So last Thursday Colby had a field trip at school. Now normally Thursday's are a work day for this mama BUT the field trip was 30 miles from school and I wasn't comfortable with someone else driving my baby sooo I took off work to chauffeur my child "safely" in "my car."
I was looking forward to the one-on-one time together on our 30+ minute car ride. I mean it's not too often that Colby and I can talk just the two of us without baby brother interrupting. Unfortunately, I had forgotten about the noise my mufflerless car makes when I drive on the interstate (I guess I had just grown accustomed to it on my lonely drive to work every week). Add in the fact it was raining plus the noise from my windshield wipers and it would have been hard to hear my child if he was sitting right next to me, much less in the backseat. Colby and I spent the first 5 or 6 minutes yelling back and forth "WHAT", "WHAT DID YOU SAY", I'M SORRY, CAN YOU REPEAT THAT" Finally we both just gave up and rode in silence. How sad.
PS While I am writing about my car let me add that I forgot to roll (really roll, no automatic windows here) up my windows last night. So this morning I was greeted with a soaking wet seat. Only thing better will be tomorrow when I open up my car and am greeted with the aroma from day old rain soaked into fabric seats (aka mildew!).
PSS Sorry for the pity party! I can do all things... I can do all things.... I can do all things.....
Saturday, March 21, 2009
DRS Bloopers
So yesterday, I had a brief nanosecond when I thought "I should really try to catch up on my zone work," So in an effort to be productive YET still procrastinate, I sprayed the oven down with Easy Off Oven Cleaner (no automatic oven cleaner in THIS house), walked off, and vowed to clean the oven that night after the boys went to bed.
Fast Forward about 6 hours.....
DH had a Men's Night Out with our Sunday School Class, so I decided the boys and I would have a Movie Night. Movie Night at our House ALWAYS means Pizza eaten on Blankets in the living room while watching the movie. Well I had a coupon for Papa Murphys and DH isn't a big fan of the whole "pick up a raw pizza and bring it home to bake" concept so I though this would be the perfect night to give it a try. I walked in Papa Murpheys and ordered half peperoni (boys side), half zucchini, jalapeno peppers, and artichoke (my side) on a deLite crust. I was given my baking instructions and headed home to start the pizza.
Well if you have put the two paragraphs together you have an idea of what happened next..... I set the oven at the recommended 425 degrees and didn't bother with the preheat step. Placed the pizza in the oven, set the timer for 20 minutes and went outside to play with the boys while the pizza baked. My mouth was watering as I walked into the house to check on our yummy baking pizza about 15 minutes into the process. But when I stepped into the kitchen I was met with a horrific smell- I thought "What is that?, Do we have a gas leak?" Then it clicked.... OVEN CLEANER!!!! My delectable vegy laden pizza was trapped inside that oven engulfed in toxic fumes. Arggggggggggg! I don't know what I was more upset about- the fact that I would not get to taste the carefully crafted pizza that sat before me, OR the fact that I had spent close to $9 for the thing. PLUS I still had 2 hungry boys and a mama to feed. Sooooo......................
I punched in a familiar number and sadly drove off. On the way to my destination I stopped at Sonic to pick up a Dr. Pepper to drown my sorrows away (yes, I was a victim of emotional eating/drinking). Next I pulled up to the window, paid my close to $8 fee, and drove off with my Dominos half pepperoni, half cheese pizza.
It still hurts my thrifty little heart to think about the fact that I spent $17 bucks on pizza night and all I got for it was heart burn!
PS Still haven't cleaned that oven!!!
Fast Forward about 6 hours.....
DH had a Men's Night Out with our Sunday School Class, so I decided the boys and I would have a Movie Night. Movie Night at our House ALWAYS means Pizza eaten on Blankets in the living room while watching the movie. Well I had a coupon for Papa Murphys and DH isn't a big fan of the whole "pick up a raw pizza and bring it home to bake" concept so I though this would be the perfect night to give it a try. I walked in Papa Murpheys and ordered half peperoni (boys side), half zucchini, jalapeno peppers, and artichoke (my side) on a deLite crust. I was given my baking instructions and headed home to start the pizza.
Well if you have put the two paragraphs together you have an idea of what happened next..... I set the oven at the recommended 425 degrees and didn't bother with the preheat step. Placed the pizza in the oven, set the timer for 20 minutes and went outside to play with the boys while the pizza baked. My mouth was watering as I walked into the house to check on our yummy baking pizza about 15 minutes into the process. But when I stepped into the kitchen I was met with a horrific smell- I thought "What is that?, Do we have a gas leak?" Then it clicked.... OVEN CLEANER!!!! My delectable vegy laden pizza was trapped inside that oven engulfed in toxic fumes. Arggggggggggg! I don't know what I was more upset about- the fact that I would not get to taste the carefully crafted pizza that sat before me, OR the fact that I had spent close to $9 for the thing. PLUS I still had 2 hungry boys and a mama to feed. Sooooo......................
I punched in a familiar number and sadly drove off. On the way to my destination I stopped at Sonic to pick up a Dr. Pepper to drown my sorrows away (yes, I was a victim of emotional eating/drinking). Next I pulled up to the window, paid my close to $8 fee, and drove off with my Dominos half pepperoni, half cheese pizza.
It still hurts my thrifty little heart to think about the fact that I spent $17 bucks on pizza night and all I got for it was heart burn!
PS Still haven't cleaned that oven!!!
Friday, March 20, 2009
Snack Time
Here is a fun snack idea for the kids.
All you do is dip apple slices into peanut butter and then sprinkle mini chocolate chips and/or sprinkles on top! So simple yet so Yummy!
Craft Time
Learning Time
I reviewed Colors with Cohen when we built God's house. No really, I did!
For Colby.... well... the days not over... I'm sure I'll do somethin to edukate tat boy today.
There is a reason we have not considered home schooling as an option for our boys!
For Colby.... well... the days not over... I'm sure I'll do somethin to edukate tat boy today.
There is a reason we have not considered home schooling as an option for our boys!
Devotional Time
Colby took charge of Devo time today (no big surprise). He announced that today's verse was going to be "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul." When I tried to add in the "and all your mind" he quickly pointed out that "all your mind" was NOT going to be a part of our verse. No biggie- I'm easy going.... today.
Then he announced that we were going to have an "activity" as part of our devotional time. Ever since we did the blind-fold activity with the Proverbs 3:5 Devotional Time, Colby has felt we needed to have an activity with every devotional time. Today he chose to build God a house out of Legos for our activity. Of course I struggled with the fact that this activity had no connection with our "theme verse"... but I let it go....
After God's house was built we had our 4 minute quiet time. And then sang songs of praise. We sang a song with the words to our verse of the day and then we marched around God's house and sang "The Wise/Foolish Man built his House Upon the Rock/Sand" and then ended our devotional time by smashing the house down when "the House on the Sand went SPLAT!"
Familytime Friday
TGIF!!!
Well today I am going to try to live life spontaneously. I know, I know.. this can be dangerous for the DRS sufferer. The last time I did something "spur of the moment" I almost shut down the blog. BUT today won't be quite as frightening because I have "planned" for this spontaneity. Here is the plan: Instead of writing about what the boys and I are planning to do today for devotional, craft, and learning time; I am going to simply DO these things AND THEN write about it!
Just trying to spice things up around this blog BUT if my spontaneity triggers a DRS flair-up for you just let me know and I will tone down the craziness!
You doing anything wild and crazy with your family this week/weekend?
Well today I am going to try to live life spontaneously. I know, I know.. this can be dangerous for the DRS sufferer. The last time I did something "spur of the moment" I almost shut down the blog. BUT today won't be quite as frightening because I have "planned" for this spontaneity. Here is the plan: Instead of writing about what the boys and I are planning to do today for devotional, craft, and learning time; I am going to simply DO these things AND THEN write about it!
Just trying to spice things up around this blog BUT if my spontaneity triggers a DRS flair-up for you just let me know and I will tone down the craziness!
You doing anything wild and crazy with your family this week/weekend?
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Deal Alert
It's that time again! KMart is doubling coupons next week up to.... are you ready for this..... TWO DOLLARS. Go here to see a great list of coupon match-up ideas. Last time I did not make the 30 mile commute to KMart for the sale, BUT I kinda think I'll make the drive this time Just for the experience. Anyone up for carpooling???PS I recommend reading the comments from Southern Saver's Post- Beware!
Annual Budget Countdown
Last week I shopped 4 times. Two times at Walgreens, Once at Kroger, and Once at Target.
Here is a breakdown of the damage:
Walgreens #1
Spent: $2.89
Saved: $42.53
Walgreens #2
Spent: $2.50
Saved: $30.58
Target
Spent: $4.48
Saved: $9.65
Kroger
Spent: $70.46
Saved: $69.86
Total Week 11 Spent: $80.33 WOO HOO!!!!
Total Saved: $152.62 Double WOO HOO!!!
Total Spent for Year: $1111.27
Total Saved for Year: $920.23
Total Left for Year: $3888.73
I made some headway toward getting back on track with my budget this week!!! Now only $55 over budget for the year!!
Here is a breakdown of the damage:
Walgreens #1
Spent: $2.89
Saved: $42.53
Walgreens #2
Spent: $2.50
Saved: $30.58
Target
Spent: $4.48
Saved: $9.65
Kroger
Spent: $70.46
Saved: $69.86
Total Week 11 Spent: $80.33 WOO HOO!!!!
Total Saved: $152.62 Double WOO HOO!!!
Total Spent for Year: $1111.27
Total Saved for Year: $920.23
Total Left for Year: $3888.73
I made some headway toward getting back on track with my budget this week!!! Now only $55 over budget for the year!!
Change in Plans
I know that I told you this morning that I would try to have another exciting lesson in our DRS couponing 101 series by midnight tonight BUT... it turns out my lesson is turning into a novel. It's like I have diarrhea of the fingers and just can't stop writing about my experience with this lesson. Anyways.... it doesn't look as thought it will be ready to post tonight. And my DRS will not allow me to post a Thrifty Thursday lesson on a Familytime Friday day- would that be WILD & CRAZY or what?!?! Sooooo once again I am postponing this lesson yet another week. In the meantime I am going to try to edit the lesson down into a more "Blogging for Dummies" approved size.
Ohh! I just remembered I have not done my annual budget countdown. So I'll do that real quick....
Ohh! I just remembered I have not done my annual budget countdown. So I'll do that real quick....
Deal Alert- Target
If you didn't print your Target printables last week go here to take advantage of some great Target Only discounts. The great thing about Target Printables is that you can print as many as you want.
The Motts applesauce Target Printable does not expire until 3/28 so you can still take advantage of this deal.
The Motts applesauce Target Printable does not expire until 3/28 so you can still take advantage of this deal.
Motts Apple Sauce priced at $1.69
Use $1 off 1 target printable AND $0.55 off 1 from here
Final Price: $0.14 after both coupons
GE Energy-Saving Light Bulbs on sale for $1
Final Price: $0.14 after both coupons
GE Energy-Saving Light Bulbs on sale for $1
Use $1.50 off 2 from 1/4 SS or use $0.50 0ff 1 from April All You Magazine
Final Price: $0.25 to $0.50
Note: I did not see this sale advertised in our Target Flyer so I can not confirm it is a true deal in our region. Let us know one way or the other!
Gillete Shampoos, Conditioners, and Body Washes are supposedly on sale for $2
Use $2 off 1 from 3/1 PG
Final Price: FREE
Note: I was not able to find these last week BUT one DRSer wrote in and said she did find them- so good luck!Use $2 off 1 from 3/1 PG
Final Price: FREE
Buy 5 Quaker products and get $5 Target gift card back
Includes 8-12 qt Instant Oatmeal or Oatmeal to-go bars priced at $2.50; 5 ct. Fiber an Omega 3 bars priced at $2.50; 16 oz Quaker Squares priced at $2.50, 10 ct. Quaker Chewy Bars priced a $2; 6 ct. Quaker Rice Cakes.
Use various coupons from 1/4 RP, 1/18 RP, 2/8 RP, and 3/8 RP
You can use your $5 gift card to purchase more Quaker products for an additional $5 gift card if you want to do this deal more than once.
Target also has Yoplait Yogurts on sale 10 for $5
Big Thanks to MoneySavingMom for posting about some of these deals!
Deal Alert- Kroger
For the third week in a row Kroger continues it's "Buy 10 Participating Items Get $5 Off" event. Remember you must buy a combination of 10 participating items to get the $5 discount up to 3 times. To get the most out of these type of events be very careful to get exactly 10 or 20 or 30 items. Click here to see a complete list of participating items.
I believe most, if not all, of the participating items from the previous 2 weeks continue to be a part of the sale as well as a few new items. Go here to see last weeks match-ups.
Classico Pasta Sauce at $2.29 on sale at $1.79 with Buy 10 Event
Use this $1 off 2 coupon
Final Price: $1.29 each with coupon and 10 Event
Land'O lakes Margarine at $1.49 or $0.99 with Buy 10 Event
Go here to print a $0.55 off 1 coupon
Final Price: FREE plus overages after coupon and 10 Event
Sargento Shredded or Sliced Cheese at $2.49 or $1.99 with Buy 10 Event
Ziplock Bags at $2.49 or $1.99 with Buy 10 Event
Use $0.40 off 1 from 3/15 SS
Final Price: $1.19 with coupon and 10 Event
Other Great Deals:
Kroger Bar, Shredded, or Deli Sliced Cheese on sale B1G1 Free
Kroger Milk or Orange Juice 1/2 gallon on sale $1.25 (Now that's a deal!!)
PS You can Freeze Milk!
Kroger Value Russet Potatoes 10lb Bag on sale $2.99
Great Deal but I think it would stress me to use/eat that many potatoes. Might be a good thing to split with another family or two!
Asparagus on sale $1.79 lb.
Strawberries on sale $1.97
Quaker Simple Harvest or Instant Oatmeal on sale $1.50 each when you buy 2 (must buy 2 to get the deal)
Use $1.35 off 2 from 1/4 SS or $1 off 2 from 2/8 RP or go here for a $1 off 2 coupon
Final Price: $0.83 to $1 each when you buy 2
Yoplait Yogurt on sale 10 for $5 or $0.50 each
Tons of printables and newspaper inserts available to score some pretty cheap yogurt
Don't forget to take advantage of that glucerna cereal deal I told you about last week!!!
Register Reward Ideas
So last week some of you scored some pretty high dollar Register Rewards at Walgreens with the Huggies Promotion. Can I just tell you that it is stressing me out knowing that you have these RR with No Great deals to spend them on this week. Please don't forget they do EXPIRE!!! Usually in 2 weeks from date issued.
So if you are nervous you will forget to spend your RR next week here are a couple of ideas I have for you. (I say "you" because I already spent my $10 RR last week!)
So if you are nervous you will forget to spend your RR next week here are a couple of ideas I have for you. (I say "you" because I already spent my $10 RR last week!)
- Use the RR to purchase all your FREE after Rebate Items. Then make sure to enter your purchases online at Walgreens.com to receive your Full Rebate PLUS 10% if you select to accept your rebate on a Walgreens Giftcard.
- Use the RR to purchase items you normally buy weekly at the grocery store. Examples: Milk, Toilet Paper, Cereal
- Walgreens has some pretty cheap toys- stock up on future birthday gifts.
Deal Alert- Walgreens
Kind of a disappointing week at Walgreens- BUT I can't complain after the AWESOME deals last week. I'm sure Walgreens needed a break after the herd of coupons came through last week.
The following are my favorite deals with thanks to the Thrifty Mama and Money Saving Mom
Rimmel Eye products are on sale B1G1 FREE
Use FREE coupon in April All You or you can use 2 $1 off 1 coupons from 3/8 RP or 2/22 RP
Final Price: varies to FREE
Wet Ones 40 ct. on sale for $1.99
Use $0.75 off 1 from 2/8
Final Price:$1.25
Reeses Candy Bar on sale $0.49 with Walgreens Flyer coupon
Use $1 off 2 from 1/4 SS
Final Price: 2 for FREE
Register Reward Deals RR
Buy Select Listerine or Reach Products at $3 each. Earn $6 RR when you buy 3
Use $3 off 3 from 3/15 SS
Final Price: FREE after RR and coupons
Buy Select Dove Products on sale 25% off. Earn $2 RR when you buy 4, Earn $6 RR when you buy 6, Earn $8 when you buy 8
One Scenario:
Buy 8 Dove Deodorants on sale for $2.47
Use 4 $1.50 off 2 coupons from 1/18 RP
Final Price: $0.72 each after coupons and RR
March Easy Saver Deals
Revlon Emery Boards priced around $1.59
Use $1 off 1 from 2/8 SS AND $1 off 1 from ES
Final Price: FREE after both coupons
Colgate Total Toothpaste 4 oz priced between $2.99 - $3.49
Use $1 off 1 from 2/22 SS or $1.50 off from recent mailer AND $2.50 off 1 from ES
Final Price: FREE after both coupons
Sambucol priced around $12.99
Final Price: FREE after both coupons (I don't think you get overages except on rebate and RR items)
March FREE after Rebate ES Deals
Advanced Memory Formula 45 count soft gels for $19.99
Final Price: FREE after rebate
Axe Hair Care $5.99
Final Price: FREE after rebate
Wal-Zyr 24 allergy relief 5 count $3.99
Final Price: FREE after rebate
Extra Strength Headache Relief 20 count gel for $2.99
Final Price: FREE after rebate
Final Price: FREE after rebate
Axe Hair Care $5.99
Final Price: FREE after rebate
Wal-Zyr 24 allergy relief 5 count $3.99
Final Price: FREE after rebate
Extra Strength Headache Relief 20 count gel for $2.99
Final Price: FREE after rebate
Deal Alert
Money Saving Mom aka the Coupon Queen and Master of Frugal Living has teamed up with her friends over at LivingonaDime.com to offer us 17 e-books for the unbelievable low price of $17! Normally this package would cost $75!
The e-books that are included in this offer are:
Supermarket Savings 101 eCourse with audio downloads
Grocery Shopping On A Budget eCourse
Money Saving Meats e-book
Saving On Cleaning Supplies e-book
Eating Healthy On A Budget e-booklet
Is Eating Out Eating You Up? e-book
224 Meals In A Hurry e-book
Grocery Savings e-book
Menus That Make Cents e-book
Plan Ahead Leftovers e-book
Quick Dinners e-book
Menu Planning Made Easy
Simply Centsible Breakfasts
Simply Centsible Suppers
Kids Recipes
Menus On A Dime
470 Crockpot Recipes
I am looking forward to taking advantage of this great offer. Go here to learn more and to get your package today! This offer expires March 23!
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Thrifty Thursday
Well it's time to stretch our Bucks once again! I have great intentions of posting another DRS Couponing 101 lesson today but I was not able to complete it last night (writers block). I hope to finish it up tonight and post it before midnight. BUT you can look forward to deal alerts from Walgreens, Target, and Kroger coming up later today as well as a special offer from my favorite blogger of frugality- MoneySavingMom!!
Share the Wealth! If you have found some great deals this week-share the wealth! Tell Mr. Linky all about it!!
Share the Wealth! If you have found some great deals this week-share the wealth! Tell Mr. Linky all about it!!
Product of the Week
Here is a great snack idea for your kids. Yoplait Kids Yogurts have 25% less sugar then most kids yogurt products AND is now fortified with DHA. (Remember DHA is that good Omega 3 we learned about last week on Wellness Wednesday). Plus they come decorated with a favorite Nick Jr. character so your kids are sure to love them.
Tip: I like to store the Yoplait Kids Smoothies in the freezer and then put one in Colby's lunch for preschool. By the time lunch rolls around they taste like a slushy! He loves them!
Nutrition Information:
Calories: varies according to product (70 - 100 Calories)
Meal Plan: 1 Milk
Kroger often has these on sale for $2
Use your $1.50 off 1 printable PLUS there are loadable coupons available for your Kroger Card
Final Price: FREE
Farewell to Wellness Wednesday
Well I guess the title of this post gave it away. As for now, Wellness Wednesday is going to be put to rest. Can I just tell you that I am soooo relieved. From day 1 this day has stressed me to the max. Why? you ask. Well, I always struggled with how much information to give each Wednesday. Let me explain....
While DRS has become a second career it is not the job that pays the bills. I work 3 days a week as a Registered Dietitian who specializes in weight management and nutrition during pregnancy. I have patients/clients that pay me their hard earned money for my expertise and therefore I felt guilty that they were paying for information I was freely giving away on this blog. In an effort not to cheat my patients/clients I often felt I was holding back information from you, only giving you a partial message instead of a full lesson... not a good feeling.
PLUS Wednesday is smack dab in the middle of my work week and the day before Thrifty Thursday (the day that takes the most preparation time) so to have Wednesday FREE.... Wow I can just feel the weight lifting off my shoulders.
So Wednesdays are now going to be FREEEEEEE! Much like Scrapbook Saturdays- no agenda!! I'm thinking about calling it... Wildcard Wednesdays. What do you think? I was trying to think of a word to describe "rest" or "break" but couldn't think of a "W" word, so unless something comes to me on my 45 minute, one way, radioless commute to work today, or you have a better idea... it will probably be Wildcard Wednesday.
For the 2 people that voted for Wellness Wednesday... I tell you what.... One day, when I figure out how to make this blog profitable, I will resign from my day job and reinstate Wellness Wednesday. Because you see, I am VERY passionate about nutrition and wellness, and I will need an outlet to preach the good news about Balanced Nutrition. Until then, I'm going to work on my own wellness and use this day for rest and catching up.
PS I did include a Product of the Week post today, complete with a high dollar coupon- so be sure to check back around noon to learn about a great snack idea for your kiddos.
My goodness, Have you ever seen such a high maintenance blog?!?! I know your thinking "Niki, who cares what you do on Wednesday or what you call it. No one obsesses about this blog like you." Point taken.
While DRS has become a second career it is not the job that pays the bills. I work 3 days a week as a Registered Dietitian who specializes in weight management and nutrition during pregnancy. I have patients/clients that pay me their hard earned money for my expertise and therefore I felt guilty that they were paying for information I was freely giving away on this blog. In an effort not to cheat my patients/clients I often felt I was holding back information from you, only giving you a partial message instead of a full lesson... not a good feeling.
PLUS Wednesday is smack dab in the middle of my work week and the day before Thrifty Thursday (the day that takes the most preparation time) so to have Wednesday FREE.... Wow I can just feel the weight lifting off my shoulders.
So Wednesdays are now going to be FREEEEEEE! Much like Scrapbook Saturdays- no agenda!! I'm thinking about calling it... Wildcard Wednesdays. What do you think? I was trying to think of a word to describe "rest" or "break" but couldn't think of a "W" word, so unless something comes to me on my 45 minute, one way, radioless commute to work today, or you have a better idea... it will probably be Wildcard Wednesday.
For the 2 people that voted for Wellness Wednesday... I tell you what.... One day, when I figure out how to make this blog profitable, I will resign from my day job and reinstate Wellness Wednesday. Because you see, I am VERY passionate about nutrition and wellness, and I will need an outlet to preach the good news about Balanced Nutrition. Until then, I'm going to work on my own wellness and use this day for rest and catching up.
PS I did include a Product of the Week post today, complete with a high dollar coupon- so be sure to check back around noon to learn about a great snack idea for your kiddos.
My goodness, Have you ever seen such a high maintenance blog?!?! I know your thinking "Niki, who cares what you do on Wednesday or what you call it. No one obsesses about this blog like you." Point taken.
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
What was I thinking?
Ok, by now you know that I don't have a lick of spontaneity in me. I plan EVERYTHING! So last night I don't know what came over me to write my Dear DRS letter. Ok, yes I do... BUT can I just tell you I had regrets the moment I pushed post. This blog has become part of my life and I am not ready to give up on it. Yes, it is extremely time consuming, but it is also a form of therapy! I mean really, it is quite liberating to air my dirty kitchen, to confess my short comings, to share my shopping successes and to know someone out there might feel the same way. I just got to figure out a way to find a healthier balance between Donna and Niki. But guess what?....................... I got a plan!
I really appreciate all of you who voted today to let me know which days you enjoy/use the most. Guess what? Those were my favorite days too! The 2 days I get the most feedback on are Mealtime Mondays and Thrifty Thursdays so these two are definitely staying. I was so humbled by the number of votes Sonday Sunday received because this is a day that ministers to ME. I sometimes wonder if the short devotionals are too personal and if anyone else can relate. I just know that the Lord has been so faithful to give me a verse every week that meets me right where I am at and ministers to me in that moment; so even if this day had received zero votes I was selfishly going to continue with this one... if not for any other reason then it is my weekly standing appointment with Jesus.
As far as the other days.... I think my husband would vote to keep Tidy Tuesday and I owe it to my children to dedicate a day on the blog to Familytime. By the way Familytime Friday got no votes- I'm ok with that because by Friday I am usually so pooped this day gets neglected so now I won't feel so bad if I don't get it done- BUT if I decide to post about our family activities I'll have a designated place to post it. Scrapbook Saturday? Why not! No pressure with that one, it can stay. So that leads me to Wellness Wednesday.....................
This post has become entirely too long. Blogging for Dummies would not approve. So for now I am signing off. Tomorrow you will learn the fate of Wellness Wednesday and sometime soon I will reveal my plan for making DRS a more manageable project. Until then, thanks again. You'll never know how much it means to me to have you visit my little blog and share my life!
Look here Mom, it's before 10:30 and I'm going to bed. My new plan is working... except my kitchen is still a wreck and I can't see the surface of that darn kitchen table. Baby steps....
I really appreciate all of you who voted today to let me know which days you enjoy/use the most. Guess what? Those were my favorite days too! The 2 days I get the most feedback on are Mealtime Mondays and Thrifty Thursdays so these two are definitely staying. I was so humbled by the number of votes Sonday Sunday received because this is a day that ministers to ME. I sometimes wonder if the short devotionals are too personal and if anyone else can relate. I just know that the Lord has been so faithful to give me a verse every week that meets me right where I am at and ministers to me in that moment; so even if this day had received zero votes I was selfishly going to continue with this one... if not for any other reason then it is my weekly standing appointment with Jesus.
As far as the other days.... I think my husband would vote to keep Tidy Tuesday and I owe it to my children to dedicate a day on the blog to Familytime. By the way Familytime Friday got no votes- I'm ok with that because by Friday I am usually so pooped this day gets neglected so now I won't feel so bad if I don't get it done- BUT if I decide to post about our family activities I'll have a designated place to post it. Scrapbook Saturday? Why not! No pressure with that one, it can stay. So that leads me to Wellness Wednesday.....................
This post has become entirely too long. Blogging for Dummies would not approve. So for now I am signing off. Tomorrow you will learn the fate of Wellness Wednesday and sometime soon I will reveal my plan for making DRS a more manageable project. Until then, thanks again. You'll never know how much it means to me to have you visit my little blog and share my life!
Look here Mom, it's before 10:30 and I'm going to bed. My new plan is working... except my kitchen is still a wreck and I can't see the surface of that darn kitchen table. Baby steps....
Zone 1- Kitchen
Odd Months
Day 1- Tuesday
Day 1- Tuesday
- Clean Fridge inside & Out
- Clean Light Fixtures
- Shine Sink (I use the turtle wax to shine my sink)
Day 2- Wednesday
- Clean and organize all cabinets
- Clean and organize all drawers
- Clean outside of cabinets
Day 3- Thursday
- Clean oven
- Clean stovetop
- Clean all knick knacks (everything that sits on top of the counters ex: coffee pot)
- Clean Microwave
Day 4- Friday
- Clean and organize pantry
- Clean Floors
- Clean behind Fridge
- Clean baseboards
Day 4- Saturday
- Detail highchair
- Dust Buffet and Cookbooks
- Clean inside and out china cabinet
- Dust of polish table
Sunday and Monday- OFF
It's Tidy Tuesday Time! Can you believe it is already time for Zone 1 again? Personally, I am excited about zone 1 falling in the middle of the month because it's like a second chance at a fresh start for the month of March (the first fresh start being the beginning of the month- don't worry if it didn't make sense... anyways....) Maybe this will be the zone rotation that I actually complete- 3rd times the charm! Right?...
Bring on the Kitchen......................
Tell Mr. Linky if you want to join me, or if you want accountability on any other cleaning/organizing project this week.
Bring on the Kitchen......................
Tell Mr. Linky if you want to join me, or if you want accountability on any other cleaning/organizing project this week.
Monday, March 16, 2009
Dear DRS Readers-
This blog has slowly taken over my life. When I first began the blog I had high hopes that it would be the ultimate tool to organize my life so I could "get it ALL done;" however, I have found that now I am less efficient and have less time because instead of "doing" I am writing about doing. As much as I wanted to be Donna Reed I have come to the realization that her life is just plain exhausting. My DH has sat me down tonight to tell me something has to give. I can't keep this pace..................... So I am shutting down this blog.
Just Kidding. My DRS won't let me quit!!! BUT for the sake of my marriage I do need to scale it down quite a bit. What I would like to do is cut the seven themes down to three. I have an idea of the three themes I would like to stick with but I would love your input. Please use the poll below to let me know what days on DRS you enjoy or utilize the most. I am also going to put a Mr. Linky up just in case you would like to leave a comment about this decision. If you have never commented before, this poll would be a great time to voice your opinion. Feel free to vote up to 3 times. Thanks so much. I hope you all understand.
PS I have no idea why the poll does not put the days in order! Drives me nuts.
This blog has slowly taken over my life. When I first began the blog I had high hopes that it would be the ultimate tool to organize my life so I could "get it ALL done;" however, I have found that now I am less efficient and have less time because instead of "doing" I am writing about doing. As much as I wanted to be Donna Reed I have come to the realization that her life is just plain exhausting. My DH has sat me down tonight to tell me something has to give. I can't keep this pace..................... So I am shutting down this blog.
Just Kidding. My DRS won't let me quit!!! BUT for the sake of my marriage I do need to scale it down quite a bit. What I would like to do is cut the seven themes down to three. I have an idea of the three themes I would like to stick with but I would love your input. Please use the poll below to let me know what days on DRS you enjoy or utilize the most. I am also going to put a Mr. Linky up just in case you would like to leave a comment about this decision. If you have never commented before, this poll would be a great time to voice your opinion. Feel free to vote up to 3 times. Thanks so much. I hope you all understand.
PS I have no idea why the poll does not put the days in order! Drives me nuts.
Mexican Casserole
This recipe was one of DH favorites growing up. I requested the recipe from his mama and have made some minor adjustments to lighten it up a bit. DH still requests this dish every year for his birthday. All my boys will be excited to see this dish on the menu this week! Hope your family enjoys it too!
Mexican Casserole
1 lb. lean ground beef cooked seasoned with taco seasoning
1 can healthy request cream of mushroom soup
1 can Ranch style beans (or can use chili beans)
2 cups 2% Mexican cheese blend
1/2 bag of Baked Doritos
Green Pepper
Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Crush Doritos and pour into bottom of a 9x13 baking dish (might want to use some PAM first). Next layer 1/2 of seasoned beef and 1/2 of beans followed by can of mushroom soup and 1/2 of cheese. Repeat with rest of beef, beans and cheese. I like to slice Green Pepper into rings and place on top of casserole. Bake about 30 minutes or until cheese is melted.
Nutrition Information
Serving Size: 1/6th
Meal Plan: ~445 Calories; 4 meats, 2.5 starches, 1.5 fats
Mexican Casserole
1 lb. lean ground beef cooked seasoned with taco seasoning
1 can healthy request cream of mushroom soup
1 can Ranch style beans (or can use chili beans)
2 cups 2% Mexican cheese blend
1/2 bag of Baked Doritos
Green Pepper
Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Crush Doritos and pour into bottom of a 9x13 baking dish (might want to use some PAM first). Next layer 1/2 of seasoned beef and 1/2 of beans followed by can of mushroom soup and 1/2 of cheese. Repeat with rest of beef, beans and cheese. I like to slice Green Pepper into rings and place on top of casserole. Bake about 30 minutes or until cheese is melted.
Nutrition Information
Serving Size: 1/6th
Meal Plan: ~445 Calories; 4 meats, 2.5 starches, 1.5 fats
Vegetable Pizza
This recipe has been a part of Mealtime Monday before BUT this time I left off the chicken. The nutrition information was adjusted to reflect this change.
Vegetable Pizza
Thin Ready Made Pizza Crust
1/4 cup Pesto Sauce
1 Bag Fresh Spinach
1 Tomato sliced thinly
Jalapeño Peppers (as desired)
6 oz Feta Cheese
Other vegetables as desired
Directions: Preheat oven to 375◦. Spread Pesto on Crust. Add spinach, followed by remainder of vegetables. Sprinkle with Feta Cheese. Bake until spinach is wilted and cheese is melted.
Nutrition Information
Serving Size: 1/4 of pizza
Meal Plan: Calories: 370, 2 starches, 2 vegetables, 1.5 meats, 2 fats
Vegetable Pizza
Thin Ready Made Pizza Crust
1/4 cup Pesto Sauce
1 Bag Fresh Spinach
1 Tomato sliced thinly
Jalapeño Peppers (as desired)
6 oz Feta Cheese
Other vegetables as desired
Directions: Preheat oven to 375◦. Spread Pesto on Crust. Add spinach, followed by remainder of vegetables. Sprinkle with Feta Cheese. Bake until spinach is wilted and cheese is melted.
Nutrition Information
Serving Size: 1/4 of pizza
Meal Plan: Calories: 370, 2 starches, 2 vegetables, 1.5 meats, 2 fats
Crockpot Roast with Carrots and Potatoes
Can't get much simpler then this recipe. And yet oh so flavorful. Just to let you in on a little secret, I don't ever take the time to brown my roast before I put it in the crockpot- perhaps I should, but it has always tasted just fine without this step.
Go here for the recipe.
Crockpot Roast with Carrots and Potatoes
Nutrition Information: nutrition info and recommended serving size provided by allrecpes.com
Serving Size: 1/8th of recipe (this is a huge serving, could easily do a smaller serving size)
Meal Plan: 540 Calories; 6.5 oz meat, 1 starch, 1 vegetable, 3 fats (would be a lot less with smaller serving size and could choose a leaner cut of meat)
Go here for the recipe.
Crockpot Roast with Carrots and Potatoes
Nutrition Information: nutrition info and recommended serving size provided by allrecpes.com
Serving Size: 1/8th of recipe (this is a huge serving, could easily do a smaller serving size)
Meal Plan: 540 Calories; 6.5 oz meat, 1 starch, 1 vegetable, 3 fats (would be a lot less with smaller serving size and could choose a leaner cut of meat)
Blackened Chicken Salad
When planning this month's menu I wanted to include a blackened chicken salad. I ran across this recipe on allrecipes.com and just had to try it. I'll let you know how it turns out.
Blackened Chicken Salad
I am not a fan of olives so I left them out. For simplicity's sake I also left out the arugula. I used PAM instead of the oil. And I doubled the dressing and lettuce so that we could easily serve 4.
Nutrition Information:
Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe according to my modifications
Meal Plan: ~260 Calories, 3 very lean meats, 2.5 vegetables, 2 fats
At only 260 Calories, this might be a good night for the fam to check out the new Cold Stone Creamery!
Blackened Chicken Salad
I am not a fan of olives so I left them out. For simplicity's sake I also left out the arugula. I used PAM instead of the oil. And I doubled the dressing and lettuce so that we could easily serve 4.
Nutrition Information:
Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe according to my modifications
Meal Plan: ~260 Calories, 3 very lean meats, 2.5 vegetables, 2 fats
At only 260 Calories, this might be a good night for the fam to check out the new Cold Stone Creamery!
Salmon Teriyaki
Here is a quick recipe that is sure to pack in some great Omega 3s.
Go here for the recipe.
Maple Teriyaki Salmon
I used Sugar Free Maple Syrup
Nutrition Information:
Serving Size: 4 oz salmon
Meal Plan: 210 Calories; 4 meat and 1/2 starch
I am going to serve this with rice and stir-fry vegetables.
Go here for the recipe.
Maple Teriyaki Salmon
I used Sugar Free Maple Syrup
Nutrition Information:
Serving Size: 4 oz salmon
Meal Plan: 210 Calories; 4 meat and 1/2 starch
I am going to serve this with rice and stir-fry vegetables.
Mealtime Monday
I am excited to report that ALL prep work for this weeks meals was easily completed before my 1 hour 30 minute deadline! I would say I cleared it by at least 15 minutes. Let me break it down for ya:
- 2 Crockpot Roast Dinners
- 2 Mexican Casseroles
- 2 Blackened Chicken Salads
- 2 Vegetable Pizzas
- 2 Salmon Teriyaki Meals
- Side Salads for 2 families
Most of the recipes this week are tried and true and those that I have not tried look pretty safe- so I am thinking we are in for a yummy week. Here is my recommendations for meal prep, storage, and serving:
Monday Night- Blackened Chicken Salad. To prep for this meal I went ahead and prepared the chicken, sliced it up, and stored it in the fridge. I prepared the lettuce (washed, chopped, and spinned) and stored in gallon size ziplock in fridge. I also cut up the sun dried tomatoes and mixed the dressing and stored separately in fridge. Tonight I will chop up avocado and toss all ingredients together and serve.
Tuesday Night- Crockpot Roast. Normally I like to do my crockpot meals on Wed but this Tuesday I have a women's event at church so this will be a great meal the boys can serve up without me. To prep I simply dumped all of the ingredients except the water into a ziplock bag and will store in fridge until Tuesday morning. Tuesday morning I will add water and contents of ziplock bag to crockpot and cook on low all day.
Wednesday Night- Salmon Teriyaki. To prep I did NOT defrost Salmon but simply added frozen salmon to a freezer ziplock bag and mixed all other ingredients into the bag. I will store in freezer until Tuesday Night. Tuesday night I will transfer salmon from freezer to fridge to allow the Salmon to thaw over the next 24 hours. Tuesday night I will take salmon out of marinade and grill.
Thursday Night- Mexican Casserole. This dish was fully prepped and placed in freezer. Wednesday night I will transfer casserole from freezer to fridge. Thursday night I will take casserole out of fridge and bake.
Friday Night- Out or Leftovers
Saturday Night- Out or Leftovers
Sunday Afternoon- Vegetable Pizza. After pizza was fully prepped I placed several layers of foil around pizza and placed in freezer. Saturday I will transfer pizza from freezer to fridge. I'll bake up and serve after church next Sunday.
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Black Bean Burgers- Verdict
I wanted to update you on the black bean burgers. The taste was great! The consistency- not so great! I was hoping to fool my 4 year old with this fiber rich bean burger but after one bite into the mush he had it figured out. We grilled the burgers at our house and the other family pan fried their burgers and we both reported consistency problems. The burgers just didn't hold together or firm up like I had anticipated. Although tasty, I think I'll stick to MorningStar Spicy Black Bean Burgers in the future!
Sonday Sunday
I have always loved the verse "I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength." For many years this was one of the only verses I could recite from memory. I would pull it out anytime I was in a tough predicament or about to do something challenging. It was often the extra motivation I needed to "get the job done," or the extra push I relied on to finish a race.
Recently, however, I have seen this verse in a whole new light. ALWAYS before I had plucked this verse straight off the 4th chapter of Philippians with no mind to the verses that surrounded it- until recently. Did you know that Paul was actually writing about contentment? Read below the verses that proceed vs. 13.
... for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength. Philippians 4: 11-13
Before I had always looked to this verse for motivation to get me to the next level or through the next challenge, But actually this verse is a challenge to be content IN whatever situation we face!
Wow! What a message. How applicable in our current economic times. Instead of lusting after what I don't have or chasing after the next opportunity to make a little extra cash to "get ahead" I need to learn to be content with what I do have and be grateful for the provision the Lord continues to provide.
I think I'll post Philippians 4:13 to the Dashboard in "my car" as a reminder to be content and grateful as I drive off to face each day.
Recently, however, I have seen this verse in a whole new light. ALWAYS before I had plucked this verse straight off the 4th chapter of Philippians with no mind to the verses that surrounded it- until recently. Did you know that Paul was actually writing about contentment? Read below the verses that proceed vs. 13.
... for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength. Philippians 4: 11-13
Before I had always looked to this verse for motivation to get me to the next level or through the next challenge, But actually this verse is a challenge to be content IN whatever situation we face!
Wow! What a message. How applicable in our current economic times. Instead of lusting after what I don't have or chasing after the next opportunity to make a little extra cash to "get ahead" I need to learn to be content with what I do have and be grateful for the provision the Lord continues to provide.
I think I'll post Philippians 4:13 to the Dashboard in "my car" as a reminder to be content and grateful as I drive off to face each day.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)