clark strikes again

Clark: Russ, we checked every bulb, didn't we?
Rusty Griswold: Sure, Dad.
Clark: Hmm... Maybe we ought to just go up there and check...
Rusty Griswold: Oh, woo. Look at the time. I gotta get to bed. I still gotta brush my teeth, feed the hog, still got some homework to do, still got those bills to pay, wash the car...

Gosh how I love that movie.  What would Christmas be at Green Acres if I didn’t compare Mr. Miller and his little “Rusty’s” to Clark Griswold and Christmas Vacation.

The lights are up with some gentle prodding by myself and our neighbor Mr. Dutcher.  So without further ado, drum roll please….

 

And last but not least, my 2 little “Rusty’s” beaming with pride in a job well done!  Merry Christmas my friends!

school house days

 

I love this school house.  We pass it on US 50 every time we go to the farm to see Gigi.  This time Mr. Miller and I actually stopped to get a picture.  

It just intrigues me, I can almost feel the history flowing from this building.  The stories and faces of all those children that attended school in that building.  I have a question for my Kansas readers, this is on US 50 just past the Morning Star Ranch, does anyone know any history about this school house?  I would love to find out more information.

I love buildings from our past.  I think of what life on the prairie must have been like.  Walking for miles just to get to school.  The weather they endured.  Our children don’t have it so rough. 

As we drove past down the road I noticed for the first time there were 2 outhouses behind the school.  I joked with Mr. Miller that they even had his and her “Eleanor's”.  You ask why I refer to it as an “Eleanor”, well the story goes that Eleanor was the nickname of the basic sanitation that began in the early to mid-1930s.  When the nation was deep into the Great Depression many work projects were organized to help the unemployed also referred to as the WPS.

The people were scared of a Typhoid Fever epidemic so Eleanor Roosevelt wanted to improve the sanitation of the farmers and rural communities. These outhouses still bear her name.  We actually have and Eleanor on the farm in Newton.  I used to teased Mr. Miller that I have never seen a cement outhouse and Gigi informed me that it was not just an outhouse but an “Eleanor”.

These “Eleanor's” were constructed with a 4-foot-square cement slab and a metal roof with walls made from any kind of lumber they could find or re use.  (Wow, think about it they recycled then too, Cameron likes that part of the story).  They rose to 7 feet in the front, with a 1-foot slant downward toward the back.  They made sure they were well ventilated with a total of four vents.  Two under the roof could be closed and the other two were just 3 feet from the floor, one in the front and one in the back.  They all had metal screens.

Our “Eleanor” is still standing and it adds a great bit of history to the farm.

 

putting the beds to rest

A couple of weeks ago my Miller Men put our flower and garden beds to rest for the Winter in preparation for “Clark” to make his annual visit to the front of Green Acres.  This year Henry was able to help and Cameron took great pride in giving direction, OK dictating to his little brother on how this job was going to be completed.

The eager participant who didn’t like his mittens by the way.

The “bossy” big brother.

 

We finally rid ourselves of one mitten.

Cameron really thought moving hay was fun.  Who was I to step in the way of his fun.

The beds are sleeping and all is calm.  Clark did come and the front is beautiful.  Pictures to come.

vintage linens

 

I have a fondness for all things vintage but really, really love linens.  I found these great sheets months ago while on Urban Treasure Hunt.  Don’t you think it will go great in a quilt?  By the way I love antiques too, the table above was made by Mr. Miller’s grandfather.  We have an inlaid game table downstairs to match.

I am trying to hold true to a handmade Christmas.  So far so good, I will admit that I did purchase toys for the boys.  Cameron loves his legos and Henry loves Thomas. 

My sewing machine has been working on full speed and it has been very therapeutic.  Life is so busy but I am trying to slow down and enjoy the season.

Hope you all are staying warm and enjoying the blessings of the holiday season.

i said yes...

As I was prowling Facebook yesterday I came upon a post by one of my childhood friends. Jeni and I lived 3 doors from each other during 6Th - 8Th grade. We were close and always getting into mischief. I know you find that hard to believe. Jeni lives in New York now with her husband and 4 beautiful little girls. Jeni posted that today would be the 18Th anniversary of David proposing to her and as I was reading her post and yes crying, I realized that 12 years ago today Mr. Miller officially "popped the question" and I said yes, eventually.

Mr. Miller and I had known each other since I was 18, but didn't date for 9 years. When we did start dating I knew that he was it. Crazy that in all the years we knew each other I would not have ever guessed that he was the one. I have to say that when he kissed me that first time it was it! I had a "Sabrina" moment, corny but true. Our relationship was a long distance one with him in Kansas City and me in Topeka but we made it work. The year we got engaged it had been and unusually warm season and he was a landscaper which meant lots of hours. We snuck away over Thanksgiving to see the Deacon and Pops in Illinois. We took the train and were going to drive back as they were gifting Patrick with a car since the "bucket" had died.

While on the train Mr. Miller told me to get my calendar out. I thought it was strange but I went with it. So he said lets just do it, pick a date. Not so romantic I know but it does get better, eventually. We discussed lots of options and settled at the time with October 16Th, 1999. (Little did we know at the time the church would double book that date and we would end up with October 9, 1999.) I think I was so excited that we actually had the time to talk about getting married that I didn't realize I wasn't given a ring. Come to find out he had already been shopping with my Mom and because it had been such a crazy season for me he wasn't able to go pick it up and actually present it to me on the train.

I knew the ring would come and we started planning and figuring things out. Along comes Saturday, December 10Th, 1998 and we were in Topeka meeting with Fr. Terril about the ceremony. We met my family at the mall to do a little Christmas shopping so I was told. Mr. Miller and Mimi had a different agenda, while Erika and the kids took me to the Dillards shoe department, they went to the jewelry store.

We met up in the food court for dinner. Things were fine and we were laughing while enjoying our Chik-fil-a and then it got quiet. He grabbed my had and said, finally and officially, "will you marry me?" and I just looked at him and the first thing I could muster was "as far as you know!" (that was Mr. Miller's answer for everything) He just looked at me like a lost puppy and Mimi said ask her again. He did and I said "YES!". He slipped a cigar band on my finger first followed by what I call my Princess Diana ring. He gave me a sapphire surrounded by channel set diamonds and I LOVE IT! You ask why a cigar band? I had always told him I didn't need a ring that would put you in debt, if we couldn't pay cash for it we were not getting it. I didn't care if it was a cigar band or twist tie, all that mattered was that we were together forever. I still have that cigar band and will keep it forever and plus what a great story if Chik fil a ever has a contest. Haha...

I love you Mr. Miller!

thoughts by dr. seuss and myself

Have you ever really thought about what the Dr. was trying to tell us in his books? I guess lately, since I read a lot not only to my kids but the sippy cup gang as well, I have pondered over these little helpful hints.

I received an email this morning and this was her tag line,

Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothings going to get better. It's not!

-The Lorax by Dr. Seuss

Now just sit here a minute and think about it. Doesn't it really hit home for you? I mean with the state of the economy and the world, I feel as if we don't all just stop for a minute nothing is going to change. We can all talk about how we feel regarding our state of affairs right now but what are you going to do to make a change. Big or small, just think about it.

Right now we are entering the Holiday Season. For my family that means Advent. Advent comes from the Latin word adventus which means "coming".

We took Gigi to mass on Saturday evening at St. Thomas More (Cameron's school parish), yes we are Episcopalian but Gigi is Roman Catholic and is coming on 90 years, it was a beautiful service and it too made me think about what I can do to help prepare for myself but for others. Kansas City has a Catholic Service Center known as Seton. They help those in need and a Sister from the Center spoke and shared stories with us about Seton and those in need. You never know who you come across that might need help.

One change my family is making this year is to up our donations to the local food pantry, could you imagine not knowing when your next meal is coming? We are going to daily put food in a bag to take to church on Sunday. As a family we are going to pray for those families that this food will nourish.

I feel this is one small change that we can make in our daily lives to help with the "coming" meals for others in our community.

bad blogger, bad blogger...

I know it has been a week since I have shared some words with you and I am sorry. I have been preparing for the Deacon and Pops to get here on Wednesday. The other obsession has been our first meeting with the school district for Cameron's IEP.

I am still so confused on everything that goes into this, especially since he goes to a Parochial school and so we have the right to services from the public school. Lets just say a lot of phone calls, emails and door knocking has been going on. I am google obesessed these days with trying to understand all the terms. We love our son so much and want the absolute best for him. We are his voice and we hope to lay the path for other families in our situation.

We have learned from fellow parents that we have to speak up and out. Don't be afraid to take that first step and get the help that your child needs in school. In our case Aspergers Syndrome is nothing to be ashamed of, or for others any learning disability is nothing to be ashamed of. Our children will succeed, it might take a little longer and we might go down a different path but yes they will succeed.

Remember that God gives us amazing gifts in the form of children they just might come in different wrappers. None the less they are all amazing and true gifts.

holy cow...thanksgiving is next week

So I have been busy with school activities, birthdays, cleaning closets, etc. and it occurred to me that Thanksgiving is next week! Wowzers, is that possible? I figured I needed to get on the ball since I am hosting for the Miller sanction.

The Deacon and Pops are flying in next Wednesday morning, I would appreciate all positive thoughts and prayers for their safe travels from Valdosta. Once they get to Green Acres they are going to pick up Cameron and then they are off to Newton to pick up Gigi. (This is her 89Th Thanksgiving as she turns 90 on December 14Th) We couldn't have Thanksgiving without her. I just hope we have decent weather so we can get down there and back with her.

I have always loved Thanksgiving, of course the food but most of all the time spent with those you love. This is going to be so much fun, I am calling it my "Walton's Thanksgiving", and I am showing my age here. Those of you that are young google The Walton's it was an amazing, good moraled TV show of my youth. We are going to go to Church on Wednesday night after we have pizza, yes Pizza! I spoke with Papa Murphy's and told them of our situation with Cameron and dairy, they said just bring my cheese in and they will put fresh gloves and clean the area and top the pizza with our cheese. He said they have a lot of customers they do this for. The sweet bag guy at Whole Foods this weekend told me to try Daiya Shreds for pizza as they melt the best. Any of you tried these?

As for Thursday I have been working on our Menu. I have loved the Williams Sonoma Thanksgiving books forever and I have planned our feast. I have even researched alternative dairy free ingredients and ideas.

Buttermilk Brined Turkey with Bourbon Gravy

Cornbread Apricot Dressing with Rosemary

Apple-Orange Cranberry Sauce

Whipped Sweet Potatoes ~ for Pops and Mr. Miller

"Smashed White" potatoes for my little Cam Man

Snap Beans with fresh garlic and Bacon

Pumpkin Crumble

Pecan Tart

Stone Hill Chambourcin

I read that if I use plain coconut milk it will act like buttermilk in the brining process. We did a trial run this weekend on the "smashed white" potatoes with plain soy yogurt and chicken broth and all I can say was "YUM"! I even read up on a dairy free pumpkin custard that I can use in my crumble. Maybe this dairy free won't be so bad. Not to mention I read a testimony by a Mom and Dad who said they both lost about 60 lbs. Hello....

Friday morning the Deacon and I are off to shop and Clark Sr, Clark Jr. and the crew will be doing some exterior illuminations here at Green Acres. We will decorate later that day and just spend time together.

Thanksgiving is about togetherness, love, laughter and good food. I am thankful this year for our bountiful blessings. God never lets us down and he continues to amaze me everyday. Thank you all for being part of our blessings.

{this moment}

~ a brief moment from our lives...

hello 40

Well I entered a new decade today.   I am 40 and I have to say I wasn’t real excited about this mile marker.  The more I have thought about it and the more I have talked to my fellow members in this elite club maybe it won’t be so bad.

Mr. Miller, with the help of The Deacon, Pops, Mimi, Poppa, Aunt Erika and Uncle Randy, took me out of town this past weekend.  We went to one of our favorite places, Hermann.  It is a wonderful little town of 2500 nestled in the valley of the Missouri River.  It has German Roots and lots of good GREAT wine and food.  Here are a few moments from our weekend.

We had an amazing time.  Thanks to all our family that helped make this much needed mini vacation possible.  I love you all so much!

When I awoke this morning Cameron and Mr. Miller had set the coffee pot and I found this card made by my little man.

I have sung “You are my Sunshine” to both of my boys since birth.  It is our special song.

With this card and all of the calls, texts, hugs from the sippy cup gang and FB messages 40 is not looking so bad.  As Jimmy would say “here’s to another trip around the sun!”.

what's cookin'

Would you look at the size of those carrots! I received those in my veggie box last week. I couldn't believe the size of them. They are going into carrot muffins and the sippy cup gang will be getting them cooked and candied later this week. I just had to share these with you, and yes they are organic. Who would have thought in this day and age we could grow veggies this size without any help but all natural gifts given to us by mother nature :).

Monday ~ Tuna and Rice Casserole, peas and corn

Tuesday ~ Pork chops, Mashed Sweet Potatoes, Green Beans

Wednesday ~ Taco Soup

Thursday ~ Leftovers

Friday ~ Meatballs, Mashed Yukon Golds, Peas

Saturday ~ Mac n Cheese, Hot Dogs and Apple Sauce (Mama and Mr. Miller are going to the STM Auction that night)

Sunday ~ Soup and Sandwich

what a ride…

The last 2 weeks have been quite a ride on an emotional roller coaster.  We have been blessed with 2 amazing sons.  Cameron is 7 and Henry is 21 months. 

We always knew that Cameron was special, heck aren’t all children, but Cameron had his little quirks.  He made these little sounds like chattering as long as we can remember, structure and routine were always inevitable, sleeping through the night became a thing of the past at 15 months, loud noises were horrifying and list goes on.  When Cameron was 4 his pre school teacher had suggested that maybe Cameron had issues with ADHD and/or the Autism Spectrum.  I put it in that file we all have labeled “not my kid” and went on about our lives.  It would still come the mind here and there over the next 2 weeks when I had a friend who worked for me sit down and ask me some questions about my little guy.  I was forced to open that file because she was right.  Cameron did have some of the characteristics and you know we might get some answers.

We made an appointment and thus our first ticket was purchased you could say on the Autism Spectrum Disorder Ride of life.

Cameron tested right on the edge for Aspergers, ADHD was a definite and OCD was a great possibility.  We started on a all natural approach with fish oil and behavior modification and we rode that part of the ride for about 6 months.  We did see some changes but not enough to give Cameron the quality of life he deserved.

Back to the Doctor for the follow up appointment we went.  Dr. Hoffman had still decided not to formally diagnose at this time because of Cameron’s age. Unfortunately Mr. Miller could not be there with us and I had to swallow the pill of agreeing to medications for our son.  This was much harder than I thought it would be too accept.  I felt that I had failed as a mother, what could I have done differently?   Answer: NOTHING!  I needed to do this for Cameron and he needed it.  We saw great changes. 

Over the next year Cameron started kindergarten and did great.  He was writing his name and writing sentences.  Doing just great and adapting to life in school.

This year we started 1st grade and have hit a few speed bumps.  Reading is not going well at all and he is behind the other students academically. 

After a disappointing first conference Mama got upset.  Mr. Miller referred to it as they “poked the witch”.  I kept my cool but after being up all night 2 weeks ago Thursday and burning up the Google  button a few calls and emails were made that Friday morning.  We had some positive results and new that Monday was going to be a long day with meetings and Doctors appointments.  We met with the Resource Teacher and Principal, spoke with the Public School District about an IEP and then went to the Doctor.  We discovered that the missing link was a formal diagnosis.  I didn’t think that would be so difficult, after all we all knew it was there but maybe just maybe if it wasn’t written down it wasn’t true. 

Well its true and it is a fact of life, ticket 2 purchased for the ride.   Cameron has officially been diagnosed with Aspergers, OCD and ADHD.  Reality is that just because it is in his file now it won’t keep him from really succeeding in life.  I still found myself on this roller coaster of emotions.  Truth is I still find myself reliving the last 7 years and my pregnancy with him.  What could I have done differently, then I snap out of it and say get a grip and move forward.  I just wish I could on a regular basis.

We have changed a few medications and are getting ready to become dairy/casein free for the next 2 months.  I know we tried the dairy free route before but I found it intimidating and we failed miserably.   We are researching and have found that we should gradually wade into these waters and it will be an easier process.

I am asking for suggestions to help us on this dietary change.  I have a little guy that loves his yogurt, cheese and ice cream.  He does enjoy coconut ice cream so I think I might have that one worked out.

Like I said in the beginning it has been a wild ride we are on.  I wouldn’t change it though.  I have an amazing, smart, bright, silly, genuine and loving little boy who loves life and all it has in store for him.  Who could ask for anything more?

my “aha” moment with a butternut squash

So am I the only cook who does battle when going to cook a butternut squash?  Please tell me differently.

Recently my Fresh Connect orders have produced a lot of butternut squash.  Yes, I know it is Fall and that is the time for all squash and gourd like creations, but what to do with them?  I make soups and love them roasted but when roasting them I feel like I am going to battle just to get them cut length wise.  I recently read an article that changed my relationship forever with my beloved butternut squash.  This is a fool proof method of oven baking that will keep your fingers in one piece.

First wash your veggie, you never know what was lurking around the garden.

Preheat oven to 350.  Find a baking dish that your veggie will stand in.  Pierce slits with a sharp knife in top to let steam out and most importantly so you don’t have a “squash apocalypse” in your oven. 

Bake for 45 – 90 minutes based on size.  Test by piercing with knife, if it inserts smoothly you are done.  Remove and let cool to touch.  Lay on side and slice, remove seeds and skin. Mash with whatever you want and serve.  Yummy!

what's cookin'

I couldn't help myself with this picture. Henry was maybe 7 months old. Quite the appetite wouldn't you say?

monday ~ sausage and potato casserole

tuesday ~ chicken and spinach chowder

wednesday ~ "trunk or treat" at school

grilled cheese and tomato soup

thursday ~ leftovers

friday ~ beef and rice hotdish

saturday ~ cheeseburgers and tots

sunday ~ waiting for Mimi to tell us what she wants for her birthday dinner

white chicken chili

I love the fact that Cameron’s school is really a community.  St. Thomas More has done an amazing job at making everyone feel right at home.  Cameron is doing so well this year.  He has actually been playing flag football and loves it.  We practice on Wednesday nights and it is a chance for us parents to once again sit together and share thoughts, recipes and stories.  The recipes are great!  My friend Kelly, her son is in the 2nd grade and plays on Cam’s team, shared this recipe for White Chicken Chili with me a few weeks ago.  She said her husband requests this once a week and I can see why.  It is amazing, don’t forget the avocado on top!  Recipe note I did leave the green chilies out of the soup and just served them on the side. Go to Our Best Bites and check out other great recipes too!

We had some leftover Pumpkin Cornbread from our chili last week that I had saved in the fridge and it went perfectly with it.

I shared this recipe last November and it is a favorite here. 

what's cookin'

monday ~ lasagna (carry over), salad, garlic bread

tuesday ~ white chicken chili, avocados, tortilla strips

wednesday ~ football practice so it is leftovers!

thursday ~ butternut squash soup, cheese and crackers, honey crisp apples

friday ~ tacos

saturday ~ meatloaf, peas, mashed red potatoes

sunday ~ sandwiches, fruit salad, veggie chips

Happy Eating! I would love to hear some of your meal plans.

what's cookin'

OK so I am a day behind. Sorry, yesterday was a busy day. We have a new member of the "sippy cup" gang and boy is she a doll. She will fit right in. I feel so blessed because of these kids and their families. I love spending my days with them and because of them I get to have my dream job, Mama! Life is good. Here is what's on the menu this week.

Monday ~ Jambalaya with shrimp and sausage, rolls

Tuesday ~ Roasted Chicken, Steamed Cauliflower, Baked Butternut Squash

Wednesday ~ Chili (carry over from last week), cornbread

Thursday ~ Lasagna, salad, garlic bread

Friday ~ leftovers

Saturday ~ tacos

Sunday ~ Cameron chose pizza since it is his birthday. He also informed me that since it is his birthday week we should be eating pizza all week. I think not but I do give him and "A" for effort.

apple carrot cupcakes with cream cheese frosting

 

Have you ever noticed that if you talk about food on Facebook everyone wants the recipe?  Well here you go my friends, they are amazing!  Enjoyed them for breakfast this morning with my French Roast.

On a side note see that amazing cake plate?  That plate belonged to my Great Granny.  I remember as a girl my Mom serving our Birthday Cakes on that plate.  It is a cherished piece in this house and I love when I get to use it.

apple carrot cupcakes with cream cheese frosting

2 1/4 c flour, Pamela’s GF baking mix works just as well

2 tsp baking soda

2 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice

1 tsp salt

1 stick butter, softened

1 cup sugar

2 eggs

1 tsp vanilla

2 apples, grated (I used Honey Crisp this time)

2 cups grated carrots

Preheat oven to 350.  Mix butter, sugar, eggs and vanilla.  Add salt and pumpkin pie spice.  Next gradually add flour and baking soda.  Fold in Carrots and Apples.  Line muffin pan with paper liners or I prefer just to spray with Pam.  Bake 17 –21 minutes or until tooth pick comes out clean.  Cool completely.  Yield: 24

cream cheese frosting ~ I did adapt this from the Barefoot Contessa

1 ~ 8oz block of cream cheese, softened

1 stick of butter, softened

1 1/4 cup powdered sugar

1 tsp almond extract

1 tsp vanilla extract

Put butter and cream cheese in mixer and combine well.  Add extracts and mix.  Slowly add powdered sugar and you have just made a little heaven on earth.  This is my go to frosting.  I filled a lunch baggie, snipped the tip and away I went.  We even have some left today for my “sippy cup” gang’s snack, I am going to put it on graham crackers for them.  These kids eat well!

perfect fall meal

 

Last night I had a PEO meeting to get to so I knew I needed to provide a filling but quick meal before I rushed out to my meeting.  I “borrowed” a few cookbooks this weekend from Mimi and I found this recipe for Creamy Tomato Soup.  Amazing!  So easy, served with sharp cheddar, crackers and honey crisp apples a.k.a a “French plate” (thanks Miss Lissa) and you have the perfect fall meal.  Talk about comfort food.

Creamy Tomato Soup

olive oil, 2 tbsp

medium white onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic

1 Cup chicken broth

4 fresh tomatoes, chopped

1/2 cup tomato paste

1 tsp thyme

salt and pepper

3 cups milk

In 2 quart stock pan sauté your onions and minced garlic with the olive oil for about 5 min.  Add spices, tomatoes and chicken broth.  Cook another 5 min on medium heat.  Remove tomatoes and puree in blender.  We left ours chunky. Put tomatoes back in broth.  Add milk and tomato paste.  Simmer on low and stir for about 10 minutes and be ready to have a big bowl of goodness.

Enjoy!

what’s cookin’

 

I borrowed a few cookbooks from Mimi this week.  I found 2 of our dinners in the Weight Watchers Momentum cookbook.  They look yummy!  I will post points with those.

Monday

Spaghetti, Bread, Salad

Tuesday

Creamy Tomato Soup ~ 4pts for 1 cup

cheese and crackers, honey crisp apples

Wednesday

Chicken and Rice with Artichoke Hearts ~ 8pts

Salad

Thursday

Macaroni and Cheese

Fish Sticks and Apple Sauce

Friday

Chili and Cornbread

Saturday ~ Our 11th Anniversary

Date night and the boys are having pizza!

Sunday

Butternut Squash Soup

Rolls, Salad

{this moment}

~ a brief moment that warms my heart…

a change of seasons

With tomorrow being October 1, crazy I know, we did a little change of seasons this weekend out front.  I love pumpkins, mums, apples, hay and corn stalks.  I actually talked Mr. Miller into a hay bail and corn stalks this year, I think he is getting soft in his old age.  He worked so hard Sunday afternoon for me.  Our neighbors, Misty and Craig, were generous and shared some fountain grass and other plants that I am not sure of the names but they will look great in the the spring.

On another note with tomorrow being October 1 that meant I got to spend the morning at the DMV.  UGH…car tags and inspections.  Hey it only took 2 1/2 hours total so not too bad.  Mr. Miller stayed home with Henry and the rest of the “sippy cup” gang aka my daycare kids and away I went.  I did give him the option of doing the DMV and he opted to stay home and be me.

Have you put your pumpkins out yet?

I love my $2 wreath that I bought last year at end of season.  Michael’s has great deals for change of season.

what’s in your pantry?

 

Last week I actually got to pick Cameron up from school and I got to visit with my friend Tina.  She told me about another Mama from STM that had started a blog about recipes and being budget conscious when it comes to feeding your family. 

Middle Class Magic is a blog written by a Mom who would go shopping every week and buy what she thought she needed.  Well a few weeks ago she got home and realized that she had no room in the pantry or freezer for what she bought.  She decided that for 1 month she was going to give herself $30 for fresh produce and milk every week and only “shop” to feed her family from her pantry and freezer. 

It made me think.  I am good about planning a menu, but do I always look in my pantry and freezer first, no.  So starting this week I am opening that dark place known as the pantry and feeding the crew from there.  Now I am pretty frugal when it comes to buying extras so I won’t be able to go as far as she can but it did make me aware of other places I could save on the grocery budget.

Tonight we are having her Chicken and Noodles.  I am excited and I had everything in my own pantry.  Check her out and then check out your pantry what do you have hiding in there?

what’s cookin’

 

Monday

Butternut Squash Soup, Fresh Rolls

Tuesday

Chicken and Noodles, Salad

Wednesday

Grilled Cheese, Tomato Soup

Thursday

Bierocks, Peas

Friday

Leftovers

Saturday

At Mimi’s

Sunday

Kielbasa, Kraut and Apples, Mashed Potatoes

{this moment}

~ a brief moment that warms my heart…

my favorite time

 

days are getting shorter and the nights longer,

there will soon be a crisp to the mornings,

soups and stew will fill the Crockpot,

oh how I love this season of Fall

when we go from this

to this

fish story ~ part 2

Here you go Nana…

Once upon a time in a place called Lake Pana there was a little cottage on the point.  The Deacon and Pops would visit there a few times a year and a little boy named, Cameron, loved to go fishing with his Nana. Now Cameron has a little brother named Henry.  Cameron had told his Mama and Daddy for 6 hours in the car that he was going to teach Henry how to fish.

Mama and Daddy barely got the car in park and the boys were on the dock with the Deacon and Pops.  Cameron has had 3 years of practice with the Deacon and has become quite the fisherman with his Nemo pole but this trip he tried one on the big poles.  The first day was a little slow.  That night he dreamed of catching the big one while Henry tried to keep everyone up.

Cameron and the Deacon were up bright and early the next morning and after a brief church service they set out to fish.

They caught a few, some big and some small.  But that evening just as the fire flies were beginning to start out and Mama, Daddy, Henry and the Deacon were sitting out at the picnic table they heard a shriek of delight.  “Pops, Pops its a big one!”  The Deacon ran for the net and off we took toward the shore.  This is what we saw.

Mama wanted to know if Cameron really caught that, Daddy said “Yes, he did!” 

    We decided this one was scale worthy.

   5 pounds!  Cameron and his little brother Henry both felt that Daddy could just keep it close to him.

That fish was almost as long as Henry.

Thanks to our neighbor, Mr. Tim the friendly catfish had a spacious hotel room for the rest of the weekend until the Millers headed back to Kansas City.

Thus ends the story about a little boy and his first big catch.  Maybe he should be Captain Ahab for Halloween?