All Things Tina Beth

Finished Last Light

2009-12-01T14:44:00.000-08:00

This holiday weekend I finished Last Light by Terri Blackstock. A friend recommended the series, and although I enjoyed the storyline, it was definitely a Christian novel with the plot about giving all of your faith to God in every situation.

Finished Catching Fire

2009-11-27T15:56:00.000-08:00

On Wednesday I finished "Catching Fire". The sequel to The Hunger Games. Once again, I wasn't disappointed!! Great book, and I'm looking forward to the sequel. Rumor has it online that there will be a movie about The Hunger Games.

Slow Cooker Ham and Potatoes

2009-11-20T22:32:00.000-08:00

This afternoon I was searching my pantry for something to make for dinner and came up with enough ingredients to create a great meal!!!! Thought I'd share the recipe since the family LOVED it!!!

Slow Cooker Ham and Potatoes

2 lbs. Frozen Hash browns

2 lbs. Cubed Ham

10 slices thick cut bacon, cooked and diced

1 sweet onion (Walla Walla or Sweet Mayan) diced

2 packages McCormick's dry country style gravy mix

2 cans Cream of Mushroom Soup

2 Cups water

Shredded Cheddar Cheese for topping

Combine hash browns (still frozen), bacon, ham and onion. Pour into a lightly greased slow cooker. In a bowl, mix gravy mix, water, Cream of mushroom soup with whisk. Pour over the top of the potato ham mixture. Cook on High 4 hours, or low 8-10 hours. Serve with shredded cheddar cheese.

Finished The Whistling Season

2009-11-20T22:29:00.000-08:00

My book club chose The Whistling Season as the book of the month. Unfortunately I felt the book was boring....nothing exciting...nothing to keep my attention....etc. The teachers in my book club enjoyed it because one of the main characters is a teacher and very successful in his method of teaching. Unfortunately I couldn't relate to him...great guy, lucky to be so knowledgeable...but alas BORING.

Finished reading The Hunger Games

2009-11-20T22:27:00.000-08:00

Last week I finished reading "The Hunger Games" by Suzanne Collins. The book is fantastic and is surely going to follow in the Twilight Series footsteps. It follows the story of a country who is divided into "districts" and each year, a boy and girl are each chosen by lottery to compete (til death) in the "Hunger Games". The story isn't focused on gore an violence, but told from the perspective on District 12's member Katniss. Such a great book, I immediately started on the sequel "Catching Fire".

Crazy for the Storm

2009-10-20T21:03:00.000-07:00

On Sunday I finished Crazy for the Storm by Norman Ollestad. I first saw this book at a Starbucks in Downtown Portland and after reading that it was a story about a boy, who at age 11, was the lone survivor of a plane crash, new I wanted to read it.

The book didn't disappoint.....very much a tribute to Norman's father, you get to know the boy and the man, and reason he was able to survive the 9 hour descent down the the mountain in a blizzard on his own. I'd definitely recommend the book.

My meatloaf recipe!

2009-10-15T08:42:00.000-07:00

The gray clouds and wind came in last night and I decided to create a meatloaf recipe!!! Made it, and it was voted the BEST MEATLOAF EVER by the family. Thought I'd share!!!

1 lb. extra lean ground beef

1 package ground pork (about 1 pound)

1 package Italian sausage (about 1 pound)

2 packages ranch salad seasoning

3 cloves of garlic pressed

2 eggs

about 1 1/2 cups Italian bread crumbs

1/2 a sweet onion diced

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

enough milk to make it moist

Combined all of the above ingredients. Topped with Honey Chipotle BBQ sauce. Made one huge meat loaf that fit in a 13x9 casserole. Baked for 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Columbine by David Cullen

2009-10-11T23:06:00.000-07:00

After a month, I finally finished the book "Columbine" by David Cullen. I had a tough time reading this book...part of the reason is because I lived in the school district of Thurston High School in Springfield, Or at the time of the school shooting there. I had friends with children at the high school, and first hand know the fear and anxiety that was faced by parents that day.

With that said, I also know how wrong the media can portray an event. I was home watching CNN when they were announcing "a school shooting on the Oregon coast" --- WHAT???? The coast is over an hour away....

Anyway, Columbine is very interesting. I remember the Columbine shooting.....the coverage about the shooters being bullied by jocks.....about them being part of the "trench coat mafia"....the news coverage of the boy hanging out the window and police getting him down.

The book gives all the facts....everything that actually happened. You get to know the killers on a personal level, how they planned the attack and why, and how the medias new coverage was SO SO wrong.

My husband works with a woman that was a student at Columbine that day. She has told him the story about running to safety and the dead bodies. I would definitely suggest the book to people. Getting the correct information, staying informed is always good. Just be prepared, if you are an empathetic reader....this is a tough one.

Apparently I'm an Organized, Self-Knowing Extrovert

2009-09-25T08:27:00.001-07:00

I took the 43 Things Personality Quiz and found out I'm an

Organized Self-Knowing Extrovert

Well said.......

2009-09-22T17:14:00.000-07:00

Finished "Home Safe: A novel"

2009-09-21T13:44:00.000-07:00

I finished the book "home safe a novel" last night and am glad it is FINALLY over. When I'd rather weed the garden or watch football, that tells you how much the book held my attention. Story was slow going. Love the story line idea, just wasn't anything to keep my interest.

Finished "House and Home"

2009-09-13T21:12:00.000-07:00

This weekend I read "House and Home" by Kathleen McCleary. When I started the book I was thrilled that the author used Portland, OR as the location of the story and was very accurate in referring to many of the places we frequent. Loved the first couple of chapters and enjoyed the ending. The middle was a bunch of divorce drama that I found rather boring. Guess I couldn't relate to it at all, so it didn't hold my interest.

In honor of all lives changed 8 years ago today.....

2009-09-11T19:14:00.000-07:00

The year that follows

2009-09-07T20:07:00.000-07:00

This evening I finished the book "The Year That Follows" by Scott Lasser. It is a story about a man in his 80s and how his life is spent after the 9/11 attacks. Very good, easy read (took me a day and a half), about the circle of life.

Hotel on the corner of bitter and sweet

2009-09-05T10:21:00.000-07:00

I finished reading "The Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet" by Jamie Ford this morning and I have to say it is one of the best books I've ever read. The story takes place in the 1940s in Seattle during the Japanese internment. When I read the description of the book on the cover, I didn't think I'd enjoy the book, much, however I learned quickly the cover description doesn't do the book any justice. I don't want to give away anything in the book, but will just say it is a great story of the times, and a wonderful love story as well!

Another good read.....

2009-08-27T22:25:00.000-07:00

I forgot all about reading this book this past month!! Great read, would make a great vacation novel. I really enjoyed it and finished it in just a few short days!!!

It is a slow going month for reading.....

2009-08-27T21:39:00.000-07:00

Well, I have to say that July was a slow month for reading. Not only were we on vacation a TON, but I had several books with me that just were not worth finishing. I used to finish each and every book I started, and then decided to adopt my mother-in-law's theory "that there are just TOO many books out there worth reading" and if I can't get into the book by the time I'm 1/3 of the way through, well...let's just say I decide I've given it as much of my spare time as I have available.

The title caught my eye on this one, and some magazine I read raved about how funny this book was. I started it, and well, being as I DO NOT define my life on what I wear (note here...I am fashionably challenged and I'm okay with that) I only made it through the first 5 chapters and called it quits.

Next on my night stand was "Autobiography of a Fat Bride". Well, it sounded funny, but ended up being more like a sad reality story of a low income gal that also lacked brains, so that went back to the library after the first two chapters.

My next attempt was my book club's book selection "The Well and the Mine". I was halfway through the book, when the host changed the date to a day I was going to be on vacation. With that said, and the book depressing and not something I cared to continue reading, back to the library this one went as well.

Smoke Screen was my $5 book of choice from the local department store. I was shopping for last minute items before we headed to the beach and decided this one may be interesting. Sure enough it held my attention all through the beach, the tree house, the redwoods, and finally I finished it at home. Great suspense story about a fireman and news reporter that were framed for murder. I would recommend it as a great vacation read!!!

Resilience by Elizabeth Edwards I finished today while waiting at the dentist's office. It is Elizabeth Edwards latest book about the trials of losing her 16 year old child, her husband's infidelity and her choice to stay with him, her diagnosis of breast cancer, and now her terminal diagnosis. Although I can't say this is a cheery book to read, it definitely shows what a strong woman she is after bearing so many hard life circumstances.

Finished "The Girls from Ames"

2009-07-07T10:13:00.003-07:00

I just finished "The Girls from Ames" and LOVED the book. It is a true story about 11 women, and how their friendships have lasted 44 years (since childhood). I have to say I cried, and laughed out loud throughout the book and would definitely recommend it!

Finished "Whistling in the Dark"

2009-06-09T14:31:00.002-07:00

After a slow start, I really enjoyed this book that was our book club selection for the month of June! The story line picked up and there was a bit of a mystery involved (although I figured it out right away, once the character was introduced).

Finished "One Thousand White Women"

2009-05-30T20:42:00.002-07:00

This month's book club pick was 1000 White Women by Jim Fergus. I loved it, loved the story, got through the depressing/violent parts because they were not graphic, and I really liked the story line. Based on a true incident, when an Indian chief went to a President in the 1800s asking to trade 1000 horses for 1000 white women, so they women would have Indian babies and then be brought into the white world bridging the gap. In reality, the chief was told no, but this book is written as if that actually transpired and is told through a journal kept by "May Dodd".

Finished "Handle with Care"

2009-05-26T00:01:00.002-07:00

I've been a Jodi Picoult fan for years, so when her latest book, "Handle with Care" came out I bumped all my other books aside to read her latest novel. What a disappointment. Depressing, depressing, depressing...then, just when you think she can't add any more depressing situations/scenarios, she comes up with something else to make the novel even more dreadful. Only thing I am happy about, is that I've finished it and can move on to the other books in my pile!

Finished "Look Me In The Eye"

2009-05-10T22:35:00.003-07:00

Last Wednesday I finished the book "Look Me In The Eye" which was a book my book club selected. I enjoyed the book, which is a memoir of a gentleman that was diagnosed in his 40s with Asperger's Syndrome (a high functioning form of autism). It gave great insight into how his VERY LOGICAL thought process works, with NO basis of emotional influence. His lack of understanding why others behave in manners related to emotion is very much do to not being able to relate. I must say I wish I would have read his brother's memoir "Running with Scissors" first, so I could have had an understanding of how dysfunctional his parents were. He mentions in the beginning of the book that his mom is mentally ill -- I was thinking mild. Much later in the books he describes his mom having a conversation with him while smoking, then her eating cigarette butts....I had to change my whole "mentally ill" concept to "institutionally mentally ill". I plan to read his brother's memoir soon!

Finished Sense and Sensibility

2009-04-21T15:03:00.002-07:00

It took me a while to get used to the writing style of Sense and Sensibility, but once I did I was hooked. Love the story, loved the book, loved the time period....

Finished "The Idiot Girls' Action- Adventure Club"

2009-04-07T21:28:00.003-07:00

With two hours to spare while watching baseball practice I finished "The Idiot Girls' Action-Adventure Club". Some of the stories were pretty funny, although, I'm hoping that most were written with extreme sarcasm and her life truly isn't that of a Wal-Mart mentality. I must say I am SO glad I couldn't relate.

Finished "Undress Me in the Temple of Heaven"

2009-04-05T15:27:00.003-07:00

Last night I finished "Undress me in the temple of heaven". It is a memoir about 2 gals that decide to travel the world, backpacking. They start off in China in 1986 (when it first opened its borders to Westerners). I thought the book started off pretty slow, and wasn't sure I was going to like it, but halfway through I couldn't put it down, when one of the gals was either with the CIA or going schizophrenic...wasn't sure which. Anyway, lots of great travel stories...note to self, I'll stick with the tourist sites/hotels if I ever visit Asia.

Finished "No Opportunity Wasted"

2009-03-28T18:00:00.003-07:00

I finished "NOW" by Phil Keoghan today and loved it. Who new the host of The Amazing Race was such an adventurous guy? The book is filled with stories of his own adventures, along with many others fulfilling their dreams. Each chapter gives you a topic, on different goals to set for yourself, and helps you create a life list of various adventures!

Finished The Book Borrower

2009-03-27T21:30:00.003-07:00

It is a day of celebration today because I finally finished "The Book Borrower" by Alice Mattison. This was the selection of my book club and from the description of the book, it sounded interesting. Unfortunately the conversations between the two main characters at first had me believing they were mentally challenged at best. Then there was the issue of "too much information" with their sexual thoughts, comments, activities. Lets just say I couldn't wait to finish the book so I could read something I would enjoy.

My favorite Mexican Hot Cocoa recipe

2009-03-22T17:31:00.001-07:00

I got this recipe from Southern Living Magazine and it is absolutely the best!

Super rich and thick Mexican Hot Cocoa

2 tsp cornstarch
4 cups milk, divided
2 dark chocolate bars (at least 70% cacao) chopped
1/3 cup honey
1 tsp. vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
1 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp ancho chili powder

1. Whisk together cornstarch and 1/2 cup milk until smooth. Set aside.

2. Cook remaining 3 1/2 cups milk in a large, non aluminum saucepan over medium heat until bubbles appear around edge of saucepan (about 4 minutes, do not boil). Whisk in remaining ingredients (except milk/cornstarch mixture) until well blended and smooth. Whisk in milk/cornstarch mixture.

3. Bring milk mixture to a light boil, whisking frequently (about 4 minutes). Remove from heat. Let cool slightly. (Mixture will thicken as it cools).

Finished I Am Potential

2009-03-17T22:30:00.002-07:00

I've been reading this book off and on for the last couple of months and finally finished it today. I pretty much knew everything in the book about Patrick Henry Hughes from interviews in the media and seeing their family on Extreme Home Makeover.
I have to say I was disappointed to see how much of a hidden hero the mother of this family is, and out of the spotlight she seems to be, when she surely has to be picking up a lot of slack due to the attention loving father constantly after his 15 minutes of fame at his son's side. Just my personal point of view.

Finished Queen of the Road

2009-03-14T11:11:00.002-07:00

Last night I finished our book club book choice "Queen of the Road". It is a true story of a childless psychiatrist couple that go on the road for a year in an RV and travel the US. I have to say in the first 40 pages, my only thought was "What an egocentric, superficial....." (you get the point) and didn't want to spend any more time with the main character (aka the author). However, once I realized that the author is EXTREMELY sarcastic, and she wasn't being as literal as I thought I truly enjoyed the story. Each chapter starts with a martini/mixed drink recipe, which I definitely intend to try in the future!

Finished Breaking Dawn

2009-03-10T20:57:00.003-07:00

Well, I finally got around to finishing Breaking Dawn yesterday. I'm sure hoping Stephenie Meyer comes up with another book soon. I'm going to miss Bella and Edward.

Finished Eclipse

2009-02-21T09:58:00.001-08:00

Brandon, Tori and I finished Eclipse this week! We confess, we are addicted to the series!!! Although Tori and I can't stand Jacob Black, on the other hand Brandon seems to like the competition and doens't understand why "all the girls can't stand him". On to Breaking Dawn....it is going to be a GREAT weekend!!!!

Finished Letters to my daughter

2009-02-05T20:07:00.002-08:00

I finished Letters to my Daughter by Maya Angelou today. I found her views interesting, and loved her stories. My favorites were the one about walking across an oriental rug, and another about drinking cockroaches in her coffee. Having been raised in the Pacific Northwest, I can't relate to any of her stories of the south.

Finished New Moon

2009-02-05T14:50:00.001-08:00

Last night I finished New Moon. It is the second book of the Twilight series by Stephanie Meyer. Who knew I'd love books about Vampires and Werewolves? I've ordered Eclipse and Breaking Dawn from Amazon. I can't wait!!!

Couldn't help but laught at this.....

2009-01-23T10:29:00.002-08:00

Good Bye President Bush

2009-01-20T11:01:00.001-08:00

The picture pretty much sums up the morals and character of President Bush!
Good riddance President Bush...your stay was 8 years too long.

Finished Twilight!

2009-01-11T14:49:00.002-08:00

I finished Twilight late last night! I loved the book, loved that the author kept the innocence of the main character. I am ready to start the sequel and am looking forward to a brunch with friends as soon as we all finish New Moon. I've passed the book on to Tori and she is loving the book as well!

Finished The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society

2009-01-05T16:13:00.001-08:00

On Sunday I finished The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society and it is by far, my all time favorite book! Great story, Great characters, Great writing....I was so sad it came to an end.

Finished The History of Love

2008-12-30T20:28:00.002-08:00

It took me WEEKS but I finally finished our book club's January selection "The History of Love" by Nicole Krauss. The fact that it took me so long says a lot. The first chapter I LOVED the book. Loved the character Leo Gursky (an elderly man who does obnoxious things to ensure someone sees him each day in case he dies that day). Unfortunately the author's style of writing made it difficult to know when they were introducing characters (finally figured that out about chapter 6) and a lot of the book was slow going and as far as I'm concerned "fluff" to make the book longer. I did stick with it because it was a book club selection and I have to say I loved the ending. Definitely not a favorite though.

2008-12-12T09:25:00.002-08:00

I just finished "How Starbucks Saved my Life" and LOVED it. It is non-fiction and the author tells stories of growing up privileged. He had the opportunity to meet many famous people, living the American dream and then losing it all and by chance, being offered a job at Starbucks.

The story shows proof that money doesn't buy happiness.

A lot of the book shares Starbucks business plan....and the requirement to always show respect. Making the "guests" feel welcome in the store, etc. I have to say what is written in the book about the "partners" (starbucks employees) going out of their way to know their customers drinks and to take care of them was really highlighted throughout the book.

In fact, just a week ago my sister-in-law and I met up at Starbucks in Wilsonville. I had brought my 5 year old nephew a Lego advent calendar and while we visited, he was attempting to put together one of the little kits. He dropped some of the itty bitty Lego pieces and while my sister-in-law and I were looking for them under the couches an employee walked up and asked what we'd lost. He then got on HIS hands and knees and announced that his "hawk eyes" had found the tiny piece we were missing...way underneath the couch and gave it back to my nephew. Talk about great customer service!!!

The Shack

2008-12-06T22:07:00.002-08:00

I finished The Shack last week! I have to say the book started off and had my attention and then took a turn that I didn't expect at all. The main character meets God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit and through conversations receives answers to many of his questions about why bad things happen, etc.

Several reviews list the book as "life altering" "life changing" among other rave reviews. I have to say I did enjoy it. It gave some very complex theological teachings in layman's terms. However, life altering/changing. Not so much. Maybe if I was not of Christian faith or did not have an understanding of how the Holy trinity worked I would have a different opinion.

Still, I rated it 5 stars and would recommend it to friends and family.

Every woman should.....

2008-12-01T13:06:00.001-08:00

By MAYA ANGELOU

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE ...
enough money within her control to move out
and rent a place of her own,
even if she never wants to or needs to...

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE ...
something perfect to wear if the employer, or date of her dreams
wants to see her in an hour...

A WOMAN SHOULD
HAVE .
a youth she's content to leave behind....

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE .
a past juicy enough that she's looking forward

to retelling it in her old age....

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE ...
a set of screwdrivers, a cordless drill, and... a black lace bra...

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE .
one friend who always makes her laugh.. and one who lets her cry...

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE ...
a good piece of furniture not previously owned by anyone else in her family...

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE ..
eight matching plates, wine glasses with stems,
and a recipe for a meal,
that will make her guests feel honored...

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE
a feeling of control over her destiny..

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD
KNOW...
how to fall in love without losing herself..

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW...
how to quit a job,
break up with a lover,
and confront a friend,
without ruining the friendship...

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW...
when to try harder... and WHEN TO WALK AWAY...

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW...
that she can't change the length of her calves,
the width of her hips, or the nature of her parents..

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW...
that her childhood may not have been perfect... but it's over...

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW...
what she would and wouldn't do... for love or more...

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW....
how to live alone... even if she doesn't like it...

EVERY
WOMAN SHOULD KNOW.. .
whom she can trust,
whom she can't,
and why she shouldn't take it personally...

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW...
where to go...
be it to her best friend's kitchen table..
or a charming Inn in the woods....
when her soul needs soothing...

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW..
What she can and can't accomplish in a day...
a month... and a year...

REMEMBER:

GOOD FRIENDS ARE LIKE STARS.

YOU DON'T ALWAYS SEE THEM,

BUT YOU ALWAYS KNOW THEY ARE
THERE!!!!!!

Be yourself...everyone else is
already
taken.

Christmas is around the corner!

2008-11-16T21:30:00.002-08:00

I got crafty today and made a new Christmas picture!

Kate Jacob's Comfort Food

2008-11-15T22:04:00.002-08:00

Well, here is a book I was excited about. I'd heard good things (mostly) about Kate Jacob's book "The Friday Night Knitting Club" and when I came across her book "Comfort Food" I had to read it. The story's main character has a show on Food TV which, being a "foodie" as some would call it, I watch constantly. All of the real life Food TV celebrities are noted in the book and there is mention of Oregon...so I was excited to get started.
Well, I started.........BORING. I tried and tried and BORING. This is the first book ever that I will not finish ......which for anyone that knows me says a lot because even if I hate a book I finish it (optimistically hoping it will get better). The fact that I watch the cooking channel, know who all the characters are (since they are celebrity chefs) and have a knowledge of cooking means I should have found at least something redeeming about this novel in the first 100 pages. All I found was a whole lot of boring. I must say I'm disappointed.

The good news is "The Shack" arrived on Thursday and the author is from Oregon and I have not yet heard a poor review, there is hope that I will finish this one, and do so quickly!

My bloghopping journey

2008-11-15T11:24:00.002-08:00

I went to the BBAW site to choose my first link:

1. I started off with the link "Between Sundays" and read several posts and book reviews that were posted on the site. I left a comment under the post about Barnes and Noble.

2. From there I went to "Confessions of a Blonde Writer", where I found one post about the bloggers choice to "vote positive". I'm hoping she found herself able to vote for someone!

3. I linked to Celine's Dreams and commented on her political post (which was very very similiar to the site #2 that I visited. Not one to read erotic novels I quickly scanned my link choices.

4. My choices for a link were few, and I ended up on the Silver Expressions blog. Outside my comfort zone I scanned the first post and was happy to find several links that would hopefully take me to something more domestic/crafty or simply not based on erotica I left without posting a comment.

5. I link choice was Rusty's Ramblings which I thought would end up a safe bet when I saw the latest post was a Praline Tart recipe. The links available were once again erotica based and so I scanned the posts in hopes of changing my course in content.

6. I ended up at Blogthings-Are you a paranoid schizophrenic . I went through the list and am happy to report I am not a paranoid schizophrenic. Phew!!!

7. From there I went to Blogthings -Newest Quizzes link, and opted for the quiz "What board game are you?" My results

What Board Game Are You?

You Are Chinese Checkers

You live a hyper, fast paced life. You rarely ever slow down.
You are good at juggling many things at once. You are the ultimate multi-tasker.

You enjoy being in a group - in fact the bigger the group, the better.
You are an enthusiastic competitor, and you can be a little ruthless when you play games.

Actually seems pretty correct in that assumption, although I never would have chosen myself as a chinese checker game...I'd be more of a scrabble/pictionary gal..but what the heck.

8. From there I chose the Blogthings: Random Quiz link and it decided to see if I am extremely sensitive. My results;

Your Sensitivity Score: 26%

In general, you don't let your senses overwhelm you.
You're pretty stoic, and you're good at blocking out what's going on around you.
However, you are still sensitive enough to enjoy all the beautiful things in the world!

9. With 2 more links to hit, I'm not finding one to get off this site, which is fine with me. So, my next link was Blogthings-How Redneck are you? where the questions had me laughing out loud. If you are in need of a good laugh, click the link above. My results;

How Redneck Are You?

You Are 5% Redneck

I'll slap you so hard, your clothes will be outta style.
You ain't no redneck - you're all Yankee!

Apparenlty I get 5% because I have actually gone hunting...although I don't know if it counts because I never shot my gun and basically just sat in the truck looking pretty the whole time we were on the mountain.

10. Being the foodie that I am, I decided my last link would be Blogthings What Spice Are you?
My results;

You Are Cayenne Pepper

You are very over the top and a bit overwhelming.
You have a fiery personality, and you can give anyone a good jolt.
You can easily take things up a couple notches, no matter what crowd you're running with.

YIKES...overwhelming...not sure that is a good thing!

Bloghopping Challenge

2008-11-15T11:12:00.002-08:00

I was reading my cousin's blog and she posted a bloghopping challenge. So, I am going to try it. Here is how it works:

Starting here, find a linked blog that you’ve never been to before. It does not have to be book-related.

Go to the blog you’ve chosen and browse through the posts until you find something interesting. Leave a comment. Mention where you found the link. Mention of this challenge is optional.

Using the links in THAT blog, repeat. If you find yourself somewhere that does not have any new-to-you links, go back to the BBAW list. Be sure to leave a comment in each location, mentioning where you found their site linked.

Repeat until you have visited 10 new blogs.

Write a post on your blog showing your bloghopping trail. Content is up to you; you can highlight your favorites, critique the sites or just post the list of 10. I recommend you open up a Word document (or whatever you use) and list out the URLs as you go. It’s really REALLY easy to get distracted doing this and lose track of where you were.

Finished Alice's Tulips

2008-11-08T16:15:00.002-08:00

I finished Alice's Tulips today and have to say although I enjoyed it, I didn't find it to be a page turner. It is a story told through letters from Alice, living in the late 1800s, to her sister. There were several facts throughout the book about quilting and how they were made and patterns created which were interesting.

The Lord's Prayer for women

2008-11-03T22:04:00.000-08:00

Now I lay me down to sleep
I pray the Lord my shape to keep.
Please no wrinkles, Please no bags
And please lift my butt before it sags.
Please no age spots, Please no gray
And as for my belly, Please take it away.
Please keep me healthy, Please keep me young,
And thank you Dear Lord, For all that you've done.

Happy Halloween

2008-10-31T09:18:00.001-07:00

MyHotComments

"Grace" -- a must read!!!

2008-10-28T17:52:00.003-07:00

I finished "Grace - A Novel" by Richard Paul Evans (author of The Christmas Box) and I must say that it is now a favorite. Great story.....great quotes.....great meaning. I'll definitely be purchasing a few copies for Christmas gifts this year!

Shout Down the Moon

2008-10-25T21:34:00.001-07:00

This book is about a singer that travels the country with a jazz band going to gigs and her very troubled past. Good story, but once again, nothing I can relate to. If this is anywhere accurate to what life is life on the road.........how depressing.

The Lucky One by Nicholas Sparks

2008-10-20T18:19:00.004-07:00

I just finished Nicholas Spark's newest novel The Lucky One and LOVED it. Great story line, great characters, great writing!!!

Holiday crafting!

2008-10-11T19:04:00.000-07:00

Glad this book is finished!

2008-10-10T08:35:00.002-07:00

I have to say I was a Lisa Tucker fan until I read this book. It would make a great Oprah book club book...tons of depressing situations...no feel good moments and nothing I could relate to in the least. Disappointed to say the least.

Finished a mystery

2008-10-03T08:27:00.001-07:00

I have to say I found this book very predictable from the start. Still gave me nightmares though.

The Prayer Chest

2008-09-26T10:08:00.002-07:00

I finished The Prayer Chest! It was a good reminder on keeping your faith during trying times.

Finished "Escape"

2008-09-20T22:21:00.003-07:00

It took me a week, but I finished Escape!!! My Aunt Susan told me about this book and I had a hard time putting it down. I always wondered how the polygamists live and their lives are far more difficult and horribly creepy than I could have ever imagined. The book is definitely a "must read" for everyone.

Finished "Plenty"

2008-09-12T12:34:00.004-07:00

I finally finished the book "Plenty" by Alisa Smith and J. B. Mackinnon. My cousin suggested the book and I found it to be very interesting. First, because the authors are from the Pacific Northwest. Second, because they committed for 1 FULL YEAR to not eat anything that did not grow within 100 miles from their home (with a few exceptions -- including their Oregon Salt!)

A Day to Remember

2008-09-11T09:06:00.000-07:00

MyHotComments

Honey Do Clipboard

2008-09-10T09:07:00.001-07:00

I went to my friend Lisa's last night and made a "Honey Do" clipboard! Hoping if I have a specified clipboard to hold a list of "Honey Dos" they will get done!

Excellent Hawaiin Rolls Recipe

2008-09-03T18:43:00.002-07:00

First I have to say I have never been to Hawaii, so I don't know if these actually taste authentic, but they are OH SO GOOD!!!! It will take 3 hours from start to finish, but it is worth the time!

Hawaiin Rolls

INGREDIENTS
1 1/2 cups warm water (110 degrees F/45 degrees C)
1 egg
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon lemon extract
1 tablespoon molasses
1 tablespoon honey
5 tablespoons white sugar
2 tablespoons dry milk powder
2 tablespoons butter flavored shortening
4 1/2 cups bread flour
2 teaspoons active dry yeast

DIRECTIONS
1. Place ingredients in the pan of the bread machine in the order recommended by the manufacturer. Select dough cycle for a 2 pound batch; press Start. The dough can be a bit sticky, so you may want to add a little bit more bread flour as it mixes.
2. When the dough cycle is complete, turn the risen dough out on a lightly floured surface and divide into twelve equal pieces. Form the pieces into rounds and place on lightly greased baking sheets. Cover the rolls with a damp cloth and let rise until doubled in volume, about 40 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
3. Bake in preheated oven for 15 minutes, until golden brown.

Quick and easy Kalua Pork

2008-09-03T17:50:00.000-07:00

Costco now has pork sirloin tip roasts in a 3 pack.

Quick, easy dinner using the crock pot. Stab one of the roasts with the carving fork all over. Take 1 1/2 TBSP of sea salt, rub all over the roast. Then take 1 1/2 TBSP of liquid smoke and rub all over the roast. Add 1/2 cup of water to bottom of crock pot, put in the roast.

Recipe said to cook for 16 hours on low. I did 8 hours on high, then switched it to low. After 9 hours it shred super easy.

Take roast out, shred with 2 forks, then add the liquid that is in the bottom of the crockpot (I strained out any fat). Put on hamburger buns with lettuce, tomatoe, onion.

Finished another great book

2008-08-30T18:18:00.001-07:00

I finished this novel today and it was a great story about the twists and turns life can throw at you at any point of your life and ways to look at tragedy in a guilt free manner.

Went Stampin' last night!

2008-08-26T18:20:00.003-07:00

I went to my friend Lisa's last night to make cards! She is so creative, it is always fun to see what she has come up with!

Disappointed with this one

2008-08-25T13:41:00.002-07:00

I am one of those people that, when I start a book, I finish it. Even if I don't like it....

Not much I can say about this book...it came with rave reviews....however...I didn't like it.

Story moved slowly, ending didn't seem to go with the rest of the book.

Very disappointed.

Red Marbles

2008-08-25T08:29:00.003-07:00

RED MARBLES

I was at the corner grocery store buying some new potatoes. I noticed a small boy, delicate of bone and feature, ragged but clean, hungrily appraising a basket of freshly picked green peas.

I paid for my potatoes, but was also drawn to the display of fresh green peas. I am a pushover for creamed peas and new potatoes. Pondering the peas, I couldn't help overhearing the conversation between Mr. Miller (the store owner) and the ragged boy next to me.

'Hello Barry, how are you today?' 'H'lo, Mr. Miller. Fine, thank ya. Jus' admirin' them peas. They sure look good.' 'They are good, Barry How's your Ma?' 'Fine. Gittin' stronger alla' time.' 'Good. Anything I can help you with?' 'No, Sir. Jus' admirin' them peas.'

'Would you like take some home?' asked Mr. Miller. 'No, Sir. Got nuthin' to pay for 'em with.'

'Well, what have you to trade me for some of those peas?' 'All I got's my prize marble here.' 'Is that right? Let me see it' said Miller. 'Here 'tis. She's a dandy.' 'I can see that. Hmmmmm, only thing is this one is blue and I sort of go for red. Do you have a red one like this at home?' the store owner asked. 'Not zackley but almost.' 'Tell you what. Take this sack of peas home with you and next trip this way let me look at that red marble', Mr. Miller told the boy 'Sure will. Thanks Mr. Miller.'

Mrs. Miller, who had been standing nearby, came over to help me. With a smile said, 'There are two other boys like him in our community, all three are in very poor circumstances. Jim just loves to bargain with them for peas, apples, tomatoes, or whatever. When they come back with their red marbles, and they always do, he decides he doesn't like red after all and he sends them home with a bag of produce for a green marble or an orange one, when they come on their next trip to the store.'

I left the store smiling to myself, impressed with this man. A short time later I moved to Colorado , but I never forgot the story of this man, the boys, and their bartering for marbles. Several years went by, each more rapid than the previous one.

Just recently I had occasion to visit some old friends in that Idaho community and while I was there learned that Mr. Miller had died. They were having his visitation that evening and knowing my friends wanted to go, I agreed to accompany them.

Upon arrival at the mortuary we fell into line to meet the relatives of the deceased and to offer whatever words of comfort we could. Ahead of us in line were three young men. One was in an army uniform and the other two wore nice haircuts, dark suits and white shirts...all very professional looking. They approached Mrs. Miller, standing composed and smiling by her husband's casket. Each of the young men hugged her, kissed her on the cheek, spoke briefly with her and moved on to the casket. Her misty light blue eyes followed them as, one by one, each young man stopped briefly and placed his own warm hand over the cold pale hand in the casket. Each left the mortuary awkwardly, wiping his eyes.

Our turn came to meet Mrs. Miller. I told her who I was and reminded her of the story from those many years ago and what she had told me about her husband's bartering for marbles. With her eyes glistening, she took my hand and led me to the casket. 'Those three young men who just left were the boys I told you about. They just told me how they appreciated the things Jim 'traded' them.

Now, at last, when Jim could not change his mind about color or size....they came to pay their debt' 'We've never had a great deal of the wealth of this world,' she confided, 'but right now, Jim would consider himself the richest man in Idaho '.

With loving gentleness she lifted the lifeless fingers of her deceased husband. Resting underneath were three exquisitely shined red marbles.

The Moral : We will not be remembered by our words, but by our kind deeds. Life is not measured by the breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath.

Today I wish you a day of ordinary miracles ~

A fresh pot of coffee you didn't make yourself.

An unexpected phone call from an old friend.

Green stoplights on your way to work.

The fastest line at the grocery store.

A good sing-along song on the radio.

Your keys found right where you left them.

It's not what you gather, but what you scatter that tells what kind of life you have lived!

Finished Desperate Passage!

2008-08-18T12:31:00.003-07:00

I finished Desperate Passage on Friday! What a great account of the Donner Party's westward journey!

Great book for kids

2008-08-15T11:28:00.002-07:00

Last night Sarah, Tyler and I read "Diary of a Worm" Doreen Cronin. It was hilarious and the kids loved it. The illustrations are by Harry Bliss and so entertaining.

We recommend it to anyone with preschool to elementary aged children!

A Prayer for Children

2008-08-14T08:46:00.002-07:00

A Prayer for Children
taken from a poem by Ina J. Hughes
We pray for children
who put chocolate fingers everywhere,
who like to be tickled,
who stomp in puddles and ruin their new pants,
who sneak popsicles before supper,
who can never find their shoes.

And we pray for those
who stare at photographers from behind barbed wire,
who can't bound in the street in a new pair of sneakers,
who never go to the circus
who live in an X-rated world.

We pray for the children
who bring us fistfuls of dandelions,
who sleep with the dog,
who hug us in a hurry and forget their lunch money,
who cover themselves with Band-Aids and sing off-key,
who squeeze toothpaste all over the sink.

And we pray for those
who never get dessert,
who have no safe blanket to drag behind them,
who watch their parents watch them die,
who can't find any bread to steal,
whose pictures aren't on anybody's dresser,
whose monsters are real.

We pray for the children
who spend their allowance before Tuesday,
who throw tantrums at the grocery store and pick at their food,
who shove dirty clothes under the bed,
who get visits from the Tooth Fairy,
who don't like to be kissed in front of the carpool,
who squirm in church,
whose tears we sometimes laugh at and
whose smiles can make us cry.

We pray for those
whose nightmares come in the daytime,
who will eat anything,
who aren't spoiled by anybody,
who go to bed hungry and cry themselves to sleep.

We pray for children who want to be carried
and for those who must,
for those we never give up on
andfor those who don't get a second chance.
for those we smother...
and for those who will grab the hand of anybody kind enough to offer it.

Even though.....

2008-08-12T16:10:00.001-07:00

Even though I clutch my blanket and growl when the alarm rings. Thank you, Lord, that I can hear.. There are many who are deaf.

Even though I keep my eyes closed against the morning light as long as possible. Thank you, Lord , that I can see. Many are blind.

Even though I huddle in my bed and put off rising. Thank you, Lord, that I have the strength to rise. There are many who are bedridden.

Even though the first hour of my day is hectic, when socks are lost, toast is burned, tempers are short, and my children are so loud. Thank you, Lord, for my family. There are many who are lonely.

Even though our breakfast table never looks like the picture in magazines and the menu is at times unbalanced. Thank you, Lord, for the food we have. There are many who are hungry.

Even though the routine of my job often is monotonous. Thank you, Lord, for the opportunity to work. There are many who have no job.

Even though I grumble and bemoan my fate from day to day and wish my circumstances were not so modest. Thank you, Lord, for life.

Fabulous and easy sandwich recipe

2008-08-02T23:24:00.003-07:00

I was reading Bon Apetit's September 2008 issue and decided to try their "Fast Easy and Fresh" recipe for Smoked Turkey, blue cheese, and red onion sandwiches. They were a hit! Aside from Sarah who doesn't like "leaves" on her sandwiches, and Ryan that picked off the blue cheese everyone loved them. So, the recipe is going into my "family favorites" 3 ring binder and I'm posting it here to share with all my foodie friends and family!

Makes 4 sandwiches

1 1/2 TBSP olive oil
2 red onions, cut into 1/3 thick rounds
3 1/2 TBSP red wine vinegar
6 cups trimmed large arugula leaves (I actually used the baby arugula that I picked up at Fred Meyer)
3/4 cup mayonnaise
8 slices wheat bread or 4 ciabatta rolls, cut horizontally in half (we used the rolls)
12 ounces thinly sliced smoked turkey
3/4 cup coarsely crumbled blue cheese

Heat oil in large nonstick skillet over medium high heat. Add onions and saute` until soft and lightly browned, breaking up onion rings, about 8 minutes. Remove from heat; stir in vinegar and season to taste with salt and pepper.

Chop enough arugula to measure 1 cup; place in medium bowl. Mix in mayonnaise. Season with salt and pepper. Spread a heaping TBSP of arugula mayonnaise over each cut side of bread. Divide turkey slices among bread. Top with crumbled blue cheese, red onions and more arugula.

Chocolate Peanut Butter Milkshakes

2008-08-02T23:20:00.002-07:00

This afternoon we made Chocolate Peanut Butter Milkshakes that were extremely good. The recipe was simple --

Combine 1 quart of chocolate ice cream, 1/2 cup of creamy peanut butter and 1 1/2 cups of whole milk in a blender!

Oh so good, and oh so peanut buttery!

Some amazing talent!

2008-08-01T16:11:00.001-07:00

Finished another good book!

2008-08-01T14:09:00.003-07:00

I finished another really good book by Sandra Dallas "The Diary of Mattie Spenser". It is written in the form of a diary about the trials of moving west by covered wagon from Fort Madison Iowa to Colorado.

Orange/Honey Glaze for chicken

2008-07-31T18:03:00.001-07:00

I grilled chicken tonight and used this glaze after I'd sliced the chicken breasts. Ohhhh so good!

Orange/Honey Glaze for chicken

¼ cup honey
2 TBSP orange juice concentrate
1 tsp orange zest
1 clove garlic
1/8 tsp red pepper
¼ tsp salt

Combine all ingredients with whisk and set aside. If frying chicken in a skillet, poor over chicken last 2 minutes of cooking to heat through. Remove chicken from skillet and poor glaze into serving dish to accompany chicken.

If grilling. Grill chicken, heat glaze, and pour over sliced chicken.

Now here's a speed bump for ya!

2008-07-29T14:53:00.002-07:00

I could use one of these for my street!

Baseball Scrapbook Shadow box

2008-07-24T22:48:00.002-07:00

Here's a photo of a gift I made for the twins' baseball coaches! They had a wonderful year and we were so sad that the season came to an end. It is a once in a lifetime chance that you not only get WONDERFUL coaches, but every single child and family were TERRIFIC. The good news is we will have these memories to last a lifetime!

Finished another good book!

2008-07-24T09:28:00.002-07:00

I just finished reading Tallgrass by Sandra Dallas. It is a fictional story based on the Japenese Internment Camps that were formed after the Pearl Harbor attack. The story takes place in a small farm town, and is told from a 13 year old girl's point of view. The 13 year old lives on a farm that is near the camp.

Great travel website

2008-07-22T10:40:00.001-07:00

I came across this great travel website. If you are planning to tour a major city, be sure to check it out! http://www.aviewoncities.com/

Strawberry Angel Cake Dessert

2008-07-19T22:42:00.003-07:00

I threw this dessert together tonight and it was FABULOUS!

Safeway is now selling strawberry angel food cake for $3.99. It comes in a plastic bundt shaped tin, and is in their fresh fruit section by the strawberries. While you are there, pick up a tub of strawberries, whipped cream and Hershey's chocolate syrup.

Slice the strawberries, put in a bowl and sprinkle with sugar to sweeten them up. Slice the angel food cake, put a helping of strawberries at the base, drizzle with Hershey's syrup and add a little whipped cream. Quick, easy and inexpensive as well!

Root Beer Float Cake Recipe

2008-07-15T23:12:00.003-07:00

We made this tonight for Tori's birthday and it definitely tasted like a rootbeer float. The frosting alone would go great on any cake! The recipe is from Southern Living, October 2004 issue.

Root Beer Float Cake

1 package German Chocolate Cake Mix
1 1/4 cups Root Beer (not diet)
1/4 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs

Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl. Beat mixture at low speed with an electric mixer until dry ingredients are moistened. Pour batter into greased and floured 13x9 inch pan.

Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes or until a wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. Cook cake 10 minutes. Spread Root Beer frosting evenly over warm cake.

Root Beer Frosting

1/2 cup butter or margarine
7 TBSP Root Beer (I poured 1/2 a cup of root beer, then took out a Tablespoon which then equals 7 TBSP)
3 TBSP unsweetned cocoa
1 (16 ounce) package powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract

Bring first 3 ingredients to a boil in a large saucepan over medium heat, stirring until butter melts. Remove from heat; whisk in powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth.

Oregonians

2008-07-07T10:31:00.002-07:00

Jeff Foxworthy said this about Oregonians -- he was spot on!

If someone in a Lowe's store offers you assistance and they don't work there, you may live in Oregon. (this happens in Home Depot as well)

If you've worn shorts and a parka at the same time, you may live in Oregon. (shorts and a jacket is more like it)

If you've had a lengthy telephone conversation with someone who dialed a wrong number, you may live in Oregon.

If 'Vacation' means going to Portland for the weekend, you may live in Oregon.

If you measure distance in hours, you may live in Oregon. (that's us...places are so many hours away, not miles)

If you know several people who have hit a deer more than once, you may live in Oregon. (we do)

If you install security lights on your house and garage, but leave both unlocked, you may live in Oregon. (been there, done that)

If you carry jumper cables in your car and your wife knows how to use them, you may live in Oregon. (Absolutely I know how to use them)

If the speed limit on the highway is 55 mph, you're going 80 and everybody is passing you, you may live in Oregon.

If you find 60 degrees is just throw on a sweater weather, you may live in Oregon. (60 degrees is when the shorts come out!)

If you actually understand these jokes and forward them to all your friends & others, you definitely live in Oregon

Great Kids Gardening Website

2008-07-06T21:02:00.001-07:00

I came across a great kids' gardening website (also has information for home gardening, etc.). The site has tons of educational information, including curriculum for teachers for plant based learning! http://www.kidsgardening.com/

Quizmo

2008-07-05T19:55:00.003-07:00

One of our favorite places to shop for the kids is Hobbytown USA in Wilsonville, Oregon. They have tons of educational games, books, etc. that you can't find at your typical toy store.

Quizmo is great for kids that are able to read on their own. It is similiar to another favorite of ours "Brain Quest" (you can get Brain Quest at Costco or Borders or Amazon.com). With Quizmo you start off buying their starter set. It comes with a handheld electronic quiz machine and a flip book. In the flip book, it have a question, such as "Why do camels have three eyelids?" Then you are given 4 choices A. Because the sun is so bright in the desert, B. To protect their eyes from blowing sand C. To keep their eyes tightly closed during sleep or D. To keep their eyes warm on cold nights. You input your answer into the handheld device and it will give you a green light if you are correct, or a red light if you are wrong. If wrong, you keep trying to find the correct answer. When you are done with the questions, you push a button and it gives you a percentage of questions you answered correctly.

Once you've finished the starter book, Hobbytown has a large selection of additional books to purchase. It is great for road/plane trips!

Public school education in today's world

2008-07-05T17:18:00.003-07:00

This is worth the time to watch for parents and educators!

Monkey Munch Recipe

2008-07-01T21:55:00.002-07:00

Tori made this recipe today and it was wonderful!!!! Not to mention if a 9 year old can do it, it is also quick and easy!

Monkey Munch

9 cups Chex® cereal (we used Chocolate Chex, but you can use any one you wish)
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup peanut butter
1/4 cup butter or margarine
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar

1. Into large bowl, measure cereal; set aside.
2. In 1-quart microwavable bowl, stir together chocolate chips, peanut butter and butter. Microwave uncovered on High 1 minute; stir. Microwave about 30 seconds longer or until mixture can be stirred smooth. Stir in vanilla. Pour mixture over cereal, stirring until evenly coated. Pour into 2-gallon resealable food-storage plastic bag.
3. Add powdered sugar. Seal bag; shake until well coated. Spread on waxed paper to cool. Store in airtight container in refrigerator.

Stove-Top Directions: Into large bowl, measure cereal; set aside. In 1-quart saucepan, heat chocolate chips, peanut butter and butter over low heat, stirring frequently, until melted. Remove from heat; stir in vanilla. Pour mixture over cereal, stirring until evenly coated. Pour into 2-gallon resealable food-storage plastic bag. Add powdered sugar. Seal bag; shake until well coated. Spread on waxed paper to cool. Store in airtight container in refrigerator.

Flowers for Algernon

2008-06-27T16:26:00.003-07:00

I finished another really good book today "Flowers for Algernon" by Daniel Keyes. It's a quick, easy, fictional novel about a retarded man who is given an operation that will make him a genius. The book is written as if they are excerpts from his diary.

Check out Kiva.org

2008-06-18T23:15:00.003-07:00

It only takes $25 to make the world a better place for those less fortunate. Check out www.kiva.org

How Kiva Works
Choose an Entrepreneur, Lend, Get RepaidThe below diagram shows briefly how money gets from you to a developing-world entrepreneur, and back.
1) Lenders like you browse profiles of entrepreneurs in need, and choose someone to lend to. When they lend, using PayPal or their credit cards, Kiva collects the funds and then passes them along to one of our microfinance partners worldwide.
2) Kiva's microfinance partners distribute the loan funds to the selected entrepreneur. Often, our partners also provide training and other assistance to maximize the entrepreneur's chances of success.
3) Over time, the entrepreneur repays their loan. Repayment and other updates are posted on Kiva and emailed to lenders who wish to receive them.
4) When lenders get their money back, they can re-lend to someone else in need, donate their funds to Kiva (to cover operational expenses), or withdraw their funds.

Las Vegas

2008-06-17T08:55:00.001-07:00

Check out details of our trip to Las Vegas on our family webpage http://tishendorfs.blogspot.com

Coldwater Creek

2008-06-09T10:54:00.003-07:00

I spent Sunday morning at the Spa, and just have to say, if you are ever in the Portland area, be sure to make an appointment at Coldwater Creek ~ The Spa! Their facials and ultimate pedicures are the best and the talk of the town! http://coldwatercreekthespa.com/locations.aspx?StoreID=5102

50 best websites

2008-06-08T21:55:00.001-07:00

For a list of Time magazines 50 best websites in 2007 go to http://www.time.com/time/specials/2007/article/0,28804,1633488_1639316,00.html

A few more papercrafts!

2008-06-03T20:10:00.002-07:00

I went to a paper crop Friday night and made a few items!

This one was my favorite. It is a purse!
Open it up and pictures will be attached to the patterned papers!
In the pockets on either sides are the circles above the purse where more photos can be pasted!

A new twist on the Sloppy Joe

2008-06-03T16:48:00.004-07:00

Tonight I made Rachel Ray's recipe for "Sloppy Joe Di Maggios" which I found on the foodtv.com site! It was a hit! Thought I'd share it. Not the healthiest recipe, but tonight is game night and I had this made and on the table in less than 30 minutes!

Sloppy Joe Di Maggios - Serves a whole team of 9 little leaguers!
Recipe courtesy Rachael Ray, 2007

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
2 pounds lean ground sirloin or ground turkey
1 packages beef or pork hot dogs, sliced 1/2-inch thick
1 onion, chopped
1 tablespoon steak seasoning (recommended: Montreal Steak Seasoning by McCormick)
1 tablespoon chili powder
3 tablespoons dark brown sugar
3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 (14.5-ounce) can tomato sauce
9 soft burger rolls - like at the ballpark

Heat the extra-virgin olive oil, a turn of the pan, in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add meat and crumble as it browns. Add chopped hot dogs after 3 to 4 minutes then cook 3 to 4 minutes more. Add the onions to the pan and cook to soften, 5 to 6 minutes more. In a bowl mix the spices, sugar, Worcestershire and tomato sauce. Pour sauce over the meat and simmer a few minutes to combine flavors. Slop onto buns and serve.

Well, looks like sheep may be a good option!

2008-06-03T15:07:00.002-07:00

I drove past the gas station today (in my 12 passenger van!) and it was $4.15 a gallon. Last time I put $50 in, the dial was just over 1/4 a tank. My Aunt sent these cartoons and they seem fitting!

Cards, Cards and more Cards

2008-06-01T09:56:00.002-07:00

I've been busy making "thank you" cards for all my friends who are so good to me!

Blueberry-Banana Batido

2008-05-28T16:47:00.003-07:00

A Batido is a cuban drink, similiar to the American Milkshake or smoothie. I got this recipe from http://eatingwell.com and the kids made it for breakfast. It was a huge hit!

For 1 serving --

Ingredients --

1 ripe banana, peeled and cut into chunks
1/2 cup frozen blueberries
1 Tablespoon Sugar
4 ice cubes
1 cup buttermilk

Instructions

Combine banana, blueberries, sugar, ice cubes and buttermilk in a blender and blend until smooth.

Are you "wii fit" yet?

2008-05-21T07:36:00.004-07:00

Braved the crowds first thing this morning and got my Wii Fit! Think I can look like the lady on the box in a week?

Chicken Salad Sandwhich Recipe

2008-05-15T15:58:00.002-07:00

Quick and easy for these hot summer days ahead!

Chicken Salad Sandwhich Recipe

2 chicken breasts, cooked and finely chopped (boiled preferably so the chicken isn't dry)
4 stalks of celery finely chopped
5 hard cooked eggs, chopped
4 TBSP. sweet pickle relish
1/2 tsp. ground black pepper
2/3 cup mayonnaise

Combine all ingredients. Chill in covered container until ready to serve. Butter bread, and spread on sandwhiches.

Test your geography knowledge

2008-05-12T10:13:00.001-07:00

Test how well you know your world geography (apparently I need to go back to school).
http://www.travelpod.com/traveler-iq

Quick and Easy Strawberry shortcake

2008-05-11T20:40:00.002-07:00

I made this tonight for dessert and it was WONDERFUL!!!

Quick and Easy Strawberry Shortcake

For shortcake –

1 frozen Sara Lee Pound Cake
1 small container Cool Whip
1 pint fresh strawberries slice into halves, tops removed

Ganache –

½ cup heavy whipping cream
8 ounces semi sweet or bittersweet chocolate
Optional -- 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder and 1 tablespoon Kahlúa OR 1 tablespoon of any liqueur or 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Thaw Pound Cake and Cool Whip in Fridge (5 hours). Slice Pound Cake horizontally into 3 layers. Spread Cool Whip ½ inch thick on bottom layer, top with ½ of the strawberry slices. Add second layer of pound cake. Top with ½ inch thick layer Cool Whip and remainder of strawberries. Add top layer of pound cake. Set aside.

Prepare Ganache -- Place chopped chocolate in a medium-sized, heat proof bowl. Make note that the hot cream will eventually be poured over it and must cover it entirely. Pour cream into a medium saucepan under medium heat and bring to a boil. Remove from heat and pour over chocolate. Shake bowl and allow to stand for about 2 minutes. Stir with a whisk until smooth. Add espresso powder dissolved in liqueur or other optional ingredients.
Drizzle over pound cake and let set for a minute. Slice and serve! Make 4 servings. Recipe can be doubled!