Puppy Tufts

Menu Plan 1/8/12-1/14/12

2012-01-08T12:37:00.005-05:00

Menu Plan 1/8/12-1/14/12

This week we plan on beginning our healthier eating journey. I have included a few new recipes this week.

Sunday- Apple gouda sausage, potato cakes

Chicken salad pita, pretzels, pickle strips

Chicken Rollatini with Spinach alla Parmesan, pasta

http//www.skinnytaste.com/2011/04/chicken-rollatini-with-spinach-alla.html

Monday- Turkey sausage links, cheese and egg white
Pasta salad, crackers, pickle strips and pears
Leftovers

Tuesday- Bacon, toast and cheese (BLT)
Left over pasta salad, crackers, pickle strips and pears
Italian Spinach Braid
http://www.tasteofhome.com/Recipes/Italian-Spinach-Braid

Wednesday- Turkey sausage links, cheese, toast
Leftovers, pudding
Turkey fettuccine skillet
http://www.tasteofhome.com/Recipes/Turkey-Fettuccine-Skillet

Thursday- Center cut bacon, grits, cheese
Leftovers, pudding
Beef Roast, veggies (carrots, potatoes, celery, onions)

Friday- Oatmeal with walnuts & blueberries
Grilled chicken strips, roll, fruit
Homemade Pizza

Saturday- Egg, cheese, toast
Chicken, black bean, cheese burrito, chips and salsa
Cabbage Rolls (family recipe)

What's on your menu this week?

Ciao~

Amy

Menu Plan 1/1-1/7

2012-01-01T15:02:00.008-05:00

Menu Plan 1/1/2012-1/7/2012

The first menu plan of the new year. We kept it simple as we're celebrating birthdays this week. I plan on incorporating some new recipes in the menu plans beginning on 1/9.

Steak fajitas with mexican rice

Flounder & shrimp, baked potato

Cheeseburgers, potato wedges

Baked spaghetti, salad

Roasted pork tenderloin, potatoes, carrots, celery and onion

Leftovers x1

Whole roast chicken, sugar snap peas & wild rice

What's on your menu plan this week?

Ciao~

Amy

Reflections of 2011

2012-01-01T13:14:00.002-05:00

We wave farewell to 2011 and usher in 2012 with bells, whistles, aspirations and dare I say resolutions.

Brad and I spent a quiet evening at home reflecting on the year 2011 and that overall it was a good year. We took time and talked about our goals and aspirations for 2012. This has become a tradition for us and we both enjoy the quality time together reflecting on the year gone by.

We celebrated our first 10 years together, we both turned 40, went through changes at work and I had successful surgery to fix my sinuses and nose, enjoyed a farm co-up (CSA) membership this year. It was a milestone year for the both of us. Life is good!

How did you ring in the New Year and do you have any resolutions or aspirations for 2012?

Wishing all the best for 2012!

Ciao~
Amy

Menu Plan 12/11-12/17

2011-12-11T15:02:00.003-05:00

Menu Plan 12/11-12/17

We have a busy week ahead. Family coming in from out of town on Saturday and Sunday we're meeting my family for our annual get together. I will be doing some baking this week as my schedule allows. I will take pics and post as I can.

Salisbury steak, fresh greenbeans, potatoes and carrots
Tortellini casserole with homemade sauce
Mexi-melts and nachos
Roasted pork tenderloin with wild rice and mushrooms
BBQ crockpot chicken with potato wedges

Saturday is our holiday dinner with extended family. It's taking place at our house and I am doing the cooking.
Honey baked ham clone, broccoli rice and cheese casserole, stuffed mushrooms, homemade yeast rolls, cheese ball with asst crackers, relish tray, cheesecake both sugar free and regular. One of our guests is a sugar free eater.

Ciao~
Amy

Holiday Time

2011-12-11T14:11:00.002-05:00

Holiday Time...

came around like a whirling cloud of leaves, dust and twigs this year. It seems like each year the time zips by and before we know it it's time to bring the year to an end and celebrate the Holidays. I love the holidays, getting to see family that I don't see often and taking time to enjoy being with those we care about. As I get older I refuse to stress about perfect gifts, bows and ribbons. My main focus is spending time with the ones I care about.

That being said my holiday list is below and I am happy to report that it's almost done.

Spend time with those I care about
XXX Gifts to buy
Goodies to bake
XXX Meals to plan
XXX Christmas cards to send holiday cheer
XXX Ribbon bows to make and curl
Stockings to hang

What's on your holiday list?

~Ciao!
Amy

Menu Plan 12/4-12/10

2011-12-04T14:58:00.004-05:00

Our menu plan for this week is a simple plan this week. We've both been very busy and simple seems to work best right now. Tomorrow 12/5/11 is our 10 year anniversary.

So we're doin' it up BBQ style.

12/4-12/10 Menu Plan

Steak, potatoes, white asparagus

BBQ ribs, baked beans, pasta salad

Homemade Italian Sauage with portobello tortelli

Parmesan Crusted Baked Flounder, potato wedges (fish & chips)

Grilled Chicken, lima beans

Meatballs, smashed potatoes (this is a new recipe with pineapple)

https://www.kraftrecipes.com/recipes/pineapple-glazed-cocktail-meatballs-120718.aspx

Zesty Chicken Tortilla Bake (this is a new recipe per Brad's request)

What's on your menu plan this week? I'd love to hear about it...

Ciao~ Amy

Post Thanksgiving Weekend ~

2011-11-26T16:38:00.003-05:00

Hi Everyone-

Thanksgiving has come and past. It's hard to believe the holidays are upon us for 2011. In less than 30 days Christmas will be here and another year gone.

Our holiday seasons are busy with our anniversary, birthdays for both of us and the normal holidays. We usually run all over going to family and celebrating.

Thsi year we stayed home and had family over. It was a nice change of pace and we enjoyed the slow, restful day. Yes, we still cooked for everyone and it was a hit.

Most of the leftovers were consumed and the remainder was frozen for consumption later on. Now we begin the planning for our Anniversary which is December 5th (10 years).

I hope everyone is having a great weekend~
Ciao~ Amy

Freezer Cooking

2011-10-30T15:50:00.003-04:00

I spent about 3 hours on Saturday cooking for the upcoming week. We are trying to eliminate as much processed food as possible from our diets and I have been trying to keep homemade goodies on hand to help with that.

This session included:

Blueberry Walnut Bread
Meatballs
http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ina-garten/individual-meat-loaves-recipe/index.html
Hard Crust Rolls
Caramel Coconut Pecan Cake
Cheeseball
http://www.kraftrecipes.com/recipes/party-cheese-ball-54440.aspx

Once again no pics. I will update with pics once I get back to my regular computer. This one does not like attachments.

Ciao~
Amy

Menu Plan 10/30-11/5

2011-10-30T15:38:00.002-04:00

Menu Plan 10/30-11/5

I spent about 3 hours on Saturday doing some freezer, weekly cooking to help ease this week along. And to better concentrate on our efforts to eliminate processed food as much as possible from our diets.

Breakfasts
Blueberry Walnut Bread w/ cream cheese, center cut bacon x3
Boiled eggs, hard rolls
Homemade sausage, mini bagels, cheese x2
leftovers

Lunches
Deli meat sandwiches, baked chips
Leftovers x4
Peanut butter, banana sandwiches, carrot & celery sticks

Dinners
Clam chowder, homemade hard crusty rolls
Greek chicken, wild rice, sugar snap peas
Flounder, shrimp, baked fries
Lentil tacos, mexican rice
Chicken parmesan, spaghetti
Cheeseburgers, baked chips, fresh veggies
Leftovers

Snacks
Cheeseball, assorted crackers
Carrot sticks, celery, sweet pepper strips
Peanut butter crackers
Cheddar rice cakes
Almond poppyseed muffins

No picture this week. I am on a different computer that absolutely refuses to allow me to post any pics what so ever... Grrr!

What's on your menu this week?

Ciao~
Amy

Menu Plan 10/15-10/21

2011-10-16T16:16:00.008-04:00

I am trying to do better about using what we have in the pantry and freezer. This morning I took about an hour and compiled a list of freezer and pantry items. It makes for easier menu planning if you know what ya got to work with. Don't you agree?

Weeks have been crazy in the household. So I am trying to keep the menu simple, interesting and varied to suit everyone. Neither of us like a lot of leftovers or the same menu week after week.

Breakfasts
Tenderloin, biscuits, scrambled eggs and grits (our big Sunday morning breakfast, the only morning we are home together)
English muffins, homemade sausage, cheese
Breakfast burritos (Brad's specialty and favorite)
Muffins, center cut bacon x2
Muffins, turkey link sausage x2

Lunches
Leftovers x3
Black forest ham & swiss sandwiches, chips, carrot sticks
Roast chicken, swiss, pita chips
German bologna sandwiches, chips
Homemade chix, rice soup

Dinners
Baked 4 cheese tortellni with homemade italian sausage, salad
Ham Chowder
Beef roast, veggies (potatoes, carrots, onions), homemade spent grain rolls
Leftovers
Breaded baked flounder, potato wedges
Pizza (using homemade spent grain crust), boneless cognac wings
Roast herbed & apple chicken, wild rice, green beans

Snacks
Cinnamon caramel snack mix
Dark chocolate chip pecan muffins
Almond poppyseed muffins
Popcorn
Cheese & crackers

What's on your menu this week? I would love to hear from you and get some ideas for future menus...

Ciao~

Post Week Reflection

2011-10-16T16:02:00.003-04:00

This past week was a doozy. It began on Sunday, well enough with a major cooking session. Monday rolls around and then it seems things begin to spiral out of control.

> Smokey Joe ends up having to go to the vet.
> The computer that I blog from desides to crash and burn
> I think someone has put something in the water. Here lately people are so hateful and grouchy.
> The menu plan gets all out of wack due to Brad and my work schedule.

A smile is a good thing...
And such is life. The ups and downs, the potholes and rainbows all tied in together.

Ciao~

Menu Plan Week 10/10-10/15

2011-10-11T18:42:00.004-04:00

Due to being short on time this week. I just made a list of ideas to pull from for dinner. We both work each day and lunch is usually left overs or a deli meat sandwich, something quick and easy.

Leftovers x2

Clam Chowder

Stuffed Eggplant

Pizza on homemade spent grain crust

Teriyaki salmon, sauted kale, baked potatoes

Texas Hash with rolls

Ciao~

Freezer Cooking Day

2011-10-09T17:43:00.006-04:00

Spent grain rolls, (left) chocolate chip cookies, (right) almond poppy seed muffins

During this 4 hour session I made:

1 Pan of Rolls using left over spent grains from Brad's home brew

2 large spent grain Pizza Crusts - pre baked and ready to be made into pizza

2 dozen of LeVain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies - these are the best cookies ever

2 dozen Almond Poppy Seed Muffins

1 Dozen Biscuits

I had planned to make a few meals for the week but bread and cookies seemed to be the theme of the day. HA! I rolled with it and everything turned out wonderful!

Bread topped the list seeing as how we forgot to buy any at the store. We both adore homemade bread and wanted to experiment using the spent grains. I will post the recipe soon.

Ciao~

Weekly CSA Box 10/4/11

2011-10-04T19:51:00.006-04:00

We love Tuesdays. Brad swings by the Milk and Honey Farm and picks up our CSA box. I thought you may enjoy a peek at our CSA goodies.

This week we had organic eggplants, kennebec potatoes, sweet potatoes, radishes, kale, arugula, shiitake mushrooms, sweet red peppers (1 was sauted to go with the dinner gyros). The bottle of honey and mead were a trade off for some of Brad's home brews.

Do you have any eggplant recipes that are tried and true?

Ciao~

Weekly Menu 10/3/11

2011-10-04T19:15:00.011-04:00

Weekly Dinner Menu Plan 10/3/11

Parmesan Baked Flounder, potatoes

Gyros, home made tzatziki sauce & chips

Denver Steak (from freezer, marinated), pasta

Roasted pork tenderloin, potatoes, carrots, celery, onions

Left Overs

Snacks: Chocolate Blueberry and Apple Walnut Muffins

What's goodies are on your weekly menu?

Ciao~

Life Journeys

2011-10-02T17:46:00.003-04:00

It's been ages since I have made an appearance here. You know how it goes, life happens. Boy, a lot has happened. Some things major, some minor. As we age, the journey down the path of life seems to go faster and faster. The pot holes get bigger and deeper; the curves more crooked and the hills steeper to climb.

You huff and puff more determined than ever to keep truckin' along. Things you used to have time for take a back burner for newer more pressing things. You cruise along for a while and things seem like they're steady as she goes. ThEn WhAm! Whoa what just happened. Ha!

This beautiful thing called LIFE.

Please join me as I attempt to get back in my bloggin' groove! Oh, how I have missed the banter, the good, the bad and even the UGLY!

Ciao~
Amy

Movies, Cars and Such...

2010-01-05T11:08:00.003-05:00

Good morning everyone,

The first week of 2010 brings with it blustry weather. It is extremely cold and windy here as we endure through our longest cold snap since 1977 in NC. I long for springtime and 65-75 degree days.

On our weekly errand run yesterday Maxine (my car) decided that it time to visit the auto shop. Do you name your car? Brad and I pondered over the name for all of our vehicles for a while. (smile) It's a part of the family too. So after lunch we drop her off for services at the local shop.

Then for my birthday today are going to see the movie Sherlock Holmes. For those of you that know me I am a huge fan of the novels and anxiously await the movie. I will post a review tomorrow.

I'll leave you today with a picture of the birthday cake that Brad made for me. It's decadent and beautiful. It's a white cake with coconut rum and nuts mixed in. Then iced with cream cheese icing, more coconut rum and cherries. Yummy!

Take care and stay warm ~ Amy

Happy Birthday to Me!

2010-01-02T11:25:00.008-05:00

Myspace Happy Birthday Comments

The big 39 has arrived. It's offcially my birthday. I am excited to start new journey in my life at this age.

My birthday is a good time for me to reflect as it's so close to New Years.

Brad is going to make me a cake and cook dinner later. I'll take pics and post them tomorrow. Brad also asked me what I wanted. My response was "Nothing really comes to mind. I just to spend some quality time with my fellas (Smokey and Brad)." I am at a very happy place and just enjoying spending time with those that I love.

I am off to enjoy my day~

Have a wonderful day and take care~

Amy

Happy New Year

2010-01-01T12:16:00.003-05:00

Happy New Year Glitter

Happy New Year everyone!

I am anxious to sweep out 2009 and begin the year 2010. Brad and I spend New Years Eve reflecting on the current year and things we would like to accomplish and do in the coming year. This year was no exception. We have a lot planned for 2010. We don't make resolutions but do try to make a few plans for things we like to do or accomplish. (That's not really a resolution, is it?)

We both vow to exercise more and get in better shape. Especially as we near the big 40.

I am looking forward to getting back on track with my blogging. The year 2009 left a lot to be desired in our household and I lost my momentum and did not blog much during the later half of the year.

As most couples do we discuss budgets, financial stuff and what can we do better for 2010. Are there any skills that we would like to learn, etc. We both have a lot that we want to accomplish for the year 2010.

What plans do you have for 2010?

Cheers to you and yours! May you and your family have lots of joy and prosper in 2010!

Take care~Amy

Happy Homemaker Monday

2009-11-02T09:55:00.006-05:00

Thank you Sandra for posting Happy Homemaker Monday. Please click the link above for more great posts.

The weather in my neck of the woods: Partly cloudy, cooler, very fallish.

One of my simple pleasures: Reading while sipping a cup of hot tea.

On my bedside table: Stay at Home Guide to Making Money From Home. I am interested in starting my own business and am learning the ins and outs.

On my tv: NCIS, NCIS LA, Bones, Criminal Minds, Super Natural. Hmmm... Is there a theme of murder and mayhem. (smile)

On the menu for tonight: Chicken and herb dumplings.

New recipe I tried last week: I have been in a funk lately and it's been old family favorites. Trying to get back to trying something new each week.

In the craft basket: Bread bags still waiting on me. Sewing a patch on a denim jacket for Brad.

Looking forward to: Going to see the Christmas Carol Movie with Jim Carrey soon. I am a big fan of the story.

Homemaking tip for this week: Don't lift the beater out of the mixing bowl when your boyfriend purposely scares you. Batter will fly all over and the dog will enjoy licking it up. Ask me how I know this! LOL

Favorite blog post of the week (mine or other): I have been enjoying this series from Money Saving Mom about working from home.

http://http://www.moneysavingmom.com/money_saving_mom/2009/10/becoming-a-workathome-mom-starting-with-small-things-part-2.html

Favorite photo from last week: Halloween was Smokey's birthday. He is 2 years old. Brad snapped this picture of him right after he had finished drinking a bunch of water. He still has water drops on his little chin whiskers.

Lesson learned the past few days: As you journey down the path of life there will be pot holes, curves and hills to climb. They make you a stronger and better person.

On my prayer list: Smokey, he was very sick the first part of last week with a very bad infection and ran a fever 3 days. We were very concerned, the vet put him on high powered antibiotics. My family and friends.

Take Care~ Amy

Happy Homemaker Monday

2009-10-19T10:54:00.005-04:00

Thanks to Sandra for hosting this. Click above to visit her blog familycorner.
The weather in my neck of the woods:

Today: Sunny. High 64F. Winds light and variable.
Tonight: Mostly clear. Low 37F. Winds light and variable.
Tomorrow: Mainly sunny. High 74F. Winds light and variable.
Tomorrow night: Clear skies. Low 42F. Winds light and variable

One of my simple pleasures: Playing fetch with Smokey.

On my bedside table: Alarm clock, phone and some natural chapstick.

On my TV: Nothing at this moment. NCIS orginal and LA versions and SuperNatural, Criminal Minds, Bones, Mentalist and Smallville episodes.

On the menu for tonight: Steak quesadillas and nachos.

On my to do list: Run Dish Washer, Sweep and mop the floors.

New Recipe I Tried Last Week: Courtesy of Taste of Home Pineapple Nut Cake.

http://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/Makeover-Pineapple-Nut-Cake

In the Craft Basket: Bread bags. Injuring my hand has delayed this even further.

Looking forward to: My hand healing completely and not aching anymore.

Homemaking Tip of this week: My breadmaker slides on the counter and I was fearful that it would fall off. I bought a roll of the rubber shelf liner and cut out a piece of that and place it under the breadmaker. Waaalaaa.. no more sliding.

Favorite Photo of the Week: Brad took this picture near the Blue Ridge Parkway last Sunday while riding his motorcycle with his riding buddies. It takes your breath away.

Favorite Blog Post of the Week: http://heavenlyhomemakers.com/blog/dont-know-much-a-poem-by-the-heavenly-homemaker

Lesson learned the past few days: Life is not measured by the breaths we take; but by the moments that take our breath away.

On my prayer list: My family, pup and friends.

Slow Cooker Thursday

2009-10-15T15:05:00.003-04:00

Hello everyone~

Had to take a break on blogging for a few days as I pulled a muscle in my hand moving furniture. UGH~ It is still tender but doing better.

Here is a favorite at our house that we will be eating for dinner.

Smoked Crock Chicken
4-6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup BBQ sauce of your choice (I used Jack Daniel's)

Pour a 1/3 of BBQ sauce in bottom of crock. Place 2-3 breasts on top of sauce and then cover with 1/3 more BBQ sauce. Place remaining breast on top of other breasts and cover with last 1/3 of sauce. Cook on low 6-8 hours or until cooked through.

I used 4 very large chicken breasts, that were frozen solid. They cooked on high for 4 hours and low for the last 2 hours. It comes out like smoked chicken. MMM! Served with squash casserole and fresh green beans.

Take care~ Amy

Cheese Danish Anyone

2009-10-09T10:05:00.003-04:00

Good morning~

Yesterday I woke up wanting something decadent and sweet to go with my coffee. Usually I have cereal or and english muffin. But alas, that was not going to work yesterday.

I made some cheese danish (a new recipe) it was so simple and hit that decadent spot I had. Brad enjoyed them and I think Smokey even got a bite or two. (smile) Unfortuantely I did not take a pic of them and when I awoke this morning the elves that visit in night had eaten all of them. *laugh*

Cheese Danish (Serves 4)
I am not sure where the recipe came from or I would give credit.

1 8oz pkg of Crescents
3 cream cheese,softened (I used low fat)
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 t vanilla
1 T melted butter
cinnamon sugar mix

Unroll Crescent dough into 4 rectangles and seal perforations. Beat cream cheese, sugar and vanilla until smooth and blended. Spoon cream cheese mixture onto 1/2 of the Crescent rectangle and then fold the other half over to cover. Pinching edges to seal. Brush each with melted butter and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar mix.

Bake 350 for 12-17 minutes or until golden brown.

~Take care Amy

Time for Chili~

2009-10-07T10:01:00.002-04:00

We are helping a friend move and I threw this chili in the crock yesterday to cook while we were away. It was nice coming home to a hot cooked meal.

My apologies for not getting a pic of the chili we were exhausted when we got home.

Salsa Chili

1-1.5 lbs of lean stew meat, browned
1 can of kidney beans
1/2 cup salsa
1 can of diced tomatoes
1 cup reduced sodium beef broth
2 minced garlic cloves
2 T chili powder
1 t drived oregano leaves
* I added 1/4 cup of chopped roasted red peppers that I needed to use
Optional Toppings - sour cream, sliced green onions, cheese

Brown meat. Add everything except optional toppings to crock and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Serve with toppings of choice.

Reminiscing

2009-10-06T10:29:00.004-04:00

Here lately the days seem to fly by with no thought to what is going on or what has to be done.

This time of year always has me taking a few moments each day to reminisce about days gone by. My mother passed away a few years ago and I miss her stories of an era that has been passed by.

Recently Brad and I went to an antique car show. Brad and I both have a huge affection towards old cars, motorcycles, rat rods, etc. My love comes from being raised around old cars and such with mom and dad.

While at this car show we ran across an old 1926 era Ford. I got excited as I remember that it was the car mom said she had learned to drive in. Fond memories. She would laugh as she recalled how stiff the clutch was and how hard it was to steer with no power steering. She was 12 when she learned to drive. LOL She was a very petite woman just barely 5 feet tall. Below is a picture of the 1926 Ford that brought back all of these fond memories.

Take care ~ Amy

Happy Monday ~

2009-10-05T10:41:00.003-04:00

The weather in my neck of the woods: Yea! Fall has officially arrived. Cooler temps. Today we woke up to rain... and a massive sinus headache. JOY!

One of my simple pleasures: Sitting on the deck in the evening and watching the sunset. Beautiful.

On my bedside table: The Lost Symbol by Dan Brown

On my TV: Nothing at this moment. Have been watching NCIS orginal and LA versions and SuperNatural, Criminal Minds, Bones, Mentalist episodes.

On the menu for tonight: Left overs

On my to do list: Run Dish Washer
Sweep and mop the floors.
Clean bathrooms... The usual

New Recipe I Tried Last Week: This fit right into the feel of Fall. I used a turkey sausage. MMM! We both claimed this is a do again.
http://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/Sausage-and-Wild-Rice-Casserole?pmcode=IJJDC01T&_mid=319400&_rid=319400.291500.639316

In the Craft Basket: Bread bags. The book marks did not pan out. When I tried to dry my real flowers they kept molding. Do any of you have any ideas on this?

Looking forward to: This sinus headache I have had for 3 days to go away. Grrr!

Homemaking Tip of this week: I think we have elves that visit during the night to create dirty dishes and clutter the living room. LOL Actually their names are Brad and Smokey.

Favorite Photo of the Week: Did not take any.

Favorite Blog Post of the Week: Leaving blank. Did not get to enjoy any other posts.

Lesson learned the past few days: Given time most things work out for the best. It will happen when it is meant to happen. Patience is trually a valuable tool.

On my prayer list: My family, pup and friends. Smokey has been sick this past week and is finally on the mend. He injured his back and had to visit the vet.

Take care~ Amy

Happy Homemaker Monday ~

2009-09-28T11:07:00.002-04:00

The weather in my neck of the woods: Yea! The sunshine is peeking out and the temperatures have cooled off to the mid 70's.

One of my simple pleasures: Having a cup of hot tea at night while Brad and I discuss our day.

On my bedside table: The Lost Symbol by Dan Brown & French Women Don't Get Fat

On my TV: Nothing at this moment. I am excited about new TV Fall lineup and will be watching NCIS orginal and LA versions and SuperNatural, Criminal Minds, Bones, Mentalist episodes.

On the menu for tonight: Something with hamburger --

On my to do list: Run Dish Washer - done
Laundry
Sweep and mop the floors.
Visit the local farmer's market to see what I can find.

New Recipe I Tried Last Week:
http://puppytufts.blogspot.com/2009/09/stuffed-pork-tenderlion.html

In the Craft Basket: Bread bags and bookmarks. The flowers are taking a while to dry, if they do for the book marks.

Looking forward to: Cooler weather, the leaves turning all the warm earthy colors that they do. I love the crispness in the air, just not the allergies that follow :o)

Homemaking Tip of this week: When I am cooking I lay a piece of wax paper down to put my trash on. (i.e. peelings, egg shells, etc) The wax paper is not expensive and saves me from having to clean an additional dish.

Favorite Photo of the Week: Did not take any.

Favorite Blog Post of the Week: Leaving blank. Did not get to enjoy any other posts.

Lesson learned the past few days: Everyone needs down time. Every once in a while you need to take a day and pamper, read, enjoy life. Let the house work go and enjoy!

On my prayer list: My family, pup and friends.

Take care~ Amy

Please pardon me while I rant...

2009-09-23T10:00:00.005-04:00

I am a easy going person, love to laugh and have fun. Don't fly off the handle easily.

My motto -
"What will be, will be. Live and let live"

However, it makes me furious to have someone try to steal from me or lie to me. I also am not fond of thieves.

I had to make a run to Wal-mart. Let me add that I generally try to limit my trips to to Wally World to one time per month, I am not fond of going. Lots of people, noise, parking, always spend too much, etc. But... they are cheaper on a lot of items that we buy.

My buggy has my cloth shopping bags and my envelope of coupons in the child seat. I park my buggy on the aisle 3 feet from me while I grab some air sanitizer. My back is turned toward the buggy. I turn around to place my item in the buggy and there is an older lady that has MY cloth shopping bag under her arm and is going through MY envelope of coupons.

1st thought - That's not my buggy.
2ND thought - But, that is my cloth bag and my writing on the front of the envelope.
3rd thought - Temper begins a slow simmer and then mass eruption ... "PUT MY DAMN THINGS DOWN! WHAT ARE YOU DOING?!"
4Th thought - Guilty lady stutters that she was going to buy the items. My response "You can't buy those bags here and if you want coupons you need to purchase your own Sunday paper" I think it's time for you to leave.

The aisle is full of about 10-12 people and the lady nearest me says Oh my, she is trying to steal that. The guilty lady starts to take off (I have my things back) and two guys on the aisle start off after her. The one guy grabs a Wal-mart associate and informs them of what happened.

I did not see her again before I left and don't really know what happened to her.

Stepping down off of rant ... Thank you for your patience and understanding throughout my rant.

Take care~ Amy

Stuffed Pork Tenderlion

2009-09-22T08:02:00.002-04:00

I wanted to go something elegant for dinner last night. I get in those moods where I want to try something new and "gourmet". Last night's tenderloin was a winner and gorgeous. When you slice it you see the white of the tenderloin and vibrancy of the orange apricots. My apologies for not snapping any pics. It disappeared before I had a chance to say 1, 2, 3 click...

Stuffed Tenderloin (A friend gave me this recipe a while back)

3/4 to 1 lb pork tenderloin
1/3 cup swiss cheese shredded
1/4 cup thinly sliced dried apricots
1/4 t dried thyme
1 garlic clove minced
1 T butter, melted

Preheat oven to 375. Slice tenderloin in 1/2 length wise but not in two. It will resemble a book you can open and close. Combine cheese, apricots, thyme and garlic. Sprinkle on 1/2 of the open tenderloin. Close tenderloin (I secured with toothpicks). Brush with melted butter and place in cooking spray coated baking pan. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160. Mine was thick and took close to an hour to bake. Serves 2. (This could easily be doubled or tripled for company)

I served this with french style green beans and smashed potatoes.

Happy Homemaker Monday

2009-09-21T10:04:00.002-04:00

The weather in my neck of the woods: Gray and dreary. It has been for over a week now. I am ready for the sunshine to peek through again.

One of my simple pleasures: Baking. I love to get my hands in the dough and work out my frustrations.

On my bedside table: The Lost Symbol by Dan Brown.

On my TV: Nothing at this moment. I am excited about new NCIS and SuperNatural episodes.

On the menu for tonight: Stuffed Pork Tenderloin. I'll post the recipe tomorrow with pics.

On my to do list: Wash Dishes - done

Change linens.

Sweep and mop the floors.

Steam clean living room carpet.

New Recipe I Tried Last Week:

Fluffy Muffin Biscuits

1 cup self rising flour

2 T mayonaise

1/2 cup milk

Cut mayonaise into flour until it resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in milk just until moistened. Drop by spoonfuls into a greased muffing tin and bake at 425 for 14-16 minutes.

In the Craft Basket: Bread bags and bookmarks. I will post more on these soon...

Looking forward to: A family cookout in a couple of weeks.

Homemaking Tip of this week: I keep a plastic basket in my cabinet and place all of my lids in it. If I need a lid I can pull the basket out and have them all in one place. Easy to find and keep track of.

Favorite Photo of the Week: Did not take any.

Favorite Blog Post of the Week: Leaving blank. Did not get to enjoy any other posts.

Lesson learned the past few days: A simple smile can brighten anyones day.

On my prayer list: My sister who has been having a few health issues.

Take care~ Amy

Happy Homemaker Monday

2009-08-31T12:18:00.004-04:00

The weather in my neck of the woods: Rainy and overcast. Which makes me and my sinuses miserable. *sigh*

One of my simple pleasures: Taking a bubble bath, lighting some candles and reading a good book while soaking.

On my bedside table: Acheron {A Dark Hunter Novel} by Sherrilyn Kenyon

On my TV: True Blood, only 1 more episode to go

On the menu for tonight: Florentine Meatballs I will post the recipe later this week.

On my To Do List: Mop the kitchen floor, laundry and clean the bathrooms. Bake bread and muffins.

New Recipe I tried last week: Did not try any new ones. Will have some this week.

In the craft basket: Book marks

Looking forward to: Our friends getting married this Saturday.

Homemaking Tip for this week: Blanch whole tomatoes and then skin and pop into freezer bags to use in the winter time. Great for soups and stews.

Favorite Blog Post of the week (mine or other): Too many good ones to choose from.

Favorite photo from last week:

Lesson learned the past few days: You're never too old. I took my state board exams on Friday and passed. I am now certified in the state for nursing. YEA for me!

On my Prayer List: Family, Friends

Have a great day and take care ~ Amy

Slow Cooker Thursday

2009-08-27T10:31:00.003-04:00

This is a simple recipe and we make it quite often. I use the left overs for Stromboli or soup.

Slow Cooker Beef Roast
2.5-3.5 Beef Roast
Seasoning of choice (I use a dash of onion powder, 1 teaspoon minced garlic, salt and pepper)

Cook on low for 7-9 hours or until roast is tender.

How easy is that.

Have a good day! Amy

Day Trippin'

2009-08-26T10:20:00.007-04:00

"It's not the destination, it's the journey"

Brad and I had a case of cabin fever and decided Monday evening that we were going on a picnic yesterday.

We headed out for Shady Valley, TN to tackle what is known as "The Striped - Snake". I am here to tell you that we tackled it and did not even get nicked. (smile)

"The Striped - Snake" is a valley mountain road (Hwy 421) that has 489 curves and switch-back turns. It was fun to drive, I drove up the mtn and Brad drove down.

We visited the country store at the bottom of the snake.

Then we headed back home stopping on Blueridge Parkway for our evening picnic. This is a pic of a parkway bridge in Wilkesboro, NC.

Along the way we saw the "Rat Rod" below and both fell in love with it. We are both big gear heads and love classic, muscle, antique, rat rod cars and things.

Take care and have a great day!

Amy

Happy Homemaker Monday

2009-08-24T09:42:00.007-04:00

The weather in my neck of the woods: A bit cloudy, but the sun is trying to peek through.

One of my simple pleasures: Stepping out on the deck in the morning (early) and listening to the birds singing, the crickets chirping, the squirrels barking. It just relaxing me and makes me smile that their day is just beginning too.

On my bedside table: The last book currently out in the True Blood series Dead and Gone. I just finished From Dead to Worse. These books have been great.

On my TV: True Blood. Last night's episode had everything drama, comedy, etc. It also had some nice views of Erik (lol)

On the menu for tonight: Greek Chicken Penne. If this turns out good I'll post the recipe later this week with pics.

On my To Do List: Make some cookies, the jar is empty and some apple muffins.

New Recipe I tried last week: Peach upside down cake. This was very good. http://www.lynnskitchenadventures.com/2009/08/peach-upside-down-cake.html

In the craft basket: Bookmarks using fresh flowers. Once I have the first one complete I'll post pics and directions.

Homemaking Tip for this week: Keeping a list on the fridge of the things you use between grocery trips. I keep a list posted it makes grocery shopping easier.

Favorite Blog Post of the week (mine or other): Hmmm... tough one.

Favorite photo from last week: Smokey Joe looking regal.

Lesson learned the past few days: Some people are not who they pretend to be. They may pretend to be your friend but when it all boils down they only want something from you.

On my Prayer List: My family, our troops, my 85 year old neighbor who fell and broke her leg a couple of weeks ago.

Have a good day everyone~

Amy

Baking Day Update

2009-08-19T10:21:00.008-04:00

Hi everyone~

I had a small baking day yesterday. Check out my goodies below.

I made the wheat bread recipe from Tammy Recipes after the numerous rave reviews I read about. It is very good. Brad and I both deemed it a keeper.

http://tammysrecipes.com/homemade_wheat_bread

I also made a dozen Original Nestle Tollhouse Chocolate Chip cookies. I had a small roll of dough from a previous batch of these.

This is a Peach Upside Down cake from Lynn's Kitchen Adventures. I had peaches from our trip to the mtns this weekend and this was an excellent way to use them. MMM!

I think my peaches may have been larger than hers. I used four and it was covered in peaches.

http://www.lynnskitchenadventures.com/2009/08/peach-upside-down-cake.html

Have you baked anything this week?

Have a good day~Amy

Critter Bites~

2009-08-18T10:26:00.002-04:00

Good morning everyone~

It seems that critters (mosquitoes, bees, etc) basically anything that bites or stings just love me. I got stung on the nose near my left eye. Now, can you imagine on the nose of all places my body has to offer for a sting?

Those of you who know Brad will understand what he said {jokingly to me} "Amy, it looks like you got stung on your nose. I'm going to have to put a bag over your head when we go out today." HA HA
We pick very hard with each other, it keeps us young and our relationship of almost 8 years going strong.

I have severe allergies to more stuff than you can imagine and instead of welting up it has turned into a scabbed sore instead. *sigh* Of course it also has to be right where my nose piece on my eyeglasses goes too. LOL

Anyway, I going to go take my stung nosey and get back to my baking day. I'll update and try to take pics of what I get into today so I can post them later today or tomorrow.

Have a good day~ Take care Amy

Mondays

2009-08-17T09:22:00.004-04:00

Good morning everyone~

Joining in with some of the other bloggers I am going to let you know what I am up to or have in store this week.

Weather in NC - Extremely hot and dry.

My simple pleasure - Playing fetch with Smokey.

Currently Reading - Definitely Dead a Southern Vampire Novel (The TV Series True Blood is based on these books)

On My TV - True Blood and the occasional rerun of NCIS that I may not have seen yet.

On the menu tonight- Cube steak with gravy.

New Recipe I tried last week- Light Banana Bread http://puppytufts.blogspot.com/2009/08/light-banana-bread.html

Looking forward to - Taking my state board exam next week and having that over with.

Favorite picture from last week-

What are you up to this week?

Have a wonderful day and take care~

Amy

Day Trippin'

2009-08-16T16:01:00.011-04:00

Hello Everyone~

We headed off on a Blue Ridge Parkway journey yesterday and had a nice time. We visited the produce stands in Cana VA and picked up some luscious produce that I am going to be using in some tried and trued recipes this week. Throwing in some new ones to round out the mix.

If you live close I highly recommend packing a picnic lunch, the camera and prepare to be awed. We love to take day trips and let the stress just flow out the windows as we cruise in the car at a leisurely 45 mph pace with the windows down. We begin out trip in Cana VA and ride the parkway to Wilkesboro NC. It takes about 6-8 hours depending on how many stops you make.

Here's a few pics so that you can enjoy the scenic trip as much as we did. It's like you step back in time to a slower pace, cleaner air and breath taking scenic vistas that I could personally look at day after day.

This is Fox Hunter's Paradise and is at an elevation of roughly 2300 ft.

This is the Blue Ridge Music Center. This was a first visit for us and it was very nice. Inside is a tribute to music from the 1920's era and small gift shop with souvenirs. They also put on outdoor concerts on summer evenings.

Have a wonderful day! Amy

Light Banana Bread

2009-08-14T10:52:00.003-04:00

Good day everyone~

We have all bought too many bananas at one time or another and had a couple that end up being over ripe. I had two bananas that were over ripe I decided to try and find a light banana bread to make. Admitting that Banana Nut Bread is a favorite of mine.

Well, courtesy of the Cooking Light Website I found a very good recipe that uses yogurt instead of oil. I did not have vanilla yogurt on hand so I used strawberry banana yogurt and I only used 3/4 cup sugar. The results were excellent and I will make this again. The link to the recipe is posted below.

http://find.myrecipes.com/recipes/recipefinder.dyn?action=displayRecipe&recipe_id=549764

Take care ~ Amy

Slow Cooker Thursday

2009-08-13T11:01:00.003-04:00

Good morning everyone~

I have a tried and true favorite of ours in the crock today.

Garlic Beef Stroganoff

2 t of beef bouillon powder(I have used chicken bouillon with great results)
1 cup boiling water
1 regular can of cream of mushroom soup
2 cans (4 oz each) of sliced mushrooms
3 garlic cloves minced
1 T Worcestershire sauce
1-1/2 to 2 lbs of boneless round stead cut into thin strips (can use stew meat, cut up roast, hamburger)

1 small onion chopped

1/2 stalk of celery minced

1 pkg cream cheese (8 oz)
1 t Dijon mustard
Hot cooked noodles

In slow cooker, dissolve bouillon in water. Add next 4 ingredients and stir. In skillet sprayed with cooking spray brown beef, slightly cook onion and celery. Add meat mixture to slow cooker. Cook on low 7-8 hours or until meat in tender. Stir in cubed cream cheese and dijon mustard until smooth. Serve over hot cooked noodles.

This reheats very well. I ususally serve with a crusty warm bread and a small salad.

Enjoy!

Amy :o)

Rainy Days -

2009-08-12T11:24:00.003-04:00

Good morning ~

Finally, a reprieve from the heat wave we have been experiencing. It's overcast, rainy and a cool 72 degrees right now.

The homemade bagels were just as tasty this morning with a smear of cream cheese. MMM!

Plan on cleaning up the house a little today and that's as far as my plans go. :o)

On the menu for dinner is Garlic Beef Stroganoff. I will post the recipe tomorrow.

Take care and have a great day!
Amy

Homemade Bagels... Oh My!

2009-08-11T13:29:00.002-04:00

Good afternoon everyone-

I have been wanting to make homemade bagels for quite a while. Every recipe I read just intimidated me. I finally found one that was easy to follow and did not require a ton of ingredients.

Courtesy of Mennonite Girls Can Cook Blog:
http://mennonitegirlscancook.blogspot.com/2009/06/multigrain-bagels.html

I used 2 cups of regular bread & 2 1/4 cups of whole wheat flour. The only problem I had was getting my bagels to seal. Next time I make these (and there will be a next time) I will use a big glass and then a smaller one to cut the center circle out.

We made breakfast sandwiches out of them. I froze half of them for later and kept the others out for breakfast the remainder of the week. They will be decadent with some cream cheese or peanut butter and a freshly ground cup of coffee.

Have a wonderful day, take care- ~Amy

Monday morning -

2009-08-10T10:04:00.002-04:00

Good morning everyone~

I am excited to announce my NA1 class is over and I passed with an A. YEA! At the end of this month I will take my state certification exam.

We have been having a heat wave here in the south. Temperatures have been near 100 for the past 3 days. Brad and I have stayed indoors, the heat is relentless.

There's not much going on in our neck of the woods. We have been watching True Blood on TV (we both love vampire movies, tales, etc.) and I have been reading the books the series was based on. The books are entertaining and it's interesting to see how close the TV show stays to the books.

Here is a new recipe that I tried over the weekend that is a definite keeper.

Blueberry Cheesecake Bars courtesy of Betty Crocker.
I used light cream cheese and evaporated milk for the whipping cream.

http://www.bettycrocker.com/Recipes/PrintRecipe.aspx?recipeid=42454

Have a wonderful Monday and take care~
Amy

Good morning, won't you join me...

2009-07-31T09:26:00.003-04:00

Please pull up a chair and have a cup of fresh brewed coffee and an orange danish with me so we can catch up.

Yesterday I completed my final exam for my NA1 class. It was a tough one, but I am proud to report that I passed with flying colors.

We have 8 hours of class remaining to do mock state board testing.

Life is good in my neck of the woods. I have missed visiting with each of you on a daily basis.

Please tell me what you have been up too...

Take care, Amy

Slow Cooking Thursday

2009-07-31T08:56:00.002-04:00

Hello~

I meant to post this yesterday and did not get around to it.

We tried this recipe over the weekend and it was very good. It does make a large amount. I froze some it for quick meals later. I served it with Spanish Rice and home made quacamole.

Pork BurritosFrom Healthy Cooking

1 boneless pork sirloin roast (3 pounds)
1/4 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth
1 envelope reduced-sodium taco seasoning
1 tablespoon dried parsley flakes
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 can (16 ounces) refried beans
1 can (4 ounces) chopped green chilies
14 flour tortillas (8 inches), warmed
Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, chopped tomatoes,chopped green pepper, guacamole,reduced-fat sour cream and shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese

DIRECTIONS1. Cut roast in half; place in a 4- or 5-qt. slow cooker.In a small bowl, combine the broth, taco seasoning, parsley,garlic, pepper and salt. Pour over roast. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or until meat is very tender. (Mine cooked for 9 1/2 hours)

2.Remove pork from the slow cooker; cool slightly. Shred withtwo forks; set aside. Skim fat from the liquid; stir in beansand chilies. Return pork to the slow cooker; heat through.Spoon 1/2 cup pork mixture down the center of each tortilla;add toppings of your choice. Fold sides and ends over fillingand roll up.
Yield: 14 servings.

Amy

Life Happens~

2009-07-17T11:49:00.005-04:00

Life is what happens to you while you're busy making other plans.
*John Lennon

Hi everyone~

My apologies for not posting in ions. As I am sure that you all know, life happens. The last couple of weeks have been very busy. School is winding down and the pace has picked up and requires more study time. I can't believe there is only a few more weeks and I will have completed my NA1 class.

Time sure does fly. So, what has everyone been up to?

Brad and I have been busy and not had a lot time for couple activities. We took time yesterday to have a date night. We saw Tranformers Revenge of the Fallen last night. It was very action packed and better than the first movie. Everyone in the theater laughed and there were several gasps in the climatic parts of the movie. *gasp* Yes I was a gasper.

My posts will be limited over the next couple of weeks as I take time to study for finals. I will post soon.

Take care - Amy

Monday Menu Plan

2009-06-29T08:41:00.004-04:00

Hello~

Here is my menu plan for this week. Usually I have a difficult time sticking to a menu plan. However, I am going to be pulling my hair out with my clinical training starting this week and will need all the help I can get *smile*. I planned around things that I have in the freezer, pantry, etc. If it's a new recipe, I'll post it after making it.

Breakfasts- (I am the only one that eats breakfast)
Oatmeal x2
Cream of Wheat
Shredded Wheat
Banana, toast
Boiled egg and toast

Lunches-
Roast Beef Sandwiches and pasta salad
Sausage Pinwheels & Frittata
Grilled chicken wraps, l/o pasta salad
Philly Cheese Steak Sandwiches
Grilled hot dogs, chips
Left overs

Dinners-
Homemade Pizza, saucy chicken bites
Veggie Enchilada Bake, salad
Grilled burgers and veggie packs
Grilled apple chicken, grilled corn on cob, broccoli w/ cheese
Fish and chips
Apricot Stuffed Tenderloin, steamed spinach, baked potato

Snacks-
Homemade Apple Muffins
Homemade Brownies
Homemade Garlic- onion cheese spread

Take care ~ Amy

Sundays

2009-06-28T09:11:00.003-04:00

Good morning everyone~

It's hard to believe that we are getting ready to begin the month of July. Time flies. It seems the older you get the more time flies.

The apple juice brined pork chops were a bit on the salty side. Very moist, tender and tasty. Brad and I think they need an additional soak in ice water to leach out some of the salt.

I used 1 cup unsweetened apple juice, 1/2 cup kosher salt and enough water to make sure the brine solution covered the chops. They have to lay in a single layer while soaking and must soak for 4 hours. I rinsed them off before grilling but think they need to soak for 30 minutes or so in just plain water after removing from the brine solution.

Have a good day!
Amy

Saturday

2009-06-27T10:24:00.005-04:00

Good morning everyone~

It's a hot one here in NC this morning. The humidity was overwhelming at 7:30 AM this morning as Smokey and I took our ritual morning walk.

On today's menu is a new recipe I hope turns out well. I am apple juice brining pork chops to grill later. I will update on how good or bad (let's hope not) that they are.

I was browsing the pics we have and came across this baby photo of Smokey Joe. *you just have to smile* He is adorable.
Take care~ Amy

Friday

2009-06-26T10:21:00.002-04:00

Good morning everyone~

Yea! We have made it to the weekend. *smile* I hope everyone has had a good week. Smokey continues to improve and is doing a lot better. His visit to the vet has him on limited activity. *ha* Have any of you tried to keep a 1 year old pup on limited activity? Let me tell you it's not easy.

The Tropical BBQ Chicken last night was very good, we both claimed it a keeper. We served it with smashed potatoes and baked beans.

If time allows this weekend I hope to have a baking day and make a few things to stash in the freezer for quick breakfasts. I'll keep you up to date on that goes.

Take care~
Amy

Slow Cooker Thursday

2009-06-25T16:33:00.002-04:00

Hello everyone~

I am participating in Slow Cooking Thursday today and below is the recipe that is currently cooking in the slow cooker. The recipe is from Taste of Home. I will give a review on it tomorrow.

I used 5 large chicken legs.

Tropical BBQ Chicken
2 chicken leg quarters (8 ounces each), skin removed
3 tablespoons ketchup
2 tablespoons orange juice
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon minced fresh parsley
1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/4 teaspoon garlic salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper
2 teaspoons cornstarch
1 tablespoon water
DIRECTIONS
With a sharp knife, cut leg quarters at the joints if desired; place in a 1-1/2-qt. slow cooker. In a small bowl, combine the ketchup, orange juice, brown sugar, vinegar, oil, parsley, Worcestershire sauce, garlic salt and pepper; pour over chicken. Cover and cook on low for 3-1/2 to 4 hours or until a meat thermometer inserted into the chicken reads 180°. Remove chicken to a serving platter; keep warm. Transfer 1/2 cup cooking juices to a small saucepan. Combine cornstarch and water until smooth; stir into cooking juices. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. Serve with chicken. Yield: 2 servings.

Have a good day ~ Amy

Monday ~

2009-06-22T10:13:00.002-04:00

Good morning everyone~

Smokey is doing much better, thank goodness. He will be going back to the vet later this week for a checkup.

We had a good weekend, not doing a whole lot.

I have tried a few new recipes that I will be posting soon.

Have a good day~ Take care.
Amy

Smokey Joe

2009-06-19T08:34:00.003-04:00

Hi everyone~

I've been absent almost all week. Smokey jumped off of the sofa earlier this week and injured his back pretty bad. We took him to the vet and they gave him meds to take the swelling down in his spine. It was not looking good there for a while. He could not use his hind legs at all. After a intravenous shot of cortisone and cortisone pills every 12 hours he is wobbly but back up. He is on pain pills, antibiotic and cortisone pills. Brad and I have been beside ourselves. For those that know us Smokey Joe is our baby and the child neither one of us have, and he is only a year old. His dare devil ways will have to slowed down.

I also injured my back and have been having a hard time getting around. No clue what I did, I just know it's painful. Currently, I am leaning on the heating pad.

As we always hear people say "It's been one of those weeks."

I hope you have a good Friday.
Take care~
Amy

Chocolate Cures Everything smile

2009-06-15T13:44:00.004-04:00

Happy Monday~

We started our week off with rain in NC after our relaxing weekend. Spent watching movies and reading.

Last night for dinner we had the Barefoot Contessa's Individual Meat Loaves, fresh green beans, carrots and potatoes along with Mocha Pudding Cakes.

Brad simply loves chocolate and we were out of sweet things. I whipped these little jewels up, doubling the recipe so we could have a couple today too. The Mocha Pudding Cakes recipe is from Cooking for 2 and is quite simple to make. I add a dash of cinnamon and make sure that I place a cookie sheet or something similar under the remekins or custard cups they tend to overflow.

http://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/Mocha-Pudding-Cakes

Have a great day and take care~
Amy

Saturday Morning -

2009-06-13T10:09:00.004-04:00

Good morning everyone~

I have been absent a couple of days due to being under the weather. Then to top that off Brad and I ate out yesterday evening and ended up with what seemed to be a mild case of food poisoning. I am feeling better this morning and Brad is still resting. Bad stuff!

I tried a new recipe yesterday for brunch and we both loved it. It's very simple and only takes 3 ingredients. I fixed these with a Frittata and some fresh fruit.

Sausage Pinwheels
1/2 lb of sausage (I used homemade country pork sausage)
1 can of crescent rolls
1 T of chives

# Unroll crescent dough on lightly floured surface and seal all seams. Roll to 11x14.
# Spread with sausage to 1/2 inch of border. Sprinkle with chives
# Starting with the long side roll towards you forming a roll.
# Cut roll into 12 slices and place on lightly greased cookie sheet.
# Bake 375 degrees for 12-16 minutes or until golden brown.
# Mine baked 14 minutes and were perfect.

I am off to complete homework.

Take care~ Amy

Happy Wednesday

2009-06-10T09:10:00.002-04:00

Good morning everyone~

Won't you join me for a cup of tea.

It seems that as you age time flies by. As I have gotten older I have learned not to sweat the small stuff. Enjoy the here and now. Stop and smell the flowers, watch the sunrise, the sunset. Enjoy a moonlit night with a loved one. That load of laundry can wait a little longer.

My favorite time of day is very early in the morning. The birds are just waking, the rooster on the farm across the creek is crowing, the dew drops are still sparkling on the soft green grass. I like to sit on my front porch with my tea or coffee and just indulge in the sounds of nature. So very relaxing. And of course I must not forget Smokey doing his early morning prance as I greet him for the day. *smile*

Brad and I have a busy day of errands. I am going to throw dinner in the crockpot and we'll be on our merry way.

Slow Cooked Pork Chops
6 bone in chops
1 can of condensed chicken and rice soup
1/2 cup all purpose flour
cooking oil

Dredge pork chops in flour, season to taste (salt, pepper and garlic powder) and brown on each side in skillet with a little bit of oil. Brown in batches.

As the first batch of chops are brown place the layer in the crockpot. Pour half the can of soup on those chops. Place remaining browned chops in next layer and cover with other half of soup. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Have a wonderful Wednesday~
Amy

Monday

2009-06-08T17:26:00.003-04:00

Greetings~

Hope you had a great weekend. Ours was good. We finally received some good weather minus the rain. We were becoming water logged.

I was able to read a good book called Double Take by Catherine Coulter. It's been a while since I have sat down and read for the pleasure of it. Something I miss greatly. I love reading and usually get so absorbed in the book so that I become a character, transported to the actual place and time of the book. It's always been like a little mini escape for me.

Today has been spent completing homework and studying for my tests tomorrow. It was Smokey's day to get a fur trim and a clean up. He was not a happy camper until I cleaned his ears, you should have heard the noises he made *smile* He just melted.

I am at a dilemma for dinner. Can't decide and have not laid anything out yet.

Well I am off to ponder over dinner somemore. I need to decide pretty quick as it's now dinner time. :o)

Take care ~ Amy

Lazy Day Sunday

2009-06-07T18:53:00.002-04:00

Happy Sunday!

Brad and I have both had an extremely busy week. Today we have been kicked back, grilling out and just enjoying some down time.

We received good news about an ill friend in the hospital last night. He is doing much better, it was touch and go there for a while.

Neither one of us get days like this too often and cherish them when we chance upon them. :o) Hope you are enjoying your day too.

Take care~ Amy

Week in Review

2009-06-06T10:10:00.003-04:00

Hi everyone!

I've had a very busy week and not had much spare time. Hope everyone had a good week.

My week improved. The oven has been fixed and the motorcycle is currently in the shop and will be back home early next week. It was a minor problem and can be fixed fairly easily. Yea.

Unfortunately, we have not been unable to find a coffee press. The store should have some in soon.

I had 2 big exams this week and 6 tests and passed all of them. (sigh of relief) I also got my certification in life support. Yesterday, I received my second set of healthcare shots. OUCH! I felt like a truck hit me all day yesterday and am very sore and achy today. Tylenol will be in my near future.

I did try two new recipes this week that are definitely worth mentioning.

Shredded Beef au Jus (Crock Pot) from Taste of Home
1 boneless beef roast (approx 3 lbs)
2 cups water
2 t beef bouillon
1 1/2 t dried oregano
1 t garlic powder
1 t season salt
1/4 t dried, crushed rosemary
8 sandwich buns, split

~ Cut roast in half and place in a 4- or 5-qt. slow cooker. Combine the water, bouillon granules and seasonings; pour over the beef.
~ Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until meat is tender.
~ Remove beef; cool slightly. Meanwhile, skim fat from the cooking liquid.
~ Shred meat with two forks; return to the cooking liquid and heat through. Using a slotted spoon, place 1/2 cup on each bun. Serve with additional cooking liquid on the side. Yield: 8 servings.

I made no changes to the above recipe. We ate it for 3 meals, changing it slightly each meal. The last meal I made into a stromboli adding mushrooms and monterey jack cheese, thickening the au jus. Using a Pillsbury pizza crust for the dough.

The next recipe is from Healthy Cooking and is for flat bread. I did make changes to the stuffing ingredients. We used cubed pork and made gyros with greek seasoning and a homemade tzatziki sauce. I fixed them on the counter top grill instead of in a skillet.

http://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/Super-Flatbread-Wraps

Have a great weekend!
Amy

One of those days -

2009-06-01T09:59:00.006-04:00

Have you ever had one of those days? Well ours was yesterday.

#1 The day starts off with the coffee press cracking.

This household does not function without a coffee press. No way, not happening. We will be visiting the store today to purchase another one.

#2 The motorcycle begins smoking after only have it back a couple of months from having the engine upgraded. Brad was not a happy camper. He is going to call the repair man and have it checked out.

#3 The oven ailment decides to burn out as it is cooking dinner. *sigh*

This is a necessity in the house for one who loves to cook and we use the oven virtually every day. Have to see if we can get an ailment and do the repairs ourselves.

All is well other than that in Amy's world. I have my first big exam tomorrow and going to study for it a little later today.

Take care~ Amy

~ Random Thoughts ~

2009-05-31T10:20:00.002-04:00

Good morning ~

As I woke this morning the rain was pouring down. My first thought was oh no, not more rain. Then as I pondered on this I came to the realization that my flowers needed water and I was all nestled in bed... Sooo let it rain. I always find it very relaxing listening to the rain hitting the roof. I woke up a short time later to a beautiful partly cloudy day with dazzling sunshine and my flowers all perked up. While I walked Smokey this morning they greeted me with a wave in the breeze as we passed by. *smile*

I am sitting here eating my strawberry muffin and drinking my coffee thinking about our motorcycle trip to the Parkway yesterday. It was beautiful and we both enjoyed it a lot. With the exception of the bee that got up my shirt sleeve and stung me. I am sure the people following behind us on the Parkway thought I was trying to do some new backseat motorcycle dance. *lol* I got it out of my sleeve and Brad had to pull over and pull the stinger out of my arm. OUCH!

Have you ever thought "if you could have another house where you would like for it to be?" Well, I would want a house on the Blueridge Parkway and one at the Outer Banks. Two of our favorite places to visit. Mind you, I would not want to live either place permanently, but would enjoy having a get-away residence there. Where would you like a get-away residence?

Take care~
Amy

Saturday Morning

2009-05-30T09:48:00.004-04:00

Good morning everyone~

My apologies for being absent for a few days. I decided to take a bit of a computer break. After using it for extended periods of time I get burnt out and just want a technology free day or two.

There's not a lot going on here today. I woke up this morning and made some Strawberry Muffins using a Strawberry Bread recipe from Allrecipes.com (posted the link below). Our elderly neighbor brought us some strawberries from her farm and I used them in fruit salad and muffins. Very tasty with my morning coffee.

http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Strawberry-Bread/Detail.aspx

The only alterations I made was to half the recipe and make 12 muffins instead of a 2 loaves of bread.

We are going to ride the motorcycle today to the Blueridge Parkway for a relaxing scenic get away today.

Enjoy your day!
Amy :o)

Gray Wednesday

2009-05-27T10:10:00.002-04:00

Hello everyone~

We are expecting rain this entire week and it's a another dreary day. I don't really mind if my sinuses would quit acting up each time we have a cloudy day. *sigh*

I tried a new recipe Monday night for Parmesan Crusted Cube Steak. We were a little disappointed. While it was good it wasn't great and we like my orginal way of fixing them better. Basically, you dip the steak in water and then in a mixture of parm cheese and bread crumbs and fry them up in a skillet until done.

On our menu today is Slow Cooker Garlic Beef Stroganoff from Quick Cooking and salad. I have tweaked it a bit to make it a little healthier. I eliminated the oil and use cooking spray when I brown the beef and onion, adding some chopped sweet pepper (usually red, orange or yellow), minced celery and season the meat while it's browning with salt, pepper. I also use low fat cream cheese. This is one of our favorite meals and we usually eat off of it twice.

http://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/Garlic-Beef-Stroganoff

Have a good day~
Amy :o)

Mondays

2009-05-25T09:31:00.002-04:00

Good morning everyone~

Happy Memorial Day! What do you have planned for today? We really don't have any plans, possibly grill out later in the day if the weather holds. It has been raining and looks as if the rain will start again soon.

I plan on doing the domesticated stuff I did not get done yesterday. Brad decided he wanted to go to the flea market so off we went. I did not buy anything but enjoyed looking. I also have some NA1 reading to complete today too.

Planning on trying a new recipe tonight, I'll post on it tomorrow. Need to make some bread, muffins, desserts, cookies or something too.

Yesterday was my nieces birthday and I forgot to send a birthday card. OOops! I will send a belated e-card today.

Enjoy your day!
Amy :o)

Sunday

2009-05-24T11:41:00.005-04:00

Hello everyone~

Hope everyone is enjoying their holiday weekend. Yesterday Brad and I went and visited a friend that was involved in an accident a few weeks back. She is doing much better, thank goodness. We also had some errands to run and then came home to dinner and enjoy our evening together.

I have a busy day today all of my domestic duties need tending too (laundry, house chores, etc.) plus I have a lot of studying and homework to complete.

I tried a new crock pot recipe yesterday and we both claimed it a keeper. We served it with green beans and potatoes.

BBQ Pork Chops
__________________
6-8 center cut bone in chops
1 cup BBQ sauce
1/3 cup honey
1/2 to 1 cup onion sliced (I did not have any onion so I used dried minced onion, 1 TBSP)
Seasoned with garlic powder, salt and black pepper.

1-Combine honey and BBQ sauce in small bowl
2-Brown pork chops in skillet sprayed with Pam
3- Create one layer in crock sprinkle with onion, seasoning and pour 1/2 of sauce over chops
4- Create second layer in crock sprinkle with onion, seasoning and put remaining sauce over chops.
5- Cook on low for 8 hours. Ours cooked on high for 5 hours.

Have a good day~
Amy

TGIF!

2009-05-22T10:01:00.007-04:00

Thank goodness it's Friday!

I have missed blogging the last few days. But, as we all know life happens. :o) I had several tests this week in school and passed all of them. YEA for me!

Honestly, admitting that I struggled with my last lab test yesterday (we had 7 of them yesterday). Collecting bio hazard waste just about did me in. After taking a few deep breaths and some encouragement from my instructor and my lab partner I got it. Whew!

Don't you just hate it when your brain just goes totally blank...
You're left there standing with this expression on your face (thankfully my face was covered by a surgical mask) going OH NO my brain has decided to burp at the most inopportune time!

I have 5 lab tests next Tuesday and have informed Brad that he is going to be my patient. *evil laugh* I am going to be his saviour and "Perform relief from choking 3 different ways", "Feed him since he is unable to feed himself", " Assist him with dining", "Serve him supplementary nourishment", and last but not least "Provide fresh drinking water". I hope this does not spoil him. ;) Oh wait we are both already spoiled.

Have a great Friday!
Amy

Tired Tuesday-

2009-05-19T17:18:00.003-04:00

Hello everyone~

Up and early this morning to get ready to begin class this week. Class was lots of fun as we practiced in the labs learning various techniques. We laughed and had a good time.

I got home and was worn out. I did not sleep well last night, after lunch I sat down on the sofa and just about fell asleep. Brad encouraged me to go take a nap. Needless to say it did not take much prodding. :o) Sleeping for 1 1/2 hours helped out. Brad left the house to go ride his motorcycle and enjoy the sunny day.

I had my first test on recording on a medical form today and missed one item by not initialing the paper. Ooops. Otherwise it was in good shape.

For dinner last night we had homemade pizza. I make the crusts in the bread machine and add whatever toppings I have available. Last night I made one crust for dinner, par-baked the second one and froze it for later use.

I am off to study medical terms.

Have a good day~
Amy

Monday -

2009-05-18T11:38:00.004-04:00

Hello everyone~

Hope you had a wonderful weekend. We took it easy both days and were glad for the rest. I concentrated on studying and getting homework completed.

Smokey enjoyed having both mama and papa home to harass. He was was the little wild man both days. lol

We tried a very different recipe last night for dinner and both enjoyed it. It was Pumpkin & Sausage Penne from Cooking for 2. I tweaked it a tad so I could use ingredients I had on hand and not have to make a trip to the store. I used turkey Italian sausage, added mushrooms and 1 tbls of brown sugar at the end.

http://www.tasteofhome.com/Recipes/Pumpkin-and-Sausage-Penne

Well, it's time to get going and charge full force into this busy week. :o)

Have a good day~ Amy

Rainy Days

2009-05-17T10:42:00.003-04:00

Hello-

It's rainy and overcast here today. Most of the time these days do not bother me too much. However, I have been troubled with a sinus headache this entire week and this dreary weather seems to intensify my sinus issues. We have also had a lot of rain in the past week. I look forward to a bright sunshiny day soon.

Brad and I watched the Spiderwick Chronicles last night and enjoyed it a lot. I know, I know it's a children's movie but we are both big kids anyway. :o) It was about fairies, goblins and all things in fantasy world.

Smokey was relentless with his wanting to play fetch last night. Brad ended up having to place "the toy" in time out. For those of you wondering what "the toy" is: it is a round furry ball that has nubs that protrude off of it. Smokey absolutely loves "the toy". *lol* It's the first toy he got when he arrived at his new home and it has been love at first site ever since.

I will be spending my day studying and watching my NA1 DVDs on procedures that I am to be tested on this week. At this point dinner is up in the air, I usually have something planned the night before and layed out to thaw. But I fell asleep on the sofa last night, only to be roused by Smokey in my lap wanting to wrestle. *smile*

Have a good day...
Amy

Saturday

2009-05-16T09:57:00.002-04:00

Hello-

It's a overcast Saturday here as I sit and drink my coffee. The past two days I have been busy with homework, making medical terminology flash cards and cleaning house.

I did find some down time to peruse my Taste of Home magazines and locate some new recipes to try. I like to try 2-3 new recipes a week if possible. Last night I made Zucchini Banana Bread from Taste of Home, roasted pork loin and baked rice. The link to the bread recipe is listed below. The only change I made was making into 12 muffins instead of mini loaves. It was very good and will be made again.

http://www.tasteofhome.com/Recipes/Zucchini-Banana-Bread

Smokey was in ornery form last night while I made out my flash cards. He delighted in jumping in my lap while I was trying to write so I would wrestle with him or play our rousing game of fetch that he loves so much.

Have a great Saturday!
Amy

Happy Wednesday...

2009-05-13T17:43:00.005-04:00

Happy Wednesday everyone!

I hope everyone is having a great day. We've made it to Wednesday. I hope everyone enjoys the recipe listed below.

Last night I made stuffed zucchini for dinner with steamed corn on the cob. The zucchini recipe is quite easy and fixed in microwave and is listed below.

Stuffed Zucchini

4 medium zucchini
1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup chopped onion
1 egg
3/4 cup marinara or spaghetti sauce
1 small can of mushrooms
1/4 cup chopped sweet pepper
1/4 cup seasoned bread crumbs
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1 cup (4 ounces) shredded Monterey Jack, mozzarella or colby jack cheese, divided
Additional marinara or spaghetti sauce

Directions: Cut zucchini in half lengthwise; cut a thin slice from the bottom of each with a sharp knife to allow zucchini to sit flat. Scoop out pulp, leaving 1/4-in. shells.

Place shells in an ungreased microwave-safe dish.

Meanwhile, in a large skillet, cook beef, onion, pepper and mushrooms over medium heat until meat is no longer pink; drain. Remove from the heat; stir in the egg, marinara sauce, bread crumbs, salt, pepper and 1/2 cup cheese.

Spoon about 1/4 cup into each shell. Microwave, uncovered, on high for 4 minutes. Sprinkle with remaining cheese. Microwave 3-4 minutes longer or until a thermometer inserted into filling reads 160° and zucchini are tender.

Serve with additional marinara sauce. Yield: 4 servings.

I am off to complete my homework and study for class tomorrow. Have a good evening.

Amy

Back to school ...

2009-05-12T13:34:00.002-04:00

Hello everyone:

Today was day one of my Nursing Assistant I class. It was 4 hours long and let's just say that I am a bit overwhelmed at the moment and trying to absorb tons of information. I signed my name a total of 27 times during those 4 hours. My professor is wonderful and keeps things entertaining. There are a total of 20 in the class.

For dinner last night I took a frozen chicken carcass fixed a few weeks ago in the slow cooker and made a chicken stew with herbed dumplings. Using up several odds and ends that were left and needed to be used. (Chicken carcass, butter beans, carrots, celery, onion, fresh spinach and green peas, seasoning to taste.) For dessert I made the Miniature Peanut Butter Cheesecakes from Cooking for 2. They turned out quite tasty and enjoyed by both of us. (See link below.)

http://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/Miniature-Peanut-Butter-Cheesecakes

On the menu for tonight is stuffed zucchini. I'll post the recipe tomorrow.

Have a wonderful day,
Amy

My first post...

2009-05-11T11:35:00.006-04:00

Hello ~

Welcome to Puppy Tufts. Please join me as I embark on a journey in the world of blogging. Along the way sharing my puppy antics, recipes and thoughts.

I am sure you are wondering what exactly are Puppy Tufts. I have a Pekingese named Smokey Joe and he loves to leave little tufts of fur all over the house. (smile) We call them puppy tufts and during shedding times it can be quite a task to keep them all cleaned up.

Once again welcome and have a great day!
Amy

Puppy Tufts

Menu Plan 1/8/12-1/14/12

Menu Plan 1/1-1/7

Reflections of 2011

Menu Plan 12/11-12/17

Holiday Time

Menu Plan 12/4-12/10

Post Thanksgiving Weekend ~

Freezer Cooking

Menu Plan 10/30-11/5

Menu Plan 10/15-10/21

Post Week Reflection

Menu Plan Week 10/10-10/15

Freezer Cooking Day

Weekly CSA Box 10/4/11

Weekly Menu 10/3/11

Life Journeys

Movies, Cars and Such...

Happy Birthday to Me!

Happy New Year

Happy Homemaker Monday

Happy Homemaker Monday

Slow Cooker Thursday

Cheese Danish Anyone

Time for Chili~

Reminiscing

Happy Monday ~

Happy Homemaker Monday ~

Please pardon me while I rant...

Stuffed Pork Tenderlion

Happy Homemaker Monday

Happy Homemaker Monday

Slow Cooker Thursday

Day Trippin'

Happy Homemaker Monday

Baking Day Update

Critter Bites~

Mondays

Day Trippin'

Light Banana Bread

Slow Cooker Thursday

Rainy Days -

Homemade Bagels... Oh My!

Monday morning -

Good morning, won't you join me...

Slow Cooking Thursday

Life Happens~

Monday Menu Plan

Sundays

Saturday

Friday

Slow Cooker Thursday

Monday ~

Smokey Joe

Chocolate Cures Everything *smile*

Saturday Morning -

Happy Wednesday

Monday

Lazy Day Sunday

Week in Review

One of those days -

~ Random Thoughts ~

Saturday Morning

Gray Wednesday

Mondays

Sunday

TGIF!

Tired Tuesday-

Monday -

Rainy Days

Saturday

Happy Wednesday...

Back to school ...

My first post...

Chocolate Cures Everything smile