I think I mentioned a few posts back about the toilet leaking in the kids' bathroom. This bathroom is finally being remodeled.
We had a rough start. The contractor wouldn't start unless we had the tub. So, off we went to order the tub. Yes. Order. It happens to be a special order tub because of it's size (of course).
We got the tub over the weekend and the contractor started on Monday. All was going well, until he noticed that the tub required a special part for the overflow (of course). Off I went to the store only to find out that it will take them 3-5 business days to get the part to me, but! I could order it on Amazon and get it here in two days time. This just slows down the whole bathroom remodel process time.
In the meantime, I have three children who are bathroom wanderers. They have to shower in our bathroom. So far only one child has showered in our bathroom (Nick). I think the other two are holding out until their bathroom is completed (which might not be for another week or two).
I'm hoping they decide to shower soon. Especially the one that has been playing basketball everyday this week.
Friday, March 31, 2017
Thursday, March 30, 2017
Spring Break Craft: Wrapped Bangle Bracelet
We are remodeling the bathroom and decided to have a little stay-cation this year for Spring Break. Since I will be home all week hanging out, I decided to pick up some things so Bella and I can fill up some of the time to make crafts. We have a lot of these things on hand, so, I didn't spend much money.
Today's craft is a wrapped bangle bracelet.
Supplies needed:
Bangle bracelet(s)
embroidery thread
e6000 glue (or a good craft glue)
charms (optional)
scissors
patience
Choose your embroidery thread, grab a bangle bracelet and add a dab of glue and place the end of your thread on the glue and start wrapping. I chose to do a tight wrap (all close together) in a single color. At the halfway point, I added a dab of glue to the bracelet (just incase the embroidery thread decided to unwind) and kept going. When I got to where I started, well, I decided to go around one more time. If you choose to stop, just add a dab of glue so your last wraps will stick to the bracelet. Use the scissors to cut off the excess thread.
At this point, you can add your charms to the bracelet.
Today's craft is a wrapped bangle bracelet.
Supplies needed:
Bangle bracelet(s)
embroidery thread
e6000 glue (or a good craft glue)
charms (optional)
scissors
patience
Choose your embroidery thread, grab a bangle bracelet and add a dab of glue and place the end of your thread on the glue and start wrapping. I chose to do a tight wrap (all close together) in a single color. At the halfway point, I added a dab of glue to the bracelet (just incase the embroidery thread decided to unwind) and kept going. When I got to where I started, well, I decided to go around one more time. If you choose to stop, just add a dab of glue so your last wraps will stick to the bracelet. Use the scissors to cut off the excess thread.
At this point, you can add your charms to the bracelet.
Bella was getting all stressed out while we were doing this craft. I think I wrapped half of her bracelet for her. I was calling her the "crabby crafter" because she kept complaining while we were making these bracelets. She promises to be in better spirits for the other crafts. Wish me luck...I think I'm going to need it.
Wednesday, March 29, 2017
How you doing?
I came down with a cold a few weeks ago and can't seem to shake this cough. I think it's on week three. I feel fine....except for the cough, which can be quite annoying.
For the past few nights, I have been sleeping on the couch. I don't think RT notices when I leave or return (he's usually asleep).
One night, while sleeping on the couch, I heard someone walking around upstairs. Then footsteps on the stairs. I realized it was Pippen. He came over and put his nose in my face. I decided to go upstairs to bed. That morning, I asked RT if Pippen was sleeping in our room (our bedroom door was open when I went back upstairs to bed, and Pippen knows how to open doors). RT didn't know the dog was in the room. He also didn't know that I left and came back. That's probably a good thing. He doesn't normally sleep that well.
Last night, when I returned to bed, I just wanted to climb in and go right to sleep. I was hoping RT wouldn't say anything. I thought if I start talking, I would start coughing and would have to go back downstairs on the couch. As if he is listening to what goes through my head, RT then says, "How are you doing?" I gave a thumbs up and then realized it was dark and he couldn't see it. He asked again. "How are you doing?" I finally said, "I don't want to talk or I'll start coughing."
We are definitely nailing the old fashioned pillow talks.
For the past few nights, I have been sleeping on the couch. I don't think RT notices when I leave or return (he's usually asleep).
One night, while sleeping on the couch, I heard someone walking around upstairs. Then footsteps on the stairs. I realized it was Pippen. He came over and put his nose in my face. I decided to go upstairs to bed. That morning, I asked RT if Pippen was sleeping in our room (our bedroom door was open when I went back upstairs to bed, and Pippen knows how to open doors). RT didn't know the dog was in the room. He also didn't know that I left and came back. That's probably a good thing. He doesn't normally sleep that well.
Last night, when I returned to bed, I just wanted to climb in and go right to sleep. I was hoping RT wouldn't say anything. I thought if I start talking, I would start coughing and would have to go back downstairs on the couch. As if he is listening to what goes through my head, RT then says, "How are you doing?" I gave a thumbs up and then realized it was dark and he couldn't see it. He asked again. "How are you doing?" I finally said, "I don't want to talk or I'll start coughing."
We are definitely nailing the old fashioned pillow talks.
Monday, March 27, 2017
Knife Sharpener
It started with a set of knives we got for our wedding. RT said we should sharpen them before/after every use to keep them nice. The sharpener was a metal pole. There's a special way you are supposed to position the knife when scraping the pole. If you do it wrong, you can dull the knife. I'm not a big fan of metal scraping metal. It's that one sound where I cringe.
You see, I came from a family that was not educated on which knife you are to use for each task. Apparently, there are steak knives that are used to cut steak. We used those to cut, oh, just about everything you can imagine. My family wrote the book, "101 Uses of the Steak Knife."
Cutting a watermelon? Here, use the steak knife.
Cutting a cucumber? Use the steak knife.
How about chopping an onion? Try the steak knife.
Trying to open a package? Why not try the steak knife?
(excerpt from, "101 Uses of the Steak Knife)
My Dad used a pocket knife for everything. (check out his book, "101 Uses for a Pocket Knife") Probably because he had a pocket knife in his pocket all of the time and could easily whip it out, cut something, wipe it off, fold it up and put it back into his pocket again.
I don't think my family used any other knives. So, with a whole set of knives, I was a little overwhelmed. I did know to use the bread knife (for bread). It took me awhile, but, I've learned the uses of all of the knives. I left knife sharpening to RT (and had to run out of the room every time he did it, which wasn't too often).
Since Nick has been cooking, he has been complaining about the knives not being sharpened. I told him it would be great if he could do it for me (a present for my birthday, Mother's Day or Christmas).
For my birthday, he presented me with my very own knife sharpener. I think he was tired of having to sharpen the knives every time he went to cut something. It's a nice gadget. The sharpening sound is actually bearable. Nick told me that I can now sharpen my own knives.
I did tell him how I like when he sharpened them for me.
I think he really wants me to sharpen the knives on my own.
You see, I came from a family that was not educated on which knife you are to use for each task. Apparently, there are steak knives that are used to cut steak. We used those to cut, oh, just about everything you can imagine. My family wrote the book, "101 Uses of the Steak Knife."
Cutting a watermelon? Here, use the steak knife.
Cutting a cucumber? Use the steak knife.
How about chopping an onion? Try the steak knife.
Trying to open a package? Why not try the steak knife?
(excerpt from, "101 Uses of the Steak Knife)
My Dad used a pocket knife for everything. (check out his book, "101 Uses for a Pocket Knife") Probably because he had a pocket knife in his pocket all of the time and could easily whip it out, cut something, wipe it off, fold it up and put it back into his pocket again.
I don't think my family used any other knives. So, with a whole set of knives, I was a little overwhelmed. I did know to use the bread knife (for bread). It took me awhile, but, I've learned the uses of all of the knives. I left knife sharpening to RT (and had to run out of the room every time he did it, which wasn't too often).
Since Nick has been cooking, he has been complaining about the knives not being sharpened. I told him it would be great if he could do it for me (a present for my birthday, Mother's Day or Christmas).
For my birthday, he presented me with my very own knife sharpener. I think he was tired of having to sharpen the knives every time he went to cut something. It's a nice gadget. The sharpening sound is actually bearable. Nick told me that I can now sharpen my own knives.
I did tell him how I like when he sharpened them for me.
I think he really wants me to sharpen the knives on my own.
Friday, March 24, 2017
Vegetarian Diaries - Fakes (Greek Lentil Soup)
I have been craving this soup ever since I became sick a few weeks ago. My mom used to make this soup a lot when I was younger. And, because I'm a vinegar freak, I absolutely love adding the red wine vinegar right before eating this soup.
My mom's recipe did not have the addition of carrots, but, I like having an extra vegetable in there. Adds a little color (along with flavor).
It's hard cooking for yourself when you're sick. You don't have the energy, but, you have a taste for a nice hot bowl of soup. It's also difficult being the only vegetarian. The other chefs in the house like to add meat to their dishes.
The great thing about making your own soup, you can control what goes into your soup. I don't like a lot of salt (too much for me in canned soups) so, I don't add it when I'm cooking.
This soup came out quite nicely. I can't wait to make it again.
Here's the recipe:
1 cup brown lentils
1/4 cup olive oil
1 clove garlic, minced
1 onion, finely chopped
1 carrot, finely chopped
a pinch of oregano
a pinch of rosemary
2 bay leaves
1 Tbsp tomato paste
salt/pepper to taste
1 tsp red wine vinegar, or to taste
Put lentils in saucepan with water to cover and heat to boil. Cook until tender and drain.
Heat olive oil in saucepan. Add garlic, onion and carrot. Cook until onion has softened. Pour lentils, 4 cups water, oregano, rosemary, bay leaves and tomato paste. Bring to boil. Reduce heat and cook for 30-40 minutes. Add water if soup is too thick.
Ladle into bowl and add vinegar (to taste).
If you try making the soup, let me know what you think!
My mom's recipe did not have the addition of carrots, but, I like having an extra vegetable in there. Adds a little color (along with flavor).
It's hard cooking for yourself when you're sick. You don't have the energy, but, you have a taste for a nice hot bowl of soup. It's also difficult being the only vegetarian. The other chefs in the house like to add meat to their dishes.
The great thing about making your own soup, you can control what goes into your soup. I don't like a lot of salt (too much for me in canned soups) so, I don't add it when I'm cooking.
This soup came out quite nicely. I can't wait to make it again.
Here's the recipe:
Fakes (Greek Lentil Soup)
1 cup brown lentils
1/4 cup olive oil
1 clove garlic, minced
1 onion, finely chopped
1 carrot, finely chopped
a pinch of oregano
a pinch of rosemary
2 bay leaves
1 Tbsp tomato paste
salt/pepper to taste
1 tsp red wine vinegar, or to taste
Put lentils in saucepan with water to cover and heat to boil. Cook until tender and drain.
Heat olive oil in saucepan. Add garlic, onion and carrot. Cook until onion has softened. Pour lentils, 4 cups water, oregano, rosemary, bay leaves and tomato paste. Bring to boil. Reduce heat and cook for 30-40 minutes. Add water if soup is too thick.
Ladle into bowl and add vinegar (to taste).
If you try making the soup, let me know what you think!
Enjoy!
Wednesday, March 22, 2017
Elevator
Went for a quick road trip up to Milwaukee. We stayed at this old time, elegant hotel. RT got our room number and off we went to the elevator. We hop on and he says we are on the second floor. The elevator opens at the second floor and its the parking garage. We decided to stay on the elevator because now RT thinks it might be the 10th or 12th floor. He tries pressing those numbers and they won't light up. Somehow we end up at the top floor (23). So, we start to go down the elevator. I see someone put their card in and press the floor number. RT tries that and it still doesn't work. A bunch of people get on and we tell them we have been riding the elevator up and down for awhile and that they might see us later on (on this same elevator with our bags). They laughed. Another guy got on and asked RT if he's from here. RT said, "You mean, this elevator?" Bella and I laughed. The guy tried to explain himself and I said, "We have been on this elevator for a good 20 minutes now and might be making it our permanent home." I think they thought we were crazy.
We finally got off the elevator after the second trip up and down to the top floor. RT went to ask where our room was located and, apparently, we got on the wrong elevator. We were a little leery about getting on another elevator, but, luckily, it was the correct elevator and correct floor and we successfully found our room.
When we finally settled in, we were trying to decide what to do the rest of the night, and, for some reason, no one liked my idea of riding the elevator up and down all night.
We finally got off the elevator after the second trip up and down to the top floor. RT went to ask where our room was located and, apparently, we got on the wrong elevator. We were a little leery about getting on another elevator, but, luckily, it was the correct elevator and correct floor and we successfully found our room.
When we finally settled in, we were trying to decide what to do the rest of the night, and, for some reason, no one liked my idea of riding the elevator up and down all night.
Monday, March 20, 2017
Daddy Daughter Dance - Under the Sea 2017
It's finally here!
The Girl Scouts Annual Daddy Daughter Dance! And, guess what? It was our troop's turn to host! Yes! It's been six years since RT and Bella went to their first Daddy Daughter Dance when she was in Kindergarten.
Our troop chose the theme, "Under the Sea." We made all of the decorations and set everything up in the gym. With my decorating vision, we did require RT and Alex to help out with the implementation of my grand plans. I owe them big time. Once they heard my idea, theywere ready to quit went ahead, made a plan and got to work.
This was a huge undertaking and consumed a lot of my time (day and night). I would wake up at 3am and start thinking about this dance. Scary, I know!
Now I'm going to bore you with some pictures.
Putting on a huge dance is a lot of work and a lot of fun. I'm glad it's over, but, I'm also sad that it's over.
Now what will I think about at 3am?
The Girl Scouts Annual Daddy Daughter Dance! And, guess what? It was our troop's turn to host! Yes! It's been six years since RT and Bella went to their first Daddy Daughter Dance when she was in Kindergarten.
look how little she looks!
Our troop chose the theme, "Under the Sea." We made all of the decorations and set everything up in the gym. With my decorating vision, we did require RT and Alex to help out with the implementation of my grand plans. I owe them big time. Once they heard my idea, they
This was a huge undertaking and consumed a lot of my time (day and night). I would wake up at 3am and start thinking about this dance. Scary, I know!
Now I'm going to bore you with some pictures.
when you walk in...you had to go through rows of crepe paper
you had to be careful around the jelly fish
near the door
between gym and multi purpose room
Mermaid Munchies table
some random jelly fish near a batch of seaweed
2017 picture
Putting on a huge dance is a lot of work and a lot of fun. I'm glad it's over, but, I'm also sad that it's over.
Now what will I think about at 3am?
Sunday, March 19, 2017
Chocolate Cupcake Recipe
I needed a recipe for Chocolate Cupcakes for Alex's birthday and came across this recipe.
I find that cake and cupcakes taste better when you make them from scratch. I can't do the box mixes. And purchasing them from the store is out of the question (too much sugar!). I know...cake, cupcakes, cookies...not the healthiest of food choices, but, at least I know what I'm putting into my sweet treats.
Anyway, here's the recipe:
Chocolate Cupcake Recipe
Ingredients:
1 1/2 cups of flour
1 cup sugar
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
1/3 cup cocoa powder
1/2 cup oil
1 cup milk
1 tsp vanilla
1 Tbsp vinegar
Directions:
Mix all of the ingredients together in a bowl. Blend well.
Put in cupcake holders and bake 20-25 minutes at 350F.
Frost cupcakes and serve.
To make a layer cake, double the recipe and place in two round pans. Bake 35 minutes or until toothpick in center of cake, comes out clean.
Chocolate Frosting:
3oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1/3 cup baking cocoa
salt
3 Tbsp milk
1/2 tsp vanilla
Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar, cocoa, salt, milk and vanilla and mix well.
Store extra in the refrigerator.
Let me know if you try making them. I would love to hear what you think of this recipe!
I find that cake and cupcakes taste better when you make them from scratch. I can't do the box mixes. And purchasing them from the store is out of the question (too much sugar!). I know...cake, cupcakes, cookies...not the healthiest of food choices, but, at least I know what I'm putting into my sweet treats.
Anyway, here's the recipe:
Chocolate Cupcake Recipe
Ingredients:
1 1/2 cups of flour
1 cup sugar
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
1/3 cup cocoa powder
1/2 cup oil
1 cup milk
1 tsp vanilla
1 Tbsp vinegar
Directions:
Mix all of the ingredients together in a bowl. Blend well.
Put in cupcake holders and bake 20-25 minutes at 350F.
Frost cupcakes and serve.
To make a layer cake, double the recipe and place in two round pans. Bake 35 minutes or until toothpick in center of cake, comes out clean.
Chocolate Frosting:
3oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1/3 cup baking cocoa
salt
3 Tbsp milk
1/2 tsp vanilla
Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar, cocoa, salt, milk and vanilla and mix well.
Store extra in the refrigerator.
Let me know if you try making them. I would love to hear what you think of this recipe!
Enjoy!
Wednesday, March 15, 2017
Beware the Ides of March
I'm sure you have heard that saying, "Beware the Ides of March." For those of you who don't know, the Ides of March refers to the date of March 15. It is also known for being the date of Julius Caesar's assassination. This line became famous in William Shakespeare's play, Julius Caesar, when a fortune teller warns Caesar by saying this line.
Every year, on March 15, I say this line. Of course, since I've been with RT, I say it to him. And, every year, he says, "What does that mean?" Yes, I go into the explanation just for him. I think he secretly wishes I would forget the line and never say it again (what fun would that be??)
I think RT needs someone to warn him that I will say the line. I'm sure he would probably go out of his way to avoid me for an entire day just so he doesn't have to hearthe death warning it.
Every year, on March 15, I say this line. Of course, since I've been with RT, I say it to him. And, every year, he says, "What does that mean?" Yes, I go into the explanation just for him. I think he secretly wishes I would forget the line and never say it again (what fun would that be??)
I think RT needs someone to warn him that I will say the line. I'm sure he would probably go out of his way to avoid me for an entire day just so he doesn't have to hear
Tuesday, March 14, 2017
Hearing
As I mentioned, both RT and I have been sick. RT's hearing has been going awhile (or, at least he says it is) and apparently, I speak softly and carry a big stick.
While I was sick, it was hard to talk because my throat hurt, so, I talked a little softer. Combine that with RT's hearing and how his cold was affecting him, and he couldn't hear a word I said. He kept saying, "What?" or " I can't hear you!"
I'm sure watching us interact was like watching a comedy. I finally said, "I'm not talking to you. I'll let you know whenand if I start up again."
I have to say, it's been nice and peaceful around here.
While I was sick, it was hard to talk because my throat hurt, so, I talked a little softer. Combine that with RT's hearing and how his cold was affecting him, and he couldn't hear a word I said. He kept saying, "What?" or " I can't hear you!"
I'm sure watching us interact was like watching a comedy. I finally said, "I'm not talking to you. I'll let you know when
I have to say, it's been nice and peaceful around here.
Sunday, March 12, 2017
Saturday, March 11, 2017
Sick
It all started on my birthday. RT started coughing and complaining that he was coming down with a cold. I made him stay in bed all day Sunday. He was still sick on Monday (his birthday) and he stayed home from work. Tuesday, I woke up not feeling very energetic. I barely made it through my work shift that night (everyone is sick, so it's hard to find some one to work for you). I took it easy Wednesday (with the exception of the up and down the stairs trying to figure out the water problem) and Thursday, went to the doctor (I have to be on my deathbed to go visit the doctor, so, you know it's serious). I also was planning the Daddy Daughter Dance with our Girl Scout Troop and had to be there on Friday to set up, decorate and host (Thanks a lot, RT!)
The doctor said it was a virus and wanted to prescribe a bunch of stuff that didn't match any of my symptoms. He also told me that I would feel about the same the next day taking the stuff he prescribed. (so no miracle pills)
Let's just hope I can sleep most of this off and make it through the dance.
I owe you one, RT.
The doctor said it was a virus and wanted to prescribe a bunch of stuff that didn't match any of my symptoms. He also told me that I would feel about the same the next day taking the stuff he prescribed. (so no miracle pills)
Let's just hope I can sleep most of this off and make it through the dance.
I owe you one, RT.
Friday, March 10, 2017
Water Bill
It all started when I asked Nick to turn the water off when he was in the kitchen washing dishes (his dishes only, by the way). He has a tendency to let the water run for long periods of time. He proceeded to tell me that he doesn't use that much water.
This from the man who invented the 30 minute shower (what I like to refer to as, "the four hour shower.")
We just happened to get our water bill that day, so I opened it to show him and realized that it was three times the normal amount!!'
Yes. You read that right. Three times the normal amount.
That's where RT and I launched into the long shower (4 hour shower) conversation. Nick said they are 10 minutes. Still too long in my book. I mean, get in, clean up and get out! Am I right? I think I learned that when our water heater was dying. I mastered the art of a three minute shower. < you have to go in with a plan.
Any way, getting back to our water bill problem...
I decided to call the Village and talk to them.
You see, about 20 years ago (yea, we've lived here for 20 years...scary, right?) we had a similar situation. Our first water bill was $150 (RT, Nick (who was 7 months old) and I were living here at the time. RT and I were working full time and didn't water our lawn (that's what they told us was the problem). The next bill was $400! That's us and no lawn watering. Turns out our water meter was old and they replaced it.
So, this time, I thought maybe it was the water meter, even though they just installed a new one a few months ago. (we've been here that long to see a third water meter...) They said to check to see if there is a leaking toilet. After a quick check, we found the leaking toilet. The one that is in the bathroom that is getting remodeled in a couple of weeks.
Nick was right by my side calculating how much it would cost to run that toilet per day (don't you just love kids showing off their math skills?). The water to the toilet is now shut off until we fix or install a new one. In the meantime, the kids have to use another bathroom.
Hopefully we will see an adjustment in our next water bill.
This from the man who invented the 30 minute shower (what I like to refer to as, "the four hour shower.")
We just happened to get our water bill that day, so I opened it to show him and realized that it was three times the normal amount!!'
Yes. You read that right. Three times the normal amount.
That's where RT and I launched into the long shower (4 hour shower) conversation. Nick said they are 10 minutes. Still too long in my book. I mean, get in, clean up and get out! Am I right? I think I learned that when our water heater was dying. I mastered the art of a three minute shower. < you have to go in with a plan.
Any way, getting back to our water bill problem...
I decided to call the Village and talk to them.
You see, about 20 years ago (yea, we've lived here for 20 years...scary, right?) we had a similar situation. Our first water bill was $150 (RT, Nick (who was 7 months old) and I were living here at the time. RT and I were working full time and didn't water our lawn (that's what they told us was the problem). The next bill was $400! That's us and no lawn watering. Turns out our water meter was old and they replaced it.
So, this time, I thought maybe it was the water meter, even though they just installed a new one a few months ago. (we've been here that long to see a third water meter...) They said to check to see if there is a leaking toilet. After a quick check, we found the leaking toilet. The one that is in the bathroom that is getting remodeled in a couple of weeks.
Nick was right by my side calculating how much it would cost to run that toilet per day (don't you just love kids showing off their math skills?). The water to the toilet is now shut off until we fix or install a new one. In the meantime, the kids have to use another bathroom.
Hopefully we will see an adjustment in our next water bill.
Thursday, March 9, 2017
Time Management
I don't think my children have grasped the concept of time management. It's not like I haven't talked about it while they were growing up.
We walk down to the bus at 7:44am to catch the bus that arrives at 7:50am.
If practice starts at 4:30, then we should be ready and in the car by 4:00.
We have done this (almost) everyday (different things and times) you would think they would understand to allow travel time to our destination.
Alex had to be at school at 5:30pm for a test and Bella had to be at dance at 6:00pm. Of course, both of these locations are in opposite directions of our house. At 5:00pm, I told Alex, "Let's go!" He said, OK. I grabbed my purse and bag (with my Handy Dandy Blog Notebook) and hopped into the car. He came downstairs and I assumed was putting his shoes on. Turns out he decided he was going to the bathroom. It takes about 10-15 minutes to get to his school (depending on traffic). This was a high traffic time since we have to drive by the train station. When he finally got into the car, I had 15 minutes to make it to his school (I made it in 11 minutes an didn't speed).
It doesn't matter how many times I tell them to allow driving time, they move at the same pace (or slower than) a snail. I really think my kids believe my car will magically transport them from our house to their desired destination in a minute.
Not sure how I can change that, except to continue my motivational talks (did someone say, YELL?) and my (daily) test on my car's horn.
We walk down to the bus at 7:44am to catch the bus that arrives at 7:50am.
If practice starts at 4:30, then we should be ready and in the car by 4:00.
We have done this (almost) everyday (different things and times) you would think they would understand to allow travel time to our destination.
Alex had to be at school at 5:30pm for a test and Bella had to be at dance at 6:00pm. Of course, both of these locations are in opposite directions of our house. At 5:00pm, I told Alex, "Let's go!" He said, OK. I grabbed my purse and bag (with my Handy Dandy Blog Notebook) and hopped into the car. He came downstairs and I assumed was putting his shoes on. Turns out he decided he was going to the bathroom. It takes about 10-15 minutes to get to his school (depending on traffic). This was a high traffic time since we have to drive by the train station. When he finally got into the car, I had 15 minutes to make it to his school (I made it in 11 minutes an didn't speed).
It doesn't matter how many times I tell them to allow driving time, they move at the same pace (or slower than) a snail. I really think my kids believe my car will magically transport them from our house to their desired destination in a minute.
Not sure how I can change that, except to continue my motivational talks (did someone say, YELL?) and my (daily) test on my car's horn.
Friday, March 3, 2017
Vegetarian Diaries - Roasted Cauliflower
I bought a head of cauliflower thinking RT was going to use it when he made a salad. The salad never materialized and I thought I better use the cauliflower before it went bad.
Normally I will steam it or make cauliflower soup. This time, I wanted to do something different and thought it would be fun to try roasting it in the oven. I found some recipes online and got to work.
When all was done, I wasn't expecting the cauliflower to be so delicious. I think I ate half of the cauliflower (RT ate the other half)! I think I just found a new way to eat cauliflower.
Here's the recipe:
Roasted Cauliflower
1 head of cauliflower, cut into florets
2 or 3 garlic cloves, cleaned and minced
1/2 a lemon, juiced
olive oil
salt and pepper to taste
Oven to 400F. Place florets onto baking dish. Toss in garlic cloves and mix. Add in lemon juice and brush olive oil onto florets. Add salt and pepper. Roast in oven, uncovered for 25-30 minutes until tender.
*I opted for lemon pepper instead of the lemon juice and skipped the salt
Normally I will steam it or make cauliflower soup. This time, I wanted to do something different and thought it would be fun to try roasting it in the oven. I found some recipes online and got to work.
When all was done, I wasn't expecting the cauliflower to be so delicious. I think I ate half of the cauliflower (RT ate the other half)! I think I just found a new way to eat cauliflower.
Here's the recipe:
Roasted Cauliflower
1 head of cauliflower, cut into florets
2 or 3 garlic cloves, cleaned and minced
1/2 a lemon, juiced
olive oil
salt and pepper to taste
Oven to 400F. Place florets onto baking dish. Toss in garlic cloves and mix. Add in lemon juice and brush olive oil onto florets. Add salt and pepper. Roast in oven, uncovered for 25-30 minutes until tender.
*I opted for lemon pepper instead of the lemon juice and skipped the salt
Enjoy!
Thursday, March 2, 2017
Cheese
Growing up, we always had cheese in our refrigerator. It was a staple. A major part of our diet. My grandfather and Dad could make a meal out of bread and cheese. It would start out as a snack, but, the amount that was consumed was more like a meal.
RT fits well into our family. He could probably live off cheese. When we go on vacation, we always have to stop and pick up some cheese. For Christmas, I bought him an assortment of cheeses and crackers. I think that was his all time, favorite gift. My kids enjoy cheese. Not to the extent of RT. In fact, on vacations, they always say, "Is there anything else to snack on other than cheese?"
With all of his cheese consumption, RT forgets to add a little variety to his diet (fiber to the rescue), thus sometimes causing "problems."
Last fall, RT went hiking and took along some cheese that I bought him. Every day, he took a picture of his lunch and view. The cheese was in every picture.
With his birthday coming up, I was racking my brain trying to figure out the perfect gift for him when all of a sudden it came to me.....Cheese!
Maybe I'll throw in a few apples, too.
RT fits well into our family. He could probably live off cheese. When we go on vacation, we always have to stop and pick up some cheese. For Christmas, I bought him an assortment of cheeses and crackers. I think that was his all time, favorite gift. My kids enjoy cheese. Not to the extent of RT. In fact, on vacations, they always say, "Is there anything else to snack on other than cheese?"
With all of his cheese consumption, RT forgets to add a little variety to his diet (fiber to the rescue), thus sometimes causing "problems."
Last fall, RT went hiking and took along some cheese that I bought him. Every day, he took a picture of his lunch and view. The cheese was in every picture.
With his birthday coming up, I was racking my brain trying to figure out the perfect gift for him when all of a sudden it came to me.....Cheese!
Maybe I'll throw in a few apples, too.
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