Monday, December 31, 2012

A couple requested recipes

Here is my cabbage and cornbread recipe I am making for New Years Day.

Fried Cabbage

3 T bacon drippings
5 c. coarsely chopped cabbage
1 medium onion, chopped
1 t. salt
dash ground nutmeg
1 ½ t. sugar
cayenne pepper
2 T vinegar

Heat bacon drippings in deep saucepan. Add cabbage, onion, salt and nutmeg. Cover, cook slowly for about 20 minutes, stirring often. Add sugar and cayenne and vinegar.  Go lightly on the cayenne!

Dad's Sausage Cornbread

1 lb. sausage
1 large onion, chopped
2 eggs, lightly beaten
¼ cup vegetable oil
2 c. shredded Cheddar cheese
1 ½ cup cornmeal mix
16 oz. creamed corn
¾ cup buttermilk

Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Grease a 10 inch skillet, set aside. Brown sausage and onion; drain. Combine eggs, cornmeal, corn, milk and oil. Pour ½ of batter into prepared pan. Sprinkle sausage, onion, and cheese on it and pour remaining batter on top. Bake 30-40 minutes. Let cool 10 minutes. Serves 6-8

 Feel free to ask if you have questions,

Pam

Menu for week of December 31st



Monday:  Crockpot of Green Beans, Ham and Potatoes, Leftover Layered Salad from Sunday, Rolls

Tuesday:  New Years Day!  A day of noms and movie watching!   Paula Dean's Chili Dip, and Queso Dip and Chips are two snacks on the menu!  Dinner will be Mixed Beans, Sauteed Cabbage and Dad's Sausage Cornbread.  Yummo!

Wednesday:  Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken, Buns, Slaw and Oven Fries

Thursday:  Beans and Franks in the Crockpot, Leftover Slaw and Cornbread

Friday:  Ham and Cheese Ziti (freeze a pan), Green Veggie or Salad, Rolls

Saturday:  Ranch Crock Pot Chops, Brussel's Sprouts, Loaded Baked Potato Casserole, Corn Cobbettes

Sunday:  Freezer Meal-Ziti with Smoked Sausage, Leftover sides, Rolls

That's my week.  How about you?  Go to  Organizing Junkie for 100's of menu plans.

Thanks for stopping by,

Pam

Tuesday, December 25, 2012

Menu for week of December 24th



Monday:  Spending Christmas Eve with my folks and then our candlelight service at church.

Tuesday:  Spending the day at my mother in law's for a scrumptious Christmas dinner.

Wednesday:  Lovely Christmas Leftovers!

Thursday:  Spaghetti with Meatballs, Texas Toast, Green Veggie

Friday:  Freezer meal-Chicken Cordon Bleu, Macaroni and Cheese, Salad

Saturday:  Ritzy Chicken Casserole, Layered Salad, Rolls

Sunday:  Ham, Potatoes and Green Beans, leftover Layered Salad, Rolls

Thanks for stopping by,

Pam

Monday, December 17, 2012

Menu for week of December 17th


Christmas is just around the corner.  Are you ready?  Does your house smell of the awesomeness of baked goods?  Mine is about to get really busy.  Here is my menu plan for my family this week:

Monday:  Chicken Cordon Bleu, Rice Pilaf, Asparagus

Tuesday:  Quiche, Fruit, Biscuits

Wednesday:  Chicken and Dumplings, Roasted Carrots, Corn on the Cob, Cornbread

Thursday:  White Chicken Chili, Chips and Salsa

Friday:  Lasagna Roll-ups, Salad, Texas Toast

Saturday:  Turkey Burgers, Fries

Sunday:  Taco Casserole, Salad, Rolls

That's my week.  How about your plan?  Go to I'm an Organizing Junkie   to see 100's of menu plans.

Blessings,

Pam

Monday, December 10, 2012

Menuf or week of December 10th


My family caught "the bug" last week and my menu started falling apart about halfway through the week. So you may see some repeats this week that we didn't get to last week.

Monday:  Chicken Chow Mein, Asian Veggies

Tuesday:  Hearty Fiesta Bean Soup, Cheese Quesas

Wednesday:  Turkey and Biscuit Pie (Freeze one), using leftover Turkey from Sunday, Salad, Pumpkin Bread

Thursday:  Freezer Meal, Pasta Fazool, Grilled Cheese

Friday:  Chicken and Dumplings, Corn on the Cob, Roasted Carrots, Cornbread

Saturday:  Pork Chops, Brussels Sprouts, Macaroni and Cheese, Leftover Cornbread

Sunday:  Sausage Quiche (freeze one), Fruit, Biscuits

That's my week. Go to I'm an Organizing Junkie to see 100's of menu plans.

Thanks for stopping by.

Pam

Friday, December 7, 2012

The Homeschooling Mother's Journal


In my life this week...hubby is sick and is home for the third day.  He has a bad cough.  I don't think it is the flu.  Don'tcha just hate it when your husband is sick?

In our homeschool this week...daughter is just plugging along.  We are way behind in pre-algebra.  Ugh...

Places we're going and people we're seeing...we went to Dollywood Sunday afternoon and stayed until dark.  It was fun to ride the train around the property after dark and see all the Christmas lights.  I think this was probably our last trip of the year.

My favorite thing this week...our date night on Friday night.  We had a nice dinner at a favorite restaurant and got to see the new James Bond film, Skyfall.  Did I mention it was a double date with our favorite couple?  I haven't been on a date in so long.

Things I'm working on...I've been doubling quite a few meals and filling our basement freezer.  It feels good to have meals already prepared for those days when I don't feel up to cooking.

I'm grateful for...Christmas and the fact that we can still celebrate it in this country and share the true meaning of the season.

I'm praying for...friends with sick and/or dying loved ones.  My heart goes out to them.





Thanks for stopping by Second Star Academy.  Please come back again!

Pam

Monday, December 3, 2012

Menu for week of December 3rd


I got to most everything on my menu last week except for a couple meals.  We ended up going to Dollywood yesterday so we ate there and Thursday night after a large grocery haul I was tired and we had sandwiches.  So here is my plan for this week:

Today:  German Supper and Corn Casserole

Tuesday:  Turkey Burgers and Oven Fries

Wednesday:  (freezer meal) Lazy Day Lasagna, Salad, French Bread

Thursday:  Hearty Fiesta Bean Soup, Cheese Quesas

Friday:  Roast Turkey Breast, Mashed Potatoes and Gravy, Green Bean Casserole, Cranberry Sauce, Rolls (a belated T'giving dinner together as a family)

Saturday:  Lovely Leftovers?

Sunday:  Sausage Quiche, Fruit, Rolls

That's my plan for this week.  Only new recipe is the Hearty Fiesta Bean Soup.  If we like it I will post the recipe.

Go to I'm an Organizing Junkie  to see 100's of menu plans.

Thanks for stopping by,

Pam

Friday, November 30, 2012

The Homeschool Mother's Journal


It's been a few weeks since I've participated in this blog hop.  We have been out of town and super busy.  But here is what's been happening around here.

In my life this week:  My daughter and I returned from a week out of state and I have spent a good part of this week catching up on laundry, restocking the pantry and fridge and doing lots of cooking.

In our homeschool this week:  It seems like we are forever trying to get caught up.  I'm determined to get daughter through most of her pre-algebra before her SAT's in March so that she can at least have some familiarity with the concepts!  lol

My favorite thing this week:  Coming home.  I love going on vacation but when it is time to return home it always feels so good.  Why is that?  I think I just love my home too much to stay away too long.

Things I'm working on:  Daughter and I have been using the treadmill and exercise bike.  Since we sold our dining room furniture, we have turned out dining room into a gym.  Doesn't everyone peddle on their exercise bike under a brass chandelier?  We do.  It keeps us from walking into it and bumping our head and feeling like an idiot.  lol

I'm reading:  I have way too many books going.  I have been reading three things on my phone at night, Mark Twain's biography, a Lincoln biography and believe it or not a biography of Susan B. Anthony.  All are very interesting.  While on vacation, I bought a book called The Story of England which I think my MIL will enjoy when I am finished with it.  Daughter wants me to read all of her Percy Jackson and the Olympians books.  I want to, but I haven't finished the Harry Potter series yet.  I think I need to curb my Youtube obsession and do more reading.

I'm cooking:  I did a lot of home cooking this week. We ate too much take out on vacation, not the worst food, but not the healthiest either, and I had a hankering for some good cookin'.  I made Texas Lasagna which is a Seay favorite that we haven't had in a while.  I made an extra pan for the freezer.  I made a pot of mixed beans and fried potatoes along with a new recipe of macaroni and cheese this week for a little southern flavor.  I made a long time favorite of sausage casserole along with some yummy green beans and an apple crisp.  I think this was my favorite supper this week.  All of this made for some delicious packed lunches for hubby too.

I'm grateful for: I am most grateful for my family and our love for one another.

I'm praying for:  Family and friends who have lost loved ones in the past few weeks and have very sick family members.

Photo to share:  Our little Christmas tree in the kitchen.

Thanks for stopping by Second Star Academy.  You are always welcome to visit here!

Blessings,

Pam


Monday, November 26, 2012

Making Your Home a Haven, Week 4






Okay, this week's challenge to make our home a haven, is to decorate for Christmas.  This should be pretty easy for most of us.  We have our Christmas decorations in storage, in preparation for the big move, whenever that's going to happen, so I had to pick up a few things.  I didn't go crazy or anything. We purchased a small (4 ft.) white prelit tree and placed in on the back of the kitchen table, closest to the window.  We bought red and blue ornaments to make it a real American Christmas tree.  I have a cute little decoration of a cross that says peace hanging on the front door to welcome all and a Merry Christmas plaque with dangling snowflakes hanging above the fireplace.  Since our stockings are packed away, I may just place baskets on the heart with our name tags on them for our little Christmas stocking stuffings.  I just love the stuffing!  I have some awesome smelling candles from Bath and Body Works which makes the house smell like Christmas too.  Not sure what else I may do, but anything I purchase will just be incorporated into all the decorations I have collected over the years and when we get into a new house, it will be so much more fun to pull all those items out and make our home festive.

So, go to Women Living Well to find out more about making your home a have. 

Blessings,

Pam

Menu for week of November 26th


Monday:  Texas Lasagna, Salad

Tuesday:  Mixed Beans, Sauteed Cabbage, Fried Taters and Cornbread

Wednesday:  Chicken  Chow Mein, Asian Veggies

Thursday:  Sausage Casserole, Italian Green Beans

Friday:  Pizza Casserole, leftover green beans, Salad

Saturday: Date night!  Oh yeah!!!

Sunday:  Chicken Tetrazzini, Spinach and Strawberry Salad

That's my week.  Doesn't it sound yummy?  If you want any recipes, just ask.

Go to I'm an Organizing Junkie to view hundred's of menu plans for this week.

Have a blessed week,

Pam

Monday, November 19, 2012

Making Your Home a Haven, week 3



I'm on vacation this week.  We are staying in our condo in South Carolina and I can still make it a haven.  As a matter of fact, it is so neat and decluttered it feels more like a haven!

So this week's challenge is about cooking.  Yep, I still cook on vacation.  We have a full kitchen and so far I have made eggs in a hole and grilled cheese.  Today we will be out and about but I will probably still come back here and fix dinner.  This time, I am going to get my 13 year old to help and make some vacation memories!

Go to Women Living Well  to learn more about making your home a haven.




Thanks for stopping by,
Pam


Thursday, November 15, 2012

Making Your Home a Haven, week 2


This week we are to play soft music in our homes.  I'll be tuning into the Sounds of the Seasons channel on my TV to hear Christmas music.  Yep, you got that right.  I just love Christmas music.

Go to Women Living Well   to follow the weekly posts on how to make  your home a haven.

God Bless,

Pam

Monday, November 12, 2012

Menu for week of November 12th


I can't really post a real menu this week as it is a crazy one.  My daughter and I are leaving tonight to stay at my mom and dad's so that I can get up early to take my dad to the hospital for, hopefully, a one day surgery.  If there are complications, he has to stay an additional night, which means a second night at my mom and dad's.  So it's possible I may not get back home to cook dinner until Wednesday night.  Either way, if we get home Tuesday night or Wednesday night, I pass by our favorite Chinese restaurant and I plan on picking up take-out.  Also, Saturday morning, daughter and I are leaving for a week in South Carolina.  We will probably do pizza on Friday night so there aren't any dishes to clean up.  So here's an attempt at my week:

Monday-out of town
Tuesday-possibly out of town (Chinese take-out)
Wednesday-possibly out of town (Chinese take-out or Soup with Grilled Cheese Sammies)
Thursday-homemade Potato Soup (hubby's fav) with sour cream, bacon and cheese on top!
Friday-Pizza night
Saturday-leave on vacation with daughter

That's my week, easy peasy!  Hope you have a fab one too!

Go to I'm an Organized Junkie   to see 100's of menu plans.

Pam

P.S.  My new recipes from last week were great! 

Monday, November 5, 2012

Menu for week of November 5th


I did much better this week sticking to my menu.  How about you?  This week I am doubling a few recipes to feed my freezer.  Recipes will be down below.  Here is my plan for this week:

Monday:  Crock Pot BBQ Chicken, Buns, Baked Beans, Kettle Cooked Chips

Tuesday:  Tacos in a  Sleeping Bag (feeding the freezer), Lettuce, Tomatoes, Sour Cream, Tortilla Chips and Cheese Dip

Wednesday:  Ziti Bake with Kielbasa (feeding the freezer), Salad, Blueberry Bread

Thursday:  Going to my folks house and taking some Blueberry Bread and making Taco Soup for them.

Friday:  Chicken Supreme (feeding the freezer), Salad

Saturday:  Baked Chicken Meatballs (feeding the freezer), Pasta and Pasta Sauce, Salad or Green Veggies

Sunday:  Ranch Crock Pot Chops (feeding the freezer), Brussel Sprouts, Mashed Potatoes

Tacos in a Sleeping Bag

2 packages refrigerated crescent roll or biscuit dough
1 lbs. ground beef or turkey
1 package taco seasoning
.5 cup cheddar or mozzarella cheese, shredded
shredded lettuce, tomatoes, sour cream, etc. if desired


Preheat oven to 375ºF. Brown the ground beef or turkey in a skillet. Drain in a colander and rinse well in hot water to remove grease. Return to skillet. Add taco seasoning; mix well. Unroll crescent rolls or biscuits. Top each piece of dough with approx. 2 TBSP taco meat and a sprinkling of cheese. Roll crescent roll around filling (fold over and pinch edges to seal if using biscuit dough). Place on a baking sheet at bake at 375ºF for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown. Serve with shredded lettuce, chopped tomatoes, and a dollop of sour cream, if desired.
Freezing Directions:

Follow directions as above. When finished baking, allow to cool completely then flash freeze on a cool cookie sheet. When frozen, place in a gallon freezer bag. To serve: Heat frozen taco rolls in microwave for about a minute or reheat in the oven until heated through.
Servings: 16 rolls

 
Ziti Bake With Kielbasa

Servings: 8

"A nice way to add some ZIP to your ziti, made healthier with whole wheat pasta and part-skim mozzarella! Add a tossed salad to round out the meal!"

1 lb ziti pasta ( Ronzoni Whole Wheat pasta)
1 1/2 lbs polska kielbasa, sliced diagonally ( Hillshire Farms)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 (26 1/2 ounce) cans spaghetti sauce ( Hunt's Roasted Garlic)
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/2 teaspoon pepper
8 ounces part-skim mozzarella cheese, shredded

Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C); lightly oil a 13X9 baking pan or grab a non-stick one.
Cook pasta per package directions and drain.
While pasta cooks, heat oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat; Cook kielbasa in skillet until browned on both sides, 5-7 min; drain.
In a large bowl, combine the pasta, kielbasa, spaghetti sauce, oregano, salt and pepper and mix well.
Pour into the baking pan; sprinkle with parsley and then the mozzarella.
Cover lightly with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30-45 minutes until casserole is bubbly and the cheese is completely melted.
For OAMC: Prepare casserole but use a disposable (foil) baking pan; do NOT bake; double wrap casserole in plastic wrap, then in foil wrap and freeze; remove from freezer 24 hours or more in advance of need; remove wrapping and thaw in fridge; once thawed, preheat oven to 350°F (177°C); then cover lightly with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30-45 minutes until casserole is bubbly and the cheese is completely melted.

Blueberry Bread

1 cup sugar
2 Tbls butter
2 eggs -- beaten
2 cups flour
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1 cup sour cream
2 cups blueberries
cinnamon-sugar

Cream together first 3 ingredients. Mix dry ingredients and add to creamed
mixture alternately with sour cream. Fold in blueberries and sprinkle with
cinnamon-sugar (& nutmeg, optional).
Bake in greased & floured loaf pan. Bake at 375 for 1 hour.
 
Chicken Supreme

1 lb chicken, ground
1 Tbsp butter
3.33 cups packaged dressing/stuffing
16 oz frozen french style green beans
10 oz cream of mushroom soup
10 oz cream of chicken soup
1/2 cup colby jack cheese, shredded
1/2 cup french fried onions
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup almonds, slivered
1/4 cup butter, melted

If you haven’t already done so, brown the ground chicken in butter, seasoning it with salt and pepper if desired. Place 2/3 of the dry dressing in the bottom of ungreased 9×13 baking pan. On stovetop, cook green beans in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, drain. Pour beans in a bowl and combine with both soups, french fried onions,milk, and cheese. Pour over dressing in pan and spread evenly. Layer chicken on top. Spread remaining dressing and slivered almonds over pan. Drizzle with melted butter. Bake 375 for 30-40 minutes or until bubbly. Serve with cranberry sauce and rolls.
Freezing Directions:

Before cooking, cover baking pan with aluminum foil and freeze. To Serve: Thaw and bake 375 for 30-40 minutes or until bubbly
Servings: 6
 
Baked Ground Chicken Meatballs Recipe

2 pounds ground chicken and/or pork
1 med onion minced
2-3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup uncooked instant oatmeal
2 eggs
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
1 tsp basil
1 tsp oregano
1 tsp parsley
1/2 tsp ground sage
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper

Mince your onion and garlic or throw them in a food processor if you don't want to chop them. Add all the ingredients in a large bowl and mix together. I usually mix by hand.

I use a #30 (3 Tbsp) scoop and scrape the side on the bowl so they are all the same size.

Cover your sheet or pan with tin foil for easy clean up. There is no need to put baked ground chicken meatballs on a rack because they are really lean and won't have much grease. They bake fine even if they are touching, just keep them in a single layer.

Bake at 425F (240 C) 20-25 minutes. Don't overcook or they will be dry. Don't under cook for food safety reasons. Break one open and make sure the center is cooked through before serving or cooling to freeze.

Ranch Crock Pot Chops

6 pork chops
1 packet Ranch seasonings
10 oz Cream of Chicken soup

Place Pork Chops, Ranch Seasoning packet and soup in large ziplock bag. Zipper shut and squish to mix. When ready to cook pour mixture into crock pot and cook on low for 6 hours. May be frozen.


Go to I'm an Organizing Junkie to see 100's of menu plans.

Pam

Sunday, November 4, 2012

Making your Home a Haven

Courtney, over at Women Living Well, has a new challenge, called Making your Home a Haven.  Our challenge this week is to light a candle in our home daily and each time the candle catches our eye we should say a prayer for our home.  Pray for peace, pray for peace within each other and pray for peace within ourselves.  Please go to  Women Living Well   to read more about this exciting challenge.


Thanks for stopping by,

Pam

Friday, November 2, 2012

The Homeschooling Mother's Journal







In my life this week...I was home bound this week.  Hubby had to take his car in for repair and they had to order a part and we get to pick the car up today.  He used mine all week for work and I was stuck at home.  But guess what?  I loved it.

In our homeschool this week...since we were studying about the American Revolution Tuesday afternoon, daughter and I decided to break out our DVD, The Patriot.  I hadn't seen it in awhile, forgot about how graphic it was, but enjoyed it all the same. 

I am inspired by...all the volunteers who are helping everyone affected by Hurricane Sandy.  What devastation!  I cannot imagine.

Places we're going and people we're seeing...it was just too cold and damp last weekend to attempt to go to Dollywood.  It is going to be warmer this weekend so we may try again tomorrow or Sunday after church.

I'm reading...Wikipedia.  I know!  It's just that I'll hear about a person in history or something, and I want to know more about that person and viola!  I read about him or her on Wiki.  Lately, due to the History channel's show on The Men Who Built America, I have been reading about Robber Barons.  Very interesting.  Really.

I'm grateful for...health insurance.  We basically went without for three years during hubby's unemployment and I am so so grateful to have it back.  This month I get to have my boobies squished and a gyno visit.  Yay me!

Thanks for stopping by.  Please come and visit me again.

Pam


Thursday, November 1, 2012

Happy November 1st!

It's November, it feels and looks like fall.  I just love this time of year, don't you?  We didn't "do" Halloween last night. We set out a huge bowl of candy with a sign that said please take two and Happy Halloween.  I think the first group through took the majority of it.  It was chilly here and none of us wanted door duty tonight.  Are we party poopers or what?  Actually it was daughter and I who were the poopers.  Hubby had a good excuse.  He has a test at work today and needed to study.

It's a new month so I've set a few goals for myself this month, at least, while I am at home.  We are going to South Carolina on the 17th for a week.  Here are my goals:

Drink 8 glasses of water a day (I have a hard time doing this, do you?)
Take my vitamins
Exercise on the bike or treadmill or a neighborhood walk five days a week
Clean and organize my craft room (it's in there somewhere!)

I guess I could exercise on vacation and drink my water and take my vitamins while on vacation as well, couldn't I?

How about you?  Do you find yourself wanting to set goals at the beginning of the month, week or year?  I do.  There's something about a new (fill in the blank) that makes me feel like I'm starting with a clean slate and I'm more motivated to set goals for myself.

Have a Happy November 1st and thanks for stopping by Chaos Cottage.

Pam


Sunday, October 28, 2012

Menu for week of October 29th


Okay, another week of not following my menu plan. Fortunately, I don't have many groceries to buy as I still have the fixin's for the food planned last week :) 

Monday: Lazy Lasagna (freeze two pans), Sauteed Zucchini and Onions

Tuesday: Ham and Cheese Quiche (freeze one pie), Fruit Salad, Crescent Rolls

Wednesday: Mummy Weenies :D, Tomato Chicken Gumbo (freeze extras for later lunches) 

Thursday: Bean and Cheese Burritos, Chips and Salsa 

Friday: Stouffer's Meal (I like to buy these tasty frozen dinners when they are on sale and especially with a coupon. They are very good and all natural, nothing weird), Salad and/or Green Veggie 

Saturday: Salmon Patties, Mixed Beans, Cornbread Muffins 

Sunday: Lunch-Crock Pot Chicken Fried Chops, Brussels Sprouts, Mashed Taters, leftover Cornbread Muffins Supper: Maybe Pizza Night or leftovers if there are any :D

I'm going to try to do better this week sticking to my menu. Sometimes I am too tired to cook and we will get take-out or some days I have leftovers that need to be eaten and I don't get to what I planned. Do you do that too? Thanks for stopping by Chaos Cottage. Go to  Organized Junkie  for 100's of menu plans.

 Pam

Friday, October 26, 2012

The Homeschool Mother's Journal

In my life this week...having returned from another week out of town on Thursday night last week, my weekend was filled with doing laundry and unpacking. On Monday I returned the van to my dad. We had the oil changed, filled up the tank, and ran it through the car wash. On Tuesday, daughter had to see the dentist for some fillings. On Wednesday I returned to my sleep doctor for the results of my sleep test. It had been a while since I had a sleep test. Things were okay. Just needed to up the pressure on my cpap a bit. While I was out I made a stop at Trader Joes and Office Depot. Yesterday, we didn't go anywhere! Also ordered in Papa Johns pizza. I haven't stuck to my menu plan too well this week :/ Today, daughter and I are headed out to do a little shopping. A local boutique has a 50 percent off sale through tomorrow :) In my homeschool this week...daughter had a lot of quizzes and tests to study for and take this week. Hoping her daddy will do some more pre-algebra with her on Sunday afternoon. Places we're going and people we're seeing...see above in my life this week, plus we are going to go to Dollywood tomorrow if the weather is good. Can't wait to see the fall colors over in the Smokies. My favorite thing this week was...seeing and visiting with my Mom and Dad :) I'm reading...I don't think I've cracked a book this week. No, I don't think I did. I'm cooking...check out my Monday menu post. I made the Potato Flake Chicken and boy was it delicious. This will be going into the tried and true file for sure! I'm praying for...a dear friend who is dealing with the pain of watching her daddy in his last few months of life. She is so grateful for the wonderful year they have had together, knowing it may be his last, and making wonderful memories. I know her pain is deep, having lost her mother as well a few years ago. I'm praying for her and asking the Lord to comfort her during this time. That's about all. Time to go put my face on and head out the door with my 13 year old. She keeps me young! Pam

Monday, October 22, 2012

Menu for week of October 22nd



Monday:  Take Out from our favorite Chinese Restaurant

Tuesday:  Potato Flake Chicken (recipe below), Corn on the Cob, Steamed Broccoli

Wednesday:  Lazy Lasagna (make 3 pans and freeze 2), Sauteed Zucchini

Thursday:  Tomato Chicken Gumbo (freeze any leftovers), Cornbread Muffins

Friday:  Chili Dawgs, Natural Chips

Saturday:  Crock Pot Pork Loin Chops, Green Veggie, Rice Pilaf

Sunday:  Lunch-Ham and Cheese Quiche, Fruit Salad; Supper:  Salmon Patties, Mixed Beans, leftover Cornbread Muffins

That's my plan and I'm stickin' to it!


Potato Flake Chicken

2/3 c. mashed potato flakes
1/3 c. grated parmesan cheese
1 t. garlic salt
4 boneless skinless chicken breast halves (8 oz. Each)
1/3 c. butter, melted

In a shallow bowl, combine the potato flakes, parmesan cheese and garlic salt. Dip chicken in butter, then coat with potato flake mixture.

Place in greased 13x9x2 inch baking pan. Bake, uncovered 350 degrees 35-40 minutes or until juices run clear. Broil 4 minutes from heat 3-5 minutes until lightly browned. 4 servings.


Go to http://orgjunkie.com for 100's of menu plans. Pam

Friday, October 19, 2012

The Homeschool Mother's Journal


It's been a few weeks since I have posted here.  Here is what's going on in my (our) life.

In my life this week:  We returned last night from a week in Williamsburg, VA. Colonial Williamsburg is a wonderful place for families, especially homeschooling families.  It is such an educational place.  We didn't do a whole lot as daughter has seen all that twice, and this was her third time there.  But we had a timeshare week to use up and we always enjoy Virginia.  The trees were so colorful and the weather was wonderful!

In our homeschool this week:  We did not homeschool this week except for daughter taking two quizzes today and doing 3 algebra lessons with her daddy.  She likes him as a math teacher.  What's that say about me?  But guess what?  She read three whole books while on vacation!  I'm so proud of her.

I am inspired by:  We met some of the nicest folks on our trip this week.  One older couple drove all the way from Montana to Williamsburg, VA.  He was in a scooter and she used a cane.  What an inspiration!

Places we're going and people we're seeing:  We aren't leaving the state this week!  I am taking the van back to my folks on Monday and we may go to Dollywood next weekend while the weather is so mild.

My favorite thing this week:  Vacation time with the family and having my hubby with us as he had seven days off from work.  He's working this weekend (two nights) and back to his training on Monday and a more normal schedule.

I'm grateful for family and friends this week. I'm afraid I take them all for granted way too often.  I need to be more intentional in my relationships.  I'm going to work on that.  How about you?

I'm praying for:  A dear friend of mine just found out her mother has six months to live.  She will be going to hospice care.  Her mom has been battling cancer for a while and I was so sad to hear this.  I am so grateful for my mother, who is a cancer survivor. 

Please some back and visit Second Star Academy at Chaos Cottage.   You're always welcome here!

Pam

Monday, October 8, 2012

Menu for week of October 8th



Monday:  Crock Pot Pork Chops, Brussels Sprouts, Rice Pilaf

Tuesday:  Spaghetti Casserole (make two, freeze one), Salad

Wednesday:  Breakfast for Dinner

Thursday:  Chili Mac, Salad

Friday-Out of Town

That's my plan.  Go to   http://orgjunkie.com/    for 100's of menu plans.

Pam

Sunday, October 7, 2012

Lighthouse viewing

St. Augustine Lighthouse

Ponce Inlet Lighthouse


Like I said in an earlier post, I like lighthouses.  If I was in shape, I would climb to the top and take some awesome photos.  Maybe if I had seen lighthouses when I was younger...

Anyway, I wanted to show you the two lighthouses I got to photograph on this trip to Florida.  Aren't they beautiful? 

Have an awesome Sunday!  See ya with my weekly menu tomorrow.

Pam

Monday, October 1, 2012

Happy October 1st!



Yep, it's a brand new month.  A brand new start.  I'm in Florida with family enjoying a little vacation.  We went to see Ponce Inlet Lighthouse today.  Tomorrow, we may drive up to St. Augustine and visit that historic little town and their lighthouse as well.  I love lighthouses.

My daughter and I drove to an outlet mall yesterday and went to our first ever Cosmetic Company Outlet Store.  We found out we have one near home in Sevierville.  You can bet we will be checking that one out soon. We also went to our first Ulta.  We are getting one at home soon.  We are anxiously waiting for it to open.

I'll be back home this weekend and will post some vacay photos.  Hope you all have a blessed day and a wonderful start to a brand new month.

Pam

Saturday, September 29, 2012

The Homeschooling Mother's Journal


In my life this week:   We left home on Thursday morning to drive to Florida with an overnight stop in Georgia Thursday night.  We stayed at a very nice Hampton Inn.  I don't think I have stayed at one  before.  Their free breakfast in the morning was fabulous.  They offered all sorts of healthy choices along with smoked sausage, scrambled eggs and potatoes, danish, English muffins and bagels, homemade waffles complete with waffle maker, boiled eggs, fruit, yogurt, milk, cereal, juice, coffee, teas, and I'm sure I'm leaving somethings off this list, but it was wonderful.  I would definitely pay the extra cost for a stay at a Hampton because of the breakfast.  It saves you time and money when you are heading on down the road.  Also, their check out time is noon!   Just the thing for us night owls :D

In our homeschool this week:  Daughter did some American history this week and studying for a quiz and test which we will do when we get home.  I love having the flexibility of homeschooling and that it allows for impromptu vacations!

Places we're going and people we're seeing:  Tomorrow we are going to drive up to Saint Augustine and look at some of the history of the town and the lighthouse.  But daughter is looking forward to visiting their outlet mall.  It is huge.  We drove by it on our way to Daytona and it is on both sides of the highway.  There is a Cosmetic Company Outlet there. We have heard about this on YouTube but don't have any in our area that I am aware of.  I am sure she or I will make a post about it for our Glamouriffic blog. Next week we are going to drive to Orlando and visit some favorite amusement parks.  One day I want to drive south of Daytona to the Ponce Inlet to see the lighthouse there.  Did I tell you I like lighthouses?  We were there when Robyn was a baby but now I want her to see it.

I'm reading:  I brought about 50 pounds of magazines with me.  No kidding.  I started getting a slew of magazines for free and I began saving them up for this trip.  I don't really take the time to read magazines at home often anyway.  After I read them and clip a coupon or two, my plan is to leave them for the maids.  That way I don't have to tow them home and they can enjoy them too.  Another good thing to do with old magazines is to take them to hospital waiting rooms.  I've done that before as well.  :D  I also brought my Kindle which is full of lots of good books to read.

I'm grateful for:  Aunt Pat invited us on this impromptu trip to Daytona.  She is so sweet!  We are having a fun time.  We had excellent weather driving down and I only got a bit anxious driving through Atlanta.  We timed it so we could miss rush hour, but oh my goodness it was still quite congested.

I'm praying for:  a friend whose husband is about to undergo very serious surgery soon.  She is stressed and I am praying for peace for her and guidance for the doctors in doing this surgery.  Also, praying for my Mother-In-Love who wanted to come with us on this trip, she loves the beach so much, but is under some pain and discomfort and is trying new meds to alleviate that and didn't feel she was up to the trip.  Get well Mama!

So sorry to be a day late getting this post up but we were on the road all day and then had to make a run to Wally World to get some vittles for the condo and I was absolutely too wiped out to post.  Thank you for stopping by Second Star Academy at Chaos Cottage.

Pam




Monday, September 24, 2012

Menu for week of September 24th



Monday:  Sausage Casserole, Roasted Asparagus, Mayonnaise Rolls

Tuesday:  Breakfast for dinner (Eggs, Bacon, Taters, Canned Biscuits or leftover Mayo Rolls)

Wednesday:  Not sure ???  either our favorite Chinese take-out or pizza!

Thursday through the following Friday or Saturday my daughter and I will be in Florida.  Hubby and my nephew are on their own!  :D

Go to http://orgjunkie.com/blog for 100's of menu plans.

Thanks for visiting Chaos Cottage.  Please stop by again!

Pam

Sunday, September 23, 2012

Baptist Pound Cake

Made a favorite recipe today.  I found it many years ago on the internet.  If you Google it you will find it everywhere.  It is so simple to make and tastes delicious.  Not sure how it got it's name.  Remember to put it in a COLD oven.  Enjoy!

Baptist Pound Cake

1/2 cup solid vegetable shortening
1 stick butter or margarine, softened
3 cups sugar
5 large eggs
3 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla


Cream together shortening and butter; add sugar and beat until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating after each addition. Sift flour and baking powder together three times. Add flour alternately with milk to creamed mixture, beginning and ending with flour. Stir in vanilla. Pour into a greased and floured tube pan and place in a cold oven. Turn oven to 350 degrees and bake 1 hour and 15 minutes. 

Photo take by my daughter Robs.

Saturday, September 22, 2012

Happy first day of Autumn!

It's my most favorite time of the year.  I love the temps, I love the colors, I love pumpkins, I love just about everything about fall.  How about you?


Friday, September 21, 2012

The Homeschooling Mother's Journal



In my life this week...I'm telling you, this week flew by for me.  It was so nice having hubby home for several days.  He goes back to work tonight for the next four nights.  It's a tough schedule but we are so grateful to God for giving him this job.  In my home we accomplished more work in the master bath and bedroom.  I'm really loving the new paint on the walls.  I love having a clean room to sleep in.  I need to work harder to make my bedroom a haven.  We didn't get to the garage project this time but we will get to it when we can.

In our homeschool this week...daughter is trying to work ahead in anticipation of our trip to Florida.  She gets easily distracted by other things she would rather be doing :/

I am inspired by...fall, my most favorite time of the year!  I have the windows open in our bedroom all day and night and am enjoying the cooler temperatures!

Places we're going and people we're seeing...leaving on Thursday next week to drive to Florida with my MIL and Aunt.  We are going to stop about halfway to spend the night somewhere.  It's too long of a drive on my old back.  My doctor suggests we stop every two hours to stretch and walk a bit.  I think that will be good advice.

My favorite thing this week was...the beautiful weather we are having :)

Things I'm working on...I'm always working on being more organized, having less clutter and a more simple life.  (easier said than done)  Enjoying each day that the Lord has given us.

I'm cooking...made delicious taco soup last night.  I love it.  It is especially good in the fall and winter.

I'm thankful for...God's blessings on my life :)

I'm praying for...friends of ours in Ethiopia who are adopting the cutest little boy ever.  They have hoops to jump through before bringing him home and praying all goes as God plans.

Thank you for stopping by Second Star Academy.  I hope you have a fantastic weekend and week with your loved ones.

Pam



Wednesday, September 19, 2012

Chaos






Found this today on Pinterest.  Hoping this is true ;)

Pam

Friday, September 14, 2012

Homeschooling Mother's Journal


In my life this week...enjoying having my nephew here again.  He is a very good painter and I am enjoying my newly painted bedroom and bath.  Oh, and did I mention the closet?  He emptied it and painted it too.  It all looks so nice.  This week he is also working next door removing stucco off a neighbor's house and putting up siding.  He's a talented guy!

In our homeschool this week...we did school a few days and then Robyn went to her grandmother's for a visit.  That's the nice thing about homeschooling.  We couldn't do this when we feel like it in regular school.  Since she is going back to her Christian school for high school next year, she is taking advantage of this perk while she can :)

I am inspired by...love.  "...but the greatest of these is love."  (I Cor. 13:13)

Places we're going and people we're seeing...just visiting our parents and sticking around home.  Hubby is off for seven days starting today (crazy work schedule) and we are going to do some work in the garage.  It's so piled up we can't get our cars in there.  :(

My favorite thing this week was...starting a beauty blog with my 13 year old.  It's so much fun sharing our love of makeup and all things girly  :)

Things I'm working on...getting my bedroom and bathroom all clean and decorated now that the painting is done.  Going through clothes, shoes, handbags, and donating unwanted things, decluttering and just making the master bedroom look pretty :)

I'm cooking...with my nephew here there's another man to feed, so I am making more filling, manly meals.  He is working so hard I feel like I have to feed him well enough to keep his strength up.  lol

I am thankful for...family.

I'm praying for...family.

Thank you so much for stopping by Second Star Academy.  Please come and visit again and leave a comment telling me you were here.

Pam

Monday, September 10, 2012

Menu for week of September 10th


I'm late getting this up today.  I worked at church serving lunch to the seniors of the church today and then had to come home and take a much needed nap.  So, better late that never, here is my plan:

Go to  http://orgjunkie.com/ for 100's of menus.

Monday:  Smoked Turkey Sausage with Peppers and Onions, Taters, and Zucchini, Salad

Tuesday:  Chicken Stir Fry and Rice

Wednesday:  BBQ Chicken Kabobs, Baked Beans and Pineapple

Thursday:  Cheesy Chicken Bundles, Corn, Green Beans

Friday:  Crock Pot Pork Chops, Brussels Sprouts, Baby Carrots, Mashed Potatoes

Saturday:  Frozen Stouffer's Dinner, Salad

Sunday:  Bean Burritos, Chips and Salsa

Please come back and visit Chaos Cottage again or my new blog Glamouriffic Beauty Blog by clicking the link at the right.

Pam

Saturday, September 8, 2012

New blog



My daughter and I have a new blog we are doing together.  You can go to it by clicking over at the right on Glamouriffic Beauty Blog.  We hope to post more often there.  If you like makeup, nail polish, fashion, and everything girly, you will like the blog.

Pam

Friday, September 7, 2012

The Homeschool Mother's Journal

Happy Friday everyone.  I haven't participated in this blog hop for awhile and thought I would today.

In my life this week...my nephew is visiting with us and doing some odd jobs around the house.  I am most excited about my master bathroom and bedroom.  They are getting painted the nicest light blue you ever did see.  With my tannish tile my bathroom looks like the beach!

In our homeschool this week...just plugging along with our Switched on Schoolhouse curriculum.  It's 8th grade and starting to get more difficult. So glad I married a smart man!

Places we're going and people we're seeing...went to my mother-in-love's on Labor day for delicious hotdogs.  Robyn and I did some shopping this week but mainly we are working on projects here at home.

Things I'm working on...my daughter and I are starting a mother and daughter blog where we talk about makeup, nail polish, fashion and mainly girly stuff.  I thought it would be neat to have a younger and um, err, older perspective on these.  What do you think?

I'm cooking...see my menu posted every Monday and my occasional new recipe.

I'm grateful for...God's blessings on me and my family and the gorgeous weather we are experiencing.  I can't wait for the changing of the leaves, my favorite time of year.

I'm praying for...my husband to stay safe at work and driving to and from.  For our homeschool year (our last, as daughter will be returning to her Christian school for high school) to be successful.  










Thank you for stopping by Second Star Academy.  Please come and visit again soon.

Pam

Thursday, September 6, 2012

If you're happy and you know it, clap your hands!



I'm a happy girl!  Things are getting done around my chaos cottage.  My nephew is visiting us to help us check things off our to-do list.  In return we bought him a new cell phone and we are paying him a decent wage.  It's a win-win situation for my unemployed nephew. 

So far, I have a new painted front door, painted trim on the porch, freshly power washed porch, steps, sidewalk and drive-way.  At the moment, he is power washing the deck.  It hasn't seen a power wash in years.  On Tuesday he and my dad repaired some outside trim on our kitchen window.  Yep, things are looking good around here.

We've bought paint for our master bath and bedroom.  I can't wait to see how fresh and clean those walls are going to look.  They are the same contractors white color that they were when we moved in this house in 2000!  I know, I know.  Besides the upstairs hall, every room in our house has been painted but those.  It's time to give those room some love and attention.  It's way over due.

I went to see my internist yesterday and got a much needed shot in my back, prescription renewals, blood drawn, etc.  I am hoping this shot will help me to get through a trip I am taking soon that entails a long drive.  The doctor said I should stop every two hours to stretch and walk a bit.  I think that is a good idea too.

We had a wonderful afternoon on Monday at my Mother-in-Love's.  All the food was so yummy.  I hadn't had a hot dog with the works in a while and it was just delicious.  Afterwards we went to the mall and I only ended up purchasing a scarf and earrings at Claires.  Robyn and I both had a $10 off a $20 purchase coupon to use.  I know that store caters to the younger crowd, but I have a lot of fun perusing around in there.  We went to Victoria's Secret to look at their 5 for $30 body care items, but I didn't find any that I was crazy about, had a hard time finding samples to smell, and the employees weren't helping me.  I was a little disappointed in that because that was a great sale.  Then we went to Twenty-One.  I had never been there but see a lot of ladies on YouTube who show their shopping hauls from there.  They don't carry plus-size in their stores so that too was a disappointment. 

Yesterday, Robyn and I went to Cracker Barrel for Linner (lunch-dinner) after my doctor's visit because neither one of us had eaten anything, and then to Krogers and then to Walgreens. We bought 9 bottles of Sinful Colors nail polish for 99 cents each.  We got some beautiful fall colors.  Can't wait to try them.

So you see, I am feeling better, getting out and about more, seeing things getting accomplished around my house, and that always makes me a happy girl!  Clap, clap, clap!

Thanks for visiting Chaos Cottage.

Pam

Monday, September 3, 2012

Menu for week of September 3rd


I know, I know, everyone is saying it, but where did August go?  Really.

Here is my menu plan for this week:

Today:  Hot Dog cookout wing ding at my MIL.  Yum.  We haven't had "dawgs" in a while.

Tuesday:  Meatballs (made with ground chicken), Pasta, Sauce, Zucchini Casserole (an old favorite)

Wednesday:  My famous Potato Soup and all the fixin's.

Thursday:  Pork Chops, Baby Carrots, Brussels Sprouts, Rice Pilaf

Friday:  Shredded BBQ Chicken (on buns or not), Corn on the Cob, Broccoli Salad

Saturday:  Ham and Cheese Quiche, Leftover Broccoli Salad, Muffins, Fruit

Sunday:  Hoping for a pizza day!

That's my week.  How about yours.  Go to  http://orgjunkie.com/blog   to 100's of menus every week.

Thanks for stopping by,

Pam

Friday, August 31, 2012

Friday happenings

Today has been a sorta lazy day for me.  I did get a black beans recipe in the crockpot earlier in the day and then I made rice to serve with it.  Hubby and I liked it.  It was a little bit spicy but not too much.  I think it will be a keeper.  It is freezable as well.  I'll post the recipe at the end of this post.

Daughter had lunch with her Grandmama and Aunt Pat today at their favorite BBQ restaurant.  She wasn't hungry when dinner was made.  So she passed.  Maybe she'll try the recipe later.

Climbing Mount Laundry a little today and running the dishwasher is about all that got done around the house.  We plan on taking some things to our storage unit tomorrow or after church sometime on Sunday..

Our daughter's bedroom is nearly finished.  Really just needs a good deep cleaning.  She has new curtains (room darkening), and new comforter set and sheets and bed ruffle.  It is gorgeous.  Black and white comforter and shams and hot pink polka dot bed sheets.  She has a new decorative pillow to add to her already generous amount of pillows. She got a new hot pink bar stool height chair for sitting in front of her dresser/vanity area and a 10 drawer cart to hold all of her beauty items.  Oh, and a new floor lamp with different pinkish/purplish shades to help with the lighting in her dresser/vanity area.    It's very girly :)

Also, daughter's bathroom is no longer a Hello Kitty bathroom but is a Paris themed bathroom.  It is gorgeous.  I'll see if I can get some photos up of both of these rooms soon.  They look so pretty.

I need to give my bedroom and bath a deep cleaning.  I've purchased new towels and rugs for my bath and hot pink and lime green closet organizers for my closet.  I am hoping to get some help with the painting once I decide on which shade I want my bedroom and bath to be.  Decisions, decisions...

Next, the craft room and guest room need some much needed love.  I'll keep you updated on those projects.

Thanks for stopping by my Chaos Cottage.  Please come by again and leave a comment so I know you stopped by.  Look for the recipe below.

Pam
Black Beans

1 pound smoked sausage cut into pieces--I used turkey sausage
3 cans (15-oz.) black beans, drained
1 1/2 cups chopped onion
1 1/2 cups chopped green bell pepper
1 1/2 cups chopped celery
2 tsp. minced garlic (4 cloves)
2 tsp. dried thyme leaves
1/4 tsp. cayenne
1 1/2 tsp. dried oregano leaves
1 1/2 tsp. pepper
1 chicken bouillon cube
5 bay leaves
1 (8-oz.) can tomato sauce
1 cup water

Rice (enough to serve 8)

Combine all ingredients, except rice in a crockpot.

Cook on low for 8 hours.

Remove bay leaves. Either serve HOT or cool and FREEZE.

When preparing to serve, heat to boiling and simmer 15 minutes.