Menu Plan Monday November 2nd

Breakfasts: Cereal, waffles, pancakes, scrambled eggs, granola, toast, bagels with cream cheese, oatmeal.

Lunches for Martie & I: Chicken noodle soup & crackers, PB&J sammies with raisins, grilled chicken breast salad, mac n cheese, pita's & hummus, grilled cheese & pretzels.

Dinners:

Monday~Baked Potato & Salad Bar

Bar: chili, cheese, sour cream, roasted chicken, dressing, croutons, sunflower seeds.

Dessert: Ice Cream

Tuesday~ Weeknight Ravioli Bake, Breadsticks & Veggie

Wednesday~ Meatloaf Mini's, Mashed Potatoes, & Corn

Dessert: Vegan Brownies

Thursday~ Crispy Parmesan Chicken Strips, Green Beans, & Applesauce

Friday~ Chicken Alfredo Pizza & Salad

Dessert: Cookies

Saturday~ Cheesy Hash Skillet & Fruit Cup

Sunday~ Make Your Own or C.O.R.N

Visit Organizing Junkie for more menu planning inspiration!

Menu Plan Monday September 14th thru September 20th 2009

Here at the G's, C's and the R's house we are impatiently.......ahem....patiently awaiting some of that fall weather everyone else seems to be experiencing. Fall represents so many wonderful things to me. A few of them are; leaves changing color, leaves falling and the reminder of jumping in piles of leaves as a child, Halloween, preparation for Thanksgiving and getting together in thanks with friends and family, 3 of my children's Birthday's and mine, prepping for Christmas....the decorating, getting in the spirit of giving, and so , so , so much more.

What does fall represent to you????

Monday Sept. 14^th:

Homemade Red and White Pizza

Salad

Chocolate Cake

Tuesday Sept. 15^th:

Artichoke and Diced Chicken Stuffed Shells

Salad

Brownies

Wednesday Sept. 16^th:

Cheesiest Potato Soup

Salad

Peach Crisp with Maple Cream Sauce

Thursday Sept. 17^th:

Pioneer Woman Lasagna

Salad

Garlic Bread or Bread Sticks

Friday Sept. 18^th:

Sweet and Sour Chicken

White and Brown Rice

Veggies

Ice Cream Sundaes

Saturday Sept. 19^th:

Eggplant Parmesan

Rigatoni

French Bread

Sunday Sept. 20^th:

Football Sunday Chili

Macaroni and fixins

Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

Don't forget to share with me what Fall means to you......please?????

With Love,

~T

Menu Plan Monday 8/24 thru 8/29

Well the kids are all adjusted in their 3rd week of school, and very happy with their teachers and their classes.

Naomi is finally in band playing Percussion, and Maddie started Orchestra today and will be playing the violin. Maddie is doing much better than I feared she would on crutches and trying to carry a backpack, and walk through campus. Her spirits are high and motivation even higher, making her mama a proud one.



Since the kids are working so hard at school and with extra curricular activities, I really want to reward them and treat them to something yummy every day. So I'll be attempting to bake some of their favorite goodies for treats or for dessert every night. I'm hoping to bring a smile to their faces and show them my love.











Monday, August 24
Cereal and Oranges
Leftover BBQ Chicken, carrot sticks and celery
Beef Pot Roast, Carrots, and Potatoes & Gravy



Tuesday, August 25
Oatmeal and Toast
Hotdogs and Macaroni & Cheese
Taco Salad & Corn Muffins (Recipe to follow)



Wednesday, August 26
Scrambled Eggs & Toast w/PB or Jelly
Grilled Chicken Salad
Asian Beef with Snow Peas & Potstickers



Thursday, August 27
Pancakes and Sausage
Grilled Cheese & Veggie Platter
Crispy Parmesan Chicken Strips, Baked Potatoes, Green Beans



Friday, August 28
Oatmeal, Peanut Butter and Honey Toast
Chicken Soup, Breadsticks
Homemade Pizza, Salad



Saturday, August 29
Homemade Cinnamon Bread, Fruit and Yogurt Dip
Popcorn Chicken and Homemade Fries
Tuna Casserole, French Bread, Green Beans



Sunday, August 30
Pancakes, Cheese Omletes, Hashbrowns
Crockpot Roast with Gravy, Mashed Potatoes, Bread of some sort




Don't forget to share your menu with me...can't wait to see what you all are eating this week.

Menu Plan Monday 6/22-6/28 2009

Finding that as we near the end of June, and our business is VERY slow....we have much more month than money. I have quite a few of these items on hand, and hoping to spend less than $75 this week.
****Link to recipes are in BLUE****





Monday:
Cheesy Sour Cream Herb Chicken
Mashed Potatoes
Corn

Tuesday:
Taco Salad

Wednesday:
French Onion Soup
Salad

Thursday:
Baked Spaghetti
Homemade Bread

Friday:
Honey Mustard Glazed Grilled Salmon
Baked Red Potatoes

Saturday:
Homemade Pizza ~ Dough Recipe
Alfredo Chicken Pizza recipe:
Your favorite pizza dough recipe (see notes above)
1 jar (1 lb.) of Alfredo sauce
2 pieces grilled chicken, shredded
2 cups Mozzarella Cheese
1 cup Parmesan Cheese
1 pkg. (8 oz.) sliced mushrooms
Make pizza dough according to recipe and roll out on a pizza stone or pan. Layer remaining ingredients in order given. Cook at 400° until brown and bubbly.
Source: menus4moms.com


Sunday:
Chicken Fried Rice


To see more Menu's go check out Organizing Junkie and check back here often to see if I can keep the challenge of $75 or less this week.


Make it a great day,
~T

Catching Up!!!!

I truly don't know where the time has gone....it's been forever since I've blogged!!

Our main focus here at the G's, C's and R house has been on saving money and holding on to it the best we can. This includes matching coupons to store ad's in order to get the highest savings possible. I belong to a program called
"Coupon Sense" that helps save time and energy in the matching. I also purchase 3 newspapers each sunday to take full advantage of the deals, for our size of a family.

Here was what our small trip to the grocery store looked like from last night:

Fry's

Prego Spag Sauce $2.17
FR Mozz Cheese Sticks $8.49
Digiorno Pizza $4.99- Coupon $1.00 off
Digiorno Pizza $4.99- Coupon $1.00 off
Digiorno Pizza $4.99- Coupon $1.00 off
California Pizza Kitchen$6.49-Coupon $.50 off (doubled)
Pushups $3.34-Savings $.85
Pineapple $1.00-Coupon $.50 off then doubled...so $1.00 (makes it free)
Pineapple $1.00-Coupon $.50 off then doubled...so $1.00 (makes it free)
Pineapple $1.00-Coupon $.50 off then doubled...so $1.00 (makes it free)

10 Items Sold
Total Before coupons: $55.68
Total Coupons: $22.22
Total After Coupons: $33.46

I would have not bought the pushups unless I had a coupon, but M did this shopping trip so I can't be too upset...but next time I'll make sure he has a coupon for those extras.

I'll have more savings to post today or tomorrow.

What are you doing to save money in your household??

Menu Plan Monday

From this week on for the next 10 months, I will be eating a bit differently. I came across

Jorge Cruise's Eating Plan that makes complete sense to me. Basically the plan has you eating/consuming 15 grams or less of sugar and 6 meals of carbs that are about 15-20 grams in each meal. I believe not only will this plan help me/you shed pounds, it will also make you so much healthier. Sugar is one of the main causes of immune system breakdowns.

I'm excited to regain control of my body, and to shed the weight so I can fit into my dream wedding dress in February.

So here we go!!!!

Monday: Chicken Parmesan, Corn, & Biscuits

Tuesday: Chicken Enchilada's & Salad

Wednesday: Grilled Chicken Salad & Breadsticks

Thursday: Homemade Pizza & Salad

Friday: Low Carb Taco Salad & Corn Bread

Saturday: French (women don't get fat) Toast & Hashbrowns

Sunday: C.O.R.N or Make Your Own

What's your meal plan this week??? Please share it with me.

Make it a great day,

~T

Mount Washmore is Melting....

Finally the laundry seems to be dwindling down.....from what I can see in the laundry room. The mountain has melted, but I fear little bluffs or hills are developing in other parts of the house waiting for me to discover them.

Let's not even talk about the clothes that have been folded and refuse to put themselves away!! Misbehaving laundry, say it isn't so. LOL

Ok what is my point here?? I have fallen off the train of laundry organization, the past 3 weeks due to my travels abroad.....hahaha, ok ok Las Vegas isn't so abroad, but it is foreign to most.

For the past 5 years I have been utilizing a system I had read about in a book called 15 minutes to organization (I think that is the name). This system has been a life saver keeping me on task, keeping mount washmore from growing too quickly or getting out of hand to the point I need grapling hook (do they use those anymore?? ha) to just get to the top of Mt. Washmore aka laundry pile.

Ok Ok....what's this system you ask?? Easy! Buy or Find Three different baskets, that you can label or that are different in color to keep track of which colors go in each bin.

So one bin is for (dirty) whites, brights, and darks. Keep these in or near the laundry room, and then call a little family meeting near the laundry room, and have a little informational meeting for your employees...ahem, I mean children and significant other. Tell your little people that there is a new system and manager in the laundry department and new rules apply. Show them the bins, explain what goes in which bin, and that ALL dirty clothes (when removed from dirty bodies) should come straight to the principals office....ahem, laundry bins.

You most likely will have to continue to remind them or go in their hidden areas (where construction hats must be worn) and free the clothes that are being held hostage.

Keep on top of your laundy.....develop a schedule of the days you wish to do laundry, or vow to do a few loads when you first wake up each morning, or whatever works for you. I promise this new system and organization will help you more than you know.

So get up, get going......get sorting and tackle your Mt. Washmore, and thank me for all the help :)

~T


...

Reason, Season, Lifetime.....

“People come into your life for a reason, a season, or a lifetime.When you figure out which it is, you know exactly what to do.When someone is in your life for a REASON,it is usually to meet a need you have expressed outwardly or inwardly.They have come to assist you through a difficulty,to provide you with guidance and support,to aid you physically, emotionally, or spiritually.They may seem like a godsend, and they are.They are there for the reason you need them to be.

Then, without any wrong doing on your partor at an inconvenient time,this person will say or do somethingto bring the relationship to an end.Sometimes they die. Sometimes they walk away.Sometimes they act up or out and force you to take a stand.What we must realize is that our need has been met,our desire fulfilled; their work is done.The prayer you sent up has been answeredand it is now time to move on.

When people come into your life for a SEASON,it is because your turn has come to share, grow, or learn.They may bring you an experience of peace or make you laugh.They may teach you something you have never done.They usually give you an unbelievable amount of joy.Believe it! It is real! But, only for a season.

LIFETIME relationships teach you lifetime lessons;those things you must build uponin order to have a solid emotional foundation.Your job is to accept the lesson,love the person/people (anyway);and put what you have learned to use in allother relationships and areas of your life.
It is said that love is blind but friendship is clairvoyant.”
~Brian A. "Drew" Chalker

Does this apply to any of you?? Have you recently found that the friends you had before you had children, have sort of drifted away? Or what about when your values, morals, views change~ have you found that old friends dissapate, and new friends enter?

I'm a firm believer that EVERYTHING happens for a reason. There are reasons, sometimes that we don't fully understand, things happen to us.

I hope you find peace in this writing and in your days from here out!!!

Blessings to you,

~T

Menu Plan Monday January 5th

Monday: Teriyaki Chicken, Rice, Some sort of salad, ice cream for dessert

Tuesday: Crockpot Beef Roast Potatoes & Carrots and Homemade Bread

Wednesday: Salmon with dill sauce, Brown Rice, Salad

Thursday: Tatertot Casserole (see recipe below), Tossed Salad, and chocolate pudding

Friday: Homemade Pizza & Fruit Salad

Saturday: Asian Beef Stirfry and Chocolate Shakes
The stirfry recipe comes from Bill Phillips Eating For Life recipe book. This is family favorite and we all gobble it down faster than we can say the name. LOL

Sunday: Make your own or C. O. R. N


Breakfasts:
Scrambled Eggs/Toast
Oatmeal & fruit
Pancakes & sausage
Bagels/cream cheese and yogurt
Cereal and OJ


Lunches:
Grilled Cheese and soup
Mac & Cheese with hot dogs
Pigs in a blanket
Baked Potatoes and Salad
Leftovers
Hard boiled eggs
Tuna Melts

This week we are going to start baking our own bread, and introducing desserts again as a fun thing for the family. We haven't done desserts in years, and I'm looking forward to this sweet treat for all of us. I'm not quite sure what we will do each night...I'm thinking about letting the girls decide and be in charge of desserts three or four nights this week. They will be thrilled to have this cooking responsibility.
Another adaption I am making to our meals is bringing back six small meals a day, as Body For Life recommends. I'm hoping to get back into the routine of working out six days a week and eating clean six days and having Sunday as my free day to eat what ever my heart desires.....I can't wait to see the results in 12 weeks.

Not sure what Body For Life is??? Check out the website...you'll be blown away!!!! I've been doing this off and on for almost 7 years and always get HUGE results. I just need to stay on the plan and then I'd be able to keep this weight off. Really the only thing that really prevented me from continuing on the plan was my pregnancies. I'm not having anymore babies, so I think this time around will be much more successful!

*****************************************************************

Tater Tot Casserole

Ingredients~

1 pound ground beef
2 (10.75 ounce) cans condensed cream of mushroom soup
2-1/2 cups low fat milk
2 teaspoons garlic salt
2 (14.5 ounce) cans French style green beans
1 (32 ounce) package tater tots

Directions~


1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).

2. In a large skillet over high heat, brown the ground beef and drain fat. Stir in condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic salt and green beans. Pour the mixture into a medium-sized casserole dish and layer with the tater tots.

3. Bake in preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until tater tots are browned and crispy.

Enjoy

*****************************************************************

I'd love to hear what you all think..and to see what you got cooking this week!!! Do you have a budget and spending goal this week??? Do share Do share!


Make it a GREAT week!!!!
~T

Happy 2009!!!!

Happy New Year to you and your loved ones!!! I hope & pray that 2009 is filled with prosperity, peace, hope, and joy!

I have to say, 2008 sure did fly on by, as our family achieved some very big milestones. Mykiah moved to Houston with her Daddy and Grandmother in February, where she is officially a Kindergartener. Mykiah also was tested for the gifted program (which we are awaiting results from). Allen Michael turned 16 in October, three of the kids came back home to be homeschooled, Allen Michael took on the Timpani in marching band (football season 2008) and now is tackling it again in Winter Drum Line, I finally found some pain relief in my lower back by getting facet injections into my lumbar spine....three injections seemed to do the trick, and have relieved about 50 percent of my terrible pain, and I decided to go back to the company that saw me through very hard times as a single mother in the late 90s and early 2000. It's an honor to be back with Mary Kay Cosmetics again.....life will never be the same again!!!!

As we say goodbye to 2008 and welcome in 2009, we are reflecting on what our goals were and what was achieved, and in 2009 we are creating a mapped out plan of what we want to do, see, and change to improve on the prior year.

Today I plan to map out our future...set goals, budgets, develop healthier living and eating plans, and remove the negativity and replace it with optimism and positivity.


What 3 goals do I have for the new year??

1) Adopt a Fresh Financial Start, as laid out by Suze Orman read about it here---->Suze Orman's 10 Tips for a Fresh Financial Start


2) Lose 30 pounds. How will I do this you ask??? I'm going back to living the Body For Life way.
In 2004, I took the 12 week challenge, working out 6 days per week, eating 6 smaller meals per day, and using Sunday as my free day. By following the steps laid out by Bill Phillips I lost 25 pounds and so many inches. To find out more about Body For Life click here ------->BFL .

3) De-Clutter my life and my home.
Time seems to get out of balance VERY QUICKLY!!!! In order to get control of my time, I have a Family Calendar that hangs right by my desk. I write EVERY activity, appointment, bills due, work schedule, etc on this calendar. Having a family calendar not only helps me stay organized, but it will show me if I am spending enough time with my loved ones. Along with having a family calendar posted I also have a Control Journal. Flylady introduced this form of organization to me years ago. I've never been the same since I created my own CJ. To read more about a Control Journal go to Flylady's website, you will thank me once you do.
To get more enjoyment out of my Space, I plan to eliminate things I don't need or use. My goal is to make my life, my time, and my home simpler. When we eliminate things we don’t need or use, life becomes simpler, with less stress and more balance.


Desire is the starting point of all achievement, not a hope, not a wish, but a keen pulsating desire which transcends everything. -Napoleon Hill


What goals have you set for 2009??? Please share!


From our family to yours....Happy 2009!

~T

Menu Plan Monday~ December 8th, 2008

Monday: Spaghetti & Meatballs
Salad & French Bread

Tuesday: Bean & Cheese Burrito's


Wednesday: Chicken Alfredo Pasta
Green Beans
French Bread

Thursday: Taco Salad & Corn Bread

Friday: Homemade Whole Wheat Pizza
Salad

Saturday: Matzah Ball Soup

Sunday: C.O.R.N

Peanut/Tree Nut Allergies and Sickle Cell Anemia

You are probably wondering how the two of these relate to one another~ well unfortunately our experience yesterday brings the two of these 'diseases' together.

Our day started out pretty normal for a family our size. Allen had an orthodontist appointment (can I here a cha ching cha ching cha ching? LOL) after that, I brought him into get his allergy shots. The day was slowly getting away from us.

After these appointments we drove home to quickly make some lunch and continue on with our day. Well I wish it would have been this easy. Unfortunately I was already exhausted and had a lot on my mind with upcoming injections and reuniting with my brother this weekend~ so when Maddie requested a Heath Bar (bite size) I nodded and agreed she could have it.

We sat and watched the Y&R ...but not 5 minutes after she ate the candy bar, she jumped up and started to cry with chest pains. I immediately begged AMR to read the packaging, and what do you know.....ALMONDS. Ugh. I said she could have a candy bar with NUTS???? How in the world did I agree to this, why was I so lazy to not pick up the bag and just read??? Why was I so consumed with my life rather than trying to protect my child?? These are the questions that remain with me and are teaching me a lesson I shouldn't have to be taught, because I do have common sense.

After hearing the Almonds in the candy, I brought Maddie over to the cupboard and gave her some benadryl and kept the epi pen close to me. I re-read the directions to make sure if I did have to use it, I would do it properly. I sat Maddie down and watched her like an hawk. She grew increasingly uncomfortable, and started to see red spots. At that point I loaded her into the truck and told Allen he must ride in the back with the epi pen. We had to pick up Michael from work and then we went straight to the ER.

We arrived safely and without using the epi pen to the ER and she was seen immediately. Oxygen level was in the 80's and she was getting very zoney and started to have trouble with her hand. We washed her hand thinking it was from the candy she touched...but that didn't help at all.

We were brought immediately back from the triage into a room by the nurses desk so she could be watched. As we sat, we saw Maddie's eyes start to swell and get very heavy, the hives started, then SEVERE-Massive Leg pain came out of nowhere. She said on a scale of 1-10 the pain level was at a 10. This was NOT related to the allergy reaction...this was something completely different.

The doctor asked to run a Sickle Cell Anemia Lab Test.....unfortunately this has to be sent out of the hospital to an independent lab. Sickle Cell does run in Terry's side of the family, and Terry has a step cousin that has Sickle Cell and has similar pain in her legs, as Maddie did. But from the information I've read, both parents have to be carriers of this hemaglobin S. I'm not sure that I carry it, since I'm caucasian ~ but we are testing her non the less to find out if in fact the leg pain is associated to Sickle Cell.

I pray that she was just having growing pains and that she is healthy.

Living with Peanut Allergies is hard enough for Maddie and for the family. If you haven't noticed, there are peanuts in almost everything.....peanut flour, peanut oil, made around nuts, or on machines that are in contact with nuts....the list goes on.

So that was our day...and our scare!!! Maddie is currently on prednisone, which makes her an eating monster~ but if you've seen Maddie, you know she can afford to eat as much as she wants. We are having her rest as much as possible and watching her closely.

I'm anxiously awaiting test results.

Love to all,

~T

New Study About Educational TV....

A study was released Wednesday found that high-quality educational programming for children is at its lowest level in nearly two decades.

Only one in eight shows billed as educational was rated "highly educational," according to research co-authored by a professor at the University of Arizona.

While I do agree we are well past the Electric Company and Seseme Street Era...I do believe having satelite or cable does open the doors for better or more educational programing that one might not get on network television. Also I believe that if we based this study on The Simpsons & Family Guy~ well no wonder we are lacking....are these even really "child" friendly shows, or are these programs not meant for educational purposes, but purely out of entertainment for the young at heart but on the adult side of life??

Some of the shows that are labeled Higher-quality TV are:

Eight shows for youngsters earned an exemplary rating for their educational content, according to a study on children's television:

Sesame Street (PBS)
Beakman's World (commercial)
Between the Lions (PBS)
3-2-1 Penguins (commercial)
Cyberchase (PBS)
Suite Life of Zack and Cody (commercial)
Fetch! With Ruff Ruffman (PBS)
Teen Kids News (commercial)

Now I don't know about you...I've seen The Suite Life with Zack and Cody~ can this really be considered educational??? LOL

Some of the programs I have found HIGHLY educational for my 2 year old (especially) and my 5 year old are:

1)Dora The Explorer- My two year old can speak about 10 words in Spanish, thanks to Dora, including counting to ten in Spanish. To me this is opening the door to diversity and teaching about other cultures. On top of learning Spanish, she has learned 3 sets of steps. For example 'Tree, Mountain, Grandma's House'

2)Go, Diego, Go-Children are learning more about animals in trouble that need to be rescued. This also is teaching humane treatment of all animals and being aware of our mother earth.

3)Little Einsteins (one of Martie's favorites)-Little Einsteins was designed to teach the target demographic art and music appreciation by integrating famous or culturally significant art works (usually, but not exclusively, paintings) and classical music (most typically from the Baroque, Classical, and Romantic periods) into the scenery, plot, and soundtrack of each episode. The show is also designed to encourage viewer interaction (such as patting their legs, gesturing, or singing along to help the characters succeed on their "mission"). ***Thanks Wikipedia***

4)The Backyardigans-In each episode, the show's five preschool friends—Pablo, Tyrone, Uniqua, Tasha, and Austin—rely on their vivid imaginations to transform their backyard into completely different worlds, in which they go through many sorts of stories and adventures. The time-frame of the show can range from a few hours to more than one full day, but in reality, the story always ends just in time for one of them to invite the others for a snack. The episodes focus on the stories as much as they do on music and dancing, with each one featuring a different music genre.

5)The WonderPets-A good deal of the dialog is sung, so the show has been likened to operetta or singspiel. A 10-member live orchestra performs each episode, sometimes including other instrumentalists skilled in music from the region to which the pets are traveling during the episode. Completing each episode takes 33 weeks from script to final delivery.

6)Little Bear (Tonja's Personal Favorite)-Most of the characters are moderately anthropomorphic animals, exhibiting both animal and human behaviors, but generally dealing with human problems and concerns......listen to the calming, soothing music as you watch the show....this is perfect for before nap time.

My list really could go on covering the educational programming in today's world, but I think you get the idea. The study does have some basis, but I if we are only studying Hannah Montana, iCarley, Suite Life, Sponge Bob, and then Seseme Street....of course we come to the conclusion there is little educational programming.....but let's dig deeper and find what really is available today.

I'd love to hear your thoughts on the matter~ please share.

Warmly,
~T

Grilled Steak Salad Recipe/For Dinner Tonight!!!MMM

Grilled Steak Salad~

1 flank steak (1 to 1 1/2 pounds)
4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
Salt and freshly ground pepper
3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
2 Kirby cucumbers, sliced into thin half-moons
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced into thin strips
One 10-ounce box frozen corn kernels, thawed
Chopped mint leaves
8 ounces mixed salad greens



1. Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush the steak with 1 tablespoon of the olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill for 5 minutes on each side for medium-rare; set aside. 2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the Worcestershire sauce, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, the garlic, the mustard and the remaining 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the steak and marinate for 15 minutes. 3. In a large bowl, combine the cucumber, bell pepper and corn. 4. When the steak is done marinating, place it on a cutting board and pour the marinade into a small saucepan set over high heat to simmer, about 1 minute. Slice the steak into 1/4-inch-thick strips and add to the vegetables. Add the marinade, mint and salt and pepper to taste, and toss. 5. Divide the greens among 4 dinner plates. Drizzle with olive oil and salt, then top with the steak strips and vegetables.

Source:
http://www.rachaelraymag.com/recipes/salad-vegetable-recipes/grilled-steak-salad/article.html

Menu Plan Monday for Week of October 27th

Menu Plan Monday for October 27th-November 2nd

Monday: Grilled Steak Salad

Tuesday: Spaghetti with Mozzerella Stuffed Meatballs & Salad (My Birthday)

Wednesday: Chicken, Biscuits 'n' Gravy Casserole & Salad

Thursday: Double Decker Grilled Cheese & Fruit

Friday: Mushroom & Garlic Pizza or Take out

Saturday: Turkey Mini Burgers with Warm Potato Salad

Sunday: Rice Cracker-Crusted Tuna with Apple Slaw

Recipes will follow tomorrow~

What do you have planned for meals this week?? Please Share!

A Master Schedule For Our Family

Most of you know that we have switched over and are mostly a homeschooling family. To be honest, I was praying that the kids would want to come back home and be schooled in an environment that was safe, exciting, and is encouraging rather than full of peer pressure and bullies.

I was a little overwhelmed to think that I would be teaching 3 different grades, including my autistic son in grade 1. But to my complete amazement the children (including Martie) have all adjusted well and been thriving beyond my dreams.

The only thing that was really wearing me down was the lack of our normal Master Schedule. We had a schedule while they were attending Public School, but I was a little late and over lax on making a schedule to fit our homeschooling life.

Today I decided enough was enough...no more procrastinating, and made my schedule. I have it printed and ready to go in my control journal, on the wall in my school room and in bedrooms for reference so their is very little 'forgetting'.

My stress level has diminished significantly and I'm once again thrilled beyond words to get started again tomorrow on our bright new future.

If you'd like to see a copy of my schedule, leave a comment or email me and I'd be happy to share my work with you.

Warmly,
~Tonja

The Political Weather

I wasn't going to write about politics on the blog, but after long thought I came to the conclusion, "why wouldn't I share my beliefs and thoughts on our running mates?"



Why I am no longer voting Republican~ if we take a look at the past 8 years under Republican control...and assume the 8 year reign has been idealitic. Can we take a look at what has come about??



Banks and large financial institutions are failing and/or falling apart.



A record number of homes are in foreclosure.



Gas prices are at record levels, and oil company profits are soaring.



Food banks are begging for more and more donations, in fear they won't have enough food to get them through the winter, for every person that is in need.



We're in a war that has absolutely ZERO plans of an exit strategy, and this just might continue on for years and years.



Infrastructure is crumbling beneath us....look at the condition of our highways, roads, Interstates.



The current administration has muffled out all scientist that have been warning us about Global Warming...now look at Canada, where they've just lost a chunk of ice the size of Manhattan....the ice pack is melting at an alarming rate.



Health services/insurance/treatment has NOT improved with the current administration.



Families are struggling~ and the answers they are getting from the Republicans just aren't working any more. We need......desperately need an administration who will pull in the best and the brightest and listen to them...and come up with the best solutions for the majority not the minority.



We need jobs, health care we can afford, and educational resources, peace, clean air and water, safe food and safe streets, respect for one another.



The very things we've been asking the current administration to do, and has failed....McCain/Palin are just the same hiding out in different bodies.



I believe that the Obama-Biden ticken can achieve these goals and inspire the country to do their part also.


Reason #1 to vote for Obama-Biden:
Because Joe Biden knows what the Bush Doctrine is.
In fact, I trust that Joe Biden knows many other things, no doubt, that I don’t even need to know he knows - including a whole lotta stuff that I don’t know.

Now, why do I trust that Biden knows these things and why do I care? I trust because he has worked at the national level of government since he was 29 - he is now 65. I care because we’re talking about the vice president of the United States of 300 Million Americans. Just in case no one else was noticing.

Any thoughts?? Comments?? Have you seen the Charlie Gibson and Sarah Palin Interview?? If not, google it.....you will see my reasoning for #1 reason.

Meal Plan Monday August 18th-24th.

I'm quite unprepared for meal planning this week. We are extremely low on funds~ due to the gas prices, and the extreme amount of doctor AND ER visits this past week. I think I spent $150 in the past week on gas alone. So that ate into my grocery budget. I'll do my very best to make due with what we have on hand and then only spend $30.

Monday Dinner:
Homemade Pancakes-vegan
Homemade Hashbrowns
Fruit cocktail

Tuesday:
Homemade chik'n nuggets-vegan
Mashed potatoes
Green Salad

Wednesday Dinner:
Mexican Lasagna-Vegan
Green Beans
Fruit

Thursday Dinner:
Burgers on a bun-vegan
Sauteed squash

Friday:
Tostadas
Oreo cookies

Saturday:
Spinach and Artichoke pie-Vegan
Fruit

Sunday:
Make your own -CORN (clean out refrigerator night)

I'll definitely share recipes later on tonight...when I get the kiddo's to bed.

Hugs!
Tonja

Our Vegan Journey

I'm entering, along with my 3 daughters and 1 son, week number 3 of a Vegetarian (Vegan) life. We took this on for a number of reasons, and I'd like to share those reasons, I hope you will read further.

1. To reduce the suffering of animals. You probably don’t want to hear about the horrific treatment of animals that are raised for food, even before they are slaughtered for our benefit. There are great amounts of suffering involved, and by cutting out meat, you are reducing your involvment of suffering upon animals. Wish to learn more? Read more here.

2. To help the environment. There are actually numerous ways that the meat industry harms the environment, from a waste of our resources (animals raised for food eat enough grain to feed the world), to a waste of fuel, to the pollution caused by their waste matter, and much more. Read more here.

3. To lose weight and become a healthier person. While as a vegetarian, we can eat extremely unhealthy foods and actually gain more weight. But if we incorporate healthy eating habits the weight can shed off of us and our health will greatly improve. A great book to read to get a better grasp on how and why a vegetarian lifestyle will increase your wellbeing and shed weight is "Eating to Live" to see more about this book click here.

4. Reduce chances of food poisoning. Food poisoning gets millions of people each year — and many of them from meat, which is a good breeding ground for harmful bacteria, especially if not stored, prepared or cooked exactly right. Cut out meat and you lower your risk of food poisoning (especially if you also cut out eggs and dairy, but that’s optional).


Do you want to learn more on how to become a Vegetarian? I have some tips that will make your transition easier.

1. Have a good reason(s). If you become a vegetarian just because someone else is doing it, or just for fun you most likely will not stick with the plan. Not because it's hard to stick to, rather a new lifestyle or habit takes motivation. It's something you really need to believe in, in order to stick it out...so have good reasons or convictions.

2. Study. Before you make the switcheroo, read up and study as much information that you can. Just like other new habits, you must read to understand and believe. There are tons of websites out there that you can access information on, you can borrow books from a friend, or from the library. A great place to start is at http://www.goveg.com/

3. Find good recipes. Collecting recipes that sound good or are a variance of the real thing will help you stay committed to your new life. No need to go out and buy a bunch of cookbooks...well if you want to that's ok too, but you can find recipes on the web or in books at the library. A few places I go to get some good recipes are goveg.com or http://blog.fatfreevegan.com/ and http://www.vegsource.com/

4. No red meat. If you can't give all, then start with removing red meat from your daily diet. Try eating no red meat, or just replacing one of your weekly meals with a vegetarian meal. And gradually work up to cutting all animal proteins.

5. Go all the way if it's at all possible. When I decided to become Vegan, I went all in. I'm not one that likes to just sit and slowly work on something...if you do that's ok too. While this takes a little more determination than the gradual solution, it’s not that hard, really. It should only take a few days to get used to it, and then you’ll have very little trouble after that. The only issues you’ll have to work out, once you’re used to going without meat, are things like eating out, eating at others’ houses, and other similar issues.

6. Avoid Junk food. you can be a vegetarian and be very unhealthy, by eating way too much junk. Being a vegetarian is not a license to eat junk food. Try to stick with fruits and veggies, whole grains, beans, nuts, soy protein, low-fat dairy and other nutritious foods for the most part.

7. Cook ahead. Another problem is when we don’t have any vegetarian food ready to eat, and so we resort to whatever is easiest (if we don’t feel like eating or are too hungry to wait). Instead, you could cook a big pot of vegetarian chili or soup or something, and have it in the fridge for when you’re hungry and don’t have time to cook. I just cooked a huge pot of bean soup...it turned out WONDERFUL. I have left overs of soup and rice....and can heat them up if I'm feeling munchie or whatever.

8. Have fun. Most of all, don’t make becoming a vegetarian be a restrictive, grueling ordeal. If you feel like you’re depriving yourself, you won’t last long. But if you feel like you’re doing something good, and trying out some great-tasting food, you’ll stick with it for much longer...hopefully for a lifetime. Now get out there and have fun and be healthy!!!!!

Some great sites to visit and learn more:

http://www.goveg.com/

http://www.vegsource.com/

http://www.scotthyoung.com/blog/2007/03/12/how-to-become-a-vegetarian/

If you liked this article, please leave a comment and let me know.

Homemade Household Cleaners

About 2 months ago, I decided I was growing tired of my children having an asthma attack after I did a deep cleaning in the house. Along with the asthma attacks, money was another deciding factor to start making my own household cleaning products.
I'm not sure why I've been spending money on toxic cleaners, only to hurt my budget and my children.

I've been using these easy to make cleaners for 2 months, with great results~ so I thought I would share with you some of the recipes to make your own. Once you start making them, you'll never want to go out and spend waste money on toxins again.

I have marble counter tops, and I don't want to save money but ruin them in the long run, so I found this recipe for Marble Cleaner:

Homemade Marble Cleaner

What You Need:
Baking soda
Water
A rag

What You Do:
Rub baking soda into the marble with a damp cloth. Then, rinse with water; towel dry; and you're done!

Why This Works:
Baking soda is a light abrasive and a natural disinfectant, so it's tough on stains and germs.

Benefits of Cleaning with Baking Soda:
inexpensive
no harsh chemicals
effective sanitizer
effective stain remover
effective deodorizer
won't etch marble

Warnings:
1) Clean up spills immediately to avoid staining or etching
2) Do not use vinegar, lemon or other acidic substances to clean marble – this can lead to etching


Homemade All Purpose Cleaner
(cost of 409 about $3/cost to make your own approx 31 cents)


Mix in a sprayer bottle:
1 cup white vinegar
1 cup water
2 drops of tea tree oil

In the kitchen, use the mixture spray to clean countertops, lightly soiled range surfaces and backsplash areas.

In the bathroom, use vinegar spray cleaner to clean countertops (except marble), floors, and exterior surfaces of the toilet.

For really tough bathroom surfaces such as shower walls, pump up the cleaning power by removing the sprayer element and heating the solution in the microwave until barely hot. Spray shower walls with the warmed generously, allow to stand for 10 to 15 minutes, then scrub and rinse. The heat helps soften stubborn soap scum and loosens hard water deposits.


Homemade Glass Cleaner
(Cost of windex about $3.49 cost to make your own about 89 cents for 65 oz)

Ingredients
1 cup rubbing alcohol
1 cup water
1 tablespoon vinegar

Using isopropyl alcohol and white vinegar together makes a quickly evaporating spray glass and mirror cleaner that competes with national brands. This can also be used to give a nice shine to hard tiles, chrome, and other surfaces.

Toilet Bowl Cleaner
(Cost of Lysol cling $2.99/cost to make your own approx 5-10 cents)

Mix
1/4 cup baking soda
1 cup vinegar
Pour into bowl and let it set for a few minutes. Scrub with brush and rinse.
A mixture of borax (2 parts) and lemon juice (one part) will also work.


See how easy this is???

Not only is it easy, it's rewarding!!!! Ok, so please share your recipes or ideas with me!!!! Lets save money together!