tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-191740952024-03-07T23:08:52.876-05:00Meghan's Mindless MutteringMutterings about the in & outs of family life.Meghanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06421889281904919614noreply@blogger.comBlogger1214125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19174095.post-64438450437803350292015-08-07T22:59:00.001-04:002015-08-07T22:59:29.339-04:00The Photo Says It All<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjifGpC9N-hy6Ro6SKxm65b5mmWd7-UmO0Ct_E6GC7TuYPAyN8aSVW4ZQPxA4XCEtSUHm8_viiXqS5JhpPGjh_YiC5wR8Kpe8ODFm9hSczUmpsVaWQEp7V9gsNxVA1yarnPwF-l/s1600/%2523irritated.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjifGpC9N-hy6Ro6SKxm65b5mmWd7-UmO0Ct_E6GC7TuYPAyN8aSVW4ZQPxA4XCEtSUHm8_viiXqS5JhpPGjh_YiC5wR8Kpe8ODFm9hSczUmpsVaWQEp7V9gsNxVA1yarnPwF-l/s1600/%2523irritated.jpg" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Let me just start out with...I just can not take it anymore.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">What you ask?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Just certain things.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Like people who do not know the difference between isle/aisle.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Let me explain to you...an aisle is something you walk up or down or sit in.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Example "Aisle 4 is where you will find bread".</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">An isle is a small land mass surrounded by water.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I.E.:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1wpX5z3iTnQ7t5wC7kS4q_fIqli8L6JvQD2yq-iZrZZKN7T5JKH_38_Nm2JRuxkvEHaDqM58NESXKdDSR_a9_947jrhwjBNRxgCWjPBzjvst3XvXOa3xO_wwk5iRHxZ_A1RmS/s1600/%2523isle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="281" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1wpX5z3iTnQ7t5wC7kS4q_fIqli8L6JvQD2yq-iZrZZKN7T5JKH_38_Nm2JRuxkvEHaDqM58NESXKdDSR_a9_947jrhwjBNRxgCWjPBzjvst3XvXOa3xO_wwk5iRHxZ_A1RmS/s320/%2523isle.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Notice the difference yet?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">This is simple spelling & definition, peeps. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">We are talking third grade English.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Please, please, please remember the difference.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Next up...the term "My bad".</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">This is slang & it is horrendously bad slang.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">When you say "My bad". This is not a complete sentence. It is an open ended phrase.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Your bad what?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Your bad odor?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Your bad dog?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">If you made a mistake, you can say "My mistake" or perhaps "My error".</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Not "My bad".</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Please erase this phrase from your vocabulary.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Next up.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">"Bae"</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">"Bae!"</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Seriously, do the muscles of your mouth hurt that you can not continue the rest of the word.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Say it with me..."Babe".</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Nice.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I am not one for this term of endearment but it's a hell of a lot better than "Bae".</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Sounds like a cry from a goat or a sheep.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Here are two definitions for what the word means in other languages:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>In Danish it means "poop". It means "bye" in Icelandic.</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Let's take a moment to think about calling our sweetheart this so called term of endearment.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Why?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Well, you sound like a moron.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Seriously.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">A moron.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">There so much more I could go on about but I will digress.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Tell me, do you have a word/phrase that you simply can not stand?</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<span class="st_twitter_large" displaytext="Tweet"></span><span class="st_facebook_large" displaytext="Facebook"></span><span class="st_ybuzz_large" displaytext="Yahoo! Buzz"></span><span class="st_gbuzz_large" displaytext="Google Buzz"></span><span class="st_email_large" displaytext="Email"></span><span class="st_sharethis_large" displaytext="ShareThis"></span><br />Meghanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06421889281904919614noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19174095.post-60432563724756927732015-07-05T19:40:00.003-04:002015-07-05T19:40:27.387-04:00Weight Watchers: Baked Macaroni & Cheese w/ Broccoli - 8 PP<span style="font-size: large;">I made this eons ago.<span class="st_twitter_large" displaytext="Tweet"></span><span class="st_facebook_large" displaytext="Facebook"></span><span class="st_ybuzz_large" displaytext="Yahoo! Buzz"></span><span class="st_gbuzz_large" displaytext="Google Buzz"></span><span class="st_email_large" displaytext="Email"></span><span class="st_sharethis_large" displaytext="ShareThis"></span></span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">I'm talking months peeps.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Just now getting to uploading & posting.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Talk about procrastination.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Behold the product:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5uoGkIvkeWS1rFHFVPJyGm2yriIMoXLZSC9ZXofirdyMysd34-6W3VgsW79-oe4NxoT5K3uQXRyXkyetFbmpKRIIbOhSsHdbJmyJcGvqoNEaH0cnmiQcumn6b6Bw0vKZGVXHv/s1600/%2523wwbakedmacaronicheesewithbrocolli.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5uoGkIvkeWS1rFHFVPJyGm2yriIMoXLZSC9ZXofirdyMysd34-6W3VgsW79-oe4NxoT5K3uQXRyXkyetFbmpKRIIbOhSsHdbJmyJcGvqoNEaH0cnmiQcumn6b6Bw0vKZGVXHv/s400/%2523wwbakedmacaronicheesewithbrocolli.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Let's get to the details:</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Ingredients:</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">2 sprays of cooking spray</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">12 oz uncooked pasta (approx 2.5 cups)</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">1/8 tsp salt for the pasta water</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">10oz uncooked broccoli (about 2. cups)</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">1 tsp butter</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">1/3 cup breadcrumbs</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">3 tbs parm cheese (divided)</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">2.5 cups FF skim milk</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">1/3 cup flour (all purpose)</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">1/2 cup uncooked diced onion</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">1 cu low fat shredded cheddar cheese</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">1 tsp Dijon mustard</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">1 1/2 tsp salt</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">1/2 pepper</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Directions:</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Preheat oven to 375. Coat 2 quart baking dish w/ spray.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Cook pasta according to directions, adding broccoli approx 3 minutes before done. Drain pasta & broccoli & return to the pot.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Meanwhile in a large saucepan, melt butter over med. heat, add bread crumbs & cook, stirring often until light golden. You may skip this step if you are using store bought crumbs vs. fresh. Remove from heat & add 1 tbs parm cheese; set aside.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">In same saucepan (wipe clean if necessary) whisk together milk & flour until blended; add onions. Bring to a boil over med-high heat, whisking frequently. Reduce heat to low & simmer until thickened, approx 2 mins.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Remove from heat & whisk in cheddar cheese, mustard, s&p & remaining 2 tbs of parm cheese. Pour over cooked past & broccoli. Toss to mix & coat.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Transfer to baking dish & sprinkle top evenly w/ bread crumbs. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Bake until edges are bubble, about 20-25 mins.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Divide into 8 pieces & Viola! Done!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">1 piece per serving. 8pp a serving.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">My family's reaction: They liked it. My reaction: It was good but to me, too much work when I can just add some broccoli to boxed mac & cheese. Yes call me lazy but it's my blog & my opinion.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Tell me, have you made it before?</span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<span class="st_twitter_large" displaytext="Tweet"></span><span class="st_facebook_large" displaytext="Facebook"></span><span class="st_ybuzz_large" displaytext="Yahoo! Buzz"></span><span class="st_gbuzz_large" displaytext="Google Buzz"></span><span class="st_email_large" displaytext="Email"></span><span class="st_sharethis_large" displaytext="ShareThis"></span><br />Meghanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06421889281904919614noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19174095.post-42975124631317043762015-07-04T09:15:00.003-04:002015-07-04T09:15:37.692-04:00It's the 4th of July!!!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPA650y1vJAqgUi2abpXlWm0QsfMQRdy6oFDtG6-dDphM4OXkkuXT2pyljQ0ZQ1JIO7sgtvEn_tbU5smcLbpn7z0CK-iKl3E4U63CW9QxG73M3i4ZBw9SVJ3gMXhBzdLuWE7g3/s1600/%2523happy_fourth_of_july.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPA650y1vJAqgUi2abpXlWm0QsfMQRdy6oFDtG6-dDphM4OXkkuXT2pyljQ0ZQ1JIO7sgtvEn_tbU5smcLbpn7z0CK-iKl3E4U63CW9QxG73M3i4ZBw9SVJ3gMXhBzdLuWE7g3/s320/%2523happy_fourth_of_july.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Happy Birthday America.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">How are you spending the birth of our country?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">If you aren't an American, tell me how you are enjoying this Saturday.</span>
<span class="st_twitter_large" displaytext="Tweet"></span><span class="st_facebook_large" displaytext="Facebook"></span><span class="st_ybuzz_large" displaytext="Yahoo! Buzz"></span><span class="st_gbuzz_large" displaytext="Google Buzz"></span><span class="st_email_large" displaytext="Email"></span><span class="st_sharethis_large" displaytext="ShareThis"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>Meghanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06421889281904919614noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19174095.post-66010694032456131252015-06-11T21:50:00.000-04:002015-06-11T21:50:17.480-04:00Is this thing on??? Hello?<span style="font-size: large;">Does anyone read this little old blog of mine?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The corner of the internet that I claim?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Well, if you do, you may wonder where I disappeared to.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">This might give you a clue:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtIaSNOCIxqKAAR6KVQlNzm_PEkdf7lXIMs_Z0X2s_gmuKBb7biFPbp7g4NoflRiMm69IewBfCYxPoq7Rp4SIHWuSZ9zLd0T69CutYIuG30CxaT3GHVX2Wl_ijMDtblOpL4tIy/s1600/%2523toughtimes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="233" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtIaSNOCIxqKAAR6KVQlNzm_PEkdf7lXIMs_Z0X2s_gmuKBb7biFPbp7g4NoflRiMm69IewBfCYxPoq7Rp4SIHWuSZ9zLd0T69CutYIuG30CxaT3GHVX2Wl_ijMDtblOpL4tIy/s400/%2523toughtimes.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">All I will say is it's been rough the last 6/7 weeks.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I will get through it.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I am having my up days, my down days.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I'm not sick, either is anyone in the family.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">The family is, how shall I say broken.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Vague? Perhaps. I do not want to air semi-dirty laundry on the world wide web. Know what I mean, Vern?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I am still doing Weight Watchers. I will post a great recipe soon.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Cheeks is doing great in school.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Summer is really here & we are looking forward to going to Disney at the end of it.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">As much as I want the vaca to come, that will mean the end of summer & I will have a 4th grader.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Where did my 11 pounder go? The big blue eyes & the fat cheeks!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">He's grown into the class clown.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">That's where.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">He got voted that today.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">So proud. Ha!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I hope you will stick around & see what is to come.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Leave me a comment if you still read MMM.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I'd love to know you are out there.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">With that, I'm out!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="st_twitter_large" displaytext="Tweet"></span><span class="st_facebook_large" displaytext="Facebook"></span><span class="st_ybuzz_large" displaytext="Yahoo! Buzz"></span><span class="st_gbuzz_large" displaytext="Google Buzz"></span><span class="st_email_large" displaytext="Email"></span><span class="st_sharethis_large" displaytext="ShareThis"></span><br />Meghanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06421889281904919614noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19174095.post-70903389006051551142015-04-14T20:42:00.004-04:002015-04-14T20:42:53.185-04:00Weight Watchers Lasagna...YUM!<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I am sure as most of you have guessed by now, I am doing WW.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">My sister called me up the beginning of February & asked if I would join with her.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">On a whim, I said sure.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">So glad I did.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I found out that before I had even started I lost 30lbs. Since I have been a member, I've lost 16.6.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Grand total...46.6 lbs.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Holla!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Well, I love to use recipes to help with the new lifestyle and this recipe is to die for!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Plus, make it in the crockpot.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Holla, again!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Not to mention, Tuttorossa sent me a nice sample pack of some great canned tomatoes. It included:</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">28 oz Tuttorosso Crushed with Basil, Tuttorosso NSA Peeled Plum and Tuttorosso Diced Tomatoes. </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I was excited to get them, as I grew up with Tuttorossa products.</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">They have actually teamed with<a href="http://www.inspiralized.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Inspiralized.com </a>for some fun.</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Check out their Facebook promo: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/tuttorossotomato" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Tuttorossa Tomatoes</a>.</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">You can win so many different things. Check out what the grand prize is:</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Spiralizer, Inspiralized Book, Apron, Picnic Basket and Kitchen Gadgets.</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Nice.</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Here's the catch, it ends tomorrow.</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">So, quick, check it out.</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Now, onto my 7pt serving Lasagna.</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I got the recipe from Weight Watchers.</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">First gather your ingredients:</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4bOBfhrwUwHZFlbjHi18EBKz1F1A5o-8v_yYHGYVaV5my8daiQ3Vn6VfTde6xEuEm3OK-wvub7jDiDOomjDYXjzhOl2AqSChhZRq9RGXokI4K9pGtUd-BMp843wwEI7nM0Yxe/s1600/%23wwlasagnaingredients.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4bOBfhrwUwHZFlbjHi18EBKz1F1A5o-8v_yYHGYVaV5my8daiQ3Vn6VfTde6xEuEm3OK-wvub7jDiDOomjDYXjzhOl2AqSChhZRq9RGXokI4K9pGtUd-BMp843wwEI7nM0Yxe/s1600/%23wwlasagnaingredients.jpg" height="223" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<ul class="ww-r-info" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 18px; list-style-type: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 10px; padding: 7px 0px;">
<li itemprop="ingredients" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(219, 216, 206); border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1px; margin: 0px -10px; padding: 5px 0px;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> <span id="ucRecipePreparation_rptrIngrediants_tdIngredientsItemRight_0" width="100%">1 pound(s) uncooked 93% lean ground beef (I used ground turkey & no one in my fam knew the difference).</span></span></li>
<li itemprop="ingredients" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(219, 216, 206); border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1px; margin: 0px -10px; padding: 5px 0px;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> <span id="ucRecipePreparation_rptrIngrediants_tdIngredientsItemRight_1" width="100%">1 small uncooked onion(s), chopped </span></span></li>
<li itemprop="ingredients" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(219, 216, 206); border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1px; margin: 0px -10px; padding: 5px 0px;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 clove(s) (medium) garlic clove(s), minced </span></li>
<li itemprop="ingredients" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(219, 216, 206); border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1px; margin: 0px -10px; padding: 5px 0px;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> <span id="ucRecipePreparation_rptrIngrediants_tdIngredientsItemRight_3" width="100%">28 oz canned crushed tomatoes </span></span></li>
<li itemprop="ingredients" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(219, 216, 206); border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1px; margin: 0px -10px; padding: 5px 0px;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> <span id="ucRecipePreparation_rptrIngrediants_tdIngredientsItemRight_4" width="100%">15 oz canned tomato sauce </span></span></li>
<li itemprop="ingredients" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(219, 216, 206); border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1px; margin: 0px -10px; padding: 5px 0px;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> <span id="ucRecipePreparation_rptrIngrediants_tdIngredientsItemRight_5" width="100%">1 tsp table salt </span></span></li>
<li itemprop="ingredients" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(219, 216, 206); border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1px; margin: 0px -10px; padding: 5px 0px;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 tsp dried oregano </span></li>
<li itemprop="ingredients" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(219, 216, 206); border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1px; margin: 0px -10px; padding: 5px 0px;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">1/2 tsp dried basil </span></li>
<li itemprop="ingredients" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(219, 216, 206); border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1px; margin: 0px -10px; padding: 5px 0px;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> <span id="ucRecipePreparation_rptrIngrediants_tdIngredientsItemRight_8" width="100%">1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes, or to taste </span></span></li>
<li itemprop="ingredients" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(219, 216, 206); border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1px; margin: 0px -10px; padding: 5px 0px;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 cup(s) part-skim ricotta cheese </span></li>
<li itemprop="ingredients" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(219, 216, 206); border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1px; margin: 0px -10px; padding: 5px 0px;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> <span id="ucRecipePreparation_rptrIngrediants_tdIngredientsItemRight_10" width="100%">1 1/2 cup(s) shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese, divided </span></span></li>
<li itemprop="ingredients" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(219, 216, 206); border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1px; margin: 0px -10px; padding: 5px 0px;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">6 item(s) uncooked lasagna noodles (I used Healthy Harvest)</span></li>
<li itemprop="ingredients" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(219, 216, 206); border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1px; margin: 0px -10px; padding: 5px 0px;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> <span class="td-no-btm-brd" id="ucRecipePreparation_rptrIngrediants_tdIngredientsItemRight_12" width="100%">1/2 cup(s) shredded parmesan cheese, strong-flavored like Parmigiano Reggiano </span></span></li>
</ul>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;">After you have gathered your ingredients & your slow cooker, start your engines & get ready to make a great lasagna.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></span>
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<ul style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 18px; list-style-type: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 10px; padding: 7px 0px;">
<li><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add beef, onion and garlic; cook, stirring frequently, breaking up meat with a wooden spoon as it cooks, about 5 to 7 minutes. </span></li>
</ul>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6CwOe-DWEYql1khZSEHcPcUDcyzYhnlx6lGcSdZaIuZ4mVOkqNw8suVxekBN0BzCciSCuZlaZD04EsCzJkyyuuBf8Qe_iP4cXHO-OIKuKGiUCWIhJEeXOeJxsc1ATS3FdLrIl/s1600/%23wwlasagna1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6CwOe-DWEYql1khZSEHcPcUDcyzYhnlx6lGcSdZaIuZ4mVOkqNw8suVxekBN0BzCciSCuZlaZD04EsCzJkyyuuBf8Qe_iP4cXHO-OIKuKGiUCWIhJEeXOeJxsc1ATS3FdLrIl/s1600/%23wwlasagna1.jpg" height="223" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<ul style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 18px; list-style-type: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 10px; padding: 7px 0px;">
<li><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, salt, oregano, basil and red pepper flakes; simmer 5 minutes to allow flavors to blend.</span></li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZcOxITxEGtw_8xkl5O5cDPmKW6XRW8HIGiH12YzByq3eqh4nZcIx7x0W21Dyc-7rAZd91TrIEGbMfvUY8nyPoIE67G-Yxr4exm3U5ihMqqCKmCbwdDIGMVuKCY_tCN01ZP8-5/s1600/%23wwlasagna2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZcOxITxEGtw_8xkl5O5cDPmKW6XRW8HIGiH12YzByq3eqh4nZcIx7x0W21Dyc-7rAZd91TrIEGbMfvUY8nyPoIE67G-Yxr4exm3U5ihMqqCKmCbwdDIGMVuKCY_tCN01ZP8-5/s1600/%23wwlasagna2.jpg" height="223" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<ul style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 18px; list-style-type: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 10px; padding: 7px 0px;">
<li><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, stir together ricotta cheese and 1 cup of mozzarella cheese. </span></li>
</ul>
</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaQDBR_euN6KzG9YyJnZMXzDgA9aDjxreoduH7rz8l-MwR_vZeU_tlHkdqZC_3XXQurtYojlzWPbj0jO1HpkfVmS3JW2jSdr5TB5ADg1FX9EPELURyd4ureSu07sGRP08w3bVL/s1600/%23wwlasagna3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaQDBR_euN6KzG9YyJnZMXzDgA9aDjxreoduH7rz8l-MwR_vZeU_tlHkdqZC_3XXQurtYojlzWPbj0jO1HpkfVmS3JW2jSdr5TB5ADg1FX9EPELURyd4ureSu07sGRP08w3bVL/s1600/%23wwlasagna3.jpg" height="223" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<ul style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 18px; list-style-type: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 10px; padding: 7px 0px;">
<li><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Spoon 1/3 of beef mixture into a 5-quart slow cooker. Break 3 lasagna sheets in half and arrange over beef mixture; top with half of ricotta mixture. Repeat with another layer and finish with remaining 1/3 of beef mixture.</span></li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLwt42H0e-B3zTKjusiz-BGVR_wCCSk82EFkU_Xyfm5zDNKiAukNxJ7m947kq2EFHWCRHOW0IaCCj-4OfAhyZ6Zbwl2RxFw5ZzmwHfVZl7AeSsDykOGNCjZ8z9g0Wj2g3s8czj/s1600/%23wwlasagna4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLwt42H0e-B3zTKjusiz-BGVR_wCCSk82EFkU_Xyfm5zDNKiAukNxJ7m947kq2EFHWCRHOW0IaCCj-4OfAhyZ6Zbwl2RxFw5ZzmwHfVZl7AeSsDykOGNCjZ8z9g0Wj2g3s8czj/s1600/%23wwlasagna4.jpg" height="223" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Cover slow cooker and cook on low setting for 4 to 6 hours. Remove cover; turn off heat and season to taste, if desired.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">In a small bowl, combine remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese; sprinkle over beef mixture. Cover and set aside until cheese melts and lasagna firms up, about 10 minutes. Yields 1/6th of dish per serving.</span></li>
</ul>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlAN13wCmtYu4E8LFiAxtP6ssL6-yTmKlOh9FFJHZYjJH4wV06bSyTM5P9a9IltqaVS_Kn4PtvMvOGYC43iQEtIUozRfs8BnYwPGIonkgomsu9u6PU9oC50Af5cFj1l7w5XG69/s1600/%23wwlasagnafinishedproduct.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlAN13wCmtYu4E8LFiAxtP6ssL6-yTmKlOh9FFJHZYjJH4wV06bSyTM5P9a9IltqaVS_Kn4PtvMvOGYC43iQEtIUozRfs8BnYwPGIonkgomsu9u6PU9oC50Af5cFj1l7w5XG69/s1600/%23wwlasagnafinishedproduct.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">This is the finished product.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">It is good.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">Now for the point value...if you cut it into 1/8" slices, it's 7 points. If you give yourself a larger portion, count it as 10.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">I'm telling you this is worth it!!!!</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">Tell me, how do you cook your lasagna?</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<span class="st_twitter_large" displaytext="Tweet"></span><span class="st_facebook_large" displaytext="Facebook"></span><span class="st_ybuzz_large" displaytext="Yahoo! Buzz"></span><span class="st_gbuzz_large" displaytext="Google Buzz"></span><span class="st_email_large" displaytext="Email"></span><span class="st_sharethis_large" displaytext="ShareThis"></span><br />Meghanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06421889281904919614noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19174095.post-16220431898784622232015-04-12T23:00:00.003-04:002015-04-12T23:00:37.885-04:00The Maze Runner Series by James Dashner<span style="font-size: large;">I know it's April.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Believe it or not, I have been reading.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Avidly.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I just finished this series:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhqaJJp3zGafU6MaAKWB5wkyHDFiGW-1jcsh5Hng3sBddHyMKnrEOP0ipyg_UFhFwMIzCkzYj0rpPdA19i8q0pXwPwdNi-S83pme-cRVbDfPX4JYqU0-3WSlOPhcFlztng6tUv/s1600/%23mazerunner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhqaJJp3zGafU6MaAKWB5wkyHDFiGW-1jcsh5Hng3sBddHyMKnrEOP0ipyg_UFhFwMIzCkzYj0rpPdA19i8q0pXwPwdNi-S83pme-cRVbDfPX4JYqU0-3WSlOPhcFlztng6tUv/s1600/%23mazerunner.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">These are YA. Young Adult. What great books. Loved each one except for The Kill Order. It's the prequel, which was written after the first three. While a good story, the ending was meh.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I first gained interest in these novels after watching "The Maze Runner" on demand. The movie was ok but I thought the book has to be better.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">It was. Tons of details, delves into the characters and much more plot. I find this to usually be the way, books are better than movies.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Each book kept me on the edge of the my seat. When Death Cure ended, I thought to myself "I am so glad I read these". A coworker had seen what I was reading and told me he thought they were great. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">The story is based in post apocolyptic Earth. Sun flares have caused much of the human race to die off and the ones left behind are fighting "The Flare". Of course, there is a coalition that is trying to find a cure. They are doing test by dropping unsuspecting teen boys (with their memories erased) into a Maze. They will use their finding to see how the brain works which will help with the antidote for "The Flare". </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">The author shows how young men, put in a precarious position, work, live and sleep together. How they form their own society, their own rules, their own punishments. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">All four books are an easy read. I would say two thumbs up on all but the prequel. I give that one, one and a half thumbs up. I really detested the wrap up!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Tell me, what are you reading?</span><br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<span class="st_twitter_large" displaytext="Tweet"></span><span class="st_facebook_large" displaytext="Facebook"></span><span class="st_ybuzz_large" displaytext="Yahoo! Buzz"></span><span class="st_gbuzz_large" displaytext="Google Buzz"></span><span class="st_email_large" displaytext="Email"></span><span class="st_sharethis_large" displaytext="ShareThis"></span><br />Meghanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06421889281904919614noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19174095.post-70047523691503237862015-03-29T13:54:00.003-04:002015-03-29T13:55:11.876-04:00Weight Watchers Skinny Italian Chicken Stew<span style="font-size: large;">I have found a mecca & it is called Skinny Italian Chicken Stew.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Guess what else?<br />Made in the slow cooker.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Oh yea!!!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Really?<br />Skinny?<br />Slow Cooker?</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'm in.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">First gather your ingredients & your slow cooker like so:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhKcC0MCou_KrCYfD89FJrXdKAMNtLjMdbk83iJAohB7S90Zb387mgHBqSLZMp90LWwnm5LXJHq-04fh4HU2aikKqUOKl1zEwDF9PC4XAyDL57lUEkCI0hcV2vUJQe5VKtLMxo/s1600/%23weightwatcheritalianchickeningredients.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhKcC0MCou_KrCYfD89FJrXdKAMNtLjMdbk83iJAohB7S90Zb387mgHBqSLZMp90LWwnm5LXJHq-04fh4HU2aikKqUOKl1zEwDF9PC4XAyDL57lUEkCI0hcV2vUJQe5VKtLMxo/s1600/%23weightwatcheritalianchickeningredients.jpg" height="223" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Here is what you will need:</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Chicken Sausage - 3 links </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Spaghetti Sauce - 2 cups</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Yukon Gold Potatoes - 1 pound</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Peppers - 2</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Garlic - Minced - 1tbs</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">First up, the prep.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Slice chicken sausage into slices & then dices if you wish.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Dice peppers.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Cut potatoes into equal bite sized pieces.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Second:</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Dump all in the slow cooker, do not forget your garlic.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Third:</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Add 2 cups spaghetti sauce (any flavor)</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Stir together & it shall look like so:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1DIIH0kVw_guvZ4DGi-CGd46JIXa35NPoPhXpoaCVKSeLIJeqK2_q_MUVVzbiINDP_awFvHoATilfZqagfw9eCDeWopd3cM2F3JJCK9i2YgDoF5OtUdwAmdePZTCXRiOpf0E1/s1600/%23weightwatcheritalianchickenmixed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1DIIH0kVw_guvZ4DGi-CGd46JIXa35NPoPhXpoaCVKSeLIJeqK2_q_MUVVzbiINDP_awFvHoATilfZqagfw9eCDeWopd3cM2F3JJCK9i2YgDoF5OtUdwAmdePZTCXRiOpf0E1/s1600/%23weightwatcheritalianchickenmixed.jpg" height="400" width="223" /></span></a></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Turn your slow cooker on for 6 hours & forget about it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">I have made this twice and I take it for my lunch.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">It is yummy!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">This is what you will get when all done:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEs8pCLFOO-cz8vBmyhUu7IjrCRtKoBXjcok1UR5HDT5xEdKhIrQMHrexnDY03qXNaJGagFbAIkNclBp9N3Ym1yNCcXVIsvNcYcIQQ0WKCJS1-WeA25Bjd29-QpO3aVT3Jp_ai/s1600/%23weightwatcheritalianchickenfinished.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEs8pCLFOO-cz8vBmyhUu7IjrCRtKoBXjcok1UR5HDT5xEdKhIrQMHrexnDY03qXNaJGagFbAIkNclBp9N3Ym1yNCcXVIsvNcYcIQQ0WKCJS1-WeA25Bjd29-QpO3aVT3Jp_ai/s1600/%23weightwatcheritalianchickenfinished.jpg" height="223" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">It's 7 pp for one cup.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">I usually have a cheese stick with it (1 pp) & some fruit.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">You can even have a side salad.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">I am telling you this is the bomb diggity (yes, yes, I just went old school).</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Tell me, what is one of your fave recipes?</span></div>
<span class="st_twitter_large" displaytext="Tweet"></span><span class="st_facebook_large" displaytext="Facebook"></span><span class="st_ybuzz_large" displaytext="Yahoo! Buzz"></span><span class="st_gbuzz_large" displaytext="Google Buzz"></span><span class="st_email_large" displaytext="Email"></span><span class="st_sharethis_large" displaytext="ShareThis"></span><br />
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<br />Meghanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06421889281904919614noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19174095.post-92167094753309293012015-03-15T15:09:00.003-04:002015-03-15T15:10:46.538-04:00Weight Watchers Inspired: Healthy Chicken Parm Dinner - 8 Points.<span style="font-size: large;">I think I took an unintended blogging hiatus.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Didn't mean to, just haven't had anything to write about really.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Unless you want to hear about this fabulous customer service classes I have to take at work.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">*crickets*</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Yea, I thought so.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Anyway, I made this great dish from <a href="http://realfoodforhealthykids.com/about-tanya-tracey/" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta;">Real Food For Healthy Kids</span></a>. I bought this book a few years ago as a birthday present to myself. Not only do I want my kids to eat healthy, but as parents we could benefit from it as well.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The nice thing is each recipe comes with the nutritional value.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Yes.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Easy to do your "points" if you do Weight Watchers or just monitor your intake of values.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Let's get on to the good part.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">The ingredients:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">1/4C. Unbleached All Purpose Flour (I used all purpose, if it was unbleached or not, I have no idea!)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1/2 tsp Kosher Salt</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1/4 tsp Pepper</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1lb. Thin Chicken Breast Cutlet ( I pounded mine out with the back of a weighted ice cream scoop...best kitchen hack ever!)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">3TBP EVOO</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1C. Canned Low-Sodium Chicken Broth</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1.5C. Packed Mozzarella Cheese (6oz.)(I used Fat Free)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1/2C. Marina Sauce (You can used jarred or make your own...I am of the Irish/Scottish decent so my sauce comes from a jar...must to the dismay of the Nana...she can actually make her own thanks to the influence of the Italian neighbors growing up!).</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Now the actually recipe:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">1. Combine the flour, salt & pepper in a gallon size plastic bag, seal & shake to mix. Add about 1/3 of the chicken & shake to coat. Remove chicken, lightly shake off excess flour & lay flat plate. Repeat with other chicken.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">2. Heat 1.5TBS EVOO in a non-stick 12" skillet over med heat until hot. Add half the chicken & cook until browned underneath, about 2 mins. Turn, cook another 2 mins & transfer the chicken to a plate. Add the remaining 1.5TBS EVOO & chicken, repeat.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">It will look like this:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsbKDDqHQoqUUkBDGuVKIj1MfA_SYxz1vX8NowchXuBkuAHaMPtA66ZdFbC78sRZ6luBnLbwbBRkv2g3YXAiBhX_azL_NcB1AUxN-jfuydfSppfCDo59sQNPMZiVnnOabav131/s1600/%23prechickenparm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsbKDDqHQoqUUkBDGuVKIj1MfA_SYxz1vX8NowchXuBkuAHaMPtA66ZdFbC78sRZ6luBnLbwbBRkv2g3YXAiBhX_azL_NcB1AUxN-jfuydfSppfCDo59sQNPMZiVnnOabav131/s1600/%23prechickenparm.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">3. Pour off any remaining fat in the skillet & add the chicken broth to the pan. Bring to a boil & cook until reduced by half (about 3 mins). Return the meat to the pan & turn to coat in the broth. Arrange the cutlets in an even layer, sprinkle the mozzarella on top & spoon a lil sauce on top. Cover the pan with lid or foil (I did foil) & cook until cheese is melted (1-2 mins). </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">4. Transfer to plate, add garnish if you wish & serve.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I served mine w/ a side of broccoli. Always a veggie people, always a veggie.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhXjp40P2q_V41wx0D6f1dnymvFVsljk-LRPuBY3sX09mau1zvDN9o0ltAxxvp_pDxcqIWpul1Xdcb3xJHWfjv2wuJeTo3c9U9waq1-qFzNJUUjTw8tNrMcqLOPBqitL7UG2sW/s1600/%23chickenparmfinished.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhXjp40P2q_V41wx0D6f1dnymvFVsljk-LRPuBY3sX09mau1zvDN9o0ltAxxvp_pDxcqIWpul1Xdcb3xJHWfjv2wuJeTo3c9U9waq1-qFzNJUUjTw8tNrMcqLOPBqitL7UG2sW/s1600/%23chickenparmfinished.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Everyone loved it.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Cheeks raved about it & called it pizza chicken.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">When his brother came home, he told him "Chris, you have to try this pizza chicken, it is delicious"</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">And for you counting points...it's 8points a breast.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">One breast for me was more than enough.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">It is so good.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">This dish will not disappoint!!!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Tell me something you make that is healthy.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Leave me a quick recipe in the comments. If I make it, I will post it.</span><br />
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<br />
<span class="st_twitter_large" displaytext="Tweet"></span><span class="st_facebook_large" displaytext="Facebook"></span><span class="st_ybuzz_large" displaytext="Yahoo! Buzz"></span><span class="st_gbuzz_large" displaytext="Google Buzz"></span><span class="st_email_large" displaytext="Email"></span><span class="st_sharethis_large" displaytext="ShareThis"></span><br />Meghanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06421889281904919614noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19174095.post-10745080477295656932015-02-01T19:46:00.002-05:002015-02-01T19:46:33.351-05:002015 Goals...Are you on track?<span style="font-size: large;">So, it's officially one month down in 2015.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">February 1st is upon us.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Super Bowl Sunday.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Shortest month of the year.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">My question to you is, how are you doing on your 2015 resolutions/goals?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">We are doing ok.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Our main goal is to save money to pay off the debt to save money again.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQYDwyJHW2avpGhnPr84PpTltH145YpuLvWMxVg3on_NPFldtO3x10AGPYrMZOss4O86zGZJ2yQeGgo2bQk2x-P8LvAaPdCqKeF9FujhByHuo1waZoQCCB9O67-HKqxIWcN2yB/s1600/%23money.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQYDwyJHW2avpGhnPr84PpTltH145YpuLvWMxVg3on_NPFldtO3x10AGPYrMZOss4O86zGZJ2yQeGgo2bQk2x-P8LvAaPdCqKeF9FujhByHuo1waZoQCCB9O67-HKqxIWcN2yB/s1600/%23money.jpg" height="154" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">I think a lot of people are doing this goal.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">We took the month of January on like bulls in a china shop.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Not going to lie tho, we did send out for pizza approximately 4 times. One of those times was completely free except for the tip. SCORE!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Other than that, our biggest money drainer is eating out. So I have been meal planning and buying breakfast & lunch items for us.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Those are my two downfalls. It is just so much easier to stop & pick up, then have to think about & make to bring. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">We were able to pay off a huge chunk of our cable bill. I let it go.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Next is our electric bill. Eek! I don't even want to look at it.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I have applied to lower my car payment per month. The van is just sitting out back...dead.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Waiting to get my taxes back so I can get it fixed.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Fingers crossed it isn't more than my tax refund.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Haven't done much of anything that cost money. The weather is so awful, between snow, rain & bitter cold, we don't want to go anywhere anyway. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Hopefully February will be just as good as January was to us.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I went shopping today. Even with great deals and coupons, I still spent $170.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Boys, they eat you out of house and home. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Well, tell me, how are you doing with your goals & resolutions?</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<span class="st_twitter_large" displaytext="Tweet"></span><span class="st_facebook_large" displaytext="Facebook"></span><span class="st_ybuzz_large" displaytext="Yahoo! Buzz"></span><span class="st_gbuzz_large" displaytext="Google Buzz"></span><span class="st_email_large" displaytext="Email"></span><span class="st_sharethis_large" displaytext="ShareThis"></span>Meghanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06421889281904919614noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19174095.post-26606309053881750982015-01-18T11:42:00.000-05:002015-01-18T11:44:34.668-05:00An Amish Second Christmas by Beth Wiseman, Kathleen Fuller, Ruth Reid, & Tricia Goyer<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghEapNToXg7cftTy5enMDzXRYbMHHqn8fMgkZMUL-Im-RcwtQw7cGUR97Qaf4lBMQmswCf_3SICUYqyw3M7iXVAXLT4bM5wBVZgZuMd0iyq9qgDYOr9i5kQRin_dOJ5RrY9uZg/s1600/%23anamishsecondchristmas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghEapNToXg7cftTy5enMDzXRYbMHHqn8fMgkZMUL-Im-RcwtQw7cGUR97Qaf4lBMQmswCf_3SICUYqyw3M7iXVAXLT4bM5wBVZgZuMd0iyq9qgDYOr9i5kQRin_dOJ5RrY9uZg/s1600/%23anamishsecondchristmas.jpg" height="400" width="273" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">An Amish Second Christmas is a book of novellas by four different authors.
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Let me start out by saying what a refreshing change this book was from most of the books I have read lately.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Not that the other books were trashy, by no means! These stories are just as sweet, wholesome and tasteful as can be.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">I was fortunate enough to win this book in a contest held on a blog.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Don't ask me which one, I have forgotten. Side effects from being mid-forties.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">At first I didn't think I would enjoy the four short stories but I quickly learned I was wrong.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">All about the Amish's celebration of the day after Christmas, Second Christmas. Such sweet stories of tradition with a whole love story told. I was surprised to see all authors make reference to the young couples spending time alone and sharing a kiss. It made me think of the Duggars. Their daughters have to side hug and save kisses til the wedding day. I tthought, there is wholesome and there is WHOLESOME! I like the Duggars, so no flaming please.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">While all the stories are predictable, they are full of the scenery that you imagine (and if you have ever been to an Amish country, it is even more vivid), family and God. None of which is thrown down your throat.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Each story in unique and makes you want more. Makes you want to know how they go one and live their lives.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Definitely a good snuggle under the blanket with a cup of cocoa in one hand & this book in another.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">It's a must read.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Tell me, what are you reading currently?</span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<span class="st_twitter_large" displaytext="Tweet"></span><span class="st_facebook_large" displaytext="Facebook"></span><span class="st_ybuzz_large" displaytext="Yahoo! Buzz"></span><span class="st_gbuzz_large" displaytext="Google Buzz"></span><span class="st_email_large" displaytext="Email"></span><span class="st_sharethis_large" displaytext="ShareThis"></span><br />Meghanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06421889281904919614noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19174095.post-34868592422898872582015-01-12T20:18:00.000-05:002015-01-12T20:19:06.228-05:00January #EatInChallenge Win Some Lose Some<span style="font-size: large;">Hey, before I forgot, don't forget about the giveaway going on.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Check it out here: <a href="http://meghansmindlessmuttering.blogspot.com/2015/01/january-eatinchallenge-giveaway-25.html" target="_blank">Eat In Challenge Giveaway</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">So let's get down to business.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">We have been doing really great eating at home for our Buchman Back on Track Financially philosophy. We eat out way to much and I have already seen the kind of money we are saving.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Last night I made a kick ass meatloaf. Both Bob & I thought it was wonderful. We had two plates full & I took leftovers with me for lunch.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Today, dinner was a use what is in the freezer/fridge/pantry night.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">So decided on Crockpot Italian Chicken.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The original recipe is from <a href="http://www.sixsistersstuff.com/" target="_blank">Six Sisters</a>. If you haven't visited the website, run. They have fab recipes plus great ideas.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">My version may vary slightly from theirs.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Ingredients:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Chicken Breasts (roughly 2lbs)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Packet of Italian Dressing</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Block of Cream Cheese (I did low fat)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">2 10.5oz Cans of Cream of Chicken Soup. (Also low fat)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">You put the chicken in the crockpot, sprinkle the dressing over.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Then heat up the cream cheese & soup til blended.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Pour over chicken, cook 8hrs.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">You then leave whole or shred. I chose leave whole.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">You can serve over noodles or rice. Noodles was a winner.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">See:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxCLjGHAHpu0mga13RLOXJeXrzhLG_l-KxLfaS4sOHOgUPzKk6-fBa1ibSTC6mkSEtViRQDBJX4bpEXw3jiXumbnzwynq7vmA4hnLRF_XNDHQ_ZWpLebyozd1o5-aYG-ahCWjk/s1600/%23italianchickencrockpot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxCLjGHAHpu0mga13RLOXJeXrzhLG_l-KxLfaS4sOHOgUPzKk6-fBa1ibSTC6mkSEtViRQDBJX4bpEXw3jiXumbnzwynq7vmA4hnLRF_XNDHQ_ZWpLebyozd1o5-aYG-ahCWjk/s1600/%23italianchickencrockpot.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">It's sort of all one color.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">I won't tell you what I think the sauce looks like, actually what the whole meal looks like.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">I was super excited to make this.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Matter of fact I think I made it before but I can't remember.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Anyway I took a fork, put that meal bite into my mouth and thought:</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">"OMG! What have I done!"</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">While not horrendously horrible, it ranked up there as an Epic Fail meal.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">It was a bit on the bland side. Bobster & the kids added hot sauce and said it made it edible.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">So, you may give it a try, perhaps you will like it but in our home...never again!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Tell me do you have any meals you were excited about & then whomp! whomp! Let down!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Let me know.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
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<span class="st_twitter_large" displaytext="Tweet"></span><span class="st_facebook_large" displaytext="Facebook"></span><span class="st_ybuzz_large" displaytext="Yahoo! Buzz"></span><span class="st_gbuzz_large" displaytext="Google Buzz"></span><span class="st_email_large" displaytext="Email"></span><span class="st_sharethis_large" displaytext="ShareThis"></span><br />Meghanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06421889281904919614noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19174095.post-26846559252919750512015-01-08T20:33:00.000-05:002015-01-08T20:33:14.464-05:00January #EatInChallenge & Giveaway $25 Amazon Gift Card<span style="font-size: large;">As I said in my first post for this #Eat In Challenge, it came at a perfect time because my family is on a strict no eating out/taking out/picking up budget. If it's no already in the kitchen, you aren't eating or drinking it!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Finances are rough but we will do it.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">My husband is totally on board & I was surprised by that, but he likes to keep me guessing.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Anyway the other night, I made a smaller version of our family fav...baked ziti.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Everyone has their own recipe.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Ingredients:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Sauce (I used jarred much to the Nana's chagrin but hey, it works!)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Shredded mozzarella cheese 8oz bag</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Ricotta Cheese (Part skim) 8oz</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Egg - 1</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Parmesan Cheese</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">S&P</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Of course, pasta. I tend to use Ziti or Penne but once I used elbow mac's & Bobster took a shine to it.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Boil the pasta for just a minute or two under the suggested time.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">It will cook more when you bake it.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">While the pasta is boiling away, mix the ricotta cheese, egg & S&P, in a bowl til fluffy.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Once the pasta is done, drain & throw back in the pot. (Less dishes to do).</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Toss in the ricotta cheese & however much sauce you like. We only like a smidge or a tinge. Just enough to make it lightly pink.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Stir it up. Add more s&p if you deem necessary.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Then add most of the mozzarella (leave a little for the topping).</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Once all mixed up, pour into a greased 8x8 dish.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Pour some mozzarella cheese on top, shake some parm on top as well. Adds a great flavor mix.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">It will look like this:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8MJh9nX8aoqm7d9avprRsXxM6mv_yBWMTd3RVZ-58W5A7QeuPoswH6nOYDmnD-49uIwDIkU65kyZ-IFIZjM570Zdh-_ygyOgjmoRMOU9Q216uiLHOpydaXIAwKVkgrsVVTudV/s1600/%23bakedzitibefore.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8MJh9nX8aoqm7d9avprRsXxM6mv_yBWMTd3RVZ-58W5A7QeuPoswH6nOYDmnD-49uIwDIkU65kyZ-IFIZjM570Zdh-_ygyOgjmoRMOU9Q216uiLHOpydaXIAwKVkgrsVVTudV/s1600/%23bakedzitibefore.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Place in the oven & bake for 30-35 mins. Depending on how brown you like your cheese.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">It will come out looking like this:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhER8W8Dj8l0Dbhyw8qcj2Dnj16xQgA8vzTCLszC6rXDRb6jGX0fKG0Fg75dG8YKoioGHnL6uOOXBfULps24Y7HmnxCn5jQ0xNhhIveyKT3YcTjS6XyVSzop74Qfc2zDCSn2NQZ/s1600/%23bakedzitiafter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhER8W8Dj8l0Dbhyw8qcj2Dnj16xQgA8vzTCLszC6rXDRb6jGX0fKG0Fg75dG8YKoioGHnL6uOOXBfULps24Y7HmnxCn5jQ0xNhhIveyKT3YcTjS6XyVSzop74Qfc2zDCSn2NQZ/s1600/%23bakedzitiafter.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Easy Peasy, Mozzarella Cheesy!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">45 mins start to finish.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Delish.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">This fed Bob & I that night (Cheeks ate plain noodles & Chris was at his mom's house). I even had leftovers for my lunch the next day. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">This can be made super cheap as well. Just watch the sales.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Now onto the good stuff.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">The GIVEAWAY.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Oh yea.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I am participating in & you get the chance to win.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Check it out.</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://networkingwitches.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/January-Eat-In-Challenge.png"><img alt="January Eat In Challenge" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-42178" src="http://networkingwitches.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/January-Eat-In-Challenge.png" height="1281" width="1097" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;">
Networking Perks is challenging more families to eat at home with the Eat At Home Challenge. Sitting down and eating together as a family is important; we take this time to disconnect from all the daily noise, technology, and social media, while reconnecting as a family. Meal time is also important that we provide delicious and nutritious meals to eat. Finding the balance between work, day-to-day activities, and meal planning isn’t easy, which is why we at Networking Perks want to start 2015 with the Eat At Home Challenge.
<script src="http://www.blenza.com/linkies/thumblink.php?owner=networkingwitches&postid=31Dec2014&meme=12243" type="text/javascript"></script>
Enter to WIN a $25 Amazon Gift Card while at the same time building your recipe archive with delicious meals. Make 2015 the year of the family. <a class="rcptr" data-raflid="b38f1b62724" data-template="" data-theme="classic" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/b38f1b62724/" id="rcwidget_mhz49b1g" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a><script src="//widget-prime.rafflecopter.com/launch.js"></script>
Disclaimer: Participating Blogs were not compensated for this post. No purchase is necessary to enter. One entrant per household, per address. Void where prohibited by law. Winner(s) will be contacted by email and have 48 hours to respond before a new winner is chosen. <a href="http://networkingperks.com/" rel="nofollow">Networking Perks</a> will be responsible for product shipment to winner of this sweepstakes. This event is in no way administered, sponsored, or endorsed by, or associated with, Facebook and/or Twitter, Google, Pinterest. Contact Karie@NetworkingPerks.com if you have any additional questions or comments.</span>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span>Meghanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06421889281904919614noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19174095.post-55380561175929204872015-01-05T20:01:00.000-05:002015-01-05T20:01:31.372-05:00January #EatInChallenge 2015<span style="font-size: large;">I don't know about all of you BUT we have made 2015 to be the year of the Buchmans Back on Track (financially).</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">One of the easiest ways for us to get back, is to cut out eating out & take out & drive through. We love it, I hate to admit & at the end of a long work day, it's easier than cooking.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Anywho I am participating in the Eat In Challenge with <a href="http://networkingwitches.com/2015/01/013115-chicken-stuffing-casserole-eatinchallenge-25-amazon-gc-giveaway/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+networkingwitches%2FNpGO+%28Networking+Witches%29" target="_blank">Networking Witches.</a> Who, by the way, are giving away a $25 Amazon gift card. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">So today we did roast beef...in the slow cooker.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq2kmsX1nJlJENI-swc6KfHuIGhaXCqddZhdun0AwnKzSbWpwp9A0okdk9g1ItAC7UPFAzLPpPXd39kRo7doCdOK1HrNr59SP_wnP9ipsR5XDhFJNwCwY5NO83uMf7uH5aBwx2/s1600/%23roastbeef.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq2kmsX1nJlJENI-swc6KfHuIGhaXCqddZhdun0AwnKzSbWpwp9A0okdk9g1ItAC7UPFAzLPpPXd39kRo7doCdOK1HrNr59SP_wnP9ipsR5XDhFJNwCwY5NO83uMf7uH5aBwx2/s1600/%23roastbeef.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"> (not my photo...from foodpeoplewant.com)</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Here is what I did.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Ingredients:</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Roast Beef...mine was probably about 5lbs. (we feed 6 with it...it stretched, I have no idea how! LOL)</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">S&P</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Minced Garlic</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">I do not, I repeat, I do not brown my roast before putting it in the slow cooker.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">I am lazy.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Yes, it's true.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">So I place the roast in the slow cooker (which is lined with those Reynolds Slow Cooker Liners...best invention EVER!), then I fork stabbed it to death. I then season with S&P and about 1TBS of minced garlic.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">I added a bit of water, probably about 1/2 inch in depth. It's always good to have a lil liquid in with what you are cooking. Plus it helps make an awesome aujous!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">When I get home from work it was done. It takes about 6-8 hours in the slow cooker. My husband added some cut up potatoes when he turned it on.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">We served the roast beef, potatoes, mac & cheese & mixed veggies.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">It was a hit...sans the lima beans in the mix veggies...no one likes them.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Tell me what did you make for dinner tonight?</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Are you participating in any sort of challenge?</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Let me know.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<span class="st_twitter_large" displaytext="Tweet"></span><span class="st_facebook_large" displaytext="Facebook"></span><span class="st_ybuzz_large" displaytext="Yahoo! Buzz"></span><span class="st_gbuzz_large" displaytext="Google Buzz"></span><span class="st_email_large" displaytext="Email"></span><span class="st_sharethis_large" displaytext="ShareThis"></span><br />Meghanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06421889281904919614noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19174095.post-19034041711768477392015-01-01T18:41:00.004-05:002015-01-01T18:41:43.847-05:00Saving Grace by Jane Green<span style="font-size: large;">So I tried to post all the books I read last year.<span class="st_twitter_large" displaytext="Tweet"></span><span class="st_facebook_large" displaytext="Facebook"></span><span class="st_ybuzz_large" displaytext="Yahoo! Buzz"></span><span class="st_gbuzz_large" displaytext="Google Buzz"></span><span class="st_email_large" displaytext="Email"></span><span class="st_sharethis_large" displaytext="ShareThis"></span></span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">I did well, then fell off the turnip truck.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">BUT</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I am back this year.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">I just finished this one yesterday:</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjEfS1C88NPSkGTM1yRXXPA8t48DBM7e4wWEZwpQYKVQF9FIAsG7mcsmm8H1Le7xvt_Uvkq3ZCmVn8KgbuYjNo1YQNE3Aa1THuzNlrhb18lx3ZlzKt0qw072YE10oyAlc86e-S/s1600/%23savinggrace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjEfS1C88NPSkGTM1yRXXPA8t48DBM7e4wWEZwpQYKVQF9FIAsG7mcsmm8H1Le7xvt_Uvkq3ZCmVn8KgbuYjNo1YQNE3Aa1THuzNlrhb18lx3ZlzKt0qw072YE10oyAlc86e-S/s1600/%23savinggrace.jpg" height="400" width="262" /></span></a></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Fortunately, I won a copy and I am so glad I did.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">This book will keep you up at night. Not because it's scary but because you can't wait to see what happens next.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">The story centers on Grace, one half of a literary power couple. Has the life of Riley until Beth, a new assistant, comes into her life. Things start to go haywire and crumble for Grace, causing her world to spiral out of control. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">I feel the story has overtones of The Hand hat Rocks the Cradle. The antagonist is definitely a character defined by her swarmy ways while the protagonist manages to make you feel as if you are in her shoes every step of the way.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I would recommend as a good read for those winter nights ahead, I also urge you to never hire an assistant. Just saying.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Tell me, what are reading right now?</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span class="st_twitter_large" displaytext="Tweet"></span><span class="st_facebook_large" displaytext="Facebook"></span><span class="st_ybuzz_large" displaytext="Yahoo! Buzz"></span><span class="st_gbuzz_large" displaytext="Google Buzz"></span><span class="st_email_large" displaytext="Email"></span><span class="st_sharethis_large" displaytext="ShareThis"></span><br />Meghanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06421889281904919614noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19174095.post-30828733322224705512014-12-31T22:24:00.000-05:002014-12-31T22:24:58.501-05:00Taking out 2014...<span style="font-size: large;">Last day of the year.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Last day for me to use my personal time at work so I was off.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Muhahahaha.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">A few months back I was fortunate enough to win a contest from <a href="http://girlgonemom.com/" target="_blank">Girl Gone Mom</a>. She was giving away a family four pack of passes to the <a href="http://www.adventureaquarium.com/" target="_blank">Adventure Aquarium</a> here in South Jersey. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Today we decided to use those passes and headed to Camden NJ where the aquarium is located. It's on the Delaware River, that separates New Jersey from Pennsylvania. Camden is right across the river from Philadelphia. Here is the skyline...plus some two awesomely good looking kids!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj3_6OQjGrBlFbga4itFhOfa5lHBVqDb8KitSTa3bi32sbengFrY_yMe3A8zBVeKR-nXNr0U7tNVZIPIs7cWOD5V8FXkIj4gcX0QKs9seVcxI1c5cwIFTDT1m3SYC0aYcXcy3z/s1600/%23boys2delawareadventureaquarium.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj3_6OQjGrBlFbga4itFhOfa5lHBVqDb8KitSTa3bi32sbengFrY_yMe3A8zBVeKR-nXNr0U7tNVZIPIs7cWOD5V8FXkIj4gcX0QKs9seVcxI1c5cwIFTDT1m3SYC0aYcXcy3z/s1600/%23boys2delawareadventureaquarium.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Do not let the hoodies fool you.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">It was freakin cold out.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">If you look closely at the 8yo you can clearly see he is freezing. Don't listen to your mother when she tells you to put your coat on. Listen to your 16yo brother who thinks a Nike hoodie will keep him warm. Sigh.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Being that close to the water dropped the temp by about 15 degrees. The wind was so bad my eyes were watering.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">So like any good parent, I told them I would feed them to the sharks if they didn't listen!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Proof is in the pudding, people!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYa53AuAPBjXalMGNDCbrk2A3yBfjgo1S1o8u7cmVyQaMYslkHqlqIhmg_vFlek_viFF3qcLMI2fMcosMcSK883-qEj772ODoel_xn52hCYgXw1X521PLhFV1DRQrI2s77xrlx/s1600/%23boysadventureaquarium.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYa53AuAPBjXalMGNDCbrk2A3yBfjgo1S1o8u7cmVyQaMYslkHqlqIhmg_vFlek_viFF3qcLMI2fMcosMcSK883-qEj772ODoel_xn52hCYgXw1X521PLhFV1DRQrI2s77xrlx/s1600/%23boysadventureaquarium.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">I mean business.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Look at those faces, scared of me now aren't they.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Yes! I know!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Next up we let the younger one touch some sharks. Figured if I couldn't feed him to the sharks, I would let him play with them.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnnWkJk04qO95fmthMIv-C4bttI1uZ7xcBa9wDHhkq3S4kBnogHCuTp6_vwSgX4ro-kdbcgjokCUocaea1Ig80Zp5PbkDLUToAou0KTjmeLOjtSK8b3h3XInRsZ8-eWFIMZJPg/s1600/%23ethanadventureaquariumtouchashark.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnnWkJk04qO95fmthMIv-C4bttI1uZ7xcBa9wDHhkq3S4kBnogHCuTp6_vwSgX4ro-kdbcgjokCUocaea1Ig80Zp5PbkDLUToAou0KTjmeLOjtSK8b3h3XInRsZ8-eWFIMZJPg/s1600/%23ethanadventureaquariumtouchashark.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We were also lucky to catch the tail end of the aquariums diving show for the holidays.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I do believe that is Santa & an Elf. Guess this is what he does to relax after Christmas Eve!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD0FI1fSibMb0tx9EOhgemy_fQ4iz-s2F6a6ifuinj-HUTGf9GfrPKn5VMZ-jM2Yd38_aKSIX4KMg1IOY6aJA1J7smvj5JvgLSkVfY3VeBfT6V6lkF8D3CoPvbtBaoeMnqkqWN/s1600/%23adventureaquarium.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD0FI1fSibMb0tx9EOhgemy_fQ4iz-s2F6a6ifuinj-HUTGf9GfrPKn5VMZ-jM2Yd38_aKSIX4KMg1IOY6aJA1J7smvj5JvgLSkVfY3VeBfT6V6lkF8D3CoPvbtBaoeMnqkqWN/s1600/%23adventureaquarium.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We even saw a small aligator try to take out a turtle but he lost sight of him, so he popped up out of the water & gave us the evil eye!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheKA6sch-5DlRI44qPdt4aRwaKbIi7D6wzKoBwt1WEqf5y-EaHj7C68JegyLnRwCL3VwGhyArLhUXiScEsz-BSIBqlYYSXj7_iFBzGLUv0bbMwrOCQiTLJ-809C_DlCR3g8yH1/s1600/%23babyalligatoradventureaquarium.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheKA6sch-5DlRI44qPdt4aRwaKbIi7D6wzKoBwt1WEqf5y-EaHj7C68JegyLnRwCL3VwGhyArLhUXiScEsz-BSIBqlYYSXj7_iFBzGLUv0bbMwrOCQiTLJ-809C_DlCR3g8yH1/s1600/%23babyalligatoradventureaquarium.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Of course, you can experience being in the sea if you wish.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Our fish decided to give it a go:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN1BlwthfZSDGQhNlGFjy9R1hTkxPmjk_GKPzoZHt6991gLCsHIZzVzcoEogTMq34-tXKQf8eLEPTLID0YaL-C3zcjaWcG5KA-DbflDyv8BVmbMO0zB1oV4Opz36nwtN812sfn/s1600/%23ethanadventureaquarium.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN1BlwthfZSDGQhNlGFjy9R1hTkxPmjk_GKPzoZHt6991gLCsHIZzVzcoEogTMq34-tXKQf8eLEPTLID0YaL-C3zcjaWcG5KA-DbflDyv8BVmbMO0zB1oV4Opz36nwtN812sfn/s1600/%23ethanadventureaquarium.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">All in all it was a great family day & I am glad that is how we took 2014 out...as a family.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">How was your NYE?</span></div>
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<span class="st_twitter_large" displaytext="Tweet"></span><span class="st_facebook_large" displaytext="Facebook"></span><span class="st_ybuzz_large" displaytext="Yahoo! Buzz"></span><span class="st_gbuzz_large" displaytext="Google Buzz"></span><span class="st_email_large" displaytext="Email"></span><span class="st_sharethis_large" displaytext="ShareThis"></span><br />Meghanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06421889281904919614noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19174095.post-61330667065880506672014-12-27T19:49:00.001-05:002014-12-27T19:49:15.896-05:00Christmas Recap 2014<span style="font-size: large;">First I would like to start with a small disclosure...or confession, which ever you prefer.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Whatever photos you see here were taken with my somewhat older smartphone. They are not good quality what so ever. I have great photos on my digital camera. Love this camera. The problem? I have a card reader but lost the cable to it and still have not gotten around to getting another cable. It is not your typical USB cable either or I'd be set with the gazillion ones we have around Casa de Buchman.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The morning started quiet enough.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">All of us asleep except the 16yo, who woke up at 7am, crept into the kitchen & started to open and shut the cabinets. Open and shut, open and slam, same thing. Bobster told him, go wake up your brother.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">That's when the party got started.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">We all came downstairs & started to open the gifts from youngest to oldest.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Cheeks was surprised with his "haul", he said he hadn't been the best behaved so he didn't think he would get anything. When he saw his stuff he was like "I was wrong!". He got all the minecraft toys he could handle, legos and of course, snow boots.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAkltqZZFNEUpMjHOJXo8LoJDOCUHdTB66NWtUtMfs6FzkVsFkmJrCKvTyJfQfYiP8k_Y1JhYWaGur9vzYToTpOedDcGKmYmliyw_euAu2pgVIErVWe71-lQn3Ke7kqe-8v6GN/s1600/%23xmasmorning2014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAkltqZZFNEUpMjHOJXo8LoJDOCUHdTB66NWtUtMfs6FzkVsFkmJrCKvTyJfQfYiP8k_Y1JhYWaGur9vzYToTpOedDcGKmYmliyw_euAu2pgVIErVWe71-lQn3Ke7kqe-8v6GN/s1600/%23xmasmorning2014.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> Last year in Jersey it snowed if you looked out the window. He really needed new boots so I got them. This year we will have nothing. Murphy's Law.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Christafus when next. He got some small things then then big surprise. Bobster and I got a terrific deal on a PS4 from Target. Thanks to the cartwheel apps, some earned gift cards, an old credit and my red card we saved more than we ever imagined. Hence the only reason he got. He set up the system and was good to go.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">He had to go to his mom's for a bit but not before we headed over to my in-laws for breakfast. My brother in law ended up making breakfast, don't tell him but he can really cook.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">We did gift exchanged and watched the youngest nephew ride his first fourwheeler at 17 months old. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Back to our house where my family came over for gifts and dinner.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I managed to get a picture of Cheeks with his cousin, B. Two cutie patooties if I ever saw a pair.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4EF_Hu6QesO-a1QwZi84lO1YWvBbkzfZzwWaBqqOo9sdAENMLNMWVkM__9haIhZE-U3ApBRmFrehcJaRGhVme2N4x0cAgnBf1wHNJjr31j-MprwHYbF1GiVUCkoNvmg0m6kTa/s1600/%23xmasmorning2014cousins.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4EF_Hu6QesO-a1QwZi84lO1YWvBbkzfZzwWaBqqOo9sdAENMLNMWVkM__9haIhZE-U3ApBRmFrehcJaRGhVme2N4x0cAgnBf1wHNJjr31j-MprwHYbF1GiVUCkoNvmg0m6kTa/s1600/%23xmasmorning2014cousins.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">B turned 9 yesterday. I can not believe how big they both are. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I made dinner for my family. It was really good. The Nana brought the pasta salad. She said it was for Bobster, her son in law, but I managed to sneak some before he ate it all. All people. You should have seen the size bowl it was served in. Good Lawd!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I had to work the day after so Bobster was home with the boys. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">He let Cheeks just play Legos all day.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I saw this when I arrived home.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimvjXkv0MQ1rHAfRrkHReFCd4fuJekrKYuzR8RsSZoQcvC4QyL0I-_1sCEzFWwPDQKeUQxxOzluEMT1oR6Kq6Y9gffFyXBweKNnO_-aV-mnrUD708Ig4-__ywKJIv_NeSA2e2r/s1600/%23xmaslegos.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimvjXkv0MQ1rHAfRrkHReFCd4fuJekrKYuzR8RsSZoQcvC4QyL0I-_1sCEzFWwPDQKeUQxxOzluEMT1oR6Kq6Y9gffFyXBweKNnO_-aV-mnrUD708Ig4-__ywKJIv_NeSA2e2r/s1600/%23xmaslegos.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'm not going to sugar coat...the table still looks like that.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I seem to like my house best at night. When it's dark & you can't see the mess.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">All in all I think this year Christmas was the best.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I got to have dinner with my family, breakfast with the in-laws, all my kids in the morning & at night (minus a certain oldest child who lives in Fl...bummer). It was a great day spent with both sides of our family and together. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">That's what counts.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">How was your holiday?</span><br />
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<span class="st_twitter_large" displaytext="Tweet"></span><span class="st_facebook_large" displaytext="Facebook"></span><span class="st_ybuzz_large" displaytext="Yahoo! Buzz"></span><span class="st_gbuzz_large" displaytext="Google Buzz"></span><span class="st_email_large" displaytext="Email"></span><span class="st_sharethis_large" displaytext="ShareThis"></span>Meghanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06421889281904919614noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19174095.post-39889558755962501512014-12-25T00:01:00.000-05:002014-12-25T00:01:00.430-05:00Merry Christmas<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVxHCKCWUFMeuUYG7QFJzGTdJKTyRnlXTQiHxeoZVTyHtik7Y7gs6mYqoXVEiMPFht5GIB-XogDZWBV2FXiHup1yt1J_x3Z6wad2Uo9cLnNJ0gxMfXoBu2NkDFodTZDRFeAvRj/s1600/%23merrychristmasvintage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVxHCKCWUFMeuUYG7QFJzGTdJKTyRnlXTQiHxeoZVTyHtik7Y7gs6mYqoXVEiMPFht5GIB-XogDZWBV2FXiHup1yt1J_x3Z6wad2Uo9cLnNJ0gxMfXoBu2NkDFodTZDRFeAvRj/s1600/%23merrychristmasvintage.jpg" height="328" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Merry Christmas</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Bobster, Meghan, Chris & Cheeks</span></div>
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<span class="st_twitter_large" displaytext="Tweet"></span><span class="st_facebook_large" displaytext="Facebook"></span><span class="st_ybuzz_large" displaytext="Yahoo! Buzz"></span><span class="st_gbuzz_large" displaytext="Google Buzz"></span><span class="st_email_large" displaytext="Email"></span><span class="st_sharethis_large" displaytext="ShareThis"></span>Meghanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06421889281904919614noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19174095.post-3269903918163389842014-12-18T18:44:00.000-05:002014-12-18T18:44:08.995-05:00Gin, Gin, Gingerbread House!<span style="font-size: large;">Trying to keep the blog going...another entry...can. you. stand. it!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Monday night, as is our tradition, we did our family Gingerbread house.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">It was just Cheeks and myself. The other members are just party poopers.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">As you can see Cheeks jumped right in.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFYblhd4LDQJQkpw-hYyYTsR6IG13ySrxAJOnBh2Woxp76_nOjksI5TPT0QvzAANPDHhQi1WV-z6qRwK1J1nzAxcfDnXufQRN3GaFTYGDcqTsoMRj4iNpQs80cjN2uJculteuf/s1600/%23gingerbreadhousebeginning2014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFYblhd4LDQJQkpw-hYyYTsR6IG13ySrxAJOnBh2Woxp76_nOjksI5TPT0QvzAANPDHhQi1WV-z6qRwK1J1nzAxcfDnXufQRN3GaFTYGDcqTsoMRj4iNpQs80cjN2uJculteuf/s1600/%23gingerbreadhousebeginning2014.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">I will let you know, I buy a pre-assembled house.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Why?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Trying to get the roof & sides to stay upright & together is a b*tch. Yes, I said it.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The kit I bought provides the white icing, which I get the pleasure of putting on the house, making windows, doors. Since I am so handy, the icing shot out of the open end of the bag and ended up on my table.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">We finally got down to business & started decorating away. That's Cheeks fav part...decorate, eat a few pieces of candy, decorate, break a tooth...you know how it goes. He didn't really break a tooth but the candy that comes with kit is really hard.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Here is the end result:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuB0FIUpQqhvwLILdwbNlXJ56XU4_TxYrN1y6uUSBG8_OvKKhPEDNcnmr3U0n0_kmEnGVwzCbpmlminDK061jna2Io0JRBea-35zrpwQHrCRzmQERtckbFOOwGk9B5I-XmbPx1/s1600/%23gingerbreadhousecompletesideview2014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuB0FIUpQqhvwLILdwbNlXJ56XU4_TxYrN1y6uUSBG8_OvKKhPEDNcnmr3U0n0_kmEnGVwzCbpmlminDK061jna2Io0JRBea-35zrpwQHrCRzmQERtckbFOOwGk9B5I-XmbPx1/s1600/%23gingerbreadhousecompletesideview2014.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOc7iiQSG-OnzEu3ITZ2wAMkW7EPUMnJ0n3W09rKGeaksRUylW7YpGKVxqQeWi8OgxJj8cXbq9v7VJK11TlnLeh6Ej2O7uXaZHvFsqHJ1IMIPhue4nINRwVts3Ls8mMioYIyfM/s1600/%23gingerbreadhousecomplete2014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOc7iiQSG-OnzEu3ITZ2wAMkW7EPUMnJ0n3W09rKGeaksRUylW7YpGKVxqQeWi8OgxJj8cXbq9v7VJK11TlnLeh6Ej2O7uXaZHvFsqHJ1IMIPhue4nINRwVts3Ls8mMioYIyfM/s1600/%23gingerbreadhousecomplete2014.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">How cute is this!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I also broke out Amy's Chocolate Bunny Graham crackers to add a little whimsy to the house.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I really like the way turned out.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Most of all, I loved creating it with my Cheekers. This is our own tradition that we started and I hope it lasts forever. I fully intend to keep doing it with my grandchildren one day.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Tell me, what do you do with your family or friends this time of year.</span><br />
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<span class="st_twitter_large" displaytext="Tweet"></span><span class="st_facebook_large" displaytext="Facebook"></span><span class="st_ybuzz_large" displaytext="Yahoo! Buzz"></span><span class="st_gbuzz_large" displaytext="Google Buzz"></span><span class="st_email_large" displaytext="Email"></span><span class="st_sharethis_large" displaytext="ShareThis"></span><br />Meghanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06421889281904919614noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19174095.post-38262402263525703112014-12-15T19:36:00.004-05:002014-12-15T19:36:52.117-05:00Update, update, update<span style="font-size: large;">Hola my peeps.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">As you can see I have not been that great at keeping up with the bloggeroo. I was doing well with my Sunday Confessions but I didn't really see any feedback so I figured not really anyone was into it.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Then again, they are not overly juicy.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Cheeks has been taking karate since last March. He has missed a few belt tests due to not enough classes, being on vaca etc.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Well this past Saturday he got to take his test.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga5JWmW7XIuOZdTxhn1QxA5Fv6FXxGTnFo7Ax9gmFdUw1LnXqNCdHwQTVJfYswVe1BuSHbARnOfk-CWcVfft1DItI333HKJpDOeRj5G40rGDOdGpVG7EKPriV0dj3PG-iVCClM/s1600/%23yellowbelttest2014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga5JWmW7XIuOZdTxhn1QxA5Fv6FXxGTnFo7Ax9gmFdUw1LnXqNCdHwQTVJfYswVe1BuSHbARnOfk-CWcVfft1DItI333HKJpDOeRj5G40rGDOdGpVG7EKPriV0dj3PG-iVCClM/s1600/%23yellowbelttest2014.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">He was so focused and determined.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Even Mr. Tony singled him out in the start of the class to have him show the other kids how to do some kick.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Proud mommy moment!!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">He passed his test.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Woo!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge1FoVKb7thgeWfeUjlqWeZNMirwjInncRxSQpiR1Qdhg2MH_ffIBVqR5lO-R3L0ucVWZozSa3z1uRUjgK38lWW-cj62BT6pLtUeydMMn2oarFUEj0MZrPhmLdI3N3QiDiRnXw/s1600/%23yellowbeltethangraduate2014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge1FoVKb7thgeWfeUjlqWeZNMirwjInncRxSQpiR1Qdhg2MH_ffIBVqR5lO-R3L0ucVWZozSa3z1uRUjgK38lWW-cj62BT6pLtUeydMMn2oarFUEj0MZrPhmLdI3N3QiDiRnXw/s1600/%23yellowbeltethangraduate2014.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Here he is with all the kids and instructors.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixjRwzeKLfMkObpBEsUPLovx4oM2X5B8iad48a7JebYgbHf54oFVVImBgTfozXKBPgRsNjTXMEvdFMIE5ig7B0eXk52VhIZkaWk6Yxcs5HAcxsWJvVafWvy9x8_Yg3wCK1BVQ8/s1600/%23yellowbelttestgrads2014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixjRwzeKLfMkObpBEsUPLovx4oM2X5B8iad48a7JebYgbHf54oFVVImBgTfozXKBPgRsNjTXMEvdFMIE5ig7B0eXk52VhIZkaWk6Yxcs5HAcxsWJvVafWvy9x8_Yg3wCK1BVQ8/s1600/%23yellowbelttestgrads2014.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Karate is great for him.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">He even takes leadership, which they get to use weapons in. Of course, those are his favorite classes.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Taking karate is really helping him focus in all aspects of his life. He is doing much better this year in third grade. He has an aide but she steps back..a lot. He doesn't like it but he needs that little bit of guidance. The ADHD is getting better. Some children will out grow it. Keep your fingers crossed.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Tell me, what activities do your kids do?</span><br />
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<span class="st_twitter_large" displaytext="Tweet"></span><span class="st_facebook_large" displaytext="Facebook"></span><span class="st_ybuzz_large" displaytext="Yahoo! Buzz"></span><span class="st_gbuzz_large" displaytext="Google Buzz"></span><span class="st_email_large" displaytext="Email"></span><span class="st_sharethis_large" displaytext="ShareThis"></span>Meghanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06421889281904919614noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19174095.post-73632382956297146522014-11-23T19:24:00.004-05:002014-11-23T19:24:25.947-05:00Sunday Confession<span style="font-size: large;">I know that's it's Thanksgiving week, for us in the US. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I love Thanksgiving. It's my favorite holiday.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I have a confession tho.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I am excited for Christmas this year!!!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtPMPZlk21C3XzeYH_aMTmsRX8ZPwh3X1cv81KZyIqbNqexXR-MOduOFxjC2dVCrgsbMTT7QbIGEGsHEBR8PrkcBw1ahWIKr_clk4BxWhpraURQNOvnf3W23chrBh4AbPDQb-a/s1600/%23elf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtPMPZlk21C3XzeYH_aMTmsRX8ZPwh3X1cv81KZyIqbNqexXR-MOduOFxjC2dVCrgsbMTT7QbIGEGsHEBR8PrkcBw1ahWIKr_clk4BxWhpraURQNOvnf3W23chrBh4AbPDQb-a/s1600/%23elf.jpg" height="235" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Can not wait to put up the tree.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Decorate.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Bake.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Shop.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I love shopping. Black Friday...my favorite!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Tell me, are you excited for the holidays?</span>
<span class="st_twitter_large" displaytext="Tweet"></span><span class="st_facebook_large" displaytext="Facebook"></span><span class="st_ybuzz_large" displaytext="Yahoo! Buzz"></span><span class="st_gbuzz_large" displaytext="Google Buzz"></span><span class="st_email_large" displaytext="Email"></span><span class="st_sharethis_large" displaytext="ShareThis"></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>Meghanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06421889281904919614noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19174095.post-91719906364112050202014-11-16T12:28:00.001-05:002014-11-16T12:28:10.429-05:00Sunday Confession<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghWWXk0X4mHkHVi47u_I8zAwi6SSbvgOFojP2gTqEfW5ib-joEIB8q34RWiU9HPJpVED3PDriL0DxMaUhNrpCsYpP8_50sTPzdtWTrriboQ5PmrEpP2QBTiXWNbG2BF3l6vuhu/s1600/%23sunflower.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghWWXk0X4mHkHVi47u_I8zAwi6SSbvgOFojP2gTqEfW5ib-joEIB8q34RWiU9HPJpVED3PDriL0DxMaUhNrpCsYpP8_50sTPzdtWTrriboQ5PmrEpP2QBTiXWNbG2BF3l6vuhu/s1600/%23sunflower.jpg" height="200" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Not sure who reads my blog, but for those that do, there were no Sunday Confessions last week.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This week is not so much a confession as much as an explanation.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Last Sunday, my friend/coworker called me to tell me that our beloved boss and good friend, had passed.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This was sudden and unexpected.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">She was out walking her dog, when she collapsed from an aneurysm. Sadly, she was gone.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">No amount of resuscitation worked.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">At the young age of 48, taken from all those who loved her.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">It has been a rough work.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">In my heart I know she is experiencing happiness. She is with her dad and her dog, Chloe. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">She is not suffering from the illnesses she had.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Her passing leaves a hole in all of our hearts. I have worked with my boss since 1998. We were both bridesmaids in another coworker/friends wedding. We had fun on a daily basis and she was a very dear friend.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This is why there was no entry.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This is why it's been a rough week.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Things will get better, as they say, time makes it easier.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">A little bit of my heart will always have sorrow but most of it will be joy because I knew her and loved her to pieces.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Miss you!</span></div>
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<span class="st_twitter_large" displaytext="Tweet"></span><span class="st_facebook_large" displaytext="Facebook"></span><span class="st_ybuzz_large" displaytext="Yahoo! Buzz"></span><span class="st_gbuzz_large" displaytext="Google Buzz"></span><span class="st_email_large" displaytext="Email"></span><span class="st_sharethis_large" displaytext="ShareThis"></span>Meghanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06421889281904919614noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19174095.post-22635812273790762832014-11-02T08:59:00.003-05:002014-11-02T08:59:59.154-05:00Sunday Confession<span style="font-size: large;">Welcome to another addition of Sunday Confession...where I tell you something earth shattering.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Wait?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">What?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">It's not earth shattering?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Hmm, I thought I was more interesting.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I digress.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Today I am going to tell you something that will amaze you, stun you, make you reconsider life in general.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I am tall.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Like 6ft tall.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Guess what? I like it.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIoXCvdPtViBAOdB8DHepMpuwKYFtHwEJ0ruklH2695bY5MfHEOjEfj6i7L008NuaM7G7z7tDGupUgqdutBaRACXXCxi5BIm6L7XXX5GwsfotmN3IXKrGtsBuucxmfIncy3Waz/s1600/tall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIoXCvdPtViBAOdB8DHepMpuwKYFtHwEJ0ruklH2695bY5MfHEOjEfj6i7L008NuaM7G7z7tDGupUgqdutBaRACXXCxi5BIm6L7XXX5GwsfotmN3IXKrGtsBuucxmfIncy3Waz/s1600/tall.jpg" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Growing up I was not a fan of being taller than everyone else. Not even in high school. Then in my early twenties I started working at a supermarket, where there was not one, not two, but five women all my same height and around the same age. I started to feel like one of the group.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Then I realized, I could reach things and didn't have to ask for help. I could stand in back of crowds and usually see what was going on. I never have to have the hem on my pants taken out (although for being tall, I have short legs).</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">There are cons to being tall...probably too many to name but I appreciate my height.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I take my "tallness" as a blessing...so tell me how tall are you?</span><br />
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<span class="st_twitter_large" displaytext="Tweet"></span><span class="st_facebook_large" displaytext="Facebook"></span><span class="st_ybuzz_large" displaytext="Yahoo! Buzz"></span><span class="st_gbuzz_large" displaytext="Google Buzz"></span><span class="st_email_large" displaytext="Email"></span><span class="st_sharethis_large" displaytext="ShareThis"></span>Meghanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06421889281904919614noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19174095.post-56845758347011705492014-10-31T19:42:00.002-04:002014-10-31T19:42:12.340-04:00Halloween 2014, Unknown to Protect the Innocent<span style="font-size: large;">We have arrived.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Halloween 2014.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Yes.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Like the meme says "At 12 midnight, Bam! Christmas carols everywhere!"</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Let's not get ahead of ourselves.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I was fortunate enough to meet up with one of my oldest & dearest, favorite friends ever...Karen. Her son is a grade ahead of Cheeks, so we watched the parade & then TOT together.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">You would think a blogger would have taken photos.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Not so much.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I got like, one.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Here is the <strike>child, </strike> I mean the Unknown Phantom.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI8JBs3k3RLL9vgWhttJwB6_3JwAXPHi7_5dmKByi6xpy3-pv_YaY2hpwHlP7gQqwqTx4_F2b80JCZzVg1iitv8jx-Ix_AMI4FGcS45k2Wx5gIxHPeul3ub-FAE_CWY2LYU8Td/s1600/%23halloween2014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI8JBs3k3RLL9vgWhttJwB6_3JwAXPHi7_5dmKByi6xpy3-pv_YaY2hpwHlP7gQqwqTx4_F2b80JCZzVg1iitv8jx-Ix_AMI4FGcS45k2Wx5gIxHPeul3ub-FAE_CWY2LYU8Td/s1600/%23halloween2014.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Lost a glove, wearing shorts, & of course, rocking his ever menacing, neon blue sneaks.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">We are keeping his face protected because I have nicknamed the boy, the informer.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">He likes to tell a lot of stuff.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Example: Wednesday, Bobster & I were having a slight disagreement as all married couples do. Cheeks decides to tell my "new" neighbor that his father said "Marriage is a mistake". Mortified doesn't cover it. I was like get in the car! Get! In! The! Car!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Seriously, tho. it was a great Halloween spent with a wonderful friend and her boy. Two years in a row we did it, let's go for three!!!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">How was your Halloween?</span>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>Meghanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06421889281904919614noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19174095.post-62069652044636200942014-10-26T18:20:00.001-04:002014-10-26T18:20:11.871-04:00Sunday Confession<span style="font-size: large;">I was beaten by an 8 yo.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Yep.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Apparently, we were having a contest but I was unaware.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Well, really, it was a challenge. The Iron Chef Haunted House Decorating Challenge, as my son called it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Being the good mom that I am, I picked up a decorate haunted house brownie kit. We decided today was the day to make them. You know, with Halloween being less than a week away.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">So I baked the suckers, let them cool & we started to decorate.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Exhibit 1: He starts out innocently enough.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkGD3UZ5rmcksi4Fw2VqTf7IP5gcdjLwAatH3ji3ha_zPERGqGERVZOhJbRGgRMHTR6iLYpJJdfb1Ygt4pPWPcdqsMLN3auQeK9-4poYWtw3yGyQPCs0flv0Qs9MVPqqs7oNzU/s1600/%23hauntedhouse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkGD3UZ5rmcksi4Fw2VqTf7IP5gcdjLwAatH3ji3ha_zPERGqGERVZOhJbRGgRMHTR6iLYpJJdfb1Ygt4pPWPcdqsMLN3auQeK9-4poYWtw3yGyQPCs0flv0Qs9MVPqqs7oNzU/s1600/%23hauntedhouse.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Exhibit 2: He is going to town!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRj0zVLb1u9qQvggvKYwYzpjKapBAXi6iRNfIPfsMTU1Fck4gFuilEk0PYNAmDbRQlQkB_XMKckxDCXuUK-NSo5tSjSRGlHtHsGIlkeoR6Pt_ZeyGtGA1myTYYQOb9jV4hH-CE/s1600/%23hauntedhouse1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRj0zVLb1u9qQvggvKYwYzpjKapBAXi6iRNfIPfsMTU1Fck4gFuilEk0PYNAmDbRQlQkB_XMKckxDCXuUK-NSo5tSjSRGlHtHsGIlkeoR6Pt_ZeyGtGA1myTYYQOb9jV4hH-CE/s1600/%23hauntedhouse1.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Exhibit 3: Look at me, I am so cute. I am just decorating my house, minding my business, not planning my diabolical plan at all.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF9XcVB6e8B881qFQJtfpi6aVt_6tjXkPG6kYjlTWGUp-6xptLt_QGXHiXbnR9h8vrZnZTSr0YJRBZmtJkwlbmrAEHqfekEzbu87f8Xj94s5eXCXoOEARhMeGRlgCgkurX2gNQ/s1600/%23hauntedhouse2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF9XcVB6e8B881qFQJtfpi6aVt_6tjXkPG6kYjlTWGUp-6xptLt_QGXHiXbnR9h8vrZnZTSr0YJRBZmtJkwlbmrAEHqfekEzbu87f8Xj94s5eXCXoOEARhMeGRlgCgkurX2gNQ/s1600/%23hauntedhouse2.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Exhibit 4: Mommy's house. I finished before Cheeks & he said "Oh I'll call you when I'm done."</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd-q8zvcY8cDvqOCEdKBnBhGCCvdVT51Kca-U3Lm4aIsAITxxbeUpL7pHrI2NoOJ_GVhRjSytvpcIs1ghKtWljhho3og8Fh6ClAwUe5H4_I2pqd47MRvNvTn5pVwtmqryeIEnj/s1600/%23hauntedhouse3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd-q8zvcY8cDvqOCEdKBnBhGCCvdVT51Kca-U3Lm4aIsAITxxbeUpL7pHrI2NoOJ_GVhRjSytvpcIs1ghKtWljhho3og8Fh6ClAwUe5H4_I2pqd47MRvNvTn5pVwtmqryeIEnj/s1600/%23hauntedhouse3.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Exhibit 5: His finished house!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8gjs2jJo1v-NsAbe3GQROKt82UQL1tp7wmWekOoA-RWvRtgZm28_WQyzsNTrcntCeQkmPiPLYtHWCLR4IAgqVtr0OgZQKTuOFsiRqDVYQbvOIo34xlpwVRgop_H50E50hBDxI/s1600/%23hauntedhouse4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8gjs2jJo1v-NsAbe3GQROKt82UQL1tp7wmWekOoA-RWvRtgZm28_WQyzsNTrcntCeQkmPiPLYtHWCLR4IAgqVtr0OgZQKTuOFsiRqDVYQbvOIo34xlpwVRgop_H50E50hBDxI/s1600/%23hauntedhouse4.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This is where he threw in the challenge.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Ok, I'm game.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We walked our plates into the living room and the judges were his father & older brother. You know, the men that I painstakingly make meals for, wash clothes and run around to every activity know for man.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Judging was based on the amount of clapping one got.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Well they went crazy for Cheek's house.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Mine...crickets!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I think the child fixed the contest.</span></div>
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<span class="st_twitter_large" displaytext="Tweet"></span><span class="st_facebook_large" displaytext="Facebook"></span><span class="st_ybuzz_large" displaytext="Yahoo! Buzz"></span><span class="st_gbuzz_large" displaytext="Google Buzz"></span><span class="st_email_large" displaytext="Email"></span><span class="st_sharethis_large" displaytext="ShareThis"></span>Meghanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06421889281904919614noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19174095.post-59161535525648683022014-10-19T19:47:00.001-04:002014-10-19T19:47:04.202-04:00Sunday Confession<span style="font-size: large;">Ok, we all have that one somebody in the celebrity world that we really "don't get", like why they are a celebrity or how they even go to that status.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Here is mine:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicHYsezjnZwu8YH-y8ywU-lpZr_Rm8H6z9PvQTWSPSOgL_JpjcjZSQVpvYP68YQPVzR-3GKw6d1Xq96IcZbvrO3_d-dTUUeRpgwROhvEfbdUDYKsYx2rSl9tSCzcKXGlFVzHri/s1600/Lena-Dunham.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicHYsezjnZwu8YH-y8ywU-lpZr_Rm8H6z9PvQTWSPSOgL_JpjcjZSQVpvYP68YQPVzR-3GKw6d1Xq96IcZbvrO3_d-dTUUeRpgwROhvEfbdUDYKsYx2rSl9tSCzcKXGlFVzHri/s1600/Lena-Dunham.jpg" height="320" width="223" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Lena Dunham.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I just do not get it.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I do not see her appeal.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Yes, yes, she's self depreciating, but so am I.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Yes, she's chubby & not afraid to show her curves.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I get that.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I just don't get how she is revered by so many people.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Lena is probably a really nice person, sweet in fact. It just boggles my mind that she is so popular.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Awkward is in, I know.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I have never seen "Girsl" but from what I hear, she's naked a lot. If I want to see a naked chubby girl, I'll look in the mirror. Ok, it might be like Orca the killer whale but either way...</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Tell me do you have a celebrity that you just don't get?</span><br />
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<span class="st_twitter_large" displaytext="Tweet"></span><span class="st_facebook_large" displaytext="Facebook"></span><span class="st_ybuzz_large" displaytext="Yahoo! Buzz"></span><span class="st_gbuzz_large" displaytext="Google Buzz"></span><span class="st_email_large" displaytext="Email"></span><span class="st_sharethis_large" displaytext="ShareThis"></span>Meghanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06421889281904919614noreply@blogger.com0