HEALTH & BEAUTY TIPS – Page 2 – Chasing MY Life WHEREVER it Leads ME

HAPPY HOMEMAKER & MENU PLAN MONDAY week 6 of 2018

Good morning! Here we are at week 6 already. Can you believe that? Time is truly just flying by!!!! I hope you had a GREAT weekend.

So are you a Super Bowl watcher? We love football here and enjoyed yesterday’s game a lot, especially since we were voting fo the Eagles!

Do you watch just for the commercials? I don’t, since I love football, but I REALLY ENJOY the Super Bowl for the commercials almost as much as the game itself. My favorite commercials this year were:

M&M’S with DANNY DEVITO
ALEXA LOSES HER VOICE
DODGE RAM VIKINGS
ELI MANNING AND ODELL BECKHAM DIRTY DANCING
MARTHA STEWART AND JACK IN THE BOX
BUDWEISER CLYDESDALE
ALEXA SOUTHERN MODEL

Be sure to link up with Sandra at Diary of a Stay at Home Mom for Happy homemaker Monday and with Laura at I’m an Organizing Junkie for Menu Plan Monday.

OUTSIDE MY WINDOW & THE WEATHER OUTSIDE

The weather has been sooooooo crazy. One day was 80 degrees last week and then 57 degrees the next day. The lows at night have been just as crazy ranging from 30-60 degrees. This week is supposed to be just as crazy with patchy fog, low visibility and a few days of rain also.

ON THE BREAKFAST PLATE

Honey Nut cheerios and banana with milk and Green Tea

ON MY MIND / THINGS THAT ARE MAKING ME HAPPY

Last week was very sad for us as we lost our beloved Sady. Fur children are so precious and so hard to lose. I found her and her sisters behind the garage almost 20 years ago when they were about 2 weeks old. Her mother had been hit by a car. I raised the three of them by hand until they were old enough to find homes for, but Sady always had a special place in my heart. When she was little she would curl up on my neck after she took her bottle and sleep there. She was always a tiny little thing and I kept her as an indoor only cat. Sady ALWAYS thought she was a real person with so many human like qualities.

FAVORITE PHOTO FROM THE CAMERA

My uncle was here for dinner on Saturday night and brought me these great flowers for the table. I just love this little vase! It’s hard to see, but there is all sorts of pretty embossing all over it.

YAY – I get to start exercising today!

INSPIRATION

AS I LOOK AROUND THE HOUSE / WEEKLY TO DO LIST & HOUSE PROJECTS

LAUNDRY… quite a few loads this week, towels, bedding and clothing
LIVING AREAS… hubby helped me do a SERIOUS deep clean on Saturday before my uncle came for dinner so the house is still looking really good.
KITCHEN… pretty clean after a deep clean Saturday night
STUDIO… is just storage these days so nothing going on there
YARD… still nothing after the weekend storms, just too wet to do anything
BLOG… some recipe updating, future post planning and holiday post planning

CURRENTLY READING & TELEVISION / DVR / MOVIES

MOVIES

I’ve taped a few of the Hallmark Valentine’s movies to watch in some down time.

We actually ventured out into the world on Friday to see a movie – the first time hubby has really let me out among people for fear of me getting sick during recovery. We saw the new Winchester with Helen Mirren and Jason Clarke. I have always been enthralled with the Winchester Mystery House and love touring it whenever we are in the area. I loved the plot of the movie, but was hoping to see more of the actual house.

I’m now reading Marie Force’s Here Come’s the Sun part of the Green Mountain, Butler, Vermont series.

COMEDIES

Big Bang Theory, Young Sheldon, The Good Place, American Housewife, Better Late Than Never, Life in Pieces

MILITARY, POLITICAL & CRIME DRAMAS and a couple that qualify as comedies

NCIS, NCIS New Orleans and NCIS LA, Criminal Minds, Wisdom of the Crowd, S.W.A.T., Madam Secretary, Scandal, Designated Survivor, Brave, Valor, Seal Team, Blindspot, Macgyver, Scorpion, Law & Order SVU, Blue Bloods, Hawaii 5-0, Elementary, Chicago Fire, Chicago PD, Chicago Med, 911

DRAMAS

The Good Doctor, This is Us, The Resident, Elementary

SYFY

Z Nation, The Walking Dead, Flash, Supergirl, DC LEegends, Orville, Once Upon a Time, The X-Files

COOKING

Guy’s Grocery Games, Diner’s Drive-Ins and Dives, The Grill Dads, Beat Bobby Flay, Bobby and Damaris, Baked in Vermont, Kid’s Baking Championship, Worst Cooks in America, Giada

MENU PLANS FOR THE WEEK

	MON	TUES	WED	THUR	FRI	SAT	SUN
2 times a day B-FAST	Honey Nut Cheerios with Banana and Green Tea	Honey Nut Cheerios with Banana and Green Tea	Honey Nut Cheerios with Banana and Green Tea	Honey Nut Cheerios with Banana and Green Tea	Honey Nut Cheerios with Banana and Green Tea	QUICHE LORRAINE	BISCUITS & GRAVY CASSEROLE BAKE
2 times a day	1 cup 1% Milk or Protein Drink	1 cup 1% Milk or Protein Drink	1 cup 1% Milk or Protein Drink	1 cup 1% Milk or Protein Drink	1 cup 1% Milk or Protein Drink	1 cup 1% Milk or Protein Drink	1 cup 1% Milk or Protein Drink
1 time a day LUNCH	2-4 ounces Protein or yogurt	2-4 ounces Protein or yogurt	2-4 ounces Protein or yogurt	2-4 ounces Protein or yogurt	2-4 ounces Protein or yogurt	2-4 ounces Protein or yogurt	2-4 ounces Protein or yogurt
DINNER	6-8 ounces C.O.R.N. (clean out refrigerator night)	6-8 ounces PAN SEARED CHICKEN with CREAMY GARLIC PARMESAN BRUSSELS SPROUTS	6-8 ounces C.O.R.N. (clean out refrigerator night)	6-8 ounces BAKED GENERAL TSO CHICKEN	6-8 ounces C.O.R.N. (clean out refrigerator night)	6-8 ounces CHICKEN PARMESAN CASSEROLE	6-8 ounces C.O.R.N. (clean out refrigerator night)

SUCCESSFUL RECIPE LINKS FROM LAST WEEK

HEALTH & BEAUTY TIPS

HOMEMAKING/COOKING TIP

HAPPY HOMEMAKER & MENU PLAN MONDAY week 3 of 2018

Week 3 of 2018 is underway and I’m anxious to be over this recuperation mode and ready to get my energy back and get some serious things done! Though, it will be 6 more weeks until I get formally released and begin a serious exercise routine. That said, with ALL this flu going around I’m just as happy to be stuck inside away from people.

OUTSIDE MY WINDOW & THE WEATHER OUTSIDE

We’re having ANOTHER cold snap here and are supposed to have rain and wintry mix sleet added to the mix tomorrow and Wednesday. With the flu epidemic at raging proportions I’m really staying in and away from people!

ON THE BREAKFAST PLATE

GERBER’S GRABBER – Apple Carrot Pineapple & Green Tea

CRAFTS / PROJECTS

I started working on finishing the kitchen counters.

ON MY MIND / THINGS THAT ARE MAKING ME HAPPY

Starting later this week I can start to do a few more things, but am told the serious exercise and packing have to wait until the 90 day mark. I’m handling the food part okay and realize it will actually save us some money in the long run though that is being eaten up by the mandatory 5 times a day vitamins. They also sent me a blood work order to have done next month and I’m dreading the new 4 times a year blood work – 20 freaking tests!

FAVORITE PHOTO FROM THE CAMERA

We’ve been having quite a bit of clear weather lately and the sunsets have been really pretty.

INSPIRATION

AS I LOOK AROUND THE HOUSE / WEEKLY TO DO LIST & HOUSE PROJECTS

LAUNDRY… quite a few loads this week, towels, bedding and clothing – STILL washing most things every other day for a few more weeks to prevent infection
LIVING AREAS… can’t wait until I can relieve hubby of the duties and do a deep clean
KITCHEN… also needs a deep cleaning and paint touch up
STUDIO… is mainly storage these days so nothing going on there
YARD… hubby is going to mow and vinegar salt the weeds today before the rain tonight
BLOG… some recipe updating, future post planning and holiday post planning

CURRENTLY READING & TELEVISION / DVR

We’ve rented a bunch of Netflix movies the last several weeks to get me through the boredom and cold weather, but I’ve seen just about everything I want to see for awhile – really looking forward to spring at this point and getting out of this house!

I’m now reading Sophie Moss’ Seal Island series during my recuperation and am book #2, The Selkie Enchantress.

COMEDIES

BIG BANG THEORY, YOUNG SHELDON
THE GOOD PLACE, AMERICAN HOUSEWIFE, SPEECHLESS, GREAT NEWS
BETTER LATE THAN NEVER, LIFE IN PIECES

MILITARY, POLITICAL & CRIME DRAMAS and a couple that qualify as comedies

NCIS, NCIS NEW ORLEANS and NCIS LA, CRIMINAL MINDS, WISDOM OF THE CROWD, S.W.A.T.
MADAM SECRETARY, SCANDAL, DESIGNATED SURVIVOR
BRAVE, VALOR, SEAL TEAM, BLINDSPOT, MACGYVER, SCORPION
LAW & ORDER SVU, BLUE BLOODS, HAWAII 5-0, ELEMENTARY
CHICAGO FIRE, CHICAGO PD, CHICAGO MED, 911

DRAMAS

THE GOOD DOCTOR, THIS IS US, THE RESIDENT starts later this week

SYFY

Z NATION, the WALKING DEAD, FLASH, SUPERGIRL, DC LEGENDS
ORVILLE, ONCE UPON A TIME, THE X-FILES, THE ALIENIST starts later this week

COOKING

GUY’S GROCERY GAMES, BEAT BOBBY FLAY, BOBBY AND DAMARIS, BAKED IN VERMONT
KID’S BAKING CHAMPIONSHIP, WORST COOKS IN AMERICA

MENU PLANS FOR THE WEEK

I’ve placed orders this week with Home Chef and Hello Fresh to get back into the swing of cooking without leaving the house to shop since I still can’t carry grocery bags yet and I’m trying to stay away from people in general, but there will still be leftovers unfortunately. I planned a couple C.O.R.N. nights to use the leftovers.

	MONDAY	TUESDAY	WEDNESDAY	THURSDAY	FRIDAY	SATURDAY	SUNDAY
B-FAST	3-4 ounces EGGS or OATMEAL and GREEN Tea	3-4 ounces EGGS or OATMEAL and GREEN Tea	3-4 ounces EGGS or OATMEAL and GREEN Tea	3-4 ounces EGGS or OATMEAL and GREEN Tea	3-4 ounces EGGS or OATMEAL and GREEN Tea	TOASTED FRENCH TOAST	BACON & EGGS
2 times a day	1 cup 1% MILK or PROTEIN DRINK	1 cup 1% MILK or PROTEIN DRINK	1 cup 1% MILK or PROTEIN DRINK	1 cup 1% MILK or PROTEIN DRINK	1 cup 1% MILK or PROTEIN DRINK	1 cup 1% MILK or PROTEIN DRINK	1 cup 1% MILK or PROTEIN DRINK
1 time a day	2-4 ounces tuna salad or yogurt	2-4 ounces tuna salad or yogurt	2-4 ounces tuna salad or yogurt	2-4 ounces tuna salad or yogurt	2-4 ounces tuna salad or yogurt	2-4 ounces tuna salad or yogurt	2-4 ounces tuna salad or yogurt
LUNCH & DINNER	2 OUNCES PROTEIN with a small salad MAPLE GLAZED DUCK with BLOOD ORANGE SALAD and FINGERLING POTATOES	2 OUNCES PROTEIN with a small salad PARMESAN and ROSEMARY PORK CHOPS with ALMOND COUSCOUS and ROASTED CARROTS	2 OUNCES PROTEIN with a small salad CRISPY ONION CHICKEN with GREEN BEANS and MUSHROOM GRAVY	2 OUNCES PROTEIN with a small salad CHICKEN UNDER A ZUCCHINI BLANKET with MASHED POTATOES and GREEN BEANS	2 OUNCES PROTEIN with a small salad C.O.R.N.	2 OUNCES PROTEIN with a small salad SPAGHETTI & RICOTTA MEATBALLS with GARLIC GREEN BEANS	2 OUNCES PROTEIN with a small salad C.O.R.N.

SUCCESSFUL RECIPE LINKS FROM LAST WEEK

While these recipes were successful, we still prefer my Laverne Defazio pot roast and my Aloha BBQ Ribs (recipe later this month when I make them) to either of these recipes. I posted them in case anyone prefers their flavor profiles.

HEALTH & BEAUTY TIPS

HOMEMAKING/COOKING TIP

Be sure to link up with Sandra at Diary of a Stay at Home Mom for Happy homemaker Monday and with Laura at I’m an Organizing Junkie for Menu Plan Monday.

HAPPY HOMEMAKER & MENU PLAN MONDAY week 2 of 2018

WOW, it seems like it was just new year’s eve and here we are on the 8th already entering week 2! I hope you all had a great week. Mine was still low key as I continue to recuperate. 2 more weeks and I can enter a more normal activity life. YAY!!!!

OUTSIDE MY WINDOW & THE WEATHER OUTSIDE

The SUPER cold snap has broken here and the day time temps are supposed to be in the 60’s with the lows in the 30’s and 40’s, so I’m actually loving the weather right now.

ON THE BREAKFAST PLATE

Maple Brown Sugar Oatmeal with golden raisins

CRAFTS / PROJECTS

Unfortunately, I just didn’t have the drive to get anything accomplished during this recuperation. I’ve just been so slow to get my energy back.

ON MY MIND / THINGS THAT ARE MAKING ME HAPPY

I had a good 1 month check up with the surgeon this past Thursday. He said I’m doing great , but still have 2 more weeks of no lifting or cleaning etc… He did give me the go ahead to start experimenting with veggies and fruits to see what my body can tolerate. He wants me eating more calories because I’m losing too much weight.

The one thing that many people don’t understand is that this will never get bigger or stretch, IT IS WHAT IT IS FOREVER! So, I made up a diagram that makes it easier to see that the change is permanent. It also shows why more chewing and smaller portions are necessary as a few digestive processes are now bypassed.

The biggest issue I recently found out about is that there are tons of medications that I can NEVER take again because of the bypass because they can do serious damage to the “new” smaller stomach. Among them are the medications I take for Fibromyalgia and Systemic Lupus leaving me with only an occasional Tylenol as my only alternative for ANY pain.

FAVORITE PHOTO FROM THE CAMERA

With the deep cold I never left the house except to go to the doctor so never even took a picture last week.

INSPIRATION

AS I LOOK AROUND THE HOUSE / WEEKLY TO DO LIST & HOUSE PROJECTS

LAUNDRY… quite a few loads this week, towels, bedding and clothing
LIVING AREAS… plan on doing a deep clean today and tomorrow
KITCHEN… pretty clean
STUDIO… is mainly storage these days so nothing going on there
YARD… nothing
BLOG… some recipe updating, future post planning

CURRENTLY READING & TELEVISION / DVR

I’m reading Sophie Moss’ Wind Chime series during my recuperation and am book #3, WIND CHIME SUMMER.

COMEDIES

BIG BANG THEORY, YOUNG SHELDON
THE GOOD PLACE, AMERICAN HOUSEWIFE, SPEECHLESS, GREAT NEWS
BETTER LATE THAN NEVER, LIFE IN PIECES

MILITARY, POLITICAL & CRIME DRAMAS and a couple that qualify as comedies

NCIS, NCIS NEW ORLEANS and NCIS LA, CRIMINAL MINDS, WISDOM OF THE CROWD, S.W.A.T.
MADAM SECRETARY, SCANDAL, DESIGNATED SURVIVOR
BRAVE, VALOR, SEAL TEAM, BLINDSPOT, MACGYVER, SCORPION
LAW & ORDER SVU, BLUE BLOODS, HAWAII 5-0, ELEMENTARY
CHICAGO FIRE, CHICAGO PD, CHICAGO MED

DRAMAS

THE GOOD DOCTOR, THIS IS US

SYFY

Z NATION, WALKING DEAD, FLASH, SUPERGIRL, DC LEGENDS
ORVILLE, ONCE UPON A TIME, THE X-FILES

COOKING

GUY’S GROCERY GAMES, BEAT BOBBY FLAY, BOBBY AND DAMARIS, BAKED IN VERMONT
KID’S BAKING CHAMPIONSHIP, WORST COOKS IN AMERICA

MENU PLANS FOR THE WEEK
In the beginning I told hubby NOT to get used to my existing diet and the doctor has given me the permission to cook though I still cannot lift so hubby still has to help with the shopping, but is going to have to give up the bachelor foods 😀 While I can only eat a bite or two of what I make, there is NO reason hubby shouldn’t get a few home cooked meals this week. Food will go a A LOT further now, but I am going to have to adapt the recipes A LOT.

I also began Home Chef again for 4 meals this month to ease me back into things. No matter how you look at it proportions are going to be a challenge so now is the time to start rewriting and reworking recipes. I will also plan more C.O.R.N. nights into my menus.

In the meantime I will continue working on combining blogs with older recipes and developing newer recipes that encompass ALL the new requirements. I look forward to previewing those rework recipes in a few months.

	MONDAY	TUESDAY	WEDNESDAY	THURSDAY	FRIDAY	SATURDAY	SUNDAY
B-FAST	3-4 ounces SCRAMBLED EGGS, OATMEAL or WHOLE GRAIN CEREAL and GREEN Tea	3-4 ounces SCRAMBLED EGGS, OATMEAL or WHOLE GRAIN CEREAL and GREEN Tea	3-4 ounces SCRAMBLED EGGS, OATMEAL or WHOLE GRAIN CEREAL and GREEN Tea	3-4 ounces SCRAMBLED EGGS, OATMEAL or WHOLE GRAIN CEREAL and GREEN Tea	3-4 ounces SCRAMBLED EGGS, OATMEAL or WHOLE GRAIN CEREAL and GREEN Tea	3-4 ounces SCRAMBLED EGGS, OATMEAL or WHOLE GRAIN CEREAL and GREEN Tea	3-4 ounces SCRAMBLED EGGS, OATMEAL or WHOLE GRAIN CEREAL and GREEN Tea
2 times a day	1 cup LOWFAT MILK or PROTEIN DRINK	1 cup LOWFAT MILK or PROTEIN DRINK	1 cup LOWFAT MILK or PROTEIN DRINK	1 cup LOWFAT MILK or PROTEIN DRINK	1 cup LOWFAT MILK or PROTEIN DRINK	1 cup LOWFAT MILK or PROTEIN DRINK	1 cup LOWFAT MILK or PROTEIN DRINK
1 time a day	2-4 ounces tuna salad or yogurt	2-4 ounces tuna salad or yogurt	2-4 ounces tuna salad or yogurt	2-4 ounces tuna salad or yogurt	2-4 ounces tuna salad or yogurt	2-4 ounces tuna salad or yogurt	2-4 ounces tuna salad or yogurt
ME 2 times day DINNER FOR HUBBY	2 OUNCES PROTEIN – BROILED FISH or CHICKEN and VERY small salad PINEAPPLE PEANUT BUTTER BABY BACK RIBS	2 OUNCES PROTEIN – BROILED FISH or CHICKEN and VERY small salad C.O.R.N.	2 OUNCES PROTEIN – BROILED FISH or CHICKEN and VERY small salad SPAGHETTI CASSEROLE	2 OUNCES PROTEIN – BROILED FISH or CHICKEN and VERY small salad C.O.R.N.	2 OUNCES PROTEIN – BROILED FISH or CHICKEN and VERY small salad COFFEE BREWED POT-ROAST & BUTTERMILK CORNBREAD	2 OUNCES PROTEIN – BROILED FISH or CHICKEN and VERY small salad C.O.R.N.	2 OUNCES PROTEIN – BROILED FISH or CHICKEN and VERY small salad C.O.R.N. & SALTED CARAMEL CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIE BARS

SUCCESSFUL RECIPE LINKS FROM LAST WEEK

HEALTH & BEAUTY TIPS

HOMEMAKING/COOKING TIP

Be sure to link up with Sandra at Diary of a Stay at Home Mom for Happy homemaker Monday and with Laura at I’m an Organizing Junkie for Menu Plan Monday.

HAPPY HOMEMAKER & MENU PLAN week 1 of 2018

May 2018 be what 2007-2017 were supposed to be!

Honestly, I’m looking forward to better things in the days to come.

I’m not going to dwell on the past, BUT I am certainly going to focus on making 2018 the best year yet!

OUTSIDE MY WINDOW & THE WEATHER OUTSIDE

It’s 22 with the wind chill and I’m staying inside! Highs this week are only supposed to be in the 30’s before wind chill so I’m avoiding the outside except for my follow up with the surgeon later this week.

ON THE BREAKFAST PLATE

Green Tea and Banana

AS I LOOK AROUND THE HOUSE / WEEKLY TO DO LIST & HOUSE PROJECTS

LAUNDRY… quite a few loads this week, towels, bedding and clothing
LIVING AREAS… hubby is planning on doing a deep clean today and tomorrow – I can’t wait until I can do it again (the way I like)
KITCHEN… pretty clean
STUDIO… is mainly storage these days so nothing going on there
YARD… nothing much after the weekend storms, just too wet to do anything
BLOG… some recipe updating, future post planning and holiday post planning

CURRENTLY READING & TELEVISION / DVR

BIG BANG THEORY, YOUNG SHELDON
THE GOOD PLACE, AMERICAN HOUSEWIFE, GREAT NEWS
MACGYVER, SCORPION, BLINDSPOT, ORVILLE
NCIS, NCIS NEW ORLEANS and NCIS LA, CRIMINAL MINDS, S.W.A.T.
MADAM SECRETARY, DESIGNATED SURVIVOR, WISDOM OF THE CROWD
CHICAGO FIRE, CHICAGO PD, CHICAGO MED
BRAVE, VALOR, SEAL TEAM
LAW & ORDER SVU, BLUE BLOODS, HAWAII 5-0
Z NATION, WALKING DEAD, FLASH, DC LEGENDS, SUPERGIRL
THIS IS US, ONCE UPON A TIME, THE GOOD DOCTOR
GUY’S GROCERY GAMES, BEAT BOBBY FLAY, BOBBY AND DAMARIS, BAKED IN VERMONT, KIDS BAKING CHAMPIONSHIP, WORST COOKS IN AMERICA
WHEN CALLS THE HEART

MENU PLANS FOR THE WEEK

LOL, I get to “switch” diets midweek, but I have to tell you there isn’t much difference between them. And honestly I’m (well, my body) NOT ready for regular food despite the cravings for it.

SUCCESSFUL RECIPE LINKS FROM LAST WEEK

HEALTH & BEAUTY TIPS

HOMEMAKING/COOKING TIP

ON MY MIND / THINGS THAT ARE MAKING ME HAPPY

On Christmas eve at a party we go to every year that has tons of scrumptious food that I couldn’t eat, a friend asked me if I had hit the depression yet. I just stared at her for a few minutes and thought what are you talking about? Then it hit me, what I’ve been feeling is a form of PTSD, especially after the hospital stay from hell starting with a recovery nurse that deserves to be fired – I did speak with the patient liaison about the major mistreatment that occurred. But, the reality is MY life was completely upended while I slept through surgery. Decisions were made I was not a party to and when I woke up from surgery and was told EVERYTHING about how I lived would be completely different for the rest of my life I have to admit I didn’t even know how to process that information.

Fortunately, I refuse to get depressed. There are some bad days, but I am coping and will continue to think positively, take it as a challenge and adjust.

FAVORITE PHOTO FROM THE CAMERA

Hubby set Ava up to guard the stockings on Christmas Eve. 😀

INSPIRATION

Be sure to link up with Sandra at Diary of a Stay at Home Mom for Happy homemaker Monday, Terri at Darling Downs Diaries and with Laura at I’m an Organizing Junkie for Menu Plan Monday.

HAPPY HOMEMAKER & MENU PLAN MONDAY week 52 of 2017

I don’t even know if Sandra will be doing this meme today so I’m making this short and sweet today as it IS Christmas!
OUTSIDE MY WINDOW & THE WEATHER OUTSIDE
A storm and cold front moved in on Friday night and we dropped 20 degrees so it’s finally pleasant here. We are expecting the temperatures to stay low, but rain is expected for several days later this week.

ON THE BREAKFAST PLATE
Protein drink

AS I LOOK AROUND THE HOUSE / WEEKLY TO DO LIST & HOUSE PROJECTS

Nothing that won’t wait until Tuesday or so…

LAUNDRY… quite a few loads this week, towels, bedding and clothing
LIVING AREAS & KITCHEN… hubby is doing fairly good at keeping things relatively clean
STUDIO… is mainly storage these days so nothing going on there
YARD… nothing much after the weekend storms, just too wet to do anything
BLOG… some recipe updating, future post planning and holiday post planning

CURRENTLY READING & TELEVISION / DVR

BIG BANG THEORY, YOUNG SHELDON
THE GOOD PLACE, AMERICAN HOUSEWIFE, GREAT NEWS
MACGYVER, SCORPION, BLINDSPOT, ORVILLE
NCIS, NCIS NEW ORLEANS and NCIS LA, CRIMINAL MINDS, S.W.A.T.
MADAM SECRETARY, DESIGNATED SURVIVOR, WISDOM OF THE CROWD
CHICAGO FIRE, CHICAGO PD, CHICAGO MED
BRAVE, VALOR, SEAL TEAM
LAW & ORDER SVU, BLUE BLOODS, HAWAII 5-0
Z NATION, WALKING DEAD, FLASH, DC LEGENDS, SUPERGIRL
THIS IS US, ONCE UPON A TIME, THE GOOD DOCTOR
GUY’S GROCERY GAMES, BEAT BOBBY FLAY, BOBBY AND DAMARIS, BAKED IN VERMONT and the new KIDS BAKING CHAMPIONSHIP AS WELL AS the new WORST COOKS IN AMERICA begin soon
WHEN CALLS THE HEART

MENU PLANS FOR THE WEEK

Hubby is on his own still while I enter phase 3 of relearning to eat 😀

SUCCESSFUL RECIPE LINKS FROM LAST WEEK

These are recipes that have been waiting in cue to post, I’m definitely NOT back to cooking yet.

HEALTH & BEAUTY TIPS

HOMEMAKING/COOKING TIP

ON MY MIND / THINGS THAT ARE MAKING ME HAPPY

FAVORITE PHOTO FROM THE CAMERA

Sunset just before the storm a few hours later.

INSPIRATION

Be sure to link up with Sandra at Diary of a Stay at Home Mom for Happy homemaker Monday, Terri at Darling Downs Diaries and with Laura at I’m an Organizing Junkie for Menu Plan Monday.

HAPPY HOMEMAKER & MENU PLAN MONDAY week 51 of 2017

Oh my, it’s Monday again and just 1 week until Christmas! Are you ready? We’re as ready as we’re going to be since it is a quiet, just the 2 of us year. I’m finishing the Christmas cards this week and packages have shipped and will arrive at their various destinations during the week. We made it a very simple year! We ordered a “quarter ham” from HoneyBaked ham and will have carrots. I can have both (YAY!) as long as the ham is well minced and the carrots are soft enough to mush with my tongue! Christmas will be my fist “REAL” meal so we’ll see how that goes. Now onto the business we call Monday morning check-in and update here at our house.

OUTSIDE MY WINDOW & THE WEATHER OUTSIDE

Weather is still in the 60-70’s, such a nice reprieve for us. We had a pretty good storm Saturday into Sunday and the ground is still really wet! The week should be pleasant, but all I get is a walk each day and then back inside until we’re sure I have no new infections.

ON THE BREAKFAST PLATE

Green tea and protein drink

AS I LOOK AROUND THE HOUSE / WEEKLY TO DO LIST & HOUSE PROJECTS

Hubby is doing a GREAT job, but let’s face it, he’s a GUY and it will NEVER be up to my standards , but I’m trying really hard to go with the flow and follow doctor’s orders to do nothing.

LAUNDRY… quite a few loads this week, towels, bedding and clothing
LIVING AREAS… pretty good, considering
KITCHEN… needs work
STUDIO… is mainly storage these days so nothing going on there
YARD… nothing much after the weekend storms, just too wet to do anything
BLOG… some recipe updating, future post planning and holiday post planning

As for me, I am working on finishing the Christmas cards and updating the address book this week besides working on some blog compilation.

CURRENTLY READING & TELEVISION / DVR

I did start reading Ava Miles Dare Valley series again. I’m on book #10 HOME SWEET LOVE.

Quite a few shows have gone on winter hiatus already so I’m concentrating on Christmas movies and NETFLIX. I want to wean out the following list, but while I’m still in recuperation mode it will help as a diversion.

BIG BANG THEORY, YOUNG SHELDON
NCIS, NCIS NEW ORLEANS and NCIS LA, CRIMINAL MINDS, S.W.A.T.
MADAM SECRETARY, SCANDAL, DESIGNATED SURVIVOR
CHICAGO FIRE, CHICAGO PD, CHICAGO MED later this season
BRAVE, VALOR, SEAL TEAM
LAW & ORDER SVU, BLUE BLOODS, HAWAII 5-0
MACGYVER, SCORPION, BLINDSPOT, ORVILLE, WISDOM OF THE CROWD
Z NATION, WALKING DEAD, FLASH, DC LEGENDS, INHUMANS
THE GOOD PLACE, AMERICAN HOUSEWIFE, SPEECHLESS, GREAT NEWS
THIS IS US, ONCE UPON A TIME, THE GOOD DOCTOR
GUY’S GROCERY GAMES, BEAT BOBBY FLAY, BOBBY AND DAMARIS, EAT SLEEP BBQ, GRILL DADS

MENU PLANS FOR THE WEEK
This category is a sad and sore subject for me until about March. My surgery did not go as planned which is changing so much about food, but sure beats the alternative of being 6 foot under. Hubby is loving being able to eat what he calls bachelor food – S.O.S., chili, hot dogs, hamburger helper, etc… I told him NOT to get used to it though, as soon as I can muster enough energy to cook and off this blasted puree diet I am going to to take a hand at some Ramen Fusion. In the meantime I will be working on combining blogs with older recipes and developing newer recipes that encompass the new requirements. I look forward to previewing those rework recipes in a few months.

	MONDAY	TUESDAY	WEDNESDAY	THURSDAY	FRIDAY	SATURDAY	SUNDAY
2 times a day	3 ounces PROTEIN drink and GREEN Tea	3 ounces PROTEIN drink and GREEN Tea	3 ounces PROTEIN drink and GREEN Tea	3 ounces PROTEIN drink and GREEN Tea	3 ounces PROTEIN drink and GREEN Tea	3 ounces PROTEIN drink and GREEN Tea	3 ounces PROTEIN drink and GREEN Tea
2-4 times a day	4 ounces PUREED FOOD	4 ounces PUREED FOOD	4 ounces SCRAMBLED EGG	4 ounces SCRAMBLED EGG	4 ounces SCRAMBLED EGG	4 ounces SCRAMBLED EGG	4 ounces SCRAMBLED EGG
1 time a day	4 ounces vanilla yogurt	4 ounces vanilla yogurt	4 ounces vanilla yogurt	4 ounces vanilla yogurt	4 ounces vanilla yogurt	4 ounces vanilla yogurt	4 ounces vanilla yogurt
1 time a day	4 OUNCES PROTEIN SHAKE	4 OUNCES PROTEIN SHAKE	4 OUNCES PROTEIN SHAKE	4 OUNCES PROTEIN SHAKE	4 OUNCES PROTEIN SHAKE	4 OUNCES PROTEIN SHAKE	4 OUNCES PROTEIN SHAKE

SUCCESSFUL RECIPE LINKS FROM LAST WEEK

These are recipes that have been waiting in cue to post, I’m definitely NOT back to cooking yet.

TATER TOT GRILLED CHEESE BACON WAFFLE SANDWICH
PEANUT BUTTER FUDGE DROPS
SEA SALT AND CARAMEL RICE CRISPY TREATS
HEALTH, BEAUTY and HOMEMAKING/COOKING TIP

ON MY MIND / THINGS THAT ARE MAKING ME HAPPY

I do realize that I am sooooo blessed to be alive. I also realize that so many people are living with things so much worse than I am now. But, that said it is extremely hard to wake up from a “semi-simple” surgery to find that it not only turned complicated, but also life altering. This is just plain going to take some time to get used too! So, Please pardon my pity party.

FAVORITE PHOTO FROM THE CAMERA

Hubby got me a gingerbread house kit to make to occupy my time. I made this for the little boy next door and he seems to really LOVE it!

INSPIRATION

Certainly seemed like the best quote for how I feel this week.

Be sure to link up with Sandra at Diary of a Stay at Home Mom for Happy homemaker Monday, Terri at Darling Downs Diaries and with Laura at I’m an Organizing Junkie for Menu Plan Monday.

HAPPY HOMEMAKER & MENU PLAN MONDAY week 50 of 2017 DAY 5 of RECOVERY

I hope everyone had a wonderful week and are having a wonderful holiday season. I’m home from the hospital, but will address that in the Things On My Mind section. The weekend was quiet and VERY uneventful thankfully.

OUTSIDE MY WINDOW & THE WEATHER OUTSIDE

Temperatures are FINALLY down into the tolerable range. We even had to turn the heat on when we got home from the hospital on Friday. Friday was an ironic day here in southeast Texas. 7 years ago when I had my cancer surgery, we had a rare ice storm in the area. Then we moved away for several years, but came back to work on my grandparent’s house and are here again for this surgery. Ironically, we had SNOW last Thursday and Friday. yep I said snow! What a shock that was to wake up to in the middle of the night! I don’t get to go outside for another week give or take so am not yet enjoying the change in temperatures though.

ON THE BREAKFAST PLATE

3 ounces of peach high protein drink.

AS I LOOK AROUND THE HOUSE / WEEKLY TO DO LIST & HOUSE PROJECTS

Unfortunately for the next 90-120 days this is hubby’s category. I am not allowed to do anything or lift anything heavier than a bag of flour. Hubby is being a GREAT sport though and tending to my every need. Because of the risk of infection we are still having to wash every day. He’s just not used to doing it, the vacuuming, cleaning up after the cat and dog, etc…

LAUNDRY... quite a few loads this week, towels, bedding and clothing
LIVING AREAS... I did a serious deep clean just before surgery so am hoping this will get hubby through until March LOL NOT
KITCHEN… pretty clean
STUDIO… is mainly storage these days so nothing going on there
YARD… nothing much
BLOG… some recipe updating, future post planning and holiday post planning

CURRENTLY READING & TELEVISION / DVR

I haven’t done any reading since last Tuesday, but am hoping to do some later today and get back into a routine. I’m still trying to finish Ava Miles book #9 Calendar of New Beginnings.

BIG BANG THEORY and YOUNG SHELDON
NCIS, NCIS NEW ORLEANS and NCIS LA, CRIMINAL MINDS, S.W.A.T.
MADAM SECRETARY, SCANDAL, DESIGNATED SURVIVOR
CHICAGO FIRE, CHICAGO PD, CHICAGO MED later this season
BRAVE, VALOR, SEAL TEAM
LAW & ORDER SVU, BLUE BLOODS, HAWAII 5-0
MACGYVER, SCORPION, BLINDSPOT, ORVILLE, WISDOM OF THE CROWD
Z NATION, WALKING DEAD, FLASH, DC LEGENDS, INHUMANS
THE GOOD PLACE, AMERICAN HOUSEWIFE, SPEECHLESS, GREAT NEWS
THIS IS US, ONCE UPON A TIME, THE GOOD DOCTOR
GUY’S GROCERY GAMES, BEAT BOBBY FLAY, BOBBY AND DAMARIS

CRAFTS / PROJECTS

Probably nothing this week, but am hoping to start sketching the door series and tree of life next week.

MENU PLANS FOR THE WEEK

This category is a sad and sore subject for me until about March. My surgery did not go as planned which is changing so much about food, but sure beats the alternative of being 6 foot under. Hubby is loving being able to eat what he calls bachelor food – S.O.S., chili, hot dogs, hamburger helper, etc… I told him NOT to get used to it though, as soon as I can cook again we will be eating healthier than ever.

	MONDAY	TUESDAY	WEDNESDAY	THURSDAY	FRIDAY	SATURDAY	SUNDAY
2 times a day	3 ounces PROTEIN drink and GREEN Tea	3 ounces PROTEIN drink and GREEN Tea	3 ounces PROTEIN drink and GREEN Tea	3 ounces PROTEIN drink and GREEN Tea	3 ounces PROTEIN drink and GREEN Tea	3 ounces PROTEIN drink and GREEN Tea	3 ounces PROTEIN drink and GREEN Tea
2-4 times a day	4 ounces strained pureed soup	4 ounces strained pureed soup	4 ounces strained pureed soup	4 ounces strained pureed soup	4 ounces strained pureed soup	4 ounces strained pureed soup	4 ounces strained pureed soup
2 times a day	4 ounces vanilla yogurt	4 ounces vanilla yogurt	4 ounces vanilla yogurt	4 ounces vanilla yogurt	4 ounces vanilla yogurt	4 ounces vanilla yogurt	4 ounces vanilla yogurt
2 times a day	4 ounces jell-o	4 ounces jell-o	4 ounces jell-o	4 ounces jell-o	4 ounces jell-o	4 ounces jell-o	4 ounces jell-o

SUCCESSFUL RECIPE LINKS FROM LAST WEEK

These are recipes that have been waiting in cue to post, I’m definitely NOT back to cooking yet.

HEALTH & BEAUTY TIPS

HOMEMAKING/COOKING TIP

ON MY MIND / THINGS THAT ARE MAKING ME HAPPY

You know the old Yiddish proverb, Man Plans, God Laughs? If not, you should learn it just to keep yourself sane.

So, as many of you know I have been suffering from some health issues the past few years, especially this last year. To give you a quick background when I was 24 I was diagnosed with Systemic Lupus and not doing well. Several months into the disease I went to my rhuematlogist, held out my hand with 32 pills in it and said “I can’t live this way”. She agreed and we moved into treating the disease and it side affects like Fibromyalgia with diet or better said, lack of diet. I immediately gave up ALL steroids, preservatives, splendas, aspartames, diet food of any kind, non GMO food, canned “food”, boxed “food”fast food as a whole and started perimeter shopping and scratch cooking with “REAL” foods. My life immediately improved.

Fast forward many years to 2011 and my oncologist claiming this change in food prep and eating for all those years saved my life when she was able to lift out a twice torsioned (wrapped around the ovary 2 times) volleyball sized ovarian tumor from my body intact and I have been NED (no evidence of disease) for almost 7 years since. She decided it was because the cancer had nothing else to feed on in my body except itself. I knew I was extremely blessed when after 6 more months of testing everything and everywhere to make sure it was the only tumor, that they found none.

Fast forward another year and I’m having problems with the hiatal hernia that my cancer doctor found, but left alone. Enter a new gastroenterologist who was able to fix the hiatal hernia and shredded esophogaus with a Nissen Fundoplication (2012). This didn’t alter what I ate except in the beginning 2 months, but did alter how much and how often I ate. I also gave up 90% of bread – just filled me up too fast.

Fast forward 9 months (2013) and the mesh from the Nissen Fundoplication failed requiring a revision surgery and another period of liquid food adjustment.

Fast forward to 2016 and the E.Coli bacterial infection that landed me in the hospital with a concussion because I lost consciousness and fell after becoming violently ill. For the next 13 months I was tested by neurology and cardiology for my symptoms before they finally handed me off to gastroenterology which had a HUGE wait time so my wonderful primary doctor got tired of waiting and began doing logical testing on her own. She was the one who found the hiatal hernia (again) and referred me to the surgeon. His testing was further delayed another 6 weeks past their normal backlog by Hurricane Harvey. I love my surgeon and his immediate staff as well as my hospital nurses Ericah and Lexi. Other than that the hospital will be getting a not so favorable review from me. The recovery nurse should NEVER have contact with human beings and the respiratory therapist is negligent with he lack of follow through and the nurse’s aides need to be trained in patient care and helping.

We went into last Wednesday believing he was going to be able to fix the fix on the revision surgery. Unfortunately this is where the Yiddish proverb enters. I had planned food and EVERYTHING on the fix of the fix, but he was unable to correct the issue and had to make a drastic decision to do a bypass. This is a HUGE DRASTIC LIFE CHANGE for anybody, but for me there is very little information written on it for someone who isn’t doing it for weight loss. I mean EVERYTHING written about the subject is for people who need to lose significant amounts of weight. The diet is strict and I can live with that, but the recovery time has now doubled! Once recovery time is over I can live with the longterm lifetime diet and special vitamins as it is high protein, lowfat and REALLY healthy which is right up my alley anyway.

So here we are on day 5 of 90-120 days of nothingness except keeping a food and medicine journal. I cannot tell you how much ALL of your thoughts and prayers have meant to me and are seeing seen me through this ordeal. There is 1 good thing. I did want to lose about 15 pounds and now that is going to be a given. 😀

FAVORITE PHOTO FROM THE CAMERA

I was able to get most of my elf on the shelf photos taken before surgery and definitely have a few favorites. 😀

INSPIRATION

Be sure to link up with Sandra at Diary of a Stay at Home Mom for Happy homemaker Monday, Terri at Darling Downs Diaries and with Laura at I’m an Organizing Junkie for Menu Plan Monday.

HAPPY HOMEMAKER & MENU PLAN MONDAY week 49 of 2017

I hope everyone had an awesome week. Mine was busy with surgery prep and trying to get things done in advance so hubby has very little to do while I’m in recovery mode.

OUTSIDE MY WINDOW & THE WEATHER OUTSIDE

We had a thunderstorm yesterday that rivaled Hurricane Harvey and has knocked out my TV and internet so I’m using the neighbors to finish this post. At&T after a heated discussion did promise a technician between 4 and 8 this afternoon. Unfortunately the 2 dozen Christmas movies I had taped on the DVR to watch during recovery are now toast as well as so we will be calling the customer loyalty number and having a chat about reliability since this is the 4th time in 12 months we have been without service or lost all our shows already recorded.

The weather itself is gray, rainy and still quite WARM. 80° in December is unbearable as far as I’m concerned. It is supposed to storm today and tomorrow and then drop down into the 60’s on Wednesday.

ON THE BREAKFAST PLATE

Protein drink and green tea

AS I LOOK AROUND THE HOUSE / WEEKLY TO DO LIST & HOUSE PROJECTS

LAUNDRY… quite a few loads today, towels, bedding and clothing
LIVING AREAS & KITCHEN… plan on doing a deep clean today and tomorrow in preparation of not being able to do anything for 60 days and not wanting hubby to have to do it.
STUDIO… is mainly storage these days so nothing going on there
YARD… nothing
BLOG… some recipe updating, future post planning and holiday post planning

CURRENTLY READING & TELEVISION / DVR

I’m reading book #9 Calendar of New Beginnings.

BIG BANG THEORY and the new YOUNG SHELDON when it returns later this week
NCIS, NCIS NEW ORLEANS and NCIS LA, CRIMINAL MINDS, S.W.A.T. starts this week
MADAM SECRETARY, SCANDAL, DESIGNATED SURVIVOR
CHICAGO FIRE, CHICAGO PD, CHICAGO MED later this season
BRAVE, VALOR, SEAL TEAM
LAW & ORDER SVU, BLUE BLOODS, HAWAII 5-0
MACGYVER, SCORPION, BLINDSPOT, ORVILLE, WISDOM OF THE CROWD
Z NATION, WALKING DEAD, FLASH, DC LEGENDS, INHUMANS
THE GOOD PLACE, AMERICAN HOUSEWIFE, SPEECHLESS, GREAT NEWS
THIS IS US, ONCE UPON A TIME, THE GOOD DOCTOR
GUY’S GROCERY GAMES, BEAT BOBBY FLAY, BOBBY AND DAMARIS

CRAFTS / PROJECTS

Not this week, but maybe next week if I’m feeling up to it, Ill be working on a series of door paintings (possibly mixed media) which I hope to show you soon as well as a mixed media tree of life.

MENU PLANS FOR THE WEEK

	MONDAY	TUESDAY	WEDNESDAY	THURSDAY	FRIDAY	SATURDAY	SUNDAY
BREAKFAST	FRUIT & COFFEE	SCRAMBLED EGGS	FRUIT SMOOTHIE	FRUIT & COFFEE	SCRAMBLED EGGS	GUY FOOD & LIQUID DIET	GUY FOOD & LIQUID DIET
LUNCH	FRUIT & CHEESE	SOUP	MEAT ROLL-UPS	SALAD	MEAT & CHEESE	GUY FOOD & LIQUID DIET	GUY FOOD & LIQUID DIET
DINNER	GUY FOOD & LIQUID DIET	GUY FOOD & LIQUID DIET	GUY FOOD & LIQUID DIET	GUY FOOD & LIQUID DIET	GUY FOOD & LIQUID DIET	GUY FOOD & LIQUID DIET	GUY FOOD & LIQUID DIET
DESSERT

SUCCESSFUL RECIPE LINKS FROM LAST WEEK

HEALTH & BEAUTY TIPS

HOMEMAKING/COOKING TIP

I did A LOT of pre-prep during Thanksgiving week, but the refrigerator still only had so much space. By staking and using the appropriate sized plates in between you can stack and stack and stack to fit it ALL in.

ON MY MIND / THINGS THAT ARE MAKING ME HAPPY

I’m looking forward to starting recovery later this week with surgery finally behind me. Because of surgery I was on the war path to get things accomplished so hubby didn’t have to. I’m happy to say all my Christmas packages are wrapped and packaged for shipping. YAY something good is coming from the rush to get ready for surgery.

FAVORITE PHOTO FROM THE CAMERA

Saturday night’s FULL Moon was just GORGEOUS!

INSPIRATION

Be sure to link up with Sandra at Diary of a Stay at Home Mom for Happy homemaker Monday, Terri at Darling Downs Diaries and with Laura at I’m an Organizing Junkie for Menu Plan Monday.

HAPPY HOMEMAKER & MENU PLAN MONDAY week 48 of 2017

I hope you had as great a Thanksgiving as we did. It was a day full of relaxation, food and football. It was a small gathering this year for us. My uncle came for dinner and brought a yummy apple pie with Marble Slab Vanilla Ice Cream – YUMMY! The weekend was quiet – we NEVER do Black Friday anyway, but being in isolation in the house made it seem quieter than normal. I did tape AND watch several Christmas movies as well as eat some yummy leftovers which are in my opinion the best part of Thanksgiving.

When I was a kid, the Friday after Thanksgiving was the day we put up our Christmas tree, ate turkey sandwiches and started wrapping Christmas presents. Well, this year we put up decorations, ate HOT turkey sandwiches and relaxed. Living in a BIG city this year I avoid shopping on Mondays, Fridays and weekends so it was nice to have a LONG relaxing weekend.

OUTSIDE MY WINDOW & THE WEATHER OUTSIDE

While it has been more pleasant recently there are still a few days this week projected in the 80’s with higher humidity, but I have realized this is my current norm and won’t change until we move.

ON THE BREAKFAST PLATE

Pomegranates and cucumber salad with Green Tea

AS I LOOK AROUND THE HOUSE / WEEKLY TO DO LIST & HOUSE PROJECTS

LAUNDRY… quite a few loads this week, towels, bedding and clothing
LIVING AREAS… plan on doing a deep clean today and tomorrow
KITCHEN… part of the deep clean today
STUDIO… is mainly storage pending our move so nothing going on there
YARD… nothing much after the weekend storms, just too wet to do anything
ERRANDS…hospital pre-op blood and xrays Wednesday, grocery shopping, drugstore and Target
BLOG… some recipe updating, future post planning and BLOGMAS post planning

CURRENTLY READING & TELEVISION / DVR

I finally finished reading the Bridge to a Better Life by Ava Miles book 8 in her Dare Valley Series. I will continue her series with book #9 Calendar of New Beginnings as I’m enjoying it, but for a bit of change I switched over to Marie Force’s Green Mountain #8 Can’t Buy Me Love.

BIG BANG THEORY and the new YOUNG SHELDON
NCIS, NCIS NEW ORLEANS and NCIS LA, CRIMINAL MINDS, S.W.A.T.
MADAM SECRETARY, SCANDAL, DESIGNATED SURVIVOR
CHICAGO FIRE, CHICAGO PD, CHICAGO MED
BRAVE, VALOR, SEAL TEAM
LAW & ORDER SVU, BLUE BLOODS, HAWAII 5-0
MACGYVER, SCORPION, BLINDSPOT, ORVILLE, WISDOM OF THE CROWD
Z NATION, WALKING DEAD, FLASH, DC LEGENDS, INHUMANS
THE GOOD PLACE, AMERICAN HOUSEWIFE, SPEECHLESS, GREAT NEWS
THIS IS US, ONCE UPON A TIME, THE GOOD DOCTOR
GUY’S GROCERY GAMES, BEAT BOBBY FLAY, BOBBY AND DAMARIS, GUY’S RANCH

MENU PLANS FOR THE WEEK

	MONDAY	TUESDAY	WEDNESDAY	THURSDAY	FRIDAY	SATURDAY	SUNDAY
BREAKFAST	FRUIT & COFFEE	SCRAMBLED EGGS	FRUIT SMOOTHIE	FRUIT & COFFEE	SCRAMBLED EGGS	TATER TOT WAFFLE BACON CHEESE SANDWICHES	QUICHE
LUNCH	FRUIT & CHEESE	SOUP	MEAT ROLL-UPS	SALAD	MEAT & CHEESE	C.O.R.N.	C.O.R.N.
DINNER	TURKEY TETTRAZINI	HOT TURKEY SANDWICHES	PORK CHOPS & STUFFING	CHILI DOGS and DEVILED POTATO SALAD	MONTE CRISTO SANDWICHES	MEATLOAF and PARMESAN STACKERS	C.O.R.N.
DESSERT

SUCCESSFUL RECIPE LINKS FROM LAST WEEK

HOMEMAKING/COOKING TIP

ON MY MIND / THINGS THAT ARE MAKING ME HAPPY

10 days until surgery – FINALLY! Who would think I’d actually be looking forward to such a thing? After the past 13 months I will be so relieved to have it over that I’m actually glad it’s almost here! I’m trying to get things done a month ahead to make life easier for hubby ESPECIALLY with Christmas in the middle!.

We mixed and match our recliners (since the backs come off so easy these days) so I would have the most comfortable parts in the bedroom since I’ll still be sleeping in a recliner for the next several weeks.

FAVORITE PHOTO FROM THE CAMERA

On of the best things about Thanksgiving is the leftovers! INSPIRATION

Be sure to link up with Sandra at Diary of a Stay at Home Mom for Happy homemaker Monday, Terri at Darling Downs Diaries and with Laura at I’m an Organizing Junkie for Menu Plan Monday.

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HAPPY HOMEMAKER & MENU PLAN MONDAY week 47 of 2017

I hope you all had a great week and weekend. Mine was so so – just getting things done that will help hubby while I’m down, but I’m not expecting much excitement until after surgery.

This can be a stressful week for many, so let’s start it with a laugh! Just remember that a turkey is JUST a BIG chicken. I’m going to do my Thanksgiving shopping this morning and then won’t eave the house again!

OUTSIDE MY WINDOW & THE WEATHER OUTSIDE

We finally got a bit of a “COLD” front (at least for here) through yesterday that has lowered temperatures to the fall level finally. I don’t have many hopes for a real winter here, but would like it if the temperatures at least get down to the 60’s for a high and stay there for more than 4 days!

ON THE BREAKFAST PLATE

A banana, tangerine and coffee

AS I LOOK AROUND THE HOUSE / WEEKLY TO DO LIST & HOUSE PROJECTS

LAUNDRY… quite a few loads this week, towels, bedding and clothing – doctor has me washing things much more often trying to eliminate infection possibilities. I have to say washing the linens every other day is getting tiresome. I never wear clothes more than one day, but sheets and towels usually get 3-4 days or so before changing them.
LIVING AREAS… plan on doing a deep clean today and tomorrow for Thanksgiving
KITCHEN… pretty clean, but with starting Thanksgiving prep tomorrow that WILL change! I do the veggie chopping and making the croutons for the stuffing on Tuesday and baking on Wednesday so I’m not doing it all on Thursday – makes it so much more stress free! That way I can watch the parade and enjoy my coffee!
STUDIO… is mainly storage these days so nothing going on there
YARD… nothing much for hubby and nothing for me at all
BLOG… still doing some recipe updating, future post planning and holiday posts scheduled, I’m also working on my ideas for Ava the elf

CURRENTLY READING & TELEVISION / DVR

BIG BANG THEORY and the new YOUNG SHELDON
NCIS, NCIS NEW ORLEANS and NCIS LA, CRIMINAL MINDS, S.W.A.T. ??
MADAME SECRETARY, SCANDAL, DESIGNATED SURVIVOR
CHICAGO FIRE, CHICAGO PD, CHICAGO MED
BRAVE, VALOR, SEAL TEAM
LAW & ORDER SVU, BLUE BLOODS, HAWAII 5-0
MACGYVER, SCORPION, BLINDSPOT, ORVILLE, WISDOM OF THE CROWD
Z NATION, WALKING DEAD, STRANGER THINGS, FLASH, DC LEGENDS, INHUMANS
THE GOOD PLACE, AMERICAN HOUSEWIFE, SPEECHLESS, GREAT NEWS
THIS IS US, ONCE UPON A TIME, THE GOOD DOCTOR, LONGMIRE
GUY’S GROCERY GAMES, BEAT BOBBY FLAY, BOBBY AND DAMARIS, GUY’S RANCH

MENU PLANS FOR THE WEEK

	MONDAY	TUESDAY	WEDNESDAY	THURSDAY	FRIDAY	SATURDAY	SUNDAY
BREAKFAST	FRUIT & COFFEE	SCRAMBLED EGGS	FRUIT SMOOTHIE	FRUIT & COFFEE	WAFFLES & BACON	SHIRRED EGGS	PANCAKES
LUNCH	FRUIT & CHEESE	SOUP	MEAT ROLL-UPS	SALAD	C.O.R.N.	C.O.R.N.	C.O.R.N.
DINNER	SWEET & SOUR CHICKEN and SCALLION RICE recipe will post soon	PORK MARSALA recipe will post soon	TUNA NOODLE CASSEROLE recipe will post soon and SALAD	SEE MENU BELOW	C.O.R.N.	C.O.R.N.	C.O.R.N.
DESSERT			MOLASSES CRINKLES recipe will post soon				REINDEER NIBBLES recipe will post soon

SUCCESSFUL RECIPE LINKS FROM LAST WEEK

HEALTH & BEAUTY TIPS

HOMEMAKING/COOKING TIP

ON MY MIND / THINGS THAT ARE MAKING ME HAPPY

Only more 16 days until surgery and I can’t be happier! I need to get this behind me and on the road to recovery! I ended up with yet another infection this past week and have been put on house “isolation” for the most part until surgery. Primarily I’m staying away from school children and elderly that may be sick or contagious, washing my hands A LOT, showering A LOT and am on 3 new eye drops to combat the latest issue. I’ve already been in for 2 weeks other than doctor appointments and am looking forward to get out and doing the Thanksgiving shopping this morning and after that will only leave the house on the day of pre-op at the hospital and then on the day of surgery. It’s getting old being so sequestered, but has become a necessary evil. We even had to cancel our trip to Santa’s Wonderland. 🙁 There’s always next year. 😀

FAVORITE PHOTO FROM THE CAMERA

I got hubby a new stocking this year and it is really cute. Mine is an UGG red, white and green plaid that I really like too.

Then, there is Gunner, at 15 3/4 he’s still trudging along, but spends most his time chasing rabbits in his sleep in his favorite bed these days.

INSPIRATION

Be sure to link up with Sandra at Diary of a Stay at Home Mom for Happy homemaker Monday, Terri at Darling Downs Diaries and with Laura at I’m an Organizing Junkie for Menu Plan Monday.

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HAPPY HOMEMAKER & MENU PLAN MONDAY week 46 of 2017

GOOD MORNING. I can’t believe it is Monday already again! It really seems like the weeks go faster the closer we get to the end of the year. We had a quiet weekend at home except for the few hours I was out with the girls for a yearly craft fair jaunt and lunch.

There are some friends of a friend that are becoming shut-ins for health reasons so at lunch we discussed who would make what for the Thanksgiving meal that is being taken to them. I got cranberry sauce YUMMY and then started the who is making what list for Christmas Eve at Patty’s house after church. I got veggies which I actually like to make, but no one else wants to sign up for. I’m going to make my southern green beans and seagram’s honey glazed carrots. All of these recipes will be posted after Thanksgiving as I’m making them then also and need new pictures.

I made the cranberry sauce this weekend and froze it so it will be easily transported in this horrible heat we are still having. I also got my Thanksgiving menu together (it’s only 10 days away) so we could get the shopping done later this week before the crowds.

OUTSIDE MY WINDOW & THE WEATHER OUTSIDE

The weather is better than it has been, but NO WHERE near where it should be for mid November. I am so over the 80 degree temperatures!

ON THE BREAKFAST PLATE

Fresh fruit and coffee

AS I LOOK AROUND THE HOUSE / WEEKLY TO DO LIST & HOUSE PROJECTS

Between now and Thanksgiving I’m working hard every day to get as much manual labor done as possible and super stocking so hubby doesn’t have to do much shopping, something he REALLY hates to do and is really not good at LOL. He will be able to do the laundry, vacuuming, dishes etc… with little effort, but I want to make it as easy as possible on him.

LAUNDRY… quite a few loads this week, towels, bedding and clothing
LIVING AREAS… plan on doing a REALLY deep clean today and tomorrow
KITCHEN… pretty clean really
STUDIO… is mainly storage these days so nothing going on there
YARD… nothing much
BLOG… some recipe updating, future post planning and holiday post planning
ERRANDS… blood work and EKG for surgery – never got them done last week with getting sick

CURRENTLY READING & TELEVISION / DVR

I finally finished reading the Bridge to a Better Life by Ava Miles in her Dare Valley Series. I will finish her series as I’m enjoying it, but for a bit of change I switched over to Jana Deleon’s Happily Everlasting series and am on book #2, Once Hunted, Twice Shy.

The Holiday Baking Championship started this past week and I’m enjoying that.

BIG BANG THEORY, YOUNG SHELDON
NCIS, NCIS NEW ORLEANS and NCIS LA, CRIMINAL MINDS, S.W.A.T.
MADAM SECRETARY, SCANDAL, DESIGNATED SURVIVOR
CHICAGO FIRE, CHICAGO PD, CHICAGO MED on the 21st
BRAVE, VALOR, SEAL TEAM
LAW & ORDER SVU, BLUE BLOODS, HAWAII 5-0
MACGYVER, SCORPION, BLINDSPOT, ORVILLE, WISDOM OF THE CROWD
Z NATION, WALKING DEAD, FLASH, DC LEGENDS, INHUMANS
THE GOOD PLACE, AMERICAN HOUSEWIFE, SPEECHLESS, GREAT NEWS
THIS IS US, ONCE UPON A TIME, THE GOOD DOCTOR
GUY’S GROCERY GAMES, BEAT BOBBY FLAY, BOBBY AND DAMARIS, GUY’S BIG PROJECT

MENU PLANS FOR THE WEEK

	MONDAY	TUESDAY	WEDNESDAY	THURSDAY	FRIDAY	SATURDAY	SUNDAY
BREAKFAST	FRUIT & COFFEE	SCRAMBLED EGGS	FRUIT SMOOTHIE	FRUIT & COFFEE	SCRAMBLED EGGS	PANCAKES and BACON	HAM and EGG OMELETS
LUNCH	FRUIT & CHEESE	SOUP	MEAT ROLL-UPS	SALAD	MEAT & CHEESE	C.O.R.N.	??
DINNER	OLD FASHIONED TUNA NOODLE CASSEROLE	BURGERS with GREEN TOMATO MAYO	DEVILED BEEF TENDERS and PARMESAN MASHED POTATOES	BRANDING IRON MEATBALLS	SMOTHERED STEAK TIPS and ROASTED ROOT VEGGIES	SWEET & SOUR CHICKEN with SCALLION RICE	PORK MARSALA with BUTTERED EGG NOODLES
DESSERT

SUCCESSFUL RECIPE LINKS FROM LAST WEEK

HEALTH & BEAUTY TIPS

HOMEMAKING/COOKING TIP

ON MY MIND / THINGS THAT ARE MAKING ME HAPPY

I’m doing a countdown to surgery. Just 23 days to go. It will be a LONG 23 days though. I ended up with laryngitis and bronchitis last week and the doctor and I agreed upon a self-imposed “isolation” to keep me healthy enough for surgery. We had been out of town the week before a few days and she believes coming back here with the higher humidity was what did me in. Then last night I discovered new eye infection similar to the last and put in for an emergency referral last night and am waiting on the call to go in to the specialist. It wasn’t this bad last time and he almost put me in the hospital so I am a little scared this time. Something I’m allergic to or exposed to is biting me maybe. Since the last time I have been washing the towels and sheets every two days as it is. Hubby is convinced that I picked up something working on this HOUSE FROM HELL that I have just never been able to get rid of because of my compromised immunity. I’m beginning to think he may be right.

Even if the doctor hadn’t suggested it, hubby was going to impose an isolation because of my compromised immunity. I did go to a favorite craft fair on Saturday and came home with a slight fever and coughing, so have acquiesced to hubby and agreed to a more stringent “isolation”. Insert BIG SIGH here! At this point I will do whatever is necessary to get me through surgery with no more delays. I AM READY TO RECLAIM MY LIFE!

FAVORITE PHOTO FROM THE CAMERA

We haven’t had much rain, but sure have had pretty skies!

INSPIRATION

Be sure to link up with Sandra at Diary of a Stay at Home Mom for Happy homemaker Monday, Terri at Darling Downs Diaries and with Laura at I’m an Organizing Junkie for Menu Plan Monday.

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HAPPY HOMEMAKER & MENU PLAN MONDAY week 45 of 2017

I hope EVERYONE had a GREAT week. Ours was busy with several days of traveling while we explored where to go from here. We’re pretty sure we have decided on our future home town, there are just a few things that need to fall into place first!

It’s really hard to make a move, but it’s even harder when you’re trying to check everything off your list to meet your needs. We’ve been struggling with this decision. One of the things I finally ended up asking hubby in every new place we have looked is “If we won the lottery tomorrow would you still want to live here?”. We both have some bucket list places we’d LIKE to live, but when reality shines in we use a more practical check list, things like churches, grocery stores, restaurants, weather… So, we’re still pulling it all together, but pending any major changes are 90% decided.

We have to get through my surgery and recovery, sell the house, finish packing… but have faith everything will fall into place the way it is supposed to.

OUTSIDE MY WINDOW & THE WEATHER OUTSIDE

Unfortunately, we are starting the week out miserable here – high 80’s and humid. It is supposed to be in the 70’s after Wednesday and the humidity will go down a bit. Have I mentioned I HATE heat AND humidity!

ON THE BREAKFAST PLATE

Apples and blueberries with coffee

AS I LOOK AROUND THE HOUSE / WEEKLY TO DO LIST & HOUSE PROJECTS

LAUNDRY… quite a few loads this week, towels, bedding and clothing
LIVING AREAS… plan on doing a deep clean later this week
KITCHEN… right now is pretty clean
STUDIO… is mainly storage these days so nothing going on there. I do have some correspondence to catch up on along with some cathartic letter writing.
YARD… nothing much
BLOG… some recipe updating, future post planning and holiday post planning
ERRANDS… blood work and EKG for surgery

CURRENTLY READING & TELEVISION / DVR

I’m still reading the Bridge to a Better Life by Ava Miles in her Dare Valley Series. Just can’t seem to stay awake long enough to finish a book.

The Holiday Baking Championship STARTS ON THE 9th.

BIG BANG THEORY and the new YOUNG SHELDON when it returns later this week
NCIS, NCIS NEW ORLEANS and NCIS LA, CRIMINAL MINDS, S.W.A.T. starts this week
MADAM SECRETARY, SCANDAL, DESIGNATED SURVIVOR
CHICAGO FIRE, CHICAGO PD, CHICAGO MED later this season
BRAVE, VALOR, SEAL TEAM
LAW & ORDER SVU, BLUE BLOODS, HAWAII 5-0
MACGYVER, SCORPION, BLINDSPOT, ORVILLE, WISDOM OF THE CROWD
Z NATION, WALKING DEAD, FLASH, DC LEGENDS, INHUMANS
THE GOOD PLACE, AMERICAN HOUSEWIFE, SPEECHLESS, GREAT NEWS
THIS IS US, ONCE UPON A TIME, THE GOOD DOCTOR
GUY’S GROCERY GAMES, BEAT BOBBY FLAY, BOBBY AND DAMARIS, GUY’S BIG PROJECT

MENU PLANS FOR THE WEEK

	MONDAY	TUESDAY	WEDNESDAY	THURSDAY	FRIDAY	SATURDAY	SUNDAY
BREAKFAST	FRUIT & COFFEE	SCRAMBLED EGGS	FRUIT SMOOTHIE	FRUIT & COFFEE	SCRAMBLED EGGS	QUICHE LORRAINE	BACON & EGGS
LUNCH	FRUIT & CHEESE	C.O.R.N.	MEAT ROLL-UPS	SALAD	MEAT & CHEESE	C.O.R.N.	??
DINNER	TOMATO BOURBON SOUP	BACON WRAPPED CHICKEN SKEWERS	7 LAYER SALAD	CHICKEN PARMESAN CASSEROLE	BAKED ORANGE CHICKEN	PORK MARSALA	CHICKEN POT PIES
DESSERT			GOOEY CARAMEL GINGERSNAPS

SUCCESSFUL RECIPE LINKS FROM LAST WEEK

STUFFED MARSALA CHICKEN
HASH BROWN HAM & CHEESE QUICHE
ITALIAN STUFFED CHICKEN
CHILI DOG CASSEROLE
MAGIC DUST SLAM DUNK HOT WINGS
CHILI MAC CASSEROLE
CARAMEL STUFFED AUTUMN SNICKERDOODLES

HEALTH & BEAUTY TIPS

HOMEMAKING/COOKING TIP

ON MY MIND / THINGS THAT ARE MAKING ME HAPPY

I was very excited when the doctor and scheduler told me surgery would be in 2-3 weeks, probably November 17th. So, I was VERY disappointed when the scheduler called back last Tuesday and said that because of the length of the surgery scheduling was proving difficult with the hospital and doctor’s schedules and that surgery was now December 6th. So on the one hand I won’t miss Thanksgiving, but now I will miss Christmas dinner.

The worst part is that I have to avoid crowds and children especially between now and surgery and then again after for a couple months because of my compromised immunity and too high a risk for infection. I’m sick now and going in to see the doctor later today as it is and can’t even tell you where I picked it up. It really sucks when you have a compromised immunity and have to fight so hard just to make it day to day without getting sick. My neighbor, a nurse, has the theory that my body just wasn’t built for humidity and that things will get better after we leave here. I pray she’s right.

We have a super old dog and I recently had to start grinding his dry portion of food into smaller pieces so he could eat better. At first it was weird and made me think of that old Charlton Heston movie, Soylent Green as I ground the chunks into powder, but then a light bulb dawned over me and I realized my NINJA is about to be my best friend as I recover. After I am allowed to eat semi soft foods I will still be able to cook for hubby and get my flavor too by running my meals through the NINJA!

FAVORITE PHOTO FROM THE CAMERA

I took several photos while we were gone, but many didn’t turn out as well as I’d liked. This first one was the sky when we got home.

These Oklahoma cotton fields called to me A LOT. I didn’t even realize cotton grew in Oklahoma.

I just LOVE old architecture and this old building on the town square was really neat. I just wish the sun had been shining.

I did get one for Sandra though 😀

INSPIRATION

Be sure to link up with Sandra at Diary of a Stay at Home Mom for Happy homemaker Monday, Terri at Darling Downs Diaries and with Laura at I’m an Organizing Junkie for Menu Plan Monday.

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Category: HEALTH & BEAUTY TIPS