My doctor is the nicest, sweetest person in the world. So why do I hate going to the doctor? I think it all started when I was pregnant with my last child. She's 11 now, so you'd think I'd be over it, but the mind is a funny thing.
When I was nearing the end of my last pregnancy I was pre-eclampsic and there was deep concern about the baby and I since pre-eclampsia can kill both mother and child. So I was brought in twice a week during the last few weeks and our daughter ended up being delivered 3 weeks early. During those last weeks I developed a deep revulsion to the smell of the hand soap in the doctor's office bathroom and being at the doctor's office made me ill. I was thoroughly sick of doctors' offices and the helpless feeling I had while there. I think it has carried over to my feelings about doctors even today, much as I'd like it not to.
So today, all I had to do was see my doctor so that I could continue receiving my blood pressure meds, the only prescription drug I take. But I was a basket case! This went so deep in my psyche that all of my stress controlling methods didn't work.
I confessed to my doctor this issue I have and she was so sympathetic. She even said she doesn't like going to the doctor either! But she didn't scold me for waiting over 2 years to go in for a visit, and she gently asked me if I had been having regular mammograms (not recently), and she mentioned the "c" word. You know that when you turn 50 they start pestering you to get a colonoscopy, right? Yes, that lovely marker of old age. Nothing like those constant reminders, eh?
Well, she got as far as convincing me to get another mammogram (scheduled next week), but I'll have to work up the courage to get the "c" thing. Hubs had it done and said the worst of it was the stuff you drink the day before, I guess to clean everything out. *sigh* You know what I think of when I think of a colonoscopy? President Bush. The younger one. Polyps, yep. Bush +polyps=colonoscopy.
So, a fun and stressful day it was. Oh, and besides all of that fun I found out that I'm driving around with an expired driver's license! (since my birthday on the 9th), and joy oh, joy, I get to go down to the DMV to get my picture renewed if I want to keep driving. It's about time. The pic on my current one is from 1996! I was wondering when they were going to get around to wanting a new one. But not a peep from them on the matter. I was totally unaware that I needed to renew until I was filling out a form for our refi and was asked the expiration date on my license. Suuuure, lessee, 2-9-2012?? Oh, great! One more thing on my stress pile! Nothing in the mail to let me know it was expiring. Didn't they usually let me know, or was I dreaming that? Then the news about needing a new pic while trying to renew online. Thanks!
Yeah, a pooey day, I'll not lie. Tomorrow I get the blood work done I should've had done today, but the office person didn't tell me I should be fasting. In fact, she said I didn't have to. Ooookaaay. Maybe if I'm up to it I'll get son to haul me over to the DMV afterward and get that pic taken. Being chauffeured around gets old fast. What will I be like as an old lady??
Okay, enough whining. The 15 yo made a chocolate cake for dessert and I made beef and bean burritos for supper. And Hubs and Son got Son's car fixed. Something about a rotor. Oh, and we've been watching Father Barron's Catholicism dvds and they're wooonderful! Less about the Church in particular, although it IS mentioned when appropriate, and more about Christ. Any Christian would enjoy at least the first 3 episodes (all we've seen). Truly inspiring, and such beautiful scenery.
Uh oh, thunder! Well, thus ends my ramble. Blessings on this challenging day!
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
An out and about kind of day
It was an interesting day, today. I'm tired and my writing will likely show it.
Hubs had to have an inner ear test at the hospital this morning at 8:30, or so we thought. This was a fasting test since he could get dizzy and become sick during the test; so poor guy had to go without his usual omelet and morning coffee. I had to come with him in case he didn't feel well afterward.Then, when we went in to get the paperwork done the girl tells him his appointment was actually at 10:30. Bummer! Two hours to kill!
But we had planned to go by and see daughter, Angie's fiance, Ryan in his hospital room just down the hall from where Hubs was to have his test after we were done. Ryan had recently contracted MRSA and had been in the hospital for almost 2 weeks. He's now recovering well (there's a secret reason for this that I'll share later). In fact, I think they sent him home today. Haven't heard anything since 4 pm, so I'm not sure.
Anywho, so since we had time to kill we visited Ryan before the test rather than after. We also had a nice talk with Angie, who interestingly enough caught us in the hospital's main hallway as we were going in and she was heading out for some breakfast! She thought she was dreaming! What were her parents doing there at 8:30 in the morning?! lol I knew it was God's timing, though. What else could it be?
Poor Ryan. They had him cordoned off in a room by himself because of the MRSA and his low immunity. He is more prone to infections since starting his new Crohn's med. Out of the frying pan into another frying pan, as they say. He got the MRSA most likely because his immunity was compromised.
About the MRSA and the secret to Ryan getting well quickly: Normally, MRSA is hard to get rid of, but a woman named Susan O'Shea in Ireland did some research and found out that MRSA is killed by the extracts of certain wild flowers. Our daughter and Ryan's mom found this out. So they got some Elecampane root extract (must be alcohol-based for potency) and copper sebacate. Apparently, copper destroys MRSA. Who knew? So on Friday, they gave these supplements to Ryan while his white cell count was around 34,000. Normal is 13,000 or below, so his was dangerously high. Within 24 hours his white cell count was down to 15,000!! The doctor said it was a miracle! Little did he know why Ryan got better so fast! After 2 days it was at 12,500! Normal! In 2 days! Up until today they have not told the doctors why Ryan improved so quickly. But if it were me I'd be shouting it from the rooftops! It's an amazing discovery!
Okay, regaining my composure...
So our visit with them was lovely.
Hubs went on to take his test. They put special goggles on him and had him follow red dots here, there and everywhere with his eyes. They did a few other moves where he looked at a certain spot while they pushed him from a sitting to lying down position quickly. Then they blew cold and warm air onto his ear drums which created a spinning sensation and then watched his eye movements. This could've made him sick, but thankfully, he didn't get bad enough for that. The lady before him got very ill and even passed out! So he did rather well.
Once he was done we went to lunch at a nearby Japanese/Chinese restaurant that Hubs had bought an online coupon for: Get $20 of food for $10. Well, neither of us noticed until we sat down at the restaurant that the coupon was for Saturdays and Sundays only, and it expired tomorrow! Drat! Still, the food was good and actually pretty cheap. We ate for around $14 plus tip.
We went home and Hubs worked from home the rest of the day. I snuck in a nap. I'm not used to getting up at 6am. Then we took Littlest to the library (always fun). She's doing a report on Tiger Swallowtail butterflies for her "Insect A Inspect A" badge in scouts.
Littlest wanted mini pizzas for supper, so I whipped up a batch of dough earlier in the evening. When we got home after the library Littlest threw our pizzas together for us while I cleaned the kitchen.
The rest of the evening was spent cleaning the kitchen a second time while Hubs graded science assignments and collapsing in front of my computer and zoning out for awhile.
So tired. It's been a full day.
Hubs had to have an inner ear test at the hospital this morning at 8:30, or so we thought. This was a fasting test since he could get dizzy and become sick during the test; so poor guy had to go without his usual omelet and morning coffee. I had to come with him in case he didn't feel well afterward.Then, when we went in to get the paperwork done the girl tells him his appointment was actually at 10:30. Bummer! Two hours to kill!
But we had planned to go by and see daughter, Angie's fiance, Ryan in his hospital room just down the hall from where Hubs was to have his test after we were done. Ryan had recently contracted MRSA and had been in the hospital for almost 2 weeks. He's now recovering well (there's a secret reason for this that I'll share later). In fact, I think they sent him home today. Haven't heard anything since 4 pm, so I'm not sure.
Anywho, so since we had time to kill we visited Ryan before the test rather than after. We also had a nice talk with Angie, who interestingly enough caught us in the hospital's main hallway as we were going in and she was heading out for some breakfast! She thought she was dreaming! What were her parents doing there at 8:30 in the morning?! lol I knew it was God's timing, though. What else could it be?
Poor Ryan. They had him cordoned off in a room by himself because of the MRSA and his low immunity. He is more prone to infections since starting his new Crohn's med. Out of the frying pan into another frying pan, as they say. He got the MRSA most likely because his immunity was compromised.
About the MRSA and the secret to Ryan getting well quickly: Normally, MRSA is hard to get rid of, but a woman named Susan O'Shea in Ireland did some research and found out that MRSA is killed by the extracts of certain wild flowers. Our daughter and Ryan's mom found this out. So they got some Elecampane root extract (must be alcohol-based for potency) and copper sebacate. Apparently, copper destroys MRSA. Who knew? So on Friday, they gave these supplements to Ryan while his white cell count was around 34,000. Normal is 13,000 or below, so his was dangerously high. Within 24 hours his white cell count was down to 15,000!! The doctor said it was a miracle! Little did he know why Ryan got better so fast! After 2 days it was at 12,500! Normal! In 2 days! Up until today they have not told the doctors why Ryan improved so quickly. But if it were me I'd be shouting it from the rooftops! It's an amazing discovery!
Okay, regaining my composure...
So our visit with them was lovely.
Hubs went on to take his test. They put special goggles on him and had him follow red dots here, there and everywhere with his eyes. They did a few other moves where he looked at a certain spot while they pushed him from a sitting to lying down position quickly. Then they blew cold and warm air onto his ear drums which created a spinning sensation and then watched his eye movements. This could've made him sick, but thankfully, he didn't get bad enough for that. The lady before him got very ill and even passed out! So he did rather well.
Once he was done we went to lunch at a nearby Japanese/Chinese restaurant that Hubs had bought an online coupon for: Get $20 of food for $10. Well, neither of us noticed until we sat down at the restaurant that the coupon was for Saturdays and Sundays only, and it expired tomorrow! Drat! Still, the food was good and actually pretty cheap. We ate for around $14 plus tip.
We went home and Hubs worked from home the rest of the day. I snuck in a nap. I'm not used to getting up at 6am. Then we took Littlest to the library (always fun). She's doing a report on Tiger Swallowtail butterflies for her "Insect A Inspect A" badge in scouts.
Littlest wanted mini pizzas for supper, so I whipped up a batch of dough earlier in the evening. When we got home after the library Littlest threw our pizzas together for us while I cleaned the kitchen.
The rest of the evening was spent cleaning the kitchen a second time while Hubs graded science assignments and collapsing in front of my computer and zoning out for awhile.
So tired. It's been a full day.
Saturday, February 25, 2012
Today's this and that sort of ramble
Today was a gorgeous, but slightly cold kind of day. With all the warm weather we'd been getting the weeds have started sprouting up. Hubs and Son got the yard mostly back in order today, but before they had a chance to whack down all the weeds, Littlest went out and picked me a nosegay of dandelions and henbit. She's such a sweet and sentimental little thing. And when you get up close to these weeds, they really are beautiful, aren't they?
I made this soup again, but this time I eliminated the added salt since there's already a lot in the smoked Gouda cheese and the bacon bits. Didn't miss it at all! Son and Hubs went on and on about the soup. Please forgive me for tooting my own horn, but it really is good! It's very smoky cheese/bacony-flavored, so don't let all that added spinach fool you. It does not taste green, but you get the benefit of it!
I was pretty lazy today except for doing (say it with me) dishes and laundry. I actually did a bit of card making, but haven't finished anything yet.
We've been playing with our new Salad Shooter lately. It grates cheese so easily! I absolutely hate shredding cheese because I get my knuckles in there, too. And who wants to eat someone's knuckles, I ask you? The food processor works, too, but it's not as much fun. ;)
Anyone remember the old Salad Shooter commercial?
We watched Calamity Jane with Doris Day on Netflix for our family movie night. It was a great movie, but we did have to fast forward through a few parts because of the outfits the ladies sometimes wore. Just a bit too skimpy for our tastes. Doris Day was amazingly energetic. Good grief! Can I have some of that energy, please? She was young, I am not. That explains it.
This is my favorite part because I love the domesticity of it:
Well, gotta go. Blessings on your Sunday!
I made this soup again, but this time I eliminated the added salt since there's already a lot in the smoked Gouda cheese and the bacon bits. Didn't miss it at all! Son and Hubs went on and on about the soup. Please forgive me for tooting my own horn, but it really is good! It's very smoky cheese/bacony-flavored, so don't let all that added spinach fool you. It does not taste green, but you get the benefit of it!
I was pretty lazy today except for doing (say it with me) dishes and laundry. I actually did a bit of card making, but haven't finished anything yet.
We've been playing with our new Salad Shooter lately. It grates cheese so easily! I absolutely hate shredding cheese because I get my knuckles in there, too. And who wants to eat someone's knuckles, I ask you? The food processor works, too, but it's not as much fun. ;)
Anyone remember the old Salad Shooter commercial?
We watched Calamity Jane with Doris Day on Netflix for our family movie night. It was a great movie, but we did have to fast forward through a few parts because of the outfits the ladies sometimes wore. Just a bit too skimpy for our tastes. Doris Day was amazingly energetic. Good grief! Can I have some of that energy, please? She was young, I am not. That explains it.
This is my favorite part because I love the domesticity of it:
Well, gotta go. Blessings on your Sunday!
Pizza night
These were last night's supper. Hubs made this Olive Garden pizza:
It was really yummy! He used tomato, red onion, black olives, and pepperoncinis. For the sauce he mixed the Olive Garden salad dressing with some 4-cheese Alfredo sauce. Worked beautifully! He added mozz and Parmesan cheese on top. Next time we'll probably salt the tomatoes. They were a bit too bland.
Littlest made this pepperoni pizza all by herself:
Since I'm trying to do the Lenten fast, I only ate the Olive Garden pizza, but I'll admit I messed up a couple times that day. It'll take awhile for this new habit to sink in.
It was really yummy! He used tomato, red onion, black olives, and pepperoncinis. For the sauce he mixed the Olive Garden salad dressing with some 4-cheese Alfredo sauce. Worked beautifully! He added mozz and Parmesan cheese on top. Next time we'll probably salt the tomatoes. They were a bit too bland.
Littlest made this pepperoni pizza all by herself:
Since I'm trying to do the Lenten fast, I only ate the Olive Garden pizza, but I'll admit I messed up a couple times that day. It'll take awhile for this new habit to sink in.
Friday, February 24, 2012
Pretty porch idea for spring - Build a flower tower
Pat at with brush in hand shared a beautiful and simple idea for a flower display project for the porch or garden. Pretty cool, methinks.
Miraculous stuff
Barbara at Mommy Life was the one who taught me about the amazing Vicks VapoRub cure for coughs.You slather it all over the bottoms of your feet and then cover them with socks.
I have tried this numerous times on myself and the Littlest, and today, my 15 yo is enjoying a cough-free day because of this method.
It works day or night.
She's been coughing a lot lately, and was coughing heavily all this morning until I put it on; and since then she's coughed 2 small coughs and no more.
It really works. Truly miraculous.
Have you tried it before?
Thursday, February 23, 2012
Day's doin's and a plug for a creative lady
Today was bee-utiful! Spring-like weather came in with a wild storm last night and will likely go out with another one. But it was nice while it lasted.
Went to the dentist for a cleaning today and met up with Husband afterwards for a bite at the Atlanta Bread Company. Getting to see my sweetie was a treat.
Their low carb fare is mainly salads. I heard from my dental hygienist that she orders tuna salad there when she wants low carb. Should've tried that. Instead, I had the Caesar salad with grilled chicken added. So-so food, but nicely presented in bowls reminiscent of the Jetsons.
We stopped at the grocery store for a few things after lunch and then went on home to meet up with the house inspector guy. Hubs finished his work day from home. One nice thing about him being a computer guy.
While at the grocery store we picked up some low sodium ham and Swiss for my ham roll-ups. I never thought of looking for low salt versions of those things until the front desk lady at my doctor's office told me Boar's Head makes both. They were a little pricier, but at least my health will be the better for it. They're delicious, in case you wondered. I'll not miss that extra salt one bit!
We got the second season of Hazel in. We pre-ordered it months ago. It's finally released, woot! We loved the first season. I can't count the number of times we've watched it.
Forgot to mention that last month I only went into a store once...I think. I'm pretty sure, anyway. Staying out of the stores helped us save $400 on our grocery bill for the month of January! We only shopped for what we needed. I'm doing the same thing this month. It's hard to not spend money, let me tell you! But it also feels good to just have what we need and not a lot of excess stuff.
Between the savings in groceries and the money we've pooled from other things like my Amazon sales and Hubs' eBay sales and what not, we've added about $1000 to our car fund! My Amazon sales are only trickling in right now and I've not put even one stamp set on there (fear, plain and simple), so this month might not be so spectacular, but we keep on truckin'.
Angie, and her fiance, Ryan are having such a time of it. Both contracted MRSA (staph infection) and he's in the hospital (again). The stress is likely weakening their immune systems and making them more susceptible to health problems. I ask for your prayers for them. It is quite a difficult road they're on.
Brenda at Cozy Little House has THE cutest pillows EVER.
She is a struggling newly-divorced lady who is looking to make a living all by herself. If you can support her, consider buying one of her pillows (after she whips up some more - they are selling like hotcakes!). She is one gifted lady and I'm sure her creativity will take her places.
Well, is anyone else sad that we'll have to wait months and months to see a new Downton Abbey episode?
Cheerio and God bless!
Went to the dentist for a cleaning today and met up with Husband afterwards for a bite at the Atlanta Bread Company. Getting to see my sweetie was a treat.
Their low carb fare is mainly salads. I heard from my dental hygienist that she orders tuna salad there when she wants low carb. Should've tried that. Instead, I had the Caesar salad with grilled chicken added. So-so food, but nicely presented in bowls reminiscent of the Jetsons.
We stopped at the grocery store for a few things after lunch and then went on home to meet up with the house inspector guy. Hubs finished his work day from home. One nice thing about him being a computer guy.
While at the grocery store we picked up some low sodium ham and Swiss for my ham roll-ups. I never thought of looking for low salt versions of those things until the front desk lady at my doctor's office told me Boar's Head makes both. They were a little pricier, but at least my health will be the better for it. They're delicious, in case you wondered. I'll not miss that extra salt one bit!
We got the second season of Hazel in. We pre-ordered it months ago. It's finally released, woot! We loved the first season. I can't count the number of times we've watched it.
Forgot to mention that last month I only went into a store once...I think. I'm pretty sure, anyway. Staying out of the stores helped us save $400 on our grocery bill for the month of January! We only shopped for what we needed. I'm doing the same thing this month. It's hard to not spend money, let me tell you! But it also feels good to just have what we need and not a lot of excess stuff.
Between the savings in groceries and the money we've pooled from other things like my Amazon sales and Hubs' eBay sales and what not, we've added about $1000 to our car fund! My Amazon sales are only trickling in right now and I've not put even one stamp set on there (fear, plain and simple), so this month might not be so spectacular, but we keep on truckin'.
Angie, and her fiance, Ryan are having such a time of it. Both contracted MRSA (staph infection) and he's in the hospital (again). The stress is likely weakening their immune systems and making them more susceptible to health problems. I ask for your prayers for them. It is quite a difficult road they're on.
Brenda at Cozy Little House has THE cutest pillows EVER.
She is a struggling newly-divorced lady who is looking to make a living all by herself. If you can support her, consider buying one of her pillows (after she whips up some more - they are selling like hotcakes!). She is one gifted lady and I'm sure her creativity will take her places.Well, is anyone else sad that we'll have to wait months and months to see a new Downton Abbey episode?
Cheerio and God bless!
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
Dust bunny ramble, sort of
I've been spending so much time reading and reading and reading that I've neglected my house lately. I've kept up with the dishes and the laundry, but my dining room table is a crumb exhibit and my floors are growing dust rabbits! Dusting and scrubbing have gone by the wayside...
...until today. I cleaned our master bath after letting it go a few weeks without a thorough cleaning. Makes me remember why I shouldn't do that. Bleh. It's the "family" bathroom, so it sees a lot of action. FlyLady would chew me out if she saw what it looked like.
The master bedroom is much less dusty, too; and the dust rabbits I found romping around under the bed are now happily playing in the vacuum cleaner bag. Shelves are cleaner and glass is shinier... and I'm tireder.
Tonight is Taco Bell even though we had homemade tacos last night, because Taco Bell is a lot cheaper than other places and I need help! Hubs has worship team duty tonight and needs to leave early, so I don't have the time or brain power needed to come up with a scrumptious and quick meal.
Why am I in a cleaning frenzy? Because I want to make a good impression on the guy who'll be coming out to assess our house tomorrow. We're doing a mortgage refi and need this done before things can proceed. Worth it when you get a 3% interest rate into the bargain! We'll save a couple thousand dollars over the length of the loan and reduce the amount of time we'll have to pay it off. So this is a win-win even with the closing costs.
Well, back to cleaning. But before I go, let me share some Downton Abbey paper dolls that my friend, Melissa shared with me. Hilarious!
...until today. I cleaned our master bath after letting it go a few weeks without a thorough cleaning. Makes me remember why I shouldn't do that. Bleh. It's the "family" bathroom, so it sees a lot of action. FlyLady would chew me out if she saw what it looked like.
The master bedroom is much less dusty, too; and the dust rabbits I found romping around under the bed are now happily playing in the vacuum cleaner bag. Shelves are cleaner and glass is shinier... and I'm tireder.
Tonight is Taco Bell even though we had homemade tacos last night, because Taco Bell is a lot cheaper than other places and I need help! Hubs has worship team duty tonight and needs to leave early, so I don't have the time or brain power needed to come up with a scrumptious and quick meal.
Why am I in a cleaning frenzy? Because I want to make a good impression on the guy who'll be coming out to assess our house tomorrow. We're doing a mortgage refi and need this done before things can proceed. Worth it when you get a 3% interest rate into the bargain! We'll save a couple thousand dollars over the length of the loan and reduce the amount of time we'll have to pay it off. So this is a win-win even with the closing costs.
Well, back to cleaning. But before I go, let me share some Downton Abbey paper dolls that my friend, Melissa shared with me. Hilarious!
Monday, February 20, 2012
Linky hodgepodge
Not coming up with much to blog about lately, so here are some links I thought you'd enjoy.
Lucy at Attic 24 gives a lovely picture tutorial on how to poach eggs. Littlest always picks off any dark specks when I make her a fried egg. Maybe I should try this on her?
I ran across an addictive site called Shelterness for nifty and creative ideas whilst looking for a holder for my cutting boards.
Check out this cute cottage table runner.
I'll add more later. But right now Downton Abbey is calling me!
Lucy at Attic 24 gives a lovely picture tutorial on how to poach eggs. Littlest always picks off any dark specks when I make her a fried egg. Maybe I should try this on her?
I ran across an addictive site called Shelterness for nifty and creative ideas whilst looking for a holder for my cutting boards.
Check out this cute cottage table runner.
I'll add more later. But right now Downton Abbey is calling me!
Saturday, February 18, 2012
Progress on my latest embroidery project
I had to order the thread I needed for the columbines on the Colorado square. I wanted to use DMC #95 to match this flower, and the only way I could get it locally was to spend $20 on a whole set of variegated threads. So eBay to the rescue!I actually had to buy size 8 perle cotton thread in a ball, much more thread than I'll actually need. But I enjoy using it. You can see how thick it is in the bottom pic. It's a single thread rather than 6 strands like regular embroidery floss. Someday I'll have to delve into this kind of thread more heavily.
I chose to fill in the columbine flowers on this one, unlike the sampler that Turkey Feathers did. I tried to do it like she did with this new thread, but it just didn't look right. I certainly don't mind doing a satin stitch! I need to increase my stitch library so I can be more adventurous!
Here is a close-up. I love the cool variegated patchiness of the flower:
That's what I've got done so far.
New faith journey blog
Since not everyone is interested in my faith journey, I've started a new blog for that subject.
You can find it here:
Ancient Heart
P.S. I moved the last post over there in case you wonder where it went.
You can find it here:
Ancient Heart
P.S. I moved the last post over there in case you wonder where it went.
Friday, February 17, 2012
Crazy week ramble
For me a crazy week is a few things happening in succession that throw me off kilter. I imagine I'm a wimp when it comes to perseverance, but I do my best.
Sweet future son-in-love Ryan is back in the hospital with a staph infection. Between his new med for Crohn's symptoms and the steroids he's on, his immunity is a little shaky. He spent all day Monday in the ER hoping to be admitted for pain issues, but wasn't. Apparently, sitting around the ER all day gave him a staph infection. He's finally in the hospital and on two antibiotics. Poor guy! He doesn't deserve this. Our daughter, Angie is frayed from all the stress. Your prayers for them would be greatly appreciated.
Also, Monday was the younger girls' Valentine's Day party for their AHG troop and it was a very fun evening. The girls were split up by units and things went really well that way. Each unit brought their own food and decorations. I got to go back and forth between daughters' groups. Littlest brought her homemade mini heart biscuits and had strawberry jam on the side. The 15 yo brought cream cheese frosting dip and strawberries. Both offered something red without red dye since some girls in the troop are sensitive to food dyes.
Tuesday (St. Valentine's Day) was busy, but I can't recall why. Oh yeah. We worked on getting the 15 yo caught up on some badge requirements for scouts. She's working on her Dolley Madison Award. Son had to work that evening, so I just needed to feed the girls dinner. I made them bacon and eggs. Later, Hubs made the two of us a delicious dinner (Pasta Milano and Rosemary Bread) and we watched the two-hour Downton Abbey we tried to record Sunday, but failed to get. Thankfully, it was online.
Wednesday, what did we do Wednesday? Laundry, I think.
Thursday, I went to lunch with my dear friend, M. who showered me with little birthday gifts and treated me to a lovely salmon lunch at Cheddar's. We ordered their onion rings. Have you had them? Yuuuum! Then I went by JoAnn craft store and got some stamping stuff with some birthday money. Then I went by a Catholic friend's house to drop off my phone number and email address so we could get back in touch with each other. As soon as I got home Son took the 15 yo to Hubs's office and went on to work. Hubs later took her to her violin lesson. While all that went on I made red beans and rice and corn bread for supper. Crazy day.
Today I got a call from my Catholic friend and chatted with her for awhile. Then the Internet went down and so did our phone. (We use Ooma). Then I started feeling the monthly yuck creeping in. Oh, joy. I was going to bring the 15 yo to a scout event, but Hubs will end up doing it now. In the meantime, the 11 yo is making pizza dough for dinner while I become nearly useless with pain. I have my coffee and ibuprofen and I'm functioning. The weird thing is I'm 9 days late because of those dang water pills I took. I stopped taking them LAST SATURDAY and it took that long to start up. I'm pretty clockworkish on the monthlies, so this was truly strange.
Forgot to tell oldest daughter that tonight's family birthday plans were postponed. Bad parent! Thankfully, she called and I was able to inform her.
Sorry I've not been responsive in the last few days. Just kind of spinning, ya know?
Btw, Hubs has consented to letting me go forward with my desire to become Catholic (some of you already know this). I am just in the discerning process right now, nervous and excited.
Blessings on your day!
Sweet future son-in-love Ryan is back in the hospital with a staph infection. Between his new med for Crohn's symptoms and the steroids he's on, his immunity is a little shaky. He spent all day Monday in the ER hoping to be admitted for pain issues, but wasn't. Apparently, sitting around the ER all day gave him a staph infection. He's finally in the hospital and on two antibiotics. Poor guy! He doesn't deserve this. Our daughter, Angie is frayed from all the stress. Your prayers for them would be greatly appreciated.
Also, Monday was the younger girls' Valentine's Day party for their AHG troop and it was a very fun evening. The girls were split up by units and things went really well that way. Each unit brought their own food and decorations. I got to go back and forth between daughters' groups. Littlest brought her homemade mini heart biscuits and had strawberry jam on the side. The 15 yo brought cream cheese frosting dip and strawberries. Both offered something red without red dye since some girls in the troop are sensitive to food dyes.
Tuesday (St. Valentine's Day) was busy, but I can't recall why. Oh yeah. We worked on getting the 15 yo caught up on some badge requirements for scouts. She's working on her Dolley Madison Award. Son had to work that evening, so I just needed to feed the girls dinner. I made them bacon and eggs. Later, Hubs made the two of us a delicious dinner (Pasta Milano and Rosemary Bread) and we watched the two-hour Downton Abbey we tried to record Sunday, but failed to get. Thankfully, it was online.
Wednesday, what did we do Wednesday? Laundry, I think.
Thursday, I went to lunch with my dear friend, M. who showered me with little birthday gifts and treated me to a lovely salmon lunch at Cheddar's. We ordered their onion rings. Have you had them? Yuuuum! Then I went by JoAnn craft store and got some stamping stuff with some birthday money. Then I went by a Catholic friend's house to drop off my phone number and email address so we could get back in touch with each other. As soon as I got home Son took the 15 yo to Hubs's office and went on to work. Hubs later took her to her violin lesson. While all that went on I made red beans and rice and corn bread for supper. Crazy day.
Today I got a call from my Catholic friend and chatted with her for awhile. Then the Internet went down and so did our phone. (We use Ooma). Then I started feeling the monthly yuck creeping in. Oh, joy. I was going to bring the 15 yo to a scout event, but Hubs will end up doing it now. In the meantime, the 11 yo is making pizza dough for dinner while I become nearly useless with pain. I have my coffee and ibuprofen and I'm functioning. The weird thing is I'm 9 days late because of those dang water pills I took. I stopped taking them LAST SATURDAY and it took that long to start up. I'm pretty clockworkish on the monthlies, so this was truly strange.
Forgot to tell oldest daughter that tonight's family birthday plans were postponed. Bad parent! Thankfully, she called and I was able to inform her.
Sorry I've not been responsive in the last few days. Just kind of spinning, ya know?
Btw, Hubs has consented to letting me go forward with my desire to become Catholic (some of you already know this). I am just in the discerning process right now, nervous and excited.
Blessings on your day!
Saturday, February 11, 2012
Post-birthday ramble
It's freezing cold and windy here. All weekend we're supposed to be getting some real winter weather.
Yes, I had a birthday as my post title says. The big 5-0. Goody. I had a lovely celebration with just the kids at home and Hubs and I'll have the grown-moved-away kids and grandkids over soon for a bigger to-do.
On my birthday (Thursday to be precise) I woke to my 15 yo daughter fixing me a delicious omelet. Then Hubs came in with some roses in a pretty red vase.
Then Littlest went out to run errands with Hubs (who took off work for my birthday) and returned home with these. Wasn't that sweet of her?
The white lilies smell so sweet! They overpowered the roses!
For supper I asked Hubs if he would make me a steak, baked potato and a salad like Olive Garden's. It was amazingly good! (no pics, sorry)
Son had to work that night, so we waited till he got home to have presents and cake. I requested a tres leche cake and boy, was it good! I don't think there's a better cake than tres leche. If it were only a little bigger. It disappeared too fast.
The kids presented me with several of my favorite foods as gifts (these are within their price ranges): I got guacamole chips and coffee and cream chocolates from ALDI - one from each of the girls - and a Whitman sampler from Hubs. I asked Hubs if I could pick one big gift out for myself. He obliged, so I'm trying to decide what to get. And Son gave me another favorite candy: Almond Roca! I love having a candy stash I can go to whenever I like and I can stretch this stuff out pretty far. The kids always joke about my ability to wait a long time to eat my part of anything we buy, goody-wise. They have theirs eaten up in a day. Mine lasts for months.
The next day I was surprised by a package in the mail from sweet Teresa. She sent me the most awesome book about British hymns and their history in gorgeous pictures. And the book has a cd that accompanies it with the songs mentioned in the book. How cool is that?
And her card has a magnet on the front that will go on my fridge right after I'm done posting this. Thank you so much again, Teresa!!
My parents were also very generous to me and now I have some extra money to spend. On what I don't know. But I look forward to trying to figure it out.
I made another batch of kale chips again. This time I used whole kale rather than chopped. It was easier to remove the stems, but it did require a good washing, unlike the bagged kind. So both have their good and their bad. I think I'd rather wash and rip into smaller pieces than hunt for every piece of stem. They turned out delicious, as usual. This is my third batch and I must now keep these in the house at all times. They are so good and so nutritious! Crunchy and cheesy and salty. Mmmmmmm. Yes, dried green veggies are yum-o!
Son had a great idea for a pizza combo that we've had twice now. You use 4-cheese Alfredo sauce as the pizza sauce and sprinkle kale chips on top, not too heavy. Then you top with grated Parmesan. We add a little Mozzarella, too, although he didn't use it the first time he made it. This combo tastes a lot like the spinach pizza at our local Stevi B's pizza. Yummy!
Hubs has a good idea for another pizza combo I'd like to try: an Olive Garden pizza! Black olives, red onion, pepperoncinis, tomato slices, grated parmesan. Not sure which type of sauce he'd pick, but maybe a creamy Italian or the 4-cheese Alfredo? Must experiment!
Last night we watched an amazing movie on Netflix. It's called Miracle of the Bells starring Fred MacMurray, Frank Sinatra and an incredible actress by the name of Alida Valli. If you watch it keep the tissues within reach. It's a very moving story.
I've discovered that water pills (OTC diuretics) will make your period run late. Dern! I took them each day this week because they really help with the bloating, but I'm now 3 days late because of them. But at least I feel better than I thought I would. Wonder how long it could delay things?
Are you ready for the 2-hour Downton Abbey episode tomorrow night? We're recording it to watch later. Could things become any more convoluted in this series? lol My, my.
Ryan proposed to our daughter, Angie last night! We've very, very happy about this!
Well, I think my ramble is over for now. God bless you all. Have a lovely day of rest tomorrow!
Yes, I had a birthday as my post title says. The big 5-0. Goody. I had a lovely celebration with just the kids at home and Hubs and I'll have the grown-moved-away kids and grandkids over soon for a bigger to-do.
On my birthday (Thursday to be precise) I woke to my 15 yo daughter fixing me a delicious omelet. Then Hubs came in with some roses in a pretty red vase.
Then Littlest went out to run errands with Hubs (who took off work for my birthday) and returned home with these. Wasn't that sweet of her?
The white lilies smell so sweet! They overpowered the roses!
For supper I asked Hubs if he would make me a steak, baked potato and a salad like Olive Garden's. It was amazingly good! (no pics, sorry)
Son had to work that night, so we waited till he got home to have presents and cake. I requested a tres leche cake and boy, was it good! I don't think there's a better cake than tres leche. If it were only a little bigger. It disappeared too fast.
The kids presented me with several of my favorite foods as gifts (these are within their price ranges): I got guacamole chips and coffee and cream chocolates from ALDI - one from each of the girls - and a Whitman sampler from Hubs. I asked Hubs if I could pick one big gift out for myself. He obliged, so I'm trying to decide what to get. And Son gave me another favorite candy: Almond Roca! I love having a candy stash I can go to whenever I like and I can stretch this stuff out pretty far. The kids always joke about my ability to wait a long time to eat my part of anything we buy, goody-wise. They have theirs eaten up in a day. Mine lasts for months.
The next day I was surprised by a package in the mail from sweet Teresa. She sent me the most awesome book about British hymns and their history in gorgeous pictures. And the book has a cd that accompanies it with the songs mentioned in the book. How cool is that?
And her card has a magnet on the front that will go on my fridge right after I'm done posting this. Thank you so much again, Teresa!!
My parents were also very generous to me and now I have some extra money to spend. On what I don't know. But I look forward to trying to figure it out.
I made another batch of kale chips again. This time I used whole kale rather than chopped. It was easier to remove the stems, but it did require a good washing, unlike the bagged kind. So both have their good and their bad. I think I'd rather wash and rip into smaller pieces than hunt for every piece of stem. They turned out delicious, as usual. This is my third batch and I must now keep these in the house at all times. They are so good and so nutritious! Crunchy and cheesy and salty. Mmmmmmm. Yes, dried green veggies are yum-o!
Son had a great idea for a pizza combo that we've had twice now. You use 4-cheese Alfredo sauce as the pizza sauce and sprinkle kale chips on top, not too heavy. Then you top with grated Parmesan. We add a little Mozzarella, too, although he didn't use it the first time he made it. This combo tastes a lot like the spinach pizza at our local Stevi B's pizza. Yummy!
Hubs has a good idea for another pizza combo I'd like to try: an Olive Garden pizza! Black olives, red onion, pepperoncinis, tomato slices, grated parmesan. Not sure which type of sauce he'd pick, but maybe a creamy Italian or the 4-cheese Alfredo? Must experiment!
Last night we watched an amazing movie on Netflix. It's called Miracle of the Bells starring Fred MacMurray, Frank Sinatra and an incredible actress by the name of Alida Valli. If you watch it keep the tissues within reach. It's a very moving story.
I've discovered that water pills (OTC diuretics) will make your period run late. Dern! I took them each day this week because they really help with the bloating, but I'm now 3 days late because of them. But at least I feel better than I thought I would. Wonder how long it could delay things?
Are you ready for the 2-hour Downton Abbey episode tomorrow night? We're recording it to watch later. Could things become any more convoluted in this series? lol My, my.
Ryan proposed to our daughter, Angie last night! We've very, very happy about this!
Well, I think my ramble is over for now. God bless you all. Have a lovely day of rest tomorrow!
Pass this along, please.
If you take pictures on a smart phone and post them on the Web, watch this. Then change your settings!
H/T Mommy Life
H/T Mommy Life
Obama's new "accommodation" worse than previous health care mandate
Should anyone even trust our president anymore? Has he not proved to be a slippery snake in all things governmental? Yet again he is showing his true colors.
The new "accommodation" in health plans is worse, much worse than the old.
Please, Lord, not 4 more years with this man! Mercy!
The new "accommodation" in health plans is worse, much worse than the old.
Please, Lord, not 4 more years with this man! Mercy!
Monday, February 6, 2012
Safely freezing Leidenheimer (French) bread
My mom taught me this trick. She freezes meats this way and never has to deal with freezer burn since she began doing this. I've done this with meats (pork loin roasts, chicken breasts, ground beef...) and also breads. And I keep mold off cheeses in the fridge this way. It's really an amazing way to preserve food.
You wrap the food tightly in plastic wrap. The important thing is to get as much air out as possible. Air is your enemy when freezing food. Try to avoid air pockets. They'll be where the freezer burn starts.
With bread it's trickier than with meat because it's lighter and gives easier when pressed. But it works.
Once you have the bread wrapped up, place it in Ziploc bags and press out as much air from them as you can. Label and freeze.
To successfully thaw the Leidenheimer bread (or any French bread) so it tastes just as good as fresh, remove it from the bag and plastic wrap, lay it on a cookie sheet and thaw it slowly in a warm oven (about 170-200 degrees) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. Crisps on the outside and stays soft on the inside.
You wrap the food tightly in plastic wrap. The important thing is to get as much air out as possible. Air is your enemy when freezing food. Try to avoid air pockets. They'll be where the freezer burn starts.
With bread it's trickier than with meat because it's lighter and gives easier when pressed. But it works.
Once you have the bread wrapped up, place it in Ziploc bags and press out as much air from them as you can. Label and freeze.
To successfully thaw the Leidenheimer bread (or any French bread) so it tastes just as good as fresh, remove it from the bag and plastic wrap, lay it on a cookie sheet and thaw it slowly in a warm oven (about 170-200 degrees) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. Crisps on the outside and stays soft on the inside.
It's Leidenheimer time again!
Over the weekend, Husband went to see his mother and one of his brothers in Louisiana. While there, they ate homemade fried oyster po boys and sandwiches from their favorite local bbq place. I asked him to bring home some of our favorite French bread. Even though I know how I feel eating wheat, sometimes you're just willing to suffer a little, ya know?
Look at this monstrous bag! This was what the loaves came in.
We had roast beef po boys au jus on Leidenheimer bread for supper. Oh, man, it was good, but now comes payback time for me. Aches and pains and stiffness. Worth it, though.
Sunday, February 5, 2012
Latest state flower quilt square and my next 2 projects
I finished the Wyoming square the other day and finally got some pics taken. This one was almost totally satin stitched!
I get such satisfaction out of this hobby. It's very tactile and I love all the textures of the different stitches. If you embroider, do you enjoy running your fingers over the stitches, too? I feel the same way about my cards. That's why I love my Cuttlebug so much.
Here are my next 2 projects - Hawaii and Colorado:
I'm doing Colorado first. I love columbines! I have some in my front yard. They come back every year in April. The eery thing is that they bloom around the same time the Columbine High School massacre in Littleton, Colorado took place (April 20, 1999). It's a yearly reminder to me of that terrible event. I participated in a cross stitch quilt project that year to show support to those who suffered through that event. I'm reminded of that quilt project every time I see my columbines in bloom. It's all interconnected. Anywho...
The directions call for a variegated purple thread so I'll have to get some. I only own the pink kind. There are pink columbines, but I want to stick with the purple.
I like keeping 2 or more squares together as the extra fabric holds things on the hoop better, especially when stitching the outer corners of the design. Too many squares together and the fabric just gets in the way. Kind of like having your hair fall in your eyes. Annoying! Bad Feng shui! lol
I have all the thread colors picked and ready to use (except the variegated purple).
All ready to go!
I get such satisfaction out of this hobby. It's very tactile and I love all the textures of the different stitches. If you embroider, do you enjoy running your fingers over the stitches, too? I feel the same way about my cards. That's why I love my Cuttlebug so much.
Here are my next 2 projects - Hawaii and Colorado:
I'm doing Colorado first. I love columbines! I have some in my front yard. They come back every year in April. The eery thing is that they bloom around the same time the Columbine High School massacre in Littleton, Colorado took place (April 20, 1999). It's a yearly reminder to me of that terrible event. I participated in a cross stitch quilt project that year to show support to those who suffered through that event. I'm reminded of that quilt project every time I see my columbines in bloom. It's all interconnected. Anywho...
The directions call for a variegated purple thread so I'll have to get some. I only own the pink kind. There are pink columbines, but I want to stick with the purple.
I like keeping 2 or more squares together as the extra fabric holds things on the hoop better, especially when stitching the outer corners of the design. Too many squares together and the fabric just gets in the way. Kind of like having your hair fall in your eyes. Annoying! Bad Feng shui! lol
I have all the thread colors picked and ready to use (except the variegated purple).
All ready to go!
Saturday, February 4, 2012
Early February rambly roo
It's been a dreary weather kind of day today; but the sun is starting to show itself. We've actually had some lovely spring-like weather recently, so I'll try not to complain about the blah parts.
Littlest is sick with something, mainly a fever that's a bit high (went up to almost 103, so far). Funny thing is, she feels better lying in bed than sitting in a recliner. So that's where she is, napping. I gave her a little bell to ring when she needs something. But I'm checking on her often, so not a lot of need for the bell.
Just a lazy day otherwise.
I've made her some lemon and lime Jello to eat later and I actually got her to take in some oatmeal and a grape popsicle. But other than that she's not eating. Just water, mainly.
We've been watching some great old movies on Netflix lately. I feel like I'm catching up on all the stars I missed growing up and hearing about - you know, like Laurel and Hardy, Abbott and Costello, Fred Astaire, Bing Crosby.... So many great entertainers from the past. We've been on an Abbott and Costello kick of late.
Last night for pizza night we watched the Abbott and Costello film, Dance with Me, Henry.
Here's Netflix's description:
Abbott and Costello wind up on the wrong side of the law in their final film together. Kiddieland owner Lou (Lou Costello) becomes a suspect when the D.A. investigating the gambling debts owed by Lou's pal Bud (Bud Abbott) is killed. Toss in some angry mobsters and social workers who threaten to take Lou's two adopted kids away, and it's one wild ride at the amusement park as the slapstick-comedy duo tries to stay one step ahead of trouble.
We also recently watched Abbott and Costello Meet the Mummy and Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein. Good family fun! We have yet to see The Noose Hangs High. Those are the ones on Netflix right now.
While watching these films, I can't help thinking how much Sean Hannity looks like Lou Costello! Don't you think so? lol
And just for my kids, here's the Abbott and Costello Who's on First routine which was not in any of the movies I mentioned:
I opened my stamp blog again. Hoping it will stir my desire to stamp again. Maybe I'll just make a simple card at first. I actually enjoy them better anyway, and it doesn't kill a whole afternoon to make one.
These lollipops made with xylitol are yum-ee! And they're good for your teeth. I got one at the dentist's office of all places! Yes, hard candy from a dentist!
I've been trying some different products that are supposed to be better for you for whatever reason, and I've wanted to share my findings with you.
One of them is palm oil shortening. It works like Crisco, but it's not hydrogenated! It's a little harder to work with ( a bit stiffer), but it performs amazingly in baked goods. We've done corn bread and biscuits, the two foods that truly put it to the test, and both came out wonderfully! Better, even, than Crisco!
I tried coconut oil (looks like shortening unless warmed) and it didn't perform as well. The baked goods were crumbly and had a heavy coconut smell and flavor. But the palm shortening is both scentless and tasteless and doesn't interfere with the results in any negative way.
Another product I've been using is xylitol. I have it in my tea and sometimes in my coffee. I've made my homemade Nesquik with it, but it wasn't a good use for it as it turned out grainy when cooked. But it dissolves right away in a hot beverage and stays dissolved. Xylitol is good for your teeth as I mentioned earlier, and it's low glycemic and lower calorie than sugar. And I don't get that sugar rush like I do with, um, sugar, which is why it's called a "sugar" rush. Yeah.
An alternative sweetener I've tried that claims to be good for blood sugar is coconut palm sugar. It's very yummy and caramel-like and reminds me of Sucanat (like a dry brown sugar). I like it with cream in my coffee and find it adds a nice richness to whatever I use it in.
Son found a nice car (finally!) on Craigslist after a lot of looking. The guy he bought it from met him at his church. His pastor even came out to meet Son and Hubs. Apparently, the guy was selling his car to donate the money to his church. Isn't that nice?
The new car is a 5-speed, so Son is getting lessons from his dad on how to drive it. I think Hubs misses driving a 5-speed. He gimped down on behalf of me when he bought his last car so I could drive it as well. I've never learned how to drive a stick shift, although I've tried! Maybe someday I'll give it a go again.
Right now, our neighbor across the street is playing with his motorcycle and revving the engine endlessly. *sigh* Thanks, pal.
Sales are going well at my Amazon store. It's really odd. I'll go for days and days without a sale. Then I'll get 4 in one day from 4 different people. So strange, but I'm getting used to it. I'm just thankful for every sale!
I've signed up for the Pro Merchant account at Amazon and will be listing a bunch of my old Stampin' Up! stamp sets there. With a Pro Merchant account I can now create fresh new listings rather than using the ones already there. Before I had to find an already existing one and sell my items using them. Not always easy depending on what you sell.
I finished my last embroidery project and am working on getting 4 more state flower quilt squares ready to do. I'll share more later.
Dinner will be leftovers. Nothing exciting to report there.
Well, I think I am at the end of this ramble. Have a good weekend and thanks for going on this ramble with me. ;)
Littlest is sick with something, mainly a fever that's a bit high (went up to almost 103, so far). Funny thing is, she feels better lying in bed than sitting in a recliner. So that's where she is, napping. I gave her a little bell to ring when she needs something. But I'm checking on her often, so not a lot of need for the bell.
Just a lazy day otherwise.
I've made her some lemon and lime Jello to eat later and I actually got her to take in some oatmeal and a grape popsicle. But other than that she's not eating. Just water, mainly.
We've been watching some great old movies on Netflix lately. I feel like I'm catching up on all the stars I missed growing up and hearing about - you know, like Laurel and Hardy, Abbott and Costello, Fred Astaire, Bing Crosby.... So many great entertainers from the past. We've been on an Abbott and Costello kick of late.
Last night for pizza night we watched the Abbott and Costello film, Dance with Me, Henry.
Here's Netflix's description:
Abbott and Costello wind up on the wrong side of the law in their final film together. Kiddieland owner Lou (Lou Costello) becomes a suspect when the D.A. investigating the gambling debts owed by Lou's pal Bud (Bud Abbott) is killed. Toss in some angry mobsters and social workers who threaten to take Lou's two adopted kids away, and it's one wild ride at the amusement park as the slapstick-comedy duo tries to stay one step ahead of trouble.
We also recently watched Abbott and Costello Meet the Mummy and Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein. Good family fun! We have yet to see The Noose Hangs High. Those are the ones on Netflix right now.
While watching these films, I can't help thinking how much Sean Hannity looks like Lou Costello! Don't you think so? lol
And just for my kids, here's the Abbott and Costello Who's on First routine which was not in any of the movies I mentioned:
I opened my stamp blog again. Hoping it will stir my desire to stamp again. Maybe I'll just make a simple card at first. I actually enjoy them better anyway, and it doesn't kill a whole afternoon to make one.
These lollipops made with xylitol are yum-ee! And they're good for your teeth. I got one at the dentist's office of all places! Yes, hard candy from a dentist!
I've been trying some different products that are supposed to be better for you for whatever reason, and I've wanted to share my findings with you.
One of them is palm oil shortening. It works like Crisco, but it's not hydrogenated! It's a little harder to work with ( a bit stiffer), but it performs amazingly in baked goods. We've done corn bread and biscuits, the two foods that truly put it to the test, and both came out wonderfully! Better, even, than Crisco!
I tried coconut oil (looks like shortening unless warmed) and it didn't perform as well. The baked goods were crumbly and had a heavy coconut smell and flavor. But the palm shortening is both scentless and tasteless and doesn't interfere with the results in any negative way.
Another product I've been using is xylitol. I have it in my tea and sometimes in my coffee. I've made my homemade Nesquik with it, but it wasn't a good use for it as it turned out grainy when cooked. But it dissolves right away in a hot beverage and stays dissolved. Xylitol is good for your teeth as I mentioned earlier, and it's low glycemic and lower calorie than sugar. And I don't get that sugar rush like I do with, um, sugar, which is why it's called a "sugar" rush. Yeah.
An alternative sweetener I've tried that claims to be good for blood sugar is coconut palm sugar. It's very yummy and caramel-like and reminds me of Sucanat (like a dry brown sugar). I like it with cream in my coffee and find it adds a nice richness to whatever I use it in.
Son found a nice car (finally!) on Craigslist after a lot of looking. The guy he bought it from met him at his church. His pastor even came out to meet Son and Hubs. Apparently, the guy was selling his car to donate the money to his church. Isn't that nice?
The new car is a 5-speed, so Son is getting lessons from his dad on how to drive it. I think Hubs misses driving a 5-speed. He gimped down on behalf of me when he bought his last car so I could drive it as well. I've never learned how to drive a stick shift, although I've tried! Maybe someday I'll give it a go again.
Right now, our neighbor across the street is playing with his motorcycle and revving the engine endlessly. *sigh* Thanks, pal.
Sales are going well at my Amazon store. It's really odd. I'll go for days and days without a sale. Then I'll get 4 in one day from 4 different people. So strange, but I'm getting used to it. I'm just thankful for every sale!
I've signed up for the Pro Merchant account at Amazon and will be listing a bunch of my old Stampin' Up! stamp sets there. With a Pro Merchant account I can now create fresh new listings rather than using the ones already there. Before I had to find an already existing one and sell my items using them. Not always easy depending on what you sell.
I finished my last embroidery project and am working on getting 4 more state flower quilt squares ready to do. I'll share more later.
Dinner will be leftovers. Nothing exciting to report there.
Well, I think I am at the end of this ramble. Have a good weekend and thanks for going on this ramble with me. ;)
Friday, February 3, 2012
Susan G. Komen should not do business with Planned Parenthood
It is a conflict of interest for Susan G. Komen for the Cure to have any connections whatsoever with any abortion provider when it has been shown through numerous studies (check out website's side bar) that abortion increases breast cancer risk (reasons given in accompanying video).
If a woman has an abortion in her first pregnancy her hormones set her body up to be at higher risk for breast cancer. It makes perfect sense, medically, which is why I just don't get it that SGKFTC would even want to be connected with Planned Parenthood, considering that it's the biggest abortion provider.
On the SBK website the founder and CEO, Nancy G. Brinker stated that "Our only goal for our granting process is to support women and families in the fight against breast cancer."
Really?? If that is true then why participate at all with Planned Parenthood? Think about your decision, SGKFTC. I have. I will avoid the pink products until you do the right thing and truly support women. For now, you're funding the problem. And maybe that's what you want? Let's hope not.
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
Almond milk-based chocolate sauce aka Dairy-Free Nesquik
Last night the 15 yo and I each made a batch of homemade Nesquik to test some changes I had made to the recipe.
In the original I used powdered milk and water. This works fine, but it means having to keep powdered milk on hand and most people probably don't.
Also, one of my grown children and a grandson can't tolerate dairy.
So we made one batch with 2 cups of regular milk (2%) and one batch with 2 cups of almond milk (vanilla-flavored). Both turned out great! In fact, I think the consistency was better this time. The almond milk version was thicker than the regular milk version, for some reason.
I did find that the almond milk version needed more salt to taste more like real Nesquik. None of them tastes just like it, but I think it's due to my cocoa powder (bought in bulk - not sure of brand). A different brand might taste a lot better. That's probably the direction I will take next in my experimentation.
For now I have a dairy-free alternative my daughter and grandson can enjoy in some almond or rice milk without the stomach upset. That makes me very happy.
So here's the recipe for the dairy-free version:
Homemade Dairy-Free Nesquik
2 cups sugar
1 cup cocoa powder
2 cups almond milk (I used unsweetened vanilla-flavored)
1/2 tsp. salt
In a medium to large pot (the mixture rises fairly high when boiling, so a bigger pot is critical to avoid overflow), combine the sugar, cocoa powder, almond milk and salt.
Whisk together thoroughly on medium high heat until it comes to a boil. Whisk constantly at first, then often the rest of the time, scraping the bottom religiously with the whisk to keep it from burning. This is less of an issue when using almond milk.
When the mixture comes to a full boil, set the timer for one minute and stir constantly, taking care to avoid splatters. When the minute is up, set it aside to cool. Before allowing it to cool completely, pour through a sieve to remove clumps (it's easier when warm). Once cooled, transfer to a pitcher with a lid. I like those pourable glass orange juice containers, but you may prefer a lighter weight/unbreakable container if your children are younger.
This tastes great in almond milk. I'm sure it's good in any of the other "milks", too.
Enjoy!
In the original I used powdered milk and water. This works fine, but it means having to keep powdered milk on hand and most people probably don't.
Also, one of my grown children and a grandson can't tolerate dairy.
So we made one batch with 2 cups of regular milk (2%) and one batch with 2 cups of almond milk (vanilla-flavored). Both turned out great! In fact, I think the consistency was better this time. The almond milk version was thicker than the regular milk version, for some reason.
I did find that the almond milk version needed more salt to taste more like real Nesquik. None of them tastes just like it, but I think it's due to my cocoa powder (bought in bulk - not sure of brand). A different brand might taste a lot better. That's probably the direction I will take next in my experimentation.
For now I have a dairy-free alternative my daughter and grandson can enjoy in some almond or rice milk without the stomach upset. That makes me very happy.
So here's the recipe for the dairy-free version:
Homemade Dairy-Free Nesquik
2 cups sugar
1 cup cocoa powder
2 cups almond milk (I used unsweetened vanilla-flavored)
1/2 tsp. salt
In a medium to large pot (the mixture rises fairly high when boiling, so a bigger pot is critical to avoid overflow), combine the sugar, cocoa powder, almond milk and salt.
Whisk together thoroughly on medium high heat until it comes to a boil. Whisk constantly at first, then often the rest of the time, scraping the bottom religiously with the whisk to keep it from burning. This is less of an issue when using almond milk.
When the mixture comes to a full boil, set the timer for one minute and stir constantly, taking care to avoid splatters. When the minute is up, set it aside to cool. Before allowing it to cool completely, pour through a sieve to remove clumps (it's easier when warm). Once cooled, transfer to a pitcher with a lid. I like those pourable glass orange juice containers, but you may prefer a lighter weight/unbreakable container if your children are younger.
This tastes great in almond milk. I'm sure it's good in any of the other "milks", too.
Enjoy!
Low carb breakfast
Eating low carb can get kind of boring, so I'm not sticking with it as much as I'd like. But I do feel better when I eat this way. Here's what I had for breakfast this morning:
Ham and Swiss roll-ups with mayo/mustard dipping sauce. Yum!
Ham and Swiss roll-ups with mayo/mustard dipping sauce. Yum!
Amy's Humble Musings
Some of you might know Amy Scott of Amy's Humble Musings; but for those who don't I thought I'd link to her blog so you can enjoy her writings.
For all my friends going through trials (and for myself because I need this, too)
Blessings by Laura Story
Lyrics:
We pray for blessings, we pray for peace
Comfort for family, protection while we sleep
We pray for healing, for prosperity
We pray for Your mighty hand to ease our suffering
And all the while, You hear each spoken need
Yet love us way too much to give us lesser things
Cause what if Your blessings come through raindrops
What if Your healing comes through tears
What if a thousand sleepless nights are what it takes to know You're near
What if trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise?
We pray for wisdom, Your voice to hear
And we cry in anger when we cannot feel you near
We doubt your goodness, we doubt your love
As if each promise from Your Word is not enough
And all the while, You hear each desperate plea
And long that we'd have faith to believe
Cause what if Your blessings come through raindrops
What if Your healing comes through tears
What if a thousand sleepless nights are what it takes to know You're near
What if trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise?
When friends betray us
When darkness seems to win, we know
That pain reminds this hearts,
That this is not, this is not our home.....
It's not our home
Cause what if Your blessings come through raindrops
What if Your healing comes through tears
What if a thousand sleepless nights are what it takes to know You're near
What if trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise?
What if my greatest disappointments,
Or the aching of this life,
Is the revealing of a greater thirst this world can't satisfy.
What if trials of this life,
The rain, the storms, the hardest nights
Are your mercies in disguise?
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