Alcoholics Anonymous

Well I have decided I better join Alcoholics Anonymous. Not because I have a drinking problem. Its because I am going to have a drinking problem in a few years. I am thinking now.....I will have a 2 year old, 14 year old step-son and a 16 year old step-daughter. What the heck was I thinking!? I think I better start with the classes now, so I have the steps down by then! I can see it now. Hi....I am Kristen....I am not an Alcoholic YET, but I will be in 2 years! The funny thing is....I don't drink a huge amount and since I got pregnant, I have been craving Kahlua bad!

I recently signed Bill and I up for Child Birthing Classes ( Did you know....there are a ton of classes now!? Its not just Lamaze) Here is a description of the class we are going to take Description: These classes prepare mother and her support companion to become more physically, mentally, and emotionally ready for labor, birth, and postpartum. A variety of coaching, breathing, and relaxation techniques are demonstrated and practiced during class. Instruction covers the process of birth, pain management of labor, decision making, and the transition to parenthood. We have to go once a week for 4 weeks. Should be fun! LOL I will let you know how it goes.

recipe #12 Creamy One-Pot Pasta

This is soooooooo yummy and smells good cooking too! I thought my family wouldn't like it, but I am gonna try it next week!

Creamy One-Pot Pasta (Pampered Chef)
Ingredients:4 large garlic cloves, peeled
1 jar (7 oz) sun-dried tomatoes in oil, undrained
3 cans (14.5 oz each) chicken broth (5 1/4 cups)
1 lb uncooked penne pasta
1 head broccoli (2 cups small florets)
2 medium carrots, peeled
4 oz reduced-fat cream cheese (Neufchâtel)
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp coarsely ground black pepper
Grated fresh Parmesan cheese and snipped fresh basil (optional)
Directions:1. Thinly slice garlic using Paring Knife. Place garlic and 1 tbsp oil from sun-dried tomatoes into (8-qt.) Stockpot. Cook garlic over medium heat 2-3 minutes or until garlic is golden brown, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat; add broth. Return to burner; increase heat to high. Cover and bring to a boil. Stir in pasta; cover and simmer vigorously 8-10 minutes or until pasta is almost cooked but still firm, stirring occasionally using Mega Scraper.
2. Meanwhile, cut broccoli into small florets; place into Classic Batter Bowl. Cut carrots in half lengthwise; thinly slice crosswise on a bias using Santoku Knife. Drain sun-dried tomatoes; pat dry with a paper towel. Slice tomatoes into thin strips. Add carrots and tomatoes to batter bowl.
3. Cut cream cheese into cubes. Add vegetables, cream cheese, salt and black pepper to Stockpot. Stir until cream cheese is melted and fully incorporated. Reduce heat to medium; cover and cook an additional 2-4 minutes or until vegetables are tender. Serve immediately in Simple Additions(R) Dots Large Round Bowl. If desired, top with grated fresh Parmesan cheese and snipped fresh basil.
Yield: 6 servings
Nutrients per serving: Light: Calories 410, Total Fat 11 g, Saturated Fat 3.5 g, Cholesterol 15 mg, Carbohydrate 65 g, Protein 15 g, Sodium 1000 mg, Fiber 5 g
Cook's Tip: For an interesting flavor twist, omit salt, black pepper, Parmesan cheese and basil. Add 1 tbsp Moroccan Rub or Greek Rub.

For a heartier version of this recipe, add grilled turkey Italian sausage or sliced grilled chicken breasts to pasta.

If desired, 2 cups halved cherry tomatoes can be substituted for the sun-dried tomatoes.
Shopping List:4 large garlic cloves 1 jar (7 oz) sun-dried tomatoes in oil
3 cans (14.5 oz each) chicken broth (5 1/4 cups) 1 lb uncooked penne pasta
1 head broccoli (2 cups small florets)
2 medium carrots
4 oz reduced-fat cream cheese (Neufchâtel) 1/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp coarsely ground black pepper
Grated fresh Parmesan cheese and snipped fresh basil (optional)

Cook's Tips: For an interesting flavor twist, omit salt, black pepper, Parmesan cheese and basil. Add 1 tbsp Moroccan Rub or Greek Rub.

For a heartier version of this recipe, add grilled turkey Italian sausage or sliced grilled chicken breasts to pasta.

If desired, 2 cups halved cherry tomatoes can be substituted for the sun-dried tomatoes.

Miami Baby!

Well the baby went on its first trip. We went to Miami! Bill and I decided we better get away before the baby is born. Let me start by saying we had a nice time...........................................Now that I have said that I will tell you a little more about or Miami trip! First things first Alaska lost our only checked bag on the way out. Now when I say "OUR" bag.... I mean....we were the only one to lose a bag on the whole freaking flight! Are we lucky or what?!?! Our Flight got in at 9:55pm, so I really didn't care about that night, but when the lady said we would get it the next day on the same flight....I started to freak a little....I didn't have any pants in my carry on! What the hell was I thinking! She also informed me that since it was not more than 24 hours they did not give out vouchers! I took a deep breath and moved on to the rental car. We got our car without any hitches....Thank God and drove to our hotel.

First Night-
Now we stayed in a Hotel that was for Airline Crew Members only....the Sherry Frontenac! It was an older hotel, right on the beach and clean. I was happy. We checked in, put our stuff in our room and came down to the little bar by the lobby. I was happy there was no smoking! The bartender came over and put a napkin down for the both of us and said " I don't mean to babysit you, but are you gonna drink!" I laughed and informed her I just wanted a "virgin" pina colada. She didn't have a blender, so I settled for a "virgin" fruity drink. It was very tasty and Bill had a Midori sour. I ended up having 2 drinks and him 1 and the bill was $8.00 Wow...I thought that was pretty cheap for Miami! Then we headed up to the room...I fell asleep....Bill watched a movie.
The Second Day-
The next morning it was pretty overcast and windy, but still about 73 degrees. We had breakfast at the hotel (it was FREE....bagels, toast, english muffins, oatmeal, hard boiled eggs, cheese, cereal, pound cake, coffee and hot chocolate) After breakfast we sat by the pool for a bit and then went for a drive. Later that afternoon we went to Ceriones! I had Chicken Francaise and Bill had Chicken Parmesan and a glass of Ruffino Aziano Chianti Classico. He got pretty tipsy off one glass too....it was funny I can only imagine how I will be once I have the baby! Later that night we ordered pizza from across the street and Bill went to get it.
The Third Day-
The next Morning we got up, ate breakfast and then went down to the beach. It was a gorgeous day....sunny but had a breeze (about 80 degrees). Bill played in the ocean and I laid on the towel and picked up shells. I am happy to say....I put on a bathing suit (thanks to my friend Steph!) and no one tried to harpoon me! We then went to the pool and swam and laid in the sun for a bit. We went back to room, took showers and relaxed. We walked across the street later and had pizza again :P Can you see a trend here?? We like to eat! Later that night we decided to get dressed up and go to dinner. I was leary about eating Cuban food. I had never eaten it before, but decided to try it! We ate at Izzy's Cubi Thai. I had Camarones al Ajillo (Shrimp sauteed in olive oil and white wine-mmmmm yummm) Arroz Moro (Black rice-very tasty...I plan on making at home some time) Platanos Maduros (Sweet Plantains-better than I thought....yummm) and Tostones (Fried green plantains-not my favorite.....kinda dry and no flavor) Now Bill had Vaca Frita (Marinated shredded beef, fried then topped with grilled onions-was tasty) Arroz Moro (Black rice) Papitas Fritas (French Fries-original huh?) and Yuca (Boiled Cassava with Mojo Sauce-kind of like a potato...tasty) Cubans use alot of ONIONS! Overall we had a very nice time! I would definitely go to a Cuban restaurant again. I am glad we tried it!
The last day-
We got up in the AM, had breakfast and came back up to the room and get our stuff to leave. Well the baby decided it didn't care for what I had eaten for breakfast and made me dispose of it. After winding thru back streets (that had construction-fun fun) to get to the car rental return, we finally got to the airport about 8:30am (our flight left at 10:00am) We got on the plane and started to taxi and then returned to the gate. The Pilot announced that there was an mechanical and they would have someone look at it, do some paperwork and be on our way. Well....thats not exactly what happened! We sat on the plane for 2 hours, then they informed that we could get off if we wanted to. Well since my tummy was empty....I thought we better get off or I was going to be crankier than usual. We got some pizza and when we returned to the gate, they told us we needed to go and pick up our stuff from baggage and go to the ticket counter to see if they could get us on another carrier. Bill waited for bag and I went to the counter. We found out that American had 2 of the parts we needed but wouldn't give them up. I would of like to punch whoever in the face that wouldn't give them up! LOL While in the ticket line I met the rudest Security JERK in the world! We were standing in the corridor....fine.....I moved back and he kept yelling at another lady and I. Well then a guy from the airline tried to move the line and 5 people cut in front of me because the JERK was still yelling at me. Well I got him back when he was yelling at the airline guy and someone tried to get by him in the corridor. I tapped him on the shoulder 3 times before he turned around and said he was "Busy!" I informed him he needed to move....he was in the corridor. Everyone thought it was funny, but him. We didn't see him again that afternoon. We were in line for a few hours and they didn't have any other airline to send us on-not surprised. So they decided to use the plane that came in that night from Seattle and just return us all on that. Now I do have to say......I was not a happy camper, but there was other people on the flight I felt sorry for. There was an older Gentleman and a younger lady with a 10 week old baby, 2 small dogs and 7 bags. Her hubby had come in and got her checked in and then left her. I informed Bill that if he ever put me in that situation....he would die a violent death! He said "you shouldn't pack that much!" Boys....you got to love em! There were 2 cats on the flight and also a African Grey Parrot. Its owners were and older couple and the lady must of been to Joan Rivers Plastic Surgeon. She had a permanent smile....lol plus she was eating a sandwich and then would give the bird a bite and than eat a bite and so on. It was crazy! Alaska gave us $32 in food vouchers and we went and ate at Chilis. We tried to sleep, but you all know how ard that is. Finally our flight left around 11pm. They gave free alcohol (what the hell good is that for me! I wanted vouchers damnit! LOL) and movie players. We got into Seattle about 3:15am. We tried to sleep in a kids area and our flight left at 6:45am for home! UGHHHHHHHHHHHH! We finally got home at 9am and it was freaking freezing (temp was in the 20's) I am surprised our bodies didn't go into shock! I called my Mom on the way home and had her turn on our electric blanket.....we came home and passed out!

Just Swell!

Well my feet are starting to swell and my eyesight is going! WTH!!!! Some more of the wonderful things that make you go hmmmm! My back has been bothering me and I am still trying to figure out who is kicking me! (when I find em....it is not going to be pretty!) My DH bought me a pregnancy pillow for my birthday a while back and it is helpful, but I still don't sleep well. I think its the 32 times I have to get up a night to pee! Everyone keeps telling me that I will forget about all the bad once I see the baby. I remind them....I am doing this blog....so I won't forget! LOL Actually I am feeling pretty dang good lately! I haven't puked in a bit and I am not as tired as I was before. So that has got to count for something! Oh ya and the baby is kicking all the time. It is so neat to feel ( I am not looking forward to the foot in the rib tho) Also!!! I was so happy. Went to the Dr. and the first thing he said when he opened my folder was.... "your weight looks good" Well I am trying to figure out...is he scared of me, says that to all prego women, or if it was true!? LOL

ITS OFFICIAL! I AM DEFINITELY FEELING PREGO! but its all good.....I did ask for this, right!?

Recipe #11 Yummy Jello Salad

This recipe is awesome for the Holidays! I could sit and eat right fromt the pan! (but I am prego!)

Recipe #11 Yummy Jello Salad

Lg. pkg Cherry Jello

2 cans juice from blueberry muffins (no blue berries, just juice)

1 can crushed pineapple

Topping

1-2 8oz pkgs cream cheese

1 8oz. carton sour cream

1/2- 1 tsp vanilla

1/2- 1 c sugar to taste

Mix the jello w/ half the water required. Usually 1 cup hot water with 1 cup cold water after jello dissolves. Then put blue berry juice in jello. Add to the jello mixture 1 can crushed pineapple, drained. Place in refrigerator overnight. Cover with saran wrap.

Topping

1-2 8oz pkgs cream cheese, sour cream, vanilla and sugar to taste. Should be fairly sweet. Mix with mixer until creamy. After jello is set, spread evenly on jello. Sprinkle with red or green sprinkles.

pregnancy humor

Pregnancy Questions & Answers:



Q: Should I have a baby after 35?A: No, 35 children is enough.

Q: I'm two months pregnant now. When will my baby move?A: With any luck, right after he finishes college.

Q: What is the most reliable method to determine a baby's sex?A: Childbirth.

Q: My childbirth instructor says it's not pain I'll feel during labor, but pressure. Is she right?A: Yes, in the same way that a tornado might be called an air current.

Q: When is the best time to get an epidural?A: Right after you find out you're pregnant.

Q: Is there any reason I have to be in the delivery room while my wife is in labor?A: Not unless the word "alimony" means anything to you.

Q: Is there anything I should avoid while recovering from childbirth?A: Yes, pregnancy.

Q: Do I have to have a baby shower?A: Not if you change the baby's diaper very quickly.

Q: Our baby was born last week. When will my wife begin to feel and act normal again?A: When the kids are in college.

Recipe #10 New York-Style Pizza Crust Recipe

I have decided to start making our own pizza. It is so much better than store-bought or even from a local pizza chain. We can make individual pizzas and choose our own toppings! Bill and I made calzones the other day and thoroughly enjoyed them. We look forward to making them with the kids!

New York-Style Pizza Crust Recipe

1 hour 1 hour prep
1 twelve inch crust
2/3 cup water (11O°F to 115°F)
1 teaspoon sugar
1/8 ounce fast rise yeast or active dry yeast
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour or bread flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon cornmeal (optional)
Combine water and sugar in small bowl; stir to dissolve sugar.
Sprinkle yeast on top; stir to combine.
Let stand 5 to 10 minutes or until foamy.
Combine flour and salt in medium bowl.
Stir in yeast mixture.
Mix until mixture forms soft dough.
Remove dough to lightly floured surface.
Knead 5 minutes or until dough is smooth and elastic, adding additional flour, 1 tablespoon at a time, as needed.
Place dough in medium bowl coated with nonstick cooking spray.
Turn dough in bowl so top is coated with cooking spray; cover with towel or plastic wrap.
Let rise in warm place 30 minutes or until doubled in bulk.
Punch dough down; place on lightly floured surface and knead about 2 minutes or until smooth.
Pat dough into flat disc about 7 inches in diameter.
Let rest 2 to 3 minutes.
Pat and gently stretch dough from edges until dough seems to not stretch anymore.
Let rest 2 to 3 minutes.
Continue patting and stretching until dough is 12 to 14 inches in diameter.
Spray 12- to 14-inch pizza pan with nonstick spray; sprinkle with cornmeal, if desired.
Press dough into pan.
Preheat oven to 500F.
Follow directions for individual recipes, baking pizza on bottom rack of oven.

Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving was very nice and somewhat quiet! Next year will be not so quiet I am sure! Bill worked that day and I worked for a few hours. The kids came that afternoon and my parents too. They brought the Turkey, stuffing and most of the fixins! I made a chocolate cream pie (with the help om my DH) and a jello dessert that I am going put here on the blog. It is so yummy. We ate and then my parents headed home (they didn't even eat dessert!) they were full.

Pictures of the baby!

Here are few pictures of the baby! One is from 10/28 and the other is from today!

recipe #9 Homemade Oreos!

I know I know...these aren't fat-free, but they are yummy! I do not like store-bought oreos (YUCK...I blame it on my Mother~who baked fresh cookies for us when we were little!), but these are soooooo delicious! Try them and let me know what ya think!

Homemade Oreos

2 Packages Devils Food Cake mix

1 1/2 cup Vegetable Shortening

4 Eggs

2 Tbsp Milk

1 package Cream cheese

2 2/3 cup powdered sugar

3/4 cup butter

Cream together the first 4 ingredients. Roll into balls and bake at 350 for 9 mins. Let cool on pan.

Frosting: Mix cream cheese, powdered sugar, and butter. Spread between cookies.
Best if refrigerated before eating.

Good book!

I recently read this book. It was heart-wrenching, but worth reading. Just thought I would share it with you guys!

Against Medical Advice: A True Story-A non fiction book by
Hal Friedman and James Patterson


Cory Friedman woke up one morning when he was five years old with the uncontrollable urge to twitch his neck. From that day forward his life became a hell of irrepressible tics and involuntary utterances, and Cory embarked on an excruciating journey from specialist to specialist to discover the cause of his disease. Soon it became unclear what tics were symptoms of his disease and what were side effects of the countless combinations of drugs. The only certainty is that it kept getting worse. Simply put: Cory Friedman's life was a living hell. AGAINST MEDICAL ADVICE is the true story of Cory and his family's decades-long battle for survival in the face of extraordinary difficulties and a maddening medical establishment. It is a heart-rending story of struggle and triumph with a climax as dramatic as any James Patterson thriller.

Boy or Girl? Fact or Fiction?

As most of you know. We have decided to not to find out what the baby is until its born. I know I am making some people crazy (especially my Mother) , but we decided that there aren't many good surprises in the world that we can control. This is one we can! (Thanks to my friend Becky for giving me this excuse! She used it too!) I came across this article and thought it was funny! (I added the red)

Boy or Girl? Fact or Fiction?

Whether you believe it or not, every woman will hear some magical way to determine the sex of her child. Scientifically, the only ways to find out whether your baby will be a girl or a boy is to have an ultrasound performed sometime after the 20th week of pregnancy or, if you're having an amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling done, you can ask about your baby's sex. We had our 20 week ultrasound, but told em we didn't want to know! If you are thinking of getting pregnant and want to learn more about the latest scientific methods on this subject, take a peek at How to Choose the Sex of Your Baby.
Alternatively, you can wait until your baby is born and see for yourself. However, if you want something a bit more fun (although not necessarily very reliable), here are some old wives tales that claim to be able to determine the sex of your baby. You can try some for yourself and see if everyone is predicting the same sex of your baby.

Carrying High, Carrying Low
The way you are carrying during your pregnancy is one of the most oft cited ways of determining the sex of your baby. The general story goes that, if you're carrying low, you're having a boy. If you are carrying high, then you must be having a girl. Science says "NO, NO, NO!" to this: the way you carry is determined by muscle and uterine tone as well as the position of your baby. But who's to say that boys don't like being lower in their mom's stomach while girls prefer a view from the top? I think I am carrying high....maybe thats why everyone on here thinks its a girl. Or maybe people are just evil and want to see me go thru hell when the baby becomes a teen!

What Your Urine Says
This next test to determine a baby's sex may not be for everyone, although it is very simple. Just take a sample of your urine and mix it with Drano. Depending on the color change of your urine, you will have a boy or a girl. Unfortunately, there is no consensus on what color equals which sex. So, if you do decided to try this and your urine turns bluish yellow, brownish, brown, black or blue you will be having a boy. If your urine looks more greenish brown, green, blue or doesn't change at all, then you're having a girl. But be warned: if you decide to do this test, there could be some pretty harsh fumes produced - not to mention the possibility of an explosion!. Now this just sounds weird! I will not be trying this one! LOL Plus we don't have any Drano...I don't think.

Heartbeats
One belief that has been around for some time, and even had some acceptance in the medical community at one point, is that the fetal heartbeat differs for boys and girls. If you're having a girl, then the fetal heart rate will be above 140. A boy will have a heart rate below 140. However, that pesky science has reared its little head again to say that this is complete fiction. A baby's heart rate is not affected by its sex until it is born, when a girl's heart rate will increase considerably compared with boys during labor. Usually the heartbeat is higher than 140 and my Dr. has said from the beginning...."I think its a girl!" When I told him I didn't want to know...he said "I am usually wrong!" LOL

Craving Something…Sweet?
Many people believe that your cravings are caused by the sex of your baby. So, if you can't get enough chocolate, you could be having a girl. Well if you have been reading my blog....you know I have been having some chocolate. Actually I have eaten more chocolate this pregnancy, than in my entire life! Does the idea of drinking straight lemon juice sound delicious to you? NO Then those sour cravings are a result of the little boy inside of you. However, if you go by the scientists, then some of them will claim that you're not even having cravings because cravings just don't exist. WHATEVER!!! Must be Male scientists that lived in a cave that made these claims. Cuz most men know about cravings! I haven't had mine get up in the middle of the night.....YET!

Weight Gain
Thankfully, this one doesn't refer to your weight gain. The belief is that, if your husband puts on weight during your pregnancy, then you will be having a girl. If he doesn't put on a pound, then you're carrying a boy. My DH says he has put on some weight since I have gotten pregnant. I want to know where!

Is Her Face Round and Full?
Some say that the shape and fullness of your face during pregnancy can indicate your baby's sex. Every woman gains weight differently during pregnancy, and every woman experiences different skin changes. If people tell you that because your face is round and rosy you are having a girl, they might be right - but it's just as likely that they are wrong! If someone says my face is round and rosy....they may have have "summer teeth" Some will be in their pocket...some will be in their mouth. Good tip to know, huh?

At-Home Tests
Here's a test that you can do next time you change or get out of the bath. Look in the mirror at your breasts. If the right one is larger, you're having a boy! A larger left breast indicates a girl (if they're the same size, does that mean you're having one of each?). Bill says they are the same! LOL
H old a pendant over your hand. If the necklace swings back and forth, you're having a boy. If it is more of a circular motion, then it's a girl. This can also be done by suspending a ring on a string above your belly. Ok...when I did this.....it went in a circle. When Bill tried.....it stood still. What the frick! We are having an ALIEN!
Do you have acne? Some believe that getting acne during your pregnancy indicates you're carrying a girl. Maybe the acne is caused by twice the amount of female hormones? I haven't had much acne at all.
Pick up a key. If you've picked it up by the thinner end, you're having a girl. Picking it up by the bottom, rounder part means a boy is on the way. Did you pick it up by the middle? Then congratulations! You're having twins! Another weird one! I pick my keys by the key chain! LOL
Ask yourself what you think you're having. In a study that asked women with no previous knowledge about their baby's sex, the moms-to-be correctly guessed the sex of their baby 71% of the time. I have no clue yet, but if I get a feeling...I will let you know!

Recipe #8 Homemade egg noodles

I made these noodles and then put them into homemade chicken soup. It was sooooo yummy! Don't just love comfort food! I guess I do. Glad I am prego during the winter :P

Homemade Egg Pasta

2 cups all purpose flour

1/2 tsp salt

5 tbls water

2 tsp oil

2 eggs, beaten

Lightly spoon flour into measuring cup; level off. In small bowl, combine flour and salt; blend well. Make a well in center; add water, oil and eggs. Gradually work flour into liquid to form dough. On floured surface, knead until dough is smooth, 2 to 3 minutes. Wrap dough in plastic bag; let rest at room temperature for 1 hour.

On floured surface, roll half of dough out as thin as possible into rectangle (about 18x15 inches). Sprinkle lightly with flour. Starting at shortest side, loosely fold dough over into thirds. Cut corsswise into 1/4 inch slices for fettuccine or 1/8 in slices for linguine. Unfold slices; if desired, cut into shorter lengths. Repeat with remaining half of dough.

Bring 12 cups water and 1 tbls salt to boil. Drop pasta into boiling water. After water returns to a boil, cook uncovered 5 to 10 minutes or until pasta is tender, stirring occasionaly; drain.

New picture of baby belly!

Here is the updated picture of my baby belly. I even dyed my hair! People told me that people you don't know will touch your belly. It is a little weird....I am just glad they don't know that my boobs have gotten bigger too! That really would be weird! LOL

Update

I decided I better do an update on my pregnancy. Sorry, No recipe on this entry! LOL (that doesn't mean I won't talk about food!) Well the baby is moving like crazy! It is hard for others to feel it, but I sure do! At first I thought it was just gas, but it wasn't....lol The baby even wakes me up in the middle of the night doing acrobatic movements! I thought the second trimester you weren't supposed to throw up as much....wrong! I need to take some new baby belly pictures....I will in the next few days! Also Cornflakes rock! I have been craving them like crazy. Yesterday the family all had icecream for dessert and I had CORNFLAKES! Yummmmmmmy!

Recipe #7 Power cooking!

I have been doing some power cooking! Some of you may know what that is....others will be confused. Power Cooking- is cooking multiple meals at once...it saves time, money and energy. Even those who hate to cook, love this because you get it done in one day! You’ll make fewer trips to the grocery store, with fewer impulse purchases. Even a "quick trip" for an extra ingredient or two is time-consuming, especially with children in tow. Power Cooking combines the time-consuming tasks of planning your meals, buying groceries, and slicing and dicing. After Power Cooking, you will save money by reaching into your freezer for your family’s meal rather than reaching for the telephone for take-out. Eating out is expensive; it costs a family of four at a full-service restaurant at least $50 for one meal!
Eating at home with your family is priceless!

If you have any questions about power cooking, let me know!

Make Ahead Ground Beef
{Yields enough beef for 3 meals}
3 medium onions
3 lb lean ground beef or ground turkey
3 garlic cloves, pressed
1. Chop onions using Food Chopper.
2. Place onions, beef and garlic pressed with Garlic Press into (12-in.) Skillet. Cook over medium-high heat 15-18 minutes or until beef is no longer pink, breaking into crumbles using Mix ‘N Chop.
3. Divide beef mixture into three portions.

Beef Stroganoff
Prepare and freeze
To one portion of Make-Ahead Ground Beef, add:
8 oz sliced mushrooms
1 can (10¾ oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
¼ cup water
1 tsp ground paprika
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp coarsely ground black pepper
Combine in large resealable plastic bag. Freeze for up to three months.
2. Defrost
Microwave packet on DEFROST (30% power) 8-10 minutes or until softened. Pour into (10-in.) Skillet and bring to a simmer over medium heat.
(If cooking immediately, combine ingredients in (10-in.) Skillet and bring to a simmer over medium heat.)
3. Finish and serve!
• Stir 8 oz sour cream into beef mixture.
• Cook 1 lb egg noodles; drain. Toss with ¼ cup snipped fresh parsley and 2 tbsp melted butter.
• Spoon stroganoff over noodles and sprinkle with additional paprika and parsley, if desired.
Yield: 6 servings
Nutrients per serving (excluding optional ingredients):
Calories 400, Total Fat 22 g, Saturated Fat 11 g, Cholesterol 110 mg, Carbohydrate 27 g, Protein 22 g, Sodium 660 mg, Fiber 2 g

Saucy Beef Chili
1. Prepare and freeze
To one portion of Make-Ahead Ground Beef, add:
1 can (16 oz) chili beans in sauce, undrained
1 can (14.5 oz) petite diced tomatoes, undrained
1½ cups water
1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
1 pkt (1.48 oz) chili seasoning mix
Combine in large resealable plastic bag. Freeze for up to three months.
2. Defrost
Microwave packet on DEFROST (30% power) 8-10 minutes or until softened. Pour into (10-in.) Skillet and bring to a simmer over medium heat.
(If cooking immediately, combine ingredients in (10-in.) Skillet and bring to a simmer over medium heat.)
3. Finish and serve!
• Spoon chili into bowls.
• Top with shredded cheddar cheese, sliced green onions or sour cream, if desired.
Yield: 6 servings
Nutrients per serving (excluding optional ingredients):
Calories 260, Total Fat 8 g, Saturated Fat 3 g, Cholesterol 50 mg, Carbohydrate 27 g, Protein 21 g, Sodium 980 mg, Fiber 6 g
Serving Suggestions: This chili can be served on top of baked potatoes or with purchased cornbread, if desired.

Taco Soup
To one portion of Make-Ahead Ground Beef, add:
1 can (4 oz.) diced green chilies
2 cans corn
4 cans stewed tomatoes
1 can pinto beans
1 can kidney beans
taco seasoning packet
Ranch dressing/dip packet
optional: chopped cilantro
Monterey Jack or Cheddar cheese
Coarsely chop onion using Chef’s Knife. Open cans using Smooth-Edge Can Opener and do not drain. Open packets using Kitchen Shears. To one portion of Make-Ahead Ground Beef, add: all ingredients except cheese and cook over medium heat for 30 minutes. Cool completely and pour into freezer bag, squeeze air out of bag and freeze. Reheat and serve in Coffee & More Cups. If desired, grate cheese on top of soup using Deluxe Cheese Grater.

recipe #6 One Dish Chicken Supper

This is super easy and pretty yummy! Perfect time to pull out the crockpot!

One Dish Chicken Supper
4 boneless, skinless chicken breast
10 3/4 oz can of cream of chicken or mushroom soup
1/3 c milk
1 pkg Stove Top stuffing mix and seasoning packet
1 2/3 c water

Place chicken in slow cooker. Combine soup and milk. Pour over chicken. Combine stuffing mix, seasoning mix and water; spoon over chicken. Cover and cook on low 6-8 hours.

Mothers lie!

I have heard things like "During my 2nd trimester I felt better than I have ever felt in my life!" or "I loved being pregnant, it was so much fun!" Now I know you guys LIE! Pregnancy is very interesting, it can be disgusting, it is definitely a miracle, but fun....its NOT! LOL I have decided there are Mothers everywhere sitting in the corner and laughing at the pregnant ones! I can hear the conversations now "Look Jenny theres one that believed what we said about how great it is" "Ya I know Molly, we shouldn't tell her about the spreading of the pelvis ( I seriously would love to know who keeps kicking me while I am sleeping!)" Then they both laugh.

I know I know....it is all worth it and I hope you guys are right! LOL Everyone says when you get to hold your bundle of joy for the first time, you forget everything! I doubt it! LOL and if I do....I have this blog to remind me. HEHE I have told Bill that if he hears me make a statement like above, I give him full rights to smack me up side my head! Don't get me wrong.....I am very excited about being pregnant, but spontaneous vomiting is not fun! I mean if I am gonna vomit...I at least want something good to drink before hand!

Recipe #5 Chicken Enchiladas

Chicken Enchiladas

3-4 Chicken Breasts or one whole chicken cooked (boiled) and cut up
1 can of cream of mushroom
1 can of cream of chicken
1 small can of green chilies
1 pkg flour tortillas
cheddar cheese

Add cooked chicken (cut up or shredded), soups, chilies, 1/2 cup of water together. Tear 1/2 the tortillas up in a baking dish. Add 1/2 the chicken mixture. Then rest of tortillas and rest of chicken mixture. Top with cheese. Bake until browned

I have friends that add sour cream to the chicken mixture. I have never tried it, but maybe next time I will!

Bonus Recipe #4 Hershey's "Perfectly Chocolate" Chocolate Cake

I made this cake in a (PC) rice cooker in the microwave! I mixed it up in the rice cooker. Dropped store bought frosting in and cooked for 9-12 minutes. I didn't cook mine long enough, but it is so oooey gooey good! YUM!

Hershey's "Perfectly Chocolate" Chocolate Cake

2 c sugar

1 3/4 c flour

3/4 c Hershey's cocoa

1 1/2 tsp baking powder

1 1/2 tsp baking soda

1 tsp salt

2 eggs

1 c milk

1/2 c vegetable oil

2 tsp vanilla extract

1 c boiling water

Heat oven to 350. Grease and flour 2 9in. round baking pans. Combine dry ingredients in large bowl. Add eggs, milk, oil and vanilla; beat on medium 2 mins. Stir in boiling water (batter will be thin) Bake 30-35 mins or until wooden toothpick inserted comes out clean. Cool 10 mins; remove from pans to wire racks. Cool completely.

"Perfectly Chocolate" Chocolate Frosting

1 stick butter or margarine

2/3 c Hershey's cocoa

3 c powdered sugar

1/3 c milk

1 tsp vanilla

Melt butter. Stir in cocoa. Alternately add powder sugar and milk, beating on med. speed to spreading consistency. Add more milk if needed. Stir in vanilla. About 2 cups.

recipe #3 Taco-Filled Pasta Shells

Ok...this next recipe I tried but not totally....sometimes I don't have all the ingredients, so you have to improvise. So mix it up some! It was delicious! Also this is for 2 batches...one to eat now and one to eat within 3 months! I have started doing something called Power Cooking and love it. It is also called OAMC- Once a month cooking. I don't cook for a whole month, but I cook for a whole week in a day. You just make large quantities of food in one day and put in ziploc bags. You pull the ziplocs out in the am and presto...you have a good meal quickly. If you have more questions about power cooking, let me know. I love it. I will have to start cooking prior to having the baby, so I won't have to cook every night! Sleep is more important! LOL Also...to those who have tried to make a comment and had difficulties...you should be able to know. Please do! I love to hear what you guys have to say!

Taco-Filled Pasta Shells

2 lbs ground beef

2 envelopes taco seasoning

1 pkg (8oz) cream cheese, cubed

24 uncooked jumbo pasta shells

1/4 c butter or margarine, melted

Additional Ingredients (for each casserole)

1 c salsa

1 c taco sauce

1 c shredded cheddar cheese

1 c shredded Monterrey jack or mozzarella

1-1 1/2 c crushed tortilla chips

1 c sour cream

3 green onions chopped

In a skillet, cook beef until no longer pink; drain. Add taco seasoning; prepare according to package directions. Add cream cheese; cover and simmer for 5-10 minutes or until melted. Transfer to a bowl; chill for 1 hour. Cook pasta according to package directions; drain. Gently toss with butter. Fill each shell with about 3 tablespoons meat mixture.

Place 12 shells in a greased 9 inch square baking dish. Cover and freeze for up to 3 months. To prepare remaining shells, spoon salsa into greased 9 inch square baking dish. Top with stuff shells and taco sauce. Cover and bake 350 for 30 minutes. Uncover sprinkle with cheese and chips. Bake 15 minutes longer or until heated through. Serve with sour cream and onions.

** to use frozen shells; Thaw in the refrigerator for 24 hours ( shells will be partially frozen) Remove from dish. Add salsa to dish; top with shells and taco sauce. Cover and bake at 350 for 40 minutes. Uncover; continue as above. (6 servings)

Bonus Recipe #2 Best ever brownies

Yesterday I had a a slight problem. I wanted (I mean the baby wanted) Brownies and I didn't have a box mix. So I started looking online for a recipe for homemade brownies and found one that was soooo yummy and easy! I will never make them from a box again! Here is the recipe...you gotta try it! Enjoy!

Best ever brownies
INGREDIENTS
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 cup white sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 eggs
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

DIRECTIONS
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease a 9x9 inch baking pan.
In a medium bowl, mix together the oil, sugar, and vanilla. Beat in eggs. Combine flour, cocoa, baking powder, and salt; gradually stir into the egg mixture until well blended. Stir in walnuts, if desired. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the brownie begins to pull away from edges of pan. Let cool on a wire rack before cutting into squares.

Recipe 1# Hashbrown Casserole

I have decided to do "recipe of the week" or at least try to do a recipe a week! Here is the first entry. This is a recipe I learned from somebody at my old work World Travel. It is yummy for breakfast or as a side dish with dinner. I haven't made it for a while, but I think I might soon! It is super easy and delicious!

Hash brown Casserole
1- 32oz bag frozen hash browns

1 can cream of chicken soup

1/4 c butter

1/4 c chopped onion

8 oz cheddar cheese

8 oz sour cream

salt and pepper

dried parsley

you can add crumbled bacon, cooked sausage, ham, or green peppers.
Brown onion in butter. Add all ingredients except potatoes to sauce pan. Mix. Place hash browns in a 9 x 13 pan.Pour sauce over top.
Sprinkle with parsley. Bake 350 for 45 mins.

Oh My!

Can you say YUMMMMMM!? I saw this Play & Freeze Icecream Maker and thought this would be fun camping. Well tried it out today and it was yummmmmy! Made vanilla icecream and the whole family enjoyed it. There was a little left over and I mixed hot chocolate mix in it and added creamy peanut butter! OH MY! It was very yummy! I plan on perfecting it and trying many different kinds! Good thing I am getting my Calcium! Can't wait to try it camping!

Oh I forgot!

I forgot to add....The Number One Strange thing you do in pregnancy is.........

YOU FORGET EVERYTHING! The baby sucks your brain!

Some strange things that happen during pregnancy

Here are a few things that make me go hmmmm......


1. Some women produce excess saliva- up to 3 or 4 quarts a day! What the heck for?!?!

2. My balance is totally off. I am stumbling around all the time. I swear people think I am drunk!

3. You still can bleed even though you are pregnant! Some people think this is one of the bonuses of being pregnant! NOT Bleeding!

4. I have no clue how I can go to the bathroom before I go to bed and still wake at 12:00am, 2:00am, 4:00am and again when I get up at 6:00am!

5. Weird things happen like your gums bleed ....Why??

6. I have started to dry heave in the shower. Its not morning sickness....it happens whenever I take a shower.

7. I can gag on my own bodily function...like Phlegm.....yumm huh!

8. I dream some very vivid and strange dreams! Usually someone is chasing, shooting or trying to kill me in some way! I had a dream that the kids were hiding infant twins in the garage and only feeding them once a day! LOL It is bizarre. I used to never remember my dreams!

9. I am not sure this is a pregnant thing or something I just started doing......grinding my teeth

10.Pica is a disorder that makes you crave coal, soap, dirt, paint and many other things when you are pregnant. Very strange. Glad I haven't had the urge to make mud pies!

I haven't experienced all of these. Some of them are just things I have heard of. After experiencing some of these strange things. I wonder if other Women don't tell you, so they can laugh behind your back! LOL Pregnancy is a very bizarre, fun, absolutely amazing experience. Please if you remember any strange things that happened to you during pregnancy......leave a comment! I would love to hear them! Also I plan on writing more...since I am still early in my pregnancy. I am sure there is more to come!

New craving! Chocolate is a Vegetable!

So the baby definitely likes chocolate :P I was craving hot chocolate , but I put a twist on it from something I had tried when I lived in NY. I had this wonderful treat at the Milleridge Inn on Long Island. It was a Hot Chocolate Float. Hot chocolate with a scoop of icecream...mmmm sure is good! My family didn't even complain....I made them one too! I am brought back to a conversation I had with a friend. She said that chocolate comes from a cocoa bean so it must be a vegetable! I agree with her!

Cafe Preggers

I came across this in a pregnancy magazine and thought it was funny (and so true)

************

First Trimester Menu

Appetizer

Tums Compote

Entree

Fresh saltines on a bed of Saltines, lightly seasoned with Saltines

Beverage

Ginger ale (IV drip available upon request)

Dessert

Ten minutes in a dim room with an ice bag on your head

************

Second Trimester Menu

Appetizer

Half a roast of chicken, extra crispy

Entree*

A succulent leg of lamb smothered in pork chops, served with BBQ ribs and garnished with cheeseburgers (all burnt beyond recognition for your safety)

Beverage

Toll House-pie smoothie, prepared with 1/2 pint heavy cream

Dessert

9" x 16" pan of double-fudge brownies

************

Third Trimester Menu

(Each course followed by 15-minute neck massage and/or bathroom break)

Appetizer

Three bites of tossed salad

Entree

Two bites of lasagna

Beverage

None- So you'll have room for dessert

Dessert

A Tic Tac

*Double portions available if you're expecting twins

I am in my 2nd trimester! WOOO HOOO LOL

Baby Belly!

Here are a couple of pics of the baby belly. Yes it is getting BIGGER! I will write more later.

Camping!

We decided to go camping finally! We haven't been for a very long time! So we threw our stuff in the car and headed out of town for a little R & R. We didn't go far, but it was still nice. We stayed at Big Eddy We were finally able to let our dog "Crash" swim. He sure had fun! The kids and DH did too! We all did. The food was yummy (food tastes better cooked outside) , I slept on a cot...the ground is too hard on an old prego lady! I can't wait to go back! Here are some pics :P

mmmm ribs!

I have.....I mean the baby has been craving ribs. So we decided we would make our way down to Tony Romas. Well unfortunately we found out that Tony Romas is closed! How rude! My DH knows if the baby doesn't have ribs it will make Momma cranky and make him cranky too. So he remembered seeing an article about a place in Meridian....Andrew's Rib Shack . I had called my friend Steph trying to find a rib place and we drove right by it! We shared a slab of ribs and a small order or smashed potatoes. It was a bit pricey, but we don't eat out very often. The girl at the counter gave us a rib to try while we were ordering.....couldn't she tell by the drool on my chin...I was there for ribs! LOL They were sooooo yummy. They had different flavored bar-b-cue sauces. I liked the Texas.....not too sweet, had a kick....DH like the kicked up sauce......sweeter and spicy. We brought some home too! Midnight snack....cuz there is no way I could eat more right now! Although I want to....I don't want the DH to get them first...hehe Maybe I could slip him some Turkey (tryptophan) Actually I am beginning to wonder if he slipped me some....I am getting very sleepy! zzzzzzzzzzzzzzz that's what a full belly does for ya.

Found the Oriental Pasta Recipe!

I finally was able to make my Oriental Pasta Salad recipe! Woohoo and it was yummy! I called my wonderful Mother and she found the recipe! I decided to make a HUGE pot of it so I had leftovers. Well the DH came in and smelled it and wondered if that was what we were having for lunch. I actually had made it specifically for me and the baby, but I guess I could share! I may have to make it again soon!

Here is the recipe for any of you who would like to try.

Oriental Pasta Salad

1 LB. spaghetti cooked
1/4 c. corn oil
1/3 c. sesame oil
6 Tbsp honey
1/2 c. chopped cilantro ( I never add this)
3/4 c. chopped peanuts
1/2 c. green onions
2 Tbsp sesame seeds
5 Tbsp soy sauce
2 tsp dry red pepper flakes

In sauce pan, combine red pepper flakes, oils, honey and soy. Pour over pasta and refrigerate 4 hours or over night. Before serving add peanuts, onion, cilantro and sesame seeds and toss.

You can also add chicken, crab or shrimp.

I usually add the chicken to the sauce and cook. ENJOY!

It has been a while!

I haven't written in a while. Its not because I haven't had anything to say! I really have! Almost 2 weeks ago, I started having some issues with bleeding. My DH and I went to the the Dr. and everything was fine. I had some more issues and as a precaution the Dr. had me come in again. This time my DH was at work, so my Mom came with me! They did another ultrasound and she was able to see the little peanut. Well, it was very emotional for her, as it always is for me. Seeing your baby inside of you is amazing! We both got a little misty-eyed and she said "WOW, you can't feel that kid kicking!?" The baby was kick-boxing inside of me! LOL I can't yet, but looking forward to it! We are also excited to say....the baby doesn't look like a blob anymore. It actually looks like a baby! I will post a pic later :P

Not Sleepy!

I wish I could say this was me in the picture, but its not! I just laid in bed for the past 40 minutes and decided to get up so I don't wake the Hubby. I just can't sleep! All I could think about when I was laying there was a Oriental Pasta Salad recipe! LOL I had this recipe before, but haven't been able to find it! I have been craving Chinese food bad! Although I am nauseous, go figure. I am nibbling right now...on my friend the saltine :) Well the Hubby woke up to see if I was ok. Guess I am going to go see if I can go back to sleep. ZZZZZZZZZZZZ