.:Autumn Afternoons:.

Despite the temp's reaching back into the 70's and even 80's this week... {bleh} We are enjoying a beautiful autumn. Oh how I love it! Neighbors trees have dropped golden leaves in our yard, I was gifted two beautiful RED mums for my front step, and we picked up our first pumpkin! The colors, the smells, the feel of it all never fails to capture my attention.

It's a laid back Saturday here in Iowa and I've been able to really focus in on enjoying my family and our home. These no-where-to-go Saturdays are small treasures to me. Piddling around in the kitchen, making crafts with the kids, extra baby snuggles - it's all wonderful and most days we are so busy it's easy to miss those moments. Even now as my two youngest sleep it's calm and sunny and watching the trees sway and lose their leaves is perfect! Of course the mug of hot cider was a bonus as well :)

Autumn really is the most wonderful time of the year!

Tonight we'll have some Creamy chicken wild rice soup - my first attempt. It's been simmering away in the crock pot since early this morning and the house smells heavenly. I'm sharing the recipe today because it's SUPER easy, pretty inexpensive to make and I'm hoping will be a crowd pleaser as my kids love rice, chicken and veggies.

What you'll need:

1 c. uncooked wild rice (I'm using aldi's rice blends - red, white, basmati and wild)

1lb boneless, skinless chicken breast

1 c chopped onions

3/4 c chopped celery

3/4 c chopped carrots

4-5 cloves minced garlic

2 bay leaves

6 c low sodium chicken broth

2 c water

2 T poultry seasoning** (keep reading down below)

3 T butter

2 T olive oil

1/2 c flour

2 c milk

salt & pepper to taste

 

You aren't supposed to peek, but I can't help it!

Before I include the link to the instructions let me touch on the seasonings. This summer I found this gem in the grocery store and have been using it for so many things. It's awesome in soups, on burgers, ground turkey, etc. So instead of buying poultry seasoning I'm using it. Cavenders! It's salt free, too! 

I found this soup recipe on Little Spice Jar's site. It's super cute and she has some great things there! Go check it out here. Her food photography alone will have you drooling :)

As we get deeper into the autumn season our schedules are full. This year we let our oldest take part in the one day cheer clinic our local high school offers. She practiced one day after school and then the next week she and her little cheer friends performed at the football game. It was cute. My hubby was out of town so it was just me and my three little girls - which, was insane. But we survived and have some cute memories to boot.

These girls are such a gift. Some days they really drive me bonkers but then we have precious new mercies the next day. I'm so thankful for all three of them!

Happy Saturday friends! I hope you have a good one, a calm one, full of warm soup and family and all the wonderful things that make this season so special.

My grandma's soup mugs passed down to me :)

That's Bananas!

If you aren't from 'round here you may not know that the entire state of Iowa is in a panic as we endure this ARCTIC VORTEX that's hovering over the midwest. We had a high of -34 (windchill) yesterday, so today's 11 feels almost balmy. And all the Minnesota-ians are rolling their eyes, Ha!

I'm kind of a cold weather gal, myself, and don't mind the cozy days "stuck" at home. Recently I almost wonder if I'm becoming some kind of introvert... then I remember I'm really not. I just adore being home, always have, probably always will. So, yesterday I fired up the oven and set to work on making all things delicous with the mound of blackening bananas I had acquired. It was a win-win really. Win because the warm oven lended to a warmer home, and another win because YAY banana brownies, banana bread and (today) cinnamon swirl banana bread. Plus, triple win...smells amazing. I'm thrilled with how each item is turning out, especially the bread - I shouldn't be surprised as it's Martha's recipe :) Today I'm sharing links with you so you can try it yourself.

First up, banana brownies. These are great for you choco-banana lovers like me :)

I love that they were simple and it's a smaller recipe (think 8x8 pan) so I'm not tempted to eat an entire 9x13. Hey, it's happened. You can find the link to this recipe here. You won't be disappointed! 

Then there's THE ultimate over all banana breads in my opinion. Martha's. :) 

It has a semi-crusty outside and amazing, soft and chewy inside. I don't how that's possible, but I love eating it. It has sour cream in it which can be subbed in with greek yogurt or something I'm sure. It took about an hour and some minutes to bake but was well worth the wait! This gal featured it on her blog and it was a happy find for me. Find the recipe here. 

Today I'm working on this beauty...cinnamon swirl banana bread. what?! And yes I am really that excited and yes it appears my appetite has resurfaced. :) 

"Lovin' from the Oven" is where you'll find this jewel. Anything with a cinnamon-ey topping like this is a gold star in my book :) Click here to drool... I mean, find it. 

And last on this banana's day (hehe) I feature my afternoon snack. It's simple, yummy, and quick. It's really another one of those win-win-win things I'm all about right now. And, it uses up even more of the banana mound. PLUS, it was featured in Fitness magazine, so....there. Check it here. 

I think I'm down to 5 or 6 bananas left over now (oy!). What do you make with your going-bad bananas? Any tips or tricks? Have a great day and praise the Lord for our warm homes and yummy treats! 

December Menu Planning

Is anyone else enjoying these 15 degree days we've been having around good ol' Iowa? :) I know, I know... probably not. The snow fell and we have a beautiful coating of white just in time to celebrate Christmas #1 with my parents who are driving in from Ohio this weekend. It's the little things like that.

I've been lousy at menu planning lately. Considering that nothing sounds good and we've had lots of little meals here and there for different events, it's been ok. But, it's my goal for the remainder of the month to get something yummy and somewhat healthy on the table through the 23rd. But the ultimate goal is COMFORT and togetherness type meals. (baby steps) Instead of my normal routine of picking a cook book and working my way through - I'm using Pinterest to cook up all those things I've pinned and have yet to try. I'm sharing my plan with you today, and would love to hear what kinds of good things you have planned for your fam this month. I'll put up a few pics of the items for the rest of week one, then the rest will simply be a link to the recipe in case you'd like to give it a go! But, all can be found online.

12 - Loaded Baked Potato & Chicken Casserole

13- Black bean & corn chili with cornbread

14 - Out to eat with my parents :)
15 - Tuscan Garlic chicken over linguine

16 - 5 year old birthday for my girl, her choice!
17 - Ham and Cheese pinwheels
18 - "South" Dish
19 - Lasagna Soup
20 - Pizza Roll Up's
21 - Chicken Broccoli Casserole
22 - Chili Jack Casserole
23 - BBQ Chicken Quinoa Salad


Well, that does it for my list through the 23rd. I'm eager to bless and WOW my family with some yummy dinner time meals, especially since our dinner hour hasn't been much lately. December menu planning made easy with the use of lovely technology and the brains of many women sharing their recipes - how great is that!?

Fall Ya'll.

 

It's official, because I just purchased this "Autumn Walk" candle. I absolutely cannot WAIT to start burning this baby in our new place.  (Sigh) Autumn... welcome back.

Speaking of the new place, we are down to 4 days until we move in! I had my heart set on moving in this weekend, but it looks like Monday afternoon is the big day. We got to stop over yesterday and meet the family that is moving out - a leetle awkward, but overall, they were very friendly and I think it helped them to see who was getting their place. Their little boy joked that he didn't want us to paint "His room" pink with ballerinas. I made no promises. ;)

Last week I checked out another great cookbook from the local library, "Amish Friends Cookbook, Vol. 2" by Wanda Brunstetter. 

 

Oh yum. I've been on this Amish mode and just really enjoy the simplicity and comforting taste of all their recipes. This week we tried the recipe for Goulash, which was fantastic and tonight I'm making this one below, so I thought I'd share a recipe. :) It's a very fallish type meal, even though it will be in the 80's today. 

Chickenetti

6oz spaghetti, cooked

2 c chicken, cooked and diced

1 can cream of mushroom soup (I'm using cream o' potato)

2 c corn

1/2 c chicken broth

1/8 t celery salt

1 t salt

1/4 t pepper

3/4lb velveeta, shredded

Preheat oven to 300 degrees. Mix all ingredients and put in a casserole dish. Bake covered 1 hour. 

*I really, REALLY, want to get away from the cream of whatever soups... it's my mission to whip up a batch of the healthy stuff once we move and settle. 

Seriously, does it get easier??! This will be perfect for our busy Thursday night. :) Apparently, this is a big favorite in the Duggar family, too. While I was searching for a good and delicious looking picture to share - all I could find was sweet little Josie sitting by the recipe. If it's good enough for the Duggars... it's good enough for me! 

Happy early weekend! Maybe the next time I blog will be from our new house?!

Cooking Thursday: In my Kitchen

Welcome! I'm linking up with Sandra today and sharing some recipe ideas for this Thursday day. :) Here is the view I've had most of the day so far, my kitchen. Hopefully you are enjoying a calm and quiet part of your day - I am! My littles are napping, a cake is baking, and it's rainy, dark, and gloomy outside. {This cup of French roast is helping the relaxation, too.} I really do love working in my kitchen and making delicious things to bless my family with. What a joy and honor to be the homemaker! Today everything is made from scratch and I have loved getting my hands messy in the carrot shreds, etc. Praise the Lord for this job! 

Thurday nights are pretty special around our home, as it's really like a Friday night to us. My husband has Fridays off and we use that day for family activities or just catching up on rest. It's glorious and such a blessing to work somewhere where time off is given and understood! Thursday nights I try to make a bigger meal - something everyone enjoys and maybe even a dessert. I usually cook every night, but Thursday I aim to make crowd pleasers... maybe avoid my preferred broccoli or veggie soups. Hey, I do have two small girls and a non-veggie loving hubby. I can handle it. :) 

Tonight we are having Ham Balls, Springtime potato salad and for dessert... Mango Carrot cake! Yum. Here are some recipes to share.

Ham Balls:

1 lb ground pork

1 lb ground fully cooked ham

2 eggs

3/4 c milk

2/3 c crushed shredded wheat cereal

1 1/2 c packed brown sugar

2/3 c water

1/3 c vinegar

3/4 t ground mustard

1) In a bowl, combine pork, ham, eggs, milk and cereal; mix well. Shape into 2in. balls; place in a greased 9x13 baking dish.

2) In a saucepan, combine brown sugar, water, vinegar and mustard. Bring to a boil over medium heat; simmer, uncovered, for 4 mins. Pour over the ham balls. Bake, uncovered, at 350 for 60-70 minutes or until browned. 

--->Bonus: used some ham chunks I had in the freezer, put it through my meat grinder - voila! Ground ham! 

Springtime Potato Salad:

3 c diced, peeled, cooked potatoes

2 hard boiled eggs

1/4 c chopped celery

1/4 c chopped sweet pickles OR sweet relish

2 T fine chop onion

3 T fine chop or sliced radishes

1/4 c mayo

1 1/2 T sugar

1/2 T vinegar

1/2 T milk

1 t prepared mustard

pinch salt

dash paprika 

1) In a bowl, combine potatoes, eggs, celery, pickles, onion and radishes. In another bowl, combine mayo, sugar, vinegar, milk, mustard, and salt. Mix well. Pour over potatoes; stir to coat. Cover and chill, sprinkle with paprika before serving. 

(this was doubled in my cookbook - so the measurements may seem odd here... I guessed in my head on a few things)

{picture courtesy of BHG.com}

And, as far as dessert goes - Better Homes and Gardens had a great spread in this months magazine on using fruit juices in foods. You can find the Mango Carrot cake, HERE. :) Mine is cooling now and making our home smell just wonderful! 

Happy cooking Thursday! 

Chapters, faces, thoughts and Spaghetti.

How's that for a subject?! :) Yikes. Brave you for even daring to read on...

CHAPTERS:
Have you ever read something that strikes you right to the core? I have these moments from time to time and had one here recently while finishing the book, "The Furious Longing of God" by Brennan Manning. In lieu of  watching tv after dinner last night - I planted myself in the over sized chair in the corner of the living room, turned on the Nook and read. {Gasp!} The norm unwinding activity in our home... is not always that. At least, for me. I just like to turn the ol' gray matter OFF for awhile. But, as I continue to read and stick with my goal of a book a month - er... so... I'm finding how much I'm enjoying the learning. There is something to learn in every book. Of course that sounds elementary, but, you know what I mean. Plus, hubs had brewed a pot of coffee and nothing goes better with hot coffee then an oversized chair, good book, and an afghan blanket. :)

In this book, the chapter titled "fire" - I was gripped over this paragraph:

"Jesus Christ has irreparably changed the world. When preached purely, His word exalts, frightens, shocks, and forces us to reassess our whole life. The gospel breaks our train of thought, shatters our comfortable piety, and cracks open our capsule truths. The flashing spirit of Jesus Christ breaks new paths everywhere. His sentences stand like quivering swords of flame because He did not come to bring peace, but a revolution. The gospel is not a children's fairy tale, but rather a cutting-edge, rolling-thunder, convulsive earthquake in the world of the human spirit."

Man. That's MY God! While it sounds like I'm nuts... I'm so thankful for the cracks over the head I've taken here recently that have allowed mending...from the Holy Spirit. New growth and newfound truth. Jesus, He changed the world... and we can't NO WAY fall back into what we have been saved from. What a great reminder! 

FACES:

Our church, as seems to be the usual and wonderful... has welcomed in multiple baby faces in the last few weeks. 4 in one week, actually! It really is amazing to be a part of a church that is growing leaps and bounds, literally. One particular little gal, we'll call her "E" just takes my breath away. :) She is so tiny and delicate. Born at 4 pounds she really is HALF of what I'm used to giving birth to. So so sweet. It would be a lie to say holding this peanut I was totally capable of ignoring my baby itch... ;) The whole time I was holding "E" my girls {who look ginormous in comparison...} were going nuts. Augs kept holding out her hands and saying, "hold it, hold it". New faces. New blessings. 

THOUGHTS:

Speaking of blessings. These two - 4 and almost 2... how rich they make our lives. It is a never ending learning process. 

Recently, I find them playing like this. Snapped this pic for the 10 minutes it was happening. Busy playing and pretending separately but together :) I'm learning I can't force sisters, but can encourage their relationship. I long for the day when I hear them giggling together in play, dressed up in silly clothes, or pretending to be mommies. I never had a sister so I have NO clue what's in store here. I'm eager. 

August turns two in May and how that always kinda burns me on the inside, when a baby grows up. She is still so small and needs me so much. I'm thankful for that. We still rock and sing before bed and she still quite regularly finds her way smooshed in between daddy and I in the early morning hours - snug as a bug... content. I can't stop kissing her smooshy face and noticing every detail. She's precious and sweet and loves her momma. And my Ava, so smart at 4 years old. She challenges me at every turn and honestly I forget to hug and kiss on her because of the fight she puts up. She needs my kisses. I need to let loose and be silly. Preschool hasn't gone as smoothly as my brain had imagined, and that wears on me. She uses the words, "I know" all the time... and I can now understand why my mom HATED that when I said it. {sorry, mom!}

Ava is also wanting to talk a lot of about Jesus, His return, heaven and all things bible. Can I be honest and tell you how my knees shake when those conversations start?! "Am I doing this right?!" always comes to mind. Counseling with teens is a million hundred times less intimidating then trying to answer solid questions for a wondering 4 year old. Wow. Momma needs to STAY in the word and ready every moment. 

Oh, Joss & Main... your emails daily, multiple times in my inbox... 

I do so enjoy the beautiful things you sell. I do not so much enjoy your prices. However, I happen to enjoy a good thrift store find - and plan on recreating this very look somewhere in my home, come Spring time. :) How cute is that!?

SPAGHETTI:

I had the opportunity yesterday to take a meal to one of our new-baby-families from church. Baby boy is about as gorgeous as they come! {continue baby itch...} I spent the entire afternoon working on some from-scratch spaghetti sauce and meatballs. Nothing says comfort to me like a big pot of hot pasta and yummy sauce. While I do hope they enjoyed it... I can say, my family DEVOURED it. {yay for making a double batch!} Here's a no fail recipe!

Sauce -

29oz tomato puree

28 oz diced tomatoes, undrained

1 c water

6 oz tomato paste

1 T brown sugar

1 T dried minced onion

1 T dried minced garlic {or granulated}

1 T dried oregano

2 t salt 

Meatballs-

1 slice bread

2 T milk

1/2 c seasoned bread crumbs

1 egg, lightly beaten

1/2 t salt

1/2 t dried oregano

1/2 t pepper

1/2 lb EACH ground beef, veal and pork {I used 1lb beef and 1/2lb bulk sausage}

2 T olive oil

3/4lb bulk italian sausage

In dutch oven, combine first 9 ingredients. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat, simmer, uncovered for 1 1/2 hours, stir occasionally. Meanwhile, place bread and milk in a large bowl; let stand 5 minutes. Add the crumbs, egg, salt, oregano and pepper. Crumble the meat over mixture; mix well. Shape into 1 1/2in balls.

Brown meatballs in oil in a large skillet. Add to sauce and simmer 20-30 minutes or til cooked through. Brown remaining sausage and add to sauce. Stir well. 

Happy Tuesday! 

Happy Homemaker Monday

First, let me just say THANK YOU to Miss Sandra for this encouraging picture above. I always love her HHM pics, but this one just really gears me up for all things sunshine and picnics! :) 

The crazy weekend is over and it's time for another week. My husband stayed home this morning and blessed my socks off. I'm so thankful for him. Our youngest woke up at 4:15am. I rocked her and laid her back down and then she woke up again at 5:30. At this point I just tucked her into bed with us...where I lie there feeling every jostle and kick to my side. Eventually dozed off only to feel the precious one poking me in the face saying "nack", which if you read yesterday...means "EAT". Hideously early morning {after staying up TOO late watching Duck Dynasty. I'm hooked.}.

Anyway, hubs let me nap on the couch while he took care of everything. He fed the first born, played with both children, brought me coffee on my couch bed later, changed diapers,  and then my fave - took them both upstairs to do crafts while I watched an hour uninterrupted "Mad Hungry" while still on the couch. He really got me today - knew exactly what I needed. I love you, B!

I haven't divulged a lot of information about what's going on in my life - but I have hinted enough. Tomorrow my mom has surgery to remove uterine cancer. Even saying that word makes me shudder. And cry. I hate it. I hate seeing it even now on my screen. I just want to think that hitting delete would not only remove it here but... in my sweet mom. Would you join me in praying? Her surgery is tomorrow at noon EST. There are still some unknowns and not being able to be there with her is horribly difficult. But, even in that- the Holy Spirits' comfort is strong on me. I so appreciate your prayers. 

But now, on to the day. Happy Monday, fellow homemakers. :) 

The Weather:::

Ya know, I haven't even set a foot outside. Let's see - out my bedroom window the sun is trying to peek out from behind lots of GRAY. 

Right now I am:::

Finishing my 2nd cup of coffee with my Bailey's Brown Butter Pecan creamer. Don't judge. ;) 

Thinking:::

Even in the midst of a crazy faith test... God is so kind. His mercies really are NEW every morning and He uses the body of Christ to meet such specific needs. Praise the Lord!

On my reading pile:::

Started "I used to be so organized" by Glynnis Whitwer this weekend. 

Charged the NOOK back up so might read through a Gooseberry Patch cookbook I got for FREE. 

On my tv::: 

We caught the last hour of "The Bible" via History channel last night. We might watch that off and on. 

Duck Dynasty - whenever I can find a new episode, or, anytime its on in the evenings. They are TOO funny. 

Favorite Blog post this week (mine or other):::

This story about a husband caught up in sin and the redeeming power of Christ in his life. Check out "Senseless" Here. 

Something fun to share:::
I'm not feeling particularly fun today. Especially with the impending surgery and the fact that I STILL have to finish our taxes. Boo to fun. {ok, kidding} But really...no fun to share. 

On the menu for this week::: (linked a few if you'd like to use them)
Monday -  Corned beef & cabbage
Tuesday - Cottage Pie
Wednesday - left over night
Thursday -  Chicken pesto Pizza
Friday - Sausage Pizza Piena
Saturday - Tortilla casserole
Sunday - Sausage scalloped potatoes

On my to do list:::

Taxes. Gag.

Start some laundry

general tidy of the downstairs

mop kitchen floor

fill out March calendar, menu plan, and day planner {but I love all three of those to do's!}

What I am sewing, crocheting, knitting or creating:::
Well, I'm working on writing up a book review for "The Hole in our Holiness". Which, is a kind of creating. :) It's taking more brain power then I thought as I'm really thinking through so much of what Kevin DeYoung had to say about holiness. So good! 

Homemaking Tips:::
Don't ever let your children play with Uno cards. 

But seriously...

the dollar tree sells some super cute plastic shoe boxes which are the perfect size to store toy sets. My girls have THREE minnie mouse sets and I can fit all three minnie's, two minnie scooters and ALL her hairbows into one box. It's tidy and they can put it away themselves. All for a buck! 

Looking around the house:::
Hubs made the bed. Man, he's good! 

My bedrooms windows need some serious attention...but I refuse until it's done snowing. 

From the camera:::

My biggest girl so enjoying her big girl class at church. With her best buddy since she was 6 months old.

On my prayer list:::
My mom, Toni. All day today and tomorrow.

Brother making life decisions.

Husband in ministry.

Wisdom in parenting.

Bible verse, Devotional:::

I'm attaching a link to my husbands message on Sunday from Acts 4. He did a great job reminding us that generosity is a commandment to believers! 

Food for the storm

There is a winter storm heading our way sometime tomorrow night and Thursday. At first I heard weather men predict upwards of 21 inches of snow... now, it has dwindled down to 8 to 10. Still snow! I love a good winter storm and I'm thinking and guessing this might be the last one for the season...right? My girls and I bundled up and braced the crazy strong winds to make an Aldi trip - we needed to stock some shelves here on the home front. We found every single thing on our list and picked up a few fun extras - a pineapple, box of brownie mix to surprise daddy, and... some REAL twizzlers! :)

My meal plan this week feels very heavy. Heavy and hearty meals - lines up perfectly with the freezing cold days ahead, I think. Tonight we are having "Sloppy Joe Supper" and I'm excited about it. It's not your normal sloppy joe - it's WAY better. At least... it smells way better as it simmers downstairs in the crock. I thought I'd share the recipe with you today. It's also SUPER cheap and easy - I think the total cost for all the ingredients was close or right under $10, and we'll have leftovers for tomorrow {my non cooking day due to ministry stuff}. So, a $5 dinner if you split it in two :)

Sloppy Joe Supper

32oz package frozen shredded hash browns, thawed

10 3/4oz can condensed cream o' cheddar soup

1/4 c egg substitute

1 t salt

1/2 t pepper

2 lbs ground beef

2 T finely chopped onion

15oz can sloppy joe sauce {we love Aldi's brand}

1) In a large bowl, combine potatoes, soup, egg substitute, salt and pepper. Spread into a lightly greased 5 quart slow cooker.
2) In a large skillet, cook beef and onion until meat is no longer pink. Drain. Stir in sloppy joe sauce. Spoon over potato mixture. Cover and cook on low for 4 to 4 1/2 hours or until heated through.

Yum! And I love that even though it does have starchy hash browns... it's not a sandwich bread meal. I get bored with sandwiches. This recipe makes 8 servings and tonight I'll serve it with some corn on the cob!

On this cold and windy day I'm so thankful for the opportunity to be home creating meals, cleaning things up, raising children and making life happen. What a great blessing it is!

"I was planning to..."

Someday I'll write a book with a title such as that. I feel like the queen of intentions. I always have these amazing dreams and ideas of things I want to do with my family, or for friends, etc. But then the days go by and somehow nothing has been done or even close, prepared for. I've been avoiding my facebook news feed for a few days because honestly what I see evokes these feelings of failure in me. And I hate it. It steals my joy and gets my focus off of the TRUE meaning of Christmas. Families working on gingerbread houses and everyone is smiling, beautifully decorated homes, children wearing normal clothes... not bathing suits, their fathers shirts, and half ripped dress up outfits. {ok, I admit I do love my big girls fashion sense lately} I see things and I think, "oh, I was planning to do that" and I look at the calendar and realize - there's no time. My goal for this Christmas was simplicity - and, the humor in that is... it has been. Completely simple. No extras. And even though that was my plan, I keep finding myself disappointed. How confusing is that? I wanted to celebrate Advent with our children - and so far we have managed to do 3 days out of the month. 3! And let's just say...the girls aren't really "into" it. We spent a morning out at the local mall to take a $1 train ride and just window shop - see the lights, etc. It was perfect...only, in my mind I kept thinking, "oh I wish this...and I wish that..." instead of being satisfied. Ah, flesh... you rotten thing.

Through all of my shortcomings and battles with my mind - the Lord remains faithful to train me and teach me. We have been showered with blessings, unexpected, and taken care of in such a huge way. Every time I start to get down or anxious, the Lord has provided. We praise our Jehovah Jireh!

This afternoon I'm planning some Christmas cookie time with my girls. To be honest I'm already dreading some of the mess, redirecting, and just those kinds of things. But, I also love watching them get so excited! I have 4 simple recipes planned - and we PLAN on sharing some with a few neighbors and taking the rest to Grammy's house this weekend. I thought I'd share the recipes in case you were looking for a few easy and yummy ones. :) They are 4 brand new ones in our home. I try to do new ones each year...because I'm nuts and like to make life more difficult for myself.  :)

Brown Sugar Shortbreads is a recipe from Better Homes & Gardens. Click here for the recipe. Here's what they should look like. They are easy roll in a ball and smash with the bottom of a pretty cup, cookies. :)

Nutmeg-Pumpkin Drops. Another BHG recipe featuring some of our favorite things... pumpkin, spices and white chocolate. Click here for the recipe. Peek at them below. {we aren't doing the pecan on top..too expensive!}

Peppermint Stick Cookies! I'm most excited about these... I think my girls will have fun with them. I found the recipe in an old Country Woman cookbook. Here's a link!  And these are SO cute...

Last but not least - Candy Bar Sugar Cookies :) Easiest, I think. You just roll them up, roll in sugar, and bake. Might let Ava take over on these. Check out the recipe HERE. 

Here's to turning at least one of my "I was planning to..." into WE DID IT! :) 

It doesn't get much better!

I'm drained. Today has been a tiring kind of day. Hubs and I stayed up late after drinking a bit too much coffee after 8pm. It was worth it - and, after a HIGHLY emotional episode of "Parenthood"... wow. I think I went to bed drained. Anyone else follow that series? We just started watching it and I cry every.single.week. Geesh!

Anyway, our second born woke up at 6am and was just a crab bucket. After about 2 hours of whining and then screaming - she pointed to her ear and said, "boo boo". So at 8:40am we were at the peds office hearing the diagnosis of another ear infection. Blech. Poor baby, poor ears. After a swing by the pharmacy we got home and crashed. Augs didn't even want lunch - just bed, as she whined over and over and over. She slept 1 hour and was back up crying. I think this ear infection is a doozy. :/ My eyes were heavy and I had very high hopes of maybe a good ol' snuggly nap on the couch with the still tired babe, but, nope. No sleeping - but lots of snuggling and relaxing. Those are precious times that I wouldn't trade for the world! Though I'm sleepy and still have a very full night ahead of me - I'll be alright. There are far worse things going on in the world then a sleepy momma.

So, apparently shoes are a big deal right now in our lives. {grin}
I shared the story of the shoes for my big girl and would you believe that just today I have another one! Only this time it's for my Augs, and, much more brief. ;)
Walked into Salvation Army on the way home to grab an Ugly sweater, of which they had none, and stumbled upon a BRAND NEW pair of black Stride Rite toddler shoes. No scrapes. No wear. No gross shoe smell. Brand new. And the best part... $1! Yep, Stride Rites, in Auggie's size for a buck. Ah, thank you Jesus!

Of course I googled how much they run normally. $47! I think we found a deal, folks! Woot. :)

Tonight we have our annual Elevate Christmas party with the teens at church. I'm praying that the Lord works in the lives of our teens, both the ones who come to church and the visitors we may have. We need the Lord to move and we trust in His plan for this group.

Last thing in this rambling post. I promise.
Yesterday I made some super yummy Cranberry Walnut bars. They are savory, rich, and so delish. Found it here and if you enjoy cranberries, walnuts or butter {grin} you MUST try them. Ta-ta for now, friends.

November Meal Plan

Before I delve into 30 days of recipes and meals... let me be honest.

I don't know everything. I'm not a spectacular cook. My frugality still needs MUCH improvement. I love fast food. No really... McD's, Wendys, Pizza - still so easy. But I also really enjoy menu planning, attempting to save as much money as possible, feeding my family WELL, blessing others with meals, learning more cooking technique, and using meal time as a ministry to my family. And yes, I know, I know... fast food is so so bad. Which is why for the month of November I'm sticking to my guns and we will eat home made for every meal. {...I haven't mentioned this to my husband, but, I just know he'll be a-ok with it.}Even on ministry nights when things are rushed and crazy - I WILL plan ahead. We WILL not be drive through queens or cave and grab another frozen pizza.{grin}But back to my honesty - sharing this with you is only to encourage. I don't have all the answers or know how. I have been asked time and again how I do my menu planning. How I can at times spend under $100 for two weeks of meals? I have! So today I'm sharing my monthly menu plan and it's sources in hopes to spur you on to try new things, see ways you can save, and use your "shopping time" in a different way once its all done, early.

First, here are some of things I do to save money and time:
-Not every casserole needs a meat. Beans or other items like bulky grains, pastas, etc. are great and MUCH cheaper.
-That said, canned meat and frozen meat are both cheaper then fresh packaged - and still have great value and taste. If you aren't familiar with canned meats and all you can imagine is SPAM... go look again. It's 2012 people, the options have changed. :)
-If veggies are going bad {or herbs} - freeze those dudes! Chop up green onions, broccoli, and sliver carrots for a ready to go stir fry mix already ready already.
-I almost always freeze leftover broth, or any liquid from a crock pot meal - unless its swimming around grease or fatty nastiness. That can be used again for soup. And, makes unique flavor combos!
-As far as actually choosing recipes and meals: I grab a cookbook or handful of my written out cards and fill in my blank wall calendar. I don't plan for Wednesdays, but do plug something else in for every other day of the week. That said...if I'm making a big soup or casserole - I pencil in "left overs" at some point during that same week. There are also nights where we'll do homemade pancakes, scrambled eggs or just whip up whatever we find in the house instead. Flexibility is key!
-I now only plan dinners. Lunches are usually leftovers or something small. Breakfast usually oatmeal, yogurt, cereal, eggs or something baked. :) Tried to plan and buy stuff for lunches...not worth it.
-I do most of my grocery shopping at Aldi. It's down the street from us and has become almost a one stop shop. Their quality has gone up, and their options have grown. Whole milk is $2.59/gallon right now!  Occasionally I still need to hit another grocery or Walmart for a few items {specific meats, seasonal items, cheeses}
-As for sides - I just make whatever I think would go well with it - or, whatever the cookbook picture shows next to it. For example, below in week 3, the turkey cutlets had pictures of potatoes and veggies next to it - easy!
-Also, swap meats. If something calls for ground beef but ground chicken would be cheaper - try it! I own a meat grinder attachment for my stand mixer and can grind just about any type of meat. Wonderful!
And now to the good stuff! Anything in a different color is a link to the recipe.

Week 1: 1st - 3rd (Random sources for these recipes, so all are linked)
-BBQ pulled pork sandwiches and chinese cabbage salad
-Chicken & potato hand pies w/ roasted Brussel Sprouts
-Raspberry balsamic glazed meatballs over noodles

Week 2: 4th-10th (most of these from here on are from Quick Cooking cookbook, 2011. Search them all on Taste of Home)
-Baked Cavatelli & salad
-Cheesburger Stuffed potatoes
-Pesto Chicken Penne Casserole {MAKES TWO - Freeze one}
-Southwest Chicken Wraps
-Taco Soup
-Cider Pork Chops

Week 3: 11th-17th {Hubs birthday week, so we will go out at least once, oops!}
-Chicken Marinara over pasta
-Salsa sloppy Joes & ranch pasta salad
-Chili Mac & pepperoni salad
-Turkey cutlets, Italian style mixed veggies & crunchy mashed potatoes

Week 4: 18th-24th {Thanksgiving week, we'll be traveling}
-Ham with green beans and rolls {already have all of this in my freezer}
-Parmesan crusted tilapia & mixed veggies
-Beef & Broccoli w/ baked pear halves {my girls think this is a HUGE treat... just pears, halved, and baked til they are oozy}

Week 5: 25th-30th
-Maple pork chops & carrots
-Bacon Cheeseburger Roll ups
-Chicken Fajitas
-Ham Carbonara
-Inside out Stuffed cabbage

And there we have it. A month of meals all planned out, linked, and ready to be made. I shop for about 2 weeks worth at a time and only buy ingredients needed. No extras! I may throw in a dessert or two later in the month and grab those ingredients separately. Otherwise, we are set to go!

I would love to hear if this helped you out or if if gave you some ideas for your own family. Have a fun time being creative and serving in your home :) If you have any questions or tips for me - I'd love to hear them!

It bit me.

The HOLIDAY bug. Got me good this morning as I was tidying up, had my yummy candle burning White Pumpkin and my Scentsy melting Oatmeal cookie... One thing led to another and I had the crazy idea of getting out my "sweets" recipe box and looking through recipes to try out for another wonderful Holiday season. For the record - that starts now. Today. Because honestly, if you don't at least start to prep and plan and enjoy by now... don't you feel like it just flew by and you missed it altogether?! No longer will I live that way. The last few years I have started celebrating in October {for Autumn, prep for T-giving, and even some trick or treat for the Ave's}and feel like the autumn months are such a joy. :) We have our pumpkins and leaf garland decorating the front porch and our lawn is a lovely yellow as the leaves continue to fall on this rainy, gray, very wonderfully fall afternoon. {love} Thank you Lord for showing me these beauties.

Back to the recipe box. Two years ago I went from having one very dependable recipe box - to needing two. You see, I had enough sweet recipes to fill it's own space. So, one box for savory meats, pastas,  side dishes, etc. and one Vera Bradley recipe box for all thing sugary, sweet. :) Wanna know what I have picked out for our cell group tomorrow night? Glazed Cinnamon apples and Pumpkin Spiced Gingersnap Truffles! And I'd love to share the recipes with you now.

Pumpkin Spiced Gingersnap Truffles

1 1/4c semisweet chocolate pieces

1/4t vanilla

3/4c gingersnap cookies chopped (about 10 cookies)

1/4c unsweetened cocoa powder

1/4t pumpkin pie spice {CRUCIAL TO USE THE REAL DEAL}

1/2c whipping cream

1/3c finely crushed gingersnaps (about 7 cookies)

1) In medium bowl combine chocolate, pie spice and vanilla. In a separate medium bowl {Micro safe} place whipping cream. Microwave cream for 70 seconds or until begins to boil. Pour cream over chocolate mix. Let stand 5 minutes then whisk until smooth. Stir in chopped gingersnaps. Cover; chill 1 1/2-2 hours or until firm but soft enough to form into balls.

2) Place crushed gingersnaps and cocoa in two separate small bowls. Using a small spoon or scoop, scoop 1T portions of truffle mix and shape into a ball. Roll in crushed gingersnaps or cocoa powder to coat. Chill additional hour or until firm. 

Glazed Cinnamon Apples

6 lg Granny Smith apples {peel, core, cut into 8 wedges}

1/2c light brown sugar

1/4t nutmeg

1T lemon juice

1/2c sugar

2T flour

1t cinnamon

6T butter, melted

1) Place apples in a slow cooker; drizzle with lemon juice.

2) Mix sugars, flour, cinnamon and nutmeg in medium bowl. Sprinkle mix over apples - stir gently to coat. Drizzle with butter.

3) Cook on low 3 hours or high 2 hours. 

*serve with ice cream, pound cake, or... my fave - cream. :) 

Have a sweet day ;)

Have you heard? And, some recipes.

Have you heard Downton is back on? Well - at least in the UK.
A few weeks ago a fellow blogger posted a link to watch Downton Abbey SEASON 3 in the UK when it aired, on the 16th. I spaced and totally forgot to plan for it... oh well, there is more to life. I'm not sure if you can watch it re-run style yet, but, thought I'd share the link in case you can. Check that out here if you are fan... and just itching to know what happens to THESE two. :) By the way, thank you Sandra at Diary of a Stay at Home Mom for the link! We love you!

And please accept my apologies for any crude or just plain gross side bar commerical things - whatever they are called - some can be inappropriate {to say the least}. I, in my limited internet abilities, don't know how to rid them. 

Have you heard of Nascafe's newest product...Memento?

Yum. I'm enjoying a Mocha Memento right now as we speak, er... type. They are instant coffee which I do turn my nose up at usually - but, for some reason I really enjoy these. They are quick, delicious, and even have the frothy yumminess you'd get from a coffee shop. :) Even my black-coffee-only-loving husband enjoys them. Ah, if I only I was paid to say all of that - but alas, I am not.

I'm ending this post with a few recipes that we've tried out recently. With this 60 degree weather this momma is aching for soups, breads and all things fallish-creamy-fatty-goodness-ish. Which, funny how "comfort foods" seem to ease all comforts minus the one on the scale... hmmmm. But, seriously, we have had some yummy things lately and I'm all about sharing!

Favorite Salisbury Steak

For the patties:

1lb ground beef {xtra lean if you can}

1/2c unseasoned bread crumbs

1/2c milk

1 egg white

1/4c fine chopped onion

1t worcestershire sauce

1/4t salt

1/4t pepper

For the gravy:

3/4c beef broth

1/4c beef broth in addition (or, dry red wine if you use it)

1T cornstarch

1/4t dried thyme

Jar mushroom {however, you know we don't even go there} 

1) In medium bowl combine all patty ingredients: mix gently. Shape into 6 oval patties, about 3/4in thick.
2) Spray skillet with nonstick spray. Heat over medium heat until hot. Add patties and cook 3 mins each side or until browned. Remove patties from skillet and drain if necessary.
3) In small bowl combine broth {and wine if used}, cornstarch and thyme; blend well. Pour into same skillet. Cook over low heat until mix boils and thickens, stir constantly. {stir in your mushrooms if used} Return patties to skillet. Cover; simmer about 15 mins or until no longer pink inside.
*I served this with mashed potatoes and corn! Good all American meal.

Beef Stew

1 1/2lb beef stew meat cut into cubes

5T flour

1t salt

1/2t pepper

1T oil

1lb small, red, potatoes, quartered

1 1/2c frozen pearl onions

1lb package fresh baby carrots 

12oz jar beef gravy

14.5oz can diced tomatoes, undrained

1/4c cold water

1) On waxed paper, sprinkle beef with 2T of the flour, salt, and pepper; toss to coat. Heat oil in a large skillet. Add coated beef; cook and stir 4-6 minutes or until browned.
2) In 4 to 6 qt. slow cooker, layer potatoes, onions and carrots. Add browned beef; sprinkle any remaining flour (from the coating step) and browned pan bits. Top with gravy and canned tomatoes.
3) Cover and cook on LOW for 8-10 hours. About 10 minutes prior to serving, blend water and remaining 3T flour until smooth. Stir into stew. Increase heat to High, cover and cook 10 mins.
*We didn't include the pearl onions because... that's a battle I just will not wage with a 3 year old. And, we totally skipped step #3b - just ate it before whipping in that extra flour. Just as good. :)
*Serve sprinkled with some sharp cheddar.

Have a wonderful Tuesday! If you, like me, are enjoying these cool temps - keep on enjoying. I hear we may hit 80 again tomorrow :/

Lunch. Breaking out of the rut. {hopefully}

I always feel like I need to set disclaimers in place when I mention secular publications. If this annoys you, I'm sorry. But, I need to do it again. I get the magazine Parenting in the mail once a month. Somehow I get it for free - because I def only paid for it ONCE when we had our first child. The subscription has never ended... going on 4 years now. :) And they know this - so, guess there is nothing I can do but receive. While I do enjoy some of the bloopers and cute articles on being a parent and new product test ideas - I do NOT agree with most of their stance on parenting, raising children, etc. They have a definite world view and it usually strays far from what the Word of God describes for us to do. {examples: discipline, leadership, role of the father/mother} I'm not going deep into that in this post. Just sayin'. :) Onward...

For the last few months I've been stuck in a rut with just what exactly to feed my 1 and 3 year old for lunch times. Dinner is varied and offers much variety, but, somehow lunch seems to keep taking the back burner. Usually quite literally with the same ol' pot of mac n' cheese simmer back there. Or, PB & J. So sick of that. I want my kids to learn to eat a variety and I want them to eat a more healthy diet, too. But how on earth do you get kids to willingly eat their veggies and grains, etc? My 3 year old loves peas and broccoli, for which I am grateful. My 1 year old won't touch anything with color on it - which, discounts EVERY veggie except the potato and even then she turns her nose up and sticks out her tongue. Lovely. So, what's a mom to do? And, I also like to pick my battles with my children - I so want meal times to be peaceful and a time of connecting not an all out war of "EAT YOUR LUNCH!!!!!" said a million times. 

Enter: Parenting, September 2012 issue. 

They had a full 3 pages of ideas on what to feed your children for lunch, snacks, etc. all written out by the day! The pairings are brilliant and I can't wait to try them starting this week! I also can't wait to enjoy them with my girl! Wondering how I never thought of these ideas? But, that's why the magazine makes the big bucks, I suppose. In case you aren't a subscriber I thought I'd share a few thing we'll be trying around here this week - so you can try them out with your kiddos, too! Bon Appetite! 

Day 1: Tortellini Kebabs

* Thread cooked tortellini, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella balls {or chunks of cheese sticks like us!} on a skewer. Dip in ranch, hummus, or nothing :) This gets in at least 3 food groups and more depending on what you use for "Dip". 

Day 2: Guac/Jack muffins

* Pile guacamole, jack cheese, tomato and sliced turkey on a toasted english muffin. 

Yum. lots of creamy texture things and some zippy tomato makes a great pair, I think! Hoping to pair this with some kind of book about "Green" food. :) To make it fun and interesting and appealing to littles. 

Day 3: Cucumber Sandwiches - updated

*Cover toasted whole wheat bagel thins with veggie cream cheese. Top with cucumber slices. 

EASY PEASY. Only, I messed up and bought bagels instead of the thin ones. Oops! Oh well, should still work. 

Day 4: Strawberry Banana-wich

*Sandwich sliced strawberries and bananas between 2 slices of whole wheat bread covered with Nutella.

My girls have never had Nutella...so, we'll see. This sweet lunch will def have something veggie-ish on the side to cut the sweetness. Or, maybe just some V8 juice. My girls think thats a treat. :) 

There are loads more. Loads. As we try them maybe I'll post and share. For now, we'll take it 4 days at a time. Wish me luck! And, what do you feed your littles for lunch? Any creative ideas or things you make? I'd love to hear them. 

Because we do eat...

I haven't shared a recipe in so long. There are a few reasons for that... 1) I was really battling with how to cook for my family the Weight Watchers way and have anyone enjoy it. 2) I haven't been buying much in the way of "fancy" for meals - we've been doing a lot of pasta and chicken to keep costs low. snoozeville. But, sometimes you do what you gotta. 3) It was so flaming hot for so long - cooking was miserable.

Today it's gray and cool and gusty outside and I'm loving every second. My children slept until 8:41am and it's been a leisurely day at home. It reminded me of a day we had last week where I tried a new recipe - and,  loved it. I plan to put this back on the menu in the next few months as we enter AUTUMN! You'll see why.

Fettuccine with Pumpkin Cream Sauce

16oz fettuccine

12oz can evaporated milk

1 T. cornstarch

2 T. butter

15oz can pumpkin puree

1 t. onion powder

1 t. salt

1/2 t. garlic powder

1/8 t. dried sage

Parm for sprinkling

shelled pumpkin seeds {optional}

1) Cook the pasta, drain, and keep warm.
2) In a med. saucepan, whisk the milk and cornstarch together. When cornstarch dissolves, place on the stove over medium heat and add 3/4 c. water, the butter, and the pumpkin. Stir.
3) When the pumpkin has smoothed and mixed in well, add the onion powder, salt, garlic powder, and sage. Stir until mixture comes to a low boil and has thickened to your liking (think...Alfredo). If it's too thin add one more T of cornstarch dissolved in a little water.
4) Toss sauce with fettuccine or ladle it over the noodles. Sprinkle with cheese and seeds if you choose.

*I almost always double the amount of garlic and whatever spice - in this case, sage. I just LOVE some savory seasoning and... I don't think it's possible to over sage things. :)
*I did not use pumpkin seeds because they are million dollars for a tiny packet. Bah. I did, however sprinkle white kidney beans on top - apparently grains and legumes make a great healthy pairing. :)
*the sauce is a great light orange color. If this scares your family - I would throw in some green salad next to it, or even some steamed broccoli. My kids loved the savory, buttery, pumpkiny flavor of the sauce so we were good.

Ah, loved this meal. So good. So fallish!
And now back to summer foods until September, at least. Don't wanna rush things, ya know!

Easy Feast

Ever have those nights where you feel like the QUEEN of the kitchen? Everything turns out perfect, smells amazing, and even tastes good. I had such a night last evening. :) It was an easy meal {tho different and special...} that came together perfectly. I even had a 3 year old asking for more of the "special salad". Spaghetti, Artichoke-Pepperoni Tossed salad, and Italian cheese bread. Yuuuum. I couldn't keep these recipes to myself in hopes that other mommas could have a smooth, semi-special, and delicious night, too. Better still - inexpensive! I found ALL of my ingredients at Aldi in one trip and spent WAY less then $20 for everything. I didn't break it up into servings and cost per plate, but, it was cheap. Love some cheap.

Now for the recipes:

Artichoke-Pepperoni Tossed Salad

10oz ready to serve salad (I bought Aldi brand salad and I've also made just a homemade salad, too)

14oz jar water-packed artichoke hearts, rinsed, drained and chopped
4oz shredded italian cheese blend or mozzarella

3 1/2oz pkg pepperoni slices

2oz jar pimientos (we skipped those...I think they taste like bland gobs of goop)

1/4c chopped red onion

1/3c italian dressing

1)In a large bowl, combine salad, artichokes, cheese, pepperoni, onion and pimientos. Drizzle with salad dressing and toss to coat. Serve immediately.

*Does not store well overnight so eat the WHOLE salad. :) Ahem, have guests over so there is someone to share it with.

Italian Cheese Bread

1/4c butter, softened

1lb French Bread, halved lengthwise (I used a Ciabatta loaf... and it was ah-mazing still)

4oz shredded italian cheese blend

1t dried oregano
1/2t garlic salt or just granulated garlic

1) Spread butter over cut sides of bread. Place on an ungreased cookie sheet. Combine cheese, oregano and garlic in a small bowl; sprinkle over bread. Bake at 350 until cheese melts, about 12-15 minutes.

For the spaghetti - no special recipe. Used whole wheat spaghetti and chose a new tomato basil sauce. Yum. {sigh} It feels so rewarding to serve a meal that everyone loves and asks for seconds on! :)