Sometimes, you just need to use what you have and not run to the grocery store for 1 or 2 ingredients. This week, I have been doing just that. It's been difficult as I can seriously see the grocery store from my front porch. It's just across the highway. To get there it's less than 1/4 mile if I drive over. It's even shorter if I walk because I'm not confined to going one way on the one way street.
But, my pantry, freezer and refrigerator are full. I don't need to buy more things. Well, I need more chicken....and in a couple of days I will need another gallon of milk, tea, coffee and sugar. But, that's beside the point.
I have been making lots of recipes from Pinterest. Lots of them. Some have turned out GREAT. Others have been just okay. But, everything has been edible and we've enjoyed having a variety of food instead of the same 10-ish meals over and over and over.
Which brings me to my point. These recipes almost always call for something I don't have in my pantry. Sometimes it's an ingredient I've used and haven't replenished. Other times, it's something I don't regularly buy. But, these trips to the grocery are getting out of hand. So, I decided to stop driving over every day for one item, only to come out of the store with 10-20 items. I told you it was getting out of hand.
Case in point. I found this recipe http://www.mamalaughlin.com/2012/02/skinny-doritos-taco-bake.html for Skinny Doritos Taco Bake on Pinterest. It sounded yummy. I was in the mood for something different and I thought I had everything I needed. Wrong! For a moment, I considered running the 1/4 mile to the store to pick up the things I needed/wanted to make this exact recipe. Then I remembered the promise I had made myself to "make do" with what I have.
So, I made substitutions and came up with a recipe I am now calling "Frito Pie Casserole" since it reminded us all of Frito Pie. The nice thing, it was easy as I didn't have to make chili and it was already put together.
Ready? It's Recipe Time!!
Frito Pie Casserole
1 can dark red kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1/2 pound ground beef
1/2 small white onion, chopped
1 small can (8 oz) tomato sauce
1 can diced green chilis
salt*
pepper*
cumin*
chili powder*
paprika*
1/4 cup Mexican blend shredded cheese (or cheddar, if you prefer)
2 snack bags of Spicy Nacho Doritos (or Fritos, if you prefer)
2 Tbsp Sour Cream
*or, substitute 1/2 packet of taco seasoning, or to taste
Preheat oven to 350.
Spray bottom of an 8 x 8 casserole dish. Put beans over bottom.
Brown the beef with onion until done. Sprinkle with spices or 1/2 taco seasoning packet to taste.
Stir in tomato sauce and peppers. Heat through and let simmer for 10 minutes. Adjust seasonings, if needed.
Pour meat mixture over the beans. Dot sour cream over the meat and swirl it over the top to cover in a very thin layer. Sprinkle cheese over the sour cream. Crush the chips and layer on top.
Put it into the oven. Bake 20-30 minutes, until it begins to bubble around the edges. Cool for a bit and enjoy!!
Before you get all crazy because I used "Doritos" but called it "Frito Pie" let me address that now. I named it what I did because that's what it tasted like to all of us. I assume with Fritos it will taste basically the same, but will need a little extra cheese. I went light on cheese and sour cream because I have people in my house who #1 are sensitive to dairy products and #2 don't like cheese or sour cream.
My thought is, if you add more cheese and sour cream, you would definitely want to use plain Fritos instead of the Doritos. And, add more than two snack bags. More like 3 or 4. Or, half a regular bag of Fritos. Whatever makes you happy. I just didn't have any when I made this.
My usual coffee update: Yes, yes, yes. Lots. Made a pot this morning and another half pot this afternoon. Community Coffee, Hotel Blend. It's my go-to coffee. Love it. Having it with a slice of this cake is quite yummy. Found this recipe on Pinterest too. http://3to1barnett.blogspot.com/2010/02/foodie-friday-sundrop-cakeyummie.html Sun Drop Cake. You MUST try it. Now, today. Go buy the ingredients and get baking!! :)
Thursday, October 25, 2012
Monday, October 15, 2012
Chicken Pot Pie Casserole
By now you know of my great love of Pinterest and all the wonderful recipes I find there. One, in particular, caught my attention this weekend, probably due to the cooler weather, the cloudy skies and the general feel of Fall in the air.
Wanna know which one so captured my attention it is all I have been able to think about since Saturday? It is this one. http://theshadyporch.blogspot.com/2011/11/chicken-dumpling-casserole.html It looks and sounds scrumptious. Plus, the blog is a fun read too. Check it out. In the blog, she referenced this recipe, http://www.deepsouthdish.com/2009/02/chicken-and-dumpling-bake.html, which is another yummy sounding recipe, plus a well written blog.
After reading both, I was inspired to try my hand at making this casserole. But, here is the problem. My darling husband is not a fan of chicken and dumplings. So, making a chicken and dumpling casserole probably isn't the best idea.
What is a Southern girl who is longing for some chicken and dumplings to do? Put a twist on the recipe and turn it into a Chicken Pot Pie casserole. Of course!!
This is what I did.
Found the perfect oval casserole dish in my cabinet, turned on the oven and melted 2 Tbsp of butter in the dish. Cut poached chicken into bite size pieces and dumped them into the dish.
Then, I opened a couple of small cans of peas and corn to plop on top of the chicken (this was to turn the casserole into a pot pie vs dumplings) and then I noticed something. Oops, I thought it was whole kernel corn, but it was cream style corn. Whatever. I dumped them both on top of the chicken. It looked like this.
Then I added seasoning to the dish. Pepper, dried onion flakes, garlic powder, dried parsley, sage. Smelled wonderful. Close your eyes and breathe deeply. Can you smell it?
Then, I got creative and did something a little different with my "dumplings" because I remembered all the comments from the other two blogs. Lots of complaints about the final result being rather soupy and it taking way too long to cook due to the liquidness (is that a word) of the dish.
Because of that, I decided to make my dumplings a bit more dumpling like - or rather, biscuit like. Using what I had on hand (I'm trying to clear out my pantry and freezer) I pulled out my box of Pioneer Baking mix and measured out 1.5 cups of mix, then stirred in 3/4 cup of milk.
I liked the consistency. Not too stiff, but not too runny either. I scooped out spoonsful and plopped over the veggies and spices. Like this:
Doesn't that look good for being unbaked??
Then, I popped it into the oven and am now anxiously waiting to see how it turns out as I type this post. It smells good. Just went into the kitchen to take a peek. It looks good too. It's browning nicely on top and the biscuit/dumplings are setting up nicely. Whew! It's very bubbly also. It has been 30 minutes since I put it into the oven. I think a few more minutes will help the broth to cook down and thicken to the right consistency. Soon, I will pull it out and let it begin to cool a little before dinner.
The debate now is, do I make additional biscuits to go with it? We LOVE biscuits and pot pie never has enough. Maybe I will make some copy cat Red Lobster biscuits to go with it...
Oh, this is what it looks like when it is done.
Full Recipe:
Susan's Chicken Pot Pie Casserole
2 Tbsp butter or margarine
3 cups cubed chicken*
Wanna know which one so captured my attention it is all I have been able to think about since Saturday? It is this one. http://theshadyporch.blogspot.com/2011/11/chicken-dumpling-casserole.html It looks and sounds scrumptious. Plus, the blog is a fun read too. Check it out. In the blog, she referenced this recipe, http://www.deepsouthdish.com/2009/02/chicken-and-dumpling-bake.html, which is another yummy sounding recipe, plus a well written blog.
After reading both, I was inspired to try my hand at making this casserole. But, here is the problem. My darling husband is not a fan of chicken and dumplings. So, making a chicken and dumpling casserole probably isn't the best idea.
What is a Southern girl who is longing for some chicken and dumplings to do? Put a twist on the recipe and turn it into a Chicken Pot Pie casserole. Of course!!
This is what I did.
Found the perfect oval casserole dish in my cabinet, turned on the oven and melted 2 Tbsp of butter in the dish. Cut poached chicken into bite size pieces and dumped them into the dish.
Then, I opened a couple of small cans of peas and corn to plop on top of the chicken (this was to turn the casserole into a pot pie vs dumplings) and then I noticed something. Oops, I thought it was whole kernel corn, but it was cream style corn. Whatever. I dumped them both on top of the chicken. It looked like this.
Then I added seasoning to the dish. Pepper, dried onion flakes, garlic powder, dried parsley, sage. Smelled wonderful. Close your eyes and breathe deeply. Can you smell it?
Then, I got creative and did something a little different with my "dumplings" because I remembered all the comments from the other two blogs. Lots of complaints about the final result being rather soupy and it taking way too long to cook due to the liquidness (is that a word) of the dish.
Because of that, I decided to make my dumplings a bit more dumpling like - or rather, biscuit like. Using what I had on hand (I'm trying to clear out my pantry and freezer) I pulled out my box of Pioneer Baking mix and measured out 1.5 cups of mix, then stirred in 3/4 cup of milk.
I liked the consistency. Not too stiff, but not too runny either. I scooped out spoonsful and plopped over the veggies and spices. Like this:
My theory is, this will bake into biscuits/dumplings rather than disintegrate into sauce like it would if I used a 1-1 ratio as the other two recipes did. Crossing my fingers this is what happens.
Now, to make the sauce to go into the pot pie. After all, it can't be dry. That would be awful. So, using the same bowl I made the biscuits/dumplings I poured the broth from poaching my chicken (I used 2 bouillon cubes and some dried onion flakes to season the chicken when I poached it so this broth is pretty tasty) into the bowl and mixed it together to thicken it. It wasn't quite thick enough or quite flavorful as I wanted. The other recipes called for condensed cream of chicken soup. I didn't want to use that, so instead I mixed a half cup of Pioneer mix with a third cup of milk. Sprinkled in pepper, garlic powder, basil and parsley and mixed it together. Then, I poured that into the broth and mixed it together. It looked and smelled delicious.
Poured that over everything in the dish. Like this,
Doesn't that look good for being unbaked??
Then, I popped it into the oven and am now anxiously waiting to see how it turns out as I type this post. It smells good. Just went into the kitchen to take a peek. It looks good too. It's browning nicely on top and the biscuit/dumplings are setting up nicely. Whew! It's very bubbly also. It has been 30 minutes since I put it into the oven. I think a few more minutes will help the broth to cook down and thicken to the right consistency. Soon, I will pull it out and let it begin to cool a little before dinner.
The debate now is, do I make additional biscuits to go with it? We LOVE biscuits and pot pie never has enough. Maybe I will make some copy cat Red Lobster biscuits to go with it...
Oh, this is what it looks like when it is done.
And this is it on the plate. BTW, it was tasty!!
Full Recipe:
Susan's Chicken Pot Pie Casserole
2 Tbsp butter or margarine
3 cups cubed chicken*
8.5 oz can green peas
8.5 oz can whole kernel corn (or cream style, if that's what you have or prefer)
Dried onion flakes to taste (I used 1 Tbps)
Pepper to taste (I used 1/2 tsp)
Dried parsley, garlic powder and sage, to taste (I used about 1/2 tsp each)
1.5 cup Pioneer Baking Mix (Bisquick or any other baking mix would work)
3/4 cup milk (I used 2%)
About 1 cup broth
1/2 cup baking mix
1/3 cup milk
Pepper, garlic powder, parsley, basil to taste (No idea how much I used of each, but not a lot)
Preheat oven to 350. Place butter in casserole dish and melt in the preheating oven. Carefully remove from the oven and start assembling the casserole. Be careful, the dish is HOT!!
Put cubed chicken in first. Top with peas and corn. Seasonings next. Do not mix these layers together!
Next mix the 1.5 cup of baking mix with the milk. Drop the biscuit/dumplings by spoonsful on top of the veggies and seasonings.
Pour the cup of broth into the bowl you used to make the biscuits. Stir to thicken the broth.
In a cup mix the remaining baking mix and milk. Add in the final seasonings and mix. Stir into the broth. Then, gently pour into the casserole dish. Do not mix!!!!
Bake at 350 for 30-45 minutes until the bubbly and the biscuits are browned on top and done.
*I used 3 large boneless skinless breasts poached in water with 2 bouillon cubes and dried onion flakes added to the water to flavor the chicken and subsequent broth.
Enjoy!
Thursday, October 11, 2012
A Shift in Perspective
Yesterday I wrote about something I have wanted for a very long time. Something I doubt will ever come to pass and the hurt from knowing it will remain an unfulfilled desire.
Don't think I am angry or bitter about it. I am not. My heart hurts, yes. I am sad over it. But I accept the fact that although I want it desperately, it may not be what is best.
Days before writing yesterday's post, I gave up all responsibility for this lack by placing it in God's capable hands. If this desire is from him, he will change hearts and minds and it will happen. If he has decided it is best for this desire to go unfulfilled, then I trust he has a better plan for my life. Untimately, in the center of his will is where I always want to be.
Last night, after posting, I was reading other blogs as well as keeping up with various status updates on Facebook. Suddenly, I was stopped in my tracks.
Let me back track for a moment. I grew up in a small town in Tennessee. A very small town. One stop light. Everyone knows everyone there. Seriously. But, not in a bad way. In a caring way. The way only small Southern towns can do. It's like a very big extended family.
Former classmates are now teaching at the schools where I attended as a child. Their children are now attending those same schools. Everyone still knows everyone there. And, they still care. Deeply. And, if you are from there, you still care too. No matter how far away or how long you have been gone, the small town heart still beats within.
So, last night, when I saw updates saying there had been a wreck involving two of the local high school girls, my heart broke and I prayed. As I kept reading, I learned one was dead and the other in surgery fighting for her life. She didn't make it.
My heart is crushed by this more than from any unfulfilled desire.
There are two families in my hometown in Tennessee who are without their daughters today.
There is suffering and pain in so many lives right now. Some of them I don't know, having lived away for over 20 years. Some of them I do know. They are my family members, friends, former classmates, etc. Their hearts are broken.
So I do what I can from Texas. I pray for God to be there, to comfort them in their need. To sustain them. To give them grace and peace. I pray for them to have strength to go on each day. And, I pray they have soft hearts, full of love and not bitterness.
Please pray for the families and friends with me. I know my hometown will appreciate it.
Don't think I am angry or bitter about it. I am not. My heart hurts, yes. I am sad over it. But I accept the fact that although I want it desperately, it may not be what is best.
Days before writing yesterday's post, I gave up all responsibility for this lack by placing it in God's capable hands. If this desire is from him, he will change hearts and minds and it will happen. If he has decided it is best for this desire to go unfulfilled, then I trust he has a better plan for my life. Untimately, in the center of his will is where I always want to be.
Last night, after posting, I was reading other blogs as well as keeping up with various status updates on Facebook. Suddenly, I was stopped in my tracks.
Let me back track for a moment. I grew up in a small town in Tennessee. A very small town. One stop light. Everyone knows everyone there. Seriously. But, not in a bad way. In a caring way. The way only small Southern towns can do. It's like a very big extended family.
Former classmates are now teaching at the schools where I attended as a child. Their children are now attending those same schools. Everyone still knows everyone there. And, they still care. Deeply. And, if you are from there, you still care too. No matter how far away or how long you have been gone, the small town heart still beats within.
So, last night, when I saw updates saying there had been a wreck involving two of the local high school girls, my heart broke and I prayed. As I kept reading, I learned one was dead and the other in surgery fighting for her life. She didn't make it.
My heart is crushed by this more than from any unfulfilled desire.
There are two families in my hometown in Tennessee who are without their daughters today.
There is suffering and pain in so many lives right now. Some of them I don't know, having lived away for over 20 years. Some of them I do know. They are my family members, friends, former classmates, etc. Their hearts are broken.
So I do what I can from Texas. I pray for God to be there, to comfort them in their need. To sustain them. To give them grace and peace. I pray for them to have strength to go on each day. And, I pray they have soft hearts, full of love and not bitterness.
Please pray for the families and friends with me. I know my hometown will appreciate it.
Wednesday, October 10, 2012
What A Mom Does
Have you ever been denied a deep desire of your heart?
I'm not talking something like "I want a new car, but the budget doesn't support it." But, something deep, something meaningful, something that in a way defines who you are, how you see yourself, and maybe even who you want to be deep down inside.
A life changing desire of the heart.
Something that you are *this close* to being able to make happen. *This stinking close* But, making it happen will hurt some one or two special people whom you love more than yourself.
These people ask difficult questions that are hard to answer when you try to discuss the subject. You know the answer deep in your heart, but putting it into words, words you say aloud, is almost impossible.
How do you describe such a desperate, deep, intangible, irresistible longing? A longing that will in some ways complete you, but will in turn make them feel less. Maybe not always. Maybe not for long. But, initially. Sometimes just speaking about it hurts them that much.
Ouch.
So, to spare others feelings. Their self worth. Their emotional needs. Their security. You deny yourself this longing. Your heart rends. It breaks. It bleeds. It will never be complete again, because it is a void that can not be filled.
Don't worry. I am okay.
What hurts even worse than having one of my own longings left unfulfilled is seeing one of my sons be disappointed. Especially when there is absolutely nothing I can do to help or fix things. All I can do is simply be there to talk it over and listen.
And, when I can help, then I do. Like now. By dropping my desires for theirs. Again. It's what a Mom does. Gladly. Willingly. Easily. Gratefully. Unreservedly. Always. Forever. Because, they won't always be young. They won't always need me as they do now (even though they are all teens). But, as long as they need their Mom, I will be here for them, no reservations needed. :)
I'm not talking something like "I want a new car, but the budget doesn't support it." But, something deep, something meaningful, something that in a way defines who you are, how you see yourself, and maybe even who you want to be deep down inside.
A life changing desire of the heart.
Something that you are *this close* to being able to make happen. *This stinking close* But, making it happen will hurt some one or two special people whom you love more than yourself.
These people ask difficult questions that are hard to answer when you try to discuss the subject. You know the answer deep in your heart, but putting it into words, words you say aloud, is almost impossible.
How do you describe such a desperate, deep, intangible, irresistible longing? A longing that will in some ways complete you, but will in turn make them feel less. Maybe not always. Maybe not for long. But, initially. Sometimes just speaking about it hurts them that much.
Ouch.
So, to spare others feelings. Their self worth. Their emotional needs. Their security. You deny yourself this longing. Your heart rends. It breaks. It bleeds. It will never be complete again, because it is a void that can not be filled.
Don't worry. I am okay.
What hurts even worse than having one of my own longings left unfulfilled is seeing one of my sons be disappointed. Especially when there is absolutely nothing I can do to help or fix things. All I can do is simply be there to talk it over and listen.
And, when I can help, then I do. Like now. By dropping my desires for theirs. Again. It's what a Mom does. Gladly. Willingly. Easily. Gratefully. Unreservedly. Always. Forever. Because, they won't always be young. They won't always need me as they do now (even though they are all teens). But, as long as they need their Mom, I will be here for them, no reservations needed. :)
Thursday, October 4, 2012
What's My Topic?
Oh good grief!!!
I was blogging away and had a fairly decent post almost completed. Then, POOF! I somehow deleted the entire thing. Normally, I would recreate the post. But, as I have a massive headache, I refuse to even try it today.
Now, the question is: What shall I blog about today? Yesterday I had a GREAT topic in mind. Manners, or rather the lack of them on-line. More specifically, how some people like to hide behind their computer screens and be rude, nasty and mean to other people.
Today, I do not have the ability to undertake such an important topic. Maybe, in the future. But, please do not hold your breath waiting to read such an inspiring, well written blog post. It may never happen.
My mind has been wandering about in search of a topic I can write about daily. Well, at least weekly, as my track record clearly shows I rarely write daily. I am in awe of people who have narrowed their blogs to one topic and write about it consistently. Food, fashion, decorating, adoption, foster parenting, parenting, art, travel, etc. How do they do it?
Some days, no, most days, I consider myself to be a "Jill of all trades, master of none." The only thing I know enough about to write about consistently is what is going on in my own home. Even then, it's only a snapshot. Usually a blurred one. Photography is not my forte. I wish it was. I took a class in college. I made a C. *sigh*
I added a couple of recipes today to the blog. And, I put links to them on the Recipes tab so they will be easy to find in the future. I need to skim through the blog to find other recipes to link there. Or, maybe not. Too much to attempt today.
The one constant in my blogging is my cup of coffee. As much as I love coffee, beyond mentioning what I am currently drinking (Community Coffee, Hotel Blend with a splash of half and half and artificial sweetener) there really isn't much I can say about coffee. Certainly not enough for it to be my main blog topic.
So, I am back to the drawing board wondering what I can or should write about. I dunno. Any suggestions? Or, do you like my ramblings? Maybe it makes you feel good to know someone else out there doesn't have it quite all together too.
As promised, a couple of pics from my house. I don't have things completely arranged yet. But, it's cozy and home.
I was blogging away and had a fairly decent post almost completed. Then, POOF! I somehow deleted the entire thing. Normally, I would recreate the post. But, as I have a massive headache, I refuse to even try it today.
Now, the question is: What shall I blog about today? Yesterday I had a GREAT topic in mind. Manners, or rather the lack of them on-line. More specifically, how some people like to hide behind their computer screens and be rude, nasty and mean to other people.
Today, I do not have the ability to undertake such an important topic. Maybe, in the future. But, please do not hold your breath waiting to read such an inspiring, well written blog post. It may never happen.
My mind has been wandering about in search of a topic I can write about daily. Well, at least weekly, as my track record clearly shows I rarely write daily. I am in awe of people who have narrowed their blogs to one topic and write about it consistently. Food, fashion, decorating, adoption, foster parenting, parenting, art, travel, etc. How do they do it?
Some days, no, most days, I consider myself to be a "Jill of all trades, master of none." The only thing I know enough about to write about consistently is what is going on in my own home. Even then, it's only a snapshot. Usually a blurred one. Photography is not my forte. I wish it was. I took a class in college. I made a C. *sigh*
I added a couple of recipes today to the blog. And, I put links to them on the Recipes tab so they will be easy to find in the future. I need to skim through the blog to find other recipes to link there. Or, maybe not. Too much to attempt today.
The one constant in my blogging is my cup of coffee. As much as I love coffee, beyond mentioning what I am currently drinking (Community Coffee, Hotel Blend with a splash of half and half and artificial sweetener) there really isn't much I can say about coffee. Certainly not enough for it to be my main blog topic.
So, I am back to the drawing board wondering what I can or should write about. I dunno. Any suggestions? Or, do you like my ramblings? Maybe it makes you feel good to know someone else out there doesn't have it quite all together too.
As promised, a couple of pics from my house. I don't have things completely arranged yet. But, it's cozy and home.
The living room.
I still need to add a few things to the walls and a chair or two.
But, overall, I am happy with it.
The "Before" picture of the dining room as I was trying to figure out what to do with everything.
The After picture.
Whew. Looks a LOT better, huh?
It's a pleasure to cook and eat in here now.
That's it for today. Hope you enjoyed the foray into my crazy mind today. Chances are, tomorrow won't be any better, but we can hope. :)
Coffee: Yes, drank all the 8 cups I brewed at home. Then, on a trip with son #2, I stopped by Starbucks. I am now sipping a Venti Skinny Caramel Macchiato. It was free. I love being a Gold card member. :) Life is good.
Asparagus with Truffle Salt
I made asparagus for dinner recently. Read all about it here: http://susanscoffeechronicles.blogspot.com/2012/10/my-memory-failed-meagain.html
If all you are interested in is the recipe, you can skip the long post. I will simply add it here for you. So much easier, yes? :) Enjoy!! ~Susan :)
Asparagus with Truffle Salt
1 bunch Asparagus (or more, if you wish)
Olive Oil
Truffle Salt
Turn on broiler. Line a jelly roll pan with foil (for easy clean up). Place asparagus across the pan in a single layer. Drizzle oil over and toss to coat. Salt lightly and toss again. Broil.
You can also grill or pan fry the asparagus if you prefer. To pan fry, use med or med/high heat and add a LITTLE bit of water for steaming.
If all you are interested in is the recipe, you can skip the long post. I will simply add it here for you. So much easier, yes? :) Enjoy!! ~Susan :)
Asparagus with Truffle Salt
1 bunch Asparagus (or more, if you wish)
Olive Oil
Truffle Salt
Turn on broiler. Line a jelly roll pan with foil (for easy clean up). Place asparagus across the pan in a single layer. Drizzle oil over and toss to coat. Salt lightly and toss again. Broil.
You can also grill or pan fry the asparagus if you prefer. To pan fry, use med or med/high heat and add a LITTLE bit of water for steaming.
World's Easiest Rolls
This is a recipe I found years ago and is a go to when I need something quick, easy and yummy. For my family, I usually halve the recipe to make 6 rolls. Enjoy!! ~Susan :)
The World's Easiest Rolls
2 cups self rising flour
1.5 cups milk
6 Tbsp mayonnaise
2 tsp sugar (From my Mom's recipe. Yummy, but not necessary. Sometimes I add it, sometimes I don't.)
Preheat oven to 400. Grease muffin tins. Mix all ingredients together (do not overwork). Pour into tins 2/3 full. Bake 20 minutes.
Makes 12 rolls.
The World's Easiest Rolls
2 cups self rising flour
1.5 cups milk
6 Tbsp mayonnaise
2 tsp sugar (From my Mom's recipe. Yummy, but not necessary. Sometimes I add it, sometimes I don't.)
Preheat oven to 400. Grease muffin tins. Mix all ingredients together (do not overwork). Pour into tins 2/3 full. Bake 20 minutes.
Makes 12 rolls.
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
My Memory Failed Me.....Again
I have heard a failing memory is a sign of aging.
So are the white, excuse me, platinum blonde hairs I recently found.
Not sure why, but since finding those natural highlights, I've noticed an alarming trend of forgetfulness. Coincidence? I dearly hope so!
Either way, it leads to my current dilemma. I had an awesome topic to blog about today. The idea popped into my mind about 11:00 last night. It was such an "A-ha!" thought I almost started blogging about it then. But, I didn't. Nor did I write down this incredible topic. The tragedy? This morning, I have no clue what I wanted so desperately to write.
Sad, but true.
I have a lot of sad, but true instances in my life. Isn't that sad? It's definitely true.
So, this morning I will amuse myself with some random thoughts.
Have you ever heard of truffle salt? Until recently (9 months or so ago) I had never heard of this incredible product. My local grocery store has a "Cooking Connection" where people cook and sample meals, complete with recipe cards, daily.
Here is a stack of the cards I had nearby.
The chefs who work at my local HEB Cooking Connection are friendly and very helpful. I often stop by and ask them about something I've tried or for a suggestion. Scott and Donna are my favorites.
Anyway, last night I made a copycat version of Outback's Alice Springs Chicken for dinner. I wanted something other than the usual broccoli or mashed potato side dish. Off I went to HEB where I saw fresh asparagus and was reminded of a sample I tried one day. Grilled asparagus with truffle salt. Grabbed a bundle of asparagus and off I went to talk with Scott.
I am now the proud owner of a jar of coarse truffle salt ($12.99 for a 5 oz jar, EEK!) and a grinder. Instead of grilling it (I desperately want/need a grill pan for my gas range) I broiled it. Want the recipe? Okay. It's very simple. Line a jelly roll pan with aluminum foil. Not necessary, but makes for easy peasy clean up. Lay out the asparagus and drizzle with good quality olive oil. Toss to coat. Grind a small amount of truffle salt over the top (a little goes a long way, thank goodness) and broil. Tasty!!
Sorry I don't have a picture of the asparagus. Here is a picture of the olive oil and salt I used, in case that's helpful. :)
Oh my goodness. I just spent several minutes looking at pictures I've taken recently. Pictures for this blog. Lovely food pictures. I even have step by step pictures for a chicken dish I made a couple weeks ago. Somewhere there is probably a recipe to go along with it. Knowing me, I combined two Pinterest recipes to make one uniquely my own. Unfortunately, I have no clue which recipes I combined or where my instructions have disappeared. So, the pictures have been deleted to trouble me no more.
Another entry into Susan's "Sad, but true" file.
31 Days of Blogging continues. My initial reading list started with about 25 blogs I wanted to follow. After reading for a couple of days, I have trimmed the number to 17 with plans to trim it further. When I get it to a reasonable number of well written, interesting, helpful blogs, I will share the list.
Are you reading any of the 31 Days blogs from the enormous list I linked to a few days ago? Which ones? What do you like about them?
Coffee: My usual half pot is almost gone. I am trying to cut back, so I am only brewing a half pot each morning. Some days, I brew a second half pot around lunch. This is happening less and less. I am attempting to drink more water. Wish me luck.
So are the white, excuse me, platinum blonde hairs I recently found.
Not sure why, but since finding those natural highlights, I've noticed an alarming trend of forgetfulness. Coincidence? I dearly hope so!
Either way, it leads to my current dilemma. I had an awesome topic to blog about today. The idea popped into my mind about 11:00 last night. It was such an "A-ha!" thought I almost started blogging about it then. But, I didn't. Nor did I write down this incredible topic. The tragedy? This morning, I have no clue what I wanted so desperately to write.
Sad, but true.
I have a lot of sad, but true instances in my life. Isn't that sad? It's definitely true.
So, this morning I will amuse myself with some random thoughts.
Have you ever heard of truffle salt? Until recently (9 months or so ago) I had never heard of this incredible product. My local grocery store has a "Cooking Connection" where people cook and sample meals, complete with recipe cards, daily.
Here is a stack of the cards I had nearby.
The chefs who work at my local HEB Cooking Connection are friendly and very helpful. I often stop by and ask them about something I've tried or for a suggestion. Scott and Donna are my favorites.
Anyway, last night I made a copycat version of Outback's Alice Springs Chicken for dinner. I wanted something other than the usual broccoli or mashed potato side dish. Off I went to HEB where I saw fresh asparagus and was reminded of a sample I tried one day. Grilled asparagus with truffle salt. Grabbed a bundle of asparagus and off I went to talk with Scott.
I am now the proud owner of a jar of coarse truffle salt ($12.99 for a 5 oz jar, EEK!) and a grinder. Instead of grilling it (I desperately want/need a grill pan for my gas range) I broiled it. Want the recipe? Okay. It's very simple. Line a jelly roll pan with aluminum foil. Not necessary, but makes for easy peasy clean up. Lay out the asparagus and drizzle with good quality olive oil. Toss to coat. Grind a small amount of truffle salt over the top (a little goes a long way, thank goodness) and broil. Tasty!!
Sorry I don't have a picture of the asparagus. Here is a picture of the olive oil and salt I used, in case that's helpful. :)
Another entry into Susan's "Sad, but true" file.
31 Days of Blogging continues. My initial reading list started with about 25 blogs I wanted to follow. After reading for a couple of days, I have trimmed the number to 17 with plans to trim it further. When I get it to a reasonable number of well written, interesting, helpful blogs, I will share the list.
Are you reading any of the 31 Days blogs from the enormous list I linked to a few days ago? Which ones? What do you like about them?
Coffee: My usual half pot is almost gone. I am trying to cut back, so I am only brewing a half pot each morning. Some days, I brew a second half pot around lunch. This is happening less and less. I am attempting to drink more water. Wish me luck.
Tuesday, October 2, 2012
Living with Intention
I have a confession to make.
Ready?
I am a (somewhat) reformed Type A personality.
Are you shocked?
Are you shocked I had to go back and add the (somewhat) to the above statement? I still have the tendency to go Type A every day, thinking I need to be Wonder Woman. But, I fight it now. I like living a slower, more intentional life.
This transformation didn't happen overnight, let me assure you. It has taken years. Literally. It all started when I had my first son. Little cracks in the fabric of my Type A. I didn't always adhere to my schedule, and sometimes, just sometimes, things didn't happen the way I planned. Five years later, I had four boys age 5 and under and the fabric of my Type A "perfect" life had unravelled.
I was trying desperately to be perfect. To stick with the routine I set for myself. To always have a clean house, perfect children, food cooked every day, to basically be Wonder Woman. I beat myself up about it daily, telling the reflection in the mirror how stupid, ugly and lazy I was. I worked harder and harder every day and got further behind. I was miserable and did a good job of living up to the mantra "If Mama ain't happy, ain't nobody happy."
Finally, somewhere along the way I got tired of being a failure in my eyes, and I assumed everyone else's. I gave up trying. I became a mess. All because I wanted to do it all. Now. Perfectly. And, I wanted it to stay perfect. It was a vicious cycle.
Somehow, somewhere along the way, I discovered perfect wasn't necessary. Good enough was enough. I couldn't be perfect, but I could be good enough. I was so much more fun when I discovered this. Slowing down to enjoy the boys and their mess. It could be cleaned later. We could even make a game of it and have fun cleaning. Who knew?
Coffee, food, meals together as a family were so much better enjoyed slowly, with conversation. Cleaning up can always be done after the meal is over, many hands making the work light. Roses are meant to be enjoyed. Stop and smell them. Pick one. Put it in a beautiful vase and display it. Enjoy it!
One of my teenage dreams was to live in Paris. Now, as an adult, I simply want to live somewhere with a slower pace of life. One day I realized I will never live abroad. But, why can't I adapt my life now to a slower pace of living? I use my calendar to stay on track, planning ahead so I don't have to live the rushed, hurried life I did before. I make sure to say "No" unless I am certain I want to do it.
My new attitude has given me time to do the things I truly want to do. Bible study, writing, reading, and taking care of my home and family. Cooking from scratch. Baking yeast breads. Cookies, cakes, pies from scratch. Yum. Exercise. Lunch with my husband. Travelling to see my son. Pinterest!
There are times when Type A crops out and makes me want to rush about to do it all and then some, saying "yes" to every project and committee that comes my way. But, monthly, weekly and daily planning keeps me on track, making sure I stay on my slower schedule.
I now enjoy my days and how I choose to live them. Each activity has purpose. Everything I do is intentional. I find enjoyment in having a clean home and knowing I am blessing my family. Having time to devote to my daily chores and doing them correctly instead of rushing thru them because I'm behind is an incredible feeling. One I am happy I have discovered. It's a feeling I guard closely. A way of life I embrace joyfully.
Living life intentionally. That's me. How about you? How are you living? Does it give you pleasure? Please note, I have nothing against Type A personalities. Was one myself. While part of the working world, it was quite beneficial and brought me joy. I married one. Then, when I became a Mom, for some reason it stopped bringing me joy, so I stopped. Simple as that. Well, maybe not that simple...as I said, it took years to reform.
Coffee? Yes, a full pot. I needed it today.
Ready?
I am a (somewhat) reformed Type A personality.
Are you shocked?
Are you shocked I had to go back and add the (somewhat) to the above statement? I still have the tendency to go Type A every day, thinking I need to be Wonder Woman. But, I fight it now. I like living a slower, more intentional life.
This transformation didn't happen overnight, let me assure you. It has taken years. Literally. It all started when I had my first son. Little cracks in the fabric of my Type A. I didn't always adhere to my schedule, and sometimes, just sometimes, things didn't happen the way I planned. Five years later, I had four boys age 5 and under and the fabric of my Type A "perfect" life had unravelled.
I was trying desperately to be perfect. To stick with the routine I set for myself. To always have a clean house, perfect children, food cooked every day, to basically be Wonder Woman. I beat myself up about it daily, telling the reflection in the mirror how stupid, ugly and lazy I was. I worked harder and harder every day and got further behind. I was miserable and did a good job of living up to the mantra "If Mama ain't happy, ain't nobody happy."
Finally, somewhere along the way I got tired of being a failure in my eyes, and I assumed everyone else's. I gave up trying. I became a mess. All because I wanted to do it all. Now. Perfectly. And, I wanted it to stay perfect. It was a vicious cycle.
Somehow, somewhere along the way, I discovered perfect wasn't necessary. Good enough was enough. I couldn't be perfect, but I could be good enough. I was so much more fun when I discovered this. Slowing down to enjoy the boys and their mess. It could be cleaned later. We could even make a game of it and have fun cleaning. Who knew?
Coffee, food, meals together as a family were so much better enjoyed slowly, with conversation. Cleaning up can always be done after the meal is over, many hands making the work light. Roses are meant to be enjoyed. Stop and smell them. Pick one. Put it in a beautiful vase and display it. Enjoy it!
One of my teenage dreams was to live in Paris. Now, as an adult, I simply want to live somewhere with a slower pace of life. One day I realized I will never live abroad. But, why can't I adapt my life now to a slower pace of living? I use my calendar to stay on track, planning ahead so I don't have to live the rushed, hurried life I did before. I make sure to say "No" unless I am certain I want to do it.
My new attitude has given me time to do the things I truly want to do. Bible study, writing, reading, and taking care of my home and family. Cooking from scratch. Baking yeast breads. Cookies, cakes, pies from scratch. Yum. Exercise. Lunch with my husband. Travelling to see my son. Pinterest!
There are times when Type A crops out and makes me want to rush about to do it all and then some, saying "yes" to every project and committee that comes my way. But, monthly, weekly and daily planning keeps me on track, making sure I stay on my slower schedule.
I now enjoy my days and how I choose to live them. Each activity has purpose. Everything I do is intentional. I find enjoyment in having a clean home and knowing I am blessing my family. Having time to devote to my daily chores and doing them correctly instead of rushing thru them because I'm behind is an incredible feeling. One I am happy I have discovered. It's a feeling I guard closely. A way of life I embrace joyfully.
Living life intentionally. That's me. How about you? How are you living? Does it give you pleasure? Please note, I have nothing against Type A personalities. Was one myself. While part of the working world, it was quite beneficial and brought me joy. I married one. Then, when I became a Mom, for some reason it stopped bringing me joy, so I stopped. Simple as that. Well, maybe not that simple...as I said, it took years to reform.
Coffee? Yes, a full pot. I needed it today.
Monday, October 1, 2012
October...Are You Ready?
The best laid plans of mice and men
Often go astray.
And leave us naught
But grief and pain
For promised joy.
Yes, that is a perfect description of how I feel about blogging and my intentions to do it often. And, then getting sick for over a week, allergies, a virus and a sinus infection....add a migrane AND a tension headache along with the nasty sinus headache. It was horrific. Seriously.
Even though I am on the mend, the only reason I am upright and civil is thanks to 1000 mg acetaminophen every 4 hours. Every. Four. Hours.
But, onto better topics. Otherwise I will begin to regale you with minute details of my illness. It wasn't fun or pretty. Thus, we had best move on quickly.
My Pinterest addiction is continuing and possibly increasing. I love the recipes. Something NEW to cook! Yahoo!!!!! (yelled in my best cowgirl imitation) Plus all the decorating ideas, holidays ideas, crafts, DIY projects, party ideas, funny quotes, inspirational sayings... Oh my. I lose myself for hours if I don't set a timer when I "take a quick peek"...
Yesterday (or was it Saturday) I stumbled across a new idea on Pinterest. "31 Days of Blogging about a certain topic." There is a Pinner who coordinates this project each year and links everyone's blogs on her blog (and on her pinterest board). Then you can skim thru and find the ones you are interested in reading. I have a ton of them bookmarked to read this month. As I find favorites, I will share them on my "Blogs I Read" board. :)
Until then, this is where you can find the list: http://www.thenester.com/2012/09/31-dayers-2012.html
I am reading her 31 Day blog too. It's called "Home. On Purpose." The other blogs I plan to read also center around the home. It's an area I am concentrating on at the moment. My home. Decorating, organizing, cleaning, etc. A lot of the blogs are "how to do it" blogs that also deal with how we feel about our homes. And how our homes feel to others.
As I go along on this journey during the month of October, I will share with you the changes it has made in me and my home.
I'm glad to say before seeing this 31 day blog challenge, I told my hubby I am ready to get back to putting our home together. It's time to finish decorating and "moving in". The garage is still full of yet to be unpacked boxes. Plus, there are still areas to be dealt with where I have unpacked but left everything unorganized and cluttered.
Today, finally, I purchased a small bookcase to put in the kitchen by my worktable/writing desk. All the cookbooks, binders, and papers littering the top of the table and making my entire area look completely cluttered are now neatly put away. It looks so much better!!!
Sorry, no before and after pictures tonight. But, maybe soon as there are more changes to come in there.
Coffee: Yes, lots. Lots and lots and lots. :)
Often go astray.
And leave us naught
But grief and pain
For promised joy.
Yes, that is a perfect description of how I feel about blogging and my intentions to do it often. And, then getting sick for over a week, allergies, a virus and a sinus infection....add a migrane AND a tension headache along with the nasty sinus headache. It was horrific. Seriously.
Even though I am on the mend, the only reason I am upright and civil is thanks to 1000 mg acetaminophen every 4 hours. Every. Four. Hours.
But, onto better topics. Otherwise I will begin to regale you with minute details of my illness. It wasn't fun or pretty. Thus, we had best move on quickly.
My Pinterest addiction is continuing and possibly increasing. I love the recipes. Something NEW to cook! Yahoo!!!!! (yelled in my best cowgirl imitation) Plus all the decorating ideas, holidays ideas, crafts, DIY projects, party ideas, funny quotes, inspirational sayings... Oh my. I lose myself for hours if I don't set a timer when I "take a quick peek"...
Yesterday (or was it Saturday) I stumbled across a new idea on Pinterest. "31 Days of Blogging about a certain topic." There is a Pinner who coordinates this project each year and links everyone's blogs on her blog (and on her pinterest board). Then you can skim thru and find the ones you are interested in reading. I have a ton of them bookmarked to read this month. As I find favorites, I will share them on my "Blogs I Read" board. :)
Until then, this is where you can find the list: http://www.thenester.com/2012/09/31-dayers-2012.html
I am reading her 31 Day blog too. It's called "Home. On Purpose." The other blogs I plan to read also center around the home. It's an area I am concentrating on at the moment. My home. Decorating, organizing, cleaning, etc. A lot of the blogs are "how to do it" blogs that also deal with how we feel about our homes. And how our homes feel to others.
As I go along on this journey during the month of October, I will share with you the changes it has made in me and my home.
I'm glad to say before seeing this 31 day blog challenge, I told my hubby I am ready to get back to putting our home together. It's time to finish decorating and "moving in". The garage is still full of yet to be unpacked boxes. Plus, there are still areas to be dealt with where I have unpacked but left everything unorganized and cluttered.
Today, finally, I purchased a small bookcase to put in the kitchen by my worktable/writing desk. All the cookbooks, binders, and papers littering the top of the table and making my entire area look completely cluttered are now neatly put away. It looks so much better!!!
Sorry, no before and after pictures tonight. But, maybe soon as there are more changes to come in there.
Coffee: Yes, lots. Lots and lots and lots. :)
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