cameron and Breanna went for their school physicals yesterday and needless to say it was an adventure.

Both as always were concerned about whether or not they were getting shots. I wasn’t sure if Bre’ was but I knew it was a definite for Cameron. So I prepared them both and carefully prepared Cameron. He was very anxious and had paranoia, constantly talking about it until time to go and all the way there. He had worked out a plan that he would go first so he could get it over with. Well we all know that when you are at the doctor that it could take what seems to be a lifetime, especially when you have a child that is obsessed with the appointment already.

The first hour was filled with non-stop talk and pacing. Breanna didn’t seem to be effected due to iCarly playing (she loves TV). As we proceeded through the hour I thought to myself that I might want to remind Cameron that his doctor would be examining all parts of him. Well this immediately sent him into a high manic state and for the next hour I listened to non-stop laughter. As a mom, your child’s laugh is the most precious thing in the world to hear. Manic laughter is very different and as time goes on can seem a bit scary. Cameron tried to make light of his paper gown, the decorations on the wall, the fact the nurse said he would be getting a couple of shots and then decided four would be the number, all the while managing this with uncontrollable laughter. By this time I had a headache and from previous experience the best I could do was keep him from getting loud and disturbing others. Breanna however seemed extremely entertained by the situation. Cameron is her funny big brother, she has no idea.

Finally the doctor comes in and examines Cameron (we sent Bre’ across the hall). As we are reviewing his medical history and filling her in on the up to date happenings, she turns and looks at Cameron just shaking her head. She proceeds to ask Cameron if he knows how lucky he is (of course he knows, we tell him all the time). In her words she says to Cameron, “You are a miracle and lucky to be alive today. You should count your self blessed that you can have a relatively normal life. You can enjoy things and have fun doing them. You have arms and legs that move. You might have to deal with some messed up emotions and a few learning disabilities but we will help you with that as best we can. You have a brain that just acts a bit different that everyone else but you are a real miracle. Always remember you are blessed.” As I watched her sincerity and the facial expressions on Cameron’s face, tears came to my eyes. I don’t know if he needed to hear this but I sure did. God puts you in places to benefit you sometimes and after two hours of me trying to maintain my sanity he knew I needed to hear these words. I speak of my blessings everyday but everyone gets weak from time to time. After that Cameron calmed down and while we were waiting on the nurse to bring in his shots he said to me, “I’m driving you crazy right mom?” I told him “maybe a little but its okay.” He hugged me and returned to his seat for the dreaded shot session. No incident arose for it; he just took deep breaths and worked his way through it. Breanna came in and had her physical and of course talked non-stop with the doctor telling her everything she could fit in from Christmas up through our planned weekend mini-vacation. Yep, a politician or lawyer here.

I may have to sit up night after night with Cameron due to his issues but at least I have a lot to think about. But most of all I’m very blessed to have him and Breanna in my life. I’m thankful for every day, the good and the bad because I know I have a wonderful loving family and God that has me on his mind.

Caffine is our choice now.

Amoung Cameron's issues, he deals with ADHD like many other children and adults. He was diagnosed at a typical age in the first grade. We have had many stuggles with medication. I prefer no medication and I don't feel that all individuals that have been diagnosed with ADD or ADHD have to rely on medication. You should look at all options and choose the one that best suits your families needs.

In the beginning it was a struggle to find what type of medicine and dosage worked best. Over the years we have tried mulitple things on the market and in different dosages and combinations. We have also checked into diet adjustments. It is a trial diagnosis. Summer-time is the best to adjust diet and medications. It gives your child the flexibility to be his/herself. My concern was always how others were effected by Cameron's stuggles. I was concerned at what people might think at school, church, resturants, stores and of course family gatherings. I never wanted his issues to be obvious to anyone (we are and have always been very open about Cameron's diagnosis) or be any sort of disruption. We have modified his behavior greatly over the years and that, as he has grown has been the most effective way at controlling his day to day life issues.

About a month and a half ago we went to a new psychiatrist and he decided for my reasons to ween Cameron of his medication. I had been investigating articles about higher doses of caffine rather than taking a medically prescribed pill to control his ADHD. His new doctor seemed very incouraged that it might me an option to try now. So from that point on Cameron either drinks a Mountain Dew or coffee with breakfast and then another high caffine drink at lunch. I haven't been confortable with energy drink (Cameron keeps pressing me) yet. I think they might just be over the top for me and am thankful that it is all my choice as a parent. I have noticed Cameron is as settled on caffine as he is with his ADHD medication. I think as we move into our homeschool year I will be able to evaluate his focus better but it does look promising.

If you have the desire to try other options for ADHD in yourself or your child please consider this option. I'm not sure if it would have worked earlier or not but I'm very happy that we have tried it and for now it is the right choice for us.

A New Beginning...

Well this family is going through lots of changes and decision making. Some have been hard and some easy. Kevin and I wil be married five years this November and our family seems to have a really good balance going on. It has been an adjustment with a family of four on different schedules all the time.

Breanna will be in the 2nd grade this year and is really looking forward to going back to school to see all her friends. As every Summer we miss her during her visits to Alabama and she misses us. This year has really been interesting so far, trying to manage her feelings of not wanting to go see her mother. Time will tell how that relationship will go I guess. So sad sometimes it just breaks your heart.

Cameron, if you can believe it will be going into the 7th grade and has decided he wants to be homeschooled. He has been back in public school for two years and finds it difficult with his issues of socializing. This year he realized he was different, that added to his challenges. We are now on no medication, other than an herbal drink to sleep. We are taking it day by day and with God's help making it through.

I'm planning to dedicate time to blogging (yes Cindy, I just may set my alarm, lol). I'm not sure if everyday but I'll work something out. I want to try to expand my blogs to helping with special needs children, projects that make family time fun, savings for the family, homeschooling, organization, parenting, blending families, cooking, time saving, budgeting and most importantly God. I'm sure there will be lots of topics that come up as our life moves forward. I hope this blog is a helpful inspiration to anyone that reads it and allows our family and friends to keep up with our busy day.