LovingHome

I walked!!

2009-08-18T07:15:00.000-07:00

Since last October, until about May, I was walking 4-5 miles a day. Well, once the kids let out of school, that became harder and harder to do.

Yes, I could have still done it, but with so many little walkers, my track became crowded. And while I enjoyed the time with them, it became dangerous when I was trying not to step on them, because they don't have the stride or speed that I do.

Wellllllllllll, last night, after class, I walked 2 miles. I actually felt like I could have done the whole 4-5 miles that I had worked up to, but it was dark, so I had to stop.

I am proud of myself, though, for doing it. No excuses, I just did it :)

Tonight my class lets out too late to walk after, but it starts later, so I am going to try to walk before I leave for class.

My doctor wants me to lose 50-70 pounds. And, he wants me to do so only 25 pounds every 6 months. So, it will take me approximately 1 1/2 years to do so.

I have just under 3 months til my next appointment, so in that time, my goal is to lose 12 pounds. My appointment is 11/16 at 9am.

My hope is by eating right, exercising & watching the scale, I can start correcting my diabetes and high cholesterol, and if not completely eliminate the need for prescriptions, at least greatly lessen them.

Numbers

2009-08-18T06:56:00.000-07:00

Borrowing this idea from a good friend:

161
...that's the number of unread blog posts in my google reader. How will I ever get caught up?

89
...that's the number of messages in my email inbox. How will I ever get caught up?

50-70
...that's the number of extra unhealthy pounds on this body of mine. How will I ever make time for the healthy food planning and exercise that my body needs to get back to a healthy weight?

7
...that's the number of days each week that I should be spending time with the Lord my Savior, as well as having family devotion time with my kids. How will I ever make the time for this?

6
...that's the number of rooms in my home. They all need a good cleaning and some decluttering. How will I ever get caught up?

5
....that's the number of courses I am taking this semester, with plenty of homework and studying in each. I have classes Monday (day & night), Tuesday (night), Wednesday (day), Thursday (night), Saturday (day), as well as 2 online courses. How will I ever keep up?

My goal is to limit my online time to just 30 minutes in the morning (after I've seen my kids off to school), and mobile online time while in the car riding in the passenger seat. Whatever is left over will have to go!

Have a blessed day!

MPM 8/17/09

2009-08-18T06:13:00.000-07:00

MPM

Ok, I didn't do this the last 2 weeks, because of another week of vbs and running around.

This week has already started, but I will still post what we had yesterday. (Sunday I made 20qts of homemade spaghetti sauce, so i made baked spaghetti & lasagna, the rest of the sauce will be frozen).

Monday:
breakfast: eggs, bacon, cheesy grits, toast, sliced tomatoes, bananas, milk
lunch: baked spaghetti, garlic bread, salad, corn, green beans, watermelon, milk
dinner: lasagna, garlic bread, salad, corn, green beans, strawberries, milk

Tuesday:
breakfast: rice krispies with bananas and milk
lunch: lasagna, garlic bread, salad, grapes, milk
dinner: cajun chicken sandwiches, sliced tomatoes, onions, pickles, baked potatoes, celery sticks, carrot sticks, ranch dressing, strawberries, milk

Wednesday:
breakfast: french toast, bacon, bananas, milk
lunch: turkey blt sandwiches, fruit cocktail, chips, milk
dinner: tater tot casserole, peas, turnip greens, salad, peaches, milk

Thursday:
breakfast: bacon, eggs, cheesy grits, sliced tomatoes, toast, grapes, milk
lunch: tuna casserole (with asparagus in it), peas, salad, pears, milk
dinner: teriyaki chicken sandwiches, sliced tomatoes, onions, pickles, pineapple, fried chips, salad, watermelon, milk

Friday:
breakfast: sausage and tomato biscuits, home fries, blueberries, milk
lunch: cheeseburgers, squash & zucchini, corn on the cob, blueberries, milk
dinner: pizza and salad at my mom's house

Saturday:
breakfast: breakfast casserole, sliced tomatoes, cantaloupe, milk
lunch: turkey blt sandwiches, french fries, salad, milk
dinner: on the road (mini-vacation)

Sunday:
all meals on the road (mini-vacation)

MPM 7/27/09

2009-07-27T06:06:00.000-07:00

MPM

This is gonna be an easy peasy week. VBS is Monday-Friday, so I only have to plan bf & lunch til Saturday :)

Monday:
breakfast: cheese toast & milk
lunch: bologna sandwiches
dinner: VBS

Tuesday:
breakfast: sausage biscuits from the bo
lunch: chick-fil-a
dinner: VBS

Wednesday:
breakfast: cinnamon toast
lunch: potato skins
dinner: VBS

Thursday:
breakfast: cereal
lunch: spaghetti
dinner: VBS

Friday:
breakfast: french toast
lunch: hot dogs, chips & baked beans
dinner: VBS Finale dinner

Saturday:
breakfast: fried egg sandwiches
lunch: twice baked potatoes
dinner: lasagna

Sunday:
breakfast: blt's
lunch: lasagna
dinner: nachos

Visit my other blog

2009-07-25T09:45:00.000-07:00

My Clean Home

for my decluttering, organizing, rearranging and other things going on around this crazy place.

Cheeseburger & Fries Casserole

2009-07-20T16:58:00.000-07:00

Cheeseburger 'N Fries Casserole

Recipe By :Cherylann
Serving Size : 8
Categories : Casseroles

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
2 pounds lean ground beef
1 can condensed golden mushroom soup
1 can condensed cheese soup
20 ounces frozen crinkle-cut french fries

Brown beef in skillet. Drain grease. Preheat oven to 350°.

Stir soups into ground beef. Pour into a greased 9 X 13 X 2" baking dish. Arrange fries on top.

Bake, uncovered, for 50-55 minutes or until the fries are golden brown.

MPM 7/20/09

2009-07-20T14:50:00.000-07:00

MPM

Monday 7/20:
Breakfast: Cereal
Lunch: Corndogs, french fries, corn, brownies
Dinner: Easiest Swiss steak, rice, corn, salad, breadsticks, heavenly hash ice cream

Tuesday 7/21:
Breakfast: BLT
Lunch: Chicken Sandwich, lettuce, tomato, fries
Dinner: Crockpot Meatloaf, fried squash and onions, boiled potatoes, peas, salad, cornbread, vanilla ice cream

Wednesday 7/22:
Breakfast: French toast & sausage
Lunch: Leftover meatloaf
Dinner: Cheeseburger & Fries Casserole, baked beans, asparagus, salad, garlic bread, watermelon

Thursday 7/23:
Breakfast: Omelettes
Lunch: grilled cheese & bacon sandwiches
Dinner: Cheeseburgers, fried chips, pickles, salad, peaches (yes, i know that's beef 4 nights in a row, but it has to be used up before vacation)

Friday 7/24:
Vacation

Saturday 7/25:
Vacation

Sunday 7/26:
Vacation

Menu Planning Monday 7/13/09

2009-07-12T06:48:00.000-07:00

MPM

All the dinners are using the CROCKPOT :) It's so easy to clean the kitchen at night, wash the crockpot, fill it back up, sit in fridge....then in the morning pop it in and have dinner ready for me at the end of the day. AND...it doesn't heat up my kitchen! Less dishes to wash, too :)

Monday 7/13/09:
Breakfast: bacon & eggs
Lunch: lemon pepper chicken sandwiches
Dinner: Bean & Sausage Delight, salad, cornbread, watermelon

Tuesday 7/14/09:
Breakfast: chicken biscuits
Lunch: Meatball subs
Dinner: Dr. Pepper Roast, mashed potatoes, carrots, peas, salad, yeast rolls, peaches

Wednesday 7/15/09:
Breakfast: cinnamon toast
Lunch: bologna sandwiches
Dinner: Golden Mushroom Chicken, rice, green beans, salad, herb bread, strawberries

Thursday 7/16/09:
Breakfast: sausage biscuits
Lunch: smothered chicken sandwiches
Dinner: Lone Star BBQ Ribs, potato salad, corn on the cob, baked beans, garlic bread, homemade peach ice cream

Friday 7/17/09:
Breakfast: banana bread
Lunch: Hot Dogs & chips
Dinner: Crockpot Steak, rice, navy beans, sliced tomatoes, squash, salad, bread, watermelon

Saturday 7/18/09:
Breakfast: french toast
Lunch: peanut butter & jelly sandwiches
Dinner: Crockpot Lasagna, salad, garlic bread, homemade chocolate icecream

Sunday 7/19/09:
Breakfast: omelettes
Lunch: lasagna
Dinner: No-Brainer Chicken, baked potatoes, zucchini, pinto beans, salad, cheesy biscuits, blackberries

Menu Planning Monday 7/6/09 (a day early)

2009-07-05T07:11:00.000-07:00

The good thing about this week's menu is I have ALMOST everything I need, so there won't be much to buy at the grocery store :) Menu Planning Monday at Organizing Junkie

MENU:
Monday 7/6/09
Brisket, baked beans, potato salad, corn on the cob, salad, herb bread, watermelon for dessert.
Tuesday 7/7/09
Teriyaki Chicken Sandwiches (teriyaki chicken, pineapple slice, tomato, leaf lettuce on a kaiser bun), fried chips (potatoes sliced paper thin and deep fried), green beans, salad, ice cream.
Wednesday 7/8/09
Kielbasa fried with onions, peppers and zucchini, home fries (potatoes cubed, fried and seasoned), salad, grapes.
Thursday 7/9/09 Slow Cooker Thursday
Farmhouse Pot Roast (this is my recipe that is in Gooseberry Patch's Ready, Set, Eat), salad, yeast rolls, peaches.
Friday 7/10/09
Pork Ribs, Baked Potatoes, Squash, Peas, salad, cornbread, fruit cocktail.
Saturday 7/11/09
Lasagna, Garlic Bread (this is my recipe that is in Gooseberry Patch's Christmas Kitchen), Salad, Brownies
Sunday 7/12/09
Cajun Chicken Sandwiches (chicken with cajun seasoning, onion, tomato, leaf lettuce on an onion roll), Fried Chips, Salad, Strawberry shortcake.

Grocery List (I have most everything I need already. For BOLD items, those are just things I need to buy every week, so I don't really have many "extras" to buy):
bread
milk
soy milk
pediasure
lunch meat
salad items
tp
dog food
diapers
wipes
cherub's choir snacks
onions
carrots
celery
potatoes
watermelon
grapes
strawberries
bbq sauce
16 oz. ricotta
8 oz. shredded mozzarella
Italian seasoning

Recipes (for those without links):

Parmesan Herb Bread

Recipe By : Cherylann
Serving Size : 12
Categories : Breads

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (3 1/2 to 4 1/4 cups)
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (4 ounces)
2 tablespoons sugar
2 packages Fleischmann's® Rapid Rise Yeast
2 teaspoons fines herbes
1 teaspoon salt
1 1/4 cups water
1 egg -- at room temperature
1 egg white -- lightly beaten

In large bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups flour, cheese, sugar, undissolved yeast, fines herbes and salt. Heat water until very warm (125º to 130ºF); stir into dry ingredients. Stir in whole egg and enough remaining flour to make soft dough. Knead on lightly floured surface, until smooth and elastic, about 4 minutes. Cover; let rest 10 minutes.

Roll dough to 7- × 11-inch rectangle. Roll up tightly from short end as for jelly roll; pinch seam and ends to seal. Place in greased 8 1/2- × 4 1/2-inch loaf pan. Cover, let rise in warm, draft-free place until doubled in size, about 20 to 40 minutes.

Brush loaf with egg white. Bake at 375ºF for 25 to 30 minutes or until done. Remove from pan; cool on wire rack.

Yields: 1 Loaf

Homemade Lasagna

Recipe By :Cherylann
Serving Size : 10
Categories : Casseroles

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
3 cups homemade spaghetti sauce -- see recipe
1 box lasagna noodles -- prepared as directed; or 1 box uncooked dumplings
16 ounces cottage cheese -- or ricotta cheese
8 ounces mozzarella cheese -- finely shredded

Preheat oven to 350°. Lightly spray 13X9" baking pan with non-stick spray.

Lay one sheet of lasagna noodles or two sheets of dumplings in pan. Top with sauce and cottage cheese.

Repeat layers until done. Top with mozzarella.

Bake 45-50 minutes or until bubbly. Check after 30 minutes; if top is getting brown too fast, cover with nonstick foil.

NOTES : To freeze: Assemble lasagna and freeze without baking. Thaw and bake.

Homemade Spaghetti Sauce

Recipe By :Cherylann
Serving Size : 8
Categories : Main Dishes

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
2 pounds ground beef
1 onion -- finely chopped
5 cloves garlic -- pressed
1 cup celery -- finely chopped
1 cup carrots -- finely chopped
1 cup zucchini -- finely chopped
1 green pepper -- finely chopped
1 sprig fresh rosemary -- chopped
1 teaspoon oregano
1 teaspoon basil
1 teaspoon thyme
1 teaspoon savory
1 teaspoon marjoram
1 teaspoon salt and pepper
2 bay leaves
3 cans mushroom pieces -- undrained
2 cans diced tomatoes
1 can tomato sauce
1 can tomato paste
2 boxes favorite noodles -- prepared as directed

Brown ground beef with onion, garlic, celery, carrots, zucchini and green pepper. Drain. Add to large pot.

Add spices, tomatoes, sauce, paste and noodles to ground beef mixture. Bring to a boil. Turn down heat and simmer on low for hours. Stir occasionally.

Discard bay leaves.

Garlic Bread

Recipe By :Cherylann
Serving Size : 12
Categories : Breads

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
1 loaf fresh baked bread -- cut into 1" slices
1 stick butter
1 sprig fresh rosemary
2 cloves garlic -- pressed
1 teaspoon basil
1 teaspoon oregano
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon thyme
1 teaspoon savory
1 teaspoon marjoram

Preheat oven to 350°.

Put butter, garlic and spices in large microwaveable mug. Heat for one minute until melted. Stir.

Brush on all sides of bread slices.

Toast in oven.

From-Scratch Brownies

Recipe By :Cherylann
Serving Size : 18
Categories : Brownies & Bars

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
16 ounces chocolate syrup
1/2 cup butter
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup sugar
4 eggs

Preheat oven to 350°.

Mix chocolate syrup, butter, flour and sugar together; add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Pour into a greased 13X9" baking pan; bake for 30 minutes.

Strawberry Shortcake

Recipe By : Cherylann
Serving Size : 10
Categories : Cakes

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
Buttermilk Pound Cake:
3 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 sticks unsalted butter -- softened
1/2 cup vegetable shortening
3 cups sugar
5 eggs
1 cup buttermilk
1 Tablespoon vanilla extract
Fresh Strawberries:
1/2 cup sugar
2 pints strawberries -- hulled and sliced
1/3 cup warm water
Fresh Whipped Cream:
1 cup whipping cream
1/4 cup sugar

Preheat oven to 325°. Grease and flour a 10" Bundt pan.

Sift together the flour, baking soda, baking powder and salt; set aside.

Cream the butter, shortening and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add dry ingredients and the buttermilk, alternately, to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.

Add the vanilla; mix well.

Pour batter into prepared pan. Bake for 1 hour and 45 minutes, or until the cake is done. The cake will pull away from the sides of the pan. Remove cake from oven.

Fresh Strawberries: While cake is baking, dissolve the sugar in water. Add sugar water to the strawberries, and toss. Let stand, tossing a few times before serving. They will make their own juice in about 30 minutes.

Let cake cool in pan for 10 minutes. Invert onto cake plate. Serve each slice topped with strawberries and whipped cream.

Fresh Whipped Cream: Using an electric mixer, beat together the cream and sugar until stiff.

So sorry!

2009-07-05T06:59:00.000-07:00

I am so sorry I have been MIA lately. I am going to try and do better. I have been so busy decluttering and busy with the kids, that I have neglected my blogs (but still better than the other way around, lol).

I have just finished my menu plan for the next week, so I will post it tomorrow for Menu Planning Monday (hosted by Organizing Junkie).

I am also going to participate in Slow-Cooker Thursday (hosted by Diary of a SAHM).

I also "hope" to participate in a few other challenges by other blogs.

The biggest challenge (of my own), is that I hope to start posting again on a regular basis. I have still been doing my decluttering daily as I promised, but haven't thought to blog it as I go along. You would think by now I'd be clutter free, but in a house with 5 kids (and a sloppy dh), that is just NOT the case!!! I hope to do better....Hope you all had a Happy 4th!!

Menu Planning Monday 5/11/09

2009-05-12T04:39:00.000-07:00

Monday: Cheeseburgers on the grill, potato chips, baked beans, corn
Tuesday: Grilled chicken, corn on the cob, potato salad, green peas, salad
Wednesday: Fried pork chops, mashed potatoes & gravy, green beans, salad
Thursday: Pot roast with carrots, potatoes, yeast rolls, salad
Friday: Spaghetti & Meatballs, salad, garlic bread
Saturday: Steak, baked potato, sauteed mushrooms, salad, bread
Sunday: chicken & dumplings, salad

Menu Planning Monday

Strawberry Cake :)

2009-03-05T13:25:00.000-08:00

Ok, so I am trying to oamc my desserts today, since I am not doing that for meals this month. This is now in the oven, and I will be probably making a few more desserts today before it is all over & done with.

Homemade 6-Layer Strawberry Cake

Recipe By :Cherylann
Serving Size : 20
Categories : Cakes

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
Cake:
3 1/2 cups cake flour -- NOT self-rising
1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup solid vegetable shortening
2 cups sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 Tablespoons strawberry liqueur
1 cup buttermilk
red food coloring
2/3 cup strawberries -- diced
6 egg whites
1 teaspoon cream of tartar
Frosting:
2 sticks unsalted butter -- at room temperature
16 ounces cream cheese -- at room temperature
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 teaspoon lemon extract
4 pounds confectioners' sugar
1/4 cup milk
red food coloring
1/3 cup strawberries -- diced
Garnish:
2 cups unsweetened coconut flakes
6 medium strawberries

Preheat oven to 350°. Coat 3-8X2" round cake pans with cooking spray. Line bottoms with waxed paper; coat paper with nonstick cooking spray.

Sift together flour, baking soda and salt into large bowl.

Beat shortening in large bowl on medium speed, gradually adding 1 1/2 cups sugar; beat 2 minutes or until smooth. Add vanilla and liqueur; beat 1 minute.

On low speed, beat in flour mixture, gradually (in 3 additions), alternating with buttermilk, beginning and ending with flour; beat on medium-high speed for 2 minutes. Tint with 10 drops food coloring. Fold in strawberries.

In a separate large bowl, beat egg whites until foamy. Add cream of tartar; beat on high speed, gradually adding remaining 1/2 cup sugar. Beat until stiff peaks form.

Stir 1/4 beaten whites into cake bater fold in remaining whites. Divide batter among 3 prepared pans.

Bake for 28-30 minutes, until cakes spring back when lightly touched. Cool in pans on racks 15 minutes. Turn cakes out onto racks; remove paper; let cool.

Frosting: Beat 1/2 cup butter and 8 ounces cream cheese in large bowl until smooth, 1-2 minutes. Add half of the extracts, 2 pounds sugar and 2 Tablespoons milk. Beat on low until blended; scrape down sides of bowl. Beat on high until smooth and spreading consistency, 1-2 minutes. Tint with 8 drops coloring. Stir in diced strawberries.

Use remaining frosting ingredients to make a second batch, omitting food coloring, so frosting is white.

Trim 2 cakes even; leaving third layer with crown. Insert picks around side of one layer, halfway up the side. Using picks as a guide, slice in half. Repeat with other 2 layers (for 6 layers). Discard picks.

Place one layer on cake stand. Spread 1 cup pink frosting over top. Place another layer on top; spread with another 1 cup pink frosting. Repeat with 3 more layers and pink frosting. Top with untrimmed layer; do not frost. Insert a couple of wooden skewers vertically into cake, so layers do not slide.

Refrigerate 30 minutes.

Frost sides of cake with about 3 cups of white frosting. Before frosting sets, gently press coconut into sides. remove skewers.

Swirl about 1 1/2 cups white frosting on top of cake. Arrange strawberries on top, halving some. Refrigerate to set, at least 1 hour before serving. Cut while still cold.

Today's Meals:

2009-03-05T09:51:00.000-08:00

For breakfast, I fed the kids (and dh) waffles and bacon.

Lunch: leftover northern beans with ham

Dinner: Chef Salad, breadsticks, brownies.

BREAKFAST:

Bulk Waffles

Recipe By : Cherylann
Serving Size : 48
Categories : Waffles

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
16 cups sifted all-purpose flour
24 teaspoons double-acting baking powder
8 teaspoons baking soda
8 teaspoons salt
16 cups buttermilk
32 eggs -- well beaten
8 cups butter or margarine -- melted

Sift flour, baking powder, soda, salt. Combine buttermilk, eggs; add to flour mixture. With hand beater, or mixer at high speed, beat until smooth; whisk in butter.

When waffle iron is ready to use, pour batter into center of lower half until it spreads about 1" from edges. Bring cover down gently. Cook until no steam escapes. Do not raise cover during baking.

When waffle is done, lift cover; loosen waffle with fork; serve at once. Reheat iron before pouring in next waffle. Flash freeze & bag in multiples of 12 (separated by wax or freezer paper).

LUNCH:
All I did was fix dried northern beans with ham in them and seasoned well with salt, pepper and Italian seasoning. Simmered them all day.

DINNER:
Chef's Salad Bowl

Recipe By : Cherylann
Serving Size : 6
Categories : Salad

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
1 1/2 pounds head lettuce or mixed greens
3/4 pound cooked turkey
1/2 pound cooked ham
1/2 pound cheddar cheese or swiss cheese
6 green pepper rings
3/4 pound tomatoes -- cut into wedges
3 hard-cooked eggs -- quartered

Cut or tear lettuce into bite-size pieces. Portion into individual salad bowls

Cut meat and cheese into thin strips. Arrange on top of lettuce, turkey, ham and cheese.

Garnish with 1 green pepper ring, 2 tomato wedges, and 2 egg quarters.

Serve salad with choice of dressings.

Breadsticks

Recipe By :Cherylann
Serving Size : 32-48
Categories : Breads

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
5 1/2 cups all-purpose flour -- divided
2 packages active dry yeast
2 teaspoons salt
2 cups warm water
cornmeal
1 egg white -- slightly beaten
1 Tablespoon water

In large mixer bowl combine 2 cups of the flour, the yeast, and salt. Add 2 cups warm water. Beat at low speed of electric mixer for 1/2 minute, scraping bowl constantly. Beat 3 minutes at high speed. Stir in as much of the remaining flour as you can mix in with a spoon. Turn out onto lightly floured surface.

Knead in enough of the remaining flour to make stiff dough that is smooth and elastic (8 to 10 minutes total). Shape into a ball. Place in lightly greased bowl, turning once to grease surface. Cover; let rise in warm place until double (1 to 1 1/2 hours). Punch down; turn out onto lightly floured surface. Divide in half.

Cut each half of dough into 16 or 24 pieces. Roll each piece into a rope 8 inches long. Place on greased baking sheet. Cover; let rise until nearly double (about 30 minutes). Preheat oven to 375°. If desired, brush with egg white mixture and sprinkle with coarse salt or sesame seed. Bake for 10 minutes; reduce temperature to 300° and bake for 20 to 25 minutes longer. Makes 32-48 breadsticks. Flash freeze, then bag in multiples of 6.

From-Scratch Brownies

Recipe By : Cherylann
Serving Size : 18
Categories : Brownies & Bars

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
16 ounces chocolate syrup
1/2 cup butter
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup sugar
4 eggs

Preheat oven to 350°.

Mix chocolate syrup, butter, flour and sugar together; add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Pour into a greased 13X9" baking pan; bake for 30 minutes.

March Meal Plan

2009-03-05T07:10:00.000-08:00

I am going to try something a little different this month (instead of either 1. oamc'ing or 2. no planning).

My meal plans will be:
Sundays-Chicken & Dumplings
Mondays-homemade soup or sandwiches
Tuesdays-beans
Wednesdays-crockpot
Thursdays-salads
Fridays-Italian
Saturdays-Steaks on the grill or out to eat

This month:
Thursday 3/5 Chef Salad
Friday 3/6 Pintos with ham
Saturday 3/7 OUT TO EAT....somewhere nice...maybe Texas Roadhouse or Outback?
Sunday 3/8 Chicken & Dumplings
Monday 3/9 Bean Burritos
Tuesday 3/10 Spaghetti
Wednesday 3/11 Farmhouse Pot Roast
Thursday 3/12 Grilled Chicken Salad
Friday 3/13 Lasagna
Saturday 3/14 Ribeyes on the grill
Sunday 3/15 Chicken & Dumplings
Monday 3/16 Chili
Tuesday 3/17 Northern Beans with Ham
Wednesday 3/18 Crockpot Chicken Stroganoff
Thursday 3/19 Taco Salad
Friday 3/20 Calzones
Saturday 3/21 OUT TO EAT
Sunday 3/22 Chicken & Dumplings
Monday 3/23 Teriyaki Chicken Sandwiches
Tuesday 3/24 Lima Beans with Ham
Wednesday 3/25 Crockpot Pot Roast with Beans
Thursday 3/26 Oriental Chicken Salad
Friday 3/27 Pizza
Saturday 3/28 Grilled Ribeyes
Sunday 3/29 Chicken & Dumplings
Monday 3/30 Cajun Chicken Sandwiches
Tuesday 3/31 Bean Soup
Wednesday 4/1 Crockpot Pork Chops with Mushrooms
Thursday 4/2 Cajun Chicken Salad
Friday 4/3 Stromboli
Saturday 4/4 OUT TO EAT

Day 30, Decluttering

2009-01-30T15:16:00.000-08:00

Today I cleaned out the cabinet where I keep the medicines. I tossed all the expired meds, and organized everything else.

I have made a new blog just for my cleaning, decluttering, baby stepping & decorating: My Clean Home

I am starting FlyLady's babysteps again Sunday, 2/1 :)

Decluttering update Days 26-29

2009-01-29T11:30:00.000-08:00

Monday Jan 26--cleaned out the fridge again...wasnt too bad.

Tuesday Jan 27--decluttered my cleaning supplies...consolidated like items

Wednesday Jan 28--decluttered my tupperware cabinet

Thursday Jan 29--Decluttered the kids' room, tossed 4 trash bags of stuff (torn out color books, notebook paper, stray game pieces, toys with parts missing, etc)

SO SO SORRY....Decluttering update

2009-01-26T04:28:00.000-08:00

No, I have not been neglecting my decluttering mission. I just havent had time for posting. The kids were out of school from 1/17(sat) through 1/23 (friday).

So, here's a short recap of my journey:
16-cleaned a bin from the shed....tossed 1/2, freecycled other 1/2
17-kids' hanging clothes...about 1/4 to freecycle
18-2 bins from shed.......tossed & freecycled most
19-1 bin from shed...most gone
20-bathroom cabinet...wasn't anything to toss, just straightened it all up
21-emptied magazine rack...won't tell you how old they were, lol
22-went through a box of craft supplies, freecycled it all
23-went through Brea & Rory's toys....freecycled 1 trash bag full
24-went through the board games...tossed those missing pieces
25-went through the dvd's....tossed empty cases & scratched dvd's

Today starts the super fling boogie on flylady again...go check it out. I am down with the stomach flu today...but will try to get something done, even if it's just cleaning out my wallet. Not sure if I will get to post today, or not

Homeschooling

2009-01-16T04:42:00.001-08:00

I am leaning towards homeschooling. I would like any advice from readers out there that are currently homeschooling. Are there any curriculums out there that are a good program? Any to avoid? Any advice? I'm very curious to see what you have to say.

Day 15, Decluttering

2009-01-16T04:39:00.000-08:00

I cleaned out the small buffet and got rid of some cookbooks I knew I'd never use.

Now I am using it to hide YES, HIDE, snacks from my kids. I have to provide a daily snack for my kids to carry to school, but if I don't hide them, they will get gone. Hopefully it will be a LONG time before they find this hiding spot ;)

Day 14, Decluttering the truck, pt. 2

2009-01-14T12:57:00.000-08:00

Today I decluttered the front seat of the truck, I got a few stray pieces of dirty clothes and a wal-mart bag of trash (it was already partially full). I also found a few things I knew were in the car, but couldn't find.

I even cleaned out the console.

The only thing left to declutter is the door racks in the front seat (just a few magazines in there) and the trunk........there's always tomorrow ;)

Day 13, Decluttering my truck pt.1 (1/13/09)

2009-01-14T03:59:00.000-08:00

Decluttered the middle & back seat of my truck. Tossed 1 trash bag & had 1 trash bag of dirty clothes.

It's amazing that the kids are only in my truck for a total of 15 minutes a day and aren't allowed to eat or drink in the car accumulated a whole trash bag full of trash.

Chey doesn't accumulate any trash, and we hardly ever go anywhere.

The clothes are from them too lazy to bring in their dirty clothes from staying at grammy's. Well guess what...new rule: you don't bring in your dirty clothes, you miss a turn.

Another new rule: surrender your backpacks when you get in the truck, so that any snacks you had leftover at school, the trash & crumbs don't end up in my truck.

I will be getting the truck detailed this weekend, if I'm in town.

Day 12, Decluttering (1/12)

2009-01-13T13:06:00.000-08:00

Sorry I didn't post this yesterday, I cleaned out the entertainment center and straightened up the dvd's. Tossed any empty cases I had.

Day 11, decluttering (12/11 Sunday)

2009-01-13T13:04:00.000-08:00

Sorry I have not been posting lately, but I have been decluttering. I went through 2 bins from the shed today and tossed everything in them. Have no idea why I'd kept the stuff, but glad it is gone now!!

How cute is Santa's little helper???

2009-01-10T14:46:00.000-08:00

This little girl with the mischievious look on her face is ready to go see Santa...12/22/08. Cheyanna 7 months.

Menu Planning (a few days early)

2009-01-10T14:17:00.000-08:00

I changed my mind about going out to eat tonight.

So, here's my menu from tonight through next Saturday night:

Saturday 1/10
Lemon Herb & Garlic Shrimp, baked sweet potatoes, rice pilaf and salad. For dessert the kids & dh will have lime jello. I am omitting the sweet potatoes for myself, and I will have sugar free lime jello.

Sunday 1/11
Taco Dip & Scoops (no scoops for me). Dessert is pound cake for dh & the kids. More s-f lime jello for me.

Monday 1/12
Tuscan Rosemary Chicken & Beans, pasta, salad, homemade yeast rolls. Dessert is chocolate pudding. For me no pasta, rolls and s-f lime jello instead of choc pudding.

Tuesday 1/13
Mushroom Delight Pork Chops, rice, salad, homemade yeast rolls, Dessert pound cake. Me: no rice, rolls or pudding; s-f lime jello.

Wednesday 1/14
Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf, green beans, salad, cornbread, cherry jello. For me no cornbread or cherry jello; s-f peach jello.

Thursday 1/15
Creamy Pesto Chicken & Bowties, peas, salad, hm yeast rolls and pound cake. For me no peas (yuck, lol), rolls or cake; s-f peach jello.

Friday 1/16
Preacher's Delight, salad, hm yeast rolls, vanilla pudding. Me: no rolls or pudding; s-f peach jello.

Saturday 1/17 Chicken & Homemade Dumplings, carrots, salad, hm yeast rolls, Orange Creme Cake. Me: just a few dumplings, raw carrots instead of cooked (yuck), no rolls or cake; s-f peach jello.

Sunday 1/18 Leftovers.

Decluttering, Day 10

2009-01-10T14:16:00.000-08:00

I decluttered my pantry & my can pantry...but I also went grocery shopping. Sooooooooo................they are now slam packed again. But they are better organized. I do need to inventory though.

Day 9 Decluttering my desk (1/9/09)

2009-01-10T14:14:00.001-08:00

Didn't get a chance to post yesterday.

I got one desk shelf completely decluttered...it is now empty and waiting on me to decide what to put there. I think that is going to be home base for my camera, cellphone, wallet & keys.

Day 8, Decluttering my desk

2009-01-09T05:56:00.000-08:00

For some reason, blogger still won't let me upload pics....so, yesterday, I worked a little more on decluttering my desk shelves. I did not get it completed, but I did go through all the stuff on the remaining upper 4 shelves. I tossed all the trash (filling 1/2 a very large trash bag). I still have things on my desk that don't belong there, but I did eliminate the trash from those 4 shelves.

Day 7, Decluttering the DR table

2009-01-07T14:12:00.000-08:00

Yes, My Dining Room table is a mess.....covered by who knows what...everything imaginable :)

I have (almost) come to terms with the fact that my table will not be available until all the decorations are put away, BUT, at least I can get all the "extra" junk off of it.

Ok, I do have 3 pics for you, but for some reason I am having technical difficulties (the picture thingy on blogger won't open...yes, that is a technical term).

But, I will have to show you my progress later. Everything not Christmas related got put away or tossed. The Christmas stuff is on the table sorted by category.

Day 6 Decluttering...part 1

2009-01-06T06:53:00.000-08:00

Ok, yesterday the kids were all home with a stomach virus, so I let the clean laundry pile up (I know, I know, shame on me). I washed & dried all day but did not fold or put up.

So, the first thing I had to do, if I wanted to declutter anything, was to fold the laundry & put it away.

Before.......a big pile of laundry.

After....all folded & ready to be put away.

Day 5, Decluttering...One Desk Shelf

2009-01-05T16:08:00.000-08:00

Ok, this is REALLY embarrassing...It's ONE of the shelves on my desk.

shelf before....yes, please don't judge, I know it's bad...

the contents of that shelf dumped...in my defense, I have 4 kids & a dh that love to stick stuff on my desk and it's a really deep shelf. Ok, that doesn't even sound like a good excuse to me, lol.

Ahhhhh...a nice clean shelf. Tell me why it can't stay that way???

This is all the stuff that needs to be put away elsewhere.

This is the stuff that needs to be put back on that shelf (disregard the crayon box and the rolls of calculator paper, because I ended up putting 2 photo boxes full of supplies on the shelf and now they won't fit on the shelf).

The after picture ;) 2 photo boxes of supplies, my markers, my check box, envelopes, scrap paper (the old stubs from the business account), index cards, tae bo dvd, education cdrom, my favorite cd, butterfly rock that Brea painted, my meter & outgoing mail.........

Menu Planning Monday

2009-01-05T12:54:00.000-08:00

No, I've not given up on OAMC, but don't have time to do a session right now. So, here's this week's menu.

I got this idea from Rhonda at Christmas Notebook, who in turn got the idea from Organizing Junkie.

Monday: Homemade Chicken & Dumplings, green beans, homemade yeast rolls, peanut butter cookies (for dh & kids)
a small serving of C&D for me, with a large salad

Tuesday: Meatloaf, Rice, tomatoes and peas, carrot cake (dh & kids)
Meatloaf, tomatoes, salad for me

Wednesday: Barbecue Chicken, carrots, black eye peas, chocolate cherry crunch (dh & kids)
Grilled chicken, black eye peas, raw carrots for me

Thursday: Farmhouse Pot Roast with carrots & potatoes, homemade bread, gingerbread cookies (dh & kids)
roast beef & carrots, salad for me

Friday: Shrimp cocktail, baked potatoes, turnip greens, salad, coca cola cake (dh & kids...cept turnips just for kids)
shrimp, salad for me

Saturday: McDonald's for kids, Outback for me & dh IF my mom will watch the kids.........if not it will be Golden Corral for all of us. Yes, I know this is not going in the direction of saving money, but my dh & I have not been out just the 2 of us in years.....and we could use the time to talk.

Happy Monday

2009-01-05T06:57:00.000-08:00

I haven't had time YET today to declutter. The kids are home sick with a stomach bug, and I've been cooking up a storm.

Have made so far:
Homemade Chicken & Dumplings
Meatloaf
Homemade Yeast Rolls
Steak & Eggs (breakfast for me & dh)
Peanut Butter Cookies

Grocery Game

2009-01-05T06:21:00.000-08:00

I joined Grocery Game to help save money at the grocery store. The trial is for 28 days and costs only $1. After that they will charge you every 8 weeks, $10 for the 1st store and $5 for each additional store.

They tell you the weekly sales for the stores in your area (you pay by the store). They also tell you which coupons to use to maximize your savings (and when the coupon ran). They also give you links for printable coupons.

For the trial, I signed up for all the stores in my area, but will probably whittle down to 2-3 when I start paying full price. How many stores I sign up for will depend on how much I save between now & then.

If you sign up, please use my email for a referral. cats75@embarqmail.com

Thanks so much.

Grocery Challenge

2009-01-05T05:16:00.000-08:00

Ok, this year I am also vowing to spend less at the grocery store. I found a blog Jane4Girls that she feeds her family of 4 for $800 or less a year. Now, I know that we can not do that with 7 of us. But, I am going to try to do it for no more than $1600 per year. In 2007 I spent that much in 2 months, so it will take some buckling down.

My first strategy is to use what we have first. After I've done all I can do with what we have, then I will buy groceries....buying on sale items and using coupons.

DH went shopping yesterday (not my best move if I'm trying to save money), but he did want to eat out, and I nipped that in the bud by making breakfast.

Once, I locate the receipt, I will update this post.

I will also take the cost of my Sunday paper out of the budget, because the only reason I buy it is to get the coupons.

$1600 - $1.50 (paper) = $1598.50 left in budget for 2009

Day 4, Decluttering, part 2...Packing up the Kitchen Christmas Decorations

2009-01-04T13:21:00.000-08:00

I put away all my Kitchen Christmas decorations today (except the china).

Here's the left side of my buffet.

Here's the right side of my buffet.

Here's my gingerbread wreath. The utensil ornaments hanging from it are from my best friend.

Here's the miniature utensil ornaments that my best friend bought me for Christmas....Thanks Tami ;) Next year they will hang on my 32" fiber optic tree that I bought after Christmas for only $6, along with some other ornaments I bought for it.

Day 4, Decluttering...Fridge

2009-01-04T04:36:00.000-08:00

Today's project was organizing my refrigerator.

Ok, I forgot to take a before pic, but all I tossed was a couple of half empty condiment bottles, that we won't be using anytime soon. So, it wasn't that different, just unorganized.

Inside of the fridge. I had no idea it was so empty...just sent dh to get some milk :) Guess I could have cleaned it while I was rearranging everything. Oh, darn, I forgot to tell him to get more eggs.

Here's the inside of the door. The bottom row is empty because the rail broke.

Day 3, Decluttering...Putting away the decorations, pt. 3

2009-01-03T15:44:00.000-08:00

Next 10 Ornaments (last 10 of today)...

Precious Moments

Precious Moments 2

Roses painted by me 2001. there were 12, we are down to 3 :(

Rudolph (CNB)

Santa painted by me in 1998....yes, he needs a touch up.

Santa (cracker barrel)

Santa paintbrush (CNB)

snowboy (cracker barrel)

snowman cd (CNB)

Star (CNB)

Day 3, Decluttering...Putting away the decorations, pt. 2

2009-01-03T15:24:00.001-08:00

Part 2...the next 10 ornaments :)

Dancing Star (CNB)

2001 Eeyore.......I love me some Eeyore, you'll probably see his face again ;) (disney store)

Embroidered ornament (Rhonda at CNB)...isn't it beautiful?

Jacob's Duke Homestead field trip stocking Kind. (2007, 5yo)

Jacob's stocking 1st grade He made this for his baby sister's (Cheyanna) 1st Christmas...isn't that sweet? (2008, 6yo)

Jacob's snowman Pre-K (2006, 4yo)

Jesus is the reason for the Season (CNB)

Mitten (CNB)

Nativity (CNB) Isn't it pretty?

Pink Cascading Stars (Cracker Barrel)

Day 3, Decluttering...Putting away the decorations, pt. 1

2009-01-03T05:19:00.000-08:00

Sorry I have not posted yet today....I have been busy doing laundry AND putting it away as it comes out of the dryer...what a novel idea!! Lol, I am known to let it pile up til it's about 10 loads (yes, that is possible in one day around here). And then have a ton to put away all at once. So, in a way you could say I've been decluttering my laundry pile...Sorry no pics for that one ;)

Today I am going through my Christmas boxes. Not all the ornaments got placed on the tree this year, b/c I didn't get it decorated til 4am Christmas Day (blushing now), but I promise to do better next year. I only opened 2 boxes of Christmas decorations (of 6). There will probably be more boxes this year. The ornaments on the tree will stay up through epiphany (January 6).

Most of our ornaments are homemade (by the kids or through an exchange I do every year), they look old-fashioned or rustic, or the kids' ornaments that they collect. Most, but not all.

Here are the first 10 ornaments:

apple flag (cracker barrel)

Bell ornament from an exchange at CNB

Blue Cascading Stars...got these at Cracker Barrel

Caity's Feliz Navidad stocking 1st grade (2007 6yo)

Caity's 1st grade snowman (2007 6yo)

Caity's Chrismon Kind. @ Sunday School (2006, 5yo)

Caity's Dalmatian Kind. (2006, 5yo)

Cardinal (cracker barrel)

Cat in the Hat (KFC??)

Santa's Clipboard (CNB)

Day 2 Decluttering

2009-01-02T09:01:00.000-08:00

Ok, I bet you thought I'd already given up on my resolution;) Guess what...not yet :D

The 1st project of today is one drawer from my scrapbook organizer, gasp....Don't judge ;) It's scary!! But in my defense, I haven't scrapped in over 3 years, so things just kind of got shoved in there the last time I scrapped, and I never gave it another thought.

Here's my before picture....see, I told you it was scary.

Here it is all dumped out...egads!!

This is the good stuff...I weeded out all the scraps and any bent or torn papers.

This is the trash. That's a bunch (there doesn't look like there should still be anything out of the drawer).

The pile on the left is stuff I'm keeping. The pile on the left will be freecycled. I know, I know, I'm keeping more than I'm getting rid of. But it's only 1 drawer, geez....And, I did get rid of more than I kept if you count the trash ;)

Here's the keep stuff, semi-neat back in the drawer, I think it looks much better than the before picture.

And here's the giveaway pile.

Like I said, there's no rhyme or reason to where my decluttering adventures will take me....and, yes, it is driving me nuts to not have a "schedule"....but I am trying.

My New Year's Goals

2009-01-02T04:15:00.001-08:00

As you can already tell, decluttering is one of them ;) I've already gotten started on that one.

My other goal is to lose 25 pounds by the end of March. I've already lost 30 :D

Smart Shopper

2009-01-02T04:06:00.000-08:00

Jane4Girls is hosting a giveaway for a smart shopper. You have 4 chances to win. Now get over there and play :D Drawing is Monday at noon.

Day 1 Decluttering, EOD

2009-01-01T15:38:00.000-08:00

Well, all in all, I don't think it was a bad day of decluttering. I got 4 drawers done and the medicine cabinet (twice...blush).

We'll see where tomorrow leads us........remember no plans ;)

Day 1 Decluttering, part 5

2009-01-01T15:23:00.000-08:00

Moving on to Rory's undergarments drawer...

Before...not to bad.

After....hats, tights, underpants, cubbies vest. Took out 2 pairs of underpants that were tossed.

Day 1 Decluttering, part 4

2009-01-01T14:40:00.000-08:00

There must be some unwritten law...when mommy is cooking and cleaning, we should be destroying...at least that's how it goes in this household.

My next victim was Brea's undergarments drawer. None of this stuff is being given away, just tossed.

Before...I can already see a Barbie's head sticking out. Don't think she belongs in there...

After...mittens, socks, tights, underpants, sparks vest. Looks good. I got rid of Mariposa Barbie AND wings, a purse, a chapstick, underpants of Rory's and 3 pair that needed tossing.

Day 1 Decluttering, part 3b

2009-01-01T14:35:00.000-08:00

Ok, you can tell it really bugged me, so I had to go back and fix it ;) I moved the kids' extras to the bottom shelf (moved the extra nyquil to the top of the cabinet) and on my way to the bathroom, I grabbed more of the kids' lotions and the girls' "make up" that they got for Christmas, and put it in the bottom shelf, too.

Top of cabinet: air freshener, extra nyquil, peroxide, alcohol, shampoo, my extra body washes & lotions.

In rounding up the kids' extra items, I found my nail polish, so I put it away too ;)

kids' chapsticks,lotions, body washes, and the girls' make up.

AFTER :)

Day 1 Decluttering, part 3

2009-01-01T14:09:00.000-08:00

Ok, this time there are no before pics, only after...and here's why...my 3yo, Rory, decided she was going to knock down the medicine cabinet & i went running to the bathroom to find the medicine cabinet and everything it contained in the floor in a big jumbled mess. So, I picked up what I wanted to keep and put it away. I tossed a few things that I didn't want to put away again, lol.

This is the top of the medicine cabinet. The kids "extra" body washes, lotion and chapsticks, air freshener, alcohol, peroxide, extra shampoo and my extra body washes & lotions. The extra body washes, lotions and chapstick were all Christmas gifts & stocking stuffers.

This is the top shelf inside the cabinet....MY shelf... It has my face wash, face lotion, foot cream, shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, body spray, contacts and diabetes test strips.

This is the middle shelf...dh's shelf. shampoo, conditioner, body wash, deodorant, razor & cartridges, shaving cream and his meds (nyquil, dayquil, icy hot-old man-, and his Rx.

bottom shelf just an extra nyquil.

My medicine cabinet....thinking now that all the kids' extras should go on the bottom shelf??? Hmmmmmm...........

Baking Gingerbread Cookies with Brea & Rory

2009-01-01T08:48:00.000-08:00

I already had the dough in my freezer...you really didn't expect pics of me making the dough with a 5yo & 3yo helping, did you???

My 2 little helpers Brea & Rory...yes, that is chocolate all over their faces. They got into their nana's dirt cake, lol.

Yes, I only made 6. One each for Brea & Rory now, and then one for each of them tonight after dinner. It doesn't matter how many I make, they'll eat them all.

Here they are fresh out of the oven. I put them in the freezer for a few minutes to cool them down enough to frost.

Here they are decorated by my girls....with a little help ;)

Day 1 Decluttering, part 2

2009-01-01T07:08:00.000-08:00

Well, I moved over to Brea's pj drawer. She didn't have nearly as much.

Here's the before pic...not so bad.

Here's the dumped pile. 2 shirts don't have bottoms (they were some of those get 2 shirts, 1 pair pants that the grandparents seem to have to buy...), 1 bottom is just pj pants, so i took one of the tops that doesnt have bottoms and put it with the pj pants...that just left 1 top to give away. I do know she has 1 pr. pj's in the hamper, so that will give her 7 pairs total.

Here are the 5 pair that match up now.

These were the leftovers 2 tops (both the same) and 1 bottoms.

Her newly organized drawer

Day 1 Decluttering, part 1

2009-01-01T05:21:00.000-08:00

Ok, I know yesterday I hinted that I might start in the kitchen, but I found out that a local family lost their home & everything they owned in a fire the day after Christmas. They have girls around the ages of Rory & Brea....so I am starting in their clothes first.

I spied Rory's pajama drawer and it was overflowing...she had 18 pairs of pajamas...how did that happen???? The sad thing is, most of them are in the hamper...she was missing 10 tops, 1 bottom & 1 whole set (her new Christmas pj's).

Here's the pile of them....still missing those 10 tops, 1 bottom & 1 set. Doesn't look like much, but she's only a 3T...we would not have been able to get away with shoving this much into a drawer if it were Caity or Jacob.

Here are the 6 pairs that completely matched.

Here are the things missing mates...

Here is her newly organized pj drawer....it's still missing 4 tops & 1 bottom & her new Christmas pj's that are going to be kept. If that makes it too full, she will be getting rid of more.

So, I took 6 of the pants that were awaiting matches and set aside for this family. As soon as I wash the tops and match them back up, they will go into the giveaway bag.

Decluttering

2008-12-31T18:50:00.000-08:00

We have a very small house, so we don't have room for lots of things like most people. But, we still have too much. So everyday, I am going to be working on a different project to keep me busy and off of this computer as much as possible.

I will post my progress here, along with before and after pictures. I am not going to set a "schedule" or a "plan", because I tend to get anal about such things, making very detailed lists and then kicking myself when they don't get done to my perfectionist standards....there my secret is out. I am anal and a perfectionist, lol. Add to that a procrastinator, and you have one very stressed out lady, lol.

I "think" tomorrow I will start on my kitchen. My dog Bailey has been helping me to declutter my kitchen....he has broken several things that were left lying around (on the table or buffet or counter) and eats anything not put away (like loaves of bread....haha). While he has broken several of my favorite things (my Pampered Chef Rectangular casserole dish for one), I know it is because I do not have enough room to put everything away. We have 2 cabinets (1 is a double and 1 is a single). But, I still have probably much more than I need. I love to bake and cook, so I have a lot of things. It's a catch22....either I don't have the things to do what I love, or I have everything I need, but no room to do what I love....

So, here's to getting rid of things I don't have room for in 2009...

Carrot Cake

2008-12-29T14:42:00.000-08:00

Cast of characters (cake): flour, baking soda, salt, baking powder, cinnamon, carrots, sugar, salad oil, eggs, walnuts (the shortening is for greasing the pan).

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease & flour a 13x10" pan; set aside.

Put flour in a large mixing bowl.

Add baking soda (I know ya can't see it..lol)

Add salt.

Add baking powder.

Add cinnamon.

Mix dry ingredients.

Make a well in the dry ingredients.

Put carrots in a large bowl. I couldn't find another, so I used my pie plate...big mistake, lol...too shallow.

Add sugar.

Add oil.

Crack one egg at a time and add separately.

Add walnuts.

Ingredients of part 2, aren't they purty???

Mix ingredients together.

Pour into dry ingredients.

Mix well and pour into pan.

Ready to bake.

Fresh out of the oven. I was in a hurry and couldn't wait until it was completely cool to frost....so, I let it cool for 30 minutes, then stuck in my freezer (don't do it before then or you will shatter your dish). It only sat in the freezer about 15 minutes, long enough for it to cool enough to frost, and for me to make the icing.

Cast of characters (icing): cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla.

Put softened cream cheese in mixing bowl.

Add softened butter.

Add vanilla.

Add powdered sugar.

Mix icing ingredients well.

My cooled cake & freshly mixed icing...ready to comingle ;)

Just the icing.....oh yes, it is richly sweet.

Looks halfway done, doesn't it....oh no, this baby will be THICK with icing when I get through with it.

Tada......oh and by the way, you don't have to, but you can sprinkle walnuts over the top of this. I did, but forgot to snap an extra pic of it.

Carrot Cake

Recipe By : Cherylann
Serving Size : 16
Categories : Cakes

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
Cake-Part 1:
2 cups flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking powder
2 teaspoons cinnamon

Cake-Part 2:
2 jars junior baby food chopped carrots
2 cups sugar
1 cup salad oil
4 eggs
1/2 cup chopped walnuts

Cream Cheese Frosting:
8 ounces cream cheese
4 Tablespoons butter -- at room temperature
8 oz. powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla

Preheat oven to 350°. Grease and flour a 13X10" pan; set aside.

Mix together flour, baking soda, salt, baking powder and cinnamon; set aside.

Mix together carrots, sugar, oil, eggs and walnuts.

Make a well in the dry ingredients and add carrots mixture. Mix well and pour into pan.

Bake 45-60 minutes. Test with toothpick. Cool cake.

Mix frosting ingredients together. Frost cake.

Chocolate Cherry Crunch

2008-12-29T10:11:00.001-08:00

Cast of Characters: cherry pie filling; fudge brownie mix; chopped pecans; quick-cooking oats; melted, unsalted butter.

Preheat oven to 350°.

Pour pie filling in the bottom of an ungreased 13X9" baking pan; set aside.

Pour brownie mix in a large bowl.

Mix in pecans and oats.

Blend in melted butter with dry ingredients together until coarse crumbs form; sprinkle over pie filling. The best way to mix it is to just dig in and get your hands dirty.

Note: I put in too much butter (twice the amount), so it should be drier, kind of like streusel. Also, I didn't completely melt the butter, but it was close enough.

Bake for 30 minutes. Cherries should be bubbly.

Chocolate-Cherry Crunch

Recipe By : Cherylann
Serving Size : 12
Categories : Desserts

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
29 ounces cherry pie filling
1 package fudge brownie mix
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1 cup quick-cooking oats
3/4 cup unsalted butter -- melted

Preheat oven to 350°.

Pour pie filling in the bottom of an ungreased 13X9" baking pan; set aside.

Blend remaining ingredients together until coarse crumbs form; sprinkle over pie filling.

Bake for 30 minutes.

Say Thank You to a Troop

2008-12-09T07:03:00.000-08:00

They give everything for us. Make sure to remember to say thank you...my little boy did a couple of weeks ago, and it made me bawl like a baby to see my baby with his arms around a marine saying thank you.

Merry Christmas, My Friend

By Corporal James M. Schmidt

Twas the night before Christmas, he lived all alone,
In a one bedroom house made of plaster and stone.

I had come down the chimney, with presents to give
and to see just who in this home did live

As I looked all about, a strange sight I did see,
no tinsel, no presents, not even a tree.
No stocking by the fire, just boots filled with sand.
On the wall hung pictures of a far distant land.

With medals and badges, awards of all kind,
a sobering thought soon came to my mind.
For this house was different, unlike any I'd seen.
This was the home of a US Marine.

I'd heard stories of them, I had to see more,
so I walked down the hall and pushed open the door.
And there he lay sleeping, silent, alone,
Curled up on the floor ini his one-bedroom home.

He seemed so gentle, his face so serene,
Not how I pictured a US Marine.
Was this the hero, of whom I'd just read?
Curled up in his poncho a floor for his bed?
His head was clean-shaven, his weathered face tan.
I soon understood, this was more than a man.
For I realized the families that I saw that night,
owed their lives to these men, who were willing to fight.

Soon around the nation, the children would play,
And grown-ups would celebrate on a bright Christmas day.
They all enjoyed freedom, each month and all year,
because of Marines like this one lying here.

I couldn't help wonder how many lay alone,
on a cold Christmas Eve, in a land far from home.
Just the very thought brought a tear to my eye.
I dropped to my knees and I started to cry.

He must have awoken, for I heard a rough voice,
"Santa, don't cry, this life is my choice
I fight for freedom, I don't ask for more.
My life is my God, my country, my Corps."

With that he rolled over, drifted off into sleep,
I couldn't control it, I continued to weep.

I watched him for hours, so silent and still.
I noticed he shivered from the cold night's chill.
So I took off my jacket, the one made of red,
and covered this Marine from his toes to his head.
Then I put on his T-shirt of scarlet and gold,
with an eagle, globe and anchor emblazoned so bold.
And although it barely fit me, I began to swell with pride,
and for one shining moment, I was Marine Corps deep inside.

I didn't want to leave him so quiet in the night,
this guardian of honor so willing to fight.
But half asleep he rolled over, and in a voice clean and pure,
said "Carry on, Santa, it's Christmas Day, all secure."
One look at my watch and i knew he was right,
Merry Christmas my friend, Semper Fi and goodnight.

3 weeks til CHRISTmas

2008-12-04T04:52:00.000-08:00

I am no where near ready, is anyone else?

I am having trouble getting into the mood for some reason this year. I just am so busy doing the same things over & over that I don't have any energy leftover to worry about decorating, shopping, wrapping, baking, etc. I know everyone is busy, I'm not the only one. But, just wish things could stay clean for more than 5 seconds at a time.

'Tis the Season....

2008-11-29T05:39:00.000-08:00

Well, Thanksgiving is over. Yesterday I went Black Friday shopping and picked up a few things. Today I am getting the house deep cleaned (again), so I can start decorating/baking for Christmas. Today's list is probably (most likely) so long that it won't get finished today, but here it is:

Saturday 11/29/08:
o Burn tarts
o Pick up changing table & high chair
o Put away ALL fall decorations
o Put away ALL Thanksgiving decorations
o Put away ALL year round decorations
o Wash ALL dishes
o Deep Clean Kitchen
o Deep Clean Entrance
o Deep Clean Living Room
o Straighten Bathroom
o Straighten Laundry Room
o Straighten Master Bedroom
o Straighten Kids’ room
o Rearrange Kitchen
o Move out all boxes
o Move J’s bed to MBR
o Move Chey’s bed & dresser to girls’ room
o Move nursing chair
o Set up DR table
o Set up gift wrap center
o Set up tree (24 hours)
o Decorate Entrance
o Decorate Kitchen
o Decorate Buffets
o Wrap gifts
o Daily chores
o Weekly chores
o Monthly chores
o November chores
o Bake/Make:
o Cookies
o Sausage balls
o Pumpkin squares
o Thanksgiving Casserole
o Candies
o Teacher gifts
o Cool & package cookies, candies, teacher gifts

Monday 11/24/08 Thankful

2008-11-24T09:49:00.000-08:00

Outside my window...it looks like snow.

I am thinking...how I was told (by a very good friend) how I need to not focus on what I can't have but to be thankful for the little things I do have.

I am thankful for...my kids and my friend.

From the learning rooms...I am learning that it's ok to take care of me, too.

From the kitchen...I know that I need to get back in there and make bread dough ;)

I am wearing...jeans, a button up shirt and my apron.

I am creating...my Thanksgiving dinner.

I am going...to get back to work in a few minutes.

I am reading...poems.

I am hoping...for some peace.

I am hearing...Who I am by Wade Bowen on my computer.

Around the house...there is so much to be done. I need to straighten up and get my cooking/baking done.

One of my favorite things...is to talk with my kiddos about what is important to them. And chatting with my friend.

A few plans for the rest of the week: work on this house; bake/cook; laundry; Thanksgiving here at home Thursday; Black Friday shopping, Christmas decorating/wrapping gifts & Thanksgiving for dh's family Friday;

Here is picture thought I am sharing...

Anyone ready for Pecan Pie??

Visit for more at: Simple Woman's Daybook

UPDATE

2008-11-24T04:38:00.000-08:00

SUNDAY DONES:
o Grocery shop for Thanksgiving
o Make Pumpkin Pies (HIDE)
o Chocolate Chess Pies (HIDE)
o Pecan Pies (HIDE)
o Thaw turkey in the refrigerator
o Straighten bathroom
o Straighten laundry room
o Work on deep cleaning Living Room
o Straighten as I go in the kitchen
o Laundry
o Daily Chores
o Weekly Chores
o Monthly Chores

Sunday NEED TO ADD TO TODAY:
o Cooking:
o Make sausage balls (HIDE)
o Make Dill Snack Mix (HIDE)
o Pumpkin Squares (HIDE)
make cherry pies (HIDE)

Monday:
o Pick up the few items I forgot
o Cooking:
o Bake bread (HIDE)
o Bake rolls (HIDE)
o Make Cranberry Sauce
o Finish thawing turkey in the refrigerator
o Straighten Bathroom (if needed)
o Straighten laundry room (if needed)
o Finish deep cleaning living room
o Deep clean master bedroom
o Straighten as I go in the kitchen
o Laundry
o Daily chores
o Weekly chores
o Monthly chores
o November chores

Thanksgiving baking so far...

2008-11-23T20:15:00.000-08:00

Here's my baking so far. Three deep dish pumpkin pies, a pecan pie and a chocolate chess pie.

So far, so good

2008-11-23T18:20:00.000-08:00

So far today I have marked off my list:

grocery shopping for Thanksgiving
made 3 deep dish pumpkin pies
made 1 deep dish pecan pie (baking now)
made 1 deep dish chocolate chess pie (baking now)
turkey is thawing in fridge
straightened the bathroom
straightened the laundry room
worked on deep cleaning the living room
laundry
Daily chores
weekly chores

still left to do:
make sausage balls
make dill snack mix
make pumpkin squares
straighten kitchen (been doing this as i go along)

This Week's Plans

2008-11-23T13:46:00.001-08:00

Sunday:
o Grocery shop for Thanksgiving
o Cooking:
o Make sausage balls (HIDE)
o Make Dill Snack Mix (HIDE)
o Make Pumpkin Pies (HIDE)
o Chocolate Chess Pies (HIDE)
o Pecan Pies (HIDE)
o Pumpkin Squares (HIDE)
o Thaw turkey in the refrigerator
o Straighten bathroom
o Straighten laundry room
o Work on deep cleaning Living Room
o Straighten as I go in the kitchen
o Laundry
o Daily Chores
o Weekly Chores
o Monthly Chores

Monday:
o Pick up the few items I forgot
o Cooking:
o Bake bread (HIDE)
o Bake rolls (HIDE)
o Make Cranberry Sauce
o Finish thawing turkey in the refrigerator
o Straighten Bathroom (if needed)
o Straighten laundry room (if needed)
o Finish deep cleaning living room
o Deep clean master bedroom
o Straighten as I go in the kitchen
o Laundry
o Daily chores
o Weekly chores
o Monthly chores
o November chores

Tuesday:
o Cooking:
o Cookies
o Anything I haven’t had time for so far
o Brine turkey
o Straighten Bathroom (if needed)
o Straighten laundry room (if needed)
o Straighten Living Room
o Straighten Master bedroom (if needed)
o Deep Clean Kitchen
o Deep Clean Kids’ Bedroom (and PRAY they keep it that way at least until Friday  ).
o Deep Clean Entrance
o Decorate Entrance
o Laundry
o Daily chores
o Weekly chores
o Monthly chores
o November chores
o Get thanksgiving china out and washed

Wednesday:
o Cooking:
o Finish brining turkey
o Make 2 gallons sweet tea
o Make 1 gallon unsweet tea
o Make 1 gallon ice water
o Make 1 gallon lemonade
o Straighten bathroom (if needed)
o Straighten laundry room (if needed)
o Straighten living room
o Straighten master bedroom (if needed)
o Straighten kitchen
o Straighten kids’ bedroom
o Straighten entrance (if needed)
o Deep clean desk
o Laundry
o Daily chores
o Weekly chores
o Monthly chores
o November chores
o Set up tables
o Decorate
o Set out centerpieces

Thursday (Just our family and my mom at our house):
o Have Scott pick up a newspaper
o Cooking:
o Cook turkey
o Make gravy
o Make macaroni & cheese
o Make corn
o Make green beans
o Make turnip greens
o Make sweet potato casserole
o Straighten bathroom (if needed)
o Straighten laundry room (if needed)
o Straighten living room
o Straighten master bedroom (if needed)
o Straighten kitchen….do as much as I can while cooking
o Straighten kids’ bedroom
o Straighten entrance (if needed)
o Daily chores
o Burn tarts
o Enjoy the holiday
o Clean up after lunch
o Take down tables
o Take down fall decorations and put away for another year 
o Put tree up, and let sit for 24 hours
o Set up gift wrapping station

Friday (Thanksgiving at dh’s parents’ house):
o Black Friday up by 3am, out the door by 4am Christmas shopping…..FINISH EVERYONE’s shopping, plus any decorations, etc. Need to be home by 2pm.
o Already completed:
 Scott
 Mom
 MIL
o Grocery store…pick up items to make apple pies, chocolate chess pies & snickers pie
o HIDE (S) gifts
o Cooking:
o Bake apple pies
o Bake chocolate chess pies
o Make snickers pies
o Bake bread
o Shape tree
o Light tree
o Decorate tree
o SLOWLY start decorating the house
o Dinner at in-laws
o Make gift tags
o Start wrapping Christmas gifts, put under tree

Saturday:
o Straighten all rooms
o Cooking:
o Thanksgiving casserole
o Bake Christmas cookies
o Make Christmas candies
o Make teachers’ gifts
o Cool & package cookies, candies & teacher gifts
o Work on decorating the house
o Finish wrapping presents, put under the tree

Sunday:
o Put up Christmas lights
o Decorate the yard

Thanksgiving 2008

2008-11-23T12:41:00.000-08:00

This year's Plan will be a little simpler. We are only having my mom over this year, so there will only be 8 of us (and Chey won't be doing much eating, lol). So,

So, I am only going to make two of the appetizers and the am not making the sourdough bread.

I've also omitted several desserts, because I can't have any (sugars out of control), and Chey won't either...so only 6 people will be eating those.

We still should have plenty of those.
Appetizers/Snacks:
Sausage Balls
Dill Snack Mix

Main Course:
Brined, Roasted Turkey

Side Dishes:
Dressing (mom)
Gravy
Greasy Rice (mom)
Mashed Potatoes (mom)
Deviled Eggs (mom)
Baked Macaroni & Cheese
Corn
Green Beans
Turnip Greens
Sweet Potato Casserole
Cranberry Sauce

Breads:
Homemade Rolls & Bread

Desserts:
Deep-Dish Pumpkin Pies
Chocolate Chess Pie
Pecan Pie
Cherry Pie
Pumpkin Squares
Cookies (not sure which kind yet, so I haven't included recipes, but
I'm sure I've already posted the recipes, so check my labels or
archives for my cookie recipes).

Beverages:
Tea (sweet & unsweet)
Lemonade
Water

Mom's Sausage Balls
Recipe by: Cherylann
Categories : Appetizers

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese -- grated
2 pounds sausage
4 cups Bisquick® baking mix

Preheat oven to 350°.

Ingredients should be at room temperature. Combine all ingredients and shape into 1" balls.

Bake for about 20 minutes or until golden brown.

NOTES : To freeze: Flash freeze on a cookie sheet for about 15 minutes. Then put into labeled zipper bags in desired quantities (however many you'd like to gift or take to a party). Freeze.

To reheat: Heat in 350 oven for 15 minutes or in microwave for 1-2 minutes on 50% power.

Dill Snack Mix
Recipe by: Cherylann
Categories : Snacks

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
10 ounces Cheez-its
10 ounces Wheat Thins® crackers
10 ounces tiny twist pretzels
Dressing:
1 package Hidden Valley Original Ranch Party Dip Mix -- NOT the salad dressing mix
3 Tablespoons dill weed
3/4 cup canola oil

In a big bowl, combine the crackers and pretzels.

Mix together the dressing ingredients. Pour oil mixture over crackers and pretzels, mix well, about 5 minutes (the best method for mixing is to use your hands). Divide the mixture and microwave in 2 batches, uncovered. Cook each batch 1 minute, stir, cook 1 more minute, stir, then cook another 30 seconds.

Cover and store in a tin; keeps for weeks.

Juicy Turkey Brine
Recipe by: Cherylann
Serving Size : 15

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
1 gallon vegetable broth (use low sodium)
1 cup sea salt or kosher salt
1 Tablespoon dried rosemary -- crushed
1 Tablespoon dried sage
1 Tablespoon dried thyme
1 Tablespoon dried savory
1 gallon ice water

In a large stock pot, combine the vegetable broth, sea salt, rosemary, sage, thyme, and savory. Bring to a boil, stirring frequently to be sure salt is dissolved. Remove from heat, and let cool to room temperature. Place brining bag into a 5 gallon bucket.

When the broth mixture is cool, pour it into brining bag. Stir in the ice water.

Wash and Dry your turkey. Make sure you have removed the innards. Place the turkey, breast down, into the brine. Make sure that the cavity gets filled. Place in a bucket in the refrigerator. Marinade for 12 hours to 2 days.

Remove the turkey carefully draining off the excess brine. Rinse well and pat dry. Discard excess brine.

Cook the turkey as desired (according to PW's instructions) reserving the drippings for gravy. Keep in mind that brined turkeys cook 20 to 30 minutes faster so watch the temperature gauge.

**For Roasted Turkey & Gravy use PW’s recipes**

Ultimate Macaroni & Cheese
Recipe by: Cherylann
Serving Size : 12
Categories : Side Dishes

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
24 ounces elbow macaroni -- cooked
36 ounces processed American cheese -- cut up
1 cup milk
1/2 teaspoon pepper
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Preheat oven to broil.

Add processed cheese, milk and pepper to macaroni; mix well. Cook on low heat until cheese is melted, stirring frequently.

Lightly grease a 2-quart casserole dish. Add macaroni and cheese mixture to dish. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top. Put in oven, checking every few minutes. Take out when cheddar cheese is melted and golden brown.

Sweet Potato Casserole
Recipe by: Cherylann
Serving Size : 6
Categories : Holiday Dinner Side Dishes

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
3 large sweet potatoes
1 cup sugar
2 eggs
1/2 cup butter -- softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Crunch Topping:
1/3 cup butter -- melted
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup brown sugar
1 cup pecans -- chopped
1 Tablespoon cinnamon

Boil potatoes til tender. Take skin off when cooled and able to handle.

Preheat oven to 350°.

Put potatoes in a large bowl and whip them til fluffy adding all other ingredients. Pour into a buttered casserole and top with the crunch topping. Bake for 45 minutes.

Whole-Berry Cranberry Sauce
Recipe by: Cherylann
Serving Size : 8
Categories : Holiday Dinner Side Dishes

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
1 pound fresh cranberries
1 cup water
1 cup sugar

Combine all ingredients in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, cover, then turn to medium heat. Continue cooking until all the berries pop. Remove from heat and let cool. Refrigerate until cold, or serve warm.

Perfect White Bread

Recipe By : Cherylann
Serving Size : 16
Categories : Breads

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
1 package active dry yeast
1 cup lukewarm water
2 Tablespoons sugar
2 teaspoons salt
1/4 cup Crisco
1 cup hot milk
5 cups enriched flour

Soften yeast in 1/4 cup of the lukewarm water for 5 minutes, then stir until blended. Measure sugar, salt and Crisco into mixing bowl, pour hot milk over them and stir, mashing Crisco against sides of bowl until broken into small lumps. Add remaining water and cool to lukewarm. Stir in 1 cup flour. Add yeast and 2 more cups flour and beat with a wooden spoon until batter is smooth and elastic. Stir in 1 1/2 to 2 cups more flour, then, with floured fingers, work in enough additional flour to make a soft dough that does not stock to the fingers.

Turn dough onto lightly floured board and knead for 2 minutes, about 100 kneading strokes. Shape dough into a ball and put it in a bowl rubbed with Crisco. Spread surface of dough lightly with Crisco, cover with a towel and let dough rise until double in bulk, about 1 1/2 hours. Punch dough down and turn onto floured board. Cut dough in half and shape each half into a smooth ball. Shape each ball into a loaf and put into bread pan rubbed with Crisco. Cover pans with a towel and let bread rise until the sides of the raised bread reach the top of the pans and the center is nicely rounded above it, about 1 hour.

To bake: Preheat oven to 400°. Bake loaves for 45 to 50 minutes, or until golden brown.

When baked: Turn loaves from pans immediately to keep crust crisp, and cool on a cake rack. For a soft, tender crust: Brush loaves with Crisco as soon as they come from oven.

Yield:
"2 loaves"

NOTES : For one loaf of perfect bread and one dozen rolls: Make Perfect White Bread and let rise until double in bulk. Punch down dough and divide in half. Shape one half into a loaf and follow directions for rising and baking. Divide remaining dough into twelve portions and shape each portion into a round roll. Place rolls 2 inches apart on baking sheet rubbed with Crisco, cover and let rise until double in bulk, about 1 1/2 hours. Bake at 400° for 15 minutes, or until browned.

Yeast Rolls

Recipe By : Cherylann
Categories : Biscuits & Rolls

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
6 cups bread flour -- 6-8 cups
2 packets dry yeast
2 cups milk
1 Tablespoon salt
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup sugar
3 eggs -- beaten

In a large mixing bowl, mix 4 cups. of flour with the yeast. Set aside. Pour the milk, salt, oil and sugar into a pot, stirring to mix, and place over medium heat until lukewarm. Pour the milk mixture into the flour and yeast; beat until smooth. Add the eggs, stirring hard to mix well (use your hands). One cup at a time, add as much of the remaining flour as needed to form a soft dough. Put the dough on cutting block. Let it rise to double its size. Knead dough 12-15 times. Roll out on floured block until about 1/2" thick. Cut rolls. Place rolls in a lightly greased baking pan. Let rise again until doubled in size. Bake for 15-20 minutes.

2 Deep-Dish Pumpkin Pies
Recipe by: Cherylann
Serving Size : 16
Categories : Pies & Cheesecakes

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
1 1/2 cups sugar
1 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
4 large eggs
3 3/4 cups pumpkin puree
24 ounces evaporated milk
2 9" deep dish pie shells

Preheat oven to 425°.

Mix sugar, salt, cinnamon, ginger and cloves in small bowl. Beat eggs in large bowl. Stir in pumpkin and sugar-spice mixture. Gradually stir in evaporated milk.

Pour into pie shells.

Bake for 15 minutes. Reduce temperature to 350°; bake 40-50 minutes or until knife inserted near center comes out clean. Cool on wire rack for 2 hours.

Serve immediately or refrigerate.

Yield:
"2 pies"

Do NOT freeze pie. The crust will separate from the filling.

Chocolate Chess Pie
Recipe by: Cherylann
Categories : Pies & Cheesecakes

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
3 eggs
1 1/2 cups sugar
1/4 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla
1/4 cup cocoa
1 stick butter
pinch salt
9 inch pie shell -- unbaked

Preheat oven to 350°.

Combine cocoa, butter and milk in saucepan.

Cook over low heat until smooth.

Remove from heat, add sugar, eggs and vanilla; beat well.

Pour into unbaked pie shell.

Bake 30 minutes or until well done.

Pecan Pie
Recipe by: Cherylann
Serving Size : 12
Categories : Holiday Dinner Pies & Cheesecakes

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
4 eggs
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup unsalted butter -- melted
1 1/4 cups light corn syrup
1 1/4 cups firmly packed brown sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 9 inch pie shell -- unbaked
1 cup pecans -- chopped

Preheat oven to 350°.

Beat eggs with a wire whisk or fork. Add salt, butter, syrup, sugar and vanilla; mix well. Pour into pastry shell; sprinkle with pecans.

Bake for 45-50 minutes.

Classic Cherry Pie

Recipe By : Cherylann
Serving Size : 8
Categories : Pies & Cheesecakes

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
1 9 inch pie shell
1 9 inch deep dish pie shell
42 ounces cherry pie filling

Preheat oven to 425°.

Pour cherry pie filling into deep dish pie shell. Place vented or lattice crust (9" pie shell) over filling or create decorative top crust using cookie cutters to make shapes. Lay directly on fruit filling. Crimp edges to seal.

Bake for 15 minutes.

Reduce heat to 325°. Bake an additional 30 minutes or until crust is golden brown.

Pumpkin Dessert Squares
Recipe by: Cherylann
Serving Size : 16
Categories : Brownies & Bars

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
1 box yellow cake mix -- reserve 1 cup
1 stick unsalted butter -- melted
1/2 stick unsalted butter -- cold, and cut into small chunks
3 eggs -- divided
1 jar Pecan Pumpkin Butter
2 Tablespoons milk
1 Tablespoon all-purpose flour
1/4 cup sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Preheat oven to 350°. Lightly grease a 13 X 9" baking pan. Set aside reserved 1 cup cake mix. Stir remaining cake mix, melted butter and one of the eggs. Pour into prepared pan. In another bowl, stir the Pecan Pumpkin Butter, remaining eggs and milk. Pour over the cake batter in the pan. Mix together flour, sugar, cinnamon and reserved cake mix; stir to combine. Add the cold butter. Using a pastry blender, cut in butter until pea-size crumbs form and the mixture clumps together. Crumble over the Pecan Pumpkin Butter mixture. Bake until golden, about 35-40 minutes. Transfer pan to a wire rack and let cool. Cut into squares and serve.

OAMC NB

2008-11-08T04:27:00.000-08:00

Join my OAMC notebook yahoo group:

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/OAMCNB/

OAMC Notebook Lesson 2-Tips, Plan Your Menu & Grocery Lists, Supplies Needed:

2008-11-08T04:26:00.000-08:00

****First of all make sure your inventories are up to date and fridge, pantry & freezer(s) are cleaned out.****

Supplies:
o Large quantity of good freezer quality gallon bags
o Permanent marker, I use the fine tip
o Tall, not very wide container (I put my bag into this, so that the bag stands up while I am putting food into it)
o Ladle
o Apron
o Clean towels
o Pen & paper (for updating inventories)
o November & December blank calendar pages ( www.printfree.com ) to assign days to your meals (this is helpful to me so that I don’t plan chicken 3 days in a row, or have 3 days left in the plan and 3 of the same meal, lol)

I will not do my shopping until 11/10 (Monday), so I will do crockpot meals on Sunday 11/9 and Monday 11/10 (shopping day).

Tips for items that freeze well (you can copy this & print to file in your tips section):
o Breads, cakes
o candies
o most soups
o cheesecakes
o most cookies, some cookie dough
o breakfast breads (pancakes, waffles, French toast, crepes)
o meat (cooked or raw & marinated)
o some pies (not meringue or creamy pies such as custard)
o casseroles
o appetizers
o sandwiches
o fruits
o vegetables

TIPS:
o Clean as you go!!!!! You don’t want to be facing a kitchen full of dirty dishes at the end of your session!!!!
o Wear an apron…….believe me, you’ll be glad you did. Just think, you spill a little food on yourself (if you are like me) each time you cook dinner……..well, you are getting ready to prepare 30 meals!! How much do you think you will get on you???

PLANNING:
First you need to decide which method of OAMC’ing you will do.

Will you just double or triple recipes? This is probably the easiest to do, and does not require a lot of planning. But, me being the difficult person I am, lol, like to do an all at once (or over a few days) session for the whole month.

Will you do batch cooking? Like doing all your pork recipes at once, all your chicken, etc, OR either doing all of one type of meal at once…breakfast, breads, lunches, etc.

Another easy way is to do the no pre-cook way. Just assemble kits and put them in the freezer to be cooked later (kind of like the frozen entrees at the store, just better for you, and cheaper).

Will you do it all at once (or over several days) like I usually do?

This month, to keep it simple (the holidays are just around the corner, after all), I am going to use mostly crockpot recipes (no pre-cooking). Just assemble, freeze, thaw, dump in cp & go  Think of this as your very own convenience food aisle. Now, also the good thing about this, is I can do it all at once, or even break it up over the number of meals I chose. Ex. This month I chose 9 oamc meals (with 3 other different meals…you’ll see). So, I can make day 1’s meal, then put the 2 extras in the freezer. On day 2, I can make it and freeze the extras…etc, etc, until I have finished day 9, then I have 18 more meals in the freezer, with not much extra work, and without trying to do it all at once.

So, decide if your family would rather eat something 3 times a month (about every 10 days) or can they only eat it twice a month (about every 15 days)?

Mine isn’t picky, they could even do it once a week….but I like a little more break than that.

When you get your plan together, share it with the group.

I will post mine in the files section.

Now just another note on the joys of recipe software….It took me just a few minutes to decide on my recipes, add them to my menu & print them out COMPLETE WITH grocery lists!!

Now, I am a little anal, so I use MC’s grocery list to mark off what I already have on hand (this is where the inventories come in handy). BUT then when I downsize my list to just include what I need to buy, I transfer it to MS Word and divide by how my store is set up (you will see what I mean when I send my plan for this month).

Assignments:
o Start with a clean fridge, pantry, freezer(s) (do this weekly)
o Make sure your inventories are up to date (update as you go)
o Select your recipes
o Make your plan (when you are going to eat each meal…use calendar pages)
o Make your shopping list (include a cooking software, if you want this to be easier next time around)
o If you save any information to your computer, make sure to back it up to disk.

Next lesson:
Grocery day
OAMC day(s)

Next month we will try a different method 

Happy cooking 

OAMC Notebook Lesson 1-Setting up your Binder, Cleaning out Fridge/Freezer(s) and Inventory:

2008-11-08T04:24:00.000-08:00

Setting Up your binder:
o You do not have to have brand new supplies, this does not have to be perfect. Just recycle what you already have and are not using.
o Grab a binder, about 10-15 dividers (you may need more or less, depending on how many categories you make), a pen and paper.
o Some dividers you will need:
o Lessons
o Tips & Notes
o Menus & Recipes (I do a different plan every month and store it here)
o Grocery Lists (for each monthly plan)
o Recipes (you decide how many different categories to have), mine are listed:
 breakfasts
 appetizers/snacks
 sandwiches
 soups/stews
 main dishes
• casseroles
• crockpot
• mains
 sides
 breads
 desserts (cakes, cookies, pies, etc)
o OPTIONAL:
o Recipe Software, I use MasterCook 8.0 (you can buy this on amazon.com for $8, I’ve heard, I bought mine at Office Max for $10 a few years ago). They do have MC 9.0 for $20, but I think it’s basically the same. I have friends who have 9.0, that had 8.0 and says it has no new features that they are aware of.

This program allows you to add cookbooks and recipes. You can
also plan menus, grocery lists and scale recipes. This has been an
invaluable tool in my oamc
o If you save any information to your computer, make sure to back it up to disk.

Cleaning out Fridge & Freezer(s) & Inventory:
o Keep a pen and paper handy
o The first step in doing an OAMC session is cleaning out your fridge and freezer. You don’t want to go and buy all that food and spend all that money and not have anywhere to store the perishables.
o You need to take everything out of your fridge, wipe down the insides (or scrub if needed).
o Toss anything that is going bad………make a mental note of how many science experiments you had and how much food is going to waste, b/c you didn’t know where it was located or forgot you had it. I used to throw at least 2 trash bags of stuff away, now that I do this weekly & stay on top of my inventories, I rarely have to throw anything away.
o As you are putting things away, jot down what you have and where it’s located.
o Ex. Fridge
 Top shelf
• Milk
• Tea
• Kool-aide

 Middle shelf
• eggs
• bread
• sour cream
• cream cheese
• plain yogurt
o If you add cleaning fridge/freezer and updating your inventories your weekly chores, you will never have too much to do.
o After you’ve cleaned and inventoried your refrigerator, do the small freezer. If you have a large freezer, do that after the small freezer. If either need defrosting, now is a good time to do it.
o I keep an inventory, because it makes it so much easier to know what you have on hand and what is needed. This really makes it so much easier to mark things off of your shopping list if you already have them.
o After all perishables are put back and inventoried, I type them up……makes it easy to search for something later on. I leave printed copies on the fridge or freezer or wherever you inventory for manual updates (ex, if you run out of something, you mark it off). I also add a column to each list labeled Add to shopping List. I’d hate to go to the grocery store and not have any recipes that had milk in them and not have milk for the kids to drink.
o Next, inventory your pantry and anywhere else you store food.
o This seems like a lot to do and may seem daunting, but after the first time, if you keep it up, it won’t be hard to maintain and update.
The first time you OAMC, make sure to have a crockpot meal ready for shopping day and cooking day. I guarantee that you will NOT feel like making dinner those nights. Then next month, you can either have crockpot meals ready for those two days, or go shopping 2 days before you run out of meals and do your oamc the day before you run out (that way if you end up running over and need 2 days to cook, you have an extra meal).

November 2008 OAMC

2008-11-08T04:21:00.000-08:00

Menu/Recipes/Grocery List (this will go behind November’s plan in my NB):
I chose 9 meals to triple, to fit my November’s schedule (the oamc meals are highlighted in blue). It’s a crazy month to say the least, but this plan will last me through 12/10 (my next shopping day).

Menu (I will print out November & December calendars and pencil in these menus):
1. Dinner at Church (November 1)
2. Hillbilly Housewife $70 Menu (November 2-8) (check out the info I sent you in the email from 11/1 or go to her website)
3. Chicken & Rice Casserole (November 9)
4. Lasagna (November 10)
5. Tuscan Rosemary Chicken and White Beans (November 11, 20, December 2)
6. Ham in Cola (November 12, 21, December 3)
7. Beef Stroganoff (November 13, 22, December 4)
8. Swiss Chicken (November 14, 23, December 5)
9. Pork Chops with Mushrooms (November 15, 24, December 6)
10. Meatloaf (November 16, 25, December 7)
11. Chicken Stroganoff (November 17, 26, December 8)
12. Cheesy Sausage Bake (November 18, 30, December 9)
13. Farmhouse Pot Roast (November 19, December 1, 10)
14. Thanksgiving Day with my family (November 27)
15. Thanksgiving with in-law’s (November 28)
16. Thanksgiving Casserole (leftovers November 29)

Recipes:

Chicken-Rice Casserole

Recipe By :Cherylann
Serving Size : 6
Categories : Crockpot

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
6 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 can cream of chicken soup
1 can cream of celery soup
1 can cream of mushroom soup
1/2 cup celery -- diced
1 1/2 cups Minute rice

Mix in crockpot the 3 cans of soup and rice. Place the chicken on top of the mixture, then add the diced celery. Cook for 3 hours on high or 4 hours on low.

Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 317 Calories; 7g Fat (19.6% calories from fat); 56g Protein; 5g Carbohydrate; trace Dietary Fiber; 141mg Cholesterol; 657mg Sodium. Exchanges: 0 Grain(Starch); 7 1/2 Lean Meat; 1/2 Vegetable; 1/2 Fat.

Crockpot Lasagna

Recipe By :Cherylann
Serving Size : 10
Categories : Crockpot

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
8 lasagna noodles -- uncooked
1 pound ground meat
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
28 ounces spaghetti sauce
1/3 cup water
4 ounces sliced mushrooms -- optional
15 ounces ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Brown ground beef in skillet. Drain. Stir in Italian seasoning.

Break noodles into thirds. Place half in bottom of greased crockpot. Spread half of ground beef mixture over noodles in crockpot.
On top of beef, layer 1/2 of sauce, 1/2 of water, 1/2 of mushrooms (opt.), 1/2 of ricotta, and 1/2 of mozzarella cheese. Repeat all layers.
Cover. Cook for 5 hours on low.

Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 488 Calories; 16g Fat (29.5% calories from fat); 20g Protein; 66g Carbohydrate; 4g Dietary Fiber; 42mg Cholesterol; 529mg Sodium. Exchanges: 3 1/2 Grain(Starch); 1 1/2 Lean Meat; 2 1/2 Vegetable; 2 Fat.

Crockpot Tuscan Rosemary Chicken and White Beans (OAMC 3 meals = 18 serv.)

Recipe By :Cherylann
Serving Size : 18
Categories : OAMC

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
2 1/4 cups Italian dressing
18 boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 1/2 cups water
6 cups baby carrots -- sliced
12 medium celery stalks -- sliced
1 1/2 cups drained sun dried tomatoes in oil -- coarsely chopped
6 tablespoons fresh rosemary -- chopped
6 cans navy beans -- drained and rinsed

Divide chicken into 3 labelled gallon ziploc bags.

In a large bowl mix together water and dressing. Divide and pour over chicken. Add carrots, celery, tomatoes, rosemary and beans.

Make sure you get all the air out of the bags, lay flat and freeze.

To prepare: Thaw in refrigerator overnight. Next morning, put in crockpot, cook 6-8 hours over low heat.

Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 527 Calories; 4g Fat (7.4% calories from fat); 71g Protein; 50g Carbohydrate; 19g Dietary Fiber; 137mg Cholesterol; 215mg Sodium. Exchanges: 3 Grain(Starch); 8 1/2 Lean Meat; 1 1/2 Vegetable; 0 Fat.

Ham in Cola (OAMC 3 meals-18 servings)

Recipe By :Cherylann
Serving Size : 18
Categories : OAMC

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
3 small hams -- reserve bones for soups
2 1/4 cups brown sugar
3 teaspoons dry mustard
3 teaspoons horseradish
3/4 cup cola -- NOT diet

Put a ham in each of 3 labelled gallon ziploc bags.

In a large bowl, used just a touch of the cola to make a paste out of the brown sugar, mustard and horseradish.

Pour the rest of the cola over the hams in the bags. Rub the paste over the cut side of the ham. Freeze.

To prepare: Thaw in refrigerator 2 nights before needed. You can cook the ham paste side up or down. I usually do it down so the cut portion of the meat is in the paste and juices. Cook on low 8-10 hours.

Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 74 Calories; trace Fat (0.9% calories from fat); trace Protein; 19g Carbohydrate; trace Dietary Fiber; 0mg Cholesterol; 8mg Sodium. Exchanges: 0 Grain(Starch); 0 Lean Meat; 0 Fat; 1 Other Carbohydrates.

NOTES : I ran out of regular coke the last time I made this and substitued cherry coke and it was really good.

Crockpot Beef Stroganoff (OAMC 3 meals-18 servings)

Recipe By : Cherylann
Serving Size : 18
Categories : OAMC

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
2 1/4 pounds sirloin steak -- cut into 1" slices
2 1/4 envelopes beefy onion soup mix
2 cans cream of celery soup
3 cans cream of mushroom soup
1 1/8 cups sour cream
2 1/2 bags egg noodles -- cooked as directed

Divide steak into 3 labelled gallon ziploc bags.

In a large bowl mix remaining ingredients, except egg noodles. Divide into bags, pouring over steak.

Make sure you get all the air out of the bags, lay flat and freeze.

To prepare: Thaw in refrigerator overnight. Next morning, spray crockpot with nonstick spray, put meal in crockpot, cook 6-8 hours over low heat, stirring occasionally.

Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 197 Calories; 13g Fat (60.8% calories from fat); 12g Protein; 7g Carbohydrate; trace Dietary Fiber; 49mg Cholesterol; 315mg Sodium. Exchanges: 1/2 Grain(Starch); 1 1/2 Lean Meat; 0 Vegetable; 0 Non-Fat Milk; 1 1/2 Fat.

Crockpot Swiss Chicken (OAMC 3 meals-18 serv.)

Recipe By :Cherylann
Serving Size : 18
Categories : OAMC

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
18 boneless skinless chicken breasts
4 packages stuffing mix, with seasoning packet
4 cans cream of mushroom soup
1 1/8 pounds Swiss cheese slices
2 1/4 cups chicken broth -- or a little bit of water
2 1/4 cups grated Parmesan cheese

Divide chicken into 3 labelled gallon ziploc bags. Cover with cheese (you can also use provolone, or first cover with spinach, then cheese).

In a bowl, combine the soup, stuffing mix, and broth. Spoon mixture over chicken in bags. Sprinkle with parmesan cheese. Make sure you get all the air out of the bags, lay flat and freeze.

To prepare: Thaw in refrigerator overnight. Next morning, put in buttered crockpot, cook on high for 4 hours. Chicken will be well done, but moist.

Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 445 Calories; 16g Fat (33.4% calories from fat); 68g Protein; 3g Carbohydrate; trace Dietary Fiber; 171mg Cholesterol; 738mg Sodium. Exchanges: 0 Grain(Starch); 9 1/2 Lean Meat; 1 1/2 Fat.

Pork Chops with Mushrooms (OAMC 3 meals-18 servings)

Recipe By :Cherylann
Serving Size : 18
Categories : OAMC

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
18 pork chops
6 cans cream of mushroom soup
24 small red potatoes -- quartered
3 cups baby carrots
6 stalks celery -- diced

Divide pork chops between 3 labelled gallon bags. Pour 2 cans of soup over top of pork in each bag.

Make sure you get all the air out of the bags, lay flat and freeze.

To prepare: Thaw in refrigerator overnight. Next morning, put in crockpot, add potatoes, carrots & celery. Cook 6-8 hours over low heat.

Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 371 Calories; 18g Fat (44.2% calories from fat); 26g Protein; 25g Carbohydrate; 3g Dietary Fiber; 75mg Cholesterol; 434mg Sodium. Exchanges: 1 1/2 Grain(Starch); 3 1/2 Lean Meat; 1/2 Vegetable; 1 1/2 Fat.

Serving Ideas : Great with rice or mashed potatoes.

Crockpot Meatloaf (OAMC 3 meals-18 servings)

Recipe By :Cherylann
Serving Size : 18
Categories : OAMC

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
6 pounds ground beef
6 eggs -- beaten with a fork
18 tablespoons ketchup -- or chili sauce or salsa; reserve half for topping
9 tablespoons onion soup mix
9 tablespoons beef/steak seasoning

Mix it all ingredients together and mush into the bottom of 3 labelled gallon ziplocs. Spread an additional 2 or 3 Tablespoons of ketchup (or Chili sauce or salsa) over the top. Make sure you get all the air out of the bags, lay flat and freeze.

Thaw in refrigerator overnight. Next morning, put in crockpot, cook 6-8 hours over low heat or 3-4 hours on high.

Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 531 Calories; 42g Fat (72.3% calories from fat); 28g Protein; 8g Carbohydrate; 1g Dietary Fiber; 200mg Cholesterol; 966mg Sodium. Exchanges: 1/2 Grain(Starch); 4 Lean Meat; 6 1/2 Fat; 1/2 Other Carbohydrates.

NOTES : Variation: Put half the meatloaf mixture into the bottom of the crockpot. Spread with 1 - 2 cups shredded cheese. Mush the rest of the meatloaf on the top.

Chicken Stroganoff (OAMC 3 meals-18 serv.)

Recipe By :Cherylann
Serving Size : 18
Categories : OAMC

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
12 boneless skinless chicken breasts -- frozen (don't worry about thawing)
3 pounds sour cream
24 ounces mushroom pieces
3 cans cream of mushroom soup

Divide chicken into 3 labelled gallon ziploc bags. Mix remaining ingredients, pour over chicken in bags.

Make sure you get all the air out of the bags, lay flat and freeze.

To prepare: Thaw in refrigerator overnight. Next morning, put in crockpot, cook 8 hours over low heat.

Serve with wide egg noodles.

Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 366 Calories; 19g Fat (48.5% calories from fat); 40g Protein; 7g Carbohydrate; 1g Dietary Fiber; 125mg Cholesterol; 316mg Sodium. Exchanges: 0 Grain(Starch); 5 Lean Meat; 1/2 Vegetable; 0 Non-Fat Milk; 3 1/2 Fat.

Cheesy Sausage Bake (OAMC 3 meals; 6 servings each)

Recipe By : Cherylann
Serving Size : 18
Categories : OAMC

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
24 ounces refrigerated crescent rolls
3 pounds sage pork sausage -- browned and drained
3 cups cheddar cheese -- shredded
3 cups mozzarella cheese -- shredded
15 eggs
2 1/4 cups milk
salt and pepper -- to taste

Preheat oven to 350°.

Spread crescents in the bottom of 4 greased 13X9" baking pans; press together. Top with sausage. Sprinkle with cheeses; set aside.

Beat eggs, milk, salt and pepper together; pour over cheeses.

Bake for 25 minutes.

Cool; divide between 4 gallon freezer bags; freeze.

To serve: Preheat oven to 350°. Heat for 30 minutes or until heated through.

Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 217 Calories; 16g Fat (67.4% calories from fat); 15g Protein; 2g Carbohydrate; 0g Dietary Fiber; 218mg Cholesterol; 269mg Sodium. Exchanges: 2 Lean Meat; 0 Non-Fat Milk; 2 Fat.

Farmhouse Pot Roast (OAMC 3 meals-18 servings)

Recipe By :Cherylann
Serving Size : 18
Categories : OAMC

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
3 roasts, trimmed -- about 5 lbs. each
24 large red potatoes -- cut into chunks
1 1/2 pounds baby carrots
9 stalks celery -- chopped
3 cans mushroom pieces
4 large cans cream of mushroom soup
3 cans beef broth
6 cups water

Put one roast each in a labelled gallon ziploc. Add mushrooms, soup, broth and water. Zip tightly and freeze.

To prepare: Thaw in refrigerator two nights before needed. When thawed, put in crockpot, add potatoes, carrots and celery. Cook 6-8 hours over low heat, until beef is done and falling apart.

Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 137 Calories; 2g Fat (15.0% calories from fat); 5g Protein; 25g Carbohydrate; 3g Dietary Fiber; 1mg Cholesterol; 482mg Sodium. Exchanges: 1 Grain(Starch); 0 Lean Meat; 1 Vegetable; 1/2 Fat.

NOTES : Can substitute 3 beef bouillon cubes and 2 cups of water for the beef broth.
Can substitute venison for beef.

Thanksgiving Casserole

Recipe By :Cherylann T. Smith
Serving Size : 8
Categories : Casseroles

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
6 medium potatoes -- peeled and cut into chunks
1 1/4 cups celery -- chopped
3/4 cup onion -- chopped
1/2 cup butter -- cubed
6 cups unseasoned stuffing cubes
1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
1/4 teaspoon sage
1 cup chicken broth
4 cups cooked turkey -- cubed
1 can cream of mushroom soup -- undiluted, or cream of chicken or celery
1 can cream of celery soup -- undiluted, or cream of chicken or mushroom
1 teaspoon garlic powder
3/4 cup sour cream -- divided
4 ounces cream cheese -- softened
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt
6 ounces shredded cheddar cheese

Grease a 13X9X2" baking dish.

Place potatoes in a Dutch oven and cover with water. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and cook for 15-20 minutes or until tender.

In a large skillet, saute celery and onion in butter until tender. Remove from heat. In a large bowl, combine stuffing cubes, poultry seasoning and sage. Stir in broth and celery mixture. Transfer to prepared dish.

In a large bowl, combine turkey, soups, garlic powder and 1/4 cup sour cream; spoon over stuffing mixture.

Preheat oven to 350°.

Drain potatoes; mash in a large mixing bowl. Beat in the cream cheese, pepper, salt and remaining sour cream; spread over turkey mixture. Sprinkle with cheese.

Bake for 35 minutes or until heated through.

Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 517 Calories; 34g Fat (58.4% calories from fat); 31g Protein; 23g Carbohydrate; 2g Dietary Fiber; 134mg Cholesterol; 784mg Sodium. Exchanges: 1 Grain(Starch); 4 Lean Meat; 1/2 Vegetable; 0 Non-Fat Milk; 5 1/2 Fat.

NOTES : **Can use 2 cans cream of mushroom, 2 cans cream of celery, 2 cans cream of chicken; or 1 can of two of them.

**Can substitute 1 1/2 cups leftover mashed potatoes for the 6 potatoes.

Grocery List:
Produce:
o Celery

Condiments/Mixes/Packets:
o 2¼ c. Italian dressing
o Horseradish
o ketchup

Cans/Soups/Pasta/Rice/Boxes:
o 1 can cream of chicken soup
o 4 cans cream of celery soup
o 13 large cans cream of mushroom soup
o 1½ c. Minute rice
o 8 lasagna noodles (no boil)
o 28 oz. spaghetti sauce
o 5.5 lg. cans mushroom pieces
o 1 ½ c. sun dried tomatoes in oil
o 6 cans navy beans
o 6 env. Beefy onion soup mix
o 3 bags egg noodles
o 4 pkgs. Stuffing mix (with seasoning packet)
o 2¼ c. chicken broth
o 3 cans beef broth
o 6 cups unseasoned stuffing cubes
o 1 cup chicken broth

Baking/Spices:
o Italian seasoning
o 2¼ c. brown sugar
o Dry mustard
o Beef seasoning
o Salt
o Pepper
o Poultry seasoning
o Sage
o Garlic powder

Dairy:
o 15 oz. ricotta or cottage cheese
o 5 c. shredded mozzarella cheese
o 63 oz. sour cream
o 10 oz. swiss cheese slices
o 2¼ c. grated Parmesan cheese
o 21 eggs
o 24 oz. crescent rolls
o 5 c. shredded cheddar
o Milk (2 ¼)
o ½ cup salted butter
o 4 oz. cream cheese

Sodas/water:
o 1 can cola (or cherry cola)

Meat:
o 54 boneless skinless chicken breasts
o 7 lbs. ground beef or turkey
o 3 small hams (6 serv. Each)
o 2¼ lbs. sirloin steak
o 18 bonless pork chops
o 3 lbs. sage sausage
o 3 roasts

PRODUCE (buy as needed):
Crockpot Tuscan Rosemary Chicken and White Beans (buy by: 11/10)
o 2 c. baby carrots
o 4 stalks celery
o 2 T. fresh rosemary
Pork Chops with Mushrooms (buy by: 11/15)
o 8 small red potatoes
o 1 c. baby carrots
o 2 stalks celery
Farmhouse Pot Roast (buy by: 11/18)
o 8 lg. red potatoes
o ½ lb. baby carrots
o 3 stalks celery
Crockpot Tuscan Rosemary Chicken and White Beans (buy by: 11/19)
o 2 c. baby carrots
o 4 stalks celery
o 2 T. fresh rosemary
Pork Chops with Mushrooms (buy by: 11/24)
o 8 small red potatoes
o 1 c. baby carrots
o 2 stalks celery
Thanksgiving Casserole (buy by: 11/26)
o 3 stalks celery
o 1 onion
Farmhouse Pot Roast (buy by: 11/30)
o 8 lg. red potatoes
o ½ lb. baby carrots
o 3 stalks celery
Crockpot Tuscan Rosemary Chicken and White Beans (buy by: 12/1)
o 2 c. baby carrots
o 4 stalks celery
o 2 T. fresh rosemary
Pork Chops with Mushrooms (buy by: 12/6)
o 8 small red potatoes
o 1 c. baby carrots
o 2 stalks celery
Farmhouse Pot Roast (buy by: 12/9)
o 8 lg. red potatoes
o ½ lb. baby carrots
o 3 stalks celery

LEFTOVERS:
Thanksgiving Casserole (save from Thanksgiving dinner)
o 1 ½ cups leftover mashed potatoes
4 cups cooked turkey -- cubed

Giveaway

2008-10-30T16:31:00.000-07:00

Please visit LaneyPottery.com to see the Pottery Apple Bakers for yourself.">Laney Pottery is giving away some awesome pottery apple bakers. I would LOVE to win them. Go check them out. I love stuff like this. They have just found a new customer :o)

Come On Over contest (gooseberry patch)

2008-10-29T12:19:00.000-07:00

Lamp Unto My Feet is having a giveaway. She is giving away a gooseberry patch book Come on Over. I just love GBP books. I am in 4 of them: Ready, Set, Eat; Speedy Suppers; Harvest Kitchen & Christmas Kitchen.

She offers 3 opportunities to win her book.

Chocolate Christmas Truffles

2008-10-18T14:38:00.001-07:00

I give these decadent candies as gifts to my friends. It's inexpensive, but oh so good. I give them in tins with a mixture of other goodies. I usually do 3 per tin, so this will make 12 gifts, when combined with other food gifts :o)

Chocolate Christmas Truffles

Recipe By :Cherylann
Serving Size : 36
Categories : Candy

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
6 ounces semisweet chocolate
4 ounces cream cheese
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
1 teaspoon extract -- flavor of your choice
baking cocoa, powdered sugar, coconut, chocolate shavings, nuts, sprinkles, etc -- for garnish

Melt chocolate in microwave on high for 60 seconds. Stir and continue cooking on high for another 30 seconds or until completely melted.

Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and continue beating until well-blended. Stir in chocolate, vanilla and extracts.

Refrigerate for 2 hours or until firm. Shape into 1" balls. Roll in cocoa, sugar, nuts, etc. or dip in melted chocolate. Store in refrigerator.

Yield:
"3 dozen"
Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 53 Calories; 3g Fat (39.9% calories from fat); trace Protein; 8g Carbohydrate; 0g Dietary Fiber; 3mg Cholesterol; 10mg Sodium. Exchanges: 0 Lean Meat; 1/2 Fat; 1/2 Other Carbohydrates.

Christmas Brunch Casserole

2008-10-18T14:36:00.000-07:00

Here's something else I take to Christmas brunch. We also have sausage, ham, bacon, eggs, cheese, sausage gravy, biscuits, red eye gravy, orange juice & chocolate milk.

Christmas Brunch Casserole

Recipe By :Cherylann
Serving Size : 12
Categories : Casseroles

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
1 can fluffy biscuits -- baked
1 pound sausage -- cooked and drained
1 sprig fresh rosemary -- chopped
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon basil
1 teaspoon oregano
1 teaspoon thyme
salt and pepper -- to taste
8 eggs
2 cups milk
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Preheat oven to 350°. Crumble biscuits in bite-size pieces; place in casserole dish. Add sausage. Mix spices, eggs and milk, then pour over bread and sausage. Top with cheese. Bake for 30 minutes.

Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 309 Calories; 26g Fat (76.8% calories from fat); 15g Protein; 3g Carbohydrate; trace Dietary Fiber; 192mg Cholesterol; 436mg Sodium. Exchanges: 0 Grain(Starch); 2 Lean Meat; 0 Non-Fat Milk; 4 Fat.

Serving Ideas : Sometimes I add canned mushrooms and/or diced tomatoes for variety.

Christmas Morning Orange Rolls

2008-10-18T14:34:00.000-07:00

I made these for breakfast, thought I'd share one of our favorite breakfasts :o)

Christmas Morning Orange Rolls

Recipe By :Cherylann
Serving Size : 30
Categories : Biscuits & Rolls

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
Rolls:
1 package yeast
1/4 cup water -- 110-112°
1 cup warm milk -- 110-112°
1/4 cup shortening
1/4 cup sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 egg -- lightly beaten
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour -- 3 1/2-3/4 cups
Filling:
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter -- softened
2 Tablespoons grated orange rind
Glaze:
1 cup powdered sugar
4 teaspoons unsalted butter -- softened
4 teaspoons milk -- 4-5 teaspoons
1/2 teaspoon orange extract

In small bowl, dissolve yeast in water.

In lg bowl, mix milk, shortning, sugar, salt, and egg. Add yeast mix; blend well. Stir in enough flour to make a soft dough.

Kneed on floured board for about 7 minutes. Put in greased bowl, turn to grease top. Cover and let rise until doubled, about 1 hour.

Punch dough down; divide in half. Roll each into a 15x10 rectangle.

Mix filling ingredients until smooth. Spread half on each rectangle. Roll up, starting with the long end.

Cut each into 15 rolls. Put in 2 greased 11x7 baking pans. Cover and let rise until doubled, about 45 minutes.

Preheat oven to 375*.

Bake for 20-25 minutes, until lightly browned.

Mix glaze ingredients, spread over warm rolls.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 157 Calories; 6g Fat (33.6% calories from fat); 2g Protein; 24g Carbohydrate; trace Dietary Fiber; 18mg Cholesterol; 79mg Sodium. Exchanges: 1/2 Grain(Starch); 0 Lean Meat; 0 Fruit; 0 Non-Fat Milk; 1 Fat; 1 Other Carbohydrates.

NOTES : The better quality your ingredients, the better qualty quality your rolls will be. I serve these with Christmas brunch. They are a big hit. Since we have a large family (24), I take the whole recipe.

Gift Ideas:

2008-10-18T14:32:00.000-07:00

Scented tarts and tart burners (also soaps, etc). She has really good prices and if you enter my name: Cherylann in the code, you will get 10% off. She also offers very reasonable shipping $3.60 on every order.

http://www.missystemptingtarts.com/store/

Teacher Gifts

2008-10-18T14:11:00.000-07:00

Gift baskets again. Will have apple tarts (the scented kind that you melt in a burner to make your house smell good, not the food kind, lol), a pot holder, and this bread.

Apple Bread-in-a-Jar

Recipe By : Cherylann
Serving Size : 32
Categories : Gifts-in-a-Jar

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
2 2/3 cups sugar
4 eggs
2 cups shredded apples
2/3 cup water
3 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground cloves
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
2/3 cup nuts

This recipe is easy to do, but the instructions must be followed exactly. The nicest thing about giving Bread-In-A-Jar is that those who receive it can keep it until they get over the holiday food blahs.

Preheat oven to 325°. Bake in pint size wide mouth canning jar, seal immediately upon removing from the oven. It will keep on the shelf for up to one year. Take jars out the oven one at a time. When jars have cooled enough to handle them, tighten the tops. As jars cool, they will seal.

Cream shortening and sugar. Beat in eggs, apples and water.

Sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt and spices. Add to pumpkin mixture into greased wide mouth pint jars, filling half full.

Bake at 325 degrees for 45 minutes. When done, remove one jar at a time, wipe sealing edge with paper towel or cloth and screw cap on tightly. The heat will vacuum seal the jar and the bread will keep up to one year.

Yield:
"8 pints"

Gift Baskets for Women family/friends

2008-10-18T14:09:00.001-07:00

I am making baskets this year. I am going to have hot chocolate mix and cookie mix, along with a mug full of assorted Hershey's kisses, a pot holder and a PC measure all. I'm giving these to the women in my family and my friends. I'm not going overboard this year (budget wise), b/c my goals are 1. new house (was hoping by end of year, maybe now another year?) and 2. family vacation.

Candy Cane Hot Chocolate Mix

Recipe By : Cherylann
Serving Size : 16
Categories : Gifts-in-a-Jar

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1 cup baking cocoa
2 Tablespoons baking cocoa
1 1/2 cups nondairy creamer, fat-free
20 peppermints -- broken up
miniature marshmallows

In a one-quart wide-mouth jar, layer powdered sugar, then cocoa, packing each layer as tightly as possible.

Wipe the inside of the jar with a paper towel to remove any excess cocoa before adding the next layer.

Add nondairy creamer to jar, packing tightly.

Add peppermint pieces. Fill any remaining space in top of jar with a layer of miniature marshmallows; secure lid.

Directions: Empty jar into a large mixing bowl; blend well. Spoon mixture back into jar. To serve, add 3/4 cup boiling water to 1/4 cup cocoa mixture; stir to blend.

Crispy Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie Mix

Recipe By : Cherylann
Serving Size : 48
Categories : Gifts-in-a-Jar

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1 cup quick cooking oats
1 cup Rice Krispies®
1/2 cup chocolate chips
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking powder

In a wide mouth quart jar, layer sugar, brown sugar, cooking oats, cereal and chocolate; pressing firmly after each addition.

Combine flour, salt and baking powder together, mixing well. Add to top of jar.

Attach directions:
1 jar Crispy Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie Mix
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 egg, beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Preheat oven to 350°.
Mix jar of ingredients with butter, egg and vanilla; blend well.
Shape into 1" balls. Place 2" apart on ungreased cookie sheets.
Bake for 10 minutes.

Yield:
"4 dozen"

OOPS!!!

2008-10-06T23:46:00.000-07:00

Forgot to give you my recipe for butter cookies.

We'll be using fall/halloween cookie cutters, and I may buy some already made frosting for the kids to decorate them (I already have fall sprinkles).

I don't want to make any more mess than we already will by making frosting, too, lol.

Butter Cookies

Recipe By :Cherylann
Serving Size : 24
Categories : Cookies

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
1 cup unsalted butter
2/3 cup sugar
3 egg yolks
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

Preheat oven to 400°.

Combine butter, sugar, egg yolks and vanilla together; add flour, mixing by hand.

Spoon mixture into a cookie press; press onto an ungreased baking sheet using the desired discs.

Bake for 7-10 minutes.

Yields: 4 dozen

Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 145 Calories; 8g Fat (52.2% calories from fat); 2g Protein; 16g Carbohydrate; trace Dietary Fiber; 47mg Cholesterol; 2mg Sodium. Exchanges: 1/2 Grain(Starch); 0 Lean Meat; 1 1/2 Fat; 1/2 Other Carbohydrates.

NOTES : Add green dye, use the tree disc and put a tiny red cinnamon candy at top of the tree for Christmas trees.

For reindeer: use deer disc & use red cinnamon candy for nose.

Christmas Baking!!!

2008-10-06T23:34:00.000-07:00

This week starts my cookie baking :o) I will be making fall & halloween cookies for the kids to decorate and eat, so they leave my Christmas cookies alone :o)

So, it's decorated butter cookies for them, and Moravian Sugar Cookies for the freezer :o) Now, I just have to hide them well enough so that dh doesn't find them :o)

Guess this means I need to do 3 things........1. get rid of this migraine, 2. make sure I have plenty of freezer space, 3. (ugh) clean of the DR table.

Moravian Sugar Cookies

Recipe By :Cherylann
Serving Size : 60
Categories : Cookies

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
1/2 cup unsalted butter -- softened
1/2 cup shortening
1 cup sugar
1 cup packed brown sugar
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
2 Tablespoons buttermilk
4 cups all-purpose flour

Cream butter and shortening with sugars. Add eggs, one at a time, vanilla and salt; mix well.

In a small cup, add baking soda to the buttermilk. Let sit one minute, then add to the sugar mixture. Add flour; mix well. Divide dough in half and chill up to 2 hours.

On a floured surface, roll out dough to 1/8" thickness and use 2" floured cookie cutters to cut dough.

Preheat oven to 375°.

Bake 5-7 minutes or until firm. DO NOT overbake!

Yields: 5 dozen

Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 89 Calories; 3g Fat (35.3% calories from fat); 1g Protein; 13g Carbohydrate; trace Dietary Fiber; 11mg Cholesterol; 20mg Sodium. Exchanges: 1/2 Grain(Starch); 0 Lean Meat; 0 Non-Fat Milk; 1/2 Fat; 1/2 Other Carbohydrates.

NOTES : Easily doubled or tripled. They freeze well.

My OAMC Breakfasts made today

2008-07-23T10:12:00.001-07:00

Amish Crunch Pancakes & Homemade Pecan Syrup

Amish Crunch Pancakes (OAMC 4 bf's; 24 serv)

Recipe By :Cherylann
Serving Size : 24
Categories : OAMC Pancakes

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
8 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/3 cups whole wheat flour
2 cups quick cooking oats
1 1/3 cups quick cooking oats
8 tablespoons sugar
8 teaspoons baking powder
4 teaspoons baking soda
4 teaspoons salt
8 teaspoons cinnamon -- divided
9 cups buttermilk
8 eggs -- beaten
8 tablespoons oil
4 cups blueberries
1 cup chopped almonds
1 cup packed brown sugar

Combine flours, 1/3 cup oats, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt and 1 tsp. cinnamon in a mixing bowl.

In a separate bowl, combine buttermilk, eggs and oil. Stir into dry ingredients until blended. Fold in blueberries.

For topping, mix together 1/2 cup oats and one tsp. cinnamon. Blend in almonds and brown sugar.

Lightly grease griddle.

Sprinkle 1 tsp. topping for each pancake onto hot griddle. Pour 1/4 cup batter over topping. Immediately sprinkle with another teaspoonful of topping.

Turn when bubbles form on top of pancakes. Cook until second side is golden brown.

Yields: 76 pancakes

Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 422 Calories; 12g Fat (24.3% calories from fat); 14g Protein; 67g Carbohydrate; 5g Dietary Fiber; 74mg Cholesterol; 855mg Sodium. Exchanges: 3 Grain(Starch); 1/2 Lean Meat; 0 Fruit; 1/2 Non-Fat Milk; 2 Fat; 1 Other Carbohydrates.

Serving Ideas : Can substitute chopped strawberries (or other berries) or peeled & chopped peaches, apples or bananas for the blueberries.

NOTES : Flash Freeze, then put in labeled freezer bags. To serve: put in oven at 300° until warmed through.

Homemade Pecan Syrup

Recipe By :Cherylann
Serving Size : 36
Categories : Syrups

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
2 cups water
2 cups corn syrup
1 cup sugar
3 Tablespoons butter
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 teaspoons maple extract
1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
1 cup honey
1 teaspoon cinnamon

Combine water, corn syrup, sugar, butter and salt in a heavy saucepan. Cook over medium heat until mixture reaches a full boil, stirring occasionally.

Continue to boil syrup for 7 minutes; remove from heat and allow to cool for 15 minutes.

Stir in maple flavoring; allow to cool to warm.

Combine syrup, pecans, honey and cinnamon.

Pour mixture into an airtight container.

Serve over waffles or pancakes.

Yields: 6 cups
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 143 Calories; 4g Fat (25.3% calories from fat); trace Protein; 28g Carbohydrate; trace Dietary Fiber; 3mg Cholesterol; 62mg Sodium. Exchanges: 0 Grain(Starch); 0 Lean Meat; 1 Fat; 2 Other Carbohydrates.

Simple Woman's Daybook 7/21 (7/23)

2008-07-23T05:06:00.000-07:00

These are supposed to be done Monday, but I forgot to do it on Monday.

Outside My Window...the birds are chirping.

I am thinking...that I need to get up and get moving.

I am thankful for...my children, each and every day, no matter if they are on a mission to drive me crazy:)

From the kitchen...I know my dishes are done and my counter is clutter-free and ready for me to get to work in there. Today I plan to OAMC some breakfasts.

I am wearing...a peach t-shirt and gray capris.

I am creating...a plan for oamc'ing breakfasts for those crazy back-to-school mornings.

I am going...to start running through our am & pm routines starting next monday, so that they won't be such a shock when school starts (4 weeks from Monday).

I am hoping...for my kids to have a wonderful school year and learn lots of new things.

I am hearing...my kids snore:) so much more peaceful than them arguing:)

Around the house...I am thinking things don't look too bad, if I can just keep up with my dailies:)

One of my favorite things...is getting up early before everyone else, to have a little peace in my day, before it gets crazy.

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week: get through my zone 4, and catch up on some other projects.

Here is picture thought I am sharing...

This is Rory at Brea's water day at school in May. She gets so excited when she goes potty without help. So, she comes running out of the classroom and says (in a big voice) I went potty ALL BY MYSELF!!! And jumps up and down. This is a pic I captured. I think she looks like my mini little sumo wrestler, LOL.
~**~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~~**~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

This is a meme from the simple woman's daybook.

OAMC Breakfasts

2008-07-23T05:01:00.000-07:00

Cinnamon French Toast Sticks (OAMC 8 bf's; 48 serv)

Recipe By :Cherylann
Serving Size : 48
Categories : French Toast OAMC

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
48 slices French bread -- 1" slices, trimmed
16 large eggs -- lightly beaten
1 cup milk
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg -- ground
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon -- ground
2 tablespoons sugar

Slice bread into 4" long pieces 1/2" thick.

Mix eggs with milk.

Blend spices with sugar.

Combine spice mixture with egg mixture.

Dip bread pieces into egg mixture then grill at 350 - 375° for 2-3 minutes, turning so that toast is browned on all sides.

Flash Freeze, then put in labeled freezer bags. To serve: put in oven at 300° until warmed through or stick in bagel toaster.

NOTES : Simple and delicious. Kids love breakfast finger food. Great with syrup or apple sauce.

American Style Flapjacks (OAMC 4 bf's; 24 serv)

Recipe By :Cherylann
Serving Size : 24
Categories : Pancakes

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
12 cups flour
12 egg
12 tablespoons butter or margarine -- melted
8 cups milk
18 teaspoons baking powder
36 tablespoons sugar
3 teaspoons salt

Sift the dry ingredients together, add the egg and mix it in until it is almost absorbed. Add the milk and mix until semi-smooth. Mix in the melted butter or margarine.

It should make about 5 pancakes 7 inches in diameter.

Use less sugar if you like to use a lot of syrup.

Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 440 Calories; 12g Fat (23.7% calories from fat); 12g Protein; 71g Carbohydrate; 2g Dietary Fiber; 133mg Cholesterol; 767mg Sodium. Exchanges: 3 Grain(Starch); 1/2 Lean Meat; 1/2 Non-Fat Milk; 2 Fat; 1 1/2 Other Carbohydrates.

NOTES : Flash Freeze, then put in labeled freezer bags. To serve: put in oven at 300° until warmed through or stick in toaster.

Apple Almond Pancakes (OAMC 4 bf's; 24 serv)

Recipe By :Cherylann
Serving Size : 24
Categories : OAMC Pancakes

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
1 1/2 cups whole-wheat flour
1 1/2 cups unbleached flour
3 tablespoons brown sugar
4 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
3/4 teaspoon salt
6 eggs -- separated
12 tablespoons oil
1 1/2 cups buttermilk
1 1/2 cups apple juice
3/4 cup chopped almonds

Combine flour, sugar, baking powder and salt in a mixing bowl.

Beat egg yolks with oil, buttermilk and apple juice. Stir into flour mixture with nuts until all ingredients are moistened (do not over stir).

Beat egg whites until stiff and fold into batter. Spoon onto a hot, greased griddle and turn once when bubbles appear. Makes 8 to 10 pancakes.

Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 174 Calories; 11g Fat (54.0% calories from fat); 5g Protein; 16g Carbohydrate; 1g Dietary Fiber; 54mg Cholesterol; 193mg Sodium. Exchanges: 1 Grain(Starch); 1/2 Lean Meat; 0 Fruit; 0 Non-Fat Milk; 2 Fat; 0 Other Carbohydrates.

NOTES : Flash Freeze, then put in labeled freezer bags. To serve: put in oven at 300° until warmed through or stick in toaster.

Banana Pancakes (OAMC 4 bf's; 24 serv)

Recipe By : Cherylann
Serving Size : 24
Categories : Pancakes

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
1 1/3 cups unbleached flour
1 cup whole-wheat flour
4 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 2/3 cups milk
4 tablespoons oil
2 medium ripe banana -- finely chopped

Combine flours, baking powder and salt in a mixing bowl. Mix together milk and oil and stir into dry mixture just enough to moisten all ingredients. Fold in banana. Spoon onto a hot, well greased griddle. Turn once.

Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 76 Calories; 3g Fat (37.6% calories from fat); 2g Protein; 10g Carbohydrate; 1g Dietary Fiber; 4mg Cholesterol; 139mg Sodium. Exchanges: 1/2 Grain(Starch); 0 Non-Fat Milk; 1/2 Fat; 0 Other Carbohydrates.

NOTES : Flash Freeze, then put in labeled freezer bags. To serve: put in oven at 300° until warmed through or stick in toaster.

Blueberry Pancakes (OAMC 4 bf's; 24 serv)

Recipe By :Cherylann
Serving Size : 24
Categories : OAMC Pancakes

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
5 cups milk
10 eggs
10 cups biscuit mix
5 cups fresh blueberries -- or frozen (thawed and drained)

Stir milk and eggs until blended.

Stir into biscuit mix. Do not overstir. Gently stir blueberries into batter.

Pour by slightly less than 1/4 cupfuls onto hot greased griddle.

Cook until edges are dry.

Turn; cook until golden.

Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 293 Calories; 12g Fat (35.7% calories from fat); 8g Protein; 38g Carbohydrate; 2g Dietary Fiber; 96mg Cholesterol; 694mg Sodium. Exchanges: 2 Grain(Starch); 1/2 Lean Meat; 1/2 Fruit; 0 Non-Fat Milk; 2 Fat.

NOTES : For thinner pancakes, stir in additional milk.

Flash Freeze, then put in labeled freezer bags. To serve: put in oven at 300° until warmed through or stick in toaster.

Sausage Breakfast Pizza (OAMC 4 pizzas)

Recipe By :Cherylann
Serving Size : 32
Categories : Pizza

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
64 ounces sage sausage
34 ounces refrigerated crescent rolls
4 cups frozen hashbrown potato cubes -- thawed
16 ounces shredded sharp cheddar cheese -- 1 cup
12 eggs -- lightly beaten
12 tablespoons milk
2 teaspoons salt
4 teaspoons black pepper
8 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

Preheat oven to 375°.

In large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat, stirring frequently until thoroughly cooked and no longer pink.

Separate crescent rolls into 8 triangles. Place in ungreased 12" rimmed pizza pan with points toward center. Press together; sealing perforations and forming circle 1" larger in diameter than bottom of pan. Turn edges under to make a slight rim.

Sprinkle cooked sausage evenly over crust. Top with potatoes; sprinkle with cheddar.

Combine eggs, milk, salt and pepper in small bowl; stir well. Pour evenly over pizza.

Sprinkle with Parmesan.

Bake 20 minutes or until eggs are set and crust is golden brown.

Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 95 Calories; 7g Fat (68.4% calories from fat); 7g Protein; 1g Carbohydrate; trace Dietary Fiber; 96mg Cholesterol; 274mg Sodium. Exchanges: 0 Grain(Starch); 1 Lean Meat; 0 Non-Fat Milk; 1 Fat.

NOTES : Wrap well in waxed paper, cover in saran wrap, then wrap in aluminum foil, label and freeze. To reheat: Bake at 350° until heated through 15-20 mins.

OAMC Meals

2008-07-23T04:38:00.000-07:00

"Brown and Bag" Seasoned Ground Beef

Recipe By :Cherylann
Serving Size : 12
Categories : OAMC

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
1 Tablespoon oil
2 onions -- chopped
2 green bell peppers -- chopped
1 Tablespoon garlic -- pressed
3 pounds ground beef
1 Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Heat oil in extra deep, 12" nonstick skillet. (or 4 1/2 quart Dutch oven).

Add chopped onions, peppers and garlic and raise heat to high. Crumble beef into skillet and cook, stirring constantly, until no longer pink (~7 minutes).

Drain grease, then mix in Worcestershire sauce.

Cool slightly and divide into 3 (~ 3 1/2 C) portions. Freeze in freezer containers until ready to use.

Yields: 3 1/2 cups each

NOTE: I use this for 2 meals calling for ground beef, browned and drained (I double it for one oamc recipe—24 servings).

"Homemade" Meatloaf (48 servings; 6 OAMC meals)

Recipe By :Cherylann
Serving Size : 48
Categories : Main Dishes

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
4 packages McCormick's meatloaf seasoning
8 eggs -- slightly beaten
1 1/2 cups ketchup
1/2 cup Worcestershire sauce
2 cans mushroom pieces -- chopped
1 onion -- chopped
1 green pepper -- finely chopped
2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
fresh rosemary, basil, oregano, Italian parsley -- to taste; chopped
8 pounds ground beef
ketchup -- for topping

Preheat oven to 375°. Place foil in two 13X9" pan and 4 loaf pans.

Mix meatloaf seasoning and eggs together. Add ketchup, Worcestershire, mushrooms, onion, green pepper, seasoning and fresh herbs. Mix well.

Add ground beef, mix well. Make 16 mini loaves of meatloaf, place in prepared 13X9" pans. Fill loaf pans with regular size meatloaves. Top with ketchup.

Place in oven. Take 13X9" pans with mini loaves out after 30 minutes. Leave loaf pans in for 30 more minutes (for a total of 1 hour).

Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 259 Calories; 21g Fat (73.6% calories from fat); 14g Protein; 3g Carbohydrate; trace Dietary Fiber; 100mg Cholesterol; 177mg Sodium. Exchanges: 0 Grain(Starch); 2 Lean Meat; 0 Vegetable; 3 Fat; 0 Other Carbohydrates.

Serving Ideas : Great with mashed potatoes or rice topped with tomatoes.

NOTES : Freeze the 2 loaves for future meals & eat the mini loaves for dinner and lunch the next day.

Or you can freeze before cooking. Thaw & bake for 30 minutes (mini loaves) 1hour meatloaves.

"Honey, I Fed the Kids" Drumsticks (OAMC 4 meals; 6 servings each)

Recipe By :Cherylann
Serving Size : 24
Categories : Main Dishes OAMC

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
24 skinless chicken drumsticks
8 cups apple juice
3 Tablespoons garlic -- pressed
1 teaspoon pepper
1 cup honey
salt -- to taste

Prop open four gallon freezer bag. Add 1/4 of each: apple juice, garlic, pepper, honey, and salt. Mix the marinade together in the bag by rubbing and squeezing the outside of the bag. Once the marinade is well blended, add 6 drumsticks to each bag. Let out excess air, and seal the freezer bag. Label the bag, and lay flat in the freezer. Freeze.

Cooking Instructions: Thaw. Remove drumsticks from marinade. Discard leftover marinade. Grill drumsticks over medium heat until completely cooked, flipping once. Will need to cook about 20 minutes per side.

Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 170 Calories; 3g Fat (13.6% calories from fat); 15g Protein; 22g Carbohydrate; trace Dietary Fiber; 56mg Cholesterol; 68mg Sodium. Exchanges: 0 Grain(Starch); 2 Lean Meat; 0 Vegetable; 1/2 Fruit; 0 Fat; 1 Other Carbohydrates.

Baked Beans Dinner (OAMC 4 meals; 6 servings each)

Recipe By :Cherylann
Serving Size : 24
Categories : Main Dishes OAMC

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
4 pounds ground beef -- browned and drained
4 sprigs fresh rosemary -- chopped
1 Tablespoon Italian seasoning
1 Tablespoon basil
1 Tablespoon thyme
1 Tablespoon oregano
salt and pepper -- to taste
1 cup Worcestershire sauce
2 cups ketchup
2 cups maple syrup -- or 1 cup brown sugar, packed
4 large cans baked beans
2 pounds bacon

Mix all ingredients, except bacon.

Divide into 4 gallon freezer bags. Put 1/2 pound of bacon each into 4 sandwich bags. Place bags of bacon in gallon bags with bean mixture. Freeze.

To serve: Thaw. Preheat oven to 350°. Heat 30 minutes or until no longer soupy.

Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 592 Calories; 39g Fat (59.1% calories from fat); 27g Protein; 34g Carbohydrate; 3g Dietary Fiber; 96mg Cholesterol; 1161mg Sodium. Exchanges: 1/2 Grain(Starch); 3 1/2 Lean Meat; 5 1/2 Fat; 1 1/2 Other Carbohydrates.
Serving Ideas : Serve with potato salad and a nice, cool summer dessert.

BBQ Meatballs (OAMC 4 meals; 6 servings)

Recipe By : Cherylann
Serving Size : 24
Categories : Main Dishes OAMC

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
Meatballs:
4 pounds ground beef
4 cups bread crumbs -- onion or plain
4 teaspoons garlic powder
4 packages onion soup mix
4 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
4 eggs
BBQ Sauce:
4 large onions -- chopped
24 ounces tomato paste
4 cloves garlic -- pressed
1/2 cup Worcestershire sauce
1/2 cup red wine vinegar
1 cup brown sugar
1 cup sweet pickle relish
1 cup beef broth
4 teaspoons salt
4 teaspoons dry mustard

In large bowl, combine all ingredients for meatballs. Shape into meatballs. Put 30 meatballs each into 4 quart bags. Mix all sauce ingredients; stir well. Divide into 4 quart bags. Put one bag of meatballs and one bag of sauce each into 4 labelled gallon bags.

To serve: Thaw. Put sauce in crockpot; stir well. Brown meatballs in skillet with 1 Tablespoon oil. Drain on paper towel. Put meatballs into crockpot. Cook on low for 5-6 hours.

Yields: 10 dozen

Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 415 Calories; 23g Fat (48.6% calories from fat); 19g Protein; 35g Carbohydrate; 3g Dietary Fiber; 100mg Cholesterol; 1576mg Sodium. Exchanges: 1 Grain(Starch); 2 Lean Meat; 1 1/2 Vegetable; 3 1/2 Fat; 1/2 Other Carbohydrates.

Serving Ideas : Serve over rice or egg noodles (made on day of meal).NOTES : 30 meatballs per meal (120 total)--Mom & Dad 7 each; kids 4 each.

Beef and Cheddar Quiche (OAMC 4 meals; 6 servings each)

Recipe By :Cherylann
Serving Size : 24
Categories : Main Dishes OAMC

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
1 dozen eggs -- beaten
4 cups whipping cream
salt and pepper -- to taste
4 sprigs fresh rosemary -- chopped
4 teaspoons Italian seasoning
4 teaspoons basil
4 teaspoons thyme
4 teaspoons oregano
4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
4 cups ground beef -- browned and drained
4 9" deep dish pie crust -- at room temperature

Preheat oven to 450°.

Mix eggs, cream, cheese, spices and beef together; spread into pie crusts.

Bake for 15 minutes; lower oven to 350° and continue baking for 15 minutes.

Cool; put one quiche into 4 gallon freezer bags. Freeze.

To reheat: Preheat oven to 350°. Heat for 30 minutes or until heated through.

Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 370 Calories; 34g Fat (81.4% calories from fat); 15g Protein; 2g Carbohydrate; trace Dietary Fiber; 212mg Cholesterol; 193mg Sodium. Exchanges: 0 Grain(Starch); 2 Lean Meat; 0 Non-Fat Milk; 5 1/2 Fat.

Christmas Cookies

2008-07-20T10:00:00.000-07:00

here are a few I will be making this year:

1. Angel Macaroons
2. Cherry Pecan Cookies
3. Chocolate Macaroons
4. Coconut Joys
5. Coffee Hermits
6. French Chocolate Balls
7. Fruitcake Cookies
8. Gingerbread Men with Powdered Sugar Frosting
9. Moravian Sugar Cookies
10. Scottish Shortbread
11. Walnut-Oatmeal Cookie Mix (cookies, plus the mix as gifts)

Angel Macaroons

Recipe By :Cherylann
Serving Size : 24
Categories : Cookies

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
1 1/3 cups flaked coconut
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/3 cup sweetened condensed milk

Preheat oven to 350°. Grease cookie sheets well.

Combine all ingredients; mix well.

Drop by teaspoonfuls 1" apart on cookie sheets.

Bake 10-12 minutes or until golden brown. Immediately remove from cookie sheet. Transfer to cooling racks.

Yields: 2 dozen

Cherry Pecan Cookies
Recipe By :Cherylann
Serving Size : 96
Categories : Cookies

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
1 cup vegetable shortening
2 cups packed brown sugar
2 eggs
1/2 cup water
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
2 cups maraschino cherries -- sliced

Mix all ingredients together. Chill at least one hour.

Preheat oven to 400°.

Drop dough by teaspoonfuls onto cookie sheet. Bake 8-10 minutes.

Yields: 8 dozen

Chocolate Macaroons

Recipe By :Cherylann
Serving Size : 24
Categories : Cookies

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
1 1/3 cups flaked coconut
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/3 cup sweetened condensed milk
1 square semisweet chocolate -- melted

Preheat oven to 350°. Grease cookie sheets well.

Combine all ingredients; mix well.

Drop by teaspoonfuls 1" apart on cookie sheets.

Bake 10-12 minutes or until golden brown. Immediately remove from cookei sheet. Transfer to cooling racks.

Yields: 2 dozen

Coconut Joys
Recipe By :Cherylann
Serving Size : 36
Categories : Cookies

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
1/2 cup unsalted butter -- melted
2 cups powdered sugar
3 cups flaked coconut
2 squares milk chocolate -- melted
finely chopped nuts -- for garnish

Add powdered sugar and coconut to melted butter; mix well.

Shape rounded teaspoonfuls into balls. Place balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, then make indentations in the center of each ball.

Fill indentations on each with melted chocolate; sprinkle nuts over chocolate, if desired.

Chill 3 hours or until firm.

Yields: 3 dozen

Coffee Hermits
Recipe By :Cherylann
Serving Size : 60
Categories : Cookies

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
1/2 cup shortening
1 cup packed brown sugar
1 egg
2 Tablespoons water
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons instant coffee granules
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/2 cup raisins
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1/2 cup chocolate chips

Preheat oven to 350°. Lightly grease baking sheets.

Combine shortening and brown sugar; blend in egg. Add water; set aside.

Combine flour, coffee granules, baking soda, cinnamon, salt and nutmeg; mix into sugar mixture.

Fold in remaining ingredients; drop rounded teaspoonfuls of dough about 2" apart on baking sheets.

Bake for 10 minutes.

Yields: 5 dozen

French Chocolate Balls

Recipe By :Cherylann
Serving Size : 48
Categories : Cookies

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
2 eggs
2/3 cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 1/3 cups almonds -- finely ground
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
4 ounces unsweetened baking chocolate -- grated
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
powdered sugar -- sifted

Beat eggs, sugar and vanilla until light and fluffy. Add remaining ingredients; beat well.

Pat dough into a ball; chill for one hour.

Shape dough into small 1" balls. Preheat oven to 475°.

Roll each ball in powdered sugar. Place on parchment paper lined baking sheet.

Bake for 3 minutes, or until they've formed a light crust.

Allow to cool 10 minutes on baking sheet; transfer to cooling racks.

Yields: 4 dozen

Fruitcake Cookies

Recipe By :Cherylann
Serving Size : 192
Categories : Cookies

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
1 cup packed brown sugar
1 cup unsalted butter -- melted
3 eggs
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon cinnamon
7 cups chopped nuts
1/2 cup milk
12 ounces candied pineapple
8 ounces candied red cherries
8 ounces candied green cherries
16 ounces dates
15 ounces golden raisins

Preheat oven to 300°. Grease baking sheets very well.

Combine brown sugar and butter. Add eggs, one at a time, stirring after each addition.

Combine dry ingredients alternately with milk into butter mixture.

Stir fruit and nuts into dough (use your hands to mix, dough will be VERY stiff).

Drop by heaping teaspoonfuls onto well-greased baking sheets. Bake for 20 minutes.

Yields: 16 dozen

Gingerbread Men with Powdered Sugar Frosting

Recipe By :Cherylann
Serving Size : 24
Categories : Cookies

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
Cookies:
1/2 cup shortening
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour -- divided
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup molasses
1 egg
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
M&Ms® plain chocolate candies
Frosting:
1 cup powdered sugar
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 Tablespoon milk

Beat shortening until softened. Add about 1 1/4 cups flour and sugar, molasses, egg, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon and cloves. Beat until thoroughly combined.

Stir in remaining flour. Divide dough in half. Cover dough and chill for 3 hours or until easily handled.

Preheat oven to 375°. Roll each half of dough to a 1/8-1/4" thickness. Cut out 4 1/2" cookies with floured gingerbread man cutter. Place on ungreased baking sheets. Bake 7-8 minutes or until edges are firm.

Frosting: Combine all ingredients, stirring until smooth. Transfer frosting to a pastry bag filled with a small round tip. Pipe frosting onto cookies. Decorate with M&M's.

Yields: 2 dozen

Moravian Sugar Cookies

Recipe By :Cherylann
Serving Size : 60
Categories : Cookies

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
1/2 cup unsalted butter -- softened
1/2 cup shortening
1 cup sugar
1 cup packed brown sugar
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
2 Tablespoons buttermilk
4 cups all-purpose flour

Cream butter and shortening with sugars. Add eggs, one at a time, vanilla and salt; mix well.

In a small cup, add baking soda to the buttermilk. Let sit one minute, then add to the sugar mixture. Add flour; mix well. Divide dough in half and chill up to 2 hours.

On a floured surface, roll out dough to 1/8" thickness and use 2" floured cookie cutters to cut dough.

Preheat oven to 375°.

Bake 5-7 minutes or until firm. DO NOT overbake!

Yields: 5 dozen

NOTES : Easily doubled or tripled. They freeze well.

Scottish Shortbread

Recipe By :Cherylann
Categories : Cookies

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
1 cup unsalted butter -- softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

Beat together butter, sugar and vanilla until well blended.

Add flour, 1 cup at a time to butter mixture.

Preheat oven to 325°.

On a floured surface, roll out dough to 1/4-1/2" thick.

With a sharp knife, cut dough into 2" squares (or cut into rounds with floured cookie cutter).

Place on ungreased baking sheet; prick top of cookies with fork. Bake 25-30 minutes until bottoms are golden brown and tops are light in color.

Cool on wire racks.

Store in airtight containers.

Walnut-Oatmeal Cookie Mix

Recipe By :Cherylann
Serving Size : 36
Categories : Cookies

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
2 1/4 cups quick cooking oats -- uncooked
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup chopped walnuts
3/4 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup chocolate chips
1 1/4 teaspoons cinnamon
3/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

4" diameter X 7 1/8" High empty oatmeal box with lid

Combine all ingredients. Place in decorated oatmeal box. Attach instructions.

Instructions:
-Place mix in a large bowl. Preheat oven to 350°.
-Stir in 1 cup softened, unsalted butter, one egg and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
-Drop by teaspoonfuls onto ungreased baking sheets.
-Bake for 10 minutes; cool.

Yields: 3 dozen

Product Review

2008-07-20T05:37:00.000-07:00

Old Spice Red Zone Body Wash (blue soap) is more like a "paste" than a gel. You have to have a pouf to make it foam up, and if you don't get ALL the soap off, your skin will be blue. Even with it being on sale ($3) and having a $1 coupon, it still was not worth the buy.

My family 6.15.08 Dad's Day

2008-07-16T16:51:00.000-07:00

I made it into a black & white photo and printed a 5x7, it's now framed on my desk....maybe that will be one surface to stay clutter free:)

Simple Woman's Daybook 7/16/08

2008-07-16T03:59:00.000-07:00

These are supposed to be done Monday, but this is my 1st time, so I figured I'd go ahead and post

Outside My Window...the sun is up and it's getting hot outside

I am thinking...that I need to get up and get moving.

I am thankful for...my children, each and every day, no matter if they are on a mission to drive me crazy:)

From the kitchen...I smell pot roast cooking in the crockpot.

I am wearing...a white t-shirt and mickey/minnie lounge pants.

I am creating...a Christmas notebook plan, trying to go through it once before class starts next month. I am also trying to create a clean, decluttered home to raise my family in.

I am going...to be organized this Christmas, have things done ahead of time and enjoy the extra time with my children.

I am reading...proverbs 31 and my Christmas books.

I am hoping...to be in a new (bigger) house by the start of school next year.

I am hearing...my kids snore:) so much more peaceful than them arguing:)

Around the house...I am thinking things don't look too bad, if I can just keep up with my dailies:)

One of my favorite things...is getting up early before everyone else, to have a little peace in my day, before it gets crazy.

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week: to get my office clean/decluttered and painted.

Here is picture thought I am sharing...

This is a picture of my desk BEFORE. I have almost finished it, I have done 5 shelves (1 left), 1 cabinet (1 left), 2 drawers (1 left), left side & middle of hutch (right side left to do).
~**~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~~**~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
This is a meme from the simple woman's daybook.

Beef Stroganoff (OAMC 4 meals; 6 servings each)

2008-07-10T17:45:00.000-07:00

Beef Stroganoff (OAMC 4 meals; 6 servings each)

Recipe By : Cherylann
Serving Size : 24
Categories : Main Dishes OAMC

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
6 pounds steak -- cut into 1/2" cubes
4 small onions
8 Tablespoons flour
2 teaspoons salt
2 teaspoons pepper
2 Tablespoons paprika
4 cans diced tomatoes
4 cups sour cream (Do not buy until day of meal)
4 pounds egg noodles -- Do not cook until day of meal

Label 4 gallon bags. Mix flour, paprika, salt and pepper. Put in one of the gallon bags. Add meat; coat well with flour mixture. Divide between the 4 bags.
Divide the tomatoes between the bags. Freeze.

To serve: Thaw. Put in crockpot on low for 3 1/2 hours. Add sour cream; cook 30 minutes more, stir in thoroughly.

Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 562 Calories; 23g Fat (37.7% calories from fat); 28g Protein; 59g Carbohydrate; 3g Dietary Fiber; 135mg Cholesterol; 242mg Sodium. Exchanges: 3 1/2 Grain(Starch); 2 1/2 Lean Meat; 1/2 Vegetable; 3 Fat.

Beef and Cheddar Quiche (OAMC 4 meals; 6 servings each)

2008-07-10T17:32:00.000-07:00

Beef and Cheddar Quiche (OAMC 4 meals; 6 servings each)

Recipe By :Cherylann
Serving Size : 24
Categories : Main Dishes OAMC

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
1 dozen eggs -- beaten
4 cups whipping cream
salt and pepper -- to taste
4 sprigs fresh rosemary -- chopped
4 teaspoons Italian seasoning
4 teaspoons basil
4 teaspoons thyme
4 teaspoons oregano
4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
4 cups ground beef -- browned and drained
4 9" deep dish pie crust -- at room temperature

Preheat oven to 450°.

Mix eggs, cream, cheese, spices and beef together; spread into pie crusts.

Bake for 15 minutes; lower oven to 350° and continue baking for 15 minutes.

Cool; put one quiche into 4 gallon freezer bags. Freeze.

To reheat: Preheat oven to 350°. Heat for 30 minutes or until heated through.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 370 Calories; 34g Fat (81.4% calories from fat); 15g Protein; 2g Carbohydrate; trace Dietary Fiber; 212mg Cholesterol; 193mg Sodium. Exchanges: 0 Grain(Starch); 2 Lean Meat; 0 Non-Fat Milk; 5 1/2 Fat.

Baked Beans Dinner (OAMC 4 meals; 6 servings each)

2008-07-10T17:29:00.000-07:00

Baked Beans Dinner (OAMC 4 meals; 6 servings each)

Recipe By :Cherylann
Serving Size : 24
Categories : Main Dishes OAMC

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
4 pounds ground beef -- browned and drained
4 sprigs fresh rosemary -- chopped
1 Tablespoon Italian seasoning
1 Tablespoon basil
1 Tablespoon thyme
1 Tablespoon oregano
salt and pepper -- to taste
1 cup Worcestershire sauce
2 cups ketchup
2 cups maple syrup -- or 1 cup brown sugar, packed
4 large cans baked beans
2 pounds bacon

Mix all ingredients, except bacon.

Divide into 4 gallon freezer bags. Put 1/2 pound of bacon each into 4 sandwich bags. Place bags of bacon in gallon bags with bean mixture. Freeze.

To serve: Thaw. Preheat oven to 350°. Heat 30 minutes or until no longer soupy.

Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 592 Calories; 39g Fat (59.1% calories from fat); 27g Protein; 34g Carbohydrate; 3g Dietary Fiber; 96mg Cholesterol; 1161mg Sodium. Exchanges: 1/2 Grain(Starch); 3 1/2 Lean Meat; 5 1/2 Fat; 1 1/2 Other Carbohydrates.

Serving Ideas : Serve with potato salad and a nice, cool summer dessert.

"Homemade" Meatloaf (48 servings; 6 OAMC meals)

2008-07-10T17:26:00.000-07:00

"Homemade" Meatloaf (48 servings; 6 OAMC meals)

Recipe By : Cherylann
Serving Size : 48
Categories : Main Dishes

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
4 packages McCormick's meatloaf seasoning
8 eggs -- slightly beaten
1 1/2 cups ketchup
1/2 cup Worcestershire sauce
2 cans mushroom pieces -- chopped
1 onion -- chopped
1 green pepper -- finely chopped
2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
fresh rosemary, basil, oregano, Italian parsley -- to taste; chopped
8 pounds ground beef
ketchup -- for topping

Preheat oven to 375°. Place foil in two 13X9" pan and 4 loaf pans.

Mix meatloaf seasoning and eggs together. Add ketchup, Worcestershire, mushrooms, onion, green pepper, seasoning and fresh herbs. Mix well.

Add ground beef, mix well. Make 16 mini loaves of meatloaf, place in prepared 13X9" pans. Fill loaf pans with regular size meatloaves. Top with ketchup.

Place in oven. Take 13X9" pans with mini loaves out after 30 minutes. Leave loaf pans in for 30 more minutes (for a total of 1 hour).

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 259 Calories; 21g Fat (73.6% calories from fat); 14g Protein; 3g Carbohydrate; trace Dietary Fiber; 100mg Cholesterol; 177mg Sodium. Exchanges: 0 Grain(Starch); 2 Lean Meat; 0 Vegetable; 3 Fat; 0 Other Carbohydrates.

Serving Ideas : Great with mashed potatoes or rice topped with tomatoes.

NOTES : Freeze the 2 loaves for future meals & eat the mini loaves for dinner and lunch the next day.

Or you can freeze before cooking. Thaw & bake for 30 minutes (mini loaves) 1hour meatloaves.

Easy Chicken Bake (OAMC 4 meals; 6 servings each)

2008-07-10T17:24:00.000-07:00

Easy Chicken Bake (OAMC 4 meals; 6 servings each)

Recipe By : Cherylann
Serving Size : 24
Categories : Casseroles OAMC

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
20 ounces stuffing mix for chicken -- divided
3 cups hot water
24 boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 large can cream of mushroom soup
2 cans cream of celery soup
1 cup sour cream
32 ounces frozen mixed vegetables -- thawed and drained

Preheat oven to 400°.

Sprinkle 1/2 cup of the dry stuffing mix evenly on bottom of four 13X9" baking dishes; set aside. Add hot water to remaining stuffing mix; stir just until moistened. Set aside.

Place chicken over dry stuffing mix in baking dish. Mix soup, sour cream and vegetables; spoon over chicken. Top with prepared stuffing.

Bake 30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.

Cool. Divide into 4 gallon freezer bags. Freeze.

To serve: Thaw. Preheat oven to 350°. Heat for about 20 mintues or until heated through.

Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 317 Calories; 6g Fat (17.6% calories from fat); 56g Protein; 7g Carbohydrate; 2g Dietary Fiber; 142mg Cholesterol; 299mg Sodium. Exchanges: 0 Grain(Starch); 7 1/2 Lean Meat; 1 Vegetable; 0 Non-Fat Milk; 1/2 Fat.

Cinnamon French Toast Sticks for the Freezer

2008-07-10T17:14:00.000-07:00

Cinnamon French Toast Sticks

Recipe By :Cherylann T. Smith
Serving Size : 48
Categories : French Toast OAMC

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
48 slices French bread -- 1" slices, trimmed
16 large eggs -- lightly beaten
1 cup milk
1/2 teaspoon grounc nutmeg -- ground
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon -- ground
2 tablespoons sugar

Slice bread into 4" long pieces 1/2" thick.

Mix eggs with milk.

Blend spices with sugar.

Combine spice mixture with egg mixture.

Dip bread pieces into egg mixture then fry for 2-3 minutes, turning so that toast is browned on all sides.

Cool, flash freeze, divide into labeled freezer bags

Tonight's dinner 7/8/08

2008-07-08T12:36:00.001-07:00

Homemade BBQ (pork shoulders on the pig cooker, pulled, chopped and mixed w/bbq sauce of the vinegar variety), homemade chips (potatoes sliced as thin as possible and deep fried), rolls, salad and leftover dessert.

Tonight's Dinner

2008-07-07T03:31:00.000-07:00

We'll have the Puerto Rican pork chops tonight. Didn't get to them last night, we had a power outage. The power came back on before dinner, but dh was already on the way out the door and I didn't want to chance getting 1/2 way through cooking and it go out again.

Yesterday's decluttering (7/6)

2008-07-07T03:28:00.000-07:00

Round 3:
have gotten rid of 1 bag of kids' clothes

tossed another bag full of trash

tossed a folding table and a cracked laundry basket

Round 2:
the chest has been picked up, and so I went through the videos............

Got rid of 62 videos!!!! They are going to my mom's for the kids to watch there.......now I don't have to pack dvd's anymore when they stay over there.

have been tossing like crazy today, much to my kids' chagrin:) I love it:)

Round 1:
I have emptied a box (mostly tossed stuff) and a bin (1/2 toys, 1/2 tossed). The bin was also tossed.

I took all the videos off the armoire, all the dvd's out of the chest & cabinet.

Moved the armoire across the LR, put the kids' confiscated tv on it (from their room)....plan to hook the dvd/vcr to this tv & use the other tv just for satellite. Since the kids lost the remote, the dvd/vcr won't work on the main tv, b/c we can't change the tv to the right channel (you have to enter the actual # instead of just pushing up & down).

Put the dvd's & vids with boxes back on the armoire. All the vids w/o boxes are in a bin to be sorted through. Tossed any empty boxes that are cracked or smushed.

Took out 3 bags of trash (so far).

going to use the small cabinet for an end table:).......inside I will have 2 shelves for my stuff:)

Dusted the armoire & tv.

listed the chest on freecycle.....must be picked up today!!

Baby Diaper supplies inventory

2008-07-06T05:55:00.000-07:00

Baby Diaper supplies:
o 1 pk. Size 1 diapers
o 2 pks. Size 2 diapers
o 6 boxes wipes
o Desitin
o Vaseline
o 2 Baby lotion
o 3 purell
o Lanolin mist
o Alcohol wipes

Bathroom inventory

2008-07-06T05:54:00.000-07:00

Bathroom products/Cleaners:

Shower:
o Auto spray

Shower Caddy:
o 2 shampoo
o Conditioner
o Body wash
o Poufs
o 6 toothbrushes
o toothpaste

Shower organizer:
o toothpaste
o toothbrush
o mouthwash
o shampoo
o body wash
o razor

Under sink:
o clippers & box
o razor & charger
o wipes
o potty seat
o scale
o 12 rolls charmin
o Dh travel toiletry kit
o basket #1:
o 2 pks. Toilet brush refills
o Clorox floor cleaner
o Floor wipes
o Air freshener
o basket #2:
o baby washcloths
o 4 shampoo
o 1 baby wash
o 2 baby oil
o Dh extra deodorant

Medicine cabinet:
Top:
o 2 peroxide
o Rubbing alcohol
o Mouth rinse
o Diabetes supplies

1-
o Cats deodorant
o Astringent
o Face mask
o Face wash
o Face moisturizer
o Foot cream
o Face med
o 2 bottles eye drops
o Pepto
o 2 nyquil
o Cortisone cream
o 2 pks. contacts

2-
o Dh deodorant
o Toothbrush
o Floss
o Dh razor

3-
o French manicure kit
o Nail color remover
o Vaseline
o Bath beads
o soap

Laundry Room Inventory

2008-07-06T05:53:00.002-07:00

wow, I didnt know i had so much :)

Laundry room products:
o 6 bottles detergent
o 1 color safe bleach
o 2 liquid fabric softener
o 1 dreft liquid detergent
o 1 dreft powder detergent
o 1 odoban
o 1 febreeze
o 3 rolls mega charmin
o 2 boxes dryer sheets
o 1 paper towel roll
o Clorox bleach

Cleaners inventory

2008-07-06T05:53:00.001-07:00

Looks like I need to get to cleaning :)

Cleaners:
o Swiffer wet pads
o 3 windex
o 2 spray bottles of white vinegar
o 1 gallon white vinegar
o 2 clorox ready mop refills
o Clorox bleach
o 3 clorox floor cleaner
o 1 sol-u-mel
o 1 bar keeper's friend
o Dust pads
o Litter liners
o Litter filter
o Cat brush
o Putty knife
o Lysol all-purpose cleaner
o 409 kitchen
o Greased lightening
o Trash bags
o Bleach spray
o 2 lysol kitchen
o Pledge
o 2 greenworks
o 1 ant spray
o 2 electrasol tabs
o 2 jet dry
o 1 hummingbird solution
o 1 lysol wipes
o 1 mr. clean wipes

Boxed food inventory (cart)

2008-07-06T05:52:00.000-07:00

o Noodle soup
o Hamburger helpers:
o 7 beef stroganoff
o 2 lasagna
o 8 cheeseburger macaroni
o 2 beef pasta
o 2 hard/soft taco kits
o 1 mexican pizza kit

small freezer inventory

2008-07-06T05:51:00.000-07:00

Sent dumplings, 3 lunchables, grilled chicken breasts, 1 gal. ketchup, 2 cheeseburger pasta, 2 beef stroganoff & 10# ice to big freezer.

Small Freezer
Main:
o Roast
o Ribs
o 3# chicken

Drawer:
o Caity's bream
o Bag of ice
o 2 ice trays

Door:
1-
o Baking soda
o 7 popsicles
o 2 freezer packs
o Marinated hamburgers

2-
o