tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16125623181049461032024-03-08T16:26:11.085-08:00Live. Love. Food.Meredith A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02380232595791603308noreply@blogger.comBlogger30125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1612562318104946103.post-10758976800103693532008-04-24T11:21:00.000-07:002008-04-24T11:22:12.134-07:00More food pictures!<div style="MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; TEXT-ALIGN: center">I have been awful about posting frequently, but maybe I will get into the habit soon! I know that I love pictures when I go to a blog, so why not put more pictures on my own blog? Well, here are more pictures!<br /><br />Here is one of our dinners last week: Lentil Taco Salad (Mmmmm!)<br /><a href="http://bp1.blogger.com/__-ZefN7r4GU/SBDPw_mALaI/AAAAAAAAA5s/P0ET1pu94rw/s1600-h/CIMG0051.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_" alt="" src="http://bp1.blogger.com/__-ZefN7r4GU/SBDPw_mALaI/AAAAAAAAA5s/P0ET1pu94rw/s160/CIMG0051.JPG" border="0" /></a> </div>Here is dinner last night: Parsley Pesto Pasta (Homemade Pesto) w/ Fresh Tomatoes & Side Salad w/ sunflower seeds and raisins<br /><div style="MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; TEXT-ALIGN: center"><a href="http://bp2.blogger.com/__-ZefN7r4GU/SBDPzPmALbI/AAAAAAAAA50/KPHJJhgDu4s/s1600-h/CIMG0072.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_" alt="" src="http://bp2.blogger.com/__-ZefN7r4GU/SBDPzPmALbI/AAAAAAAAA50/KPHJJhgDu4s/s160/CIMG0072.JPG" border="0" /></a> </div>Here is what I am eating right now for lunch: Veggie Burger on an Ezekiel 4:9 Bun topped w/ Smashed Avocado, & Field Greens<br /><div style="MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; TEXT-ALIGN: center"><a href="http://bp1.blogger.com/__-ZefN7r4GU/SBDP0_mALcI/AAAAAAAAA58/1sn3xLb-eok/s1600-h/CIMG0075.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_" alt="" src="http://bp1.blogger.com/__-ZefN7r4GU/SBDP0_mALcI/AAAAAAAAA58/1sn3xLb-eok/s160/CIMG0075.JPG" border="0" /></a> </div><div style='clear:both; text-align:CENTER'><a href='http://picasa.google.com/blogger/' target='ext'><img src='http://photos1.blogger.com/pbp.gif' alt='Posted by Picasa' style='border: 0px none ; padding: 0px; background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 50%; -moz-background-clip: initial; -moz-background-origin: initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: initial;' align='middle' border='0' /></a></div>Meredith A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02380232595791603308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1612562318104946103.post-1213218432145709172008-04-15T06:15:00.000-07:002008-04-15T06:38:49.463-07:00Menu Plan Monday: Week of April 15th, 2008I know, it's Tuesday, but I just didn't get a chance to post my meal plan yesterday! This is the plan for this week:<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Monday: </span><a href="http://www.recipezaar.com/169764">Baked Parmesan Tilapia</a> <span style="font-style: italic;">w/ sauteed fresh spinach & tomatoes, over garlic quinoa</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tuesday:</span> Cabbage & Carrot Soba Noodles <span style="font-style: italic;">w/ side of orange slices</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Wednesday: </span><a href="http://www.keeperofthehome.org/2008/02/delicious-nutri.html">Veggie Pot Pie</a> <span style="font-style: italic;">w/ side of fresh fruit</span><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-weight: bold;">Thursday: </span>Lentil Tacos topped with sliced avocado <span style="font-style: italic;">w/ side salad</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Friday: </span>Date night!<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Saturday:</span> Leftovers<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Sunday: </span>Grilled Cheese & Tomato Soup<br /><br />Also, I realized I never post pictures of our food! So here is a dinner from last week:<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tortilla Soup w/ side of refried black beans (tortilla chips on the side)</span><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://bp1.blogger.com/__-ZefN7r4GU/SAStAepGv6I/AAAAAAAAA2U/ij7UA7udWVc/s1600-h/CIMG0026.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://bp1.blogger.com/__-ZefN7r4GU/SAStAepGv6I/AAAAAAAAA2U/ij7UA7udWVc/s200/CIMG0026.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5189462894374731682" border="0" /></a><br />And here is what I had for breakfast today:<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">1/2 Grapefruit, 1 scrambled egg w/ spinach, mushrooms, & onion<br />1 cup <a href="http://www.yogitea.com/Pages/OurTeas/BodyTeas/WMothertoBe.html">Mother to Be Tea</a><br /></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://bp2.blogger.com/__-ZefN7r4GU/SASteupGv7I/AAAAAAAAA2c/kr8DJA4EpvM/s1600-h/CIMG0039.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://bp2.blogger.com/__-ZefN7r4GU/SASteupGv7I/AAAAAAAAA2c/kr8DJA4EpvM/s200/CIMG0039.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5189463414065774514" border="0" /></a><br />I sprinkled about 1/2 T of nutritional yeast on top of the eggs. The nutritional yeast is a good source of vitamin B12 (along with the egg). I also had 2 of the cookies I made last night:<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.recipezaar.com/54351"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Best Oatmeal Cookies</span></a><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://bp2.blogger.com/__-ZefN7r4GU/SASuNupGv8I/AAAAAAAAA2k/EDZRFMkIz68/s1600-h/CIMG0043.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://bp2.blogger.com/__-ZefN7r4GU/SASuNupGv8I/AAAAAAAAA2k/EDZRFMkIz68/s200/CIMG0043.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5189464221519626178" border="0" /></a><br />Here is the <a href="http://www.recipezaar.com/54351">recipe</a>. YUM! These came out SO good! I cut the recipe by 1/3, used whole wheat flour instead of white, and cranberries instead of raisins.<br /><br />So, that is what stuff looks like around here! I think I am going to try to make a habit of posting more pictures of our food!<br /><br />For more meal plans, visit <a href="http://orgjunkie.com/">OrgJunkie</a>!Meredith A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02380232595791603308noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1612562318104946103.post-70168559464754806502008-03-24T15:42:00.001-07:002008-03-24T15:59:04.098-07:00Menu Plan Monday: Week of March 24th, 2008This week isn't too busy, so I am trying some new recipes.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Monday: </span><a href="http://www.veggiemealplans.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1060:lentil-radish-and-spinach-stuffed-pita&catid=1:recipes&Itemid=67">Lentil, Radish, and Spinach Stuffed Pita w/ Carrot Salad</a> (I didn't make it last week... so, I am trying it today!)<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tuesday:</span> <a href="http://www.veggiemealplans.com/index.php?view=article&catid=1%3Arecipes&id=114%3Abetter-than-bacon-blts-with-mango-mayonnaise&Itemid=67&option=com_content">Better Than Bacon BLTs</a> w/ Pasta Salad & Orange Wedges<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Wednesday:</span> Veggie Enchiladas w/ Side of Black Beans (I am making this one up)<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Thursday:</span> <a href="http://www.katheats.com/?p=2716">Pumpkin Pasta</a> w/ Side Salad<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Friday: </span>DATE NIGHT!<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Saturday:</span> Crockpot Peanut Chicken w/ Brown Rice & Stir Fried Asian Veggies<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Sunday: </span>Leftovers!<br /><br />So, I found this great new blog. It is called <a href="http://www.katheats.com/">Kath Eats Real Food</a>. She has some great ideas on there! She is also studying to become a Registered Dietitian. I absolutely love being an RD, and it is great to hear about others entering into the field of nutrition with a great outlook on food and health.<br /><br />For more menu plan ideas, head over to <a href="http://orgjunkie.com/">OrgJunkie's Menu Plan Monday</a>!<br /><br />Have a beautiful day!Meredith A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02380232595791603308noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1612562318104946103.post-54041969019339177732008-03-17T17:55:00.000-07:002008-03-17T18:08:28.111-07:00Menu Plan Monday: Week of March 17th, 2008I am LOVING the second trimester so far... cooking and planning meals has returned to normal. Thank goodness!<br /><br />So, here is this weeks meal plan:<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Monday:</span> <span style=";font-family:Perpetua;font-size:12;" >BBQ Chicken Pizza w/ side of fresh pineapple</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tuesday:</span><span style=";font-family:Perpetua;font-size:12;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><span style="font-style: italic;">(We are having company)</span> <a href="http://www.veggiemealplans.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=889:swiss-chard-soft-tacos-with-black-bean-and-corn-salsa&catid=1:recipes&Itemid=67">Swiss Chard Soft Tacos w/ sweet potato fries, side of mango</a></span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Wednesday: </span><span style=";font-family:Perpetua;font-size:12;" >Tempeh & Broccoli Stir Fry w/ Brown Rice</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Thursday:</span><a href="http://www.veggiemealplans.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1060:lentil-radish-and-spinach-stuffed-pita&catid=1:recipes&Itemid=67"><span style=";font-family:Perpetua;font-size:12;" > Lentil, Radish, & Spinach stuffed pita w/ Shredded Carrot Salad</span></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Friday:</span><span style=";font-family:Perpetua;font-size:12;" > DATE NIGHT! Hopefully Indian food!</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Saturday:</span> <span style=";font-family:Perpetua;font-size:12;" >Leftovers or Honey Baked Lentils</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Sunday:</span> <span style=";font-family:Perpetua;font-size:12;" >Potluck at church -<b style=""> </b>Banana Bread and maybe something else</span><br /></div><span style=";font-family:Perpetua;font-size:12;" ></span></div><span style=";font-family:Perpetua;font-size:12;" ><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:georgia;">I am also MAYBE going to try this recipe for our company tomorrow: </span><a style="font-family: georgia;" href="http://rawglow.com/recipe7.htm">Raw Apple Pie</a><span style="font-family:georgia;">. It sounds amazing and so very healthy... I will let you know if I try it! I am a bit nervous about trying it because if I mess it up, that is a lot of wasted expensive ingredients!<br /><br />Visit <a href="http://orgjunkie.com/">OrgJunkie's Blog</a> for more menus!<br /></span><br /></span></span></span></span>Meredith A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02380232595791603308noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1612562318104946103.post-66951977749531596372008-03-05T11:27:00.000-08:002008-03-05T11:30:23.434-08:00YAY!We had our first midwife appointment today... and we got to hear the heartbeat!!!!!!!<br /><br />I am so so so very excited! My husband and I both started crying. What and incredible experience!<br /><br />The midwife said everything is going great at this point, and the baby seems healthy! Looks like our due date is September 19th, 2008 (give or take 2 weeks :)!<br /><br />YAY!Meredith A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02380232595791603308noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1612562318104946103.post-38985725408072596352008-02-18T15:24:00.000-08:002008-02-18T15:41:18.428-08:00Menu Plan Monday: Week Of February 18, 2007This week is going to be interesting and busy. I work with the youth at church, and we are leaving Friday morning to go on retreat through Sunday afternoon. So... I will need to have things frozen/easy to prepare for my sweet husband to have over the weekend!<br /><br />Without further ado:<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Monday: </span><a href="http://www.veggiemealplans.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=549:red-lentil-dal&catid=1:recipes&Itemid=67">Lentil Dal</a>, <a href="http://www.recipezaar.com/103282">Coconut Cabbage</a>, and Pita Bread<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tuesday:</span> Baked Potatoes, Broccoli, <a href="http://www.biblicalwomanhoodonline.com/2007/12/recipe-pumpkin-rolls-you-cant-stop.html">Pumpkin Rolls</a>, and Salad<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Wednesday: </span><a href="http://www.veggiemealplans.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=143:chipotle-bean-burgers-with-cilantro-sauce&catid=1:recipes&Itemid=67">Bean Burgers</a> w/ Oven Baked French Fries<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Thursday:</span> Tomato Pasta (I think?)<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Friday - Sunday</span> (for my husband): Pizza, Bean Burgers, Leftovers, Quesdillas<br /><br />I am also preparing one of the breakfast meals at the retreat. Here is what I am planning:<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Whole Grain Pancakes</span><span style="font-style: italic;"><br />Muffins (not sure what kind yet)</span><span style="font-style: italic;"><br />Fruit<br /></span><div style="text-align: left;"><br />I am going to make the dry mixes for the pancakes and muffins in advance. Any recommendations on muffins? I LOVE <a href="http://www.biblicalwomanhoodonline.com/2006/03/carrot-apple-raisin-coconut-muffins.html">this recipe made with whole wheat flour</a>, but I don't know if the teens will.<br /><br />Mmmm... Lentil Dal for dinner!!! I better get cooking!<br /><br />Head over to <a href="http://orgjunkie.com/2008/02/menu-plan-monday-feb-18th.html">Org Junkie's</a> blog for more menu plans!!<br /><span style="font-style: italic;"></span></div></div>Meredith A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02380232595791603308noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1612562318104946103.post-76426774508211221582008-02-11T05:46:00.000-08:002008-02-11T06:06:16.480-08:00Menu Plan Monday: Week of Feb 11, 2008So... the name of my blog is "Live. Love. Food.", but I have not been loving food very much lately. I never in a million years thought it would be possible for something to make me not want to cook!!<br /><br />Well, this pregnancy has defiantly put a kink in my favorite thing to do! I not only don't really want to cook anything, but nothing sounds good. Oh well, I am sure this will pass... and then everything will sound good (let's hope)! My sweet husband has been so patient and kind through all of this! He has not only helped prepare meals, but has been ok with sometimes having cereal for dinner!<br /><br />Without further rambling, here is this weeks meal plan:<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Monday: </span>Bok Choy, Veggie, and Tofu Stir Fry over Soba Noodles<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tuesday: </span><a href="http://www.veggiemealplans.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=997:red-lentil-hummus&catid=1:recipes&Itemid=67">Red Lentil Hummus</a> on Pita Bread Sandwiches w/ side salad<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Wednesday: </span>Church Fellowship Meal - I am bringing a loaf of bread<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Thursday: </span>Grilled Tilapia topped with Cabbage & Radish Slaw and Tortilla Strips w/ side of roasted sweet potatoes<span style="font-style: italic;font-size:85%;" ><br /> (This is a treat for Valentines Day... I am also going to serve sparking cider and make a dessert, not sure what yet)</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Friday: </span>Date Night!<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Saturday:</span> <a href="http://www.veggiemealplans.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=195:veggie-loaf-with-fresh-tomato-sauce-mashed-potatoes-and-kale&catid=1:recipes&Itemid=67">Veggie Loaf</a> w/ Garlic Mashed Potatoes and Salad<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Sunday:</span> Leftovers<br /><br />My reasoning for these are: the stir fry won't take very long, and the lentil hummus I can prepare earlier in the day and assemble for dinner, the veggie loaf will make leftovers... always quick!<br /><br />Hopefully, this will be a pretty simple week! Does anyone have any other ideas for quick, yummy meals?Meredith A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02380232595791603308noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1612562318104946103.post-72210951481425896632008-02-08T10:57:00.000-08:002008-02-08T11:04:57.857-08:00I won, I won!!So, about a week ago, there was a HUGE giveaway carnival over at <a href="http://rocksinmydryer.typepad.com/reviews/">Bloggy Giveaways</a>. I spent... oh, 5 or 6 hours entering the contests. Ridiculous, but completely addicting I tell you.<br /><br />Well, it paid off! I won a BEAUTIFUL set of handmade cards from Heather over at <a href="http://coolzebras.blogspot.com/">Cool Zebras</a>. Here they are (to be honest, I stole the pictures she posted on her blog... I hate dealing with our camera sometimes! They look even cuter in person!):<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://bp0.blogger.com/__-ZefN7r4GU/R6ynbjTUr7I/AAAAAAAAAvQ/-plSfEkSNi0/s1600-h/cards2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://bp0.blogger.com/__-ZefN7r4GU/R6ynbjTUr7I/AAAAAAAAAvQ/-plSfEkSNi0/s200/cards2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5164686964461711282" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://bp0.blogger.com/__-ZefN7r4GU/R6ynWjTUr6I/AAAAAAAAAvI/moyk_-AdacM/s1600-h/cards1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://bp0.blogger.com/__-ZefN7r4GU/R6ynWjTUr6I/AAAAAAAAAvI/moyk_-AdacM/s200/cards1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5164686878562365346" border="0" /></a><br />How cute are those?? I will totally be needing them for upcoming thank you notes! Thanks Heather!<br /><br /><img src="file:///C:/DOCUME%7E1/MEREDI%7E1/LOCALS%7E1/Temp/moz-screenshot-6.jpg" alt="" /><img src="file:///C:/DOCUME%7E1/MEREDI%7E1/LOCALS%7E1/Temp/moz-screenshot-7.jpg" alt="" />Meredith A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02380232595791603308noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1612562318104946103.post-71297473995782530632008-01-31T11:46:00.000-08:002008-01-31T12:03:51.289-08:00News and a Meme<strong><span style="font-weight: normal;">So, for all 2 people who read this blog... the reason I have been gone for a bit is due to some exciting news. That's right, we are expecting! My husband and I are SO excited that the Lord has blessed us with this new life!!<br /><br />The reason I haven't been blogging is because of my new friend "morning sickness". Oh, how I hate morning sickness... first, because it isn't just in the morning it is ALL.DAY.LONG! Second, I am not actually throwing up, I am just nauseous. This is one time in my life where I wish I would throw up because maybe it would make me feel better!<br /><br />So, now for some fun... I was tagged for a Meme by </span><a style="font-weight: normal;" href="http://greenstylemom.blogspot.com/">GreenStyleMom</a>.<br /><br />In the Past year (I'm using 2007):<br /><em>What was your most embarrassing moment?</em></strong><br />Hmmm... this is a hard one. I guess when you get older, you don't really get embarrassed easily! I would have to say it was when I was taking my niece to the bathroom, and she yelled out "I think someone is going poop!"... and in fact, we walked out at the same time as the person in the stall next to us who was as embarrassed as me!<br /><br /><strong><em>What are you proudest of achieving?</em></strong><br />In the past year I am most proudest of finishing my internship, passing the exam to become a registered dietitian, and getting licensed!<br /><br /><strong><em>What would you do differently with the benefit of hindsight?</em></strong><br />I would call my friends more often. We all recently got married or had children, and I think we have all been "too busy" to call one another. I wish I would have called more.<br /><br /><strong><em>What did you love about last year?</em></strong><br />I loved being married! We had a pretty rough year with our <a href="http://livelovefood.blogspot.com/2007/12/please-pray.html">car accident</a>. It happened in July, and I am still going through physical therapy and the legal stuff is STILL going on. It definatly brought my husband and I closer.<br /><br /><strong>In the Next year (I'm using 2008):</strong><br /><strong><em>What do you want to say you accomplished next year on this day? </em></strong><br />That I have a safe, natural birth and deliver a beautiful blessing in September!<br /><br /><strong><em>What are you looking most forward to in the next year?</em></strong><br />Our baby! I am looking forward to having this new life grow inside of me and learn more about myself in the process.<br /><br /><strong><em>What goal of yours are you most tantalized by?<br /></em></strong>Hmmm....<br /><br /><strong><em>If you knew you only had the next year to live, what would you make sure to do? What is stopping you?</em></strong><br />Spend more time with friends. Travel. Laugh more. Worry less.Meredith A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02380232595791603308noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1612562318104946103.post-25069525490172569122008-01-09T10:01:00.000-08:002008-01-09T10:15:14.941-08:00Look what I found, look what I found!I AM SO EXCITED! We have been trying to slowly decorate our home, and the most recent room has been the office. I have really wanted a chair in here to have a "reading nook". SO......... Look what I found at Goodwill today for $4.99 -<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://bp0.blogger.com/__-ZefN7r4GU/R4UMnGGdXkI/AAAAAAAAAuI/jbED1xZyj6k/s1600-h/CIMG0273.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://bp0.blogger.com/__-ZefN7r4GU/R4UMnGGdXkI/AAAAAAAAAuI/jbED1xZyj6k/s200/CIMG0273.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5153539214387535426" border="0" /></a>Ok, yes I said four dollars and ninety-nine cents... SO EXCITED! How cute is this antique chair? One leg is a TINY bit wobbly, but nothing you notice sitting in it.<br /><br />I found it as soon as I walked in the store, and didn't want anyone else to have it. I picked it up, not knowing it weighed at least 35 pounds, and realized I couldn't exactly carry it around with me while I shopped for other bargains.<br /><br />So, I took it to the front and asked if they could hold it... they said yes, but I was still paranoid that someone else would grab up my amazing find! As I kept shopping, about every 10 seconds, I would glance up front making sure my new treasure wasn't being taken to a new home. Seriously, I was ready to fight anyone who even thought about touching it.<br /><br />I know, I know... I sound insane, but FOUR DOLLARS AND NINETY-NINE CENTS! Who wouldn't want to strap it to their back so no one else could take it?<br /><br />Anyways... I am excited! Now, I am off to finish it off by draping it with the asparagus colored woven throw I found at Tuesday Morning for about $5! YAY!Meredith A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02380232595791603308noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1612562318104946103.post-29670143765164956182007-12-31T15:22:00.000-08:002007-12-31T15:44:56.100-08:00New Years!Wow, I have so many ideas for things I want to post about, but it always seems to get away from me!<br /><br />Tonight we are having some friends over (they have 4 kiddos) to celebrate New Years. We weren't sure until today that they were coming over, so I had no idea what I was going to make. I had barely anything in the fridge, and to top it off, their kids are very very picky eaters! So, I decided on this menu and made a run to Whole Foods:<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Tortilla Chips <span style="font-style: italic;">w/ Cilantro Salsa</span><br />Spinach Dip - <span style="font-style: italic;">w/ crackers, carrot & celery sticks<br /></span><a href="http://www.recipezaar.com/119045">Popcorn</a> <span style="font-style: italic;">(Not from a bag!)<br /></span>Mediterranean Pasta <span style="font-style: italic;">(recipe below)</span><br />Cheese Pizza <span style="font-style: italic;">(from Whole Foods)</span><br />Citrus Brownies <span style="font-style: italic;">(recipe below)<br /></span>Sparkling Apple Juice<br />White Wine (Dry Comal Creek)<span style="font-style: italic;"><br /><br /></span><div style="text-align: left;">The pasta is a recipe I made up about a year ago, and my husband LOVES it:<br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(0, 0, 102);"><br />Mediterranean Pasta</span><br /><div style="text-align: left; color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 102);">1lb Whole Wheat Penne Pasta</span><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 102);"><br />6oz feta cheese</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 102);"><br />1/4 white onion - chopped</span><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 102);"><br />3 cloves garlic - minced</span><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 102);"><br />1 can artichoke hearts - drained</span><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 102);"><br />1 can hearts of palm - drained</span><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 102);"><br />1 can baby corn - drained</span><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 102);"><br />1 jar roasted red bell peppers - drained</span><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 102);"><br />1/4 cup white vinegar</span><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 102);"><br />1 cup olive oil</span><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 102);"><br />2 teaspoons basil</span><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 102);"><br />1 teaspoon oregano</span><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 102);"><br />1/2 teaspoon sea salt</span><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 102);"><br />pepper as desired</span><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(0, 0, 102);"><br /><br />Combine all ingredients, except pasta and feta, in a large bowl. Cover and allow to marinate for at least 1 hour (can do in morning). </span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(0, 0, 102);">Cook pasta according to directions. Drain and rinse with cold water. Add to serving bowl.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 102);">Heat large wok over medium heat and add marinated vegetables. Sautee for 5-10minutes.</span><br /><br />Add vegetables and feta to pasta. Serve!</span><br /></span></div><br />For the brownies, I use <a href="http://www.recipezaar.com/32204">this recipe</a> and add the zest of one orange and 2 teaspoons orange juice.<br /><br />So, hopefully this evening will go over well. What is everyone else doing for New Years Eve?<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;"></span><span style="font-style: italic;"></span></div><span style="font-style: italic;"></span></div>Meredith A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02380232595791603308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1612562318104946103.post-8605612422706257342007-12-25T15:40:00.001-08:002007-12-25T15:43:43.272-08:00Today...... is a wonderful day filled with hope. It is a hard day for some, and an incredibly joyous day for others. I pray that you will be filled with the hope that the Lord brings. I pray that we may continue to celebrate everyday we are given.<br /><br />Peace. Love. Blessings.Meredith A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02380232595791603308noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1612562318104946103.post-9654692891218428002007-12-17T13:30:00.000-08:002007-12-17T13:55:42.393-08:00Menu Plan Monday: Week of December 17, 2007<a href="javascript:void(0)" tabindex="10" onclick="return false;"><span></span></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://orgjunkie.com/2007/12/menu-plan-monday-dec-17th.html"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://bp2.blogger.com/__-ZefN7r4GU/R2bv3WGdXjI/AAAAAAAAAto/O3SkH9FBpQc/s200/menuplanmonday.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5145063358421884466" border="0" /></a><br />Wow, has it really been a week since I last posted? My goodness! Well the theme of this weeks menu is: FRUGAL! The budget is a bit tight the rest of the month, so I am doing my best to keep it as cheap as possible!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Monday: </span><a href="http://www.veggiemealplans.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=889:swiss-chard-soft-tacos-with-black-bean-and-corn-salsa&catid=1:recipes&Itemid=67">Swiss Chard Soft Tacos </a><span style="font-style: italic;"><a href="http://www.veggiemealplans.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=889:swiss-chard-soft-tacos-with-black-bean-and-corn-salsa&catid=1:recipes&Itemid=67">w/ black bean & corn salsa</a>, side of sliced oranges</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tuesday:</span> Split Pea Soup <span style="font-style: italic;">w/ homemade bread & side salad topped with <a href="http://happyfoody.blogspot.com/2006/07/balsamic-vinegarette.html">vinaigrette</a> </span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Wednesday: </span>Husband's work Christmas Party - <span style="font-style: italic;">leftover </span><a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://livelovefood.blogspot.com/2007/12/menu-plan-monday-week-of-dec-112007.html">Black Bean Burgers</a><span style="font-style: italic;"> I froze from last week if we are still hungry</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Thursday:</span> <a href="http://happyfoody.blogspot.com/2006/10/honey-baked-lentils.html">Honey Baked Lentils</a> <span style="font-style: italic;">w/ side salad topped with<a href="http://orangette.blogspot.com/2007/10/sneaky-sneaky.html"> Tahini Dressing</a></span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Friday:</span> Date Night (We always use the <a href="http://entertainment.com/discount/home.shtml">Entertainment Book</a>)<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Weekend/Other:</span> Leftovers, Whole Wheat Pasta w/ tomato sauce<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Snacks: </span>Zucchini Bread, Pumpkin Bread, Popcorn (the <a href="http://www.recipezaar.com/119045">real</a> kind!)<br /><br />I had an exciting moment at Whole Foods - Organic Valley Butter is on sale for $4.99 a pound, and then there is a coupon for $1.50 off in the new Mambo Sprouts coupon book! YAY! (I wish I could find local butter, but I have yet to find any!)<br /><br />Well, that is the week - I was able to keep it at about $58 this week... I know, not as good as <a href="http://www.moneysavingmom.com/">Crystal</a> who does it for $35 a week, but we buy all organic, and local if possible. We also buy things as least processed as possible - thereby decreasing the amount of coupons available. Most coupons are for processed/packaged foods.<br /><br />I also shop at Whole Foods which tends to be pricier, but I like supporting <a href="http://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/company/index.html">a company</a> who has higher standards than most with what they will offer the public. I wish I could shop at farmers markets more, but they are hit or miss here.<br /><br />Our usual grocery bill is between $75-100 per week including all toiletries, <a href="http://www.ecover.com/Default.aspx?nc=y">cleaning supplies</a>, and things like probiotics.<br /><br />My question to y'all (all 2 of you who read this!) is: <span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">How much is your weekly grocery bill? And, how do you keep it as frugal as possible?<br /><br /><br /></span>Meredith A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02380232595791603308noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1612562318104946103.post-66547278329743388822007-12-11T12:25:00.001-08:002007-12-11T12:45:49.198-08:00Menu Plan Monday: Week of Dec 11,2007<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://bp0.blogger.com/__-ZefN7r4GU/R17ypIwgKNI/AAAAAAAAAtg/r3-FpptpvEc/s1600-h/menuplanmonday.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://bp0.blogger.com/__-ZefN7r4GU/R17ypIwgKNI/AAAAAAAAAtg/r3-FpptpvEc/s200/menuplanmonday.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5142814613043161298" border="0" /></a><br />Ok, so this week has been a little hectic. We spent all day Monday in mediation with a bunch of lawyers for <a href="http://livelovefood.blogspot.com/2007/12/please-pray.html">this</a>. I feel so out of whack and off schedule. So, here I am doing Menu Plan <span style="font-weight: bold;">Monday</span> on Tuesday...<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Monday:</span><span style="font-size:85%;"> I pulled out leftover butternut squash soup from the freezer... so glad I had this on hand!</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tuesday:<span style="font-size:85%;"> </span></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><a href="http://www.veggiemealplans.com/">Orange Glazed Tofu</a> <span style="font-style: italic;">w/ Sesame Bok Choy and Brown Rice</span></span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Wednesday:</span> <span style="font-size:85%;"><a href="http://www.veggiemealplans.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=143:chipotle-bean-burgers-with-cilantro-sauce&catid=1:recipes&Itemid=67">Black Bean Burgers</a> <span style="font-style: italic;">w/ Sweet Potato Fries</span></span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Thursday:</span> <span style="font-size:85%;">Calcutta Eggplant</span> <span style="font-size:78%;">(from <a href="http://www.amazon.com/World-Food-Caf-Chris-Caldicott/dp/0711217513/ref=pd_bbs_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1197405439&sr=8-1">World Food Cafe</a> book)</span> <span style="font-size:85%;">& Red Lentil Dal <span style="font-style: italic;">w/ Naan & plain yogurt</span></span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Friday:</span> <span style="font-size:85%;">DATE NIGHT!</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Weekend/Other: </span><span style="font-size:85%;">Sauteed Mushroom & Veggie Tacos</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />Snacks: </span><span style="font-size:85%;">Zucchini bread</span>Meredith A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02380232595791603308noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1612562318104946103.post-51950005251602339252007-12-10T15:46:00.000-08:002007-12-10T15:55:57.758-08:00Please pray....Please pray for my husband and I right now. We were in a very bad car accident in July of this year (they had to use the jaws of life to get me out, and I had internal bleeding along with a whole list of other injuries). The accident actually happened on our one year wedding anniversary. I am so thankful we are alive today, but sometimes the "real world" issues can weigh down on you.<br /><br />The whole legal process and paying for medical bills is a bit overwhelming right now... basically we are not sure if there is going to be enough to cover my existing medical bills, and I am still seeing the doctor (my broken ribs haven't healed and I still am having back issues).<br /><br />I have never been in a situation like this. I had always thought that with an accident like this you would get a big chunk of money - at least that is what the media tells you. But no, that doesn't happen. I don't want a huge sum - all I want is medical bills paid!<br /><br />Sorry, I needed to vent. It is just frustrating how the whole system (legal and medical) works. So please pray that we will feel comforted that the Lord will take care of this situation and pray that we can turn it over to Him (that is the hardest part)!Meredith A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02380232595791603308noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1612562318104946103.post-5808984189428977512007-12-06T09:46:00.000-08:002007-12-06T10:00:44.945-08:00Making Your Home a Haven : Day 3 (& 4)I am taking the challenge to make my home a haven from Crystal, over at <a href="http://www.biblicalwomanhoodonline.com/blog.htm">Biblical Womanhood</a>. Today I am doing Wednesday's and Thursday's challenges to get caught up.<br /><br />Today I started with my <a href="http://livelovefood.blogspot.com/2007/12/better-late-than-never_756.html">morning routine</a>... and let me tell you how hard it was not to get on the computer before I finished it! Oh my goodness... it is terrible! I didn't realize what a draw this thing has on me. I know that having my morning routine in place will really help kick the bad habit of rolling out of bed and getting straight on the computer! Anyone else deal with this?<br /><br />The challenges for today (and yesterday) are:<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Refresh Your Spirit:</span> Morning routine and devotions are done! The verse I focused on today was Psalm 42:2 "My soul thirsts for God, for the living God."<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Take Time to Plan: </span><br /><br />To Do -<br /> (1) Call mom<br /> (2) Write patient notes<br /> (3) Call patients<br /> (4) E-mail my boss<br /> (5) Complete Ebay stuff (package and ship)<br /> (6) Laundry!! Including fold and put away!<br /> (7) Get oil change<br /> (8) E-mail a friend<br /> (9) Do all things on daily cleaning schedule (I will post this at some later date)<br /><br />How I am going to bless my family -<br /> This weekend I am going to make my husband breakfast (his favorite - blueberry pancakes!) in bed and allow him to have time to relax!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Do Something:</span><br /><br />Ok, today I am doing all laundry, cleaning the laundry room, picking up around the house, and cleaning the bathroom!<br /><br /><br />So that is the plan for today... we will see how it goes!<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span></span></span></span><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span><br /><br /></span>Meredith A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02380232595791603308noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1612562318104946103.post-64176934174540165842007-12-06T09:11:00.000-08:002007-12-06T09:44:27.122-08:00Making Your Home a Haven : Day 1 (& 2) UpdateOk, so yesterday I followed Crystal's challenges for day 1 & 2 (Monday and Tuesday). Creating my morning routine is something that I have needed to do!<br /><br />Our entry way is pretty bare right now. I haven't decorated it at all - just painted the walls. I was thinking "Oh, this should be easy, there is nothing in there, and it is pretty clean." WRONG! I had no idea how disgusting the baseboards were! I swept, mopped, picked up things out of place, cleaned the baseboards, and wiped down the front door inside and out (the rag was black from all the nastiness).<br /><br />Here are before pictures of our entry way: The first one is as if you are walking in to our house. The second is as if you are looking at the front door to walk out. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://bp3.blogger.com/__-ZefN7r4GU/R1gxd4NSZ7I/AAAAAAAAAsQ/0nCuMESHuJw/s1600-h/CIMG0175.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="http://bp3.blogger.com/__-ZefN7r4GU/R1gxd4NSZ7I/AAAAAAAAAsQ/0nCuMESHuJw/s200/CIMG0175.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5140913364017506226" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://bp1.blogger.com/__-ZefN7r4GU/R1gxUYNSZ6I/AAAAAAAAAsI/hcfuZdERdJA/s1600-h/CIMG0176.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://bp1.blogger.com/__-ZefN7r4GU/R1gxUYNSZ6I/AAAAAAAAAsI/hcfuZdERdJA/s200/CIMG0176.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5140913200808748962" border="0" /></a><br />So here are the after pictures:<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://bp0.blogger.com/__-ZefN7r4GU/R1gx2INSZ8I/AAAAAAAAAsY/sAxydjcFjFg/s1600-h/CIMG0182.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="http://bp0.blogger.com/__-ZefN7r4GU/R1gx2INSZ8I/AAAAAAAAAsY/sAxydjcFjFg/s200/CIMG0182.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5140913780629333954" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://bp3.blogger.com/__-ZefN7r4GU/R1gyP4NSZ-I/AAAAAAAAAso/BohD-SyyZRY/s1600-h/CIMG0183.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://bp3.blogger.com/__-ZefN7r4GU/R1gyP4NSZ-I/AAAAAAAAAso/BohD-SyyZRY/s200/CIMG0183.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5140914223010965474" border="0" /></a><br />Next, I moved on to the entry way closet.... I didn't realize how out of control and messy it was! All of the vacuum accessories were just thrown in there, there was all types of junk on the top shelf and I don't think I had ever cleaned the floor since we moved in! (Confession: I didn't even realize there was tile in there until yesterday!)<br /><br />So here is the before and after pictures:<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://bp3.blogger.com/__-ZefN7r4GU/R1gy54NSZ_I/AAAAAAAAAsw/kDzmQJ70Ggk/s1600-h/CIMG0179.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="http://bp3.blogger.com/__-ZefN7r4GU/R1gy54NSZ_I/AAAAAAAAAsw/kDzmQJ70Ggk/s200/CIMG0179.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5140914944565471218" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://bp3.blogger.com/__-ZefN7r4GU/R1gzc4NSaBI/AAAAAAAAAtA/u7lclJU9XII/s1600-h/CIMG0181.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://bp3.blogger.com/__-ZefN7r4GU/R1gzc4NSaBI/AAAAAAAAAtA/u7lclJU9XII/s200/CIMG0181.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5140915545860892690" border="0" /></a><br />Here is my living room before and after also:<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://bp1.blogger.com/__-ZefN7r4GU/R1gz1YNSaCI/AAAAAAAAAtI/uUrPXPyX3QU/s1600-h/CIMG0180.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="http://bp1.blogger.com/__-ZefN7r4GU/R1gz1YNSaCI/AAAAAAAAAtI/uUrPXPyX3QU/s200/CIMG0180.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5140915966767687714" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://bp1.blogger.com/__-ZefN7r4GU/R1gz9YNSaDI/AAAAAAAAAtQ/3iUXPrm_gIE/s1600-h/CIMG0184.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://bp1.blogger.com/__-ZefN7r4GU/R1gz9YNSaDI/AAAAAAAAAtQ/3iUXPrm_gIE/s200/CIMG0184.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5140916104206641202" border="0" /></a><br />The living room was pretty clean, but it needed a vacuum, put things in the right place, and a quick dust. I also added a nativity set that I found at the thrift store to the coffee table. I am not big on overly Christmas (like Santa...) decorations. I like to keep it simple, but was having a hard time finding something I liked. I saw this at the thrift store and fell in love! It is so simple and reflects the true meaning of Christmas! Here is a picture of my wonderful $5.99 find!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://bp2.blogger.com/__-ZefN7r4GU/R1g0woNSaEI/AAAAAAAAAtY/HezbtnSjBdY/s1600-h/CIMG0185.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://bp2.blogger.com/__-ZefN7r4GU/R1g0woNSaEI/AAAAAAAAAtY/HezbtnSjBdY/s200/CIMG0185.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5140916984674936898" border="0" /></a>So, that is it for yesterday's challenge... on to today's!Meredith A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02380232595791603308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1612562318104946103.post-27837112113864174772007-12-05T07:31:00.005-08:002007-12-05T07:59:19.480-08:00Better late than never!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.biblicalwomanhoodonline.com/blog.htm"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://bp3.blogger.com/__-ZefN7r4GU/R1bHrYNSZ1I/AAAAAAAAArc/UydNvTv6gBw/s200/HomeHaven.jpeg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5140515572736485202" border="0" /></a><br />Ok, so <a href="http://www.biblicalwomanhoodonline.com/blog.htm">Crystal over at Biblical Womanhood</a> started a challenge on Monday... and now it is Wednesday and I am just starting. Oh well, I NEED this so bad! So, better late than never! I am going to do Monday and Tuesday's challenge today. Yo can read all about the daily challenges over at <a href="http://www.biblicalwomanhoodonline.com/blog.htm">Crystal's blog</a> to get a better idea of what I am talking about.<br /><br />The challenge is: <a href="http://www.biblicalwomanhoodonline.com/2007/12/making-your-home-haven-challenge-day-1.html">Making Your Home a Haven! </a><br /><br /><h1 style="margin-top: 5px; margin-left: 4px; margin-right: 4px;"><span><span style="font-size:78%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Today's (Monday & Tuesday's) Challenge:</span><br /><span style="font-size:78%;"><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:78%;" >1. Refresh Your Spirit (5 minutes)</span></span></span></h1>Ok, done... I really need to work on this. I have been REALLY bad about spending time with the Lord daily. There always seems like there is something else to do that <span style="font-style: italic;">has</span> to get done. No true. I know deep down that my time with the Lord is top priority. My home feels more welcoming, I'm happier, I feel at peace, I am nicer to my husband, and everything runs so much easier when I take time with the Lord.<br /><br /><h1 style="margin-top: 5px; margin-left: 4px; margin-right: 4px;"><span><span style="font-size:78%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:78%;" >2. Take Time to Plan (5 minutes)</span><br /></span></span></h1>Morning Routine:<br />(1) Wake up... so hard for me! I could sleep till 9:00am everyday!<br />(2) Make bed... I have to do this, otherwise I will want to crawl back in!<br />(3) Put on yoga clothes and do 30 minutes of yoga... I feel 800 times better when I actually do this!<br />(4) Eat breakfast & drink tea while reading the bible and journaling... I think we already talked about how bad I need this!<br />(5) Shower, get dressed for the day... put on REAL clothes, even if I am cleaning that day!<br /><br />Ok, so the times I plan on doing all of this is still up in the air... any suggestions?<br /><br /><h1 style="margin-top: 5px; margin-left: 4px; margin-right: 4px;"><span style="font-size:78%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">3. Do Something! (5 -15 minutes)</span></span></h1>On Monday, Crystal challenged us to clean up the entry way, and on Tuesday she challenged us to clean up the living room! So here it goes! I will update this post later with pictures...Meredith A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02380232595791603308noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1612562318104946103.post-71382609569288087662007-12-03T16:37:00.001-08:002007-12-03T16:55:55.022-08:00Menu Plan Monday: Week of December 3, 2007<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://bp3.blogger.com/__-ZefN7r4GU/R1Sh04NSZ0I/AAAAAAAAArU/3cLvbSFG6q4/s1600-R/menuplanmonday.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://bp3.blogger.com/__-ZefN7r4GU/R1Sh04NSZ0I/AAAAAAAAArU/xSXW4jGR9dg/s200/menuplanmonday.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5139911004549965634" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Well, I feel weird about not posting for so long... I just sort of forgot! This weekend was very busy, but we got quite a bit done. Here is our menu for this week:<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Monday:</span> Spinach and Quinoa Stuffed Acorn Squash<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tuesday:</span> Green Bean and Sweet Potato Curry <span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">over Brown Rice</span></span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Wednesday:</span> BLT's <span style="font-size:85%;">w/ </span><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-size:85%;">crackers & spinach artichoke dip</span><br /> </span><span style="font-size:78%;">- Based on <a href="http://www.vegcooking.com/recipeshow.asp?RequestID=1238">this recipe</a>, but I am going to use tempeh instead... I'll let you know how that goes</span><span style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;">Thursday: </span>Whole Wheat Pasta tossed w/ Carrot Top & Walnut Pesto<span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;"> topped w/ fresh tomatoes</span></span><br /> <span style="font-size:78%;">- Based on <a href="http://www.veggiemealplans.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=119:linguine-with-pesto-asparagus-and-cherry-tomatoes&catid=1:recipes&Itemid=67">this recipe</a>, but using carrot tops instead of arugula </span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Friday:</span> Date Night!<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Weekend/Other:</span> Leftovers, <a href="http://www.recipezaar.com/62362">Blueberry Pancakes</a> <span style="font-size:78%;">(BEST recipe! I double the berries & use more wheat flour than white)</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Snacks:</span> Zucchini Bread<br /><br />Does anyone have a good Zucchini Bread recipe? The recipe I tried is REALLY sweet! It tastes good, but I don't think it is my favorite recipe.<br /><br />Have a beautiful week!Meredith A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02380232595791603308noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1612562318104946103.post-22171968619746080612007-11-26T10:27:00.002-08:002007-11-26T10:59:04.324-08:00Menu Plan Monday - Week of Nov 26, 2007<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://bp2.blogger.com/__-ZefN7r4GU/R0sQK0eONJI/AAAAAAAAArI/LdfGSiWDJ-s/s1600-h/menuplanmonday.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://bp2.blogger.com/__-ZefN7r4GU/R0sQK0eONJI/AAAAAAAAArI/LdfGSiWDJ-s/s200/menuplanmonday.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5137217578016322706" border="0" /></a><br /><span style=";font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;" >Both my husband and I feel like we need to detox from all of the Thanksgiving food!! My sister-in-law left us a huge portion of leftover cheesecake... and oh my goodness, I feel so yucky from eating all that cheesecake! I am going to post some pictures soon from our Thanksgiving... I was pretty happy with how everything turned out!<br /><br />This weeks meals are going to be pretty simple and healthy.<br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></span><span style=";font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;" ><b style="">Monday:</b> <st1:country-region st="on"><st1:place st="on">Turkey</st1:place></st1:country-region> Chili <span style="font-style: italic;">w/ <a href="http://happyfoody.blogspot.com/2007/04/salad-love.html">Side Salad</a> and Homemade Whole Wheat Rolls</span><i style=""><o:p></o:p></i><b style=""><br />Tuesday:</b> Green Bean Green Curry Stir Fry over Brown Rice<b style=""><br />Wednesday: </b><span style="font-family: georgia;">Veggie & Feta Stuffed</span><b style="font-family: georgia;"> </b><span style="font-family: georgia;">Calzones </span><span style="font-style: italic; font-family: georgia;">made w/ Whole Wheat Crust</span></span><span style="font-family: georgia;font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;" > </span> <span style="font-family: georgia;font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;" ><b style=""><br />Thursday:</b> <a href="http://happyfoody.blogspot.com/2006/10/honey-baked-lentils.html">Honey Baked Lentils</a> (I add some carrots or sweet potatoes)<span style="font-style: italic;"> Whole Wheat Toast & Spinach Citrus Salad</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />Friday: </span>Date night!<b style=""><br />Weekend/Other:</b> Leftovers, Split Pea Soup, Mushroom Quesadillas</span><span style=";font-family:times new roman;font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-family: georgia;font-size:100%;" ><b><br />Snacks: </b><a href="http://www.veggiemealplans.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=836:my-husbands-favorite-breakfast-bar&catid=1:recipes&Itemid=67">Breakfast Bars</a></span><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /><br />Mmmm... now I'm hungry. I'm gonna go grab some lunch. Maybe an almond butter & jelly sandwich.<br /></span></span><span style=";font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-family:arial;"></span></span>Meredith A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02380232595791603308noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1612562318104946103.post-43387630887926831462007-11-25T10:50:00.001-08:002007-11-25T11:20:17.347-08:00Oh my goodness, I smell like an Indian food restaurant...Ok, so there has been this issue at our house recently... it smells. Don't get me wrong, I actually love the smell of cumin, curry, and ginger... but not when it starts to permeate my clothes.<br /><br />Our spice cabinet has been infiltrating our house. As soon as you opened the front door, it smelled like I had just made Jungle curry for an entire army. I love that I can buy my spices in bulk from Whole Foods, but I didn't realize leaving them in the plastic baggies would cause such damage. Basically, the plastic baggies of cumin, curry, and ginger were allowing the smells to escape and permeate every porous surface in our house. I had put bowls of baking soda in the cabinet to hopefully absorb some of the smell, but it really made no difference. Candles and incense weren't making any difference, despite practically smoking out the whole kitchen.<br /><br />The other day, I couldn't take it anymore. I had my in-laws coming over for Thanksgiving, I could smell the spices on my clothes when I was away from the house, and my husband said, "It smells weird in here". That was it. It was war.<br /><br />I pulled out everything from the cabinet, sprayed it down with my vinegar/water/eucalyptus oil solution and wiped that sucker clean. It still smelled. Bad. The bottles themselves smelled. So then I wiped down all of the spice bottles. Still smelled.<br /><br />Finally I put the pungent spices (curry, ginger, cumin, cumin seed) from their baggies into glass jelly jars.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://bp1.blogger.com/__-ZefN7r4GU/R0nIcEeONFI/AAAAAAAAAqg/24GoBBrPcQk/s1600-h/CIMG0068.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://bp1.blogger.com/__-ZefN7r4GU/R0nIcEeONFI/AAAAAAAAAqg/24GoBBrPcQk/s200/CIMG0068.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5136857234555155538" border="0" /></a><br />They are upside down because I had read somewhere that putting spices upside down doesn't allow air to get in and therefore not allowing smells to escape (I don't know if it is true, but I was willing to do anything at this point). That seemed to help, but the cabinet has seemed to absorb all of the smells. How do I make a wood cabinet not smell? I know that baking soda is supposed to absorb smells, so I coated the cabinet with baking soda and let it sit.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://bp0.blogger.com/__-ZefN7r4GU/R0nIs0eONGI/AAAAAAAAAqo/9ErcFweP47s/s1600-h/CIMG0066.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://bp0.blogger.com/__-ZefN7r4GU/R0nIs0eONGI/AAAAAAAAAqo/9ErcFweP47s/s200/CIMG0066.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5136857522317964386" border="0" /></a><br />I then sprayed it with vinegar and let the exploding action do its work. After cleaning up the baking soda and putting everything back into the cabinet... it didn't really smell anymore (well, just a little)! My husband even said when he came home "It smells better in here." YAY!<br /><br />So, am I the only one who has had this happen? Please tell me no.Meredith A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02380232595791603308noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1612562318104946103.post-78234862514434284952007-11-21T05:45:00.001-08:002007-11-21T05:47:21.262-08:00Scotchguard?Anyone know any environmentally friendly alternatives to Scotchguard?Meredith A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02380232595791603308noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1612562318104946103.post-51521549684788301062007-11-19T07:20:00.000-08:002007-11-19T08:14:59.113-08:00Menu Plan Monday - Week of Nov 18, 2007<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://orgjunkie.com/"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://bp2.blogger.com/__-ZefN7r4GU/R0GrHUeONEI/AAAAAAAAAqY/_4D6YfIm7UE/s200/menuplanmonday.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5134573192421979202" border="0" /></a><br /><br />This week is Thanksgiving! I am a bit nervous because I am hosting my husbands family at our house! I have never put on a meal quite this big, but I am lucky that my mother-in-law is helping quite a bit. In fact, my mother-in-law offered to make the turkey and gravy!<br /><br />They don't usually shop organic or think twice about where their food came from, so my husband hinted that if she was going to do the turkey, it needed to be free-range and organic. I was SO very happy he did that! We don't eat much meat around here, but if we do, or if it is in our house, we want it to be properly raised without antibiotics and hormones.<span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><br />Needless to say, this week is going to be a bit hectic (and expensive at the grocery store!). That is why most of the meals earlier this week are pretty simple. </span><br /> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Monday:</b><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> Grilled Cheese and Curried Sweet Potato Soup</span><i style=""><o:p></o:p></i><br /><b style="">Tuesday:</b> <a href="http://www.recipezaar.com/69106">Chickpea, Spinach, Carrot and Quinoa Mélange</a><br /><b style="">Wednesday: </b>Tomato Pasta<br /><b style="">Thursday:</b> THANKSGIVING!<br /><b style="">Friday: </b>Date night!<br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><b style="">Weekend/Other:</b> Leftovers</span> <b style=""><o:p></o:p></b></span></p> So, you are probably wondering what our Thanksgiving menu looks like. All of the recipes I am linking to, I will most likely change up a bit. Here it is:<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(204, 102, 0);">Thanksgiving 2007</span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 51, 0);">APPETIZERS</span><span style=""></span></span><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style=""></span></span><a href="http://www.recipezaar.com/48627"><span style="font-style: italic;">Stuffed Mushrooms</span></a><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:100%;" ><br />Cream Cheese w/ Chipotle Raspberry Sauce and Whole Wheat Crackers</span></div> <div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><o:p><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 51, 0);">MAIN </span></o:p></span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Beer Infused </span><st1:country-region st="on"><st1:place st="on"><span style="font-style: italic;">Turkey </span><span style="font-size:78%;">- MIL making</span></st1:place></st1:country-region><span style="color: rgb(102, 51, 0);"><br /><br />SIDES</span><br /><a href="http://www.recipezaar.com/68159"><span style="font-style: italic;">Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes</span></a><span style="font-style: italic;"><br />Apple and Sage Stuffing </span><span style="font-size:78%;">- I am going to combine a bunch of recipes</span><span style="font-style: italic;"><br />Green Beans w/ Toasted Almonds</span><st1:place style="font-style: italic;" st="on"><br />West Texas</st1:place><span style="font-style: italic;"> Creamed Corn</span><span style="font-style: italic;"><br />Mixed Green Salad w/ Balsamic Vinaigrette</span><br /><a href="http://www.recipezaar.com/49813"><span style="font-style: italic;">Roasted Butternut Squash</span></a></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> </div> <p style="text-align: center;" class="MsoNormal"> </p> <div> </div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: rgb(102, 51, 0);">EXTRAS</span><span style="font-style: italic;"><br /><a href="http://www.recipezaar.com/78017">Orange and Ginger Cranberry Sauce</a></span><span style="font-style: italic;"></span><span style="font-style: italic;"><br />Spiced Whipped Cream - </span><span style="font-size:78%;">I will whip the cream w/ vanilla and cinnamon</span><span style="font-style: italic;"><br />Gravy - </span><span style="font-size:78%;">MIL making</span><o:p style="color: rgb(102, 51, 0);"><br /><br />BREAD</o:p><span style="font-style: italic;"><br />White Rolls - </span><span style="font-size:78%;">MIL making</span><span style="font-style: italic;"><br />Whole Wheat Rolls - </span><span style="font-size:78%;">Following <a href="http://www.latartinegourmande.com/2006/10/17/cranberry-walnut-bread-rolls-petits-pains-aux-noix-et-cranneberges/">this recipe</a> w/o cranberries and walnuts</span><span style="color: rgb(102, 51, 0);"><br /><br />DESSERT</span><span style="font-style: italic;"><br /><a href="http://www.recipezaar.com/207112">Pumpkin Bread</a> </span>- I use more wheat flour than white,<span style="font-size:78%;"><br />double the pumpkin, use real egg, and add some applesauce and nutmeg</span><span style="font-style: italic;"><br />Pumpkin Pie </span><span style="font-size:78%;">- MIL making</span><span style="font-style: italic;"><br />Cheesecake w/ Strawberry Reduction Sauce </span><span style="font-size:78%;">- sister-in-law making</span><span style="color: rgb(102, 51, 0);"><br /><br />BEVERAGES</span><span style="font-style: italic;"><br />Wine</span><span style="font-style: italic;"><br />Sweet Tea</span><span style="font-style: italic;"><br />Coffee/Tea<br /><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> </div> Whew! I hope it all goes as planned - I will let you all know!<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;"></span> <div style="text-align: center;"> </div>Meredith A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02380232595791603308noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1612562318104946103.post-45139725148419630202007-11-16T12:04:00.000-08:002007-11-17T13:40:30.152-08:00Frugal Fridays: "No paper towels!?"We don't use paper towels... GASP! I know. My mother-in-law almost choked on her water when she asked where the paper towels were to clean up a mess off the floor in the kitchen and my answer was "We don't use paper towels, we have regular towels in that cabinet".<br /><br />My husband and I have been using regular towels for instead of paper towels for about a year. Not only is it WAY cheaper, but it is such a waste to use something for 0.3 seconds and then throw it away. I know my parents go through like a roll a day... that is so many trees! Sure you can buy the <a href="http://www.seventhgeneration.com/our_products/paper/white_paper_towels.html">recycled Seventh Generation stuff</a>, but to me it is so not worth it when you can reuse something over and over.<br /><br />So, here is our system. We have towels (microfiber towels are great... they are great for dusting and scrubbing) in a basket in a cabinet next to the sink.<br /><br /><br /><div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://bp1.blogger.com/__-ZefN7r4GU/Rz33yEeONBI/AAAAAAAAAp8/m1ohS1Z-9f8/s1600-h/CIMG0061.JPG"><img src="http://bp1.blogger.com/__-ZefN7r4GU/Rz33yEeONBI/AAAAAAAAAp8/m1ohS1Z-9f8/s320/CIMG0061.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_" border="0" /></a> </div><br /><br /><br />Then under the sink, I have a small "laundry" basket, and I just throw them in there when they are dirty. Simple.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://bp1.blogger.com/__-ZefN7r4GU/Rz9fokeONDI/AAAAAAAAAqM/vb7BIeV7x6Q/s1600-h/CIMG0064.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://bp1.blogger.com/__-ZefN7r4GU/Rz9fokeONDI/AAAAAAAAAqM/vb7BIeV7x6Q/s200/CIMG0064.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5133927250815497266" border="0" /></a><br /><br />I wash the towels every couple of days, or when the basket is full. This has saved us quite a bit of money and quite a few trees!<br /><br />Visit <a href="http://www.biblicalwomanhoodonline.com/blog.htm">Biblical Womanhood</a> for more great frugal ideas!<br /><br /><div style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://picasa.google.com/blogger/" target="ext"><img src="http://photos1.blogger.com/pbp.gif" alt="Posted by Picasa" style="border: 0px none ; padding: 0px; background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 50%; -moz-background-clip: -moz-initial; -moz-background-origin: -moz-initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: -moz-initial;" align="middle" border="0" /></a></div>Meredith A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02380232595791603308noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1612562318104946103.post-65358939435245305102007-11-14T18:10:00.000-08:002007-11-14T18:54:05.993-08:00Getting things doneLately I have been feeling like I am really unproductive and don't use my time wisely. A few weeks ago, I started a weekly cleaning schedule, and it has GREATLY helped me get things done and not feel so overwhelmed. However, I still waste very precious time on not very productive things (*cough* too much time on the internet *cough*). Today, I decided to kick my butt in gear and be thankful for the time I have - that I don't have to work a full time job, and that we don't have kids yet so I can use my time to help others.<br /><br />So, today I would like to share my list of accomplished things!<br /><ul><li>Made bed<br /></li><li>Sweeped all hard floors</li><li>Vacuumed corners and baseboards<br /></li><li>Deodorized (sprinkled baking soda and let it sit) and vacuumed carpet</li><li>Mopped all hard floors</li><li>Soaked shower head in vinegar to remove all the nasty stuff that has been building up<br /></li><li>Caught up on e-mails/phone calls for work</li><li>Updated household calendar<br /></li><li>Picked up clutter in office and bedroom<br /></li><li>Organized all recipes in recipe binder: put recipes in page protectors</li><li>Cleaned out and reorganized home management binder<br /></li><li>Dusted all hard surfaces</li><li>Wiped down mirrors</li><li>Wiped bathroom and kitchen counters</li><li>Made dinner for a good friend of mine that is a new mama: Baked bread, made lentil soup, baked chocolate chip cookies, made label tags and tied them on with ribbon to each item<br /></li><li>Made dinner for my husband and I: Eggplant Parmesan - served and cleaned up<br /></li><li>Had to sweep kitchen again<br /></li><li>Went to Goodwill and purchased: basket to put dinner for new mama in, new cloth napkins for our everyday use (7 new napkins for 2.75!), and 2 new Fall tea towels (.79 cents!)</li><li>Dropped off food to new mama and held her beautiful new baby boy for a little bit<br /></li><li>Did dishes</li><li>1 load of laundry</li><li>Looked over our budget with my husband</li><li>Read a few new blogs and got some cool ideas for all kinds of stuff</li><li>Looked up Christmas gift ideas<br /></li><li>And wrote this blog post!</li><li>And it is still only 8:30pm</li></ul> Okay, so I am sure there are those of you out there that are thinking that this is nothing, but I feel great about it... so, don't burst my bubble!<br /><br />Thanks for letting me get that out! Now for some quality time with my dear sweet husband!<br /><br/><br/>Meredith A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02380232595791603308noreply@blogger.com1