MEMES & LINK PARTIES – Page 103 – Chasing MY Life WHEREVER it Leads ME

HAPPY HOMEMAKER & MENU PLAN MONDAY week 23 of 2018

Good morning my friends. We have arrived at our first interim stop and I am beginning to feel a bit human again. Things have not gone as planned with the move, but will be okay eventually, just a bit stressful getting to this point. 😀

We’ll be here about 10 days and then head to our next destination via a few stops to see family and friends along the way. We will be there for about 3 months and that is where I am praying that the gym and pool will be my saving grace at getting my strength and energy back.

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 & WHAT I’M WEARING – The weather is GORGEOUS! It’s supposed to be in the mid 70’s today and guess what? There is no horrible Texas humidity 😀 I have to go to town and get the oil changed so am wearing levis and a blue print blouse instead of the normal summer shorts.

ON THE BREAKFAST PLATE – Green tea and peach yogurt

ON MY MIND / THINGS THAT ARE MAKING ME HAPPY

my new InstaGram hashtag is #HappinessIsSouthEastTexasInYourRearViewMirror which makes me extremely happy. As for the rest of it, we’re going to just take it one day at a time for awhile
I also completed my final post (Day 948 aka 2 1/2 years in Purgatory) for the HOUSE from HELL if you are so inclined to read – it is a bit long, but all encompassing.

FAVORITE PHOTO FROM THE CAMERA – we made a stop at Cadillac Ranch – wow what a change from when I was there in the early 90’s! I can’t believe how much trash was left behind!

INSPIRATION

SOMETHING INTERESTING I WATCHED – I enjoyed the Celebrity Boss episode about Deion Sanders reaching out to help at risk youth

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

Nothing much this week other than some laundry as we are at mom’s house. Hubby does have a couple dental appointments and the moving truck should be here at some point so things can be loaded into storage before we head out for the desert.

CURRENTLY READING AND ON MY WAIT PILE

I’M READING Debra Clopton’s Windswept Bay series – Book #5 Holding Out for Love

IN THE WAIT PILE TO READ

BARBARA FREETHY’S PERILOUS TRUST

WHAT IS ON THE DVR OR LIST TO WATCH

COMEDIES – Big Bang Theory, Young Sheldon, Life in Pieces, The Good Place, American Housewife

MILITARY, POLITICAL & CRIME DRAMAS and a couple that qualify as comedies – NCIS, NCIS New Orleans and NCIS LA, Criminal Minds, Wisdon 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 & REALITY – The Good Doctor, This Is Us, The Resident, the Amazing Race, Dancing With the Stars, American Ninja Warrior, Reverie, Instinct, Ransom, Taken

SYFY – Z Nation, the Walking Dead, Fear the Walking Dead, Flash, Supergirl, DC Legends, Orville, Once Upon a Time, The X-Files, Supernatural, Midnight Texas

COOKING – Guy’s Grocery Games, Beat Bobby Flay, Worst Cooks in America, Bobby & Damaris, Kid’s Baking Championship, Master Chef Jr., Master Chef, Southern at Heart

WHAT’S IN THE CRAFT BASKET – EVERYTHING is packed so there will be no crafting until late June or so when I start the Christmas gifts and cards while we are in the desert.

HEALTH & BEAUTY TIPS

HOMEMAKING/COOKING TIP

Use 1 gallon boiling water per pound of pasta. Only place pasta in a rolling boil of water (uncovered). Add salt to the water to speed up the boiling process. Add oil to water prevent pasta from sticking. Pasta should be checked ~3 times during the cooking process. Pasta should be cooked to ‘al dente’ (to the tooth). Check the pasta between your thumb and forefinger. Pasta should double in size. Fresh pasta requires less cooking time than dry pasta. Fresh pasta contains less starch than dry pasta. Rinse the dry pasta with cold water to stop cooking and remove excess starch. Rinse the pasta in warm water to bring it back up to temperature.

MENU PLANS FOR THE WEEK

	BREAKFAST	SNACK	LUNCH	DINNER	SNACK/DESSERT
MONDAY	CHEERIOS, SMALL BANANA & GREEN TEA	PROTEIN DRINK	GRILLED CHICKEN BREAST, TUNA SALAD OR ??	APPLE CIDER PORK CHOPS with APPLE SLAW	PROTEIN SHAKE
TUESDAY	PEACH YOGURT & GREEN TEA	PROTEIN DRINK	GRILLED CHICKEN BREAST, TUNA SALAD OR ??	SEAFOOD SALAD & PARMESAN ROLLS	PROTEIN SHAKE
WEDNESDAY	CHEERIOS, SMALL BANANA & GREEN TEA	PROTEIN DRINK	GRILLED CHICKEN BREAST, TUNA SALAD OR ??	??	PROTEIN SHAKE
THURSDAY	CHERRY YOGURT & GREEN TEA	PROTEIN DRINK	GRILLED CHICKEN BREAST, TUNA SALAD OR ??	PINEAPPLE CASHEW CHICKEN and SALAD	PROTEIN SHAKE
FRIDAY	BERRY YOGURT & GREEN TEA	PROTEIN DRINK	GRILLED CHICKEN BREAST, TUNA SALAD OR ??	??	PROTEIN SHAKE
SATURDAY	??	PROTEIN DRINK	GRILLED CHICKEN BREAST, TUNA SALAD OR ??	C.O.R.N. clean out refrigerator night	CARAMEL APPLE HAND PIES
SUNDAY	??	PROTEIN DRINK	GRILLED CHICKEN BREAST, TUNA SALAD OR ??	CHICKEN in OREGANO CREAM SAUCE	PROTEIN SHAKE

SUCCESSFUL RECIPE LINKS FROM LAST WEEK

CHICKEN in BACON RANCH GRAVY not a great picture, but oh so tasty!

HAPPY HOMEMAKER & MENU PLAN MONDAY week 22 of 2018

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.

We’re on the road this weekend to begin our journey and adventures in life…

HAPPY HOMEMAKER & MENU PLAN MONDAY week 21 of 2018

Sorry I’ve been MIA so much of the past few weeks. As we get closer to the BIG day, I’ve definitely been busier AND A LOT more tired. I hope you have all had a great week.

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
to visit with all the other Monday morning ladies.

OUTSIDE MY WINDOW & THE WEATHER OUTSIDE & WHAT I’M WEARING – A HUGE storm rolled through unexpectedly last night leaving behind a TON of humidity to start the day. At least the storm also brought in a COOL front and it’s only supposed to be in the high 80’s this week so I’m wearing cut offs and a teal polo shirt.

ON THE BREAKFAST PLATE – My standard peach yogurt and green tea is today’s breakfast

ON MY MIND / THINGS THAT ARE MAKING ME HAPPY – I’m extremely happy that we are seeing the light at the end of the tunnel fromthis nightmare! I’m working on a final update to be posted soon. All of your encouraging remarks have REALLY helped get us through this!

FAVORITE PHOTO FROM THE CAMERA

Last Wednesday through Friday I spent visiting with my original BFF aka FFE (first friend ever) Leslie. We had a great time chatting and playing nostalgic catch up. So many memories to think about. It was so great to see her and spend time together.

This picture is of a gift my sweet neighbor brought me yesterday to say thank you and goodbye. And some of the flowers she brought me last week still look GREAT!

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…KITCHEN… STUDIO… all getting a deep clean today and tomorrow
YARD… nothing much afteryesterday’s storms, just too wet to do anything, but hubby will mow Wednesday
BLOG… not much for a few weeks

CURRENTLY READING AND ON MY WAIT PILE

I’M READING Debra Clopton’s Windswept Bay Series Book #4 Forever & For Always

IN THE WAIT PILE TO READ

BARBARA FREETHY’S PERILOUS TRUST after I finish this series

SHOWS WE WATCH

COMEDIES – Big Bang Theory, Young Sheldon, Life in Pieces, The Good Place, American Housewife

MILITARY, POLITICAL & CRIME DRAMAS and a couple that qualify as comedies – NCIS, NCIS New Orleans and NCIS LA, Criminal Minds, Wisdon 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 & REALITY – The Good Doctor, This Is Us, The Resident, the Amazing Race just ended and Dancing With the Stars will be beginning

SYFY – Z Nation, the Walking Dead, Flash, Supergirl, DC Legends, Orville, Once Upon a Time, The X-Files, Supernatural

COOKING – Guy’s Grocery Games, Beat Bobby Flay, Worst Cooks in America Celebrity, Bobby & Damaris, Kid’s Baking Championship, Master Chef Jr., Master Chef

HEALTH & BEAUTY TIPS

HOMEMAKING/COOKING TIP

MENU PLANS FOR THE WEEK

	BREAKFAST	SNACK	LUNCH	DINNER	SNACK
MONDAY	BANANA & TEA	PROTEIN DRINK	TUNA SALAD OR ??	PORK CARNITAS TAMALES & GARDEN SALSA	FRUIT
TUESDAY	YOGURT & TEA	PROTEIN DRINK	TUNA SALAD OR??	C.O.R.N. clean out refrigerator night	FRUIT
WEDNESDAY	BANANA & TEA	PROTEIN DRINK	TUNA SALAD OR??	C.O.R.N. clean out refrigerator night	FRUIT
THURSDAY	YOGURT & TEA	PROTEIN DRINK	OUT	OUT	FRUIT
FRIDAY	YOGURT & TEA	PROTEIN DRINK	OUT	OUT	FRUIT
SATURDAY	YOGURT & TEA	PROTEIN DRINK	OUT	OUT	FRUIT
SUNDAY	YOGURT & TEA	PROTEIN DRINK	OUT	OUT	FRUIT

SUCCESSFUL RECIPE LINKS FROM LAST WEEK

HAPPY HOMEMAKER & MENU PLAN MONDAY week 20 of 2018

Good Morning sweet ladies. Happy Belated Mother’s Day. I hope you all had a wonderful weekend. Ours was quiet, but productive with last minute touch ups, grocery shopping and watching a couple movies and the NASCAR races.

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 & WHAT I’M WEARING – The sun is shinning, bu it’s beginning to get more and more sticky out there (which I hate). We’re predicted with high 90’s and high corresponding humidity all week and no rain in sight! I have on Levi’s pedal pushers and a comfy t-shirt.

ON THE BREAKFAST PLATE – Peach yogurt, green tea and a handful of honey nut cheerios

CRAFTS / PROJECTS – none at the moment

ON MY MIND / THINGS THAT ARE MAKING ME HAPPY – Oh my, where to begin? Let me just say the list is long, blessed and heading in the right direction.

FAVORITE PHOTO FROM THE CAMERA – All I took this past week was food photos 😀

INSPIRATION

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

LAUNDRY… just a couple loads of clothing and towels
LIVING AREAS… LOL you’re kidding right? there are boxes EVERYWHERE
KITCHEN… pretty clean and still empty
YARD… nothing much – hubby does need to mow one more time and use the vinegar mix on the weeds trying to come up along the pavers.
BLOG… some recipe updating, future post planning and even some holiday post planning

CURRENTLY READING AND ON MY WAIT PILE

I’M READING Debra Clopton’s Windswept Bay series – Book #2 Somewhere with You

IN THE WAIT PILE TO READ

BARBARA FREETHY’S PERILOUS TRUST

MOVIES and/or SOMETHING INTERESTING I WATCHED – We rented Justice League and Humanity Bureau from Red Box and are trying to clean out the DVR of old shows.

WHAT IS ON THE DVR OR LIST TO WATCH

COMEDIES – Big Bang Theory, Young Sheldon, Life in Pieces, The Good Place, American Housewife

DRAMAS & REALITY – The Good Doctor, This Is Us, The Resident, the Amazing Race, Dancing With the Stars

SYFY – Z Nation, the Walking Dead, Flash, Supergirl, DC Legends, Orville, Once Upon a Time, The X-Files, Supernatural

COOKING – Guy’s Grocery Games, Beat Bobby Flay, Worst Cooks in America, Bobby & Damaris, Kid’s Baking Championship, Master Chef Jr., Master Chef, Southern at Heart

WHAT’S IN THE CRAFT BASKET – EVERYTHING is packed so there will be no crafting until late June or so when I start the Christmas gifts and cards

WHERE I’VE BEEN SURFING ON THE NET – This article, 10 “Notes to Self” that Will Stop You from Taking Things Personally REALLY spoke to me with some wonderful messages I needed to hear. Here a few that spoke louder to me.

HEALTH & BEAUTY TIPS

HOMEMAKING/COOKING TIP

MENU PLANS FOR THE WEEK

	BREAKFAST	SNACK	LUNCH	DINNER	SNACK/DESSERT
MONDAY	CHEERIOS, SMALL BANANA & GREEN TEA	PROTEIN DRINK	GRILLED CHICKEN BREAST, TUNA SALAD OR ??	LEMON BUTTER CHICKEN	PROTEIN SHAKE
TUESDAY	PEACH YOGURT & GREEN TEA	PROTEIN DRINK	GRILLED CHICKEN BREAST, TUNA SALAD OR ??	TAHITI CHICKEN	PROTEIN SHAKE
WEDNESDAY	CHEERIOS, SMALL BANANA & GREEN TEA	PROTEIN DRINK	GRILLED CHICKEN BREAST, TUNA SALAD OR ??	C.O.R.N. clean out refrigerator night	PROTEIN SHAKE
THURSDAY	CHERRY YOGURT & GREEN TEA	PROTEIN DRINK	GRILLED CHICKEN BREAST, TUNA SALAD OR ??	LEMON FIZZ CHICKEN	PROTEIN SHAKE
FRIDAY	BERRY YOGURT & GREEN TEA	PROTEIN DRINK	GRILLED CHICKEN BREAST, TUNA SALAD OR ??	FRENCH ONION SMOTHERED PORK CHOPS	PROTEIN SHAKE
SATURDAY	OUT	PROTEIN DRINK	GRILLED CHICKEN BREAST, TUNA SALAD OR ??	C.O.R.N. clean out refrigerator night	CARAMEL APPLE HAND PIES
SUNDAY	BACON & EGGS	PROTEIN DRINK	GRILLED CHICKEN BREAST, TUNA SALAD OR ??	PORK CARNITAS TAMALES	PROTEIN SHAKE

SUCCESSFUL RECIPE LINKS FROM LAST WEEK

MAPLE CINNAMON OATMEAL CAKE with OOEY GOOEY COCONUT TOPPING
UPDATED KENTUCKY HOT BROWN CASSEROLE
LEMON BUTTER CHICKEN
TAHITIAN CHICKEN
PULLED PORK TACOS
FRENCH ONION SMOTHERED PORK CHOPS

HAPPY HOMEMAKER & MENU PLAN MONDAY week 19 of 2018

GOOD MORNING sweet ladies. It’s been a busy week around here and I’m still struggling with energy issues so am not getting as much done as I want AND/OR need to which is leaving me frustrated. My TO DO list is growing, but at least there will be a reward at the other end of this hassle. I’m really looking forward to the time to rehab with the gym and pool in hopes that my elusive energy and strength return in earnest.

I’m having a few blog issues too that are baffling my server guy so I’m a bit frustrated every time I see that “fatal error” on my side bar. I’m hoping he figures it out soon and I can have a bit easier way of blogging. Right now I have to log in, password and all EVERY time – so frustrating.

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 & WHAT I’M WEARING – The sun is shining, but there is no breeze blowing. It’s official, summer is here! 90’s all week with an ever increasing humidity equals = BOY AM I GLAD we’re leaving 😀

I’m wearing Levi’s capris with my favorite ovarian cancer awareness t-shirt and flip flops. And it is definitely time to start automatically putting this mop of hair in a ponytail first thing in the morning.

ON THE BREAKFAST PLATE – Peach protein shake and green tea

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 AND empty – the pantry and freezer are both looking bare, which is a good thing 😀
YARD… nothing much
BLOG… some recipe updating, future post planning and holiday post planning
APPOINTMENTS… Surgeon follow-up, blood work for next week’s doctor appointment, nail appointment, phone calls, paperwork…

CURRENTLY READING AND ON MY WAIT PILE

I’m still reading Debra Clopton’s FROM THIS MOMENT ON (WINDSWEPT BAY #1)

IN THE WAIT PILE TO READ

BARBARA FREETHY’S PERILOUS TRUST -Off the Grid: FBI Series Book #1

WHAT IS ON THE DVR OR LIST TO WATCH

COMEDIES – Big Bang Theory, Young Sheldon, Life in Pieces, The Good Place, American Housewife

DRAMAS & REALITY – The Good Doctor, This Is Us, The Resident

SYFY – Z Nation, the Walking Dead, Flash, Supergirl, DC Legends, Orville, Once Upon a Time, The X-Files, Supernatural

COOKING – Guy’s Grocery Games, Beat Bobby Flay, Worst Cooks in America, Bobby & Damaris, Kid’s Baking Championship, Master Chef Jr., Master Chef

HEALTH & BEAUTY TIPS

HOMEMAKING/COOKING TIP

MENU PLANS FOR THE WEEK

	BREAKFAST	SNACK	LUNCH	DINNER	SNACK/DESSERT
MONDAY	CHEERIOS, SMALL BANANA & GREEN TEA	PROTEIN DRINK	GRILLED CHICKEN BREAST, TUNA SALAD OR ??	SPAGHETTI & MEATBALLS	PROTEIN SHAKE
TUESDAY	PEACH YOGURT & GREEN TEA	PROTEIN DRINK	GRILLED CHICKEN BREAST, TUNA SALAD OR ??	BAKED PINEAPPLE ORANGE CHICKEN	PROTEIN SHAKE
WEDNESDAY	CHEERIOS, SMALL BANANA & GREEN TEA	PROTEIN DRINK	GRILLED CHICKEN BREAST, TUNA SALAD OR ??	C.O.R.N. clean out refrigerator night	PROTEIN SHAKE
THURSDAY	CHERRY YOGURT & GREEN TEA	PROTEIN DRINK	GRILLED CHICKEN BREAST, TUNA SALAD OR ??	INSIDE OUT CHICKEN POT PIES	PROTEIN SHAKE
FRIDAY	BERRY YOGURT & GREEN TEA	PROTEIN DRINK	GRILLED CHICKEN BREAST, TUNA SALAD OR ??	PAN SEARED BARRAMUNDI & ROASTED CORN	PROTEIN SHAKE
SATURDAY	GERMAN PANCAKES	PROTEIN DRINK	GRILLED CHICKEN BREAST, TUNA SALAD OR ??	C.O.R.N. clean out refrigerator night	???
SUNDAY	SLUMBERING VOLCANOES	PROTEIN DRINK	GRILLED CHICKEN BREAST, TUNA SALAD OR ??	BUTTERMILK CHIVE CHICKEN	PROTEIN SHAKE

SUCCESSFUL RECIPE LINKS FROM LAST WEEK

GENERAL TSO CHICKEN

General Tso’s chicken is traditionally a sweet, deep-fried chicken dish that is served in Chinese restaurants. It is often seen as General Tse’s chicken. The dish is named after Zuo Zongtang (Tso Tsung-t’ang), a Qing dynasty statesman and military leader.

This baked version of General Tso Chicken is baked for a lighter and much healthier version that actually tastes BETTER to us than the original version AND it is so much easier to prepare. The sauce is sweet and savory and best of all is poured right over the raw chicken for a one pan supper that tastes better than ANY restaurant quality meal.

GENERAL TSO CHICKEN Yield 4-6 servings

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken tenderloins or chicken breasts, cut into 1 ½-inch pieces
1 tablespoon cornstarch
½ cup chicken broth
½ cup brown sugar
¼ cup Hoisin sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
½ teaspoon salt
3 cloves garlic, finely minced fresh garlic
¼ teaspoon ground ginger
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (add more for a spicier dish or omit for a mild dish)
¼ cup peanuts
Optional garnish: sliced green onions, toasted sesame seeds

Preheat oven to 425°.
Spray a medium (9×6 or 11×7) baking dish with cooking spray.
Place chicken in the prepared dish. Sprinkle with cornstarch and toss to coat.
In a separate bowl, whisk together chicken broth, brown sugar, Hoisin sauce, sesame oil, salt, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
Pour sauce over chicken and stir to combine.
Bake, uncovered, for 20 minutes. Stir, return to the oven for 5-10 more minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and sauce has thickened.
Remove from oven, stir in peanuts. Season with additional salt and red pepper flakes, to taste.
Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds just before serving.

NOTES:

1) Serve the General Tso Chicken over rice with plenty of extra sauce spooned over top. We love it with steamed broccoli! 

2) If you’re just cooking for 2 the ingredients cut in half really well. I like to prepare it in individual 5×5 Le Crueset baking dishes.

HAPPY HOMEMAKER & MENU PLAN MONDAY week 18 of 2018

Good morning everyone. I cannot believe it’s Monday again. Last week just completely sped by! I’ve barely gotten last week’s visits in before it was time to write today’s post! I promise to be better this week about visiting! 😀 This will be another busy week, but I hope you are all having slower paced and enjoyable weeks.

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 – we are no longer blessed with the unseasonally cool and nice weather we have had. I guess spring is over 🙁 Starting this week we have seriously higher humidity and temperatures will be in the high 80’s all week.

ON THE BREAKFAST PLATE – Cheerios, Small banana & Green tea

ON MY MIND / THINGS THAT ARE MAKING ME HAPPY – I’m trying really hard to live a positive life and not get too worked up over what is really out of my control.

FAVORITE PHOTO FROM THE CAMERA – I’m working on a post for our trip to the alligator park that will be up in a day or two, but I love this picture of a sleepy alligator that was yawning and couldn’t be bothered with the activity around him.

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… starting to get a bit cluttered with boxes, but it’s all good 😀
KITCHEN… pretty clean and empty too 🙁 I pulled out the washer and dryer and did a deep clean there on Saturday
YARD… hubby mowed yesterday and fertilized so all good there
BLOG… some recipe updating, future post planning and holiday post planning

CURRENTLY READING & TV / DVR

I’m now reading Debra Clopton’s FROM THIS MOMENT ON (WINDSWEPT BAY #1)

We’re working on cleaning out the DVR from the winter season build-up.

HALLMARK/COMEDIES – Big Bang Theory, Young Sheldon, Life in Pieces, American Housewife, Splitting Up Together, The Middle, The Good Witch, When Calls the Heart

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 & REALITY – The Good Doctor, This Is Us, The Resident, Dancing With the Stars and America’s Got Talent will be beginning. We also started watching The Terror about the Arctic Expedition and are finding it really interesting

SYFY – Z Nation, the Walking Dead, Flash, Supergirl, DC Legends, Orville, Once Upon a Time, The X-Files, Supernatural

COOKING – Guy’s Grocery Games, Beat Bobby Flay, Worst Cooks in America, Bobby & Damaris, Kid’s Baking Championship, Master Chef Jr., Master Chef, Southern at Heart (Damaris)

MENU PLANS FOR THE WEEK

	BREAKFAST	SNACK	LUNCH	DINNER	SNACK/DESSERT
MONDAY	CHEERIOS, SMALL BANANA & GREEN TEA	PROTEIN DRINK	GRILLED CHICKEN BREAST, TUNA SALAD OR ??	ITALIAN WHITE CHEDDAR BURGERS with BALSAMIC ONIONS & ROASTED COUNTRY POTATOES	PROTEIN SHAKE
TUESDAY	PEACH YOGURT & GREEN TEA	PROTEIN DRINK	GRILLED CHICKEN BREAST, TUNA SALAD OR ??	BUFFALO CHICKEN MEATBALLS & COLESLAW	PROTEIN SHAKE
WEDNESDAY	CHEERIOS, SMALL BANANA & GREEN TEA	PROTEIN DRINK	GRILLED CHICKEN BREAST, TUNA SALAD OR ??	C.O.R.N. clean out refrigerator night	PROTEIN SHAKE
THURSDAY	CHERRY YOGURT & GREEN TEA	PROTEIN DRINK	GRILLED CHICKEN BREAST, TUNA SALAD OR ??	MAMA’S RETRO MEATLOAF with MASHED POTATOES & ROASTED CARROTS	PROTEIN SHAKE
FRIDAY	BERRY YOGURT & GREEN TEA	PROTEIN DRINK	GRILLED CHICKEN BREAST, TUNA SALAD OR ??	CHICKEN FRIED CHICKEN with MASHED POTATOES & PEPPERED GRAVY	PROTEIN SHAKE
SATURDAY	BACON & EGGS	PROTEIN DRINK	GRILLED CHICKEN BREAST, TUNA SALAD OR ??	C.O.R.N. clean out refrigerator night	CARAMEL APPLE HAND PIES
SUNDAY	HEAVENLY HASH	PROTEIN DRINK	GRILLED CHICKEN BREAST, TUNA SALAD OR ??	MEXICAN COBB SALAD	PROTEIN SHAKE

SUCCESSFUL RECIPE LINKS FROM LAST WEEK

HEALTH & BEAUTY TIPS

HOMEMAKING/COOKING TIP

HAPPY HOMEMAKER & MENU PLAN MONDAY week 17 of 2018

GOOD MORNING sweet ladies. I hope you all had a wonderful week. Mine was productive, but I’ve just been so tired. I’m having a REALLY tough time getting my energy back since the last surgery. The doctor keeps reminding me that 6 surgeries in 7 years (where the 1st and last were both really long surgeries – 8 hours each) is a lot for the body and to be patient, but patience is really NOT my strong suit. Not that I have much choice, so I just keep working at it. 😀

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 – once again the storms hit over the weekend. Saturday night was a wonderful thunderstorm and then Sunday was just gray, but today and tomorrow are supposed to be bright and sunny! We’re moving into that part of the year that is just too warm and humid for me so we’ll see if that lasts or if mother nature has at least one more cool front for me 😀

ON THE BREAKFAST PLATE – honey nut cheerios and green tea

ON MY MIND / THINGS THAT ARE MAKING ME HAPPY – moving forward in continuous steps in all areas of life is making me smile more!

INSPIRATION

AS I LOOK AROUND THE HOUSE / WEEKLY TO DO LIST & HOUSE PROJECTS – there are no pressing appointments this week YAY 😀 I did get the results from last week and I’m good to go for a year on the mammogram, but they are watching the bone density more closely especially after the new issues with vitamin and mineral absorption from the stomach surgery. It’s ALWAYS something!

LAUNDRY… just a couple loads this week
LIVING AREAS… really clean
KITCHEN… really clean for a change
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 & TV / DVR

I’m now reading… nothing this week – just too tired by the time I get into bed, I’m asleep already

COMEDIES – Big Bang Theory, Young Sheldon, Life in Pieces, The Good Place, American Housewife, Living Biblically

DRAMAS & REALITY – The Good Doctor, This Is Us, The Resident, Ransom

SYFY – Z Nation, the Walking Dead, Flash, Supergirl, DC Legends, Once Upon a Time, The X-Files, Supernatural, Fear the Walking Dead

COOKING – Guy’s Grocery Games, Beat Bobby Flay, Worst Cooks in America Celebrity, Bobby & Damaris, Kid’s Baking Championship, Master Chef Jr., Master Chef, Southern at Heart

MENU PLANS FOR THE WEEK

	BREAKFAST	SNACK	LUNCH	DINNER	SNACK/DESSERT
MONDAY	CHEERIOS, SMALL BANANA & GREEN TEA	PROTEIN DRINK	GRILLED CHICKEN BREAST, TUNA SALAD OR ??	SOUTHERN CHICKEN & STUFFING	PROTEIN SHAKE
TUESDAY	PEACH YOGURT & GREEN TEA	PROTEIN DRINK	GRILLED CHICKEN BREAST, TUNA SALAD OR ??	ABC PANINIS (Chicken, Bacon and Avocado)	PROTEIN SHAKE
WEDNESDAY	CHEERIOS, SMALL BANANA & GREEN TEA	PROTEIN DRINK	GRILLED CHICKEN BREAST, TUNA SALAD OR ??	BOURBON CHICKEN & BISCUITS	PROTEIN SHAKE
THURSDAY	CHERRY YOGURT & GREEN TEA	PROTEIN DRINK	GRILLED CHICKEN BREAST, TUNA SALAD OR ??	SMOTHERED PORK CHOPS	PROTEIN SHAKE
FRIDAY	BERRY YOGURT & GREEN TEA	PROTEIN DRINK	GRILLED CHICKEN BREAST, TUNA SALAD OR ??	HAWAIIAN CHICKEN	PROTEIN SHAKE
SATURDAY	SAVORY FRENCH TOAST	PROTEIN DRINK	GRILLED CHICKEN BREAST, TUNA SALAD OR ??	SMOTHERED CHICKEN & GRAVY	CARAMEL APPLE HAND PIES
SUNDAY	BACON & EGGS	PROTEIN DRINK	GRILLED CHICKEN BREAST, TUNA SALAD OR ??	PORK CHOPS with MUSHROOM SAUCE	PROTEIN SHAKE

SUCCESSFUL RECIPE LINKS FROM LAST WEEK

LEMON CHICKEN COSTOLETTA
COCOA FUDGE BROWNIES
MEATBALL SLIDERS
CRISPY ASIAN CHICKEN THIGHS with SESAME CUCUMBER TOMATO SALAD
HEALTH & BEAUTY TIPS

HOMEMAKING/COOKING TIP

PINEAPPLE SOUR CREAM PUDDING CAKE ~ BLOG 365.120

This cake is PERFECTLY moist EVERY time and requires no icing unless you want a dusting of powdered sugar.
BANANA PINEAPPLE SOUR CREAM PUDDING CAKE
8 ounce can crushed pineapple in juice (DO NOT DRAIN)
1⁄2 teaspoon baking soda
18 ounce yellow cake mix
7 ounce package Jell-O INSTANT banana pudding mix
4 LARGE eggs
1 cup FULL FAT sour cream
1⁄4 cup oil

In a small bowl, combine pineapple and the baking soda; mix well.
 In a large mixing bowl, combine remaining ingredients; stir in pineapple.
Blend, then beat at medium speed with an electric mixer for 2 minutes.
Pour into a greased and floured 10-inch Spring Form, Bundt or tube pan.
Bake at 350° for 50-55 minutes or until cake springs back when lightly touched.
Cool in pan about 15 minutes.
Remove from pan and finish cooling on wire rack.
 Dust with powdered sugar

NOTE:

The beauty of this recipe is that the flavor combos are endless and only based on your imagination. So far I’ve tried Lemon, Cheesecake and Pistachio with great success.
If you use the 3.5 ounce packages you can mix flavors also. Pistachio and cheesecake mixed together are YUMMY!

Originally posted March 31, 2018 / Updated April 18, 2023

COCOA FUDGE BROWNIES

COCOA FUDGE BROWNIES
These brownies are crisp on top, have a bottom that holds together and are gooey and chewy in the center. They are also super versatile. Add walnuts, heath bar pieces, peanut butter chips or a ribbon of caramel depending on your flavor needs at the moment.

2 sticks butter, melted and cooled
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
1 cup packed brown sugar
4 LARGE eggs, at room temperature
3 teaspoons PURE vanilla extract
3/4 teaspoon sea salt
1 cup all purpose flour
1 cup QUALITY unsweetened cocoa powder
7-8 ounces roughly chopped chocolate (I use Bakers)
1/2 cup chopped walnuts

Preheat oven to 350°.
Spray an 9×9 or 8×10 baking pan with cooking oil spray. Line the pan with parchment paper. Set aside.
In a medium mixing bowl whisk together the melted butter, oil and sugar.
Add the eggs and vanilla; beating another minute until light in color.
In another bowl sift together the flour, cocoa powder and salt.
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until JUST combined DO NOT OVER BEAT – this will make them tough if you do and DO NOT OVER BEAT your batter especially after the flour and cocoa powder are added. Doing so creates air pockets in the batter which will give you cake-like textured brownies.
Fold in 75% of the chocolate pieces and walnuts.
Pour batter into your prepared pan, smoothing the top out evenly, and top with remaining chocolate pieces.
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the center of the brownies in the pan no longer jiggles and is just set to the touch (the brownies will keep baking in the hot pan out of the oven). When testing with a toothpick, the toothpick should come out dirty for fudge brownies.
Cool for 10 minutes and then carefully remove them from pan.
Allow to cool to room temperature before slicing.

NOTES:

Store at room temperature for 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. These brownies can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before serving.
Changing your chocolate flavor can alter your flavors.

HAPPY HOMEMAKER & MENU PLAN MONDAY week 16 of 2018

Good Morning sweet ladies. I’m up and going quite early as I have first AM appointments and wanted to make sure I got this up and ready to post before I leave. I just hope my energy stays with me through the end of the day 😀 So I’m going to get straight to it this morning.

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 – lately it seems like we only have storms on weekends 😀 This week was no different as the storm started rolling in Friday afternoon. And once again it brought a severe temperature dip of almost 30 degrees AND it brought A LOT of wind. We were fortunate that we were far enough south that we escaped the hail and major tornado warnings as a whole. Thia week we are supposed to go back up to the 80’s, but no rain in sight so let’s hope the humidity stays low 😀

ON THE BREAKFAST PLATE – Green Tea only while prepping for this morning’s tests.

ON MY MIND / THINGS THAT ARE MAKING ME HAPPY – My mind is starting to work ALL the time as we move into the final stages of packing and prepping for a cross country move. Moving is never easy! But, it is even less so when moving things into storage for unknown period of time. We are making sure to take all the batteries out of remotes, clocks and tools before we pack them to avoid corrosion and anything that is getting washed is let to dry a few extra days before getting secured into packing.

FAVORITE PHOTO FROM THE CAMERA
INSPIRATION

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

APPOINTMENTS…this morning I have my bone density, mammogram and mammogram ultra sound and then my eye exam on Friday. I’ll especially be glad to have today’s tests over and know the results. Being a cancer survivor ALWAYS not only makes me more vigilant, but also makes the wait for results a hypersensitive time.
LAUNDRY… quite a few loads this week, towels, bedding (mattress covers and quilts too) and clothing PLUS I’m running the wall quilts through air cycles to collect the dust before packing
LIVING AREAS… plan on doing a deep clean today and tomorrow to catch the stray packing materials, but it is looking more and more like we’re moving soon 🙂
KITCHEN… pretty clean and empty as we keep using only what’s in the pantry and freezer
STUDIO… is moving box storage these days so nothing going on there
YARD… nothing much after the weekend storms, just too wet to do anything though the yard really does need mowing
BLOG… still doing some recipe updating and future post planning

CURRENTLY READING & TV / DVR

I’m now reading Jana DeLeon’s Shaye Archer Series #6 DREADFUL

COMEDIES – Big Bang Theory, Young Sheldon, Life in Pieces, The Good Place, American Housewife

DRAMAS & REALITY – The Good Doctor, This Is Us, The Resident, DWTS, AGT, Ransom

SYFY – Z Nation, The Walking Dead, Flash, Supergirl, DC Legends, Once Upon a Time, The X-Files, Supernatural

COOKING – Guy’s Grocery Games, Beat Bobby Flay, Worst Cooks in America, Bobby & Damaris, Kid’s Baking Championship, Master Chef Jr., Master Chef, Southern at Heart

HEALTH TIPS

COOKING TIPS MENU PLANS FOR THE WEEK

	BREAKFAST	SNACK	LUNCH	DINNER	SNACK/DESSERT
MONDAY	EARLY FASTING APPOINTMENT	PROTEIN DRINK	GRILLED CHICKEN BREAST, TUNA SALAD OR ??	SAVORY FRIED CABBAGE & GRILLED STEAKS	PROTEIN SHAKE
TUESDAY	PEACH YOGURT & GREEN TEA	PROTEIN DRINK	GRILLED CHICKEN BREAST, TUNA SALAD OR ??	TEX MEX CHICKEN TORTILLA PINWHEELS	PROTEIN SHAKE
WEDNESDAY	CHEERIOS, SMALL BANANA & GREEN TEA	PROTEIN DRINK	GRILLED CHICKEN BREAST, TUNA SALAD OR ??	HONEY BBQ CHICKEN POPPERS	PROTEIN SHAKE
THURSDAY	CHERRY YOGURT & GREEN TEA	PROTEIN DRINK	GRILLED CHICKEN BREAST, TUNA SALAD OR ??	BAKED SOUR CREAM CHICKEN & RICE	PROTEIN SHAKE
FRIDAY	BERRY YOGURT & GREEN TEA	PROTEIN DRINK	GRILLED CHICKEN BREAST, TUNA SALAD OR ??	OMG CHICKEN	PROTEIN SHAKE
SATURDAY	S.O.S.	PROTEIN DRINK	GRILLED CHICKEN BREAST, TUNA SALAD OR ??	DRUNKEN CHICKEN & TOMATOES	BERRY CAKE
SUNDAY	DUTCH BABY & SWEET & SPICY BACON	PROTEIN DRINK	GRILLED CHICKEN BREAST, TUNA SALAD OR ??	TAILGATE BUFFALO CHICKEN CASSEROLE	PROTEIN SHAKE

SUCCESSFUL RECIPE LINKS FROM LAST WEEK

PINEAPPLE ANGEL FOOD CAKE
CHICKEN PARMESAN CASSEROLE
RED PEPPER GLAZED HALIBUT
TEX MEX MAC-N-CHEESE / CORN FLAKE CRUSTED CHICKEN SLIDERS & BUTTERMILK SLAW
TEX MEX CHICKEN PINWHEELS
CARNE GUISADA STREET TACOS
SWEET & SPICY BACON DUTCH BABY

CHICKEN PARMESAN CASSEROLE

CHICKEN PARMESAN CASSEROLE
1/2 pound penne pasta
3/4 pound chicken breast, cut into bite size pieces
Wondra flour for dredging
Fresh ground black pepper and salt
1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon avocado oil
1/2 batch marinara sauce (recipe below)
1 1/4 cup grated Mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
4 slices Provolone cheese

Preheat oven to 350°.
Spray 9×9 baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
Cook pasta per package directions on the al dente’ side. Drain and set aside.
Combine flour and seasonings in a ziplock bag.
Heat butter and oil in skillet until sizzling.
Dredge chicken pieces in flour mixture, shaking off the excess.
Add chicken pieces to hot oil and quickly sear all sides.
In a large bowl gently combine sauce and pasta with the majority of the Mozzarella and Parmesan reserving some for the top.
Gently fold in chicken pieces and stir to coat.
Spread ingredients evenly into baking dish.
Top with provolone slices followed by the remaining Parmesan and Mozzarella.
Cover with foil and bake 40 minutes.
Uncover and return to oven baking another 10-15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and brown.
Let cool 10 minutes before serving.

SAUCE
1 tablespoons avocado oil
1 tablespoon butter
1/2 small red onion, chopped
24 ounce can whole tomatoes
1 KNORR beef gel
3/4 cup moscato white wine
Juice from 1 lemon
5-6 cloves garlic, finely minced into a paste
3 tablespoons Classico sundried tomato pesto
1 teaspoon fresh ground Himalayan pink salt
1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon fresh ground red pepper
1 teaspoon sugar
2 tablespoons fresh chopped Italian flat leaf parsley
2 tablespoons fresh chopped basil

Heat avocado oil in a large saute’ pan over medium high heat.
Add onions and garlic sauteing until tender.
Whisk together the beef gel, wine, pesto and juice from the tomatoes.
Add seasonings, blending well.
Add tomatoes and gently crush.
Bring to a SLOW boil.
Reduce heat and simmer 2 hours.

Category: MEMES & LINK PARTIES