According to Rachel

What's for Breakfast?

2012-02-09T08:52:00.000-06:00

This morning I had a fried egg, 2 egg whites in a tortilla with hot sauce! Calories: 185

Useful social sites for chefs, amateur cooks and foodies.

2012-02-09T08:50:00.000-06:00

Get Cooking: 5 Social Sites For Chefs, Amateur Cooks, and Foodies

Social media has helped foodies everywhere cultivate their passion for fine delicacies and good home cooking in a whole new way. Whether you like cooking, eating, or just ogling an immaculately prepared gourmet meal, social media allows us to swap our favorite recipes, gain invaluable entertaining tips from likeminded foodies, and celebrate the things we eat to nourish our bodies. (It’s also a real lifesaver for those of us who have a knack for burning a pot of water!) So forget microwave meals and over-priced pre-prepared dishes: channel your inner culinary connoisseur with these five great social sites for foodies:

1.) Gojee: Let the oohing and ahhing commence. Gojee is a foodie’s dream manifest. The site features dozens of gorgeous, magazine-quality photos of swoon-worthy meals—from exotic Thai dishes to the sexiest bowl of spaghetti and meatballs you’ve ever seen. And they don’t stop there: Gojee has awe-inspiring images and easy-to-master recipes for top shelf cocktails, hors d’oeurves, pasta, salads, and more. Plus, you can tell the site what’s in your cupboard and it’ll suggest recipes for dishes you can make without an undesirable trip to the market. Oh, and don’t forget to tweet, like or circle your favorite dish to loop your friends into your kitchen.

2.) AllRecipes: Want to know why I know All Recipes is a true testament to the power of social media? Because my grandmother swears by it (and she’s not one for fads!) You merely have to mention the site to get her started on the best and worst dishes she’s tried, those she can’t wait to fix, and the strange, but delectable mainstay dishes she’s adopted from the site. This user-generated recipe site lets you customize your recipes for large parties, allows users to pose recipe alterations, and sports a successful rating system (my grandmother won’t make anything “without at least 4 stars.”). And the site’s seriously steeped in social media: just check out All Recipes TV and their Fresh Bites Blog.

3.) Epicurious: This site is a true food devotional. Whether you’re looking for recipes, cooking articles, menus, or food guides, you’re likely to find a slew of delectable insight via this foodie site. Recipes are culled from first class epicurean spots like Bon Appetit and Gourmet, world-class chefs and cooking hobbyists. Plus, the site has multiple social media features, including smartphone and tablet apps, the ‘Epi-log blog,’ and tons of member forums.

4.) MyRecipes.com: Who doesn’t get a pang of hunger when flipping through an issue of Southern Living, Food&Wine, Coastal Living, or Sunset magazine? Well those gorgeously prepared dishes are now all in one place, thanks to MyRecipes.com. This recipe sharing social site allows food-lovers to stay connected via all the major social networks, boasts easy-to-follow cooking videos, and has one seriously informative blog with endless cooking ideas. MyRecipes also has a ton of health-conscious options to get that New Year’s resolution back on track.

5.) WeAreChefs.com: After all this social media cooking, you might be a virtuoso in the kitchen by now. So it’s time to move up the ranks. We Are Chefs is a social site brought to you by the American Culinary Federation. The site serves as a directory and online network for professional chefs. It features invite-only groups, professional chef blogs, and a way for master cooks to trade insider tips. You’ll also find instructional videos, and photos of edible masterpieces.

Content supplied by Social Web Daily.

Lodge Cast Iron Cookbook

2012-02-08T15:35:00.001-06:00

Lodge Manufacturing - the only domestic manufacturer of the cast iron pan - has been producing "America's Original Cookwareä" since 1896. Today, to the delight of home cooks and chefs alike, Lodge is releasing the most-comprehensive guide to cast iron cooking yet with THE LODGE CAST IRON COOKBOOK: A TREASURY OF TIMELESS, DELICIOUS RECIPES.

The release of this cookbook couldn't be more timely, as everyone - from America's most chic restaurants to the countless kitchens of avid home cooks - is re-discovering the joy of cooking with classic cast iron.

With more than 200 recipes and 200 full-color photographs, THE LODGE CAST IRON COOKBOOK offers dishes from over 100 contributors from notable chefs and cookbook authors including Rose Levy Beranbaum, John Currence, Julia Reed, and Allison Fishman, to home cooks and Lodge family members and employees. Each chapter is full of memories and stories alongside inventive new dishes and hand-me-down treasures.

Highlights include:

Cast Iron 101: The book covers all things cast iron -- from types of pots and pans to why cast iron is the must-have kitchen item for every household; how to care, renew, maintain, and cook with cast iron and the history of Lodge Manufacturing

Versatile Dishes: Home cooks will discover the versatility and everyday use of their cast iron pans with recipes that span the globe-from vegetarian options like French Cassoulet Vegetarian Style and Skillet Cauliflower-Feta Pizza to Southern favorites like Southern Fried Okra and Scott's Collards. Chapters that include recipes for breakfast, soups, stew, gumbo & chili, as well as one for main dishes provide limitless inspiration for cast iron cooking-there is even a whole chapter for desserts!

An entire chapter devoted to cornbread: Cast iron and cornbread are inextricably linked, so it's no wonder that Lodge is a sponsor of the National Cornbread Festival, which draws over 40,000 attendees every year in South Pittsburg, TN, where Lodge Manufacturing is located. Recipes from grand-prize winners of the National Cornbread Cook-off like Bacon and Gorgonzola Cornbread Sliders with Chipotle Mayo and White Chicken Chili with Cheddar Hush-Puppy Crust fill this chapter as well as many other imaginative takes on this Southern staple!

An entire chapter on outdoor cooking: One of the amazing qualities of cast iron is that it can go with you most anywhere you want to cook and that includes the great outdoors. This chapter includes recipes for cooking on a grill (gas or charcoal), over an open fire, or in classic camping/Dutch oven style, surrounded top and bottom by coals. If you've never tried camp cooking before, this book teaches you the basics to get you started.

THE LODGE CAST IRON COOKBOOK is an affectionate, useful, entertaining, and delicious compendium of 200 cast iron cookery recipes-peppered with stories and treasured memories-collected from America's best cast iron cooks from coast to coast from one of America's most trusted brands.

Pick up your own copy of on Amazon here.

I think that this is my favorite recipe in the book! It looks so delicious!!! Well they all do really!

About Lodge:

Lodge Manufacturing, a family-owned, family-operated business, makes its home in South Pittsburg, Tennessee-a tiny community (pop 3,300) nestled alongside the Appalachian Mountains. Founded in 1896 by Joseph Lodge, Lodge has been manufacturing cast iron cookware for 116 years. Lodge is the ONLY American manufacturer of cast iron cookware ("America's Original Cookwareä") and has continued to flourish even in a tight economy. Lodge continues to release new products and offer the most extensive selection of quality cast iron cookware for America's kitchens, including the largest selection of cast iron skillets on the market, deep fryers, country kettles and more. When cooking outdoors, Lodge Cast Iron goes too, with camp Dutch ovens, griddles, combo cookers and grills of unparalleled quality. In 2003, Lodge released their first cookbook, A Skillet Full, and sold over 130,000 copies with limited distribution. For more information on Lodge Manufacturing, visit http://lodgemfg.com/

Nueva Cocina Review

2012-02-08T11:21:00.000-06:00

I recently received these samples in the mail to try out. So far I have tried the Chipotle Taco seasoning! It is so yummy! I def recommend that you give it a try.

We used this to make our Naan Tacos.

Take your hamburger meat, add the spices. Place on a warm Naan bread, top with refried beans, lettuce, cheese, tomatoes, onions, and sour cream if you like and enjoy!. So yummy.

Now that you have seen one option you can make with this product lets look at it in more detail!

Seasonings:
Their delicious and versatile seasonings are unlike other brands because they combine spices with chopped vegetables providing a gourmet quality, "casera" or homemade style seasoning mix. Click here to see the difference. And like all Nueva Cocina® products they are 100% natural, gluten free, with no MSG or preservatives.

Soup Mixes
Their delicious and versatile Nueva Cocina®Soup Mixes blend traditional Latin flavors with 100% natural ingredients. Nothing artificial, no MSG or preservatives!

Rice Mixes
Their delicious and versatile Nueva Cocina®Rice Mixes blend traditional Latin flavors with 100% natural ingredients. Nothing artificial, Gluten Free, no MSG or preservatives!

Check out Nueva Cocina Foods on facebook here and on Twitter here. To find their products and see what they have visit their site here.

Redneck Truck

2012-02-08T11:01:00.000-06:00

Ever wonder what a redneck's truck looks like?

Hehehe here you go!

Yes we really traveled like this. It took an hour to get from the south side to Edmond. This car has hauled a ton of things in its lifetime and still kickin!!!

Putting my new elliptical together!

2012-02-08T10:43:00.001-06:00

This took us over 3 hours to put together. Part of that time did include having to go back to the store to get a piece that came broken replaced.

Everyone working together to put this together!

Bottom part.

Getting there.

Almost.

Putting the finishing touches.

Complete!!! Yippie!!!

Combat Viruses and Bacteria with Immunity-boosting Foods from Your Kitchen

2012-02-07T14:26:00.000-06:00

It’s now peak time for the flu and colds, which grip millions of Americans each year. And contrary to common belief, the best way to combat viruses and bacteria is not in your medicine cabinet – it’s in your kitchen.

Topical BioMedics, makers of Topricin Pain Relief and Healing Cream, has partnered with Roufia Payman, the director of outpatient nutritional services at Northern Dutchess Hospital in Rhinebeck, NY, to provide a list of nutritional tips for top immunity-boosting foods that can help you achieve optimum healing and wellness.

We’ve all heard the saying “Starve a fever and feed a cold”…Or is it, “Feed a fever and starve a cold?” The actual phrase, which dates back to the middle 1500s, claims we should starve a fever and feed a cold. But there’s no reason to be confused because the good news is that starving is never the correct answer, making it easy to remember you should feed both.

Foods that are rich in nutrients may help keep you well, or if you do succumb to illness, will help your body fight off the infection.

For starters, it’s always a good idea to include more raw fruits and vegetables in your diet as they provide an abundance of all important antioxidants and phytochemicals.

Zinc is an important mineral, as well, as it has antioxidant effects plus is vital to the body’s resistance to infection and to stimulate the immune system. Foods rich in zinc include eggs, meats, nuts, seafood, seeds, wheat germ and whole grains.

The mineral selenium helps to boost immunity and increase your body’s production of cytokines, which help remove the flu virus. Selenium-rich foods include Brazil nuts and seafood, particularly lobster, oysters, crab, clams, tuna and cod.

It’s important to think protein, too. It’s vital to help build and repair tissue and fight viral and bacterial infections. Choose lean sources like skinless chicken, turkey, sardines, and beans, as well as a good-quality whey protein powder.

Here’s a list of top immunity-boosting foods for optimum healing and wellness.

NOTHING BEATS CHICKEN SOUP
Grandma was right – nothing beats chicken soup for fending off sniffles. Not only does it provide the fluids needed to help fight off viruses, it’s a powerful mucus stimulant so it helps clear nasal congestion as well as thin mucus. It’s also thought to have a mild anti-inflammatory effect than can help ease cold symptoms. Keep some organic chicken stock on hand, because studies have found that even commercial soup is as effective as homemade.

USE FLAVORFUL HEALERS
If you want to punch up the healing power of your chicken soup – or any other dish – add plenty of garlic and onions. When combined, these flavorful healers contain numerous antiseptic and immunity boosting compounds. As an added plus, garlic helps to open clogged sinuses.

‘SRHOOM IT AWAY
No herbal medicine cabinet should be without mushrooms. They increase the production of cytokines, which are cells that help fight off infection. They also contain polysaccharides, which are compounds that support the immune system. The most potent cold- and flu-fighting ‘shrooms are shitake, maitake and reishi.

“C” IS FOR CITRUS
Citrus fruits contain hefty doses of powerhouse vitamin C. Studies have found that this antioxidant can reduce cold symptoms by 23 percent, and all that’s needed is just one to eight grams (1,000 to 8,000 milligrams) to do the trick. Besides citrus fruits, other foods that have high amounts of vitamin C include papaya, sweet potatoes, butternut squash, tomatoes, broccoli, brussel sprouts and red bell peppers.

GO YOGURT
Studies have shown that eating a cup of low-fat yogurt each day can reduce your susceptibility to colds by 25 percent. The beneficial bacteria is Lactobacillus reuteri which has been found to block the replication of viruses that invade the body when we get sick. Not all brands have that particular bacteria, so check labels and be sure to go organic.

IMMUNE-BOOSTING SUPPLEMENTS
While yogurt is a great source of probiotics, some have more than others and we can really benefit by taking an additional supplement. Other immune-booster “musts” are vitamin D and Omega 3 fatty acid.

SIP WHEN YOU’RE SICK
Hot tea is soothing and a great home remedy, helping to thin mucus and ensure proper hydration. For added health benefit, sip green or black tea – both are filled with flavonoids, which are potent antioxidants.

GINGER AID
Ginger comes to the aid when we’re sick in some powerful ways. Besides soothing a scratchy throat, it has chemicals called sesquiterpenes that target rhinoviruses – which are the most common family of cold viruses – as well as substances that help suppress coughing. Ginger is also a natural pain and fever reducer and a mild sedative so you’ll feel more comfortable and be able to rest easier. Add a couple of tablespoons of shredded gingerroot to your tea, or make ginger tea (it comes in tea bags, but you can also simmer fresh sliced ginger to make a potent brew).

HONEY OF A CURE
Honey has numerous medicinal properties and because it coats your throat it is a natural way to soothe sore throats. It also has antioxidant and antimicrobial properties to help fight infections from viruses, bacteria, and fungi. Skip the common clover honey that you’ll find in the supermarket as it has the lowest antioxidant level. Look for buckwheat honey, which has the highest. (A note of caution: never give honey to children under one years of age because their immune systems are not developed enough to ward off infantile botulism, which is carried in honey spores.)

GET PEPPY
It’s ironic that black pepper – the spice best known for making you sneeze – can ward off the sniffles. Black peppercorns are high in piperine, a compound known for its anti-fever and pain-relieving qualities.

SPICE IT UP
Make recipes more flavorful with garlic, thyme, rosemary, sage and oregano – while spicing things up, you’ll also get an added kick of immune-busters, too.

Follow these tips, nourish yourself with these immunity-boosting foods and have a happy and healthy season.

Roufia Payman is a contributing columnist to Natural Healing, Natural Wellness, a newsletter published by Topical BioMedics featuring insight from experts in various health fields. The newsletter is available free at www.topricin.com. Sign up to receive updates when a new issue of the newsletter is published as well as other news and information.

Topricin is available in pharmacies, natural food stores and other fine retailers nationwide, including Whole Foods, Vitamin Shoppe, Vitamin World, Fred Meyer, Wegmans, and other retail stores throughout the U.S., as well as direct from the Topical BioMedics’ online store.

To learn more about Topricin, go to http://www.topricin.com.

Old Photos

2012-02-07T14:06:00.000-06:00

Do you have any old photos laying around that you like? I recently saw one my dad posted on Facebook. It was me when I was born!

How young my mom looks!! :)

Look how cute I am!!!

Coconut Cake

2012-02-07T14:04:00.001-06:00

This is also called a 1-2-3-4 cake, but I used coconut so I call it a coconut cake.

1-2-3-4 CAKE

1 c unsalted butter (room temp.)

1 7/8 c sugar

4 large eggs, separated (room temp.)

2 2/3 c all purpose flour

2 tsp baking powder

2/3 tsp salt

1 c milk

2 tsp vanilla

Beat butter until light, add sugar slowly. Beat in egg yokes one at a time. Beat all until very fluffy.

Sift flour, baking powder and salt together. Add to butter mixture in thirds, alternating with the milk, 2/3 c at a time. Stir in vanilla.

Beat egg whites until stiff and fold into batter.

Pour into 3 9" cake pans. Bake in preheated 350° oven for 30 mins. until golden brown and edges pull slightly from sides of pan. For a 5 layer cake, bake at 375° for 20 min. on next to highest rack in oven. Let cool about 5 min. on a rack, then invert, and turn out. Let cool completely and ice.

This cake can be flavored as a coconut cake by substituting with 1/2 c coconut milk with the regular milk.

Fluffy Icing

2 c sugar

2/3 c water

1/2 tsp cream of tarter

4 large egg whites

2 tsp vanilla (or lemon, or almond)

pinch of salt

1/2 c raisins, currants, pecans optional

Combine sugar, water, and salt in saucepan. Bring to boil and cook 5 min. Beat egg whites and cream of tarter until frothy. Continue to beat and slowly pour the very hot syrup over the whites. Continue beating at high speed to form stiff, glossy peaks. If making a coconut cake, substitute coconut milk for the water. Makes enough to ice 6 split layers or a 5 layer cake.

Recipe submitted by Ellen Smith

Submit yours to okcmomto3@gmail.com

What's for Lunch?

2012-02-07T13:46:00.000-06:00

Today guess what I am having???

Come on guess....

Yup your right! More Steamers!!! hehehe

With this one my favorite was the snap peas! So yummy.

Healthy Me Update! 2-7-12

2012-02-07T13:44:00.000-06:00

Its on like Donkey Kong!!! heheheh I have shown myself dedicated enough to go out and purchase an elliptical. I have a treadmill but it was from a friend who got it from a friend who got a new one because something was wrong with it. So when you walk on it, it smells like rubber burning. No one in the house wants to sit and smell that. Plus its super loud.

I am so excited and cannot wait to put it together and start using it. (This in no way replaces the gym for me. I will still be going daily during my lunch.)

Here is what I got. I purchased it from Academy Sports and Outdoors.

Here are the specs..

The ProForm ZE5 Elliptical features 16 built-in workouts certified by personal trainers and 12 digital resistance levels to make it easy to vary your workouts and dual-grip EKG™ heart rate monitor with handlebar sensors to keep you on pace for your target heart rate. The Intermix Acoustics™ 2.0 built-in sound system delivers rich, equalized sound, and the Interplay™ Music Port makes it easy to plug in your iPod or MP3 player. The CoolAire™ workout fan is built into the console to help keep you cool and comfortable while you work up a sweat.

Features and Benefits

16 built-in workouts, including categories like timed and weight loss, are designed by personal trainers
iFIT workout card technology provide additional interactive workouts designed by certified trainers (cards sold separately)
Upper-body arms help burn calories and add muscle tone for a total-body workout
Adjustable stride lengths, including 13", 15" and 18", allow you to reposition the stride for a great fit
Oversize pedals allow for a number of different foot positions and provide stability while you work out
LCD monitor displays speed, time, distance, pulse and calories burned so you can easily monitor your progress
Intermix Acoustics™ 2.0 built-in sound system delivers rich, equalized sound; the Interplay™ Music Port lets you plug in your iPod or MP3 player
Dual-grip EKG™ heart rate monitor keeps track of your heart rate with built-in handlebar sensors
CoolAire™ workout fan is built into the console for easy adjustment and helps you stay cool and comfortable during your workout
13 lb. inertia-enhanced flywheel delivers a smooth, natural feel
SpaceSaver® design allows you to fold up the machine's base and pedals for quick and efficient storage

So now at night while watching my favorite show I plan to be riding this machine. :)

What's for Lunch?

2012-02-03T11:17:00.000-06:00

Today I had Green Giant Steamers. Broccoli, Carrots, Cauliflower & Cheese Sauce. Total Calories: 135

Help us support the American Heart Association!

2012-02-03T09:40:00.000-06:00

From now until the end of American Heart Month on Feb. 29, send an e-card and help us support the American Heart Association (AHA)! For every e-card sent, CanolaInfo will donate $0.20 to the AHA up to $20,000. The money will help the AHA meet its goal to improve the heart health of all Americans by 20 percent while reducing deaths from cardiovascular disease and stroke by 20 percent by the year 2020.

Do your part by going to www.canolainfo.org/heartcard and sending an e-card to someone you care about.

It is free and you can help save lives!

Click here for delicious heart-healthy recipes from CanolaInfo!

Healthy Me Update! 2-2-12

2012-02-02T11:33:00.000-06:00

Last night I had some calories left over so I made me a healthy dessert.

This is a small tub of Greek Yogurt, 1 cup of frozen fruit (any kind), and 1/4 cup of juice (I used Apple Cider). Then mix in a blender and serve. 190 Calories

In other news.. I weighed in again today. (yes I know don't do it everyday) And it showed a 1.5 loss.

What's for Lunch?

2012-02-02T11:27:00.000-06:00

Today I had green giant again. With two hard boiled egg whites. I had to incorporate them somehow they were going to go bad.

What's for Dinner?

2012-02-02T11:26:00.000-06:00

Last night for dinner we had a delicious Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup!

I wish i had a recipe to share but sadly I do not. :(

What's for Lunch?

2012-02-01T11:15:00.000-06:00

Lunch today is a veggie burger on a sandwich round with broccoli spears in butter sauce!

Calorie total: 310

A couple words of wisdom to share!

2012-02-01T10:44:00.002-06:00

Healthy Me Update! 2-1-12

2012-02-01T08:19:00.000-06:00

Hey folks its Weigh in Wednesday!!! What do you think the scale will tell me today! Lets see....

Gotta love it!!!

So since this is the first day of the month. My previous goal was to get to 212 by the end of February. I am more than certain I will do was beyond that. If I lost 2 lbs per week I would make it to 207 by the end of Feb!

Sweet & Savory Valentine's Day Recipes

2012-01-31T14:37:00.000-06:00

With Valentine's day coming up, here are some new recipes developed with love for you and your loved ones to enjoy - even if they're lactose intolerant or eating gluten-free:

Heart-Shaped Blinis with Smoked Salmon and Lemon Caper Sour Cream
Our ultra-creamy sour cream mixed with capers and zesty lemon adds the perfect touch to these savory appetizer bites. Got some gluten-free guests? Simply substitute your favorite gluten-free all-purpose baking flour blend and one teaspoon xanthan gum for the all-purpose flour or use gluten free Buckwheat.

Sour Cream Chocolate Cake with Cherry Vanilla Yogurt Sauce
Rich, chocolaty and decidedly decadent, our no-fail sour cream chocolate cake is oh-so-moist and lactose free (thanks to our silky sour cream) and begs for a fork when topped with sweet-n-tangy cherry vanilla yogurt sauce. Share a heart-shaped cake with your sweetheart for the perfect way to say "I love you" on Valentine's Day. Going gluten free? Simply substitute your favorite gluten-free all-purpose baking mix and one teaspoon xanthan gum for the all-purpose flour.

You can find these and more great recipes online at http://greenvalleylactosefree.com/products/recipes.php and http://www.redwoodhill.com/recipes.

There are a lot of reasons to love Redwood Hill Farm and Green Valley Organics Lactose Free:

They're dedicated to producing healthful, all natural and delicious specialty dairy products free of preservatives, coloring, stabilizers and made with only 100% fresh milk at a solar powered creamery
Woman-owned, family operated and sustainably farmed since 1968
Certified Humane, Kosher certified and free of artificial sugar or powdered milk
Learn more about their pledge to you, their employees, contributing dairies and sustainability athttp://www.redwoodhill.com/about-us/our-pledge-to-you

"Kids Who Love to Cook" Season Two!

2012-01-31T14:07:00.002-06:00

Webseries Launches New Season, Contests and More

New York (January 27, 2012) “Kids Who Love to Cook” is launching its second season of webisodes and cooking videos. The newly-launched website and cooking series takes you into the kitchen with seven real-life kids to show their love of food and to teach viewers about cooking, and how to bring the family together at home. The website and series, which feature kids cooking videos, recipes, food adventures and contests, for the beginner cook, future chefs, and foodies can be found online at www .kidswholovetocook .com

“Season two has some amazing things in store for our viewers from Baked Chicken, Pain Au Chocolate Bread Pudding, Mussels Three Ways, and Ricotta Pancakes,” said 13 year-old Abby. “It’s so much fun for me to be able to cook for people and help them learn to love new things just like I do! We even did a chocolate episode to show where chocolate comes from.”

“Kids Who Love to Cook” embraces personal preferences and encourages kids to prepare food from their family history, as well as new ideas and trends like gluten-free and vegetarian dishes. All dishes seen on “Kids Who Love to Cook” are easily prepared and enjoyed at home. The show does not use swap-outs — the dishes that are shown in the end are the actual dishes made by the kids.

“Kids Who Love to Cook” is not just a webseries, but a community which holds auditions for new “cooks,” cooking camps, events and auditions for new additions to the team. The dynamic web site takes user submissions and tips, as well as tips and how-tos along side the webisodes. “Kids Who Love to Cook” is currently running an online contest to submit your favorite apple dish – winners will receive an iPad and “star” in a video with Abby and Isabelle. More info can be found here - Apple Dish Contest.

About Kids Who Love to Cook:

“Kids Who Love to Cook” is a unique webseries and dynamic website, created to encourage kids aged 8 to 16 to have an appreciation of, and relationship with good food, while teaching important life lessons: planning, budgeting, measuring, cooking, and being creative and able to adapt when presented with challenges. For more information, please visit www .kidswholovetocook .com.

Sure to Please Valentine’s Day Dessert Recipes for Your Sweetie & You

2012-01-31T13:54:00.000-06:00

Anna Zoitas definitely has a flair for fulfilling people’s palates with unusual culinary delights.

Here she offers up a number of absolutely exquisite mouth-watering and soul satisfying recipes for Valentine’s Day all accented with one of more of her amazing creations in The Artisanal Kitchen

Cinnamon Poached Pears with Apple Caramel, Pecans and Crystallized Ginger

Description:. An aromatic, flavorful and light dessert.

Ingredients: pears, apple juice, pecans, dried cranberries, crystallized ginger, salt

Recipe:

6 pears

1 qt. apple juice

garnish:

¼ c pecans

¼ c dried cranberries

¼ c The Artisanal Kitchen Crystallized ginger

Pour the apple juice (poaching liquid) into a large pot and bring to a simmer.

Peal, halve and scoop out the core or the pears, try to leave the stems intact. Place the pear halves in the poaching liquid for 30 minutes, or until toothpick tender.

While the poached pears are cooling, take about 1 cup of the poaching liquid and pour into a sauté pan. Over medium-high flame, reduce for about 10 minutes, whisking sporadically. Liquid should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.

Once pears are cooled, plate two halves per container, one half cut side down and the other cut side up. Drizzle reduced poaching liquid into pear well and lightly over both halves. Sprinkle pecans, cranberries, and crystallized ginger, chopped if you’d like. Optional: garnish with a sprig of mint as well.

Olive oil and Lemon Curd Cake

Description:. Rich and moist with fruitful hints of savory olive oil.

Ingredients: Flour, eggs, olive oil, sugar, heavy cream, lemon curd, greek yoghurt, fresh orange juice, fresh lemon juice, butter, lemon zest, baking powder, salt.

1 ½ cups Flour

3 large Eggs

½ cup Three Olives Olive Oil

1 cup sugar

½ cup heavy cream

½ cup lemon curd

½ cup Greek yoghurt

2 tablespoons fresh orange juice

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

½ stick butter

2 teaspoon lemon zest

2 tea spoons baking powder

Pinch of Artisanal Kitchen Pacific Ocean Salt

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

Melt butter, set aside. Cream sugar, eggs and butter for about 3 minutes. Add dry ingredients in sections, do not over mix. Incorporate the rest of the ingredients.

Pour batter into parchment lined and olive oiled baking dish. Bake for 40 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.

“Just Right” Banana Crisps-Chocolate-Fruit Jumbles

How do you Jum-Ble?

These deliciously-fun, crunchy, chunky bursting with fruit sweets combine classic favorites that are sure to delight children of all ages, up to 101. Serve in paper muffin pan cups or eat with your fingers and a big glass of milk.

Ingredients:

· ½ cup semisweet baking chocolate

· 1 cup Artisanal Banana Crisps (or you can use sweet-n-tart mango, pineapple or coconut flavors)

· ¼ cup mixed dried fruits, like raisins, cherries or cranberries

· ¼ cup roasted salted peanuts, coarsely chopped

Directions:

Melt the chocolate in a covered double boiler over low heat, stirring occasionally until smooth, or microwave in a non-metallic bowl until melted. Stir until smooth. Remove from heat and gently mix in Artisanal Banana Crisps, dried fruits and peanuts.

Drop by tablespoonful’s into mounds on cookie sheet lined with wax paper. Refrigerate until set. Makes about 10 clusters. Store in an airtight container.

“Addictively Delicious” Coconut-Ginger Crisps, Toffee-Like Cookies

The best cookies you may ever experience. These thin, crunchy, chewy Artisanal Coconut-Ginger Crisps cookies have a toffee-like flavor from the slightly-caramelized sugar and butter that are “addictively delicious.” Incredibly easy to make in only one saucepan.

Ingredients:

· ¼ cup butter (1/2 stick)

· 1/3 cup granulated sugar

· 1 tablespoon maple syrup

· ½ teaspoon baking soda

· 1/3 cup all-purpose flour

· 1 cup Coconut Crisps

· ¼ cup Artisanal Kitchen crystallized ginger, chopped

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350° F. Line 2 cookie sheets with parchment paper.

In a medium saucepan, melt butter with sugar and maple syrup over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat; stir in baking soda. Stir in flour just until smooth; stir in Artisanal Coconut Crisps and crystallized ginger.

Drop batter by heaping teaspoons onto prepared cookie sheets, 2 inches apart. Bake 10 to 14 minutes, 1 cookie sheet at a time, until cookies are a light, golden brown.

Cool cookies on parchment on wire racks. Makes about 1 ½ dozen cookies. Store in an airtight container.

What's for Lunch?

2012-01-31T11:12:00.000-06:00

Today I am having a Pimento Cheese sandwich on Nature's Own 100% Whole Grain Sandwich Round. With Sour Cream and Onion rice cakes. (Does not taste like the chips like I had hoped.. I do like the BBQ kind though)
Lunch Calories: 320

Strawberry Shortcake

2012-01-31T09:37:00.001-06:00

Strawberry Shortcake


1 quart (4 cups) strawberries, sliced
1/4 cup sugar
2 1/3 cups Original Bisquick® mix
1/2 cup milk
3 tablespoons sugar
3 tablespoons butter or margarine, melted
1/2 cup whipping cream

Heat oven to 425°F. In large bowl, mix strawberries and 1/4 cup sugar; set aside.
In medium bowl, stir Bisquick mix, milk, 3 tablespoons sugar and the butter until soft dough forms. On ungreased cookie sheet, drop dough by 6 spoonfuls,.
Bake 10 to 12 minutes or until golden brown. Meanwhile, in small bowl, beat whipping cream with electric mixer on high speed until soft peaks form, I added about 1 teaspoon sugar.
Split warm shortcakes; fill and top with strawberries and whipped cream.
Before baking I melted 1 tablespoon butter and brushed the top of each, I then sprinkled sugar in the raw on top.

These are the shortcakes.

The whip cream.

The finished product without whipped cream.

I had this but did not have sugar in my strawberries. Just a healthier option.

Recipe submitted by Ellen Smith. Submit your own at okcmomto3@gmail.com

Eggies Review

2012-01-31T09:34:00.000-06:00

So I saw a commerical awhile back before Christmas for a product called Eggies. I wanted it so bad! I saw it at Walmart and of course it was cheaper than ordering over the phone so I grabbed it.

I could not wait to try it out.

I followed the instructions, washed them, then you have to put a spray in them so they fall out easily. (I did this time but will see what happened when I dont.. I may have a big mess on my hands)

I filled up each container.

Then placed them in water and boiled them for 15 minutes.

They came out really easily.

This is what the final product looks like.

I do have to say though I think these are more trouble then they are worth. Because of course now I have to wash all of the Eggie things.

What's for Breakfast?

2012-01-31T08:52:00.000-06:00

Today I am having an english muffin with peanut butter on it.

190 calories

Beef enchiladas

2012-01-30T17:33:00.003-06:00

Beef enchiladas

1 lb. browned ground beef

1 pkg taco seasoning (water according to pkg)

8-10 flour tortillas

1 can chili (no beans)

1 can enchilada sauce

2 cups Mexican blend cheese

Brown 1 lb. beef in skillet, add taco seasoning and water according to pkg. Cook until liquid is almost evaporated. Place beef in flour tortilla, roll up and place in 9 x 13” pan seam side down. Mix can of chili and enchilada sauce, mash with fork to break up chili meat. Spoon over enchiladas and top with Mexican cheese. Bake 350 for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted. Serve with chopped onion, diced tomatoes or what ever toppings you like.

Recipe submitted by Ellen Smith (my mama). Submit yours to okcmomto3@gmail.com

What's for Lunch?

2012-01-30T11:46:00.000-06:00

Today I am having Green Giant Valley Fresh Steamers. Roasted Red Potatoes, Green Beans, and Rosemary butter Sauce. YUMMO!

New neighbors

2012-01-30T09:30:00.000-06:00

We got new neighbors and they have two kids so that is nice. Yesterday all the kids were out playing together!

I love seeing kids being active!!

Healthy Me Update! 1-30-12

2012-01-30T09:20:00.000-06:00

So yesterday I weighed in and saw another drop on the scale!! Yippie!!

Not to bad I should say. I am almost halfway to my next goal!

Where does pumpkin pie come from?

2012-01-28T08:47:00.000-06:00

Funny you should ask... I know the answer.

I thought that was too funny!

What's for Lunch?

2012-01-27T11:41:00.000-06:00

This was only 279 calories. This is tuna with a tsp of mayo, tomato's, lettuce, and a sandwich rounds.

I forgot my pickles.

Enter to win with Jasco Products!

2012-01-27T11:18:00.000-06:00

Enter to win JascoProducts Fan of the Week LED Night Light. Just like them on Facebook to enter.

Do you believe in Mom?

2012-01-27T10:04:00.000-06:00

I just wanted to share this. I saw it on Facbook.

What's for Breakfast?

2012-01-27T08:47:00.000-06:00

Today I had an english muffin with natural peanut butter and a banana. See it looks like a smiley face its so healthy!!!!

Healthy Options at the Store

2012-01-27T08:45:00.000-06:00

Today I went to do a little grocery shopping before work. I think I choose wisely. Don't you think?

The english muffins are 100 calories but have so much fiber and not much sugar at all. The veggies are of course good as are the bananas. I got the mayo with olive oil! I love olive oil. The dole iceberg lettuce is not good or bad really. I know it does not have any nutrients but it was $.99. The 100% whole grain will be good for my sandwich today. (Ugh I just remembered I forgot pickles) The tomato is for lunch as well. Then we come to the peanut butter. I choose an all natural one. The kind that the oil goes to the top. I am unsure how I feel about this. I had it for breakfast and you can sure tell they did not add any sugar. You would think the sugar from the banana would adjust that but it did not really. But I will get used to it. I'm just used to the bad stuff right now.
So healthy choices all around.

Ellie Krieger, New York Times Bestselling Author and Host of “Healthy Appetite” Offers Healthy Versions of Classic American Comfort Food Dishes

2012-01-27T08:36:00.000-06:00

Comfort Food Fix Now In Stores Everywhere

You don’t often hear a Registered Dietitian say nothing is ever “off limits,” but Ellie Krieger believes just that. With a philosophy of “usually-sometimes-rarely”, Krieger is all about incorporating your favorite foods into a healthy lifestyle. To this end, Ellie has created Comfort Food Fix: Feel Good Favorites Made Healthy (Wiley Hardcover; $29.99), a collection of healthy versions of comfort food classics. Here Ellie provides 150 soul-satisfying recipes including hearty favorites like meatloaf, lasagna, chicken pot pie, crab cakes, mac and cheese, mashed potatoes, and more -- all without the calories and saturated fat.

Ellie has every meal covered: There are recipes for breakfast, brunch and baked goods; snacks and starters; soups and sandwiches; meat, poultry, seafood, and vegetarian main dishes; sides and salads; and of course desserts. Each recipe contains complete nutrition information and calorie counts along with a side-by-side comparison of Ellie’s healthy version of the recipe versus a typical version of the recipe. You’ll be amazed at how simple substitutions can dramatically reduce both the caloric content of these recipes as well their saturated fat, sodium, and cholesterol counts, while increasing healthy nutrients and antioxidants – all without sacrificing flavor and the comfort food experience that we’ve all come to expect from these classic dishes.

Everyone loves fried chicken – Ellie’s version, “Honey-Crisp Oven-Fried Chicken”, is lower in calories, saturated fat, cholesterol, and sodium than a traditional version of fried chicken – but with the same crisp golden perfection that is sure to satisfy any fried chicken craving. Using skinless chicken thighs, low-fat buttermilk, corn flakes for crunch, honey, tons of spicy flavor, and baking the chicken rather than frying, Ellie reduces the calorie intake of this classic from 560 to 330 calories.

How does she do it? Ellie breaks down her “make healthy” strategy into “15 Fix Factors,” many of which she applies in her “Honey-Crisp Oven-Fried Chicken” recipe, including:

Get Creamy (Nearly) Creamlessly – Use low-fat milk thickened with flour or cornstarch, along with evaporated milk for cream sauces, soups, and puddings; reduced-fat sour cream also ups the cream factor with less fat and no artificial ingredients

Un-Fry – Lightly bread, toss or spray with oil, and then bake to achieve that craveable crispness

Oil Well – Use antioxidant-rich extra-virgin olive oil or a neutral tasting canola oil for stir fries and baking

Sweeten Smartly – Use unrefined sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, and molasses; these give your blood sugar a gentler rise, but use them sparingly

Repro-Portion – Measure out servings and keep an eye on portions; most of us have grown accustomed to much bigger servings of food than we need

With full nutrition information for every recipe and gorgeous full-color photos that are sure to whet any appetite, Comfort Food Fix will have you eating healthier versions of your favorite comfort food dishes without any of the guilt.

Her first “Eating with Ellie” column came out in yesterday’s issue of USA Today (see it here) and her USA Weekend cover story which comes out this weekend, will be packed with superbowl goodies that are delicious, man-approved and healthy. You can check out the accompanying online video featuring Ellie’s entertaining tips here.

ABOUT ELLIE KRIEGER:
Host of the Food Network’s hit show “Healthy Appetite,” now on the Cooking Channel, Ellie’s warmth and charisma have made her the leading go-to nutritionist, with a lifestyle emphasis, in the media today. Krieger’s success can be attributed to her unique way of offering real life advice without any of the gimmicks and crash diets that permeate the media today. She reaches people with her message that it is possible for anyone, given the tools and knowledge, to live life to the maximum by keeping a healthy balance and nurturing a richly satisfying and sumptuous, attainable lifestyle. Ellie’s 2005 book Small Changes Big Results was a how-to on easy-to-live-with habit changes that yield optimal results. Ellie’s second book, The Food You Crave: Luscious Recipes for a Healthy Life, was an immediate New York Times bestseller, peaking at #2 on that list. In addition to being named to Amazon’s Customer Bestseller List for 2008, The Food You Crave won the 2009 IACP Cookbook award and the esteemed 2009 James Beard Foundation Award for “Best Cookbook with a Healthy Focus.” Her last book, So Easy: Luscious Healthy Recipes for Every Meal of the Week, also became an instant New York Times bestseller.

For more on Ellie visit www.EllieKrieger.com

Harbaugh Wives Team Up with Skinny CowT Candy to Provide the Perfect Fourth Quarter Treat

2012-01-27T08:21:00.000-06:00

Harbaugh Wives Kick-Off Game Day With Skinny Cow™ Candy For An In-Game Treat

Fourth quarter snacking has never been so scrumptious and carefree as with NEW! Skinny Cow Candy

GLENDALE, Calif., (January 27, 2012) – Men, make room for the ladies on game day! According to a Nielsen Company survey, nearly 70% of American women will watch the biggest football game of the season this year1. But in a recent survey of women ages 35-54 who are planning to watch on game day, 64% believe that traditional game day party menus are lacking. Sure, there are chips and wings, but no fourth quarter treats – where’s the chocolate? Skinny Cow Candy has teamed up two of the most knowledgeable women in football, Sarah and Ingrid Harbaugh, wives of brothers and rival head coaches Jim and John Harbaugh, to find the perfect game plan.
“Chips, dip and fried fatty foods are synonymous with traditional game day menus,” said Ingrid Harbaugh. “Now, with more women watching the game, we need a menu designed for us, starting with lower calorie options and delicious chocolate, of course!”
Thirty-five percent of women admit to craving lighter alternatives to heavy appetizers, and 13% crave guilt free chocolate treats. After the holidays and New Year’s resolutions, nothing fits the fourth quarter hunger better than the amazing taste, perfect size, and 120 calories or less of NEW Skinny Cow Dreamy Clusters and Heavenly Crisps. Don’t have a candy bowl divine enough to hold these new, decadent treats? Sarah and Ingrid helped create 25 custom-made, limited edition Skinny Cow Candy Bowls to be auctioned on www.eBay.com/skinnycowcandy starting today through February 5. All proceeds will go to CureSearch for Children’s Cancer, a charity dear to the Harbaugh family.
“Ingrid and I know football and we also know how to throw the ultimate stress-free bash that we women can enjoy too,” said Sarah Harbaugh. “Every football team has a game plan and so should you.”

Skinny Cow Candy Game Plan
1. Intercept Planning Stress

Create a playbook. Make a shopping list and take advantage of coupons and sales at your local grocery store before game day.

2. Kick off a Potluck Party

Get your guests involved and make it a potluck party. Ask each guest bring his or her favorite football food or snack, and divide responsibilities by quarter.

3. Tackle Cravings

Game day parties are notoriously known for an abundance of fried foods and fatty appetizers, so keep a candy bowl full of yummy and carefree Skinny Cow Candy accessible. Keep it out throughout the game to ensure there is always something deliciously sweet to savor!

4. Making Smart Plays

With 41% of women trying to avoid the traditional high calorie food typically found on game day menus, small lineup changes can go a long way. Choosing low-fat cheese for your cheeseburger, substituting creamy fat-free Greek yogurt instead of sour cream in your famous dip, and reaching for tasty Skinny Cow Candy are just a few ways to enjoy the big game AND your snacks.

Add these delectable, 120 calorie or less delights from the Skinny Cow Candy line to your game day menu:
Skinny Cow™ Dreamy Clusters – bite-sized treats with crunchy crisps, drenched in creamy caramel, and covered in either rich, milk chocolate or decadent dark chocolate
Skinny Cow™ Heavenly Crisp candy bars – delicate wafers layered with either smooth, creamy chocolate or peanut butter filling and drenched in a luscious chocolatey coating

All four Skinny Cow Candy flavors are currently available nationwide with a suggested retail price of $0.99 for single candy bars and $4.29 for take home boxes. For additional product or nutritional information, visit www.skinnycow.com.
Log onto facebook.com/skinnycow for game day party tips and instructions on how to bid on one of the 25 exclusive Skinny Cow Candy Bowls.

SKINNY COW CANDY SURVEY
From January 17 to January 19 2012, an online survey was conducted among a sample of 502 American women aged 35-54 years who are planning on watching the biggest football game of the season this year, and who are Springboard America panel members. The margin of error — which measures sampling variability — is +/- 4.37%, 19 times out of 20. The sample was balanced by age, gender and region according to the most recent census data. Discrepancies in or between totals are due to rounding.
About The Skinny Cow Brand

So much satisfying deliciousness to choose from! The Skinny Cow brand is a decadent portfolio of NEW! fewer calorie candy bars and clusters, and frozen snacks, including ice cream sandwiches, ice cream cones, ice cream cups and ice cream bars. Unlike other “better for you” alternatives, Skinny Cow frozen snacks and candies don’t skimp on flavor and are a great tasting, “no-trade off” alternative. With Skinny Cow, you really can have it all! For additional product news and information, visit www.skinnycow.com.

About Nestlé USA
Named one of “The World’s Most Admired Food Companies” in Fortune magazine for fourteen consecutive years, Nestlé provides quality brands and products that bring flavor to life every day. From nutritious meals with LEAN CUISINE® to baking traditions with NESTLÉ® TOLL HOUSE®, Nestlé USA makes delicious, convenient, and nutritious food and beverage products that make good living possible. That’s what “Nestlé. Good Food, Good Life” is all about. Well-known Nestlé USA brands include: NESTLÉ® TOLL HOUSE®, NESTLÉ® NESQUIK®, NESTLÉ® COFFEE-MATE®, STOUFFER’S®, LEAN CUISINE®, HOT POCKETS® and LEAN POCKETS® brand sandwiches, NESCAFÉ®, NESTLÉ® JUICY JUICE®, BUITONI®, DREYER’S/EDY’S®, NESTLÉ® CRUNCH®, NESTLÉ® BUTTERFINGER®, WONKA®, DIGIORNO®, TOMBSTONE® and CALIFORNIA PIZZA KITCHEN® frozen pizza. Nestlé USA, with 2010 sales of $10.4 billion, is part of Nestlé S.A. in Vevey, Switzerland — the world’s largest food company with a commitment to Nutrition, Health & Wellness — with 2010 sales of $105 billion. For product news and information, visit Nestleusa.com or NestleNewsroom.com.

Notes

1. Source: The Nielsen Company 2011. Live + Same Day Viewing.

Tips for a Delicious and Vital 2012

2012-01-26T09:24:00.000-06:00

While you can’t wave a magic wand and make your New Year’s resolutions come true, there are easy steps to take that will make it easier to fulfill your promise to yourself to transform your health, energy and body.

Topical BioMedics, the maker’s of Topricin Pain Relief and Healing Cream encourages wellness and has teamed with Alexandra Jamieson, celebrity health and nutrition counselor, chef and author of The Great American Detox Diet, Living Vegan for Dummies and Vegan Cooking for Dummies to provide some health tips for a delicious and vital 2012.

1. Get Clear

In order to transform your health, energy and body, you need to take stock of where you are now, what you’re eating and what you want to change.

Write down everything. How you feel when you wake up? What cravings you have? What your diet is like? What is your exercise routine (if any)? What do you like to feel and look like?

2. Get Support

Talk with someone who has been there before. Read the blogs of experts, watch inspiring movies online or listen to radio shows on the area of health that interests you the most. Find a “tribe” of people who are dedicated to making the same changes you want to accomplish.

There is power in joining forces – they’ll pull you along, and you’ll help them at the same time.

3. Make a Plan

Do you want to eat more vegetables? Eat less sugar? Kick your caffeine habit completely? Do you want to lose 20 pounds, or clear up your skin?

What is the first step towards your goal? If it’s eating less sugar, maybe it’s time to learn about natural foods that give you the sweet sensation you’re looking for without robbing your energy (more on that in a minute).

Or maybe you need to throw away the sweets or chocolates lingering from the holidays. Or maybe there’s something in your lifestyle that triggers your sugar cravings that you can address in a non-food-way.

Whatever the issue is, there are steps you can take to make it a non-issue: start brain-storming on what to do first, then what you can do tomorrow, and in no time you’ll be free and clear.

4. Be Seasonal

Use seasonal, local produce as much as possible.

When you eat veggies from a nearby farm, they offer you the energy and nutrients that support you where you are and when you are.

For example, eating iceberg lettuce and watermelon north of the 45th parallel in winter does not support your body in the cold, sunless months. Instead, choose winter squash, cabbage, other hearty wintergreens, and apples and pears that winter over well. These fruits and veggies give you great, fresh nutrition rather than arriving depleted from half way across the world.

5. Sleep More

The human body is built to follow natural rhythms. Our inner body clock, called circadian rhythm, triggers the natural impulses to wake up with the sun, sleep when it’s dark, as well as a host of other natural body processes.

When your natural circadian rhythm is thrown off, due to jet lag or just staying up too late night after night, your body and brain work at half-speed, and your body feels off balance. Years of staying up late and not getting enough sleep during the darker, winter months, makes caffeine necessary, and cravings for sugar more intense.

This winter, try an experiment: go to bed early and wake up early. Get into bed by 9pm and wake up at 4 or 5am. Even a few days a week of this pattern will help you feel more refreshed, healthier, and those intense food cravings will release their hold on you just a bit more.

6. Make Breakfast a Priority

Now that you’re sleeping better, you can wake up earlier and get a good breakfast in your body. Everyone is different and you might need something that your partner or child doesn’t like or desire. Experiment with different types of food for your morning meal, alternating savory, sweet, liquid or combination breakfasts.

You might notice that a protein rich meal keeps you filled longer. Or perhaps you find that a light meal of fruit and herbal tea is perfect.

Try it out and notice what happens during the day with your cravings. Your first meal can determine your energy for the rest of the day.

7. Skip the White Foods

Any white, refined food is going to steal nutrients and energy from your body. This includes white flour, white sugar, and white table salt.

All of these foods are stripped of nutrition, vitamins and minerals, and offer only the jolt of carbohydrate or sodium. Without any supportive nutrients, your body must draw on its own precious stores to metabolize the refined food, leading to depleted energy over time.

8. Sweeten the Deal

Use more naturally sweet foods instead of relying on white foods, candy, and soda for energy.

Include sweet root veggies, fruits and even whole grains to satisfy your sweet cravings.

Sweet potatoes offer carotenoid antioxidant and help your body respond to insulin better. Parsnips are high in silicon and fiber and are high in calcium. Beets are high in boron, a mineral critical for the production of human sex hormones.

Adding daily doses of sweet veggies, you’ll crave less sugary treats, and you’ll be giving your body necessary nutrients for long-term health.

9. Move Your Body Like Your Life Depends On It – Because it Does

Whatever form of exercise you choose: running, walking, swimming, biking, dancing, weight lifting or machines – just move. Daily. As if it were your last day on earth.

If you incorporate anything from the list above you will be on your way to preserving or regaining your health and vitality in the New Year.

10. Are you in pain? Reach for Topricin.

Their mission is to relieve pain and restore quality of life - safely and with no side effects. Topricin® is formulated without parabens, petroleum or other harmful ingredients. The information you find here will start you on the road to recovery and discovery. You have the power to take control of your life — just imagine living pain free. Find out more about the greatest breakthrough in pain relief science.

Look for Topricin in pharmacies, natural food stores and other fine retailers nationwide, including Whole Foods, Vitamin Shoppe, Vitamin World, Fred Meyer, Wegmans, and other retail stores throughout the U.S., as well as direct from the Topical BioMedics’ online store.

I have been using Topricin for a week or so now and I really think it works great. I used it for my back pain. I was at a birthday party and since breaking my sacrum in 2009 I have never been the same. I cannot stand up for long periods of time. At this birthday party it was outside and not many places to sit. I started hurting really quickly. So I went and applied Topricin and was able to stand up pretty much without any pain. My daughters arm was hurting really bad one night so I applied the JR Topricin and she said it felt better. Also, a friend at work has been having shoulder pains for awhile. So I let her try it and she said it helped!

To learn more about Topricin, go to http://www.topricin.com.

What's for Dinner?

2012-01-26T08:39:00.000-06:00

Last night we had a left overs lasagna. It was really good. I even brought some to work for lunch today.

We took left overs from this meal. Which you can find here.

Add some lasagna noodles, Steak Eze meat, and a lot of spices and whala! You have left overs lasagna! the good news! The kids liked it!

My favorite song at the moment! #Music

2012-01-25T12:27:00.000-06:00

So right now I have a favorite song and its Bruno Mars It will Rain. My kids are too funny. I was listening to it while cooking dinner this past weekend and kept replaying it over and over. That's just what I do when I have a favorite song. So my oldest walks in and says you know you have played that three times now! So for their sake I played something else. But I am sure you want to hear this so I will play it for you!!

What's for Lunch?

2012-01-25T11:53:00.000-06:00

Today I am having the Green Giant Garden Vegetable Medley. Roasted potatoes, Sugar Snap Peas, Red Peppers, and Garden Herbs. I have to say it is very delicious!

Quality Time with Hubby

2012-01-25T08:24:00.000-06:00

Yesterday even thought I had to work I got to spend some great time with Billy! And I loved every minute of it!
First we went to lunch together. I had received a gift card to Taco Cabana for $10 so our lunch only cost $4.something. I did good. I had the Street Tacos which just themselves are 300 calories.

Then when I got home we made dinner together. Then we went thrift store shopping. Just to look around. He wants to find a dutch oven. We found a purse that I really liked but was way to much money. I did find a bread holder. I have wanted one since forever. So it was nice to find it here and it looks brand new. Even has the inside liner still. And it matches my kitchen!

Then on the way back we stopped by Starbucks. I received a gift card for Christmas for there for $10. So we only spent about $2.something.
So we each got a drink and an apple fritter. (Not diet friendly but it was just once)

I got the Hot Chocolate.

But overall it was a really nice day that we spent together!

What's for Breakfast?

2012-01-25T08:11:00.000-06:00

Today I had an English muffin with a boiled egg and some mustard. I did not like it very much. So I won't be having this again!

Italian Bean Soup

2012-01-24T10:10:00.000-06:00

This is another recipe from the Red Gold cook book.

Ingredients:

1 (28oz) can Red Gold Stewed Tomatoes, chopped
1 (16oz) package frozen vegetable combination of choice
1 (15oz) can vegetable broth
1 (15oz) can pinto beans
1 (15oz) can great northern beans
5 garlic cloves, finely chopped
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
2 tablespoons pesto

Directions:

Combine the undrained Red Gold Stewed Tomatoes, frozen vegetables, broth, undrained pinto beans, undrained Great Northern beans, garlic and Italian seasoning in a stockpot and mix well. Bring to a boil; reduce the heat to low.
Simmer, covered, for 25 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in the pesto. Ladle into soup bowls.

Note: If you do not have Italian seasoning on hand, you can use 1/4 teaspoon each dried oregano, basil and thyme leaves.

Healthy Me Update! 1-24-12

2012-01-24T08:18:00.000-06:00

Today's weigh in is below!!! Whoo hooo another 1.5 lbs gone forever!

What's for Lunch?

2012-01-23T11:33:00.001-06:00

Today I had Green Giant Healthy Heart. This had Pearled Barley, Sugar Snap Peas, and Julienne Carrots in a Herb Infused Extra Virgin Olive Oil Sauce. It was really good!

Sunday Night Chocolate Cake

2012-01-23T08:14:00.001-06:00

Sunday Night Chocolate Cake

Ingredients:

1 1/2 c. unsalted butter (room temp.)
1 1/3 c. sugar
3 large eggs (room temp.)
2 c. plus 2 Tbs cake flour
2 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. salt
3/4 c. milk
1 tsp. Nielsen-Massey Vanilla

Directions:

Cream butter until light, add sugar slowly. Add eggs on at a time, beating after each until whole mixture is fluffly.
Sift dry ingredients together and add to batter in 3 parts, alternating with the milk added in 2 parts. Stir in vanilla and turn into pans.
For 3 9"layers bake at 350° approx. 25 min. For 10 8" layers bake at 400° for approx. 10 min. on the next to the highest rack. Use 1/4 c icing for each layer. I made 5 layers this time.

Chocolate Icing:

1 3/4 c plus 2 T sugar
1/2 c cocoa
1/4 tsp. salt
1/2 c milk
1/2 c unsalted butter
1 oz. unsweetened chocolate (broken into pieces)
1 tsp Nielsen-Massey Vanilla
2 tsp. heavy cream

Bring sugar, cocoa, salt, milk, and the butter to a full boil. Add the chocolate pieces and boil for 3 min. Turn off burner and let cool to 110°. DO NOT stir, shake, or jostle the pan until cooled (use thermometer). Beat in vanilla and cream, just until incorporated. DO NOT overbeat or you will have fudge!

Recipe submitted by Ellen Smith

Submit yours to okcmomto3@gmail.com

What's for Breakfast?

2012-01-23T08:03:00.002-06:00

Should I do a breakfast one as well! The reason I do these is to show you what things taste good also give you an inside to what I eat on my weight loss journey. As in the lunch one, it would be Mon through Fri and I may post it or I may not! But its fun to see.
So for today its a half blueberry bagel with a tablespoon of whipped cream cheese!

The Harlem Globetrotters

2012-01-22T20:27:00.003-06:00

We had a great time at the globetrotters today. I wish Billy could have come but he has been sick and could not make it. Here are some pictures to enjoy!

I am not quite sure what they were doing there.

The game is about to start!

The trophy.

It was like pulling teeth to get Sarah to smile. She hates taking pictures.

Steak Eze is the company I work for.

Globie

Showing their skills!

Playing against Elite.

They won of course!!!

In the end we had a great time. I absolutely LOVED it! And would love to go again! I won these tickets from Metro Family Magazine!

Hearty Vegetable Chili

2012-01-22T18:15:00.000-06:00

I got this recipe from the Red Gold Tomatoes Heartwarming Recipes for the Busy Cook book.

Ingredients:

2 (14.5oz) cans Red Gold Diced Tomatoes Chili Ready with onions
1 (15oz) can garbanzo beans, drained, rinsed
1 (15oz) can black beans, drained, rinsed
1 (10oz) package frozen corn
2 teaspoons chili powder
Shredded Cheese
Sour Ceam
1 tbs Cumin*
1 tbs Pepper*
3 tbs Garlic*

*We added this to the chili. It was not called for in the recipe.

Directions:

Combine the undrained Red Gold Diced Tomatoes chili ready with onion, garbanzo beans, black beans, corn, and chili powder in a large saucepan and mix well. Bring to a boil over medium-high head. Reduce the heat to low.

Simmer, covered, for 10 minutes or until of the desired consistency, stirring occasionally. Ladle into chili bowls.

Garnish with sour cream and shredded cheese and add hot pepper sauce for zip.

You can also eat it with tortilla chips. If you like.

Celebrating Fabian's birthday paint-balling!

2012-01-21T20:19:00.000-06:00

Today we went out to Adventure time Paintball to let the kids play to celebrate our cousin Fabian's 14th birthday. I took a ton of pics and took a few that my cousin took!

The guys getting ready to start.

Heck ya!

Feli eating a cupcake

Guys are ready.

Feli and her brother Fabian

Ciani is a great cook!

Our tables hehe

Alicia got hurt! :(

Sarah has been shot.

Taking a break.

Ready to go again.

WOW Alicia took a hit to the face. Poor girl.

Sarah got shot in the leg.

Poor Bri she looks worn out.

Helping the animals!

2012-01-20T21:34:00.000-06:00

Brianah will be getting her allowance soon and when asked what she was going to do with it she said all of her money is going to help the animals.
She is referring to the commercials where you pay so much a month to help animals. I thought that was so sweet and shows what a caring heart she has!

Low Calorie Baked Apple Crisp

2012-01-19T19:46:00.001-06:00

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients:
4 cups peeled, cored, sliced granny smith apples (3-4 medium apples) (I left my peeling on since it has the nutrients)
1 Tbsp granulated sugar
2 tsp lemon juice
3/4 cup rolled oats
1/4 cup flour
2 Tbsp brown sugar
2 Tbsp melted butter
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp salt

Preparation:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.

2. Place the apples evenly in the bottom of a 11x7 inch baking dish coated with cooking spray.

3. To complete the crisp, in a medium-sized bowl, combine the remaining ingredients and stir until the mixture resembles of course meal. Top the apples evenly with the oat mixture.

4. Bake the crisp at 350°F for 30 minutes.

5. Top each apple crisp serving with 2 tablespoons of frozen vanilla yogurt.

I got this recipe from here. I just did not use any ice cream. I also added a tiny bit of honey to the top. I just drizzled it over.

Cool contest for kids to win $5,000 for their business idea

2012-01-19T15:27:00.000-06:00

CreditReport.com (the Credit Report People) and Warren Buffet have a contest where your kid could make $5,000 just for their great business idea.

The entry must be submitted by Friday, January 20th afternoon. That is tomorrow!!!!
The contest is designed to encourage kids to think like entrepreneurs.
First place is $5,000 and it is open to any kids from age 7 to 16.
It is very easy.

The kids need to sign up by clicking here.

They need to answer the following questions:

How did you come up with your business idea?
Who and what will you need to get started?
Who will your customer be?
How will your idea work?
What goods or services will your business sell?
How much money do you need to set up your business?
How do you plan to raise that money?
How do you plan to prepare, sell, or market your services?
What makes your new business different than other new businesses?
What makes your business likely to succeed?
How can you raise money for community programs by creating your new business?

For more info and the details of the contest, plus some fun cartoons can be found here:
http://www.smckids.com/

In today's world, a lot of kids could use more financial literacy.

Have your kid to take a look, you never know they might win $5,000!

What's for lunch?

2012-01-19T11:54:00.000-06:00

Today my job provided us with pizza for lunch. We all know there is at least 200 calories + in pizza per slice. So instead of having more than one. I had one slice and my veggies! I had the Cali flower with cheese. That way I am not depriving myself of the pizza. I am still having it but in moderation!

Quick Exercises!

2012-01-18T15:50:00.002-06:00

I saw this on a website and cannot remember which one. I would like to give credit. If this was from your site please let me know!

What's for lunch?

2012-01-18T11:19:00.000-06:00

Today I had Green Giant healthy Weight Sliced Carrots, Sugar Snap Peas, Black Beans, and Edamame lightly tossed with butter sauce and baked chicken that was left over from last nights dinner.

The Green giant veggies are delish! They are a little higher in calories. I am guess from from the beans. Its 180 Calories for the box.

Healthy Me Update! 1-18-12

2012-01-18T10:24:00.002-06:00

Well I weighed in again today to a sweet surprise!!! Yes I weigh in every day. I know your not suppose to but hey it doesn't hurt me!

How awesome is this weigh in? Pretty awesome I should say!

Super “Chili” Bowl Brings Unique Flavor to Game Day Meals

2012-01-18T08:57:00.000-06:00

Super “Chili” Bowl Brings Unique Flavor to Game Day Meals
White bean chili scores an extra point with Pure Chocolate Extract

Every sports fan knows that the Super Bowl not only involves great football, commercials and an extravagant half-time performance, but the game day grub often becomes the MVP of Super Bowl Sunday.

Chili, along with finger-licking appetizers, sandwiches and desserts, can become a menu that will keep everyone happy -- even fans of the losing team. Nielsen-Massey Vanillas Pure Chocolate Extract is a secret ingredient that can take a bowl of chili from mediocre to memorable.

Pure Chocolate Extract offers the full depth of dark chocolate, made from the finest cocoa beans. It can be used to add an extra measure of chocolate flavor to dishes that have a chocolate base or can bring a top note to sauces, chili and other spicy foods. It goes exceptionally well with chile peppers, tomatoes and legumes, making it a great pair to the Hearty White Bean Chili recipe below.

"In my house Super Bowl Sunday means family, friends and food. As the chef for the day, I always use our pure flavors and vanillas to create appetizers, main dishes and desserts,” said Craig Nielsen, chief executive officer of Nielsen-Massey Vanillas.

The recipe below puts a twist on the ultimate Super Bowl dish that will have fans requesting seconds at halftime.

Hearty White Bean Chili

2 tablespoons olive oil
3 boneless skinless chicken breasts, medium dice
1 cup finely diced onion
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup organic chicken stock
1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes
1 (29-ounce) can tomato sauce
1 (7-ounce) can diced green chiles
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 tablespoons dried organic parsley
1 tablespoon dried organic oregano
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon kosher salt
2 teaspoons Nielsen-Massey Pure Chocolate Extract
1 (15-ounce) can white kidney beans, drained
1/2 cup (2 ounces) freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Heat the olive oil in a medium sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 4 to 5 minutes or until brown. Remove the chicken from the pan with a slotted spoon and set aside. Add the onion to the sauté pan and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally. Add the garlic and cook for 1 to 2 minutes. Pour in the chicken stock, scraping the bottom of the pan with a wood spoon to deglaze.

Pour the stock mixture into a large saucepot and add the cooked chicken, tomatoes, tomato sauce, chiles, cumin, parsley, oregano, cayenne pepper and salt. Cover and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the chocolate extract and white kidney beans. Cook for 10 minutes.

Ladle the chili into soup bowls and garnish with the Parmesan cheese. Serves 6.

Note: Caramelization cooks the naturally occurring sugars in food and improves their flavor and appearance.

Deglaze means to stir a liquid, usually wine, in a sauté pan to loosen the cooked food particles from the pan.

About Nielsen-Massey Vanillas
Throughout its more than 100 year history, Nielsen-Massey Vanillas has earned its reputation as a manufacturer of the finest extracts in the world. The full line of Nielsen-Massey’s Pure Vanilla products include: Vanilla Beans and Extracts from Madagascar, Tahiti and Mexico; sugar and alcohol-free Madagascar Bourbon Pure Vanilla Powder; Madagascar Bourbon Pure Vanilla Bean Paste; Madagascar Bourbon Pure Vanilla Sugar and Certified Organic Madagascar Bourbon Pure Vanilla Extract and Beans.

Nielsen-Massey Vanillas also has a line of Pure Flavors: Pure Chocolate Extract, Pure Almond Extract, Pure Orange Extract, Pure Lemon Extract, Pure Coffee Extract, Pure Peppermint Extract, Orange Blossom Water and Rose Water. All Nielsen-Massey products are Allergen-Free and certified Kosher and Gluten-Free. The company is headquartered in Waukegan, Illinois, with production facilities in Waukegan and Leeuwarden, The Netherlands.

Tasty treats pack fruits, vegetable, and protein into individual meal packs Review

2012-01-18T08:22:00.001-06:00

I received this recently and could not wait to try it. You all know that I am all about getting healthy. So these have a whole meal inside. It even comes with the spoon. The gel tasted a lot like Noni Juice to me. The drink tasted sweeter like a fruit juice.

Nutri-SNX is a delicious tasting and nutritious combo meal replacement pack that includes one Fruitmania drink and one ProGel serving containing a well balanced mix of protein, fruits and vegetables. Together they offer 3 vegetables, 3 fruit servings , a serving of Fiber, 25 grams of easy to digest Protein and all the vitamins and minerals that comes along with it.

Fruitmania is a new and exciting way to easily get the goodness of a full complement of fruits and vegetables in a ready-to-drink “single shot” beverage. Fruitmania provides 5 full servings of fruits and vegetables in a single serving of less than 3 fluid ounces. Each serving contains 2 full servings of fruit and 3 full servings of vegetables as well as 5 grams of dietary fiber (20% of the recommended daily allowance). Fruitmania is heat and cold stable. all natural, fat free, gluten free, cholesterol free, lactose free, preservative free, and contains less than 100 calories per serving.

Pro-Gel is a protein-fortified gelatin snack. This on-the-go treat provides 25 grams of protein (50% of the recommended daily allowance), 5 grams of fiber (20% of the daily recommend allowance), and one full serving of fruit in each 6-ounce, ready to eat cup. Pro- Gel is heat-stable and cold-stable, so it maintains its gel strength in the fridge and on the go. Pro-Gel is fat free, sugar free, preservative free, cholesterol free, and only 130 calories.

Nutri-SNX combo packs come in two flavors: Orange and Mixed Berry. The products contain no gmos, and contain natural beta carotene, beet coloring and stevia for color and sweetness. They are all natural are in the process of being organic certified, and they bear the heart healthy seal of goodness.

Suggested retail $5.99 Available in retail outlets and chains nationwide Fall 2011.

Individual packages of Fruitmania are also available in six flavors and Pro-Gel in eight flavors.

You can visit NuvoSport on Facebook by clicking this link!

Disclaimer: I received this sample to review.

INOVA X1 Dual Mode Flashlight Review

2012-01-17T17:17:00.001-06:00

I have recently had the opportunity to test out this great flashlight.
My hubby has claimed it as his own! Which is fine. I know that he needs it more than me. Its great and handy for looking outside when its dark, or looking under the sink to find that leak (darn leak), Looking under the hood of your car, finding kids that are playing hid and seek with you, finding your keys that you dropped by the car at night, or anything else you can think of.

Its very bright. My hubby thought it would be fun to shine it in our eyes.. He is such a meanie! But I love him.

Here are the specs of this product:

The INOVA X1® is a serious flashlight that offers exceptional engineering and illumination for its compact 4-inch size. Powered by a single AA alkaline battery, its patented optical system, precision machined aluminum reflector with thermal interface provides superior light projection and visibility. Updated performance and new dual-mode functionality provides long hours of either High or Low power light output. Featuring a uniform focused spot with flood beam pattern that has an effective range of 223 feet, its beam can be also be seen in the dark for up to 1.5 miles. Perfect for keeping close at hand in a glove box, purse, brief case, backpack, and everywhere you go.

Dual Light Mode Functionality. Features both HIGH and LOW Light Output Modes.
LED Color: White
Lumens: High - 55 | Low - 6
Run Time: High 1 hour 45 minutes | Low 40 hours
Battery Type: 1-AA Alkaline battery included
Effective Range (up to): 266 ft (81 m)
High-Powered, energy efficient lifetime LED
Patented optical system, precision machined aluminum reflector with thermal management interface.
Aerospace-grade aluminum with high grade anodized finishes
Colors Available: Black and Titanium anodized finishes
Water-resistant construction and O-Ring seals
3 Position End-Cap Switch activates constant and momentary high and low as well as a lockout mode.
Dimensions (Length x Diameter): 4" (10.16cm) x .720" (1.83cm)
Weight: 2.12 oz. (60 g)
Try me packaging - allows for lighting demonstration
Limited Lifetime Warranty USA

You can purchase your very own INOVA Flashlight by clicking here. I definitely recommend this flashlight as a must have. Its so small it fits in your pocket but the light is so bright you would think its coming from a huge flashlight!

Disclaimer: I receive this flashlight for review purposes. All opinions are my own.

What's for lunch?

2012-01-17T11:13:00.000-06:00

Today I am having a veggie burger on one slice of bread that has been halved and broccoli and cheese. Yummo!

2012-01-17T07:52:00.002-06:00

So today I weighed in and was at my goal for January already! Check it out....

I am very proud of myself!!!

Pictures from Alicia's 16th Birthday Party!

2012-01-16T21:40:00.000-06:00

This is gonna be full of pics. Fair warning!

Eating at the Chinese restaurant.

Tommy and Alicia

A very blury Sarah

Brianah with a glow about her.

The adult table

Norma

Gracie *Where did the other kids go?*

There they are!

My mom and I

My dad and Billy

Bradley

Alicia's birthday cake! (Thanks Aunt Erica)

Norma getting things ready

They found this. Billy drew this a long long time ago.

Billy carrying his purse around! hehe

16 Candles

16 Lit Candles

Playing the XBox dance game.

Thomas jamming

Alicia's face looks like a ghost face. haha

Norma and Rita dancing!

Singing Happy Birthday to Alicia!

What's for lunch?

2012-01-16T16:50:00.000-06:00

Today I had a very healthy option.

I had the healthy vision by Green Giant with a boiled egg.

The veggies were tossed with a light Rosemary butter sauce. This was very yummy!

(Excuse the R on the package. That is so no one eats that at work but me!)

Healthy Me Update! 1-16-12

2012-01-16T16:46:00.000-06:00

So yesterday I weighed in. I wish I could skip a day and not weigh in every day. But its to tempting. I can't do it. If I am going to be addicted to something I guess its better that it be this than eating bad foods.

Now after this weigh in I am one pound away from my January goal! But yesterday we celebrated my daughters 16th birthday. So we went out to eat at a buffet and then to my mother in laws house for a bit. What I didn't know is my mother in law had snacks and punch and everything out. I thought we were just going to let the kids play her new game. So yesterday I did not log. I just threw 3000 calories into My Fitness Pal!

So I am sure I will have to work extra hard to burn yesterday off.

But here is my weigh in!!

Whoo Hoo!!!

Sweets on a Stick Review

2012-01-16T11:57:00.004-06:00

What's better than dessert? Dessert on a stick! Forget hard-to-understand recipe instructions that require lots of time and energy. When it comes to dessert, you want it fast, fun, and easy. With SWEETS ON A STICK: More than 150 Kid-Friendly Recipes for Cakes, Candies, and Pies on the Go! (Adams Media, a division of F+W Media; December 2011) by Linda Vandermeer, you can even take your dessert to go!

SWEETS ON A STICK is the only cookbook that provides recipes for cakes, cookies, brownies, pies, and candies that are convenient, eye-catching, and a treat to make. You will find everything from cake pops and mini pies to cookies and marshmallow kabobs. From fruity to chocolate, crunchy to smooth, there are dozens of tasty bites to tempt your taste buds.

Parents will encourage kids to play with their food when they get together to create these delicious and decadent desserts, including unique holiday creations such as:

· Coconut Christmas Wreaths
· Abominable Snowman Pops
· Gingerbread Cookie pops
· Christmas Tree Cookies

Whether its cake pops or candied fruit, this book offers a variety of treats to satisfy everyone's sweet tooth. Many of the recipes in this book make the perfect activity for a play date or party. Invite kids of all ages to make, bake, and decorate—then sit back and watch as they laugh and play with the unique results. It’s just plain fun for everyone involved, and with full-color photos and step-by-step instructions, this book is guaranteed fun for the whole family.

About the Author
Linda Vandermeer started cooking with her mother as a child and now encourages her three children to help her in the kitchen. Inspired by their creativity, she started her blog BubbleandSweet.blogspot.com, which features all of her delectable creations. Her recipes have been published in Peekaboo Magazine and Adore magazine. A stay-at-home mom, she lives with her husband and three children

Purchase your own copy on Amazon by clicking here!

Disclaimer: I receive a copy of the book for review.

Chili Pasilla

2012-01-13T18:17:00.001-06:00

Chili Pasilla
(*I made a correction to the name per hubby!)
Ingredients:

Package of about 3 Pasilla Chili Pods
1 Package of Steak Eze Philly Meat
2 Tbs Garlic
1/4 cup Diced Onions
Garlic Salt
Pepper
1 Can Refried Beans
1 Package of Flour Tortillas
1 Can of Diced Tomatoes
Cheese (optional)
Cilantro

Directions:

Boil the pasilla chili pods in 2 cups of water until tender. Set aside to cool.
Brown your meat in a skillet with 2 tbs garlic, 1/4 of a cup of chopped onions, garlic salt and pepper. Cook until no longer pink.
Place your pasilla pods along with the water it was boiled in and pour into a food processor. Chop for about 10 seconds then strain into the meat.
Heat for about 1 minute.

Heat up your can of refried beans,
Also, warm up your tortillas.

Top your tortilla with the chili sauce and meat, refried beans, tomatoes, cheese (optional) and cilantro. Roll into a burrito and Enjoy!

New Mexico Chorizo and Bean Stew

2012-01-13T08:51:00.000-06:00

We made this recipe using the Slow Cooker recipes that I posted about before.

You can view that post by clicking here.

New Mexico Chorizo and Bean Stew

From Redbook

Active Time: 20 min

Total Time: 40 min

Makes 8 main dish servings.

Ingredients:

1 tbs olive oil
4 oz dried chorizo sausage., casing removed, diced
2 1/4 cups diced onion
1 tbs chopped garlic
1 (21/2lb) butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cut into 3/4 in chunks (4cups)
1 can 14.5 oz chicken broth
1 can 15oz each pinto beans, black beans, red beans, black eyed peas and white hominy, rinsed and drained
1 lb mixed baby pattypan squash, quartered or zucchini and yellow squash, cut into 1 in chunks
1 large red bell pepper, seeded, cut into 1/2 in diced
1 cup chipotle bbq sauce
pepper
chipped fresh flat-leaf parsley for garnish

Directions:

In a 5 quart dutch oven on medium heat oil, add chorizo, onion, and garlic, and cook stirring, 6 minutes until onion is softened, add butternut squash, cook 2 minutes, add broth; bring to a boil. cover pot and simmer 4 minutes.

Stir in beans, peas, hominy, squash, bell pepper, bbq sauce, and 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper. Bring to a boil; reduce heat. cover pot simmer 8 minutes, or until squash is just tender. Spoon into bowls. Garnish with parsley.

Per Serving:

398 calories,

17 g protein,

64 g carbs,

8g total fat

2g sat fat,

16g fiber,

14mg cholesterol,

1514 md sodium

What's for lunch?

2012-01-12T16:28:00.002-06:00

Today I forgot to take a picture of my lunch. But I had a veggie burger with veggies.

This is a great picture I do want to share with you though. It helps put things in perspective!

Makes you think huh!

Healthy Me Update! 1-12-12

2012-01-12T16:25:00.000-06:00

Well its weigh in Thursday!

Here is what I saw on the scale today...

Sorry its so blurry. Not sure whats up with that. But thats another half pound gone! Whoo Hooo!!! I love seeing the scale going down!

Its Snowing!!!

2012-01-12T16:24:00.000-06:00

So last night I went to a nutrition class that Crest hosted! Learned lots...but when I came out it was snowing so hard.

I took this pic this morning. It did not stick and is long gone now but it was great while it lasted!

New Recipes from HungryGirl and StarKist!

2012-01-12T16:15:00.000-06:00

In celebration of all those New Year’s Resolutions to eat right, lighten up and get fit, StarKist is here with two tuna-packed recipes from the go-to-expert for guilt-free food, Hungry Girl! As the temperatures have been dropping, things have been heating up in her test kitchen, and she created these two delectable dishes—of course featuring the StarKist Flavor Fresh Pouch!

HG's Too-Good Tuna 'n Apple Slaw

PER SERVING (entire recipe): 195 calories, 3.5g fat, 750mg sodium, 21g carbs, 7g fiber, 12g sugars, 22g protein

Ingredients:

2 cups dry broccoli cole slaw

1/3 cup chopped apple (about 1/2 apple)

One 2.6-oz. pouch Starkist Albacore White Tuna in Water

2 tbsp. low-fat sesame ginger dressing

Directions:

In a medium bowl, mix cole slaw, apple, and tuna. Top with dressing and toss to coat. Enjoy!

MAKES 1 SERVING

HG's Tex-Mex Tuna Chopped Salad

PER SERVING (entire recipe): 348 calories, 11g fat, 705mg sodium, 28g carbs, 13g fiber, 6g sugars, 39g protein

Ingredients:

4 cups chopped romaine lettuce

1/2 cup halved grape tomatoes

1 pouch Starkist Hickory Smoked Tuna Creations®

1/2 cup chopped jicama

1/4 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed

1 oz. chopped avocado (about 1/4 avocado)

Optional: fat-free ranch dressing

Directions:

Place lettuce in a large bowl. Top with tomatoes, tuna, jicama, black beans, and avocado. If you like, drizzle with dressing and toss to coat. Enjoy!

MAKES 1 SERVING

Teaching Brownie a new trick! #ILoveMyk9 #CBias

2012-01-11T13:12:00.000-06:00

As you know from the previous post here that we recently went shopping to purchase some dog treats to try to teach Brownie a new trick! Today I will show you the results so far.

Here is Brownie listening to Brianah getting the treats. You can see in that face he knows that treats are coming and is waiting patiently!

I tried holding the treats but he would not let me get a good picture of him if I'm holding them!

Here is Brianah asking him to lay down. But she was holding the treat up in the air so he was not going to do anything but stare at the treat! He knows how to site pretty good but not to lay down.

Alicia gave it a try to see if he would shake. He didn't like that one to much.

Here are two videos: The first is Brianah trying to get Brownie to lay down!

This one is me training Brownie.

So as a conclusion. I do not recommend showing them the treat (at least with Brownie) because then they do not want to pay attention to anything but the treat in your hand. I would hid it and ask them to do what you want. Then give the treat to them. Also, in the beginning it takes a little more help showing them what you want them to do. But then as you keep going they will understand what you are getting at with out any hand gestures etc.

I think overall Brownie has done very well with his training. He sure loves the treats we supplied him with!

I like using Milk-Bone® Treats, Pup-Peroni Treats and Milo’s Kitchen Treats for teaching Brownie!

Disclosure: “This shop has been compensated as part of a social shopper insights study for Collective Bias. #CBias #ILoveMyk9 All opinions are my own.

What's for lunch? Barber Foods and Potatoes

2012-01-11T12:38:00.000-06:00

Today I had a stuffed chicken breast with sour cream potatoes. It was 390 calories for this lunch but I did not eat breakfast today since I had a Dr appt And I had to be fasting for that. So really divide that up and its about 200 calories for breakfast and 200 for lunch!

What did you have?

Healthy Me Update! 1-10-12

2012-01-10T16:04:00.000-06:00

So today for weigh in I was down half a pound! So far so good!!!

What's for lunch? Tuna

2012-01-10T13:09:00.000-06:00

So today for lunch I had Tuna from a pouch, lettuce, pickle slices, 1 hard boiled egg, and about 1/2 a cup of great northern beans.

I was bad and scratched the lettuce though. It just did not taste good today.

What are you having?

What's for lunch? Birds Eye Steamfresh Review

2012-01-10T10:39:00.000-06:00

Yesterday for lunch I had the Birds Eye Steamfresh Chef's Favorites. It was Broccoli, Cauliflower, carrots in cheese sauce.

I have to say it was pretty tasty. So easy to make. Just plop the bag in the microwave and heat up. Then pour onto a plate. The only thing I wish was different was the cheese sauce. I wish it was packaged by itself so that I can use less if I wanted and also because a lot of it is still on the inside of the bag when I empty the veggies out.
But I will be having this again. It is 175 calories for the whole bag.

I think this would be great to have half of this bag and then a 4 oz grilled chicken breast! Very tasty!

Another product I like...

2012-01-10T10:30:00.000-06:00

I found this Tongs at Walmart I believe. They were cheap like $2 maybe. They are not a name brand. But they come in handy.

I use them to flip tortillas among other things.

Full House

2012-01-10T10:26:00.000-06:00

The other day when I came home from work I walked into my room to find this...

A room full of kids all playing the Wii! They were having a fun time though. I was not going to break it up!

Brianah had to visit the dentist yesterday.

2012-01-10T10:24:00.000-06:00

Brianah had an adult tooth coming in that was coming in crooked because her baby tooth has not come out yet. So it did not have enough room to come in straight. So she went to the dentist and they pulled her baby tooth. When I got home from work I thought her face looked so funny. Her right side was still numb and so it stayed the same when she smiled or talked!

See....

Post Sporting Event Hunger #TysonGoodness and #CBias

2012-01-10T08:31:00.000-06:00

Do you ever find your self in need of a snack after a Sporting Event? Well we sure do! All that yelling and cheering can build up an appetite. Its a good thing that with Tyson's help its Mom to the rescue with the Mini Chicken Sandwiches available at Walmart.

So since I knew before hand that I will have a hungry family after the game... I ran out to my local Walmart and picked up both kinds of Mini Sandwiches.

First we have the Regular Mini Chicken Sandwiches.

Then we have the Mini Chicken Sandwiches with Cheese.

Tyson^® Mini Chicken Sandwiches are a fully-cooked meal solution for your on-the-go family. Fresh bakery rolls make them convenient, too. They go directly from freezer to microwave and are ready in minutes.

Not only should you try out both kinds but just for purchasing any two boxes by Jan 13th, you can get a $5 Walmart Gift card.

To get this offer click this link for more information!

We were watching the LSU and Alabama football game. Here are the girls watching.

It kept their attention about umm 2.5 seconds. Then they were off to go play games in their rooms.

Kids huh!

Be sure to check out my Google+ shopping experience at Walmart by clicking here.

There are three steps to making your sandwiches. So easy!

Brianah wanted to make sure her sandwich was perfectly aligned.

Are you ready to get some of these for yourselves? Tyson Mini Chicken Sandwiches are not available in all Walmart's. Use this handy locator to find out where they are near you. Click here.

http://www.collectivebias.com

Pecan Pie Mini Muffins

2012-01-09T10:27:00.000-06:00

Pecan Pie Mini Muffins

Ingredients:

1 cup chopped pecans

1/2 cup flour

1 cup packed brown sugar

2/3 cup butter, melted

2 eggs

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Combine all ingredients and mix well. Spray a miniature muffin tin with non-stick cooking spray and fill each to just under the top edge. Bake for 18 minutes. I used a square cookie bar pan for these.

Submitted by Ellen Smith

Submit your own recipe at okcmomto3@gmail.com

The Road To Augmented Reality

2012-01-09T09:20:00.000-06:00

My dad sent me this in an email and I thought I would share with everyone. I see things as getting to controlling and it scares me.

2012. The Road To Augmented Reality
Prophecy - Signs
Monday, January 02, 2012
Ed DeShields

If you’ve got your eye on a new cell phone purchase in 2012, chances are, it will be equipped with a technology called Near Field Communication (NFC). NFC is technology’s next giant leap forward.

It’s not too risky to say that your cell phone is going to replace your computer and your Internet service. You’ll know it the moment you activate an NFC-enabled device. From it will emerge a new generation officially known as the Internet of Things (IoT).

To describe IoT is to understand that every object around us will take on its own digital description and geospatial location – added or edited by anyone. Know a good burger joint? Just write it up, give it a geo-location by pointing your camera at it, snap and upload. That image just became a Thing on the IoT.

All objects will eventually make it on the IoT. Your shoes, the sweater you bought at Target and the money in your pocket will soon have embedded in them digital transmitters called radio frequency identification devices, or RFIDs. Want to drop a few Euros on dinner in Rome? The RFID receiver will verify the bill is not counterfeit, when it was printed and who owned in throughout its lifecycle. Money laundering won’t be possible. Every bill’s chain of custody can be tracked and the moment some undesirable character tries to pass money, it is electronically rendered worthless.

RFIDs are tiny. They’re about the half the size of a grain of rice. They need no power supply to be stimulated to transmit their signals to receivers equipped to catch, and respond to, their NFC signal. The most common receivers and transmitters will be – you guessed it -- roving cell phones canvassing every square inch of the planet carried by their human owners.

Objects will make themselves recognizable and communicate information about themselves. Cell phones with NFC will access information, collect and analyze it and share it with other objects. A toaster won’t be simply a device to toast bread, but Ed’s toaster, a device with which he has toasted 221 pieces of bread since deployed; 56% having been wheat bread. Ed’s toaster is located with an Internet location geocoded to Ed’s kitchen counter located in a single-family residence Ed has owned since 1997 – and so forth. The toaster’s manufacturer, General Electric, can see Ed’s toaster via the Internet of Things and monitor its use from its corporate headquarters in New York. When Ed’s neighbor drives by, Ed’s toaster presents an Icon on his neighbor’s cell camera image. If the neighbor is curious he could request Ed’s toaster history (provided Ed allows it).

Last month my electric utility provider installed a Smart Meter at my home. My power usage, conservation efforts and when I’m using it, is known real time by the utility. If they want to meter me back, in the event of a power crunch, they can selectively brown me out from the power plant. NFC allows my cell phone to monitor information about how much power my pool pump is consuming. My cell phone can turn on my lights, my television and adjust my thermostat before I arrive home after a long day at the office. Each device becomes a member of the Internet of Things.

Now you have the first half of the big picture.

Your next cell phone will be equipped to communicate with the people you know and to the objects that surround you.

As we enter 2012, there are about 1.5 billion PCs and 1 billion mobile phones that can be connected to the Internet. In 5 years there will be 100 billion devices, and objects, connected to the Internet and Internet of Things. Most will be sensors.

Your interface to read these sensors will be your cell phone via an almost unimaginable technology called Augmented Reality, or AR for short. WikiTude, Facebook and Google will be transformed allowing you to use your cell camera to enter a world of objects, augmented by informational icons. To enter this world you simply look through your camera lens and all the images have search links about that object superimposed on your live camera image. (visit http://www.wikitude.com/myworld or search for the words Augmented Reality applications to learn more).

Imagine walking down the street while walking your dog. Along the way, you open your cell phone to camera mode. As you move along, your camera view receives NFC transmission icons, or bubbles, and places them over your neighbor’s image overlaying his Facebook status, education history and his Friends list and Newsfeed. Similarly, Starbuck’s senses your NFC broadcast and sends you a text advertising its double latte special because it knows you’ve spent $42.60 on similar products in the last twelve months. You lift your camera, point it towards Starbucks and it calculates you have a 7-minute wait with 4 customers waiting for their lattes. Any number of other people, locations or other objects you pass transfer a sea of NFC signals about that object.

If this sounds like science fiction, think again. It’s already available or being tested in China, South Africa, Germany, France, Britain and two dozen other countries. ATT, Verizon, MasterCard, Visa and Spain-based Telefónica are shipping units as fast as they can become available. Facebook, Google, WikiTude and dozens of start-up software companies are providing the cell phone apps.

We have improved our possibilities for relating to each other beyond the limits of direct physical relations. We can go beyond the anthropological limit of 150 people with whom we can keep in direct contact. The Internet of Things will make it possible for objects to get information about their position in the world, to interact with other objects and to have access to comparative information for data gathered in their vicinity.

With this unbridled power of IoT and Augmented Reality there is a real threat that this new capability could destabilize governments, or worse, governments could usurp the freedoms of people if they tried to own control over it.

Welcome to 2012. It’s going to be an interesting year ahead.

ChefsChoice SmartKettle Review

2012-01-08T13:10:00.002-06:00

I wanted to share with you guys a product that I have come to LOVE! The ChefsChoice SmartKettle. This handy little thing is awesome. When the kids come up and ask can I have some hot cocoa. I know that I do not have to sit and watch a pan full of water come to a boil. I just fill up my Kettle and press on. I have it pre set for the temperature I want the water to get to. Its just warm enough for hot cocoa but not to hot to burn little mouths. I just hit the on button and in as little as a few minutes my water is ready! I LOVE this Kettle. You can purchase this item by clicking here.

Below is some information from the website:

Serve tea, coffee or hot chocolate instantly. The advanced digital controls on this cordless stainless-steel kettle allow you to preset the temperature to your liking, keep it there for up to 40 minutes and store the last temperature selected. Sensors alert you when water is low. Auto shut-off. Easy-to-read LED display.

Product Features
•: Model: 688
• Sleek, cordless stainless-steel kettle with corded power base unit
• Patented digital temperature controls with + 2 degrees accuracy
• Keep-warm capability up to 40 minutes
• Last-temperature memory setting
• Low-water level warning
• Auto shut-off
• Easy-read LED F/C temperature display
• Instruction booklet
• 1-year limited warranty

Disclosure: I did not receive any compensation for this review. I have just used it and enjoy it and wanted to share that with you in case you are looking for an item like this one!

Spiced Pecans

2012-01-08T10:27:00.001-06:00

Spiced Pecans

Ingredients:

1 Egg White
1 Tablespoon water
4-5 cups pecan halves
½ cup sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
½ teaspoon nutmeg
½ teaspoon cloves
½ teaspoon salt

Directions:

Beat Egg White and water until foamy. Pour over pecans, stirring to coat. Add other ingredients together. Sprinkle over pecans, stirring until all are coated with mixture. Place on a Pam coated cookie sheet. Bake at 325 for 15 minutes, stirring once. Cool on Wax paper.

Recipe Submitted by Ellen Smith
Photo by Chan Smith

Submit your recipe at okcmomto3@gmail.com
Photo by Chan Smith

White Chocolate Cherry Nut Fudge

2012-01-08T08:30:00.003-06:00

White Chocolate Cherry Nut Fudge

Ingredients:

1 Cup dried Cherries
1 2/3 Cup Granulated Sugar
2/3 Cup Evaporated Skim Milk
1 1/2 Cup Miniature Marshmallows
2 (3oz) Bars Good Quality White Chocolate, Coarsely Chopped
1/2 Cup Walnuts, Coarsely Chopped

Directions:

Grease an 8" square baking pan. In a heavy 2 quart saucepan over medium heat, stir sugar and evaporated milk until sugar is dissolved and mixture boils, cook 5 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat, stir in marshmallows and white chocolate until melted and mixture is smooth. Stir in chopped walnuts and cherries just until mixed well. Immediately pour fudge into prepared pan. Let stand about 10 minutes until top is firm to the touch. Refrigerate about 1 hour until firm. Cut fudge into squares. Enjoy!

Recipe submitted by Ellen Smith

Photo by Chan Smith

Submit yours to okcmomto3@gmail.com

Homemade Lollipops

2012-01-07T09:29:00.002-06:00

Homemade Lollipops

Ingredients:

2 Cups of Sugar
1/2 Cup White Karo Syrup
1/2 Cup Cold Water
1 Tsp Cinnamon Oil*
Red Food Coloring (How ever much you prefer)**

*Or any flavor. The oil comes in little vile and they come two packs. The name that I used is LorAnn Candy and baking flavoring.

*1 vile - 1tsp

** You can use any color depending on the flavor or oil you used.

Directions:

In a heavy saucepan mix the water, syrup and sugar on medium heat. Stir till combine. Boil to 295 to 300 degrees on a candy thermometer. When it reaches 295 remove from heat and it will continue getting warm to 300. When you add the flavor make sure your house is well ventilated and stand back. Its very strong and will take your breath away. Add food coloring and mix well. As stirring remember to stay back.

In a hard candy mold... Spray with cooking spray and transfer the candy to a glass measuring cup. Put your sticks in the mold and pour syrup into the mold. Let it set until hard. You can also put them in the mold and not use a stick. Or butter a 9X13 inch pan and pour the syrup in there and when set break into pieces. But be careful because it can be sharp and you will have shards of glass!

Recipe submitted by Ellen Smith

Photo by Chan Smith

Submit yours to okcmomto3@gmail.com

Rice Krispie Treats

2012-01-06T09:26:00.002-06:00

Perfect Rice Krispie Treats

Ingredients:

1 Stick of Butter
2 10 1/2 Ounce Bags of Mini Marshmallows
10 Cups of Rice Krispies

Directions:

Melt butter over low to medium heat. Once melted add marshmallows and stir until melted over same heat. Then add the rice krispies. Keep it over the heat while stirring together. Once its mixed pour into two 8X8 pans coated with butter or sprayed with pam. After being in the fridge for 30 minutes take them and turn upside down for 30 minutes or until ready to serve.

Makes 2 8X8 Pans.

Recipe submitted by Ellen Smith

Photo by Chan Smith

Submit yours to okcmomto3@gmail.com

Playing around with my girls!

2012-01-06T09:05:00.000-06:00

Last night the girls and I were playing a game together. I wanted to get a picture of them and they were acting funny!

Here is my first attempt.

Then I tried again...

Then they said no take one more mom...
They all waited for me to count to 3. They all looked really sweet and nice. for 1....2...3 Then they all changed how they looked on 3!! haha

I gotta love my sweet girls!

I am Metro Family's Fan of the Week!

2012-01-06T08:58:00.001-06:00

Whoo hoo!!! How exciting!
Check it out...

You can be a fan too. Just visit their facebook here and participate! Its so easy! Get to it.

Buffalo Chicken Salad

2012-01-06T08:55:00.000-06:00

Buffalo Chicken Salad

Ingredients:

Tyson Buffalo Chicken Tenders
Lettuce
Cherry Tomatoes
Shredded Cheddar Cheese
Strips of onions
Cucumbers
Sugar Snap Peas
Your favorite dressing.

Directions:

Heat the chicken int he microwave. Chop up the chicken into bite sized pieces. Put your lettuce on a plate and top with the chicken. Then add your favorite toppings. (Suggestions above) Then top with your favorite dressing.

You can also make a healthier dressing by taking Olive Oil, Garlic Salt, and Pepper. Shake it up in a container very well and drizzle on top of the salad.

Recipe submitted by Sarah Garcia

Submit your own at okcmomto3@gmail.com