tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-51609803998999046562024-03-13T21:26:37.762-07:00Altered MomentsMoments, big and small, just bits and pieces that make me who I am.nfabandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14602209788560333463noreply@blogger.comBlogger39125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5160980399899904656.post-56840215353196526102021-12-21T14:44:00.002-08:002021-12-21T14:44:46.207-08:00The Holidays are Here and saying Goodbye to 2021<p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEglGj4DOMF8o-S4x75YmvbMvGTWKGCzAxW8UBSaxVeW2C-P-MEMiqdc6W6s3Yw996j_5IJ5Ye_P41Wbtif1SAAfwuh7Z2MN8vPFbQiBh9rlGPvB7VYkpQeVWDJ7DjkK8x6jN810gGOJF1DpYvLzW5ZmiQqHWXyvfFi1Ny8Xg64Do57-m03vwY2_kcdS=s2048" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEglGj4DOMF8o-S4x75YmvbMvGTWKGCzAxW8UBSaxVeW2C-P-MEMiqdc6W6s3Yw996j_5IJ5Ye_P41Wbtif1SAAfwuh7Z2MN8vPFbQiBh9rlGPvB7VYkpQeVWDJ7DjkK8x6jN810gGOJF1DpYvLzW5ZmiQqHWXyvfFi1Ny8Xg64Do57-m03vwY2_kcdS=s320" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"> <span style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-size: 15px; white-space: pre-wrap;">When you think of Christmas and your fondest memories what comes to mind, what was it that made you the happiest? Is it the people or the places you traveled, the food you ate or perhaps the gifts received, maybe even a gift you gave?</span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-size: 15px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"> Having a birthday near Christmas and as a child always feeling a bit let down if I had to pick out a Birthday gift from under the tree, or receiving a gift at a party that was wrapped in Christmas paper, I was used to think, why can't people just use birthday paper like the rest of the year? Don't get me wrong I loved Christmas but I always wanted it to be very separate from "my day". There was even a time in my life for a few short years when I changed my birthday to April, just so I could actually have a gift that didn't come from under the tree and a cake decorated for a birthday and not Christmas. It didn't mentally damage me though to have a birthday close to Christmas, but it made me care for Christmas just a little bit less especially as as a child. </span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-size: 15px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"> As I've gotten older (yeah much older) I've had more time to reflect on the things that have meant the most to me and when it comes down to it, none of them had anything to do with the gifts under the tree, one less or one more would not have made a difference of course when you are little one less can be a pretty horrible thing especially when you have to pick the one that is coming out before Christmas.</span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-size: 15px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"> As a much younger girl living in Long Beach, CA. with my family, my mom and dad borrowed a white tree one year, I think to make us feel more like we were back home on the East Coast where trees would have naturally been covered with snow, it was fully decked out with ornaments and tinsel, I don't remember if there were lights on the tree, but I know that mom had also borrowed a revolving 4 color disc light that was facing the tree and as it turned those colors would light up the tree and the ornaments on it. She also had a borrowed set off world dolls which were proudly displayed on the windowsill in our family room for all to see as they walked by outside. I don't remember any of the gifts I got that year, or the food we ate at our Christmas Dinner, but I do remember how loved it made me feel being there with my whole family enjoying that Christmas. </span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-size: 15px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">This year as we approach another holiday where we should be socially distancing as another type of covid spreads, I invite you to think about those years when maybe you didn't have as much as you wanted, or you weren't with those people you wished you could be with, take a trip down memory lane and remember what made you the happiest. So many this year will be alone for the first time, some will be homeless, so many facing indefinite futures. Help where you can, be kind and give whatever you have the capacity of giving, for some it will be financial, and for some it may just be a smile or a cup of coffee for the person behind you in line, just do it, see how it makes you feel, and remember to find some joy in the season and pass it on.</span></span></p>nfabandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14602209788560333463noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5160980399899904656.post-90590344756478298332020-10-29T18:48:00.005-07:002020-10-30T05:53:35.624-07:00<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: large;">Updates ... I suppose!</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNzRNp7Stcx5sU66QcmBolqKskVkWderMDvBOBMHUlq-oLH0dh0KuHd14vqzFswCQ-r4omSmgNpRNuAuHRmpJKWfo4L_hn8iqNHaF4ZYag1w9V-D_H-F7-Ekx1lInoBrH8jG18X77QETY/s960/228589_4284711010989_1543370777_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="541" data-original-width="960" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNzRNp7Stcx5sU66QcmBolqKskVkWderMDvBOBMHUlq-oLH0dh0KuHd14vqzFswCQ-r4omSmgNpRNuAuHRmpJKWfo4L_hn8iqNHaF4ZYag1w9V-D_H-F7-Ekx1lInoBrH8jG18X77QETY/s320/228589_4284711010989_1543370777_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>It's been a hot minute since I've checked in and updated my blog, so long as a matter of fact I couldn't even remember the blog address, LOL, it took a few tries.<p></p><p style="text-align: center;">1. We moved from the Condo we were living in back in early 2019, we weren't expecting to move, but someone in our life made a move which meant the condo we were in had to be sold. It was very upsetting to have to move again.</p><p style="text-align: center;">2. Found a nice house, in a nice beach community and were approved for rental. It's small with 3 small bedrooms, 2 baths, and a kitchen/living room combination. What we love most is that we have a nice fenced in backyard for our puppy girls, they LOVE being able to go outside without a leash and just lay in the sun all day long. </p><p style="text-align: center;">3. My girl had moved in with us, but that didn't last long as she and her boyfriend were given a chance to rent a nice apartment in another beautiful beach community, so off she went. The only sad part is that she is about 40 minutes from us and I don't drive the freeways, so I don't see her often.</p><p style="text-align: center;">4. The hubs and I are finally "empty nesters" ... we LOVE it, I can't even imagine living with our kids now. It's great to see them, but living with your grown adult kids isn't easy on anyone.</p><p style="text-align: center;">5. Covid 19 aka Corona Virus hit the United States and has virtually shut us down (no thanks to Donald Trump). Nine months in to this and we have over 220,000 deaths, incredible numbers of those who have been sick with it, people losing jobs and companies have shut down, restaurants cannot seat people inside, it's been crazy. We wear face masks everywhere we go, we carry hand sanitizer and use it like it's going out of style. Even doctors offices have been doing zoom video appointments for non-emergencies to lessen the risk of becoming infected. It's been horrible, families are becoming homeless, marriages breaking up due to the stress involved, and suicides, depression and anxiety are up as well. Praying for things to get better, but I expect it will be a good while before we see a change. The only good thing to come from this mess is that the hubs and I have been picking up take-out once a week or so and going down to the bay to watch the boats come in and out while we eat, we even catch a great sunset sometimes.</p><p style="text-align: center;">6. November 3rd we will be voting for a new President. I have voted already and am hoping for a great change. God Help us all if Trump cheats and gets in again. </p><p style="text-align: center;">7. My Uncle Carl died, he fell and hit his head, he had a brain bleed and we suspect a stroke. He was my last surviving uncle, and was like a dad to me as my own dad died when I was a child. Life will never be the same without him, I miss him terribly.</p><p style="text-align: center;">8. I've had some medical struggles lately, my diabetes has been a bit hard to control, but part of that is my fault, I need to try harder with my diet and exercise. I also have Stage 3 Kidney Disease, but am hoping that if I can get that Diabetes under control the kidneys will not get worse anytime soon. I'm also having a rough go with my Triglycerides, they are much to high, so I'm taking meds for that as well. </p><p style="text-align: center;">9. Crafting and Card Making has been my sanity most days. I make tons of cards and I craft some other fun stuff once in awhile. My latest creation is a Halloween Decoration for my girl, its a Spell Book, kind of like the one from the movie Hocus Locus.</p><p style="text-align: center;">10. Not much else is new around here, I'll try to keep up here when I have more to say.</p><p style="text-align: center;">Thanks for reading this far, I hope you are well and safe and gosh darn it, go Vote.<br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p>nfabandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14602209788560333463noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5160980399899904656.post-32937660457556023832019-04-17T09:35:00.001-07:002019-04-17T09:41:03.760-07:00The Day You Left Us<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;">SEVEN YEARS</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">2556 Days</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">61,344 Hours</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">3,680,640 Minutes</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">That's a very long time</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">and yet</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">It seems like just yesterday!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">That day I received a phone call from the Principal at your school,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">she called to tell me you had been taken by ambulance to Lawrence & Memorial,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">you were unconscious, and they had found you on the floor of your classroom.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">My ears started to Buzz ...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I couldn't hear what she was saying anymore ...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I remember screaming in the phone "Is he dead"</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I screamed again "I'm on my way".</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I called for Morgan to come home immediately from her job which thankfully was literally right around the corner that day.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">We drove to the hospital ...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Not knowing what we would find when we got there ...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I remember telling Morgan, I think he died.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Then when we walked in to the hospital they got the doctor to come and talk to us,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I KNEW THEN ...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">IT WAS BAD NEWS.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I'm so sorry to tell you that your husband had a massive heart attack and passed away, we were unable to revive him.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">... and there's that buzzing in my ears again, it just wouldn't stop.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">How does one go on from that point,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">you just do, even when you don't want to, you just do.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">It wasn't easy, I walked around waiting for someone to tell me it didn't really happen ...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">but no one did.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Thank God for all the family and friends that helped to get both Morgan and I through your passing.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">We didn't get through it unscathed,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">there were tears</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">and anger</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">and yet</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">we carried on, because that's what you would have wanted us to do.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">There are still hard moments and days when we think about you and miss you, I suppose that will never change.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">You filled our lives with joy and love.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">You changed our world for the better.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">You will never be forgotten Brian.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">LOVE,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Me and the Girl</span></div>
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nfabandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14602209788560333463noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5160980399899904656.post-91733489632862020892018-10-17T11:05:00.001-07:002018-10-17T11:08:00.312-07:00A Recipe Share ... <div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b>A Recipe Share for everyone today.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I love You Tube, and follow quite a few people there.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Sometimes they share cooking video's and recipes,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">and sometimes I like them so much I want to share them as well.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">The following recipe is from "The Queens Cabinet".</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">The creator is a lady named Shelby who is currently cooking a Keto Diet for her family, as her husband has rejoined the national guard and needs to make his Army weight.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Basically she is going through her own recipes and converting them for Keto and WW.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">This one is a recipe for a Artichoke Dip that she made and then used on top of grilled chicken breasts, which she popped in to the oven for just a few minutes to bubble up the dip.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">It looked amazing and she said it was a 10 out of 10, something she will make again for sure.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">How many ways might you find to use this dip in your healthier eating. At our house we need to eat less carbs so this would be delicious used with the chicken in the recipe, used with fresh veggies, perhaps even fish (I don't eat fish but my husband loves it).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Here's the Recipe for the Dip.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "roboto" , "arial" , sans-serif; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Creamy Artichoke Chicken</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-family: "roboto" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;">
</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-family: "roboto" , "arial" , sans-serif; white-space: pre-wrap;">-4 grilled chicken cutlets
-1 cup mayonnaise
-1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
-14 oz can artichoke hearts drained and quartered
-1 clove garlic finely minced
-4 oz diced green chilies</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-family: "roboto" , "arial" , sans-serif; white-space: pre-wrap;">
Place grilled chicken on sheet tray. Mix remainder ingredients in bowl and mix. Top each chicken breast with 1/10th of the mixture. Bake at 350 for 20 minutes or until bubbly and lightly golden.
1/10th of dip recipe is 1.2 carbs, 190 calories and 7 WW Smart Points</span></div>
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nfabandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14602209788560333463noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5160980399899904656.post-6020531229347865482018-10-11T13:19:00.002-07:002018-10-11T13:36:56.371-07:00Things That Bug Me ... <div style="text-align: center;">
You guessed it, this post is all about things that bug me.</div>
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1. People who home school without a plan. I watch a lot of You Tuber's and many of them home school their kids. Now that's not a bad thing if you have a plan, if you follow a program, if you are making sure that you are teaching your kids properly and that you are making sure your kids have a chance to socialize properly. One family I watch lives in Utah, they have 9 children, some of which are adopted. They are by their own admission "unschooling" their kids. I asked if they follow a curriculum daily and was told "no, our kids are responsible for education at their own pace, we encourage them to do what they enjoy and not get caught in the binds of a strict state designed curriculum. Most given days the kids are "playing", building forts, chasing one another outside, going on hikes with the mom and dad, making jewelry, yada, yada, yada. They do not take state mandated exams and it is up to the parents to decide when they are ready to graduate. HOW CAN THIS BE OK? The other day on a trip to a big box store looking for a gift for their dad, one of the young daughters, who appears to be about 12 years old did not know what an outside Thermometer was used for (something you might learn if you went to school) she by the way spend much of her time making earrings to sell. Another son recently who is old enough to have two jobs went in to the thrift store looking for toys that he is obviously to old for and he was being dropped off at work early because he was bored, there was nothing to do at home (how about Math, Science, or Reading). I guess Utah does not have any strict guidelines for home schooling, in my opinion they need some. The good thing I've seen now is that they have enrolled their youngest two in school for a bevy of reasons, both have speech problems as they were born in another country, one of them is down syndrome and cannot guide herself in education, this makes me happy. Then their oldest who would be a senior in high school has decided to go to school for all electives in things he enjoys, apparently the school is OK with his having done all his core work on his own, I guess some schooling is better than none. Then today they mentioned two of the middle aged kids have decided to go to school on a short day program, thank goodness. I believe those kids are bored stiff and need some socialization outside of their home and church activities, sometimes when their parents turn the camera on them and ask them what they are up to they say "nothing". What makes me really sad is that so many people think this is the way to go and it worries me that we are raising a generation of self indulged kids with no idea how to work with time restraints and schedules. Kids need structure, they need guidance and discipline and they need to know they can't live their whole lives getting up when they please, working if they feel like it, learning if they "like" it and not just because it's what will help them in the future. If you're going to home school, do it right and don't think your little ones can "do it on their own without their parents guiding them, they cannot". </div>
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2. Contractors really drive me crazy, mostly because they work on their own schedules and never show up on time. We've had them here a few times over the past few weeks, lots of "we'll be there by such and such a time", they they either don't show up at all or they literally show up hours later. There's nothing we can do though, we certainly need their skills.</div>
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3. Cell Phones at the Dinner Table, it drives me insane especially when everyone has one pulled out to text, check Face book, emails etc. and no one speaks. Put your DANG Phone away for 20 minutes.</div>
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4. Bugs, bug me ... especially when you live in a condominium and the association should take care of treating for the little and big pests and they sit on it. Spray, treat ... kill them and make sure they don't come in my house. </div>
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Sorry nothing super positive, just a few things on my mind that I needed to get out of there.</div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: #bd081c; background-image: url(data:image/svg+xml; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 230px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 54px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: #bd081c; background-image: url(data:image/svg+xml; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 230px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 54px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span>nfabandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14602209788560333463noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5160980399899904656.post-21475320624321444852018-09-11T11:42:00.002-07:002018-09-11T22:36:03.625-07:00Fall is Coming<div style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: purple; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">I love Fall!</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I really miss my <span style="color: purple;">Fall</span> days back east as we don't really get them where I live in Southern California, yes some of the trees turn colors (much later in the season than the East Coast), we can purchase delicious apples at the Farmers Markets, but it's not the same. There are no cool mornings with the smell of cold dew on the leaves that have fallen, smoke in the air from fireplaces warming homes, and wool sweaters and socks to keep us warm.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I'm sitting in my living room right now, with the sun shining brightly through the windows here at home. The sliders and windows are all open to let in the fresh air and my fans are all on while I am wearing shorts and a t-shirt.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Certainly none of that brings to mind a cool <span style="color: purple;">Fall</span> day.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I am home a lot during the days, taking care of my pups and paper crafting when the mood hits. I also watch a lot of You Tube video's in search of inspiration of many kinds, card making ideas, cooking, knitting and crocheting and just daily vlogs from some of my favorite you-tubers. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I especially love cooking vlogs and meal plans.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">One of my favorite You-Tubers is a lady by the name of Shelby. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Her You Tube channel is called <span style="color: red;">"The Queen's Cabinet"</span>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">She lives in Cooperstown, NY and she and her husband are building an amazing property around their home that when finished will be complete with an apple orchard, a trout pond and a huge garden for the kitchen. I cannot wait for them to post pictures when it is all done.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Here is one of the recipes she cooked recently, it looked and sounded so delicious, I'm definitely going to try it soon, maybe you would like to try it too, and Yes I think it will make a wonderful <span style="color: purple;">Fall</span> dinner for your table.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Here you go, enjoy!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: purple; font-size: large;"><b>Creamy Pesto Chicken</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients:</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1 Tablespoon Olive Oil</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">10 Skinless Chicken Thighs</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Salt and Pepper to taste</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">2 Tablespoons Chopped Sun Dried Tomatoes in Oil</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">3 Tablespoons Pesto</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">2 cups Heavy Cream</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">5 Ounces Baby Spinach</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">12 Ounces cooked Penne Pasta</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Parmesan Cheese for Garnish</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Directions:</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Saute chicken thighs in oil until cooked through.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Season with salt and pepper.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Add Sun Dried Tomatoes, pesto, heavy cream and spinach and simmer for 20 minutes.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Remove Chicken Thighs and stir cooked pasta in to cream sauce.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Serve to individual plates and top with 2 chicken thighs per portion,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Sprinkle with Parmesan Cheese.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">*Note Shelby recommends using bone in Chicken thighs for the extra flavor, however I do not like meat on the bone, so I will be trying this recipe with boneless, skinless thighs.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">That's it, a recipe that appears pretty easy and sounds amazing.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I hope you will give this recipe a try and while you're at it check out Shelby's You Tube channel "The Queen's Cabinet", I </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">promise</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> you won't be sorry, it's filled with so many yummy recipes, menu ideas and her charming spirit.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Thank you so much for stopping by today, I hope you'll chime in here and tell me what you love about Fall, I'd love to know.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I appreciate you, have a wonderful day.</span></span></div>
nfabandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14602209788560333463noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5160980399899904656.post-8558202511265948602018-07-18T11:20:00.001-07:002018-07-18T11:20:08.211-07:00Pineapple Mango Salsa "Dump" Chicken (A Crockpot Recipe)<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; text-align: start; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><b>Summer for me means "easy" kitchen cooking.</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-size: 14px; text-align: start; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"> I hate to heat up the house and end up not wanting to eat because we're all too warm.</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-size: 14px; text-align: start; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"> Turning on the oven is a big NO-NO.</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-size: 14px; text-align: start; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Eating out every day is expensive so we try to find things that can be done simply at home.</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-size: 14px; text-align: start; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">The Crockpot or the Instant Pot Pressure Cooker is the way to go.</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-size: 14px; text-align: start; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">What "easy" recipes do you make for during the summer to lighten things up and cool things down? </span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; text-align: start; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">Pineapple Mango Salsa "Dump" Chicken</span><span style="color: #111111; font-size: 14px;"> </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-size: 14px; text-align: start; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">A Crockpot Recipe
3 Large chicken breasts
1/2 cup of Salsa
3 Tbsp. of Franks Red Hot Wing Sauce
1 cup brown sugar
1 20 oz can pineapple chunks drained
2 cups diced mango (this can be canned and drained)
15 0z black beans drained
15 0z sweet corn
4 oz green chilies
1 Tbsp. of garlic powder
1 Tsp onion powder
1 Tsp smoked paprika
1 Tsp salt
Dump all ingredients into a crockpot and Cook 6-7 on low or 4 hours on high.</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; text-align: start;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><span style="color: #111111;"><span style="font-size: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;">*Note: This is a good "freeze ahead" meal, dump all the ingredients in a bag prior to cooking and freeze it until you are ready to enjoy, then dump in your crockpot and you will be good to go.</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; text-align: start;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><span style="color: #111111;"><span style="font-size: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Serving Suggestions: Delicious served over brown rice with heated tortillas on the side.</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; text-align: start;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><span style="color: #111111;"><span style="font-size: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;">*Note this recipe is not my own, it was shared on Pinterest and by Kiera on a You Tube channel that I watch and enjoy.</span></span></span></span></div>
nfabandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14602209788560333463noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5160980399899904656.post-9798413504991835622018-06-20T12:55:00.003-07:002018-06-20T21:31:46.397-07:00Randomness ...<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>Just a List</b></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikxBDFEGHUSh_xeKumypapuGVqDPNSdCVk2wjcAidP0ZfRGomyOAHc5mnl9godE88cRaedvypLkjO-44SYf0-jxEKGgxT7iSJtDJK9CraTxccal4KYleh8d5FLKb-Fs9vbxAdi8dDWCqk/s1600/peonies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikxBDFEGHUSh_xeKumypapuGVqDPNSdCVk2wjcAidP0ZfRGomyOAHc5mnl9godE88cRaedvypLkjO-44SYf0-jxEKGgxT7iSJtDJK9CraTxccal4KYleh8d5FLKb-Fs9vbxAdi8dDWCqk/s400/peonies.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Some days you have a lot on your mind.</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Some days you have nothing on your mind.</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Some days it's easy to remember everything.</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Some days you need a list to remember anything.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #741b47; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Here's a list of random thoughts for me.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>1. The world it is changing.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>2. My daughter just turned 29 years old, how did that happen.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>3. People can and will lie when it is advantageous to their cause.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>4. I love the ocean and the calm I feel around it.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>5. Two dogs, one big and one small are a ton of work.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>6. I love those two dogs and would hate if i had to give them up.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>7. My taste buds have changed.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>8. I seem to be enjoying plain food lately.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>9. I am a spiritual person, but not a religious person.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>10. Politics - they are tearing friends and families apart.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>11. Sometimes I wish horrible things on the current President of the United States.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>12. I don't like wine.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>13. I love my husband.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>14. Family, sometimes it's a love/hate relationship.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>15. I believe Heaven is a real place and that many people will never get there.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>16. I love the Lularoe Perfect T shirts.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>17. Some of my best friends live in my computer and we've never met.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>18. Money does not buy happiness.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>19. Pizza yum ... but only thin crust.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>20. It seems no one has time for anyone else anymore.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>21. When did we all become so self centered and self absorbed.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>22. I miss the East Coast.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>23. I enjoy California but hope not to live here forever.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>24. Exercise, I need to do more of it.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>25. I hate Diabetes </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>26. Why can't we find a cure for Alzheimer's Disease.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>27. Peonies are my favorite flower.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>28. I don't care for hard ice-cream but I love soft serve in a cone.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>29. I wish I could travel more.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>30. Do things that make you happy.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>31. Don't worry about what others do to make themselves happy.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>32. Try and pay my debt down.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>33. Help other people when they need it and don't ask questions.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>34. Drink more water.</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>35. Laugh whenever and wherever you feel like laughing.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>36. Make and eat more salads for meals, we love them.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>37. Remember, you cannot fix every wrong in the world, but just one small good deed can lead to so many others that might fix one thing at a time. </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>38. NO one is Perfect, including me.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>39. Take Naps, they're a good thing.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>40. Have a good cry every once in awhile.</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>41. Try to blog more often even if no one reads it.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>42. Hugs and Kisses </b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>That's it for now ... random stuff.</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Ever changing.</b></span></div>
nfabandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14602209788560333463noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5160980399899904656.post-48977084291302494752018-01-24T11:43:00.002-08:002018-01-24T12:13:52.561-08:00Whole 30 Chicken Verde<div style="color: #1d2129; letter-spacing: -0.11999999731779099px; margin-bottom: 6px;">
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On my hunt for recipes that will help me on my journey towards lowering my sugar (diabetic problems) I have found this recipe, it looks yummy. I borrowed it from "The Nourishing Home" page, there is a link below, check out the website listed at the bottom of the recipe.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Ingredients:</span></div>
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1 medium yellow onion</div>
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2.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs</div>
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1 1/2 tsp sea salt</div>
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1 tsp garlic powder</div>
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1/2 tsp paprika</div>
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1/4 tsp cumin</div>
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1 (12oz) jar Whole30-compliant Salsa Verde (see recipe note)</div>
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1 large red bell pepper</div>
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1 large yellow pepper</div>
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Instructions:</div>
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<div style="font-family: 'SF Optimized', system-ui, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, '.SFNSText-Regular', sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 6px; text-align: start;">
<span class="_5mfr _47e3" style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 0; margin: 0px 1px; vertical-align: middle;"><img alt="" class="img" height="16" role="presentation" src="https://static.xx.fbcdn.net/images/emoji.php/v9/fee/1/16/1f336.png" style="border: 0px; vertical-align: -3px;" width="16" /><span class="_7oe" style="display: inline-block; font-family: inherit; font-size: 0px; width: 0px;">🌶</span></span>Cut the ends off of the onion and remove skin. Then slice into 4-5 thick slices. Place in the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker.</div>
<div style="font-family: 'SF Optimized', system-ui, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, '.SFNSText-Regular', sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 6px; text-align: start;">
<span class="_5mfr _47e3" style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 0; margin: 0px 1px; vertical-align: middle;"><img alt="" class="img" height="16" role="presentation" src="https://static.xx.fbcdn.net/images/emoji.php/v9/fee/1/16/1f336.png" style="border: 0px; vertical-align: -3px;" width="16" /><span class="_7oe" style="display: inline-block; font-family: inherit; font-size: 0px; width: 0px;">🌶</span></span>Place the chicken thighs on top of the onion. In a small bowl, combine the seasonings and evenly distribute across the top of the chicken.</div>
<div style="font-family: 'SF Optimized', system-ui, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, '.SFNSText-Regular', sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 6px; text-align: start;">
<span class="_5mfr _47e3" style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 0; margin: 0px 1px; vertical-align: middle;"><img alt="" class="img" height="16" role="presentation" src="https://static.xx.fbcdn.net/images/emoji.php/v9/fee/1/16/1f336.png" style="border: 0px; vertical-align: -3px;" width="16" /><span class="_7oe" style="display: inline-block; font-family: inherit; font-size: 0px; width: 0px;">🌶</span></span>Evenly spoon the Salsa Verde over the top of the seasoned chicken. (Trader Joe's and Whole Foods both have Whole30-compliant brands, be sure to read labels.)</div>
<div style="font-family: 'SF Optimized', system-ui, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, '.SFNSText-Regular', sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 6px; text-align: start;">
<span class="_5mfr _47e3" style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 0; margin: 0px 1px; vertical-align: middle;"><img alt="" class="img" height="16" role="presentation" src="https://static.xx.fbcdn.net/images/emoji.php/v9/fee/1/16/1f336.png" style="border: 0px; vertical-align: -3px;" width="16" /><span class="_7oe" style="display: inline-block; font-family: inherit; font-size: 0px; width: 0px;">🌶</span></span>Slice the bell peppers into thick slices; discard the seeds and stem. You can either - place them over the salsa and cook with the chicken for very soft peppers that meld into the sauce, or add the peppers during the last hour of cook time to enjoy them al dente (as shown in photo).</div>
<div style="font-family: 'SF Optimized', system-ui, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, '.SFNSText-Regular', sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 6px; text-align: start;">
<span class="_5mfr _47e3" style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 0; margin: 0px 1px; vertical-align: middle;"><img alt="" class="img" height="16" role="presentation" src="https://static.xx.fbcdn.net/images/emoji.php/v9/fee/1/16/1f336.png" style="border: 0px; vertical-align: -3px;" width="16" /><span class="_7oe" style="display: inline-block; font-family: inherit; font-size: 0px; width: 0px;">🌶</span></span>Cover and cook on low 5-6 hours, until chicken is fork tender. When chicken is done, use a slotted spoon to transfer the salsa-covered chicken and peppers to a large platter. Move the peppers to the side. Use two forks to shred the chicken.</div>
<div style="display: inline; font-family: 'SF Optimized', system-ui, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, '.SFNSText-Regular', sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin-top: 6px; text-align: start;">
<span class="_5mfr _47e3" style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 0; margin: 0px 1px; vertical-align: middle;"><img alt="" class="img" height="16" role="presentation" src="https://static.xx.fbcdn.net/images/emoji.php/v9/fee/1/16/1f336.png" style="border: 0px; vertical-align: -3px;" width="16" /><span class="_7oe" style="display: inline-block; font-family: inherit; font-size: 0px; width: 0px;">🌶</span></span>Serve on large Bibb lettuce leaves. Top with diced tomatoes, avocado, and fresh cilantro. So delicious!<br />...............</div>
<span style="font-size: 14px;">For more delicious whole foodie fun, visit </span><a data-ft="{"tn":"-U"}" data-lynx-mode="origin" data-lynx-uri="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2FTheNourishingHome.com%2F&h=ATN8N5BT-yqhnm1VGJ_GqgZXhAwbkS95poZcGStJNaEn20USoGNSo2VHcpspAfVkm1q4asAXxjRlPcNprffJdUYFVJ5zvKPAB50jU3KQ9KV8k7U_jMpPMWLn3wTCe3QybR5wRfDgtDwRMxzrf24SeRDQsR7IrlOu6zlGw2KfPOfvY2Gq78wrLA98q-RCYQLWBl960eLTMg3jiJ-BkIW78qC6YR6gma4rUhPJgv9Xn0P1AwY_2MMFAKZhE3kna3SgS9VrPGPQ_jd_R0G-zXbH3NB0wcjACJHXVZ63veQqMVlE1bMLWQYKmzeP0tsinwtWd64" href="http://thenourishinghome.com/" rel="nofollow" style="color: #365899; cursor: pointer; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">TheNourishingHome.com</a></div>
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nfabandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14602209788560333463noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5160980399899904656.post-61713732599333778712018-01-22T19:59:00.005-08:002018-01-22T20:01:00.467-08:00Creamy Tuscan Chicken<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: large;">Disclaimer: This is not my own recipe.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"> I found it on my Facebook Feed and thought I would share it here. I have yet to make it ... but I will, very soon. In an effort to eat healthier I think this will satisfy everyone at our house with some huge servings of veggies on the side. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: large;"><b>Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Makes 3 servings</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Per serving</span></div>
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1 fat</div>
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3 condiments</div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">• 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">• 1 Tablespoon olive oil </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">• 1 cup low fat plain greek yogurt </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">• 1/2 cup chicken broth </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">• 1/4 cup parmesan cheese </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">• 1 cup spinach, chopped </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">• 3 slices sun dried tomatoes</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">In a large skillet add olive oil and cook the chicken on medium high heat for 3-5 minutes on each side or until brown on each side and cooked until no longer pink in center. Remove chicken and set aside on a plate. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Add the yogurt, chicken broth, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and parmesan cheese. Whisk over medium high heat until it starts to thicken. Add the spinach and sundried tomatoes and let it simmer until the spinach starts to wilt. Add the chicken back to the pan and serve over zucchini noodles if desired.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b>Doesn't this recipe sound delicious, not get over to that kitchen and give it a try, I suspect we will not be disappointed when we sit down to eat with this on our plate.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b>Yummy in your tummy!</b></span></div>
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nfabandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14602209788560333463noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5160980399899904656.post-53009522888282210382018-01-08T17:50:00.000-08:002018-01-08T17:59:51.252-08:00Thanks For The Memories Mom<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; letter-spacing: -0.11999999731779099px;">Memories are a sweet thing, and for me "food memories" are some of the best. I love creating recipes that I remember so fondly from my childhood. Mom was a cook of the times, much like other women who worked on limited budgets, dinner could be pretty mundane and plain. Meatloaf, hotdogs and beans, pot roast, roasted chicken, spaghetti and meatballs, jello salad, date bars ... everyone had their own recipes for the same foods. My mother however always looked for ways to ch</span><span class="text_exposed_show" style="color: #1d2129; display: inline; letter-spacing: -0.11999999731779099px;">ange things a bit, especially after we moved to California, fresh vegetables instead of the canned versions began to cross our plates, and salads seemed to be at every meal. My favorites were always the homestyle stuff, her Italian sauce with spicy hot sausage was one I always looked forward to after it cooked slowly all day on the back of the stove, unfortunately I've never made one to rival hers though my sister Debi knew moms secrets and always made a good sauce. Meatloaf was never a favorite of mine because mom always tried to sneak veggies in that I didn't like, green peppers and onions ... eventually though I would eat it and actually loved leftover meatloaf sandwiches in my lunchbox the next day. Pot Roast with carrots, onions and browned potatoes was always amazing and again leftovers on white bread with yellow mustard always made me smile. Stuffed Cabbage with her twist of cooking in beef broth instead of tomato sauce was a family favorite, it seemed there was never enough for leftovers because we couldn't get enough. Swiss Steak her way (again no tomato sauce), beef and cauliflower, and a French favorite for breakfast, Corton (a homemade potted meat spread) that we so enjoyed spread on warm toast in the morning. I miss my mom, and I miss her cooking, thankfully I was observant enough to learn many of these recipes so I could share them with my own family. This morning I taught my daughter <a class="profileLink" data-hovercard-prefer-more-content-show="1" data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/user.php?id=543075282&extragetparams=%7B%22fref%22%3A%22mentions%22%7D" href="https://www.facebook.com/morgan.cyr.5?fref=mentions" style="color: #365899; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;">Morgan</a> to make "mom's" stuffed cabbage, it was a great way to share something very special that I just know my mom would be thrilled about if she was still here with us. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span class="text_exposed_show" style="color: #1d2129; display: inline; letter-spacing: -0.11999999731779099px;">Thanks for the memories mom.</span></span></div>
nfabandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14602209788560333463noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5160980399899904656.post-1054884716402095062017-11-05T18:59:00.001-08:002017-11-05T18:59:19.281-08:00DIABETES (Type 2) And All That Jazz<div style="text-align: center;">
Well for years I've had type 2 diabetes.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
For years I've kept in under control with medication.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It was so well under control they lowered my medications.</div>
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Then ...</div>
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Anxiety moved in to my life.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Mostly because of some things I could not control.</div>
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Well ... I went for blood work last Wednesday and went about my business.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I planned on calling to see my doctor for results and meds.</div>
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My phone rang Thursday morning at 8:30 in the morning ...</div>
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it wasn't great news.</div>
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My blood sugars were over 500 ...</div>
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way too high.</div>
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They wanted to see me right away.</div>
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My choices were immediate switch to Insulin along with pills.</div>
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or</div>
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See a Nutritionist ... I'll be calling tomorrow for an appointment.</div>
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Off Metformin on to a stronger, new to me medication</div>
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and</div>
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a change to my carb heavy diet with the addition of exercise.</div>
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Well ... I don't want Insulin unless there is no other choice.</div>
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So begins a very difficult phase in my life.</div>
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Right now I'm hungry all the time.</div>
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I want bread for breakfast, not chicken.</div>
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It won't be easy ...</div>
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It's quite depressing for me especially in the mornings.</div>
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I'll keep trying though ...</div>
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because really what other options are there.</div>
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<br /></div>
nfabandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14602209788560333463noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5160980399899904656.post-55904325740987266422017-10-25T23:54:00.000-07:002017-10-26T00:13:09.776-07:00Meal Delivery Companies ... what do you think?<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>Hello Fresh vs. Chef'd</b></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFjCLnv0wxOgTDuQS1fdzbcLZAL5u0xPlOGsBqfO3K1LZv1UygFRpwEGcPC7JQiJk7j5BosG-_THhNNN6bK92XSB8OT3HKdPjzjiOExG-qkCa69wjKmPm5jMLjgKwF1EIixzfM6roBX1I/s1600/IMG_5143-EFFECTS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFjCLnv0wxOgTDuQS1fdzbcLZAL5u0xPlOGsBqfO3K1LZv1UygFRpwEGcPC7JQiJk7j5BosG-_THhNNN6bK92XSB8OT3HKdPjzjiOExG-qkCa69wjKmPm5jMLjgKwF1EIixzfM6roBX1I/s320/IMG_5143-EFFECTS.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>It's Expensive to Eat out in California!!!</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: medium;">So last year I tried out a meal delivery service, it was called Chef'd. I enjoyed it because I was not locked in to trying 3 meals each and every week, and I was able to pick my meals from an extensive list of about 100 choices, though I wasn't totally pleased with the quality of the ingredients, I did like that the prices varied based on the recipe. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: medium;">We tried a few different meals and enjoyed all but one of them and that wasn't because the meal tasted bad, it was because it came with chicken thighs which I hate. LOL</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: medium;">So in an effort put a bit more variety in to our meal planning (it seems I just can't plan a meal with new items that I love anymore my own), I have joined another meal plan company, Hello Fresh!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: medium;">I am only doing the meals for 2 people x 3 meals per week (it's usually just Pat and I for dinner), with the option to change some of the meal choices I may not want to options we might prefer. The choices are much more limited each week and I have the option to "opt out" for certain weeks. I have also decided at this point to only do meals two weeks every month, opting out the other weeks unless we find that we need more. The price is very good for a main course for two, it's a little shy of $10 per person, or about $20 per meal (I will add in salads or other veggies that we may like from our own grocery shopping). </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: medium;">We went out for Italian food last night and it cost us with tip about $75 for 3 people, no dessert, no appetizers, no alcohol ... that's a lot of money.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: medium;">With Hello Fresh for 3 meals a week, it will be less than the price of one night out, and for our first week I had a code so I only paid $29 for 3 meals (yay). </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: medium;">Now, I'm not saying I won't be eating out anymore, but we really enjoy eating in and relaxing, it's cheaper and the food is usually better. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: medium;">My first 3 meals will arrive on the 30th, I can't wait to give them a try and the choices I made sound delicious. Does anyone else have experience with this particular company?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: medium;">If you do, I'd love to hear about it.</span><br />
<br /></div>
nfabandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14602209788560333463noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5160980399899904656.post-76488987152915538872017-09-11T17:51:00.001-07:002017-09-11T18:03:08.615-07:00Random Stuff<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1. Maybe I should start a "Random Stuff Bullet Journal".</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2. I don't like the taste of most food anymore unless it's cold or tart.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">3. Anything too Savory turns my stomach.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">4. I crave my mom's Italian Spaghetti and Sausage.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">5. I am always HOT ... like boiling from the inside out.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">6. Having two dogs to contend with in a small Condominium is a lot.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">7. Fall is my favorite season of all ... but not in California.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">8. I am a Card Maker.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">9. I sell Stampin' Up products and truly believe they are the best on the market.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">10. I have been married now for one year to Patrick Gilmore.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">11. I complain a lot, but I am truly thankful for everything that is good in my life.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">12. I'm not sure what I believe anymore in the way of Religion.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">13. I used to love to cook, but not so much anymore.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">14. I need to have my eyes checked and get new glasses.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">15. I am a bit of a procrastinator.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">16. I am VERY Liberal.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">17. I am not as patient as I used to be when I was younger.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">18. Soup ... I love it just about any time of the year.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">19. I have never traveled to Europe.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">20. I prefer thin crust to a thick crust pizza any day.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">21. I don't wear yellow gold at all.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">22. I am not a "hugger" or a "kisser" with strangers, I prefer not to be touched.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">23. I love to read and prefer historical romances.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">24. My favorite TV show is probably Outlander.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">25. I never went to a "real prom".</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">26. I hate surprise parties, as I do not like to be the center of attention.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">27. I have never been in a wedding party, ever.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">28. I love a good steamed Hotdog with mustard, relish and raw onion.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">29. I'm allergic to shellfish.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">30. I have one daughter but I've had two pregnancies.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">31. I love to play board games.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">32. I love to watch You Tube.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">33. I've never seen "Gone with the Wind" in it's entirety.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">34. Growing up I enjoyed watching "Ma and Pa Kettle" movies on Sunday's.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">35. I was born on the East Coast.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">36. There is nothing like Bell's Seasoning for Turkey Dressing.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">37. I feel at peace watching the ocean waves.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">38. I don't like birds .. and I don't ever want to hold one.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">39. I prefer Ices to Ice Cream, Rita's Italian Ice is a favorite.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">40. My dad died when I was 11 years old.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">41. My mom died from complications of Alzheimer's Disease.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">42. I worry that I will die from Alzheimer's Disease.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">43. I want to be cremated, not buried.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">44. I've been married 3 times in my life.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">45. I've been divorced only once.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">46. I love the snow.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">47. Maine is my favorite state.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">48. I hate driving especially in California.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">49. I am diabetic.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">50. I am the 3rd of 3 children in my family.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Just random stuff about me, now you know me better.</span></div>
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nfabandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14602209788560333463noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5160980399899904656.post-30415444198188811802017-01-23T23:53:00.001-08:002017-01-23T23:53:19.840-08:00Friends<div style="text-align: center;">
Just a question for all my Blogger peeps.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Have you ever had an amazing friendship, a best friend/friendship, that suddenly ended?</div>
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I did this past year.</div>
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The person I used to call my best friend suddenly was no longer my friend.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I suspect that we were so politically different during this election year she simply decided we no longer had enough in common to keep the friendship going.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We came together as friends through Scrapbooking online years ago.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
She lived in another state so becoming friends wasn't easy,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
but we were on a design team together and after a girls weekend in LBI, NJ we both went home feeling like we had been the best of friends our whole life.</div>
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We visited one another and knew each others families.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We called each other often and shared secrets.</div>
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She was the first person I called when my mom was dying, and the 2nd person I called when my husband passed away.</div>
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She was my person.</div>
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Then suddenly it all stopped.</div>
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It's the oddest feeling, knowing that the person you thought would be your oldest and dearest friend simply was no longer on your radar. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
She stopped responding on Facebook then one day I found she had limited my view of her page.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It felt weird, and though I knew it was all because of politics,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I had trouble believing that she would simply just stop all connection with me.</div>
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I told her long ago that it wouldn't offend me if she chose not to read or respond to some of the things I posted and I would simply do the same for her, I guess she just couldn't get there.</div>
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I mean ... isn't it possible to be friends with someone that you have differences of opinions with.</div>
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It felt like a death in the family.</div>
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I know that things and people change in life.</div>
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Friends and acquaintances come and go and sometimes change because we change.</div>
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It's still weird to me though that I know we'll never talk again.</div>
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I did feel kind of watched though, especially knowing she could have full access to my page though I was limited on hers, so one morning recently I went ahead and unfriended her, her husband and her kids. I guess I felt like the friendship needed to go both ways or no way at all.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So that was it ... gone and they no longer have any access to view my page.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I wish her well ...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I hold no anger towards her.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I understand.</div>
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<br /></div>
nfabandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14602209788560333463noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5160980399899904656.post-88953078830894008252017-01-23T23:26:00.000-08:002017-01-23T23:28:44.798-08:00The Times They are a Changin' ...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmWpKNRt94SLbYnqLLbfPthVxoz3uUiJS-hLdkmeSA5QvsYnt48EZ7y-IT6Gxc505gQs1jZMEOlqGq9pRdylEF6i41NYYXNxqL38svcrR_fNkQy3RxZP7x8y6J-QyNTYBQFnbnqLEHZO0/s1600/peonies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmWpKNRt94SLbYnqLLbfPthVxoz3uUiJS-hLdkmeSA5QvsYnt48EZ7y-IT6Gxc505gQs1jZMEOlqGq9pRdylEF6i41NYYXNxqL38svcrR_fNkQy3RxZP7x8y6J-QyNTYBQFnbnqLEHZO0/s320/peonies.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">2017</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
A New Year.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My first New Year married to Patrick Gilmore.</div>
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I never would have dreamt that after moving away from California so many years ago that my path would ever cross Patrick's path again in my lifetime, but as we know things change.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I had a crush on Patrick from the first time I met him, back in 1970.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
He was my first date ever ... and it was the best date.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We doubled with Randy Jones and his girl at the time.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Pat borrowed a Camaro from a friend to take us out in style.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We drove to the Queen Mary thinking we were having dinner at a French restaurant on board, and while we girls waited on board for the boys to check in for our reservation they came out with frowns on their faces and told us the restaurant had messed up our reservations and we couldn't eat there.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So off we went, starving of course to find some other place to eat.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Driving down PCH Patrick stopped on the side of Bolsa Chica Beach,</div>
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he asked me to go out and grab a map out of the trunk for him, because he knew where he wanted to take us, but wasn't sure what road to take.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I thought for sure something was up so Randy got out with me ...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
and when we opened the trunk there was a picnic basket.</div>
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The boys had planned all along to start a fire in a fire pit at the beach to grill us dinner.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We had steak, salad and dessert which I believe was Smores.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We also celebrated with Martinelli's sparking grape drink,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
we were only 16 and 17 years old, and Mormon.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Pat was a gentlemen all night, </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
we walked down the beach and talked, </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
it was dreamy.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
When he brought me home I never got a good night kiss, we were both too shy.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I joke now that I had to wait 33 years for that kiss,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
but it was worth it.</div>
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<br /></div>
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We've moved away from Long Beach and are currently living in South Coast Metro.</div>
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It's a small 2 bedroom condo, but I love it, it's just the perfect size for us.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I never want a big house again, they're way too much work.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Morgan is living with us right now as is my sister,</div>
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it's tight, tempers flare sometimes, but we're making do.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Pat and I hope to save some money and be able to buy a place of our own eventually.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The only sad news I have is that we no longer have our amazing President Barack Obama.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I knew it was coming ... I had hoped that his replacement would be Hillary Clinton,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
but that was not to be.</div>
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We've turned the clocks back 100 years and the biggest clown ever got voted in, Donald Trump.</div>
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He's a horrible person.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I won't go any further talking about him here other than to say, let's hope that we figure out the error of our ways and vote the idiot out in 4 years, and we'll pray that he doesn't get us all killed in the meantime.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Hoping that the New Year will get better, it started off with both Patrick and I sick with colds and flu, and we hope that our friends and family all find love, hope and prosperity in the days to come.</div>
nfabandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14602209788560333463noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5160980399899904656.post-43093213336009402272016-12-01T17:04:00.002-08:002016-12-02T01:04:33.982-08:00Some Days Are Sad ...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht87-FsliytFvcaSCdoy0-DSIPUMwXAYU6pY9tT8naQ6yKNt0DJaRe0m6guFFqoZk3NXqcbeQtdgtgdDYq7hflviZULB-QwhE7VK5bP-djM7BSluuVTKEcjTQGb71XpQamie2Nof7ckcE/s1600/405375_10150484716505283_577660888_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht87-FsliytFvcaSCdoy0-DSIPUMwXAYU6pY9tT8naQ6yKNt0DJaRe0m6guFFqoZk3NXqcbeQtdgtgdDYq7hflviZULB-QwhE7VK5bP-djM7BSluuVTKEcjTQGb71XpQamie2Nof7ckcE/s400/405375_10150484716505283_577660888_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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Yup,</div>
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Some days are sad!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Today after 15-1/2 years we said our final Goodbyes to our pup Raisin.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Morgan, Patrick and I are heart broken!</div>
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She was a good dog!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We got her from a breeder in Georgia because Morgan had a Dachshund named Winnie that ended up staying with my mom when Morgan and I married Brian.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
She was sad and missed her dog, and even though Brian had Gwillem it wasn't the same.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Morgan needed her own dog.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Enter Rum Raisin Cream Pie or Raisin for short.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
She was a beautiful cream colored dog with rum colored heart shapes on her back.</div>
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She was quiet once she got to know you, but she would bark and bark until she felt comfortable.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Raisin never learned any real tricks, but gosh she could give paws like no other dog.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
She didn't sit, but she begged a lot (that was untrained of course), she loved human food.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
She loved to roll in the grass on a warm sunny day, and after we moved to California she liked to lay on the hot cement patio.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
She was the best dog for our family.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We will miss her so very much and I cannot even imagine not having her greet us at the door.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I know she's with lots of good dogs in Heaven and people who love her greeted her there,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
but our hearts will be missing her for the rest of our lives.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We loved you Raisin and we hope that we made you as happy as you made us.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We will think of you often and smile.<br />
One this is for sure our precious girl, you have left little tiny paw prints all over our hearts.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
💔💔</div>
<span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span>nfabandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14602209788560333463noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5160980399899904656.post-51480383064577233112016-08-15T16:52:00.000-07:002016-08-15T20:00:48.529-07:00As The World Turns ...<div style="text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKYawqdcxAgdaYVk6FqRzvLgIfrHSyqx-yAh5rlT9a9tRMIn3ZdeQuQlB5VFn0qnS8m4jqSawfgb39fXRE3k-Bcb9DDPMQYPp9pqxXzZLY6QvZu1lgKolN4bSsbkhqYvAukk6wgF7B/s1600/mommy2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="396" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKYawqdcxAgdaYVk6FqRzvLgIfrHSyqx-yAh5rlT9a9tRMIn3ZdeQuQlB5VFn0qnS8m4jqSawfgb39fXRE3k-Bcb9DDPMQYPp9pqxXzZLY6QvZu1lgKolN4bSsbkhqYvAukk6wgF7B/s400/mommy2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>As The World Turns ...</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>My mom used to watch soap opera's every day, Monday through Friday.</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>While we kids were at school, she would rush in the morning to get all her house work done,</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>so that she could sit down at noon and watch her soaps. </i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>She watched As the World Turns, and the Guiding Light.</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>Mom knew those characters like the back of her hand,</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i> she knew their names, and who was dating who,</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i> who was having babies, who was cheating and who had died.</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>The funny thing is, she always had time to get the house cleaned,</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i> and we always had a delicious breakfast, lunch and dinner. </i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>The reason I bring this up is because I swear try as I might, </i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>I am really bad at getting everything done like she did. </i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>Now don't get me wrong, I'm a clean person, but I don't think I'm as particular as my mom was.</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>I felt very accomplished today when I was able to get my sheets washed, dried and back on the bed before noon.</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>I also made a fresh homemade blueberry cobbler, and it smells delicious.</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>Then feeling another short burst of energy I decided to use up some of the fresh veggies and I threw together a homemade, from scratch, no recipe at all, chicken tortilla soup.</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i> It came together nicely with chicken breast, fire roasted tomatoes, sweet maui onion, yellow and orange bell peppers, a fresh serrano chili, fresh corn cut off the cob, fresh lime juice, corn tortillas, and a can of black beans.</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i> It will be topped with cilantro, tortilla chips and grated cheddar jack.</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>For me ... that's a lot in one morning.</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>Now I'm perusing You Tube and checking out some video's for hand stamping greeting cards.</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>That's one of my favorite past times, no soap operas for me, just give me some ink and paper and I'm a happy girl.</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>I truly never thought I would craft again after Brian died, in fact I gave away all of my crafting supplies.</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>Now here I am totally in love with stamping.</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>I have accumulated a nice little collection of stamping supplies,</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i> and though I don't do it every day, it is becoming a favorite hobby.</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>I always thought I'd grow up and be just like my mama.</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>I'm not ... but I strive to do things like her.</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>I love cooking ... and I believe I have picked up much of her way of cooking.</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>I think I'm a good mom just as she was, she'd be proud of me.</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>Crafting was not her thing, though she could sew a bit and crochet.</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>To me my mom was perfect,</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>a perfect wife to my dad,</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>a perfect mom to her 3 daughters ...</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>a spectacular memere to her grand kids,</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>and as the world turns,</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>she proved that you can do just about anything,</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>if you have a bit of energy to just get started.</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>Thanks for all the lessons you taught me without even planning on it mom.</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>I miss you!</i></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 153px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 0.85; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 18px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 153px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 0.85; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 18px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><br />
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Delicious Broccoli Salad</div>
<div class="ERSIngredientsHeader ERSHeading" style="clear: none; color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 1.4em; font-weight: 700; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;">
*This is not my recipe and I do not take any credit for it, I found it while browsing Pinterest and thought I would share it here, you can find this recipe at momontimeout.com along with many more amazing recipes.</div>
<div class="ERSIngredientsHeader ERSHeading" style="clear: none; color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 1.4em; font-weight: 700; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;">
Ingredients</div>
<ul style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; orphans: auto; padding: 0px; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">
<li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="background-position: 0px 0px; line-height: inherit; list-style: disc inside; margin: 0px 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;">1 cup light mayonnaise</li>
<li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="background-position: 0px 0px; line-height: inherit; list-style: disc inside; margin: 0px 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;">⅓ cup sugar</li>
<li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="background-position: 0px 0px; line-height: inherit; list-style: disc inside; margin: 0px 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;">2 tbsp red wine vinegar</li>
<li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="background-position: 0px 0px; line-height: inherit; list-style: disc inside; margin: 0px 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;">1 tsp celery seed</li>
<li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="background-position: 0px 0px; line-height: inherit; list-style: disc inside; margin: 0px 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;">2 heads of broccoli broken down into small florets</li>
<li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="background-position: 0px 0px; line-height: inherit; list-style: disc inside; margin: 0px 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;">¾ lb bacon, cooked and chopped into small pieces</li>
<li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="background-position: 0px 0px; line-height: inherit; list-style: disc inside; margin: 0px 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;">½ cup toasted slivered almonds</li>
<li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="background-position: 0px 0px; line-height: inherit; list-style: disc inside; margin: 0px 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;">2 green onions, thinly sliced</li>
<li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="background-position: 0px 0px; line-height: inherit; list-style: disc inside; margin: 0px 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;">1 cup chopped celery</li>
<li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="background-position: 0px 0px; line-height: inherit; list-style: disc inside; margin: 0px 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;">1½ cups red seedless grapes, halved</li>
</ul>
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<br /></div>
<div>
<div class="ERSInstructionsHeader ERSHeading" style="clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 1.4em; font-weight: 700; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;">
Instructions</div>
<ol style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">
<li class="instruction" itemprop="recipeInstructions" style="background-position: 0px 0px; line-height: inherit; list-style: decimal; margin: 0px 0px 0px 30px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;">Whisk together mayonnaise, sugar, red wine vinegar, and celery seed in a small bowl. Place in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.</li>
<li class="instruction" itemprop="recipeInstructions" style="background-position: 0px 0px; line-height: inherit; list-style: decimal; margin: 0px 0px 0px 30px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;">Combine broccoli, bacon, toasted almonds, green onions, celery and grapes in a large serving dish.</li>
<li class="instruction" itemprop="recipeInstructions" style="background-position: 0px 0px; line-height: inherit; list-style: decimal; margin: 0px 0px 0px 30px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;">(To toast almonds, place on a large baking sheet and bake at 350F for 3-5 minutes stirring in between. Do not walk away! They will burn easily. The almonds are toasted when they turn light brown.)</li>
<li class="instruction" itemprop="recipeInstructions" style="background-position: 0px 0px; line-height: inherit; list-style: decimal; margin: 0px 0px 0px 30px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;">Toss the dressing with the rest of the salad ingredients and stir.</li>
<li class="instruction" itemprop="recipeInstructions" style="background-position: 0px 0px; line-height: inherit; list-style: decimal; margin: 0px 0px 0px 30px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;">Dressing can be added at the last minute if desired.</li>
</ol>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: "verdana" , "arial" , "geneva" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px;"><br /></span></span></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: "verdana" , "arial" , "geneva" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px;">I don't know about you, but I never seem to get enough veggies in to my diet, so when I come across recipes like this I save them and try them out. This one sounds so good, I can't wait to give it a try, I think my family is going to love this one.</span></span></div>
nfabandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14602209788560333463noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5160980399899904656.post-58361180989596334942016-01-13T20:21:00.001-08:002016-01-13T20:25:51.728-08:00It's a New Year and a New Day!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFVOlbZdYFdneWb6pFG0oik3qrvVHCpI7W4As58lRmCWF1KkRJTy1z8TBB5hCKxGaTDGNdhGqH5iNPV7etUBlNAHo1soaQqY4W-zbMy7QVY8l4SjSqvXlMq_wxkMp3vUyEhzbmuRLpVQE/s1600/IMG_6621.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFVOlbZdYFdneWb6pFG0oik3qrvVHCpI7W4As58lRmCWF1KkRJTy1z8TBB5hCKxGaTDGNdhGqH5iNPV7etUBlNAHo1soaQqY4W-zbMy7QVY8l4SjSqvXlMq_wxkMp3vUyEhzbmuRLpVQE/s400/IMG_6621.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">2016</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It's here finally, not that I was rushing it, I wasn't, </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">but it seemed like I was waiting for it from the start of 2015.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Time has flown by for me since I've been back in California.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">That can be good, and that can be bad, but truly I think it is what we make of it,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">only time will tell what is to come.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'm trying harder to be a more "positive" person, </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I've been a half glass empty kind of girl for a very long time.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Patrick and I closed out 2015 by attending a New Years Eve dinner at Malarkey's.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">While waiting for our dinners to be served,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Patrick expressed his love for me and asked me if I would marry him.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I of course said "Yes".</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We'd been talking about marriage for awhile now and had planned on tying the knot</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">in December, but things kept getting in our way,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">first it was the clean out of Pat's moms house as we were under time constraints</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">due to the sale of the house.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Then when we thought we were all set to just get married, no fuss, no frills,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">just us and our kids, another set back with the guy who was going to marry us.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Things happen you know, so here we are with a marriage license</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">that must be used within 90 days or we start at the beginning again.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We think we'll do it soon, we hope to anyway.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So keep your fingers crossed for us that we'll decide on a day</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">and everyone who wants to be there will find a way to work it in to their schedule.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Marriage, we've waited a long time for this, technically since we were little kids.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Yup, we've known each other since we met at church in 1970.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I had a crush on him from that day forward, Patrick was in fact my first date.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I moved to Connecticut within months of our date and we both led our own lives</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">for the next 33 years.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Time and circumstances brought us back together</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">and here we are ready to start where we left off.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Patrick has been working a lot lately, for that we are grateful.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Morgan is teaching in an after school program that she very much enjoys.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">She has her own classroom and her own class of kids,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">she's hoping to get back to school for her masters eventually,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">until then she will be studying to take her CSET tests so that she can apply to be a full time teacher.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">She is also substitute teaching and hopes to get more of that in before summer.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Me on the other hand, well I have not yet found work.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It's so hard when you have been out of the work world for 15 almost 16 years.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I never really realized that by staying home with my daughter and just being a mom</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">was actually handicapping me for the future. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It seems I no longer have the skills that used to be so helpful and handy for the type of work I desired.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I don't know what I'll end up doing,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">but do something I must.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Once again … wish me luck.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So many things to come, hopefully new adventures,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">new friends, new travels and new experiences to write about.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Chances are there will be losses,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">there will be surprises,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">there will be disappointments,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">and there will be many reasons to smile and laugh.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I wish you all a wonderful New Year,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">may it bring you all your hearts desires.</span></div>
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nfabandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14602209788560333463noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5160980399899904656.post-5197291274239853782015-09-17T10:06:00.000-07:002015-09-17T10:21:29.337-07:00Stick of Butter Rice … Say What!!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg98K2c1rG8NcjoeA6I_L8986aBG-akdh0b_qOSN1ZPrJkB_62bhhXcyEAoN2mMWDxOwxgVlh6RbLMYeWMn9u4rEvvcxQx51oPIf-K7ovflhRxO7gEuaXHbS9a9sh1KlsWtT8ImxteI/s1600/cartoon_the_jetsons_elroy.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg98K2c1rG8NcjoeA6I_L8986aBG-akdh0b_qOSN1ZPrJkB_62bhhXcyEAoN2mMWDxOwxgVlh6RbLMYeWMn9u4rEvvcxQx51oPIf-K7ovflhRxO7gEuaXHbS9a9sh1KlsWtT8ImxteI/s200/cartoon_the_jetsons_elroy.gif" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Elroy licking his chops thinking about Stick of Butter Rice!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Oh you heard me …. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I said "Stick of Butter Rice".</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Yum</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I don't usually share recipes here especially when they are not mine to start with,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
but I'm going to break that rule today,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
because</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
everyone needs a super fattening, super decadent and super yummy side dish.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I have made this dish 3 times,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
my girl and my guy love it so much, I've had to double the recipe</div>
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so that we have enough for our meal.</div>
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They actually ask for this rice frequently, but keeping our health in mind I don't make it</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
frequently, </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
no way,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
it has to be a treat, something you think about and crave,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
and when you finally get it you savor it.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Today I'm making it for a friend,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I've added 2 sautéed hot italian turkey sausage out of the casing,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I wouldn't usually but for this gift it's meant to be their dinner.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Anyway, without further ado, here is the recipe, I found it on Pinterest attached to someone else's blog, her name is Mique and here is a link.<br />
<span style="color: #555555; font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: 1.2em;"> </span></span>http://www.thirtyhandmadedays.com/2014/01/stick-of-butter-rice/ .</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Here you go!</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="item b-b" style="border-bottom-style: none !important; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 25px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<div class="b-b h-1 strong" id="zlrecipe-title" itemprop="name" style="border-bottom-style: none !important; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: raleway, sans-serif !important; font-size: 23px; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: 1.3em; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 0.5em; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="color: #38761d;">Stick of Butter Rice</span></div>
</div>
<div class="zlmeta zlclear" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; clear: both; color: #555555; font-family: 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 0.85em; font-weight: bold; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<div class="fl-l width-50" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; float: left; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; width: 287.5px;">
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<div class="fl-l width-50" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; float: left; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; width: 287.5px;">
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<div class="zlclear" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; clear: both; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
</div>
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<div class="h-4 strong" id="zlrecipe-ingredients" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #555555; font-family: raleway, sans-serif !important; font-size: 1.25em; line-height: 1.2em; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;">
Ingredients</div>
<ul id="zlrecipe-ingredients-list" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #555555; font-family: 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.5em; margin: 1em; padding: 0px 0px 0px 2.4em; vertical-align: baseline;">
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-0" itemprop="ingredients" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: disc; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;">1 c. uncooked white rice (NOT instant) <img alt="" border="0" src="http://stats.ziprecipes.net/piwik.php?idsite=1&rec=1" height="1" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; height: 1px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; max-width: 100%; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; width: 1px;" width="1" /></li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-1" itemprop="ingredients" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: disc; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;">1 (10 oz) can of Condensed French Onion Soup</li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-2" itemprop="ingredients" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: disc; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;">1 (10 oz) can of Beef Broth</li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-3" itemprop="ingredients" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: disc; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;">1/2 c. of butter, sliced </li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-4" itemprop="ingredients" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: disc; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;"></li>
</ul>
<div class="h-4 strong" id="zlrecipe-instructions" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #555555; font-family: raleway, sans-serif !important; font-size: 1.25em; line-height: 1.2em; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;">
Directions</div>
<ul class="instructions" id="zlrecipe-instructions-list" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #555555; font-family: 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.5em; margin: 1em; padding: 0px 0px 0px 2.4em; vertical-align: baseline;">
<li class="instruction" id="zlrecipe-instruction-0" itemprop="recipeInstructions" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: disc; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;">Preheat oven to 425 degrees. </li>
<li class="instruction" id="zlrecipe-instruction-1" itemprop="recipeInstructions" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: disc; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;">In a 9x9 inch baking dish combine rice, soup and broth. </li>
<li class="instruction" id="zlrecipe-instruction-2" itemprop="recipeInstructions" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: disc; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;">Cut butter into slices and place on top of the mixture.</li>
<li class="instruction" id="zlrecipe-instruction-3" itemprop="recipeInstructions" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: disc; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;">Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.</li>
<li class="instruction" id="zlrecipe-instruction-4" itemprop="recipeInstructions" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: disc; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;">Remove cover and bake 30 minutes more.</li>
</ul>
<div class="h-4 strong" id="zlrecipe-notes" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #555555; font-family: raleway, sans-serif !important; font-size: 1.25em; line-height: 1.2em; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
</div>
<div id="zlrecipe-notes-list" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 10px; padding: 0px 10px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<div class="notes" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="color: #555555; font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: 1.2em;">You can add to this recipe, ground cooked beef, mushrooms, or maybe some roasted butternut squash squares, just be creative. My mom always told me when you take a recipe from someone, change it just a bit to make it your own, I've followed her directive ever since.</span></span><span style="color: #555555; font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: 1.2em;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #555555; font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: 1.2em;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #555555; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: 1.2em;">Can you even imagine how delicious that would be? So go ahead, give it a try, oh and one other trick, feel free to cut the butter amount in half, it will still be delicious. </span></div>
<div class="notes" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #555555; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: 1.2em; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;">
Say What!!!</div>
<div class="notes" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #555555; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: 1.2em; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;">
Thanks for stopping by today!</div>
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nfabandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14602209788560333463noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5160980399899904656.post-31493721939111264772015-09-04T00:32:00.002-07:002015-09-04T00:32:47.240-07:00DREAMS OF SOUP ...<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs8NrlDSCppKuP4YCKQxmahUdvnQcvT_sXZ__jzhcU_Cy37EUOVUDFfV_hFvSvt_zPgtExrTEBkc3oqlIFJ_YyqLMk2vg8uEaxLjUeCOL4VmZM0pPXWrInLFEfJxuLVaYWSdsS3y9mZUM/s1600/IMG_4342.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs8NrlDSCppKuP4YCKQxmahUdvnQcvT_sXZ__jzhcU_Cy37EUOVUDFfV_hFvSvt_zPgtExrTEBkc3oqlIFJ_YyqLMk2vg8uEaxLjUeCOL4VmZM0pPXWrInLFEfJxuLVaYWSdsS3y9mZUM/s320/IMG_4342.jpg" width="313" /></a></td></tr>
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I lived for 33 years in the Northeast, Connecticut to be exact. We had 4 separate seasons, my favorite was Fall for it's warm days and cool nights, the smell of dew on the grass and wet leaves early in the morning, shorter days, warmer clothing, apple festivals and fairs, pumpkins, hot cocoa and soup. Some of my best memories of being a young girl at home with my mom and family were of the soups she would throw together with "cheap ingredients". Nothing was better then playing outside all day and coming in when the street lights went on to find soup bowls on the table. She made soup out of leftovers rather than have them go to waste, money was carefully spent to assure that we had what we needed without excess. Soups of every kind, ham and cabbage soup thick with carrots, onions and a salty ham broth was a favorite of mine. Chicken noodle soup made with all the meat we didn't eat, for me that was the brown meat, but in a soup I loved it, carrots, celery, and noodles with lots of black pepper, we all loved it, sometimes there were even homemade drop biscuits on the side. My favorite soup to come out of moms kitchen however was "Hamburger Soup". I've heard it called poor mans soup, and even a few times depression soup, perhaps because it was made during the depression using just a bit of ground meat and lots of cheap "rice, pasta or potatoes". My mom always made her soup with a beef broth thickened with crushed canned tomatoes, sautéed ground beef with salt and pepper, onion, carrots, celery and frozen corn were always there along with elbow macaroni. Mom always served that hot steaming soup with crusty french bread and butter on the side, I loved dipping it in to my soup and having some butter melt in to the soup with every dunk. Every family has there own version or recipe for this traditional classic using their own list of ingredients and each person probably has their own memories of enjoying it at the dinner table. I've been thinking a lot about that Hamburger Soup lately, I think it's my mom coming through and reminding me of my roots, reminding me to keep the things I love close to me and enjoy them whenever the need arises. I may not live in Connecticut any longer and the seasons in California don't change like they did back East, but my taste for those Fall comfort foods will never leave me. I can assure you that Hamburger Soup is on my mind and will be on my menu this week. I'd share a recipe with you if I had one, but I do not, I work from tasty memories and know that whatever I pull from that pot when it is finished will bring me right back to my family dinner table … because I have strong memories and dreams of soup!</div>
nfabandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14602209788560333463noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5160980399899904656.post-71058527028337956542015-07-04T19:46:00.001-07:002015-07-04T19:46:18.517-07:00What is that feeling anyway???<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj16jVthl9iLhyphenhyphenKRK2KXW5Xrzq2MrDiIk4yEEoQv-eCpWZhRBNgVPzAtI9xM0pIRf_Jc_lmar-JUAdi_yAJHcAiazuIYfdSNWHjjaH34rLf2poGDT6RBCdC67k67-Ig0_snZysdUJFfQ-k/s1600/IMG_0021.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj16jVthl9iLhyphenhyphenKRK2KXW5Xrzq2MrDiIk4yEEoQv-eCpWZhRBNgVPzAtI9xM0pIRf_Jc_lmar-JUAdi_yAJHcAiazuIYfdSNWHjjaH34rLf2poGDT6RBCdC67k67-Ig0_snZysdUJFfQ-k/s320/IMG_0021.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">It's a terrible feeling.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">You know that feeling when something is wrong, but you don't know what!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">When everything people say sounds like a loud buzz in your ears.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">When you just can't find the goodness, or the positive side, or the light.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">What is this feeling anyway? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">They say you can be surrounded by a million people and still it feels like there is no one.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">When the people you are supposed to be able to laugh with, share with, and talk to,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">are the ones you feel so distant from.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Why can't we tell people the truth, </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">when they say "how are you today", </span><span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"> why do we just say fine.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Maybe we aren't fine, maybe we need to scream, I can't breathe, I'm sad and I don't know why.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Nope, we just say "fine".</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">You know that feeling where you just want to cry and everything that everyone says to you makes you weep.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">But you weep Quietly,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">In the shower, you weep, while you are driving, you weep, after everyone is asleep, you weep … the warm, salty tears roll down your cheeks.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Wanting to talk and having no one you feel you can talk to, even your closest friend seems wrong.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">It's a terrible place to be, when you want to run away for a bit, and have no idea where to run away to.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">It's a terrible place to be!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Sadness!</span><br />
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nfabandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14602209788560333463noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5160980399899904656.post-32768130196434228292015-04-23T09:48:00.004-07:002015-04-23T12:39:03.875-07:00TIME … it just continues to fly by!<div style="text-align: center;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-F2sbeSWNpHYe8G_kph8n6md_3GDukUlZf7FNsQbB5ibtZo6SvhyOhhWycz7psL1ZoMJg6hz8KY5bqcIM0yI-cYX9NbdHJ9miFLd6nite2oDNgTmgBV-_51r5ic0uU1QO6NCRhODW86M/s1600/IMG_5971.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-F2sbeSWNpHYe8G_kph8n6md_3GDukUlZf7FNsQbB5ibtZo6SvhyOhhWycz7psL1ZoMJg6hz8KY5bqcIM0yI-cYX9NbdHJ9miFLd6nite2oDNgTmgBV-_51r5ic0uU1QO6NCRhODW86M/s1600/IMG_5971.jpg" height="204" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunset on Seal Beach</td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">When I was a little girl growing up I could never wait for tomorrow.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">It seemed like the hours went by so slowly, especially when I was waiting.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I couldn't wait for summer to come and school to be over,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I couldn't wait for summer to end and school to start.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I couldn't wait for Friday so I could play all weekend with my friends,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">and I couldn't wait for the weened to be over so I could go back to school with my friends.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I couldn't wait to be a little older so I could have more freedom,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">and once I had that freedom and realized it came with responsibility</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I wished I was young again and had no worries.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I couldn't wait for the ice-cream truck to come by at night, it seemed I waited for the tune from his truck all day long.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I couldn't wait for so many things,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">especially to grow up and not have to answer to anyone.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Fast Forward … and I do mean fast up to today.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Here I am, all grown up and gosh don't I sometimes wish I could go back to being a child again.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">My mom always said, "don't rush time, it goes fast enough". </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Wow, was she ever right.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">She was pretty much right about everything, </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">though I never would have told her that way back when.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">She was a smart cookie, and brave too, she had it all together even though life tried so hard to knock her down on a daily basis.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Looking back,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I wish now I could go back to moments in my life and enjoy them all over again.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Enjoy the people who were such a big part of making me who I am.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I'd spend more time talking to my mom while she hung clothes on the line in our backyard.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I'd sit and crack more Brazil nuts for my dad and listen to his boyhood stories.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I'd walk down the boardwalk in Wildwood one last time with Brian.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I'd spend more time enjoying the little things in life,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">because I know now how quickly life goes,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">and</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">how short life really is in the grand scheme of things.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">In memory of:</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">My dad, Charles Henry who has been gone for almost 41 years.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">My mom, Pauline Therese who has been gone for almost 8 years.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">My husband, Brian Fielding who has been gone for 3 years.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
******************</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">What we once enjoyed and deeply loved</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">we can never lose</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">for all that we love deeply</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">becomes a part of us.</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">-Helen Keller-</span></b></div>
nfabandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14602209788560333463noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5160980399899904656.post-13806742018685826972015-01-02T10:34:00.000-08:002015-01-02T10:35:49.339-08:00Welcome 2015<div style="text-align: center;">
It's a New Year<br />
It's a New Day</div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
How did that happen, where did 2014 go so quickly?</div>
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It seems like just yesterday we were celebrating our move to California,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Learning to live as a new blended family.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Closing Probate finally after 2 years.</div>
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Adjusting …</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Adjusting …</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Adjusting …</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsveLoD6ZK72oeCLxOiw17AGGB35HEl03v4S37zaufE98hk69RyUkapK03bX4w3bbFLDW4WUtCDCRgJy3d1SEtd8FZxMdUUCamUYGiCPhIk6zvQwYo5_053222O1L4yFTAaZOCjrsoS3Q/s1600/IMG_5772.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsveLoD6ZK72oeCLxOiw17AGGB35HEl03v4S37zaufE98hk69RyUkapK03bX4w3bbFLDW4WUtCDCRgJy3d1SEtd8FZxMdUUCamUYGiCPhIk6zvQwYo5_053222O1L4yFTAaZOCjrsoS3Q/s1600/IMG_5772.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
That's really what life is all about I think.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Adjusting.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
There is always something new, something different, something changing that requires us to stop and think about how we will adjust to the changes in our lives.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I believe that each morning when we wake up,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
life gives us a new chance to start over,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
to make new and better choices,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
to rewrite our story,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
and to</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
make changes</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
and adjust.</div>
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Yesterday is already history,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
tomorrow is definitely a mystery, </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
but today is yours to create.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Don't waste your chance to make the changes you need to make.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Don't pass up the chance to be a part of changing the world you live in.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Tomorrow is not promised to anyone,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
do it now,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
lose the weight,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
try something new,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
take a trip,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
tell someone you love them,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
just do it.</div>
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Happy New Year to all my family and friends.</div>
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May you realize all your dreams in 2015.</div>
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Love you all,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
always.</div>
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nfabandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14602209788560333463noreply@blogger.com1