tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-43925581385990224432024-03-13T14:00:58.682-07:00My Mama Always Said....Kristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16957641143826741674noreply@blogger.comBlogger192125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4392558138599022443.post-16800819217422328692015-10-22T08:10:00.001-07:002015-10-22T08:10:57.459-07:00Sweet & Sour Chicken (Freezer Meal)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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<strong><u>Sweet & Sour Chicken</u></strong></div>
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Put the following in a freezer bag:</div>
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1 C Apple cider Vinegar</div>
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<li>3/4- 1 Cup Ketchup</li>
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2 tbsp worshcheshire Sauce</div>
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2 tbsp soy sauce</div>
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1 tsp garlic</div>
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1- 1 1/2 C White Sugar</div>
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1/3 C corn starch</div>
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1/2 tsp salt (optional)</div>
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Depending on how many mouths you need to feed, add chicken. I normally do around 3 breasts to feed my family of four and have 2 servings for leftovers. </div>
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In a separate ziplock bag, put the following:<br />
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<li>1 can drained pineapple chunks</li>
<li>1-2 large Bell Peppers cut in large ~1" pieces</li>
<li>1 med- large Yellow onion cut in like pieces</li>
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FREEZE!<br />
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Put in your crock on low for 4-6 hours (or in my case 'keep warm' for 10 hours). about 30 minutes before serving, add the bag of vegetables to the crockpot. Set your rice to steam.</div>
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* Taste your sauce to determine if the flavor is right for you. If it isn't thick enough: Add some more cornstarch. Not sweet enough: Add some powdered sugar (dissolves better at this stage). </div>
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I made this one last night, and this is how it turned out:</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yjO_RhVC1yc/UI70_E_5RbI/AAAAAAAAAOw/PMSxXCTtsHs/s1600/sweetsour.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" qea="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yjO_RhVC1yc/UI70_E_5RbI/AAAAAAAAAOw/PMSxXCTtsHs/s320/sweetsour.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Kristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16957641143826741674noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4392558138599022443.post-63687286706604472252015-10-22T07:47:00.000-07:002015-10-22T07:47:14.084-07:00Chicken Gnocchi Soup<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<div class="h-4 strong" id="zlrecipe-ingredients" style="background-color: white; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: Raleway, sans-serif; font-size: 1.25em; font-stretch: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.96px; line-height: 1.2em; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
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<span id="zlrecipe-ingredients-list" style="background-color: white; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: Raleway, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.96px; line-height: 1.5em; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><div class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-2" itemprop="ingredients" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
Ingredients:<br />
1 Stick (1/2 C) Butter<br />
1/2 Cup Olive Oil<br />
1 Med-Large Yellow Onion, diced</div>
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1 lb Carrots (or small bag baby carrots), diced</div>
<div class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-4" itemprop="ingredients" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
1 bunch Celery hearts (around 4 cups), diced</div>
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2 TBSP Minced Garlic</div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.96px; line-height: inherit;">1 cup Flour</span></div>
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8 cups chicken broth (reserved from boiling)</div>
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3 cups half & half</div>
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1 whole chicken</div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.96px; line-height: inherit;">2 packages potato gnocchi</span></div>
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1 tray (or large bag) fresh spinach</div>
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3 tbsp Parsley</div>
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Parmesan or other white cheese of choice. </div>
<div class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-14" itemprop="ingredients" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
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<div class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-14" itemprop="ingredients" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<ol class="instructions" id="zlrecipe-instructions-list" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-stretch: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.96px; line-height: 1.5em; margin: 0px 0.5em; padding: 10px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<li class="instruction" id="zlrecipe-instruction-0" itemprop="recipeInstructions" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: decimal; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">In a large pot, cover whole chicken with water and boil/simmer for an hour or until done. Pull chicken out of water and let cool a bit before pulling meat off the bones. Strain and reserve broth. Discard bones & skin and set cooked chicken aside.</li>
<li class="instruction" id="zlrecipe-instruction-0" itemprop="recipeInstructions" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: decimal; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">In same large pot, melt butter and oil. Add the diced onion, carrots, celery and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper and cook until carrots are tender and onions are translucent. Watch closely and stir often.</li>
<li class="instruction" id="zlrecipe-instruction-1" itemprop="recipeInstructions" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: decimal; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Pour 1/2 the flour into the pot and stir into the vegetables, then the other half and stir again. The flour will start to form a slight paste around the veggies. Cook for a few minutes, then a few cups at a time, start adding the chicken broth. Let all come to a simmer, then add the half & half.</li>
<li class="instruction" id="zlrecipe-instruction-2" itemprop="recipeInstructions" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: decimal; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Add the cooked chicken. Simmer for 20-30 minutes stirring often so that nothing burns or curdles on the bottom of the pot. </li>
<li class="instruction" id="zlrecipe-instruction-3" itemprop="recipeInstructions" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: decimal; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Cook the gnocchi separately by dropping into boiling water and then skimming them out of the water once they float (about 2-3 minutes). Add them to the soup along with all the spinach. Simmer on very low until spinach is cooked in. Add parsley and more salt & pepper to taste. </li>
<li class="instruction" id="zlrecipe-instruction-3" itemprop="recipeInstructions" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: decimal; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Serve with fresh grated Parmesan cheese.</li>
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12-18 Servings</div>
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*For healthier option, substitute milk for half & half and oil for butter.</div>
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Enjoy!<br />
∞ Kristina</div>
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Kristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16957641143826741674noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4392558138599022443.post-38208970045995620562015-07-22T08:56:00.000-07:002015-08-13T08:02:54.742-07:00Eggplant Lasagna SoupI found a recipe for Lasagna Soup, but with my current desire to lean towards a vegan diet, I changed up the recipe. (No this is not vegan, but easily could be!) I did however healthify it and it was so good, I am now eating it for the third day in a row!<br />
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<strong><u><span style="font-size: large;">Eggplant Lasagna Soup</span></u></strong><br />
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*Note- I am horrible at measuring things when I cook- especially with soup, so you can doctor the amounts as you please :)<br />
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In a large pot put:<br />
-1 small diced onion and 1 tbsp olive oil- Saute until onions are translucent<br />
-Add whatever meat you like. (I used a carton of 97/3 ground turkey breast- though you don't have to add ANY meat or you could use seitan) Once the meat is fairly cooked, add the following:<br />
1 jar spaghetti sauce (I used Prego country mushroom)<br />
1 can tomato paste<br />
2- 14.5 oz cans diced tomatoes (undrained)<br />
2- 6-8 oz jars tomato sauce<br />
5 cups chicken broth + 2 cups water<br />
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Chop a medium sized eggplant to desired sized pieces and flash fry in a pan of olive oil (just until browned slightly or until starting to become translucent) The eggplant will soak up the olive oil, so do in a couple batches. Once 'fried' throw into the pot with the sauciness :)<br />
Simmer for a while then add 1 whole box of desired pasta ( I used rotini).... simmer until pasta is nice and done. If soup looks too thick, add some water to the pot.<br />
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For the cheesy dollop on top (this is like the BEST part)<br />
I put 1- 16 oz container of cottage cheese, a couple slices of muenster cheese, 2 tbsp Parmesan, 1 tsp garlic salt and 1 tbsp parsley in my blender (you could also use a food processor) and get it nice and smooth.... *note- you can totally use non dairy cheese, or even tofu in place of the ricotta or cottage cheese.<br />
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To serve- I used a mini scooper to put 1-2 tbsp of the 'ricotta' mixture on top of the soup then sprinkled with whatever white cheese mixture was in my fridge..... To eat: take a little bit of the cheesy dollop with each bite. This tastes just like lasagna but better! AND WAY LESS time consuming! This is now my 'go to' recipe when I have an eggplant :)<br />
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Enjoy!
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<script async="" defer="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>Kristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16957641143826741674noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4392558138599022443.post-26511077971673487602015-07-22T08:08:00.000-07:002015-07-22T08:08:11.177-07:00It's OK to speak up!<div id="fb-root">
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This was incredibly hard for me to post and I apologize in advance that my face was covered. Keep the mantra "Everyone has SOMETHING going on- It is not our human right to judge others."#ThisIsMyYSong #ToTheTop2015#ThisIsMyFightSong#TheYouniqueFoundationwww.youniquefoundation.org<br />
Posted by <a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=4392558138599022443#" role="button">Kristina Simpson</a> on Monday, July 20, 2015</blockquote>
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Kristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16957641143826741674noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4392558138599022443.post-79365102647169201302015-02-18T14:00:00.000-08:002015-02-20T07:39:34.119-08:00What am I afraid of? If I can help just one person....This is not my normal type of Blog post. I feel I have to tell my story (the whole story) in order for me to continue to heal and move forward. This is the only way I can get all of the information out without having to defend myself or get questioned in between<i> the whole story </i>(or forget any details<i>)</i>.....<br />
<br />
With the 1 year anniversary of my Dad's passing approaching this Sunday, and my body doing some funky things this week, I decided it was time to face my fears..... and BOY.... I have a lot of them.... The most persistent right now and rearing it's ugly face is <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hypnophobia">Somniphobia </a>, which I will talk about a bit later.<br />
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It's only been about 9 months since we even heard the words "Lyme Disease" out of the Doctors mouth. The first reaction was... "What the Hell?" Next was a mission to educate ourselves. After that... educate those we love and then everyone else. There is a certain amount of <i>Fear</i> that resides in all human beings relating to 'Spilling the Beans' or publicly speaking out. It is time for me to tell my story..... <br />
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<b>MY STORY</b><br />
Scott joined the Air Force in 1997, and was stationed at Elmendorf AFB in 1999. He had a pilot slot and was on top of the world, yet was troubled with the necessity to sleep up to 18+ hours a day. Scott decided to have a Sleep Study performed and was diagnosed with <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hypersomnia">Hypersomnia</a> (Excessive Daytime Sleepiness with <i>no known cause</i>). He then was medically disqualified from his Pilot slot and thus the battle began.<br />
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I met Scott, in 2002 in Anchorage, AK. I was 22, he was 25. We are going to leave out unimportant details of the last 13 years and just focus on the medical history. When I met Scott, he was a driven, motivated, exciting man with a love for everything. He was just tired.... It wasn't so bad in the beginning. A nap on the weekends for sure, but with a day job, you must move forward and take responsibilities seriously. As time went on, Scott would come home from work and fall asleep in the recliner in the living room until I woke him up to come to bed. Excessive sleepiness is not the only issue Scott had going on but it was the most prevalent. He also had bouts of depression, brain fog, rib and joint pain, and a chronic cough. Due to his 'diagnosis', from 2002- 2013, he was on and off so many different pharmaceutical cocktails to help his 'Sleep Disorder' - I couldn't even count how many or tell you what they were. Only the fact that they weren't working.<br />
<br />
In 2004, I started getting <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Migraine">Migraines</a> that would last a few days at a time and reoccur sometimes twice a week. I tried every over the counter medication I could get my hands on to relieve these pain monsters, finally finding that prescription <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eletriptan">'Relpax'</a> at about $50 per dosage (with insurance) was the only thing that helped. After several months of this, I realized I was going for broke with the constant need for this pain relief and there had to be a way to prevent it....... I heard about an anti-seizure drug called <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Topiramate">Topomax</a> that was supposed to help prevent Migraines. Brought it up to my MD, and he said it was worth a try! Started weaning myself onto it that next day. By day 3, it was time to up the dose a bit. The morning I upped the dose, I had what I can tell you was one of the scariest mornings of my life. I, am one of the 0.1% of people that have the 'rare' side affects. I went to work feeling odd. That is the only way I can describe it... odd. By the time I pulled up to my office, I felt maggots crawling under my skin. I sat in the parking lot with the door open and still sitting in the drivers seat with the car still on and freaked out cause I had 'locked my keys in the car'. Of course, I hadn't. I gathered my wits and went into the office. I sat down at my desk and started feeling the whole world close in on me. Like literally, I felt like I was in some kind of clear box and I couldn't communicate anything going on in my head. In a sheer moment of clarity, I dialed up the doctor's office and exclaimed to the nurse (who happen to also be my neighbor) "I need to know if I can stop taking this medicine! It's making me CRAZY!" The nurse said: "I'm calling Scott to come get you NOW. You need to go to the ER!" I hung up quickly and threw myself on the floor, in hysterics, having a full body panic attack. Scott picked me up and brought me to the ER where they said I had to let it get out of my system. Needless to say.... that was the last time I took Topomax. In 2006, By the hands of an Angel, I misplaced my oral contraceptives (which the pharmacy wouldn't replace until the next month).... I realized mysteriously my Migraines were gone. Like.... GONE. Something about the hormones in the pills was doing something bizarre to my neuron receptors in my head. I don't pretend to understand why, but I do know that was the last time I took oral contraceptives!<br />
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In 2006, shortly after the Migraines debacle, I started having severe Heartburn coupled with massive stomach pains, which I referred to as 'Gut Rot'---- like hot, sharp rocks were tumbling around inside my stomach. and in a ridiculously short amount of time, gained around 30 pounds. Scott and I had just gotten engaged, and I was preparing for our wedding. I felt like a bloated cadaver, ready to pop at any given moment and I didn't know what to do. I went back to my MD and he performed a sonogram of my torso and some labs on my blood. The diagnosis was 'Fatty Liver'. This basically meant that my Liver wasn't processing much of anything and thus why I had gained so much weight. I immediately adapted a 'Clean Diet' -If it had a label- it didn't go in my body. This didn't really solve anything. It was this point that I developed the Somniphobia - more specifically, 'Fear of Dying in my Sleep.' I literally felt like I was dying on the inside and didn't have great answers as to what was really wrong. I would lay down to go to sleep at night and could NOT turn my brain off. I would work myself into a frenzy and lay there with extreme anxiety until I was finally so exhausted I fell asleep. As I look back on this time of my life, I can recognize so so many Lyme symptoms that I was completely unaware of- I had no idea that these things were not NORMAL. <br />
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In 2008, Scott and I moved to Idaho. With a fresh start to life, Scott started doing extensive research on what in the world could be wrong with him..... Oh you can not even imagine everything that we have tried.... the money we have spent, or the energy that we have wasted. We went through the first year in Idaho addressing my 'Digestive Issues.' I had ulcers, fissures and a hiatal hernia. We wanted to have a child and could NOT get pregnant. The MD I found in Idaho suggested that I would likely be able to conceive if I lost 20 pounds. I had no idea how I was going to do it. I felt like crap and I didn't have the energy. I asked myself "How badly do you want to have a child?" I created my own special diet (based solely on what I was eating) and lost 17 pounds in January of 2009. I started feeling a TON better and by July of 2009, we were pregnant. I had an EASY pregnancy - except for the last 3 months where I vomited around 5 times a day because of the hiatal hernia. I delivered naturally and quickly and our son Tyler was born completely healthy in March of 2010. <br />
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2012- The Shit Hits the Fan. The entire year of 2012 is almost a blur to me because it was so evil. In April, I had a root canal that I reacted badly to.... Maybe no relation, but 3 days after it, I felt like I was having a heart attack. I was sent to the ER where they released me saying I had GERD. Get real. Reality: I was having serious heart palpitations from low blood sugar, and exhaustion because I hadn't eaten anything in 3 days. It was completely unintentional (not to eat). I could barely swallow water and was apparently subconsciously not eating. I googled some things, realized I had <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Esophageal_dysphagia">Dysphagia</a> caused by an <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Esophageal_stricture">Esophogeal Stricture</a> and called my Gastroenterologist to schedule a Dilation procedure. 2 weeks later, I had the Dilation and everything seemed fine in our world. My Dad was diagnosed with Cancer in the Summer. In July 2012 I started having random hip pain. The <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sciatica">Sciatica</a> was debilitating enough that I started going to Physical Therapy and continued that for about a year. The PT, would give me temporary results, however the Sciatica was more than just a pinched nerve. In November, I had an Open Septo-Rhinoplasty to repair a severely deviated Septum- causing problems such as reoccurring Sinus Infections, Regular Ear Infections, and clenching my teeth in my sleep which then was leading to headaches and also cracking my molars (yeah, I currently need 6 crowns because of this). .... Horrible recovery but the outcome... amazing. I couldn't believe how well I could breathe! Then in December, due to stress and well, mostly stress and overextending myself, I had another bout of Dysphagia. Another Dilation procedure on Dec 23rd and GOSH I was looking forward to 2013! <br />
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2013- More of the same. Day by Day, Hour by Hour.... Just get through life. One moment at a time. I received a call from my Dad on October 25th- 'Saying Goodbye'..... I got on a plane a few hours later to Alaska and spent the next week with my Daddy. The Cancer was spreading. All I could hope for was a miracle and to spend some time with him. Together with my siblings, we formed a family Christmas in Alaska, knowing it likely would be Dad's last. <br />
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2014- January 6th, Scott gets laid off. <br />
Sunday, February 16th, 2014- I received a call from my brother that Dad was in the hospital and 'wouldn't be released'. I called the hospital and had my last on Earth conversation with him. He told me that he thought this was 'It'. I told him I loved him and I was going to miss him and goodnight. We flew to Alaska that Friday morning. I got to see him one last time- rub Lavender oil on his feet, and give him a hug and hold his hand. He passed the next morning, February 22nd, 2014 at 11:11 am. The stress of my fathers passing put my symptoms into an outrage. I started having Full Body Vibrations that led to heart palpitations and anxiety. (I still, seriously, did not even realize this was happening.) I was all over the place. Couldn't concentrate, always just generally felt like garbage. Grief brought out a lot of this disease....<br />
June- Scott goes to a local Naturopathic Doctor to get yet another opinion. A Live Blood Cell Analysis is performed and after seeing Scott's blood, the Doc says: "Now I'm not a betting man, but if I was, I'd put ALL my money on Lyme." OMG... an answer! A real one! I can still remember the exact moment when Scott told me he had an answer. He said: "Well, we have an answer, but I don't know if that's a good thing.... Lyme Disease." We spent the next few weeks reading absolutely EVERYTHING we could get our hands on about Lyme. What a freaking MESS! No, this was NOT the answer we wanted! Through more research, we realized it was absolutely necessary for me to get tested as well. And wouldn't you know it. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Borrelia_burgdorferi">Spirochetes</a> in my blood too! How could this be possible? Oh the time we wasted treated what we didn't have! It was like our lives were all of a sudden flashing before our eyes! How could we manage this? There's no cure, no real treatment that works available and little to no education or awareness about it out there! We felt lost, hopeless, and destroyed. I called my Mom in early July and asked her to come help. I didn't even know what I needed her help for, I just felt like our lives were a disaster and I wanted my Mommy. She came right away. We heard about a place called <a href="http://www.lymestop.com/">LymeStop in Coeur D'Alene, Idaho</a>. We managed to get appointments in December for both Scott and I. A specifically memorable moment in Dr Smith's office.... We were going over my paperwork during my first appointment. There was a question on it that stated: How is this affecting your life? My answer was simply: "This is a life not worth living." I remember watching the doctor kind of shake his head sadly, because he truly understood what I meant. It was then that I started to cry uncontrollably. Not because I was sad, but because I knew in my heart that he was going to help. That his reason for being on earth is to help people affected by Lyme. <br />
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Do we feel better?<br />
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This is a loaded question. I don't know what 'normal feels' like. All I know is an absence of symptoms that I was aware of.<br />
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In a LOT of ways, the answer is YES. In other ways, we are worse. It can take up to a whole year to really feel the full affects of this treatment we received. Scott sleeps less and has a way better outlook on life. His Brain Fog and Mood has leveled. My Brain Fog and Hip Pain virtually disappeared..... until Monday. I feel like the upcoming anniversary of my Fathers passing is making me flare. My body won't work, my legs don't respond to my brain. I have such bad body vibrations, I feel like I am on the edge of passing out all the time. I can't concentrate barely at all, and the exhaustion I feel.... Can you imagine how much energy it takes to write a check? For a normal person... virtually none. For me? I feel like I just ran a marathon. <br />
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<b>REJECTION</b><br />
One of my fears is rejection. Ever since my husband and I were diagnosed with Chronic Lyme Disease, we have dealt with an array of 'Nay-Sayers', from old friends, to close family, as well as (of course) strangers. People who think they know more about this disease (that WE have) and think they have the right to tell us what is best for us and what we should do. This disease is enough on it's own to send someone to a Psych ward, but to then lose your support system on top of losing your mind, body, job, and seemingly everything else good in your life is unbearable. It is a constant fear that due to Lyme being so cliche, political, and in the 'unknown' category, that those in my life will decide it's too much of a hassle to care.<br />
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Do I want Sympathy? Hell, no. <br />
Do I want to inform and educate people about Lyme? You bet your ass.<br />
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There are 80 Million Americans at risk of getting Lyme Disease. Do you think you can escape it? Only 30,000 new cases of Lyme Disease are reported to the CDC each year, however that is highly underestimated. The lack of accurate testing and unreported cases of Lyme make the number to be reasonably suggested at approx. 300,000 new cases of Lyme every year.<br />
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It took Scott over 14 years to find an answer and he was actively looking for one. What about those that aren't looking for an answer? Like....me? That didn't even realize some symptoms were symptoms at all? That just feel like crap and don't know why, or don't know where to start? Or those that are treating a 'capture all diagnosis' like Hypersomnia or Fybromyalgia? Lyme mimics so many other diseases and the symptoms come and go as they please affecting any weak spot in your body it can. Don't ignore your body, and don't think for one second it can't happen to you. <br />
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The Future for us? <br />
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It is what it is. <br />
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One Day, One Step, One Minute, One Moment, One Breath at a time.<br />
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<br />Kristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16957641143826741674noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4392558138599022443.post-83437171069082228572015-02-17T09:23:00.001-08:002015-08-13T08:08:20.053-07:00The Monster Freezer Meal Swap<a href="//www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/" data-pin-do="buttonBookmark" data-pin-color="red" data-pin-height="28"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pinit_fg_en_rect_red_28.png" /></a>
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If you've been following this Blog for anytime now, or you know me personally, you will know that I'm kind of obsessed with Freezer Meals and anything having to do with making life more efficient. <br />
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I started a local Freezer Meals Swap group earlier in 2014, and after about 5 swaps decided there had to be a way to make it more better overall for those involved. After a bit of brainstorming, it was decided to do a group swap with everyone in the same place at the same time and contributing the same efforts and dollar amount towards the meals.<br />
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I posted on the group that the first 6 people to send me $100 will be guaranteed their slot in the upcoming swap. A few friends offered to help with the shopping and the hamster wheel started turning.<br />
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I made the first list of the meals I wanted us to prepare and the amount of people that would be involved. I decided that I would change the contribution amount to $150 so that we could make more meals with the budget. Everyone agreed and so with 9 Families committed @ $150 each, I had a $1350.00 budget to work with.<br />
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I created an excel spreadsheet with each meal, ingredients and cost all listed out (yes, I love excel.... I'm a nerd). Back and forth over 2 months time tweaking how everything would be prepared *down to the size baggie we would put each part into* and even a series of changing some of the meals completely to maximize the budget and time to prep involved.<br />
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Lots and lots and lots of planning! The hardest part was the planning for exact portions to make sure each meal would always feed 6 and that our efforts were maximized during the 'BIG DAY.'<br />
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In Advance:<br />
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<ul>
<li>Plan your menu & ingredients down to the seasonings. (I ran out of PEPPER!)</li>
<li>Know your exact budget, and try to leave around $100 left over for 'incidentals'</li>
<li>Retrieve monetary contributions from every swap attendee *before* you plan to shop.</li>
<li>Nail down a time (make that a whole day) that works for everyone.</li>
<li>Have no more than 2 people shop for ingredients. Find your most price saavy person and ask if they will be a shopper. If you are the main planner, you should be the other shopper. Weeks in advance, start watching sales.</li>
<li>*If* your menu and ingredients are set in stone, shop for dry/canned items as early as possible..especially if you find them on sale! Keep swap receipts completely separate from other purchases.</li>
<li>Block at least 30 mins- 1 hour of time for every meal preparing- The more people you have helping prep, the faster this can go.</li>
<li>Plan an activity for your husband and children to do for the entire day. The last thing you need is kids and men getting in the way of your creative freezer meal prepping genius.</li>
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The Day Before the BIG DAY:</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(Just my garage fridge)..... you need lots of storage</td></tr>
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<li>Frozen items and fresh products should be purchased the day before the swap. </li>
<li>Borrow as many crockpots (the day before) as you can possibly find. I personally own 2 large Crocks but borrowing from the other swappers and cooking everything at my house was easiest. At one point in time, I had 6 large crockpots cooking 35 pounds of Pork, and another round, I had all 6 cooking 40 pounds of chicken..</li>
<li>The night before the swap (not day), cook all the meat. Crock what you can (that's mostly everything) and assess what you can cook and store to be ready for assembly the next day. One thing you don't want to do is have an entire person dedicated to cooking meat all day long. Let the crockpot do it for you. Also keep in mind what is frozen solid and can't be crock-potted. For example. We had 75 pounds of Ground Turkey that was FROZEN SOLID. It had to be left out over night and cooked throughout the prep day.....THIS was lesson #1 :)</li>
<li>Ask the swappers to bring their BIG coolers to your house to store everything. They will also likely use those coolers to bring home their meals.</li>
<li>If there is anything that can easily be prepped the night before- Do it. We sliced ham, diced green peppers, and assembled the Broccoli Cheese Soup and the Potato Soup on Friday night.</li>
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THE BIG DAY:<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It started out pretty clean........</td></tr>
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<ul>
<li>Start early</li>
<li>Have a organized plan (I didn't)</li>
<li>Start with anything that needs 'prepped' before assembly and work forward.</li>
<li>Deal with the meat that was cooked overnight as soon as possible.</li>
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This was our schedule:</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The sheer amount of groceries was UNREAL.</td></tr>
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6am- As soon as I got up, I immediately pulled the Pork out of the crockpots, trimmed the fat and shredded it. The BBQ Sauce was mixed in. Then, I washed all the crocks and put the chicken in them (we figured we would deal with the 2 chicken meals later after the chicken was cooked).</div>
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7am- I picked up Moe so we could go pick up Bountiful Baskets and do the last minute shopping at Winco (Remember that $100 reserves in the budget? That was a VERY good thing.)</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Amanda and I getting things started.</td></tr>
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9am- Met Mollie at the house and started cooking the ground turkey & rice.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Angela slicing Onions.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This will be the biggest Cinnamon Roll on Earth ;)</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Group effort rolling this baby up!</td></tr>
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10am- Angela arrives and starts slicing onions & peppers. Moe works on slicing Carne Asada.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mariah portioning BBQ Pulled Pork. Mo cutting Carne Asada.</td></tr>
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11:30am- Jamie, Mariah, & Amanda arrive. At this point SHIZ gets REAL.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mariah mixing up casserole in what else but a 5 gallon bucket :)</td></tr>
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12pm-11pm- Pure mind boggling chaos, fun, and extreme challenge.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FVYr4t3RrWM/VON1pffD45I/AAAAAAAAECg/_Ey9JuUlFj4/s1600/1525670_10152272579046367_1850639890098118108_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FVYr4t3RrWM/VON1pffD45I/AAAAAAAAECg/_Ey9JuUlFj4/s1600/1525670_10152272579046367_1850639890098118108_n.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me & Moe rolling out some dough :)</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Angela stuffing pizza bread.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o629cly8By8/VON1sHNhQ-I/AAAAAAAAEDU/9UAE5huOn_Q/s1600/10440140_10152272579106367_8152745687695348003_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o629cly8By8/VON1sHNhQ-I/AAAAAAAAEDU/9UAE5huOn_Q/s1600/10440140_10152272579106367_8152745687695348003_n.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stuffing Jalapeno Bread.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3tiUpo3MYXI/VON1nVbPIUI/AAAAAAAAEB4/MSPMCDAXvRU/s1600/10670181_10154638333100472_2886517428698903142_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3tiUpo3MYXI/VON1nVbPIUI/AAAAAAAAEB4/MSPMCDAXvRU/s1600/10670181_10154638333100472_2886517428698903142_n.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jamie labeling bags.</td></tr>
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*Note- Make sure you have a 'Rain Man' in your group, cause when you are trying to divide 80 gallons by 45 times and put that into even cups and teaspoons....... things get crazy :)</div>
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11:15pm- We wrapped up the evening, took some pictures and patted ourselves on the back :)</div>
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Each of the 9 of us took home the following:</div>
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<ul>
<li>(2) Hawaiian Chicken</li>
<li>(2) Chicken Broccoli Quinoa Casserole</li>
<li>(2) Chicken Spinach Burrito Mix</li>
<li>(1) Philly Steak Sandwiches</li>
<li>(1) Beef Fajitas</li>
<li>(1) Bag with 15 single portions of BBQ Pulled Pork</li>
<li>(1) Bag with 13 single portions of Sloppy Joes</li>
<li>(1) Sweet & Sour Meatballs</li>
<li>(1) Plain Meatballs</li>
<li>(2) Potato Soup Base</li>
<li>(5) Marinara Sauce with Meat</li>
<li>(3) Broccoli Cheese Veggie Soup</li>
<li>(1) Tray of 22 individually wrapped mini Ham & Cheese Croissant Sandwiches</li>
<li>(4) Pre-Cooked/Pre-Seasoned Taco Meat</li>
<li>(2) Trays Brown Sugar Giant Cinnamon Rolls</li>
<li>(2) Pepperoni Pizza Garbage Bread</li>
<li>(1) Jalapeno Popper Garbage Bread</li>
</ul>
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<div>
324 Meals of 6 servings or more each. Plus there was leftover shredded cheese, precooked chicken, and sliced ham that was evenly distributed between everyone.<br />
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Average cost of $3.74 per meal.</div>
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The total amount of food made was 2016 portions at an average cost of .60c each.</div>
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This was a MASSIVE undertaking. I highly suggest doing something like this no more than once every couple months. The process going forward for myself is to get together with just a few other people and do a mini swap/prep every weekend or every other weekend. That way there is constant replenishment of the choices in the freezer. Even though we literally just finished up this swap, we are already planning a mini prep for this coming weekend of 4 types of meals with just 4 people. </div>
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To purchase the 'Plan' from this swap to include the shopping list and recipes, please e-mail me at kristinalupo@hotmail.com and in the subject line write: "Freezer Prep Plan."</div>
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I hope to hear your stories, lessons learned, and ideas from successful Freezer Meal Swap parties! </div>
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Till next time,</div>
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∞ Kristina<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our 11:30 PM Photoshoot!</td></tr>
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<ul></ul>Kristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16957641143826741674noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4392558138599022443.post-39572288137722855422014-08-18T14:15:00.002-07:002014-08-18T14:20:09.753-07:00Please Read & Share :)<object classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" height="338" title="Click Here to donate!" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="258"><param name="movie" value="//funds.gofundme.com/Widgetflex.swf" /><param name="quality" value="high" /><param name="flashvars" value="page=LymeBites&template=0" /><param name="wmode" value="transparent" /><embed allowScriptAccess="always" src="//funds.gofundme.com/Widgetflex.swf" quality="high" flashVars="page=LymeBites&template=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="258" height="338"></embed></object><br />
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I would like to ask that you share my families' story. <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5MtYCVaQuyw/U_Jtv_uNI2I/AAAAAAAADQA/fuCgG3CWuig/s1600/wblime12_4_1_1_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5MtYCVaQuyw/U_Jtv_uNI2I/AAAAAAAADQA/fuCgG3CWuig/s1600/wblime12_4_1_1_1.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a><br />
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If you would like to purchase an awareness bracelet, please e-mail me at: kristinalupo@hotmail.com<br />
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XOXO ~Kristina<br />
<br />Kristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16957641143826741674noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4392558138599022443.post-61232099522837312732014-05-21T15:08:00.001-07:002014-06-03T13:44:55.982-07:00Homemade Lip Balm<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AWK99M1zYnI/U44zsJAXc2I/AAAAAAAADPU/ZUlEqaaum7g/s1600/lip+balm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AWK99M1zYnI/U44zsJAXc2I/AAAAAAAADPU/ZUlEqaaum7g/s1600/lip+balm.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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Why can't I ever find the kind of Chapstick I need WHEN I need it? Never again.<br />
<br />
In my ever growing need to 'make' things, I decided my next feat would be homemade Chapstick. Being the fact that I am a <a href="https://www.youniqueproducts.com/kristinasimpson/business/presenterinfo">Younique presenter</a> and LOVE to give things away, I thought making a GOOD lip balm and coloring/adding shimmer with my <a href="https://www.youniqueproducts.com/kristinasimpson/products/view/US-1011-00#.U3y2iPldXIc">Younique Moodstruck Mineral Pigments</a> would be super fun and a great giveaway for my parties! So, after a bit of research and ordering all my fine ingredients from the fantabulous Amazon, off I went.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3nS7_w5q_iw/U30gxCBrpuI/AAAAAAAADN8/gRQBhhurh98/s1600/LB+Ingred.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3nS7_w5q_iw/U30gxCBrpuI/AAAAAAAADN8/gRQBhhurh98/s1600/LB+Ingred.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
First, I gathered the following:<br />
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1 lb Organic White Beeswax Pellets<br />
1 lb Organic Pure Mango Butter<br />
16 oz Organic Coconut Oil<br />
3 oz Dropper bottle 32,000 IU Vitamin E Oil<br />
Tea Tree Essential Oil<br />
1 pot of <a href="https://www.youniqueproducts.com/kristinasimpson/products/view/US-1011-00#.U3y2iPldXIc">'Sexy' Mineral Pigment</a><br />
50 empty lip balm tubes<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PHII1EF-5pY/U30g2SM-DWI/AAAAAAAADOE/gwiSyvacYHE/s1600/LB+Melting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PHII1EF-5pY/U30g2SM-DWI/AAAAAAAADOE/gwiSyvacYHE/s1600/LB+Melting.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
I turned on my crockpot to 'low' with a shallow amount of water inside.<br />
I put the ingredients in a large glass pyrex measuring cup.<br />
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5 tbsp Beeswax<br />
4 tbsp Mango Butter<br />
4 tbsp Coconut Oil<br />
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Using the 'melt' setting on my microwave, I did about 3 rounds of melting to get the beeswax completely liquid. <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qKrPYEk8CEA/U30hBSCW93I/AAAAAAAADOM/e-xum29p2ak/s1600/LB+MELTED.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qKrPYEk8CEA/U30hBSCW93I/AAAAAAAADOM/e-xum29p2ak/s1600/LB+MELTED.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
I immediately placed the pyrex into my shallow water bath in the crockpot and LEFT THE LID OFF... {If you place the lid on the crockpot, condensation droplets will get into your mixture changing the texture completely.} <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--jeizl1sMF4/U30hHbl3ZGI/AAAAAAAADOU/GHHcmMrZpnc/s1600/LB+ADD+SEXY.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--jeizl1sMF4/U30hHbl3ZGI/AAAAAAAADOU/GHHcmMrZpnc/s1600/LB+ADD+SEXY.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
I then added 1 full dropper Vitamin E Oil, about 25 drops of Tea Tree essential oil, stirred and then the entire pot of 'Sexy'.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZNdOsfgGRIw/U30ipWerYZI/AAAAAAAADO0/f4BOFJ-7KmM/s1600/LB+mixed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZNdOsfgGRIw/U30ipWerYZI/AAAAAAAADO0/f4BOFJ-7KmM/s1600/LB+mixed.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
The color was just amazing.......<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sR_kIRYcasM/U30h4jaTnpI/AAAAAAAADOc/ZkyopVjWVp8/s1600/LB+tubes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sR_kIRYcasM/U30h4jaTnpI/AAAAAAAADOc/ZkyopVjWVp8/s1600/LB+tubes.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
I got all my empty tubes ready and carefully poured the liquid into each one. I had to take a break after about each 10 to get the mixture to liquefy again- in the crockpot (yes, still inside the pyrex).<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gqQTLB9ud7k/U30h-dmpcsI/AAAAAAAADOk/OvKg4i-v7SY/s1600/LB+setting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gqQTLB9ud7k/U30h-dmpcsI/AAAAAAAADOk/OvKg4i-v7SY/s1600/LB+setting.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
I let these set for an hour or so, then capped and labeled.<br />
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This batch made 43 tubes of medium-soft lip balm.<br />
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**Sidenotes**<br />
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1) I chose T<a href="http://altmedicine.about.com/od/herbsupplementguide/a/TeaTreeOil.htm">ea Tree essential oil </a> because of it's incredible healing/antibacterial properties. I think next time, I will also add <a href="http://www.organicfacts.net/organic-oils/natural-essential-oils/health-benefits-of-lavender-essential-oil.html">Lavender</a> & <a href="http://www.aromaweb.com/essential-oils/peppermint-oil.asp">Peppermint essential oil</a> in addition or in place of the Tea Tree. I might even add a matte pigment or blusher to make it more of a lip stain...... :D<br />
2) In any homemade lip balm, there is a chance it can become rancid if you don't add a preservative. The <a href="http://www.ehow.com/how_5162285_use-vitamin-oil.html">Vitamin E Oil</a> not only does this {preserves}, but has many other amazing benefits including reducing free radicals and wrinkles -from the antioxidants.<br />
3) You can choose to use Shea or Cocoa butter instead of Mango butter. I chose Mango because of nut allergies. (Not because I have them, but many people do and I'm giving most of these away). I also like the smell a bit better than the others.<br />
4) Almond or Jojoba Oil can be substituted for the Coconut Oil. I just so happen to be a SUPERFAN of Coconut oil, so there wasn't any other option in my eyes :)<br />
5) The way this lip balm was made (just looking at the ingredients) I decided that it would be just as good of a salve as it is a lip balm. In fact, the next thing on my 'to-do' list is to find the large empty tubes (Like the fatty chapstick) to make a homemade salve. I have one more ingredient I will add to that.....I'll let you know what it is after it's done :)<br />
6) Next time, I plan on adding more beeswax. Just too soft for the hot Idaho sun!<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dSmcDTCjw50/U43dOdo--3I/AAAAAAAADPE/xwzATjWxB1s/s1600/Final+Balm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dSmcDTCjw50/U43dOdo--3I/AAAAAAAADPE/xwzATjWxB1s/s1600/Final+Balm.jpg" height="240" width="320" />Guess what?</a></div>
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If you make a purchase from my Younique website, I'll send you one of these as a FREE gift!!!!<br />
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<a href="http://www.getfiberlashed.com/">www.getfiberlashed.com</a><br />
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-Make sure to ask me what the current specials are and don't forget to attach the order to a party!<br />
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Enjoy!<br />
<br />
<3 Kristina<br />
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Kristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16957641143826741674noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4392558138599022443.post-39649288898690155262014-04-17T11:50:00.000-07:002015-08-13T08:03:24.031-07:00Start your own Freezer Meals Swap Group<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qrc2ejXcYHc/U1AM7N-ZmdI/AAAAAAAADMU/D3PXJ8OzYCo/s1600/SWAPgroup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qrc2ejXcYHc/U1AM7N-ZmdI/AAAAAAAADMU/D3PXJ8OzYCo/s1600/SWAPgroup.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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After the success of my massive freezer meals feat, I decided there had to be a better way to do things. I had some interest from friends on Facebook to get more information on doing Freezer Meals. I had heard from others that a 'Swap Group' works well. If I can do 1/20th of the work with the amazing outcome of easy straight from freezer to oven, 'from scratch' meals... You betcha.... "I'm in!"<br />
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A few 'Guidelines' to get you started:<br />
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<ol>
<li>Once you gather your group of people, get a 'family headcount.' My swap group has families as small as 3 people and as large as 10 people. The best way to make this work for the large and the small families is: The meals made to swap should feed 5-6 adults, 1 serving each. Larger families act as (2)- contribute 2 meals to the swap and take 2 of each of the other contributions. </li>
<li>*Important* Find out any SEVERE ALLERGIES. The only one in my group is Seafood. Pretty easy to work around. We personally as a group do not cater to Gluten-Free, Vegan, or Picky Eaters. I do have to say that so far, we have had some pretty amazing recipes come out of these ladies' kitchens! </li>
<li>Choose a swap location that is somewhat central for all swappers and has easily accessible parking for EVERYONE to park in one straight line.</li>
<li>Choose a time to swap and ask that everyone is 10 mins early so that swapping can commence on time and no one gets missed.</li>
<li>If there happens to be someone not show up or cancel last minute, we take the contributions that would have gone to them and donate to a needy family.</li>
<li>More than 15 people/ Meals to make is too much</li>
<li>Between 5-6 weeks between each swap is just about perfect.</li>
</ol>
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Here are some highlights from our first swap (2/16/2014) and the recipes to each contribution:<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oEw2T3tNzNs/U1AQMtkF29I/AAAAAAAADMg/AIQMLIiaXWM/s1600/SpaghettiStromboli.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oEw2T3tNzNs/U1AQMtkF29I/AAAAAAAADMg/AIQMLIiaXWM/s1600/SpaghettiStromboli.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Spaghetti-Pie-II/Detail.aspx?event8=1&prop24=SR_Thumb&e11=spaghetti%20pie&e8=Quick%20Search&event10=1&e7=Recipe&scale=8&ismetric=0">Spaghetti Pie</a> (In the round tin on the left)<br />
Contributed by: Angela Hatsfield<br />
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Instructions from freezer to table: The day before serving, remove pasta dish from the freezer. Remove foil, and place in a lightly greased 13- x 9-inch baking dish. Cover and thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Bake as directed. (Note: Pasta dish may also be baked frozen. Plan to double the baking times.)<br />
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<a href="http://www.food.com/recipe/stromboli-54691?scaleto=8&mode=null&st=true">Homemade Stromboli</a> (in the cooler on the right) Contributed by: Angela Hatsfield<br />
From freezer to table: Remove the foil wrap and thaw your plastic-wrapped Stromboli in the refrigerator for 24 hours before baking. Keeping the plastic wrap on the Stromboli while thawing prevents the bread and interior from drying. Paint the egg wash over the thawed Stromboli bread immediately before baking with a basting brush. Bake your Stromboli dish in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 20 to 30 minutes or until the top of the bread is golden brown.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GPD3MB0Zz9E/U1AR63nMZRI/AAAAAAAADMs/IWGR5ZUyHOI/s1600/PorkRoastVeggies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GPD3MB0Zz9E/U1AR63nMZRI/AAAAAAAADMs/IWGR5ZUyHOI/s1600/PorkRoastVeggies.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<u style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.44444465637207px; line-height: 21.46666717529297px;">CROCK POT PORK ROAST WITH VEGETABLES</u><br />
Contributed by: Nichole Boehland<br />
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1 med. pork roast<span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline;"><br />6 sm. carrots, sliced diagonally or a couple handfuls of baby carrots<br />3-6 red potatoes sliced in half<br />3-5 cloves of garlic<br />1 envelope of Lipton Onion soup mix<br />1 pkg. pork gravy mix<br />1 1/2-2 c. water<br />Salt and pepper, to taste, Garlic powder</span></div>
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Salt and pepper pork roast. Slice 2-3 openings in the top of the roast insert garlic cloves. Put prepared vegetables around meat; sprinkle with garlic powder. Mix gravy mix, onion soup mix, water, and pour over vegetables. Cook for about 8-10 hours on low in crock pot or about 2 1/2 hours at 350 degrees.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pBCeBEPtu4E/U1ASlH4PnBI/AAAAAAAADM0/zMM4YsjRmZE/s1600/ChicTortSoup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pBCeBEPtu4E/U1ASlH4PnBI/AAAAAAAADM0/zMM4YsjRmZE/s1600/ChicTortSoup.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2011/01/chicken-tortilla-soup/">Chicken Tortilla Soup</a></div>
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Contributed by Cristi Hall</div>
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Thaw/Heat then garnish.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GaVpW9hhYJc/U1ATE6Syo_I/AAAAAAAADM8/IQXP2aN8o_w/s1600/ShephardsPieBeefEnchiladas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GaVpW9hhYJc/U1ATE6Syo_I/AAAAAAAADM8/IQXP2aN8o_w/s1600/ShephardsPieBeefEnchiladas.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<u>Shepherd's Pie</u><br />
Contributed by Kristen Morton<br />
Mash 7-8 potatoes w/ butter salt, pepper, and milk- set aside<br />
Brown 1 lb. hamburger. w/ one med. onion, salt, pepper, garlic, and onion salt<br />
Drain off fat, add: 8 oz can tomato sauce 1/2 C ketchup 1/2 C brown sugar 1/2 C grated cheddar cheese 1 can green beans<br />
simmer together @ 5 min<br />
Butter casserole dish, line w/ mashed potatoes (reserve @ 1 1/2 cups for top)<br />
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Pour on hamburger mixture. Top w/ leftover potatoes. Sprinkle w/ 1/2 cup cheddar cheese. Sprinkle w/ salt. Bake 350 for 25 min. **Freezer to table: Thaw overnight before baking.<br />
<u>Shredded Beef Enchiladas</u> Contributed by Kristen Morton<br />
* 3 pounds beef chuck roast * 1/4 cup water * 1 1/2 cups beef broth * 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar * 2 tablespoons chili powder * 1 tablespoon ground cumin * 1 large onion, chopped * 2 (4 ounce) cans chopped green chile peppers * 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour * 2 cups sour cream * 3 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided * 1 cup oil for frying * 20 (6 inch) flour or corn tortillas<br />
Directions<br />
1. Place roast in a large saucepan that has a tight-fitting lid. Pour in water, cover, and simmer on low for 30 minutes. Increase heat to medium/high, and brown the roast on all sides. Once the water has boiled away, pour in the beef broth, vinegar, chili powder and 1 tablespoon of cumin. Cover tightly and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 1 1/2 to 2 hours or until the beef falls apart when you try to pick it up. Shred the beef, using 2 forks or your fingers. Place shredded beef back into the saucepan with all the juices, and let cool to room temperature.<br />
2. In a large skillet, saute the onion until just soft, not browned. Mix in flour and green chilies. Stir constantly for 2 minutes to cook the flour taste out. Stir in sour cream and 2 cups of Monterey Jack cheese. Cook on low for 10 minutes, stirring often, until the cheese is all melted and mixed. Set aside and let cool.<br />
3. In a large heavy skillet, heat the olive oil. Using tongs dip the tortillas, one at a time, into the oil for 30 seconds each side. Drain on paper towels.<br />
4. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Spread 4 tablespoons of sour cream mixture down the center of the tortilla. Top with about the same amount of beef. Roll up and place seam side down in one or two 8x11 inch baking dish. Repeat for each tortilla. Continue until you are out of the filling. Sprinkle with remaining Monterey Jack cheese. 5. Bake in a pre-heated oven for 30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbling.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o3e_QDRNGVk/U1AUAdhTaRI/AAAAAAAADNE/jxsInAKuOYI/s1600/HawaiianChickenandRice.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o3e_QDRNGVk/U1AUAdhTaRI/AAAAAAAADNE/jxsInAKuOYI/s1600/HawaiianChickenandRice.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="http://aktoidsimpsons.blogspot.com/2013/01/crocked-hawaiian-chicken-freezer-meal.html">Hawaiian Chicken & Rice</a><br />
Contributed by Me :)<br />
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Freezer to Table-<br />
Throw contents of bag into Crockpot on Low for 6-8 hours. Steam rice. <br />
Serve Chicken & Sauce on top of rice.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aHJAj3y-xRQ/U1AUey-mXQI/AAAAAAAADNM/xP-KTAKuxW4/s1600/FarmersCasserole.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aHJAj3y-xRQ/U1AUey-mXQI/AAAAAAAADNM/xP-KTAKuxW4/s1600/FarmersCasserole.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Farmers-Casserole/Detail.aspx?event8=1&prop24=SR_Title&e11=farmers+breakfast+casserole&e8=Quick+Search&event10=1&e7=Home+Page&soid=sr_results_p1i1">Farmers Casserole</a><br />
Contributed by Sarah Bastian<br />
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Freezer to Table:<br />
Place thawed contents of bag in greased casserole dish and bake for 40-45 mins at 350 degrees.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Jktl2Vb4aQI/U1AU_fLO6gI/AAAAAAAADNU/vFT17cT5ye4/s1600/ChicNoodleStirfry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Jktl2Vb4aQI/U1AU_fLO6gI/AAAAAAAADNU/vFT17cT5ye4/s1600/ChicNoodleStirfry.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<u>Chicken Noodle Stir Fry</u><br />
Contributed by Kayla Gross<br />
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Chicken chunks in Stir fry sauce in one bag<br />
Yakasoba Noodles in 2nd bag<br />
Stir fry Veggies in 3rd bag.<br />
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Wok chicken in sauce until almost completely cooked. Add veggies and noodles. Cover to steam.<br />
Serve.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q6UB_9A9v54/U1AggFCtuhI/AAAAAAAADNk/wFqqzFLXUTc/s1600/FREEZERafter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q6UB_9A9v54/U1AggFCtuhI/AAAAAAAADNk/wFqqzFLXUTc/s1600/FREEZERafter.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
Here's what my freezer looked like after I got home. <br />
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Perk #1: It takes an incredible amount of stress off my plate knowing I can come home, have MANY choices for dinner and that it will be healthy and from scratch. <br />
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Perk #2: It typically costs around $100 to make my freezer meals to swap and those dinners last darn near all month. When is the last time you said that you were able to feed your family dinner for a month on $100? :) <br />
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Perk #3: It feels like I have take out EVERY night because these are not my recipes! Something new all the time :)<br />
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Time, Health, Savings......Yay!
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<script async="" defer="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>Kristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16957641143826741674noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4392558138599022443.post-48674705610665948482014-04-17T09:49:00.000-07:002015-08-13T08:03:36.704-07:00Perfect Freezer Cookies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Nj5eIL7OShI/U1AD1Ijij7I/AAAAAAAADME/9Rui_7HcBA8/s1600/cookies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Nj5eIL7OShI/U1AD1Ijij7I/AAAAAAAADME/9Rui_7HcBA8/s1600/cookies.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Whens the last time you wanted just one cookie? I have been seeing a lot of 'One Cookie' & 'Brownie in a Mug' Recipes on Pinterest lately and all I can say is.... that's great, but if I have to measure out all the ingredients anyway, why not just have a whole batch prepped for later? On to the next part of the story... Have you ever seen that show <a href="http://www.topsecretrecipes.com/top-secret-recipes-tv-time.html">Top Secret Recipes</a>? The one where Todd Wilber goes to like KFC or the Nabisco Corporate Headquarters and tries to duplicate a famous recipe? Ok well, I was watching this one time when he was trying to make a Mrs. Fields cookie. After many many trial and error fails... He came to one simple conclusion about the Famous Mrs. Fields cookie success.....<br />
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Cook from frozen.</div>
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What happens when you cook raw dough from frozen at a lower temperature for longer time?</div>
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A. The edges get crispy</div>
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B. The inside is chewy</div>
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I tested this theory on two different recipes. </div>
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The first was the famous<b> 'Oatmeal Scotchie' </b></div>
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(Recipe on the back of the Butterscotch Chips Bag. - It's no secret, but the cooking directions most certainly *<i>are</i>*)</div>
Ingredients:<br />
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour<br />
1 teaspoon baking soda<br />
1/2 teaspoon salt<br />
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon<br />
1 cup (2 sticks) butter or margarine, softened<br />
3/4 cup granulated sugar<br />
3/4 cup packed brown sugar<br />
2 large eggs<br />
1 teaspoon vanilla extract or grated peel of 1 orange<br />
3 cups quick or old-fashioned oats<br />
1 2/3 cups (11-oz. pkg.) NESTLÉ® TOLL HOUSE® Butterscotch Flavored Morsels Directions<br />
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1. COMBINE flour, baking soda, salt and cinnamon in small bowl.<br />
2. Beat butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs and vanilla extract in large mixer bowl.<br />
3. Gradually beat in flour mixture. Stir in oats and morsels.<br />
4. Drop by rounded tablespoon onto ungreased baking sheets.<br />
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PREHEAT oven to 375° F.- BAKE for 7 to 8 minutes for chewy cookies or 9 to 10 minutes for crisp cookies. Cool on baking sheets for 2 minutes; remove to wire racks to cool completely.<br />
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<b>FROM FROZEN: Bake at 325 for 18-23 mins! = PERFECTION</b><br />
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The second cookie I tested is a basic <b>M&M's Candy Cookie</b> </div>
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(Original recipe found on the back of an M&M's bag... with one added secret ingredient)</div>
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Ingredients:<br />
<div class="recipe" id="original">
2 1/2 cups flour<br />
1 teaspoon salt<br />
1 teaspoon baking soda<br />
1 cup butter or shortening<br />
1 cup packed brown sugar<br />
1/2 cup sugar<br />
1/2 Small package of Instant Vanilla Pudding <--*SECRET*<br />
2 eggs<br />
2 teaspoons vanilla<br />
2 cups M&Ms (reserve 1/2 cup for decorating)<br />
<ol>
<li>Position one of your oven racks in the middle of your oven and preheat your
oven to 375F. Line baking sheets with parchment paper for best results.
Otherwise, use ungreased cookie sheets.</li>
<li>In a medium size mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt and baking soda
until well blended.</li>
<li>In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter (or shortening) and sugars with an
electric mixer on medium-high speed until light and fluffy (This will take
several minutes). Scrape down the sides of the bowl with a rubber spatula to
make sure everything is well blended.</li>
<li>Beat in the eggs and vanilla until creamy.</li>
<li>Stir in flour mixture with a wooden spoon just until blended.</li>
<li>Stir in 1 1/2 cups M&Ms.</li>
<li>Drop dough by rounded teaspoonfuls onto prepared cookie sheets. Press
several additional M&Ms into each cookie.</li>
<li>Bake one cookie sheet at a time in the middle rack of the oven for 9 to 12
minutes or until the cookies are golden brown around the edges and just set in
the center.</li>
<li>Remove from the oven and transfer the cookies with a thin metal spatula to a
wire rack to cool completely.</li>
</ol>
<b>FROM FROZEN: Bake at 325 for 18-23 mins! = PERFECTION</b><br />
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<b>Basically, I'm saying you can pre-make your own cookie dough (All different kinds) and then lets say you want one of each of 3 cookies. Pull one of each out of your freezer, plop on a cookie sheet and bake all together for 18-23 minutes at the same temp! Fresh, homemade cookies and you didn't have to eat a dozen to get your fill. </b><br />
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<b>.... yep, you are sooooo welcome.</b></div>
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<script async="" defer="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>Kristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16957641143826741674noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4392558138599022443.post-16945109252215489072014-04-17T08:57:00.000-07:002015-08-13T08:04:03.790-07:00Poppyseed Ham Sliders<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FLIUdnJgV-A/U0_5ljOPSFI/AAAAAAAADL0/cMwbvvoRjxY/s1600/Done+PoppyHam.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FLIUdnJgV-A/U0_5ljOPSFI/AAAAAAAADL0/cMwbvvoRjxY/s1600/Done+PoppyHam.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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A friend made these for her second Christmas dinner and ever since, I decided these are the most amazing Ham Sandwiches I've ever had!<br />
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You'll need:<br />
Large (12 buns) tray of Hawaiian Rolls<br />
Around 1/2- 1 lb of thickly sliced Ham<br />
12 slices of white cheese<br />
1 bottle of Dijon Mustard<br />
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Assembly:<br />
Place bottom portion of buns in a deep casserole dish.<br />
Put Dijon mustard on each entire bottom bun.<br />
Put Swiss, Provolone or any other white cheese you'd like on top of dijon.<br />
Layer a nice thick slice of ham next.<br />
Another piece of cheese.<br />
More dijon.<br />
Top Bun.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1wbF2QK7D8o/U0_4q1v80LI/AAAAAAAADLk/XXxl8UYeFWI/s1600/sliders+in+tray.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1wbF2QK7D8o/U0_4q1v80LI/AAAAAAAADLk/XXxl8UYeFWI/s1600/sliders+in+tray.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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When ready to bake, melt 1 stick butter in a glass pyrex container that will 'pour'.<br />
Then add the following and stir:<br />
1 tbsp(ish) yellow mustard (I give it a good long squeeze)<br />
1 -2 tbsp Worscheshire (about 10 dashes)<br />
1/4 C Brown Sugar<br />
1/2 tsp Celery Salt (Shake it in)<br />
1 tbsp Dry Minced Onion<br />
1 tbsp Crushed Garlic<br />
2 tbsp poppy seeds<br />
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Pour mixture evenly over assembled sandwiches.Bake at 375 degrees for 15-25 mins.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FrTe_WERPJc/U0_46MATv5I/AAAAAAAADLw/ozbKsy--gGg/s1600/Eating+Sandwich.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FrTe_WERPJc/U0_46MATv5I/AAAAAAAADLw/ozbKsy--gGg/s1600/Eating+Sandwich.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
*If you are preparing as a freezer meal, mix the sauce together and store in a ziploc bag. when you are ready to bake and serve, 'melt' the sauce and pour over before placing in the oven. Also, if frozen when placed in oven, consider covering with tin foil, baking for 15 mins, then removing the tin foil and baking for another 10-15.<br />
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~Enjoy :)
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<script type="text/javascript" async defer src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js"></script>Kristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16957641143826741674noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4392558138599022443.post-62058489311214570722014-03-31T15:59:00.004-07:002014-03-31T15:59:58.391-07:00Homemade Coconut Lavender Body Butter<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tXfCjrY1cfE/UzntagGiHWI/AAAAAAAADKs/TsMOotekZTA/s1600/BButter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tXfCjrY1cfE/UzntagGiHWI/AAAAAAAADKs/TsMOotekZTA/s1600/BButter.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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I absolutely LOVE coconut oil! I make a sugar scrub out of it that totally KILLS my KP. However, what about when I don't want to scrub? I just want moisturizer that is amazing and smells delicious.....<br />
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OK- simple enough. Just rub the coconut oil on your body, right? Yeah, right. It's hard and clumpy and doesn't spread well. So.... I decided maybe if I whipped it like whipping cream? <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Zkm_tGy4l2U/UznzNnLzeKI/AAAAAAAADLU/A1gmJ5dz9QE/s1600/oil.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Zkm_tGy4l2U/UznzNnLzeKI/AAAAAAAADLU/A1gmJ5dz9QE/s1600/oil.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a></div>
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Plus I have a major love for lavender oil right now, so I thought I could add the essential oil to my whipped coconut oil and holy good gracious! <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wcmZZXSkSU4/Uznx-ioKXPI/AAAAAAAADLI/cVVFAvND9zM/s1600/raw.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wcmZZXSkSU4/Uznx-ioKXPI/AAAAAAAADLI/cVVFAvND9zM/s1600/raw.jpg" /></a></div>
Literally- I scraped the coconut oil out of the jar and put it in my kitchen aid. Added like 20 drops of Lavender Essential Oil and turned it on the highest setting for around 10 mins.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RrNiqOqUHfA/UznxsVNYRQI/AAAAAAAADLE/FhDNfb6PNPU/s1600/whipped.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RrNiqOqUHfA/UznxsVNYRQI/AAAAAAAADLE/FhDNfb6PNPU/s1600/whipped.jpg" /></a></div>
Fan-FREAKING-Tastic!<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZJRbq8uIVWs/UznxkQp2ozI/AAAAAAAADK4/nEAlnhz16DA/s1600/Done.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZJRbq8uIVWs/UznxkQp2ozI/AAAAAAAADK4/nEAlnhz16DA/s1600/Done.jpg" height="238" width="320" /></a></div>
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<3 <3 <3<br />
I'm in LOVE.Kristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16957641143826741674noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4392558138599022443.post-63078124282913165582014-03-27T13:07:00.000-07:002015-08-13T08:07:04.904-07:00KP, Psoriasis, Rosecea, Eczema, Acne, Stretch Marks, Scarring.... SOLVED!<div style="text-align: center;">
If you suffer from: </div>
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<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Keratosis_pilaris">Keratosis Pilaris</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rosacea">Rosecea</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eczema">Eczema</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psoriasis">Psoriasis</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Acne">Acne</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Periorbital_dark_circles">Dark Under Eye Circles</a>,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stretch_marks">Stretch Marks</a>, or <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scarring">Scarring</a>.......goodness gracious, KEEP READING! </div>
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I have found a skin solution for ALL of the above!</div>
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<u><span style="font-size: large;">Introducing: </span></u><br />
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<b>Younique's Facial Cleanser, <a href="https://www.youniqueproducts.com/kristinasimpson/products/view/US-1072-00#.UzRFb_ldUZk"> 'Awake'</a> </b><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KXR8QTv24UI/UzRGzQkv7HI/AAAAAAAADHo/k1JooFL3-7M/s1600/awakw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KXR8QTv24UI/UzRGzQkv7HI/AAAAAAAADHo/k1JooFL3-7M/s1600/awakw.JPG" /></a></div>
<b>Awake</b> is *first of all* NOT SOAP- therefore, its cleansing abilities gently exfoliate and cleanse impurities without drying the skin or hurting the eyes. Only 1/2 a pea sized amount is necessary to wash the whole face, about the size of 2 peas for face and ENTIRE BODY!<br />
Awake is composed of the following beneficial active ingredients:<br />
<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Licorice_root">Licorice Root</a> Anti-Inflammatory/ Antimicrobial/ Anti-Ulcer Agent<br />
<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chrysanthemum">Garden Chrysanthemum</a> Anti-Inflammatory/ Antibacterial/Insecticide- **Doubling 'Awake' as a bug repellant!<br />
<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aloe_vera">Aloe Vera </a> Antimicrobial/Anti-irritant with cooling, moisturizing & healing properties.<br />
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<b>Younique's Gel Moisturizer, <a href="https://www.youniqueproducts.com/kristinasimpson/products/view/US-1071-00#.UzRFg_ldUZk">'Brilliant'</a></b><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZPAgWU8ElUA/UzR7Fa1GK_I/AAAAAAAADIE/JgE-AqyhskQ/s1600/Brilliant+by+self.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZPAgWU8ElUA/UzR7Fa1GK_I/AAAAAAAADIE/JgE-AqyhskQ/s1600/Brilliant+by+self.jpg" height="242" width="320" /></a></div>
<b>Brilliant</b> is not a typical face moisturizer! It is packaged with a small spoon to scoop a lotion ball with surrounding gel out of the container. I counted them and there are at least 130 applications included! Active Ingredients:<br />
<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colloidal_silver">Natural Silver</a> Antibacterial/Antimicrobial with healing properties<br />
<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ginseng#Traditional_uses">Ginseng</a> Natural Stimulant<br />
<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pearl">Pearl Powder</a> - 100% <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Calcium_carbonate#Health_and_dietary_applications">Calcium Carbonate</a>- Acidity regulator, Anti-caking agent, & Stabilizer. <br />
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**I almost don't even care what pearls are made of... having them in the moisturizer just sounds fancy! <br />
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I am completely overwhelmed with both of these products! Amazing. Fantastic. Superb. Phenomenal. There's really not enough 'GOOD' adjectives. There's just not.<br />
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Here's what you really want to see:<br />
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STRETCH MARKS:<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YHF5N1i_MaM/UzR70GhLtCI/AAAAAAAADIM/8Wm58zmNoFI/s1600/chloe+kerling.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YHF5N1i_MaM/UzR70GhLtCI/AAAAAAAADIM/8Wm58zmNoFI/s1600/chloe+kerling.jpg" height="220" width="400" /></a></div>
Younique presenter Chloe Kerling used 2 'beads' of Brilliant 2x per day for 1 month on her 1 year old stretch marks. <br />
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These results (the after picture) are 3 weeks after stopping the routine!<br />
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SCARRING:<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YctyFsD7xXY/UzR814BidMI/AAAAAAAADIY/yKZzYo8BwUU/s1600/1904273_10201531750922553_494172029_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YctyFsD7xXY/UzR814BidMI/AAAAAAAADIY/yKZzYo8BwUU/s1600/1904273_10201531750922553_494172029_n.jpg" height="351" width="400" /></a></div>
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Brilliant used 2x per day for 2 weeks on 1 year old scar.<br />
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ECZEMA:<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4S45wgB-_x4/UzR9Qcmp64I/AAAAAAAADIg/eHzjYEcjcrg/s1600/eczemabrilliant.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4S45wgB-_x4/UzR9Qcmp64I/AAAAAAAADIg/eHzjYEcjcrg/s1600/eczemabrilliant.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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Younique presenter, Melissa Fisher- Rare form of Eczema diminished after 3 days of using Brilliant.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vq6pFheaues/UzSAnukZcUI/AAAAAAAADI4/EUzL4hfvPVA/s1600/Eczema+2xfor+2+days.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vq6pFheaues/UzSAnukZcUI/AAAAAAAADI4/EUzL4hfvPVA/s1600/Eczema+2xfor+2+days.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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Brilliant 2x daily for 2 days on 3 year old's foot.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VKp6JReklsk/UzSA36WJiNI/AAAAAAAADJA/ckyKXZ5ZHck/s1600/eczema1weekbrilliant.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VKp6JReklsk/UzSA36WJiNI/AAAAAAAADJA/ckyKXZ5ZHck/s1600/eczema1weekbrilliant.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
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Brilliant 2x per day for 1 week on elbow for Eczema.<br />
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PSORIASIS:<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--6j7Nksw0FQ/UzR-atTkJoI/AAAAAAAADIs/jTjArcH1QUQ/s1600/psoriasis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--6j7Nksw0FQ/UzR-atTkJoI/AAAAAAAADIs/jTjArcH1QUQ/s1600/psoriasis.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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ROSECEA:<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YJDePC8tjzM/UzSBXe6-WII/AAAAAAAADJM/UEshYVA4LJk/s1600/a%2526Bhyperpigmentation.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YJDePC8tjzM/UzSBXe6-WII/AAAAAAAADJM/UEshYVA4LJk/s1600/a%2526Bhyperpigmentation.jpg" height="288" width="320" /></a></div>
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PUFFY UNDER-EYE CIRCLES 'BAGS':<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GDUYJ-PrQpU/UzSB1i6j5NI/AAAAAAAADJQ/J6b5wtBHgnY/s1600/puffy+eyes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GDUYJ-PrQpU/UzSB1i6j5NI/AAAAAAAADJQ/J6b5wtBHgnY/s1600/puffy+eyes.jpg" height="261" width="320" /></a></div>
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3 week Awake & Brilliant Trial for Under-Eye Circles.<br />
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ACNE:<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Op-eDPIK_K8/UzSCTKQPpXI/AAAAAAAADJg/h0z6A1_mENE/s1600/awake+testimonial.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Op-eDPIK_K8/UzSCTKQPpXI/AAAAAAAADJg/h0z6A1_mENE/s1600/awake+testimonial.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
Younique presenter, Melissa after using Awake 2x per day for 2 weeks.<br />
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(Previously- tried "everything")<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QnaOWSmyAqI/UzSI54XJk_I/AAAAAAAADKA/mtdM2P_tMDM/s1600/acneBEST.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QnaOWSmyAqI/UzSI54XJk_I/AAAAAAAADKA/mtdM2P_tMDM/s1600/acneBEST.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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WRINKLES:<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xNMihsFxMVs/UzXDCq1T4sI/AAAAAAAADKQ/W5TRUAYxe2c/s1600/Brilliant+1+week+wrinkles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xNMihsFxMVs/UzXDCq1T4sI/AAAAAAAADKQ/W5TRUAYxe2c/s1600/Brilliant+1+week+wrinkles.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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Forehead wrinkles on Younique presenter.<br />
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1 Week trial of Awake & Brilliant 2x per day.<br />
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**Note: Awake has been reformulated into Illuminate Clean (normal/dry skin) & Illuminate Clear (Oily/Original Awake). Brilliant has retired and replaced by Divine. If you are interested in a sample of Younique's products, please contact me!<br />
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To purchase anything directly, go to <a href="http://www.getfiberlashed.com/">www.getfiberlashed.com</a> and select my current party!<br />
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Ask me how to get them for FREE!<br />
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<script type="text/javascript" async defer src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js"></script>Kristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16957641143826741674noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4392558138599022443.post-60794836851197690762014-03-21T13:27:00.000-07:002014-04-29T14:21:16.005-07:001 Day + $200= 36 Freezer Meals<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5MwqMPgggqc/Ut_vOHDZQJI/AAAAAAAADHU/861u1AneO2M/s1600/All+meals+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_lm_403065="null" cua="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5MwqMPgggqc/Ut_vOHDZQJI/AAAAAAAADHU/861u1AneO2M/s1600/All+meals+collage.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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I had an old friend, Andi contact me in December asking if I had any interest in being 'hired' to make freezer meals for a family member that recently had a baby. Being that this was a completely new concept to me, I thought about it for .5 seconds and agreed! A month or so later, I texted her to see if she still wanted this to happen. She said yes....I created a menu......Shopped..........Froze..........Delivered.</div>
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After the fact..... Andi stated that her niece said it was the best thing anyone had ever done for her. I'm telling you.... in a time of need or crisis. Food to the rescue! #Winning.</div>
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Andi sent me $200 and said: "Go"</div>
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I had a plan in my head for what I was going to make. I went shopping for the main ingredients (mostly meat & the fresh veggies, etc). My total at the grocery store was ~ $197. Of course I used some things I already had on hand such as spices, and soy sauce, but I literally was able to make 30 dinners for less than $200! Not 36 servings... 36 WHOLE MEALS! An average of $5.55 to feed your family with likely leftovers? </div>
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Yes, please.</div>
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Now..... If I knew then what I know now, I would have made these over several different days. But I didn't. I went shopping on Sunday morning. Put the meat in the Crockpots when I got home and then tried to work it from there on that day only. Bad idea. I was way unorganized and ended up staying up ALL night to complete the job. Nonetheless. It got done and I delivered on Monday night to the recipient.</div>
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<b>*Note: ALWAYS make 2 of everything you cook from scratch and freeze one. </b></div>
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This little 'Rule of Multiples' became very helpful this week when I offered to bring some freezer meals to a friend that had a death in her family. No skin off my back....I literally pulled some stuff out of the freezer and brought it to her! </div>
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<b>Single Effort = Double Outcome</b></div>
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Here are the meals & 'Freezer Cooking' Instructions that I made this round ;)</div>
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<u><b>Tamale Pie (x2)</b></u></div>
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Thaw during day, Bake @ 375 for 45 mins- 1 hr</div>
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Serve with Sour Cream Garnish</div>
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<u><b>Tater Tot Casserole (x2)</b></u></div>
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Covered, Bake @400 for 30-45 mins, then uncovered for another 15-20 mins. </div>
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Until bubbly and tater tots are crispy and browned.</div>
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Recipe:</div>
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Mix together 1 lb cooked hamburger, 2 cans Cream of Mushroom Soup</div>
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and 2 cans drained green beans and place in deep casserole dish. </div>
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Generously cover top with tater tot coins. Cover with tin foil.</div>
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<u><b>Green Chile & Chicken White Enchiladas (x2)</b></u></div>
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Bake @ 350 for 45 mins- 1hr</div>
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Serve with Sour Cream Garnish</div>
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<u><b>Bean, Cheese, & Onion Burritos (x2 Bags of 4)</b></u></div>
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Bake @375 for 25 mins or microwave</div>
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<u><b><a href="http://aktoidsimpsons.blogspot.com/2014/04/poppyseed-ham-sliders.html">Poppyseed Ham Sliders</a> (x2)</b></u></div>
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Cover with foil, Bake @375 for 20 mins</div>
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<u><b><a href="http://aktoidsimpsons.blogspot.com/2012/10/chocolate-zucchini-bread-taco-meat.html">Banana Pancakes</a> (2)</b></u></div>
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Microwave, then toast if you'd like</div>
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<u><b><a href="http://aktoidsimpsons.blogspot.com/2014/04/perfect-freezer-cookies.html">Freezer Cookies</a> (x2)</b></u></div>
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From frozen, bake at 325 for 18-23 mins</div>
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<u><b>Chicken Pot Pie (x4)</b></u></div>
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Bake @375 for 45 min- 1 hr </div>
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(cover crust with foil & watch)</div>
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<u>Recipe (for 2 pies):</u></div>
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1 cup frozen tater tots (microwaved and broken apart)</div>
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2 shredded precooked (crocked with garlic) chicken breasts</div>
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1/2-3/4 Cup Frozen Peas & Carrots (Microwave to thaw)</div>
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1/2 cup sour cream</div>
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3-4 oz cream cheese</div>
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1 can cream of chicken soup</div>
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1/4 tsp poultry seasoning, Some salt and pepper</div>
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1 cup shredded cheese blend</div>
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Mix all ingredients together and place in pie crust. </div>
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Top with more cheese</div>
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<u><b><a href="http://aktoidsimpsons.blogspot.com/2013/01/crocked-hawaiian-chicken-freezer-meal.html">Hawaiian Chicken</a> (x4)</b></u></div>
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Cook in Crock pot on low 4-8 hours</div>
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Serve with Steamed Rice</div>
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<u><b><a href="http://aktoidsimpsons.blogspot.com/2012/10/5-freezer-meals-week-of-1029.html">Stroganoff</a> (x2)</b></u></div>
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Cook in Crock pot on low 4-8 hours</div>
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Then: Mix in 1C Sour Cream</div>
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Serve over Egg Noodles or Rice</div>
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<u><b><a href="http://aktoidsimpsons.blogspot.com/2012/06/yakasoba-noodle-mongolian-beef.html">Yakasoba Noodle Mongolian Beef</a> (x2)</b></u></div>
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Cook in Crock pot on low 4-8 hours</div>
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Then: Mix thawed noodles into Meat & Sauce</div>
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<u><b>Twice Baked Potatoes (x2 Bags of 4)</b></u></div>
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Thaw overnight in fridge, then:</div>
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Bake at 375 for 45 mins -1 hr</div>
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<u><b>BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches (x2 Bags of 8)</b></u></div>
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Heat single portion & Assemble sandwich</div>
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<u><b>Sweet & Sour Meatballs with Rice (x2)</b></u></div>
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Heat up Meatballs & Sauce in Microwave or pot</div>
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Serve over Steamed Rice</div>
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<u>Recipe:</u></div>
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- Combine equal parts Heinz Chili Sauce and grape jelly and simmer over low heat.</div>
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Toss with precooked meatballs. </div>
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<u><b><a href="http://aktoidsimpsons.blogspot.com/2012/10/chocolate-zucchini-bread-taco-meat.html">Pre-Cooked Taco Meat </a>(x4)</b></u></div>
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Heat and use</div>
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After completing this project, I had such a massive response about how, why etc, that I decided it was time to start my own "FREEZER MEALS SWAP GROUP"</div>
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Stay tuned for THOSE posts! The ladies have all agreed to guest blog their contributions from each swap.</div>
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I'd LOVE to hear what your favorite freezer meals are!</div>
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Kristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16957641143826741674noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4392558138599022443.post-52053376979606933152014-01-02T11:26:00.000-08:002015-08-13T08:03:52.896-07:00MENU PLAN for a YEAR!<div style="margin: 0in;">
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Well here it is!!!<br />
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Last year's goal has come to fruition!<br />
Below you will see a compiled list of my families dinner schedule for the entire year of 2013!<br />
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I hope it can help you as much as it helped me!<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MyusYxZARKU/UsW9Ot6WbaI/AAAAAAAADHE/9pKlYsSK5Lw/s1600/take+it+or+leave+it.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="280" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MyusYxZARKU/UsW9Ot6WbaI/AAAAAAAADHE/9pKlYsSK5Lw/s400/take+it+or+leave+it.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: blue; font-size: large;"><a href="http://aktoidsimpsons.blogspot.com/2013/01/january-2013-dinners.html">January 2013 Dinners</a></span><br />
<a href="http://aktoidsimpsons.blogspot.com/2013/02/february-2013-dinners.html"><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">February 2013 Dinners</span></a><br />
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<span style="color: blue; font-size: large;"><a href="http://aktoidsimpsons.blogspot.com/2013/03/march-2013-dinners.html">March 2013 Dinners</a></span><br />
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<span style="color: blue; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.aktoidsimpsons.blogspot.com/2013/03/april-2013-dinners.html">April 2013 Dinners</a></span><br />
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<span style="color: blue; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.aktoidsimpsons.blogspot.com/2013/05/may-2013-dinners.html">May 2013 Dinners</a></span><br />
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<span style="color: blue; font-size: large;"><a href="http://aktoidsimpsons.blogspot.com/2013/06/june-2013-dinners.html">June 2013 Dinners</a></span><br />
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<span style="color: blue; font-size: large;"><a href="http://aktoidsimpsons.blogspot.com/2013/06/july-meal-planning.html">July 2013 Dinners</a></span><br />
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<span style="color: blue; font-size: large;"><a href="http://aktoidsimpsons.blogspot.com/2013/08/august-meal-planning.html">August 2013 Dinners</a></span><br />
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<span style="color: blue; font-size: large;"><a href="http://aktoidsimpsons.blogspot.com/2013/09/september-meal-planning.html">September 2013 Dinners</a></span><br />
<a href="http://aktoidsimpsons.blogspot.com/2013/10/october-2013-meal-planning.html"><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">October 2013 Dinners</span></a><br />
<span style="color: blue; font-size: large;"><a href="http://aktoidsimpsons.blogspot.com/2013/11/november-meal-planning.html">November 2013 Dinners</a></span><br />
<span style="color: blue; font-size: large;"><a href="http://aktoidsimpsons.blogspot.com/2013/12/december-meal-planning.html">December 2013 Dinners</a></span><br />
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Now.... 2014's goal: <br />
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Operation PURGE & ORGANIZE!!!</div>
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<script type="text/javascript" async defer src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js"></script>Kristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16957641143826741674noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4392558138599022443.post-15064003157627755452013-12-19T15:02:00.001-08:002013-12-19T15:02:18.434-08:00Superfood Holiday Salad<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-59Zb8ABzR2k/UrN6i2zY4JI/AAAAAAAADG0/ZcSzPFioNEg/s1600/Kale+Beet+Citrus+JicimaSalad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-59Zb8ABzR2k/UrN6i2zY4JI/AAAAAAAADG0/ZcSzPFioNEg/s400/Kale+Beet+Citrus+JicimaSalad.jpg" width="363" /></a></div>
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I have an inhuman obsession with beets. Like no joke, I open a can of them and eat the whole thing with my salad. I guess there are worse things..... I decided in the attempt to force beets on others, I would make a Kale & Beet Citrus Salad and bring it to Thanksgiving dinner with my homemade stuffing <- *Fantastic*<br />
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This is SUPER simple and needs ZERO dressing.<br />
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2-3 Cans of Crinkle Cut Pickled Beet Slices<br />
1 Medium Jicama (Peeled and sliced into thin 2" strips)<br />
2 Cans Mandarin Oranges (Drained)<br />
2 Grapefruit de-veined (you could use the already done refrigerated ones if you want)<br />
1 tray of Baby Kale<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xDAieW0O9F8/UrN5do4feJI/AAAAAAAADGk/-CjiqzGc_e4/s1600/citrus+&+jicima.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xDAieW0O9F8/UrN5do4feJI/AAAAAAAADGk/-CjiqzGc_e4/s320/citrus+&+jicima.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Mix er up and off you go!<br />
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I LOVE Beets!<br />
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Did I mention I like them a lot?<br />
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Just for good measure- everyone was commenting and posting about this crazy looking Nutella bread on Facebook. I decided I was up for that challenge too.....with frosting, of course.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4ODOnKGl8PM/UrN6bXjrYkI/AAAAAAAADGs/gvAqk7iDEyQ/s1600/nutella+bread.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4ODOnKGl8PM/UrN6bXjrYkI/AAAAAAAADGs/gvAqk7iDEyQ/s320/nutella+bread.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Kristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16957641143826741674noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4392558138599022443.post-80027211864604267252013-12-19T14:50:00.001-08:002014-01-02T11:18:20.294-08:00December Meal Planning<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 615px;"><colgroup><col span="2" style="width: 48pt;" width="64"></col><col style="mso-width-alt: 17810; mso-width-source: userset; width: 365pt;" width="487"></col></colgroup><tbody>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;"><td align="right" class="xl65" height="21" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0; height: 15.75pt; width: 48pt;" width="64"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">1-Dec</span></td><td class="xl66" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0; width: 48pt;" width="64"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">SUN</span></td><td style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0; width: 365pt;" width="487"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Potluck</span></td></tr>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;"><td align="right" class="xl65" height="21" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0; height: 15.75pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">2-Dec</span></td><td class="xl66" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">MON</span></td><td class="xl68" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0;">Tuna Melt Pitas</td></tr>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;"><td align="right" class="xl65" height="21" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0; height: 15.75pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">3-Dec</span></td><td class="xl66" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">TUES</span></td><td class="xl67" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0;"><a href="http://aktoidsimpsons.blogspot.com/2012/06/fancy-schmancy-plain-ol-tacos.html"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Tacos</span></span></a></td></tr>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;"><td align="right" class="xl65" height="21" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0; height: 15.75pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">4-Dec</span></td><td class="xl66" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">WED</span></td><td class="xl68" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0;">Broccoli Ham Ring & Tater Tots</td></tr>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;"><td align="right" class="xl65" height="21" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0; height: 15.75pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">5-Dec</span></td><td class="xl66" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">THUR</span></td><td class="xl66" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span class="font8"><strong>Alexias Choir Concert</strong></span><span class="font5">- Crocked Spaghetti</span></span></td></tr>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;"><td align="right" class="xl65" height="21" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0; height: 15.75pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">6-Dec</span></td><td class="xl66" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">FRI</span></td><td class="xl69" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0;"><strong><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Work X-Mas Luncheon/ MANE St Salon X-Mas Party PM</span></strong></td></tr>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;"><td align="right" class="xl65" height="21" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0; height: 15.75pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">7-Dec</span></td><td class="xl66" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">SAT</span></td><td class="xl70" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0;"><strong><u><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">Ornament Exchange Potluck</span></u></strong></td></tr>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;"><td align="right" class="xl65" height="21" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0; height: 15.75pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">8-Dec</span></td><td class="xl66" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">SUN</span></td><td class="xl68" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0;">Tortellini Soup & <span class="font7">Cheddar Biscuits</span></td></tr>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;"><td align="right" class="xl65" height="21" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0; height: 15.75pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">9-Dec</span></td><td class="xl66" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">MON</span></td><td class="xl67" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0;"><a href="http://aktoidsimpsons.blogspot.com/2012/06/fancy-schmancy-plain-ol-tacos.html"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Tacos</span></span></a></td></tr>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;"><td align="right" class="xl65" height="21" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0; height: 15.75pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">10-Dec</span></td><td class="xl66" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">TUES</span></td><td class="xl66" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Leftovers</span></td></tr>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;"><td align="right" class="xl65" height="21" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0; height: 15.75pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">11-Dec</span></td><td class="xl66" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">WED</span></td><td class="xl68" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0;">Spinach, Artichoke, Havarti & Roasted Garlic Quesadillas</td></tr>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;"><td align="right" class="xl65" height="21" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0; height: 15.75pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">12-Dec</span></td><td class="xl66" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">THUR</span></td><td class="xl69" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0;"><strong><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Chrissy's Baby Shower</span></strong></td></tr>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;"><td align="right" class="xl65" height="21" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0; height: 15.75pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">13-Dec</span></td><td class="xl66" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">FRI</span></td><td class="xl69" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0;"><strong><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Smith's X-Mas Party - potluck</span></strong></td></tr>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;"><td align="right" class="xl65" height="21" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0; height: 15.75pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">14-Dec</span></td><td class="xl66" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">SAT</span></td><td class="xl70" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0;"><u><span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span class="font6">Eagle Country Christmas @ Noon/</span><span class="font9"><strong>CTR Christmas Party @ The Crescent</strong></span></span></span></u></td></tr>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;"><td align="right" class="xl65" height="21" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0; height: 15.75pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">15-Dec</span></td><td class="xl66" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">SUN</span></td><td class="xl67" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0;"><a href="http://aktoidsimpsons.blogspot.com/2013/10/freezer-meal-twice-baked-potatoes.html"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Turkey Meatloaf, Homemade Onion Rings, 2X Baked Potatoes & Salad</span></span></a></td></tr>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;"><td align="right" class="xl65" height="21" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0; height: 15.75pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">16-Dec</span></td><td class="xl66" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">MON</span></td><td class="xl67" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0;">Chicken Dinner</td></tr>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;"><td align="right" class="xl65" height="21" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0; height: 15.75pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">17-Dec</span></td><td class="xl66" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">TUES</span></td><td class="xl66" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Out to Mongos</span></td></tr>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;"><td align="right" class="xl65" height="21" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0; height: 15.75pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">18-Dec</span></td><td class="xl66" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">WED</span></td><td class="xl66" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0;"><a href="http://aktoidsimpsons.blogspot.com/2012/06/fancy-schmancy-plain-ol-tacos.html"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Tacos</span></span></a></td></tr>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;"><td align="right" class="xl65" height="21" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0; height: 15.75pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">19-Dec</span></td><td class="xl66" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">THUR</span></td><td class="xl66" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">BBQ Pork & Leftover Salads</span></td></tr>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;"><td align="right" class="xl65" height="21" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0; height: 15.75pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">20-Dec</span></td><td class="xl66" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">FRI</span></td><td class="xl66" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Salad</span></td></tr>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;"><td align="right" class="xl65" height="21" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0; height: 15.75pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">21-Dec</span></td><td class="xl66" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">SAT</span></td><td class="xl69" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b>Club Party/Ugly Sweater Party</b></span></td></tr>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;"><td align="right" class="xl65" height="21" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0; height: 15.75pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">22-Dec</span></td><td class="xl66" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">SUN</span></td><td class="xl66" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Family</span></td></tr>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;"><td align="right" class="xl65" height="21" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0; height: 15.75pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">23-Dec</span></td><td class="xl66" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">MON</span></td><td class="xl66" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Family</span></td></tr>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;"><td align="right" class="xl65" height="21" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0; height: 15.75pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">24-Dec</span></td><td class="xl66" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">TUES</span></td><td class="xl66" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Christmas Eve- Homemade Ornaments/Movie Night</span></td></tr>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;"><td align="right" class="xl65" height="21" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0; height: 15.75pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">25-Dec</span></td><td class="xl66" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">WED</span></td><td class="xl66" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Christmas Dinner with Family</span></td></tr>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;"><td align="right" class="xl65" height="21" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0; height: 15.75pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">26-Dec</span></td><td class="xl66" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">THUR</span></td><td class="xl66" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Family</span></td></tr>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;"><td align="right" class="xl65" height="21" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0; height: 15.75pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">27-Dec</span></td><td class="xl66" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">FRI</span></td><td class="xl66" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Family</span></td></tr>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;"><td align="right" class="xl65" height="21" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0; height: 15.75pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">28-Dec</span></td><td class="xl66" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">SAT</span></td><td class="xl66" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Family</span></td></tr>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;"><td align="right" class="xl65" height="21" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0; height: 15.75pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">29-Dec</span></td><td class="xl66" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">SUN</span></td><td class="xl69" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0;"><strong><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Alexia's Birthday- Out to Tucanos</span></strong></td></tr>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;"><td align="right" class="xl65" height="21" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0; height: 15.75pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">30-Dec</span></td><td class="xl66" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">MON</span></td><td class="xl67" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0;"><a href="http://aktoidsimpsons.blogspot.com/2012/06/fancy-schmancy-plain-ol-tacos.html"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Tacos</span></span></a></td></tr>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;"><td align="right" class="xl65" height="21" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0; height: 15.75pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">31-Dec</span></td><td class="xl66" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">TUES</span></td><td class="xl66" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Hoppin John in the Crock</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Kristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16957641143826741674noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4392558138599022443.post-48464013378498169462013-12-19T14:48:00.000-08:002013-12-19T14:48:46.080-08:00Crockpot Stuffing<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UR6xlCRhaok/UrN3bJ4HmBI/AAAAAAAADGY/NyqzVmXM5LI/s1600/stuffing+incrock.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="247" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UR6xlCRhaok/UrN3bJ4HmBI/AAAAAAAADGY/NyqzVmXM5LI/s400/stuffing+incrock.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
I was tasked with making homemade stuffing at Thanksgiving this year..... I actually snarled..... Don't ask me why I can get excited about making something uber complex, yet wet bread seemed like 'too much.' Well..... I was wrong! So easy and I am going to say it..... *Better than Stove Top*<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lb33ROrF8kE/UrNz9-iCKrI/AAAAAAAADGE/6Fx0OY_4DC0/s1600/stuffing+ingredients.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lb33ROrF8kE/UrNz9-iCKrI/AAAAAAAADGE/6Fx0OY_4DC0/s320/stuffing+ingredients.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Now, everything you see in this picture was used entirely. HOWEVER... I couldn't fit ALL of the bread cubes in the crock at the beginning so I just made a little bit of hot stock, wet the last bit and mixed it in with the completed masterpiece ;)<br />
<br />
First, in a deep frying pan, you will need to saute 1 C finely chopped Red Onions, ~ 2 C finely chopped celery in 1 C Butter until translucent. <br />
<br />
Add 1 tbsp Minced Garlic<br />
Add 2 Cans drained & finely chopped mushrooms<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7ryWRiEEh_E/UrN0xA8E4iI/AAAAAAAADGM/11D6QJuPBS4/s1600/simmering.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7ryWRiEEh_E/UrN0xA8E4iI/AAAAAAAADGM/11D6QJuPBS4/s320/simmering.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Add 2 Cans drained and finely diced water chestnuts.<br />
<br />
Place most of the 20ish cups of breadcrumbs in your greased crockpot. Pour sauteed mixture into crock.<br />
Add:<br />
<span class="amount"><span class="value">1/4</span> C<span class="type">up</span></span> <span class="name">chopped <a href="http://www.food.com/library/parsley-171" s_oc="null">fresh parsley</a></span><br /><span class="amount"><span class="value">1 </span><span class="type">teaspoon</span></span>
<span class="name"><a href="http://www.food.com/library/poultry-seasoning-734" s_oc="null">poultry seasoning</a></span><br /><span class="amount"><span class="value">1 1/2</span> <span class="type">teaspoons</span></span> <span class="name"><a href="http://www.food.com/library/sage-342" s_oc="null">dried sage</a></span><br /><span class="amount"><span class="value">1 </span><span class="type">teaspoon</span></span>
<span class="name"><a href="http://www.food.com/library/thyme-348" s_oc="null">dried thyme</a></span><br /><span class="amount"><span class="value">1/2</span> <span class="type">teaspoon</span></span> <span class="name"><a href="http://www.food.com/library/marjoram-329" s_oc="null">dried marjoram</a></span><br /><span class="amount"><span class="value">1 1/2</span> <span class="type">teaspoons</span></span> <span class="name"><a href="http://www.food.com/library/salt-359" s_oc="null">salt</a> , 1/2 </span><span class="amount"><span class="type">teaspoon</span></span> <span class="name"><a href="http://www.food.com/library/pepper-337" s_oc="null">black
pepper</a></span><div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Next, mix 3 Eggs into about 2 cups of stock of your choice and gently pour evenly over breadcrumbs stirring as you go.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Turn the crock on 'keep warm' if it runs hot and check every half hour (stirring) to make sure it isn't burning on the bottom. Mine was done in less than 2 hours!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I'm thinking I'll never go back to Stove Top! </div>
Kristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16957641143826741674noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4392558138599022443.post-92154079508423824612013-11-21T14:20:00.000-08:002013-11-21T14:20:48.328-08:00New and Improved Green Smoothie!!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gjmSdObQUqA/Uo6G902yHnI/AAAAAAAADFk/xkDRX1nc_D4/s1600/finalsmoothie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gjmSdObQUqA/Uo6G902yHnI/AAAAAAAADFk/xkDRX1nc_D4/s400/finalsmoothie.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
About a year ago, I started making <a href="http://aktoidsimpsons.blogspot.com/2012/09/breakfast-smoothie.html">Green Smoothies</a> for my family. <br />
<br />
There are truly a hundred reasons why this is the absolute BEST thing you can consume for Breakfast!!!! <br />
<br />
If you look at my previous post and recipe for a <a href="http://aktoidsimpsons.blogspot.com/2012/09/breakfast-smoothie.html">Green Smoothie</a>, you will notice, it is simple and I kept it under 250 calories while still being full of nutrients. My new and improved version is closer to 500 calories, but being PURE nutrients, this should not be an issue to you, *even if you are a calorie counter*.<br />
<br />
I have kept the essence of my recipe and routine the same, but added a few fantastic ingredients!<br />
<br />
Here's the new and *Improved* Green Smoothie:<br />
<br />
To keep time & budgeting in check, I purchase my ingredients at Costco & Whole Foods every 5 weeks and create at least 30 pre-packaged baggies at a time.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dVibaVN_YlI/Uo5-27b-ibI/AAAAAAAADFA/SlAAAEbQj00/s1600/berries.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dVibaVN_YlI/Uo5-27b-ibI/AAAAAAAADFA/SlAAAEbQj00/s320/berries.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<u>The Sandwich Baggie:</u><br />
4-6 Strawberries: Costco- $10 for 1 Bag<br />
1 large handful Fresh Spinach: Costco- $5 for 1 Bag<br />
1 Cup Blueberries: Costco- 2 Bags @ $12 ea<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--BHyI-jDSiw/Uo58pYVpJjI/AAAAAAAADE0/1_YR6JpxvM8/s1600/Dry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--BHyI-jDSiw/Uo58pYVpJjI/AAAAAAAADE0/1_YR6JpxvM8/s320/Dry.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<u>The Snack Baggie:</u><br />
2 Tbsp Ground Flax Seed ~$7<br />
1 Tbsp Chia Seed: 2 lb Bag, Costco $14 (Use 1/2)<br />
1/2 Tbsp *<a href="http://amazinggrass.com/product/74/Raw-Reserve-Green-SuperFood-30-servings.html">Raw Reserve</a>: Whole Foods- $40<br />
1/2 tsp *Powder Probiotic: Whole Foods- $10<br />
1/4 tsp Cinnamon: On hand<br />
1 Scoop Protein: Costco- $42 (Will use half)<br />
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* Powder Probiotic<br />
Yes, Probiotics are super easy to just take in Capsule form. If you happen to have the powder available, it is actually EASIER to make sure you consume your probiotic (like don't have to worry about remembering to take it) because you have put the dosage in the pre-made bags...... Zero remembering required.... Make Sense?<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TWo6PaxJqNU/Uo6ARn0BprI/AAAAAAAADFU/_swga2whnb8/s1600/rawreserve.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TWo6PaxJqNU/Uo6ARn0BprI/AAAAAAAADFU/_swga2whnb8/s320/rawreserve.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
*<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Amazing-Grass-SuperFood-Powder-30-8-5-Ounce/dp/B004TJD72Q/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1385071133&sr=8-1&keywords=raw+reserve">Raw Reserve</a><br />
I purchased this for the first time at Whole Foods for $40 but I found it on Amazon.com for $25..... um yeah... ship it please!<br />
This is BY FAR, THE MOST important ingredient in the Green Smoothie. You can research for yourself, but this 'green powder' is like a smorgasbord of super-foods all wrapped up into 25 calories of powder per serving (that tastes like grass) and is easily hidden in the smoothie!!! This is worth it's weight in GOLD!<br />
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The liquid Nettle leaf that is pictured here is just one of my special additions (catered to what I feel I personally need). There is actually Nettle in the Raw Reserve, so I wouldn't go as far as stating that everyone needs extra Nettle Leaf.<br />
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<br />
<br />
<br />
When you are ready to make your smoothie, put the following in the blender:<br />
Two ripe (spotted) bananas- I purchase around 20 Bananas per week ~$5<br />
1/2 Cup Organic Vanilla Yogurt - $3 per container, need 1 per 5 smoothie mixes<br />
1 Pre-Made Sandwich Baggie Pack (See above)<br />
1 Cup Vanilla Rice Milk: Costco- Case of 12 cartons is $15- I use 1 carton per 3 smoothies<br />
1-2 tbsp Honey<br />
<br />
Blend well then add ice.<br />
Once the consistency is to your liking, add the Pre-Made Snack Baggie of dry ingredients and mix quickly and gently. *You do not want to over blend the mixture with the chia seed in it- as a natural pectin, your smoothie will end up Jell-Oish like.<br />
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This makes 2 large servings (Me & My Hubs) if one of the kids wants one, I add another banana and extra ice.<br />
For 30 pre-made portions (60 servings) = Roughly $110.00 total or $1.80 each.<br />
<br />
That's a pretty cheap Breakfast for a LOT of benefits if you ask me...........<br />
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<br />Kristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16957641143826741674noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4392558138599022443.post-63886368976684530062013-11-20T08:51:00.000-08:002013-11-25T12:45:08.926-08:00Tortellini Skillet<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Ingredients:<br />
12-16 oz Cheese Tortellini<br />
10-12 Chicken Bouillon Cubes<br />
1 tray or chub Ground Italian Sausage<br />
1 tbsp Crushed Garlic<br />
1 tbsp Italian Seasoning<br />
1 block Cream Cheese<br />
1 Can Diced Tomatoes<br />
1 Bag Fresh Spinach<br />
1 Tray Sliced Mushrooms<br />
Parmesan Cheese for Garnish<br />
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<br />
This meal was FANTASTIC! Super easy and you can make with meat or without. <br />
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<br />
First you need to brown a tray of ground sausage. I used mild and it was a bit spicy for my little, but yummy nonetheless.<br />
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Next, Get a pot of water boiling with a few bouillon cubes in it and cook the tortellini. Do NOT drain the water.<br />
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To the cooked sausage, add the garlic and block of cream cheese. Mix well, then add 1 can of diced tomatoes (undrained) and a bag of fresh spinach. Let all cook together.<br />
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Last, add the cooked tortellini with some of the chicken stock water (like 1-2 cups) and seasoning to the pan, then mix well.<br />
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Garnish with Parmesan Cheese.<br />
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This was quite literally done in less than 20 mins. My hubs said the first bite tasted just like pizza! I would have to agree!<br />
<br />Kristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16957641143826741674noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4392558138599022443.post-9273083687813731202013-11-12T15:57:00.003-08:002013-11-12T15:57:32.075-08:00Chicken Corn Chowder<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Simple quick soup that doesn't need a Crockpot or a lot of time. In fact, if you have cooked chicken, you are almost done.....<br />
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I threw about 8 frozen chicken tenders in the Crockpot, covered with a can of creamed corn and 3 cubes of chicken boullion and set on low.<br />
... I left for work.<br />
When I came home, I used a 'Mix n Chop (pampered chef tool) to chop up the chicken.<br />
Into the Crockpot I added:<br />
Enough Milk to fully cover the Chicken<br />
1 can kernel corn (drained)<br />
1 tbsp minced garlic<br />
1 head of cauliflower cut in small pieces and steamed slightly.<br />
Ample amount of parsley.<br />
Handful of shredded cheese.<br />
Then:<br />
I cut up 1 package of thawed bacon and cooked until crispy..... threw in crock.<br />
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Turn Crock up to warm and let get bubbly<br />
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Season as you please....<br />
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********In case you needed a laugh today**********<br />
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My spell check *always* tries to change "Crockpot" to "Crack Pit"..... Now wouldn't THAT be interesting.......<br />
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<br />Kristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16957641143826741674noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4392558138599022443.post-82340570937531125962013-11-04T15:16:00.000-08:002014-01-02T11:18:02.980-08:00November Meal Planning<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<u><span style="font-size: 14pt;">11/1, FRI: </span></u><span style="font-size: 14pt;">Out
to Souper Salad<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<u><span style="font-size: 14pt;">11/2, SAT:</span></u><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 14.5pt;"> Meat, Cheese, Crackers, & Fruit Plate</span><span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<u><span style="font-size: 14pt;">11/3, SUN:</span></u><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> <b>Family Date</b>- <a href="http://aktoidsimpsons.blogspot.com/2013/05/blackened-salmon-salad-clam-alfredo.html">Clam
Fettuccine</a>, Salad & Fresh Bread</span><span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<u><span style="font-size: 14pt;">11/4, MON:</span></u><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 14pt;">Grilled </span><span style="font-size: 14.5pt;">Ham & Cheese Sandwiches and Salad </span></div>
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<u><span style="font-size: 14pt;">11/5, TUE:</span></u><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 14.5pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><a href="http://aktoidsimpsons.blogspot.com/2013/11/chicken-corn-chowder.html">Chicken Corn Chowder</a> & Garlic Bread</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<u><span style="font-size: 14pt;">11/6, WED:</span></u><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> <u1:p></u1:p> </span><span style="font-size: 19px;">Breakfast (<a href="http://aktoidsimpsons.blogspot.com/2013/10/pumpkin-pancakes.html">Pumpkin Pancakes</a>)</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<u><span style="font-size: 14pt;">11/7, THU:</span></u><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> Mustgo</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<u><span style="font-size: 14pt;">11/8, FRI:</span></u><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> <b>Date Night</b> - </span><span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">Kona Grill/ Varsity Pub<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<u><span style="font-size: 14pt;">11/9, SAT:</span></u><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>Family Movie Night</b></span><span style="font-size: 19px;"> - Buffet</span></div>
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<u><span style="font-size: 14pt;">11/10, SUN:</span></u><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> Roastish & Potatoes</span></div>
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<u><span style="font-size: 14pt;">11/11, MON:</span></u><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> Out to Mongos</span></div>
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<u><span style="font-size: 14pt;">11/12, TUE:</span></u><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 19px;">Beef Soba Noodle Stirfy </span></div>
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<u><span style="font-size: 14pt;">11/13, WED:</span></u><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> Leftovers</span><span style="font-size: 19px;"> </span></div>
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<u><span style="font-size: 14pt;">11/14, THU</span></u><span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">:</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> Ham & Cheese Sammies</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><u>11/15, FRI:</u> Out to Pad Thai</span></div>
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<u><span style="font-size: 14pt;">11/16, SAT:</span></u><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> <b>Fight Event @ Party Barn</b></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<u><span style="font-size: 14pt;">11/17, SUN:</span></u><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> Chicken Salad Pitas</span></div>
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<u><span style="font-size: 14pt;">11/18, MON:</span></u><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> Homemade Pizza</span></div>
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<u><span style="font-size: 14pt;">11/19, TUE:</span></u><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 19px;">Crocked Beef Stroganoff with Rice</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<u><span style="font-size: 14pt;">11/20, WED:</span></u><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 19px;">Mustgo</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<u><span style="font-size: 14pt;">11/21, THU:</span></u><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 19px;">Taco Ring</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<u><span style="font-size: 14pt;">11/22, FRI:</span></u><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> <b>Alexias School Play</b> </span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<u><span style="font-size: 14pt;">11/23, SAT:</span></u><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> <b>BSU Game- </b>Cheesy Rotini w/ Veggies + </span><span style="font-size: 19px;">Ham & White Bean Soup </span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<u><span style="font-size: 14pt;">11/24, SUN:</span></u><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> <b>Audreys Birthday @ Red Lobster</b></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<u><span style="font-size: 14pt;">11/25, MON:</span></u><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> Mustgo</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<u><span style="font-size: 14pt;">11/26, TUE:</span></u><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> Out to Mongos </span></div>
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<u><span style="font-size: 14pt;">11/27, WED:</span></u><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 19px;">Homemade Pretzels & Hot Mustard</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<u><span style="font-size: 14pt;">11/28, THU</span></u><span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">:</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> <b>THANKSGIVING @ Smiths</b></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<u><span style="font-size: 14pt;">11/29, FRI:</span></u><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> <b>Black Friday</b></span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b> Event at BoaB</b></span><span style="font-size: 19px;"> -</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;">Turkey Wild Rice Casserole</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<u><span style="font-size: 14pt;">11/30, SAT:</span></u><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 14pt;">Salmon Benedict with a Garlic Crumpet</span><span style="font-size: 19px;"> & Home Fries/ </span><span style="font-size: 19px;">Beef Barley Soup</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><a href="http://aktoidsimpsons.blogspot.com/2013/10/october-2013-meal-planning.html">October
2013 Dinners</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><a href="http://aktoidsimpsons.blogspot.com/2013/09/september-meal-planning.html">September
2013 Dinners</a></span><span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><a href="http://aktoidsimpsons.blogspot.com/2013/08/august-meal-planning.html">August
2013 Dinners</a></span><span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><a href="http://aktoidsimpsons.blogspot.com/2013/06/july-meal-planning.html">July
2013 Dinners</a></span><span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><a href="http://aktoidsimpsons.blogspot.com/2013/06/june-2013-dinners.html">June
2013 Dinners</a></span><span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><a href="http://www.aktoidsimpsons.blogspot.com/2013/05/may-2013-dinners.html">May
2013 Dinners</a></span><span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><a href="http://www.aktoidsimpsons.blogspot.com/2013/03/april-2013-dinners.html">April
2013 Dinners</a></span><span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><a href="http://aktoidsimpsons.blogspot.com/2013/03/march-2013-dinners.html">March
2013 Dinners</a></span><span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><a href="http://aktoidsimpsons.blogspot.com/2013/02/february-2013-dinners.html">February
2013 Dinners</a></span><span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><a href="http://aktoidsimpsons.blogspot.com/2013/01/january-2013-dinners.html">January
2013 Dinners</a></span><span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Kristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16957641143826741674noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4392558138599022443.post-79032686660554524142013-10-18T15:34:00.004-07:002013-10-18T15:34:51.445-07:00Pumpkin Oatmeal White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Pumpkin Addicts Anonymous... Day #3.</div>
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<i>For roughly 5 Dozen
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In a mixer:</div>
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4 eggs</div>
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1 ¼ Cup Brown Sugar</div>
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1 ¼ Cup White Sugar</div>
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1 TBSP (or more) Vanilla</div>
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¾ C (actually 1 ¾ Sticks) Softened Butter</div>
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1 C Pumpkin Puree</div>
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½ C Applesauce</div>
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1 tbsp Cinnamon</div>
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Once the above is mixed well, add:</div>
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¾ tsp Cream of Tartar</div>
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2 tsp Baking Soda</div>
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4 tsp Baking Powder</div>
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3 Cups flour</div>
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4-5 Cups Oatmeal (Watch consistency)</div>
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Then add:</div>
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1 bag of white chocolate chips</div>
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1.5- 2 cups dried Cranberries (Mine were strawberry flavored)</div>
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Preheat oven to 325 degrees.</div>
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Using Medium Scoop, prepare 2 cookie sheets at a time with dough 1-2”
apart.</div>
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Place cookie sheets on top and bottom rack. Switch sheet positions at exactly 7 minutes
and remove both immediately at 14 mins. </div>
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Let cool on rack.</div>
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Enjoy!</div>
Kristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16957641143826741674noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4392558138599022443.post-28372108747826738442013-10-16T12:16:00.001-07:002013-10-16T12:16:21.756-07:00Pumpkin Gnocci<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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OK. I get it.... My pumpkin fetish is in FULL TILT!</div>
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I've been wanting to make Homemade <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gnocchi">Gnocchi</a> for quite some time....... (Call me Italian) and I'm also on a mission to make/use pumpkin as much as possible right now! See yesterday's post <a href="http://aktoidsimpsons.blogspot.com/2013/10/pumpkin-pancakes.html">here</a>. So... I googled the basic idea of making Gnocchi and developed this recipe for a quick and easy treat!<br />
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First, you need about 1.5 Cups of Pumpkin (Perfect... the other half of the can that I used to make pancakes). <br />
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Put that in a mixer with 1 egg yolk and 1/4 tsp of salt.<br />
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Mix well, then add between 2.5- 4 cups of flour and let knead (with a dough hook) until the consistency is not sticky as all get out!<br />
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* My dough was WAY sticky so I actually had to knead about 1 1/2 cups MORE flour into it (So a total of about 4 cups). <br />
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Totally annoying. <br />
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I don't suggest doing this.<br />
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Next take your dough ball and cut into 4-6 equal portions.<br />
One portion at a time, roll into a rope.<br />
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Sprinkle top of rope with flour and then cut in 1" x 1/2" pieces.<br />
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Using a fork, and 'pinching' the sides of the pieces- so you don't smash them, press the fork down on the top to create crevasses.<br />
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Boil the Gnocchi for 2-3 minutes or until they float.<br />
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Drain on paper towels.<br />
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Pan-fry boiled Gnocchi on med high heat in butter, crushed garlic & sage.<br />
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Top with Parmesan Cheese.<br />
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I will probably try this with zucchini soon too!!!<br />
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Maybe a cinnamon sugar pumpkin Gnocchi would be good! Or..... I bet I could create a 'pumpkin' crust for pumpkin pie easily.... oh dear...... NOW my hamster wheel is spinning! Stay tuned ;)Kristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16957641143826741674noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4392558138599022443.post-77889932890395112372013-10-15T12:51:00.000-07:002015-08-13T08:04:22.528-07:00Pumpkin Pancakes<a href="//www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/" data-pin-do="buttonBookmark" data-pin-color="red" data-pin-height="28"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pinit_fg_en_rect_red_28.png" /></a>
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I've seriously lost my mind.... I want pumpkin everything. I decided that over the next several weeks I am going to make pumpkin scones, muffins, bread, snicker doodles, ice cream, cheesecake, danishes, chocolate chip cookies, pull apart bread, homemade puree, frappes.... oh just about anything I can throw pumpkin in....<br />
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On Sunday mornings we ALWAYS have real breakfast. I wanted to surprise the family with something super tasty and pumpkin pancakes were the winner!<br />
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This is easy, and from scratch!<br />
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You'll need:<br />
3 Eggs<br />
3/4 C Brown Sugar<br />
1/2 C Applesauce<br />
1 Tbsp Vanilla<br />
1/2 tsp Cream of Tartar<br />
(Mix until it starts to get foamy)<br />
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Add:<br />
1/4 tsp Salt<br />
1 tsp Cinnamon<br />
1/2 tsp Cloves<br />
1 1/2 C pumpkin<br />
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1 Cup Milk of your choice<br />
2 Cups Flour of your choice<br />
4 tsp Baking Powder<br />
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Grease your griddle with cooking spray.<br />
Preheat at a med to low flame.<br />
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Using about 1/4 Cup of batter for each pancake, spread thinly on griddle. These are POOFY and thick, so you want to cook a bit lower and slower to get cooked all the way through.<br />
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Flip to other side when you can see the edges are getting dried out.<br />
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Serve with butter and syrup or nothing at all.<br />
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These are so awesome, I actually gave up my Bacon so I could justify seconds of the pancakes.<br />
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DELISH!<br />
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P.S. If there are ANY leftovers.... Freeze them!<br />
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Round #TWO:<br />
I got overambitious and this is how many pancakes I got to freeze for later :)<br />
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<br />Kristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16957641143826741674noreply@blogger.com0