I knew it had been a long time, but didn't realize it had been almost a year. Time sure flies!
As I'm making some changes for 2012, I have so much I want to share and I want to try to blog again, hopefully with more success this time.
Although I have a lot I want to share, I am not feeling well today so I'll keep this post short and share the new way we make our sweet tea at our house. We have always made it the "wrong" way. Although good, it did have a slight bitter taste. I don't know anyone that does it Christy's way, but let me tell ya, it makes all the difference! Maybe this will help someone else with their sweet tea! If you don't already know, I am a southerner and we can not live without our sweet tea!! :) Enjoy the video and be sure to check out Christy's other great tips and recipes on Southern Plate.
Kristen
Monday, January 2, 2012
Monday, February 28, 2011
Menu Monday
It's Monday! I am trying again! Mondays are for fresh starts. May as well have good intentions, right?! :)
So, here's the menu for this week: It's a short week for me because my husband and I are leaving town Thursday for a mini vacation!! YAY!
Sunday: Mexican - with a gift certificate! :)
Monday: Baked Chicken Wings, Baked Potatoes, and SaladTuesday: Shrimp Alfredo and Salad
Wednesday: Trying a NEW recipe - Paula Deen's Beef Stroganoff
So, what's on your menu this week? Trying something new? Just share it!
Kristen
So, here's the menu for this week: It's a short week for me because my husband and I are leaving town Thursday for a mini vacation!! YAY!
Sunday: Mexican - with a gift certificate! :)
Monday: Baked Chicken Wings, Baked Potatoes, and SaladTuesday: Shrimp Alfredo and Salad
Wednesday: Trying a NEW recipe - Paula Deen's Beef Stroganoff
So, what's on your menu this week? Trying something new? Just share it!
Kristen
Thursday, February 10, 2011
DING! Time's Up!
Hello again! I am having a hard time finding time to blog. If I have the time, I don't have the energy or I have a headache (which I probably will be making a trip to the dr soon for those). But anyway, I WANT to blog and I WANT to share, so I'm going to try even harder to make the time to blog. So, onto the post for today...
I want to share with you how the timer helps us. When my kids were toddlers and they would need to pick their toys up, I would tell them that I was going to count to 10 or 20 and see how many toys they could put away. I would sometimes challenge them to beat me. For some reason, this always motivated them. It was a fun way to get the job done.
Even now, everyday, we have chores that must be completed so we now set the timer. (Counting to 10 or 20 just won't work anymore.) Sometimes, I will set it for 5 minutes and we will work together getting some things accomplished in one room. Sometimes, 15 minutes is what is needed, depending on the room and the job. I have charts for afternoon chores and the timer is set for 30 minutes. For some reason, this still motivates my kids and myself. I don't want chores to drag on forever and neither do they, so they look at that timer and know it will be accomplished before they hear the "ding".
I do the same thing for our homeschool. I don't do this for every subject. I don't time our Bible lessons or any of the subjects we all do together. The main subject I time is MATH. One of my children does not like Math, not because they aren't capable. She just looks at 2 pages and gets discouraged and says, "I will never get this done!" If I set the timer for 30 minutes, she has a goal then and she knows she can be finished in 30 minutes. If not, she has to finish during her free time. Yes, that's motivation!
Are your chores or homeschool days dragging, set that timer and see if it will help! It works for us! Thankful I can share with you!
Kristen
Even now, everyday, we have chores that must be completed so we now set the timer. (Counting to 10 or 20 just won't work anymore.) Sometimes, I will set it for 5 minutes and we will work together getting some things accomplished in one room. Sometimes, 15 minutes is what is needed, depending on the room and the job. I have charts for afternoon chores and the timer is set for 30 minutes. For some reason, this still motivates my kids and myself. I don't want chores to drag on forever and neither do they, so they look at that timer and know it will be accomplished before they hear the "ding".
I do the same thing for our homeschool. I don't do this for every subject. I don't time our Bible lessons or any of the subjects we all do together. The main subject I time is MATH. One of my children does not like Math, not because they aren't capable. She just looks at 2 pages and gets discouraged and says, "I will never get this done!" If I set the timer for 30 minutes, she has a goal then and she knows she can be finished in 30 minutes. If not, she has to finish during her free time. Yes, that's motivation!
Are your chores or homeschool days dragging, set that timer and see if it will help! It works for us! Thankful I can share with you!
Kristen
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Menu Monday
“Family dinners should be planned with as much thought and care as company dinners.”
~ Better Homes and Gardens Cook Book, 1946
I read the above quote a while back and loved it. I do put a lot of thought into our family dinners each week. I love to try new recipes for my family and just really enjoy being able to prepare meals for them. So here's what's for dinner this week:
Sunday: Out (Birthday party)
Monday: Lumpia, Broccoli, and Rice
Tuesday: Baked Chicken, Mashed Potatoes, and Corn
Wednesday: Jambalaya, Slaw, and Cornbread
Thursday: Fettucini Alfredo, Salad, and Garlic Bread
Friday: Pizza Night!!
Saturday: BBQ, Baked Beans, Slaw, Potato Salad, and Garlic Bread
So, what are you cooking this week? Just share it!
Kristen
~ Better Homes and Gardens Cook Book, 1946
I read the above quote a while back and loved it. I do put a lot of thought into our family dinners each week. I love to try new recipes for my family and just really enjoy being able to prepare meals for them. So here's what's for dinner this week:
Sunday: Out (Birthday party)
Monday: Lumpia, Broccoli, and Rice
Tuesday: Baked Chicken, Mashed Potatoes, and Corn
Wednesday: Jambalaya, Slaw, and Cornbread
Thursday: Fettucini Alfredo, Salad, and Garlic Bread
Friday: Pizza Night!!
Saturday: BBQ, Baked Beans, Slaw, Potato Salad, and Garlic Bread
So, what are you cooking this week? Just share it!
Kristen
Saturday, January 29, 2011
SOAP!
No, I'm not talking about the soap we use to wash with, but rather a method to studying the Bible. Until recently, I had never heard of the SOAP method. SOAP - S/Scripture, O/Observation, A/Application, and P/Prayer. I am using this method to study the book of James right now along with some other ladies from an online group. I will share more about that later. Each day I read a verse or two, I write out the verses (S). I write out my observations (O). Next, I write out how I can apply what I just read (A). Lastly, I write some things that I am praying about that day/ask God to help me with what I have just read (P). At the end of the study I will have written out the entire book of James in my notebook.
I can't tell you how much studying the Bible in this way has helped me. I have studied the Bible in various ways before. Honestly, a lot of times I would just read several chapters and close it, barely remembering what I had just read, let alone thinking about how to apply it to my life. I only wish someone had shared this with me sooner! I enjoy my reading everyday and when I am finished with the book of James, I plan to carry on with a different book of the Bible using the SOAP method as well.
So how do you study your Bible? Have you ever used the SOAP method? Remember to just share it with others...you never know who you may help along the way. Thankful someone shared it with me!
Kristen
I can't tell you how much studying the Bible in this way has helped me. I have studied the Bible in various ways before. Honestly, a lot of times I would just read several chapters and close it, barely remembering what I had just read, let alone thinking about how to apply it to my life. I only wish someone had shared this with me sooner! I enjoy my reading everyday and when I am finished with the book of James, I plan to carry on with a different book of the Bible using the SOAP method as well.
So how do you study your Bible? Have you ever used the SOAP method? Remember to just share it with others...you never know who you may help along the way. Thankful someone shared it with me!
Kristen
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Fighting the Flu
So for the last week we've been fighting the flu. It has not been fun to say the least. It all started last Wednesday when Mykenzie woke up with a fever, headache, and sore throat. She felt terrible and barely moved other than to drink water when I insisted. On Thursday, she was still feeling terrible. I was thinking it was a little "bug" that would pass in a couple of days. After talking to a church friend whose daughter had the same symptoms as Mykenzie and finding out she tested positive for the flu, I called the dr. Within a few hours and after a few tests (the dr was so convinced that she had strep and not the flu that he did the strep test twice before the flu test), Mykenzie had also tested positive for the flu. He prescribed tamiflu and gave me a lecture on the need for getting the flu shot. I've definitely added flu shots to the to-do list for next year. I think all 6 of us "tried" to get it, but thankfully some of our immune systems were stronger and fought it off. Friday was just a blur. Morgan, Nathan, Mykenzie, and I pretty much just slept off and on all day. We all felt pretty bad. By Friday night, Nathan and Morgan were feeling back to normal but Mykaela was running a fever. I continued to feel worse. Mykaela ran a fever through Sunday, off and on. Mykenzie was improving, but I insisted she rest periodically and continue the tamiflu. The weekend was soon over and I was feeling lousy. By Monday I knew I had an infection and called my dr, hoping they would just call me something in. No such luck. So I got us ready and made the 40 minute drive to the dr with 4 kids, told her I had an infection, she looked at me and said, "Yeah, you're right.", wrote me a couple of prescriptions and sent us on our way. (And of course collected that lovely co-pay!) Today has been a better day. None of us are still 100%, but definitely better.
I've been reading James and the whole time we've been going through this, I keep reminding myself to, "Count it all joy." It's hard to think that a trial is for our good. What good comes from the flu? I really can't say I have that answer right now. I have been reminded to be thankful for certain things. There was a time that we did not have health insurance and going to the dr and getting meds was financially difficult. When I paid those copays and filled those prescriptions, I remembered those times and thanked the Lord for the blessing of health insurance. I was also reminded that it could be a lot worse. I can honestly say this is the sickest I have ever seen Mykenzie and she is 10. What a blessing! I am also thankful that I didn't have to go to work or feel guilty for not going to work. I could stay home and take care of my children and myself. Although this sickness wasn't one that I could say gave me some time to read, gave me time to sleep...it did give me some time to think. In between coughing, sneezing, blowing, giving out doses of medicine, while I was laying down in this (rarely ever) quiet house, I did a lot of thinking and one day I will share with you what I thought about. Until then, if you are going through a trial, look for the good and count it all joy. Even the flu? Sigh...Yes, even the flu.
Kristen
I've been reading James and the whole time we've been going through this, I keep reminding myself to, "Count it all joy." It's hard to think that a trial is for our good. What good comes from the flu? I really can't say I have that answer right now. I have been reminded to be thankful for certain things. There was a time that we did not have health insurance and going to the dr and getting meds was financially difficult. When I paid those copays and filled those prescriptions, I remembered those times and thanked the Lord for the blessing of health insurance. I was also reminded that it could be a lot worse. I can honestly say this is the sickest I have ever seen Mykenzie and she is 10. What a blessing! I am also thankful that I didn't have to go to work or feel guilty for not going to work. I could stay home and take care of my children and myself. Although this sickness wasn't one that I could say gave me some time to read, gave me time to sleep...it did give me some time to think. In between coughing, sneezing, blowing, giving out doses of medicine, while I was laying down in this (rarely ever) quiet house, I did a lot of thinking and one day I will share with you what I thought about. Until then, if you are going through a trial, look for the good and count it all joy. Even the flu? Sigh...Yes, even the flu.
Kristen
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Wow, it's Wednesday!
I have been so busy. We had a week of snow which is unusual for us, I have been dealing with headaches everyday, and now I have a sick child. So, now it's Wednesday! Sometimes I wonder where the time goes.
On my list of goals for the year, was learning to coupon. I have been clipping for 2 weeks. Last week I saved over $60! I was very pleased. Last night I went to a coupon class. I really enjoyed it. I will share some of the things I learned another day.
I have also been doing a Bible study on the book of James. I am enjoying that so much. I joined a group of online homeschool moms from different areas and we share with each other everyday what the Lord is showing us through His Word. It has been very encouraging. I will share more of that another day also.
What do I want to share today? My menu...I know it's not Monday, but better late than never. Right?
Sunday - Showmars
Monday - Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad
Tuesday - Spaghetti (Thanks Mom!)
Wednesday - Pizza
Thursday - Jambalaya, Beans, Slaw, and Jalapeno Cornbread
Friday - Beef Stew, French Bread, and Apple Crostata (co-op cooking class)
Saturday - Lumpia, Rice, and Broccoli
Sunday - Spaghetti Casserole and Garlic Bread
My menu is pretty basic this week. Maybe I will share my spaghetti casserole recipe with you on Sunday. I want to make a display for my kitchen that shows the menu for the week. If I get to that project, I will share it too. As for right now, I think I will head to bed and pray everyone stays well all night. It's been a long day!
Kristen
On my list of goals for the year, was learning to coupon. I have been clipping for 2 weeks. Last week I saved over $60! I was very pleased. Last night I went to a coupon class. I really enjoyed it. I will share some of the things I learned another day.
I have also been doing a Bible study on the book of James. I am enjoying that so much. I joined a group of online homeschool moms from different areas and we share with each other everyday what the Lord is showing us through His Word. It has been very encouraging. I will share more of that another day also.
What do I want to share today? My menu...I know it's not Monday, but better late than never. Right?
Sunday - Showmars
Monday - Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad
Tuesday - Spaghetti (Thanks Mom!)
Wednesday - Pizza
Thursday - Jambalaya, Beans, Slaw, and Jalapeno Cornbread
Friday - Beef Stew, French Bread, and Apple Crostata (co-op cooking class)
Saturday - Lumpia, Rice, and Broccoli
Sunday - Spaghetti Casserole and Garlic Bread
My menu is pretty basic this week. Maybe I will share my spaghetti casserole recipe with you on Sunday. I want to make a display for my kitchen that shows the menu for the week. If I get to that project, I will share it too. As for right now, I think I will head to bed and pray everyone stays well all night. It's been a long day!
Kristen
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
The Ultimate Comfort Food...Chicken Potpie!
This is how I make my chicken potpie. We love it!
Crust:
2 1/4 cups self rising flour
2 COLD sticks of butter (cut into squares)
8-10 Tbsp ICE water
Place flour in bowl to mix with stand mixer. Add squares of COLD butter. Mix until mixture resembles wet sand. Slowly add water. Do not overmix. That and the cold butter are the key to a good crust. Divide dough into 2 balls and wrap separately with plastic wrap. Place in freezer to chill.
In the meantime, mix together:
2 cans cream of chicken soup
2 cups chicken stock
Frozen carrots, peas, and corn
Shredded chicken
Pepper to taste
Spray dish or pie plate with cooking spray.
Flour work surface and take one ball of dough out of freezer. Roll to desired shape. Place in dish.
Pour chicken and veg mixture on top.
Roll second dough ball out. Place on top of mixture. Make it as pretty or plain as you like. I had a helper with mine tonight. :-) Poke holes on top with a fork.
Whisk one egg in a bowl and brush on top to make it golden brown.
Bake at 400 for 30 - 45 mins until bubbling and golden brown.
Enjoy!
Kristen
Crust:
2 1/4 cups self rising flour
2 COLD sticks of butter (cut into squares)
8-10 Tbsp ICE water
Place flour in bowl to mix with stand mixer. Add squares of COLD butter. Mix until mixture resembles wet sand. Slowly add water. Do not overmix. That and the cold butter are the key to a good crust. Divide dough into 2 balls and wrap separately with plastic wrap. Place in freezer to chill.
In the meantime, mix together:
2 cans cream of chicken soup
2 cups chicken stock
Frozen carrots, peas, and corn
Shredded chicken
Pepper to taste
Spray dish or pie plate with cooking spray.
Flour work surface and take one ball of dough out of freezer. Roll to desired shape. Place in dish.
Pour chicken and veg mixture on top.
Roll second dough ball out. Place on top of mixture. Make it as pretty or plain as you like. I had a helper with mine tonight. :-) Poke holes on top with a fork.
Whisk one egg in a bowl and brush on top to make it golden brown.
Bake at 400 for 30 - 45 mins until bubbling and golden brown.
Enjoy!
Kristen
Give me the rolling pin!
Kristen
Monday, January 10, 2011
Menu Monday
We have enjoyed a lazy snow day at home. We played in the snow, made snowcream, watched a movie, ate popcorn, and now a big pot of chili is simmering on the stove. I will make a pan of brownines too. I love SNOW DAY traditions.
Here's our menu for this week.
Sunday: BBQ chicken, baked potatoes, and salad
Monday: Chili
Tuesday:Jambalaya, slaw, and cornbread
Wednesday: Chicken potpie
Thursday: Lumpia and wild rice
Friday: Date night
Saturday: Spaghetti and salad
Here's how I make my chili.
1 pkg of ground beef, turkey, or deer meat
1 green pepper
1 jalapeno (seeded)
1/3 onion
Minced garlic
Place in a pan to brown meat and saute other ingredients.
Dump in:
2 cans rinsed pinto beans
2 cans rinsed kidney beans
1 can rinsed black beans
2 cans diced tomatoes
2 cans tomato sauce
water to desired consistency
Add:
Chili powder
Frank's Red Hot
Salt
Pepper
Cayenne(optional)
1 Tbsp Cocoa powder
Simmer for several hours or place in crockpot on low all day. Top with crackers or tortilla chips, shredded cheese, and sour cream. Yummy!
Well, I'm off to make our bowls of chili!
Kristen
Here's our menu for this week.
Sunday: BBQ chicken, baked potatoes, and salad
Monday: Chili
Tuesday:Jambalaya, slaw, and cornbread
Wednesday: Chicken potpie
Thursday: Lumpia and wild rice
Friday: Date night
Saturday: Spaghetti and salad
Here's how I make my chili.
1 pkg of ground beef, turkey, or deer meat
1 green pepper
1 jalapeno (seeded)
1/3 onion
Minced garlic
Place in a pan to brown meat and saute other ingredients.
Dump in:
2 cans rinsed pinto beans
2 cans rinsed kidney beans
1 can rinsed black beans
2 cans diced tomatoes
2 cans tomato sauce
water to desired consistency
Add:
Chili powder
Frank's Red Hot
Salt
Pepper
Cayenne(optional)
1 Tbsp Cocoa powder
Simmer for several hours or place in crockpot on low all day. Top with crackers or tortilla chips, shredded cheese, and sour cream. Yummy!
Well, I'm off to make our bowls of chili!
Kristen
Saturday, January 8, 2011
My Reading List
So I have another list to share. This is my reading list for the year. Usually I just buy books that I see that interests me or maybe someone will suggest a book and I will buy it throughout the year. I've really never had a list, but I got the idea from another lady and decided to "copy" her. Glad she shared! This year I am trying to read more books that will help me to grow as a Christian, wife, mom, and friend. I started out with a list and then I went to my favorite used curriculum store and saw a couple more that sparked an interest and decided to add them. After reading them, I will post a review and let you know what I think of each one so stay tuned. Here's the list!
Bible
Sleep It Does a Family Good
One Million Arrows-Raising Your Children to Change the World
Redefining Beautiful
The Mission of Motherhood
Putting God Back in the Holidays
Intimate Issues
Intimacy Ignited
The Family
Raising Maidens of Virtue
Passionate Housewives Desperate for God
Grace is for Sinners
Bringing up Girls
Seasons of a Mother's Heart
The Joyful Home Schooler
The Relaxed Home School
Guiding Your Family in a Misguided World
The Five Love Languages
I am reading The Joyful Home Schooler right now and I am thoroughly enjoying it. It's just what I need right now. I am by nature pretty high strung. I like to have everything "just right" and when it's not, I'm not happy. One of my goals/desires is to relax with my family. I am training myself that it's okay if there are a couple of things on the kitchen counter, it's not the end of the world. Last night I reached a HUGE milestone. We had a family night with pizza and I actually RELAXED with my family, watched the movie and left a few cups in the sink all night. Now, I have to admit that as soon as my feet hit the floor this morning I went straight to the kitchen and took care of it. That may seem crazy to most people, but usually I wouldn't be able to do anything until I had everything "just right". I'm taking baby steps with God's help. I will keep you posted on what I learn through my reading.
So what are you reading?
Just share it!
Kristen
Bible
Sleep It Does a Family Good
One Million Arrows-Raising Your Children to Change the World
Redefining Beautiful
The Mission of Motherhood
Putting God Back in the Holidays
Intimate Issues
Intimacy Ignited
The Family
Raising Maidens of Virtue
Passionate Housewives Desperate for God
Grace is for Sinners
Bringing up Girls
Seasons of a Mother's Heart
The Joyful Home Schooler
The Relaxed Home School
Guiding Your Family in a Misguided World
The Five Love Languages
I am reading The Joyful Home Schooler right now and I am thoroughly enjoying it. It's just what I need right now. I am by nature pretty high strung. I like to have everything "just right" and when it's not, I'm not happy. One of my goals/desires is to relax with my family. I am training myself that it's okay if there are a couple of things on the kitchen counter, it's not the end of the world. Last night I reached a HUGE milestone. We had a family night with pizza and I actually RELAXED with my family, watched the movie and left a few cups in the sink all night. Now, I have to admit that as soon as my feet hit the floor this morning I went straight to the kitchen and took care of it. That may seem crazy to most people, but usually I wouldn't be able to do anything until I had everything "just right". I'm taking baby steps with God's help. I will keep you posted on what I learn through my reading.
So what are you reading?
Just share it!
Kristen
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
11 Goals for 2011
I decided to set goals for this year instead of just the usual resolution: LOSE WEIGHT. These aren't necessarily in order of importance. Being the person I am, I decided to have 11 for 2011. Just can't resist. :)
1. Read my Bible completely.
2. Find an area to serve at church.
3. Set aside more quality time with my husband.
4. Relax and enjoy my family more.
5. Make homeschooling more fun.
6. Read at least 1 "self help" book each month.
7. Eat/cook healthier.
8. Exercise more.
9. Become a better manager of my time.
10. Learn how to use coupons.
11. Learn how to "freezer cook."
So do you set resolutions or make goals for the new year? I'd love to hear yours!
Just share it!
Kristen
1. Read my Bible completely.
2. Find an area to serve at church.
3. Set aside more quality time with my husband.
4. Relax and enjoy my family more.
5. Make homeschooling more fun.
6. Read at least 1 "self help" book each month.
7. Eat/cook healthier.
8. Exercise more.
9. Become a better manager of my time.
10. Learn how to use coupons.
11. Learn how to "freezer cook."
So do you set resolutions or make goals for the new year? I'd love to hear yours!
Just share it!
Kristen
Comfy In The Kitchen: Chicken Scaloppini
This is what's for dinner tonight. Love this blog and love trying NEW things!
Comfy In The Kitchen: Chicken Scaloppini: "A short while ago I asked some of my friends to send me some of their favorite recipes. One of my friends, Katie, gave me her favorite chic..."
Just share it!
Kristen
Comfy In The Kitchen: Chicken Scaloppini: "A short while ago I asked some of my friends to send me some of their favorite recipes. One of my friends, Katie, gave me her favorite chic..."
Just share it!
Kristen
Monday, January 3, 2011
Cleaning out the Freezer
I'm taking this week and cleaning out the freezer and cabinets. I wanted to see what I could make with what I have and purchase a small amount to supplement with. So here's what's for dinner this week:
Sunday: Out to eat (Christmas gift cards are great!)
Monday: Roast with potatoes, carrots, and onions (from the freezer) and leftover peas (ladies Bible study night)
Tuesday: Lemon chicken with noodles and green beans
Wednesday: Taco soup (From a jar mix - another gift!)
Thursday: Pinto beans, cabbage, and cornbread
Friday: Pizza
Saturday: Undecided/ I'm not sure what my hubby has planned for the day.
Just share YOUR menu with others too. You never know...it may inspire someone to try something new!
Kristen
Sunday: Out to eat (Christmas gift cards are great!)
Monday: Roast with potatoes, carrots, and onions (from the freezer) and leftover peas (ladies Bible study night)
Tuesday: Lemon chicken with noodles and green beans
Wednesday: Taco soup (From a jar mix - another gift!)
Thursday: Pinto beans, cabbage, and cornbread
Friday: Pizza
Saturday: Undecided/ I'm not sure what my hubby has planned for the day.
Just share YOUR menu with others too. You never know...it may inspire someone to try something new!
Kristen
Saturday, January 1, 2011
Welcoming a new year!
It's hard to believe another year has come and gone! This has been an awesome beginning to 2011. I spent the entire day with my family, the most precious people in my life. I decided to do things differently this year. I typically cook a very nontraditional meal for New Year's Day, but this year I decided to be traditional. I am so glad I did! The meal was awesome. We enjoyed fried pork chops, macaroni and cheese, collard greens, black eyed peas, cornbread, and a chocolate heath bar cake featured on a blog I follow.
We also started a NEW tradition. I purchased a notebook this week. The cover reads, "I am Thankful". Today at our meal, we each wrote something we were thankful for today in the notebook. We will continue to do this the entire year and read it through on New Year's Eve 2011 and reflect back on the year's blessings. We were so excited as we wrote in the book that will be kept on our dining room table, as a gentle reminder to BE THANKFUL.
So as we begin this new year, my theme word will be: THANKFUL. I am going to try to look for the good in every situation, not dwell on what I don't have or what I need, but instead look around me and see just how blessed I am. "In everything give thanks..."
I hope you will all have a blessed 2011!
Did you begin new traditions or has God blessed you recently? Don't forget to just share it with others!
Kristen
We also started a NEW tradition. I purchased a notebook this week. The cover reads, "I am Thankful". Today at our meal, we each wrote something we were thankful for today in the notebook. We will continue to do this the entire year and read it through on New Year's Eve 2011 and reflect back on the year's blessings. We were so excited as we wrote in the book that will be kept on our dining room table, as a gentle reminder to BE THANKFUL.
So as we begin this new year, my theme word will be: THANKFUL. I am going to try to look for the good in every situation, not dwell on what I don't have or what I need, but instead look around me and see just how blessed I am. "In everything give thanks..."
I hope you will all have a blessed 2011!
Did you begin new traditions or has God blessed you recently? Don't forget to just share it with others!
Kristen
Thursday, December 30, 2010
Women Living Well Blog: Chicken N Dumplings made EASY!
Women Living Well Blog: Chicken N Dumplings made EASY!: "Janelle from Comfy In The Kitchen Says: 'Out of the top 10 comfort foods ever, Chicken N Dumplins just HAS to be on top of the list! This ..."
I'm Back!!
Wow, it's been a long time! Where did the time go? First of all, my grandma had a stroke. She is now living with my mom and improving, but juggling trips to the hospital with an already busy schedule left no time for blogging. Then came Thanksgiving. And last but not least, the BUSY Christmas season. Now it's time to slow down a bit and get back into a good routine. I'm going to ease back into everything and plan on sharing a lot of things soon. But for now, I must get this template changed. It's way past pumpkin season!!
Kristen
Kristen
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Coupon Crazy
So I've been wanting to learn how to really use coupons. It just baffles me how people can get a ton of groceries for practically nothing. I've taken this rainy afternoon, with the help of a Christmas movie to occupy the kids, to research this. I have found some interesting info on shopping with coupons. My favorite site is Southern Savers. She gives really good tips. My advice is to check out the site, but also watch the youtube videos she has on there. They are really good and packed with some good tips. She is very practical and doesn't advocate hoarding, just ways to save some cash.
First on the list for me this week will be to get a binder and some baseball card page protectors. Then I will begin to shop, really shop, with coupons. I honestly just want to see if I can do it. I also believe if I'm going to do something I need to give it all I've got. "Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might..." Ecclesiastes 9:10 So, if I'm going to try the coupon "thing", I am going to go coupon crazy!!!!
Why do I feel the need to do this? I don't have to use coupons to buy my groceries. Several weeks ago after checking out and spending $200 for a week's worth of groceries, I just became convicted that I was not being a good steward of the money God had given me. Also, who wouldn't rather save money, still eat good, and have that extra money to spend on other stuff??
After a little research, I realized my problem. Every week I make out a list of things I NEED. I just buy them no matter what the price. Now, I am not stupid. If I need laundry detergent and Gain is on sale, I buy that. I don't just stick to certain brands for most items. I do try to shop for what I need as best that I can. Occasionally I will see something that's not on my list but at a good price and decide to get a few extras of that item. Just recently, FL had a B1G1 free offer on noodles. I bought them. But, what if I would have had a coupon for the noodles in addition to the sale price??!! I learned today that I need to buy when it's on sale and stores have a 6 week sale cycle. If laundry detergent is on sale, I need to buy enough to last 6 weeks. The same goes for food products. Just buy what you need for 6 weeks. If taco shells are on sale, don't buy 5 boxes if you won't use them in 6 weeks. This is not to say if your family needs toothpaste or toilet paper and it's not on sale, that you do without. Don't be that crazy about it. ;-)
I also learned that I need to find the store with the best deals and best coupon policy. I'm thinking it may be Bilo for me. I have been a Food Lion and Wal-Mart shopper, but I am willing to change. This is one thing I'm going to keep researching.
Another thing I learned is printable coupons are accepted. I'm not sure why, but I was always afraid that they would be denied. I guess I just thought it was too good to be true. Some sources for coupons are http://www.coupons.com/, http://www.redplum.com/, and http://www.smartsource.com/.
What's really a good deal? B1G1 Free is always good and anything at least 40 % off regular price is a good deal. If it's 30 % off, wait, and watch for the price to go lower in that 6 week cycle.
I am excited to begin my coupon binder and start SAVING!
I will keep you all posted and I will continue to just share it!!
Kristen
First on the list for me this week will be to get a binder and some baseball card page protectors. Then I will begin to shop, really shop, with coupons. I honestly just want to see if I can do it. I also believe if I'm going to do something I need to give it all I've got. "Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might..." Ecclesiastes 9:10 So, if I'm going to try the coupon "thing", I am going to go coupon crazy!!!!
Why do I feel the need to do this? I don't have to use coupons to buy my groceries. Several weeks ago after checking out and spending $200 for a week's worth of groceries, I just became convicted that I was not being a good steward of the money God had given me. Also, who wouldn't rather save money, still eat good, and have that extra money to spend on other stuff??
After a little research, I realized my problem. Every week I make out a list of things I NEED. I just buy them no matter what the price. Now, I am not stupid. If I need laundry detergent and Gain is on sale, I buy that. I don't just stick to certain brands for most items. I do try to shop for what I need as best that I can. Occasionally I will see something that's not on my list but at a good price and decide to get a few extras of that item. Just recently, FL had a B1G1 free offer on noodles. I bought them. But, what if I would have had a coupon for the noodles in addition to the sale price??!! I learned today that I need to buy when it's on sale and stores have a 6 week sale cycle. If laundry detergent is on sale, I need to buy enough to last 6 weeks. The same goes for food products. Just buy what you need for 6 weeks. If taco shells are on sale, don't buy 5 boxes if you won't use them in 6 weeks. This is not to say if your family needs toothpaste or toilet paper and it's not on sale, that you do without. Don't be that crazy about it. ;-)
I also learned that I need to find the store with the best deals and best coupon policy. I'm thinking it may be Bilo for me. I have been a Food Lion and Wal-Mart shopper, but I am willing to change. This is one thing I'm going to keep researching.
Another thing I learned is printable coupons are accepted. I'm not sure why, but I was always afraid that they would be denied. I guess I just thought it was too good to be true. Some sources for coupons are http://www.coupons.com/, http://www.redplum.com/, and http://www.smartsource.com/.
What's really a good deal? B1G1 Free is always good and anything at least 40 % off regular price is a good deal. If it's 30 % off, wait, and watch for the price to go lower in that 6 week cycle.
I am excited to begin my coupon binder and start SAVING!
I will keep you all posted and I will continue to just share it!!
Kristen
Monday, November 15, 2010
Why I Love Mondays
Last week, WOW. That's all I know to say. It wasn't a BAD week at all, just didn't go as planned. So yes, you will see some "repeats" on the menu. I didn't even get around to blogging most of the week. My plan is to do better!! I hope LIFE cooperates.
Some people hate Mondays. I understand. It begins the work week for most people and signals the end of the weekend and fun. I just don't look at Mondays that way. I enjoy Mondays. I see it as a frest start. If the week before was crazy, I can get up Monday morning determined to make this week different and better. Last week, I had a plan and had good intentions on sticking to them. For some reason, I let certain things get in the way and my plan crumbled. That left me unprepared, running behind to things, and just frazzled. I hate being that way. I love being prepared and having things under control. The key is learning from your mistakes. If I learn from the mistakes I made last week, then they weren't made in vain. I definitely needed this Monday for a fresh start on some things. Check out this blog on Fresh Start Mondays.
Lamentations 3:22-23 "It is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness."
If you had a bad week last week or life just isn't going how you want it to, I pray this Monday will bring a fresh start for you and that you're able to reflect back on the past and learn from your mistakes. Just don't forget to share what you learned!
Here's the menu for this week!
Sunday: Roast with potatoes, carrots, and onions served with biscuits
Monday: Cajun shrimp alfredo with texas toast
Tuesday: Pinto beans, cabbage, and cornbread (Yes, I'm from the South!!)
Wednesday: Meatloaf, rice, and corn
Thursday: Cube steak with gravy, rice, green bean casserole, and deviled eggs
Friday: Homemade pizza
Saturday: Baked potato soup
Kristen
Some people hate Mondays. I understand. It begins the work week for most people and signals the end of the weekend and fun. I just don't look at Mondays that way. I enjoy Mondays. I see it as a frest start. If the week before was crazy, I can get up Monday morning determined to make this week different and better. Last week, I had a plan and had good intentions on sticking to them. For some reason, I let certain things get in the way and my plan crumbled. That left me unprepared, running behind to things, and just frazzled. I hate being that way. I love being prepared and having things under control. The key is learning from your mistakes. If I learn from the mistakes I made last week, then they weren't made in vain. I definitely needed this Monday for a fresh start on some things. Check out this blog on Fresh Start Mondays.
Lamentations 3:22-23 "It is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness."
If you had a bad week last week or life just isn't going how you want it to, I pray this Monday will bring a fresh start for you and that you're able to reflect back on the past and learn from your mistakes. Just don't forget to share what you learned!
Here's the menu for this week!
Sunday: Roast with potatoes, carrots, and onions served with biscuits
Monday: Cajun shrimp alfredo with texas toast
Tuesday: Pinto beans, cabbage, and cornbread (Yes, I'm from the South!!)
Wednesday: Meatloaf, rice, and corn
Thursday: Cube steak with gravy, rice, green bean casserole, and deviled eggs
Friday: Homemade pizza
Saturday: Baked potato soup
Kristen
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Baking Soda
Kristen
Monday, November 8, 2010
What's for Dinner?
I used to ask myself and my husband this a lot during the week. I hated not having a plan. It made for a crazy week and also a lot of money was wasted on takeout. I still have times like this due to being sick or a busy weekend, but I am more relaxed if I have a plan. Before I do my grocery shopping, I sit down to make my list out. I think about everything we have going on for the week. If we have a busy day and I know we will be away from the house, I try to think of a quick meal or something I can put in the crock pot that morning. I wouldn't plan to fry chicken on a day like that because I know I won't have the time or the energy to do it when I get home. I would opt for takeout if that was my plan. Even with a good plan, things do change during the week and I have to be flexible when they do. Learn to be flexible and use your plan as a guide. So here's our dinner menu for the week.
Sunday: Chicken spaghetti and caesar salad
Monday: Vegetable soup and cornbread
Tuesday: Fried chicken, potato salad, and baked beans
Wednesday: Baked potato soup and garlic cheese biscuits
Thursday: Cube steak with gravy, rice, lima beans, and slaw
Friday: Meatloaf, mashed potatoes, and corn
Saturday: Breakfast for dinner
I pray this inspires you to just share it. You never know who you may be helping along the way. I know I have been helped countless times and learned so many things from others that I have never met. I am so glad they decided to JUST SHARE IT with others!!
Kristen
Sunday: Chicken spaghetti and caesar salad
Monday: Vegetable soup and cornbread
Tuesday: Fried chicken, potato salad, and baked beans
Wednesday: Baked potato soup and garlic cheese biscuits
Thursday: Cube steak with gravy, rice, lima beans, and slaw
Friday: Meatloaf, mashed potatoes, and corn
Saturday: Breakfast for dinner
I pray this inspires you to just share it. You never know who you may be helping along the way. I know I have been helped countless times and learned so many things from others that I have never met. I am so glad they decided to JUST SHARE IT with others!!
Kristen
Saturday, November 6, 2010
Lumpia
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| You will need egg roll wrappers, carrots, cabbage, ground turkey, soy sauce, green onions, and vegetable oil for frying. |
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| Crumble ground turkey in pan and add soy sauce. Brown. Using your food processor, chop the carrots and cabbage. Chop green onions. Mix all ingredients together. |
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| Spoon a small amount of mixture into the egg roll wrappers and wrap. |
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| Fry until golden brown on all sides or deep fry. |
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| Enjoy!! |
Friday, November 5, 2010
Waste Not...Want Not
So I really love my Scentsy. If you don't have one, you should. I also love my creamy pumpkin candles from Bath and Body Works. I've gone through 3 of the large candles since the beginning of fall and I'm working on my 4th. There's always a little bit of the candle at the bottom that won't burn. Well, I decided to experiment. I stuck the candle in the freezer for a few minutes so that I could pop out the remainder of the wax. I instantly had a creamy pumpkin wax melt for my Scentsy. Just had to share my excitement!
Praying this inspires you to just share it...
Kristen
Praying this inspires you to just share it...
Kristen
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Chicken Spaghetti
Chicken Spaghetti
This is what's for lunch tomorrow. I add Rotel for a kick and fresh mushrooms to mine. Enjoy!!
This is what's for lunch tomorrow. I add Rotel for a kick and fresh mushrooms to mine. Enjoy!!
Homeschooling and Having Fun!
Early tomorrow morning, we will pack up a ton of stuff and head to our church for our homeschool co-op. After settling into homeschooling the first year, we began looking for a group that we would fit in with and just couldn't find one. I was interested in finding a co-op that offered some fun, educational classes. One of my friends and I went to a meeting for a co-op that was beginning. Neither of us were crazy about the location and after just a few minutes, we looked at each other and said, "We can do this." We started scribbling notes, left their meeting, and headed to the library to pray and plan our group. It wasn't long and the Lord sent us some families that were seeking the same thing and Heritage Homeschool Co-op was formed. This is our second year and we are still loving it. The Lord is continuing to bless and send more families our way. Tomorrow our children will take part in a Creation Science class, president's class, sign language, art, cooking for girls, dangerous boys class, and p.e. Most of all they will be learning while having fun!
If you are wondering what a homeschool co-op is, let me explain. The moms in the group get together to pray and discuss what their talents and gifts are. One mom may be gifted in art. Therefore, you will have an art class. It's a fun, affordable way to offer your homeschooled children classes and activities each week that you may not have time to do during a normal homeschool day.
Fridays are FUN DAYS!!
Praying this inspires you to just share it!
Kristen
If you are wondering what a homeschool co-op is, let me explain. The moms in the group get together to pray and discuss what their talents and gifts are. One mom may be gifted in art. Therefore, you will have an art class. It's a fun, affordable way to offer your homeschooled children classes and activities each week that you may not have time to do during a normal homeschool day.
Fridays are FUN DAYS!!
Praying this inspires you to just share it!
Kristen
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