tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37370898254959457532011-12-22T18:06:05.887-06:00Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.comBlogger1841100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-50122068934524618192011-12-04T21:10:00.002-06:002011-12-04T21:21:52.763-06:00

Ingredients:2 large eggs2 Tb grated parmigiano cheesesalt, pepper1 lb asparagus, chopped into long pieces10 oz spaghetti, regular or whole grain2 tsp olive oil3 cloves garlic minced4 oz nitrate free ham, cut in pieces1/4 cup soaked dried tomato halves, choppedBeat eggs, cheese and salt and pepper in large bowl while water for pasta is coming to boil. Cook asparagus in water 4 minutes, scoop out

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-3435553826664635602011-12-04T17:56:00.003-06:002011-12-04T21:08:55.383-06:00

When I plan out my week, I try to keep similar Points Plus values to my meals and snacks in order to make things easier. Breakfast tends to be 6-7, lunch a bit less, supper around 10 with a couple snacks or a beer in there as well. As the weeks go on, feel free to comment things so that I can tailor the menu a bit. Also pay attention to the suggestions at the bottom if you are dealing with "

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-34071360887810584182011-07-27T19:25:00.007-05:002011-07-27T20:00:14.880-05:00

Here it is, in all its 20,000 square foot wonder, complete with a few weedsSquash, cucumbers, peas and onionsThe root bedBeans, pole beans, potatoesTomatoes, peppers and sweet corn

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-77025637488761328662011-05-09T06:58:00.000-05:002011-05-10T07:06:40.375-05:00

Hello all, it has been busy with school, life, work for hubby and celebrating #2 First Holy Communion. Spring is finally here and the boys came over yesterday and dug up my garden spot with their gianormous tractors! I will post pictures soon of the 20,000 sq foot space so you can see the craziness I am talking about. In the mean time...BreakfastCranberry white chocolate muffinsEggs and

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-23433400795067259092011-04-20T12:12:00.005-05:002011-04-20T12:57:53.369-05:00

My hubby and I were watching TLC's Extreme Couponer the other night. I thought to myself, why am I not using coupons? Usually I don't even look at them in the Sunday paper as they are for things I don't normally buy. For some reason, my neighbor just doesn't run adds for $1 a gallon of the raw milk that I get from him...I decided to check the paper this week because I love a bargain! Who

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-84786855622937521192011-04-20T01:00:00.000-05:002011-04-20T13:03:49.116-05:00

Soboro over rice

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-41734187358111944732011-03-25T07:43:00.004-05:002011-03-25T08:02:48.646-05:00

Many prayers have been lifted up for the people of Japan. People all over are thinking of that devastated country and with the electronic capabilities now, keeping up on what is happening through twitter, web news, and blogs. While there are many ways to help, our rotary club is paying for four people who work a vocational job to go for four weeks, sometimes it is overwhelming to know where to

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-88069081283555744832011-03-22T07:22:00.002-05:002011-03-22T10:03:09.042-05:00

A little love for my husband today.I love his beautiful face. I love his strong character. I love how he encourages me to be whatever I want, and that makes me want to be his wife and the mother of his children all the more. I love his honesty, and how he stands by his convictions. I love his tenderness when everything at home seems to be falling apart around my ears. I love his faith in God

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-32878758129527073142011-03-20T20:13:00.003-05:002011-03-20T20:37:43.338-05:00

Irish food week is done here for another year, so it is back to menu planning out of more than one cookbook. While a theme week is fun, I am always happy for the variety that several cookbooks bring.BreakfastCranberry and white chocolate muffins, pearsEggs and bagelsPecan maple oatmealEgg casserole, mangosCereal and bananasKids choiceBrunch- Strawberry french toast, bacon and eggsLunchEgg rolls,

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-38652557550953593802011-03-17T07:48:00.002-05:002011-03-17T07:54:22.508-05:00

Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, Love leaves a memory no one can steal.From a headstone in Ireland One year today, we still miss you Mr. Olsen!

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-68874162531849528602011-03-15T12:50:00.003-05:002011-03-15T12:52:08.529-05:00

God is good but never dance in a small boat - an Irish proverb

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-33401489954659838922011-03-15T09:28:00.002-05:002011-03-15T09:33:21.203-05:00

I like these for a change of pace, but they are not as tender as ones made with butter.2 c unbleached white flour1/2 tsp baking soda1/2 tsp salt2c soft whole wheat flour1 1/2 c buttermilk (plus a bit more)Sift dry ingredients together. Make a well in the center of the flour mix and dump in buttermilk. Stir just long enough to soak in liquid adding more if your flour is too dry. Do not overmix,

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-86984867800662050722011-03-15T08:20:00.003-05:002011-03-15T09:16:12.031-05:00

I don't know about every mother, but this makes my heart glad....From my oldest:-Mom, there are kids that actually eat the white bread they serve at school! That is so nasty! (nuff said)From my youngest:-I told Grandpa that I only wanted to play at McD*nalds, not eat. That food is yucky. (and he did despite being offered french fries that they were eating)From my daughter:-That girl's outfit is

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-57519792001297369782011-03-14T13:25:00.004-05:002011-03-15T09:34:06.109-05:00

St. Patty's Week! Yes, it is all week here, not just Thursday, and we are celebrating all week because that's just how we roll around here. We will have Irish food, Irish beer, Irish whiskey, QVC All things Irish on tv, Irish music...not to mention our Irish children we will be doing all this with. Ok, maybe not the whiskey...or too much of the beer, a girls got to cook with it though. We may

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-57977046378684142042011-03-07T11:14:00.002-06:002011-03-08T11:21:26.272-06:00

Here is the menu for this week. I already shopped, and spent around $100 total, so that is good!BreakfastOatmeal with bananasCerealEggs and biscuitsBagels with pbPancakesMuffins and yogurtLunchCheeseburger Mac (homemade), applesHam and Swiss sandwiches, grapes, carrot sticksSchool lunch (Ash Wednesday, cheesy bread sticks)Boiled eggs, soba noodles, broccoliNut butter sandwiches, dried fruit,

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-92202686765463589992011-03-02T06:07:00.003-06:002011-03-02T06:09:49.640-06:00

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-61614230835319284482011-03-01T08:24:00.004-06:002011-03-01T08:40:11.451-06:00

Always sunny, in a rich man's world....They were playing this song last night on A Nun's Life Podcast Praying with the Sisters. I love this program, there is a chat room and a live podcast where you can see the Sisters as they talk and pray for all requests that are listed in the chat room. ABBA was being played after prayers to celebrate someone getting a job, and this was the song...Somehow

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-62492773679535418012011-02-28T12:35:00.001-06:002011-02-28T12:44:56.312-06:00

BreakfastBrunchOatmeal with apples and raisinsWaffles with peachesEggs and toastCereal and pb toastMuffins and yogurtKid's ChoiceLunch(none since brunch after church)Potstickers, brown rice and edamamePb or almond butter sandwiches, grapes, veggie sticksSukiyaki-style beef, soba noodles, dried fruitCrab sushi, salad or edamameBaked chicken kara-age, brown rice, broccoliSupperCheese Frenchies,

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-22659049370654899082011-02-02T14:11:00.003-06:002011-02-02T14:21:08.999-06:00

So, Courtney over at Women Living Well has raised our next marriage challenge. I have to say, for a G-rated post, this one really hit the spot! We are too look at our husbands through the eyes of his fiance and remember how once he made our hearts skip a beat. (Although I am sure that all your hearts still do.) So for this week's challenge, we are to be the womenly women that God made us to be

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-78027285801013677542011-01-30T21:17:00.002-06:002011-01-30T21:37:43.694-06:00

The word of the month is budget. The word of the month is also Mexico, but the only way we can go there without freaking out about the money directly relates back to the first word. Apparently I have once again fallen prey to my grocery hording style of shopping, lol, because I could feed a small army with all that I have. Soooo this months shopping will consist mostly of fresh produce and

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-18914483722344120682011-01-24T15:15:00.004-06:002011-01-24T15:27:21.807-06:00

It is going to be an interesting week food wise. I have the hubby home all week, which makes an apple and piece of cheese lunches not really an option. I have two extra kids home today and tomorrow since a water main at their school broke, which means pb n j is an option. I have not lost any weight in three weeks, which means whatever I have been doing is not an option...So, what are my options

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-45629615968169370332011-01-16T18:55:00.002-06:002011-01-16T19:04:56.170-06:00

Snow and more snow have been on the agenda, in addition to swimming and more swimming... Doesn't sound like a sentence I ever thought I would be saying, but here I am running swimmer, wrestler, academic clubber, another swimmer, another swimmer.... you know how it goes. Somehow I find myself under the delusion that we are going to be a one sport family. Right. Reality calls, and so does the

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-23949938493761295032011-01-02T15:12:00.002-06:002011-01-02T15:19:18.724-06:00

Happy New Year! Welcome to the start of a beautiful new year with all of it's freshness and resolutions. Here is our first menu for 2011.BreakfastMuffins with yogurtEgg sandwiches with baconOatmealCereal with bananasPancakesPecan sweet rolls and fruitBaked eggs with sausage and fruitLunchPotstickers with soba noodles, edamame and orangesTurkey soboro, rice, green beans and applesSandwiches,

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-52781277589646791532010-12-27T19:13:00.002-06:002010-12-27T19:19:18.452-06:00

Vacation was cold but awesome to see the ocean and my in-laws! We are on CHRISTmas break, so here is the menu with everyone home from school.BreakfastCereal and cinnamon toastOmeletsOatmeal with bananasBiscuits and gravyChocolate chip pancakesBreakfast cakeBrunchLunchSpaghetti and toastGrilled cheese and tomato soupGrilled pb and j, carrots and celeryMac and cheese and green beansMini burgers,

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-7675653850820782802010-12-05T21:39:00.000-06:002010-12-05T21:39:00.303-06:00

Yup, you read it right, I am only cooking for 3 1/2 days. We are getting ready to go on vacation and that means for Mom too. My husband's family went to Mexico last year, and because of his work, we couldn't go. So, when they got back and immediately started planning on going this year, we started saving up our pennies, and we are on a plane on Friday morning with all four kids! Very exciting

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-40093599619962906152010-12-01T18:44:00.005-06:002010-12-01T18:50:33.306-06:00

From BentoFrom Bento

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-38436135799609963642010-11-24T10:22:00.004-06:002010-11-24T11:24:13.659-06:00

What's for lunch WednesdayThis was a stay at home day, so I could spend a bit more time on my three little monster's bentos. They had a ham sandwich, veggies, a satsuma and my first tamagoyaki. The kids didn't care much for this particular recipe, too sweet, so I will try again, a bit more savory.Don't forget to check out some more bento love at Heather's site, Ohayo Bento. She is having an

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-85573939229561119442010-11-23T08:07:00.005-06:002010-11-23T08:34:46.590-06:00

"Are you still doing that bento thing?"That was the question from my girlfriend this week when I talked to her. Uhhhhhhh? How do you answer that one without totally talking your friends ear off about food and packing lunches... You can't, lol. She is used to that by now.I think.For those of you who don't know, bento is a form of lunch packing from Japan. It is a way for mothers to make food

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-23112067905204773052010-11-22T22:04:00.004-06:002010-11-23T07:32:20.692-06:00

It is food week here at our house. Thanksgiving means our refrigerator is full, and so is the pantry as we always get together with several other families during this time. Tuesday we are meeting with our neighbors after all our kids go to bed, Thursday we have our annual "Oh ya, you can't go home for Thanksgiving because you work for a hospital, too" dinner, and Friday our other friend's

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-53884521174775543312010-11-17T11:57:00.003-06:002010-11-17T11:59:48.121-06:00

Italian meatballs with ketchup, tomatoes, grapes, rice and a satsuma

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-57818288072254106872010-11-15T19:31:00.000-06:002010-11-16T07:48:03.336-06:00

Ok, so I spoke too soon about the beautiful weather, but even at 35 degrees, the frost that is following the light snow we had is beautiful. It is not a blizzard, and we have heat and food in our house. I guess there is nothing to complain about!BreakfastBanana muffins, milkEggs and toastOatmealVanilla Soothers and pb toastWafflesCarmel rollsBrunchLunchSoup and crackers (sick kid)Meatballs,

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-81770919756059891292010-11-10T13:37:00.006-06:002010-11-10T13:55:39.385-06:00

Hubby's lunch. There are sliced carrots and zucchini under the pickles, and the orange thing is a peanut butter cup from Halloween. I even snuck a pick in there to make it a little kyaraben like these.

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-61334923714585313572010-11-08T14:18:00.008-06:002010-11-08T14:53:59.846-06:00

Someone remind me, it is November right? I do live in Wisconsin, not Puerto Vallarta, right? The weather here is gorgeous! We took advantage of it and played outside yesterday, everyone doing their favorite, or most necessary, activity before the snow comes on Saturday. What a blessing!BreakfastWhole grain waffles with choice of toppingsBreakfast biscuits and blueberry yogurtBacon and egg

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-88073673780356918372010-10-20T13:18:00.002-05:002010-10-20T13:18:59.039-05:00

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-72523986485529254952010-10-14T07:28:00.003-05:002010-10-14T07:36:10.769-05:00

These are ham and cheese rolls on Flat-Outs. The honey twists I got at the Hmong grocery and the red thing is a twizzler. Yes, occasionally they get candy....

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-73443943691304391662010-09-28T07:05:00.006-05:002010-10-14T07:38:51.162-05:00

I get to stay home today.I. Get. To. Stay. Home. Today.I don't know what to be more grateful for, a busy healthy family on the go, or days when we are not doing anything except being at home, doing nothing more productive than making a mess. If I didn't stay home, I couldn't send things like this in my kids lunch boxes... (shameless segue)Bento #5 MunchablesOr this...Bento #6 Noodle FlowersJust

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-44891397449721272732010-09-26T15:45:00.004-05:002010-09-26T17:51:21.808-05:00

What beautiful Fall weather we are having here, finally. Not that I am apposed to rain. I am rather fond of rain, the smell and the greenness that fallows. What I don't care for is when animals start gathering two by two, and the ark comes floating by.Our basement decided to recreate the Great Flood and provide a very teachable moment for our children in the importance of plugging in a sump

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-86295089585537176982010-09-07T19:05:00.006-05:002010-09-07T20:16:15.809-05:00

Wow did the school year sneak up on anyone else? Before I could hardly take a breath, summer was over, the kids were missing the bus, and I was slowly headed down the road to crazy town. I should have chalked this week up to adjustment for all the kids and not let it get to me, but you know how it is. It is times like this when I really consider the advantages to homeschooling.The other time

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-48899376415137640142010-08-23T07:13:00.004-05:002010-08-23T07:39:19.000-05:00

Our last week at home before school starts and I am not sure who is more excited, me or the kids. We started getting up earlier today to get into practice and (most of) the kids sprang out of bed ready to go. Grocery shopping today as I am looking at a bare refrigerator, but not before I butcher the tomatoes in my garden. BreakfastEggs and biscuitsFrench toastZucchini muffins and smoothiesEgg

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-86368135981970501792010-08-23T07:10:00.002-05:002010-08-23T07:13:02.158-05:00

You know what makes a girl crabby? When she moves her 5 gallon bucket of sucanat and finds that she has lost several cups of it on the floor because the bucket has a hole in it. Not really a hole, that sounds like something small and manageable... This was a crack from side to side on the bottom of the bucket.Grrrrr.

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-81008524168581844682010-08-08T20:17:00.003-05:002010-08-08T20:34:57.517-05:00

It has been a busy weekend with hubby and the two oldest gone. I spent a good chunk of Saturday mowing and working outside in the glorious humidity. Exhausted, I fell onto the couch after putting the littles to bed and then sat there in a state of mindlessness until I forced myself to go to bed. I hate sleeping alone.Hate it.Terribly.Fortunately, there was an incredible storm that woke everyone

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-77574652838612496072010-07-28T12:58:00.003-05:002010-07-28T13:09:46.347-05:00

Laura over at Heavenly Homemakers is giving away three copies of Stephanie's book Real Food on a Real Budget. If you are looking for some guidance on cooking for your family in a real and natural way, and doing it on a budget. This book is 280 pages of information on how to make the most of your kitchen, and do so while maintaining your frugal side. Head on over to Laura's and sign up to win!

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-21055452317530254082010-07-19T06:11:00.002-05:002010-07-19T06:25:34.659-05:00

School is out, vacation back home is done and the garden looks like it is on steroids. All in all, I would call this a pretty productive summer, IF I WAS CRAZY!I plan to "bless" my neighbors with some of the rather ridiculously sized zucchini I found out there last night, and just to make sure they don't hate me, I made chocolate zucchini muffins to take over with them. Here is what we are

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-73057334070399858722010-05-28T08:29:00.007-05:002010-05-28T08:51:06.243-05:00

Photo creditYou all know my thing about eggs don't you? My hubby makes raw egg, raw milk shakes in the morning so I felt like the price I was paying for my eggs was worth knowing they were good. So how could these eggs get any better?Well..... I am a huge advocate for getting to know the people you are buying your food from. So I was talking to one of the owners of the Downtown Grocery the

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-39489856307608944872010-05-26T08:19:00.004-05:002010-05-26T08:25:24.461-05:00

This was a bento for my daughter's lunch. There is bread and butter under the salami and cheese flowers and there is a miniature brownie between the dates and the carrots. I also added a thermos of milk and a baby food jar with ranch dressing in it.

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-72863518965915631282010-05-25T03:38:00.001-05:002010-05-25T03:38:00.366-05:00

We did really well hitting sales this week, #4 was my big grocery store helper since Quality foods is nice enough to have child sized carts for him to use.Downtown GroceryPita chips 3.49Gorilla munch cereal 4.69Monkey bars(2) 8.98Tomato paste 1.69Arthur loops 3.194/5# Apricots 3.47Garlic 0.91Ginger 0.91Total 31.62Quality FoodsNatural pb(2) 4.58Kashi go lean 3.93Lemon Juice 2.37Barbecue

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-65081676771252446572010-05-24T09:10:00.002-05:002010-05-24T09:15:44.605-05:00

This is a good way to use a chuck roast in the summer when you don't feel like eating a typical roast, potato, carrot dinner. It also uses the crock pot, so you are not heating up the house running your oven.3 lb beef chuck roast1 c barbecue sauce (I made my own, just mixing stuff up in a cup)1/2 c apricot or peach jam1/3 c green pepper1 T stone ground mustard2 t sucanat1 small onion sliced12

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-80842963970340837032010-05-24T07:57:00.002-05:002010-05-24T09:09:26.848-05:00

Well, it is officially short timer weather around here. The kids have started counting the days until school is out, and I have to confess, I am too. With the holiday weekend approaching, I am looking forward to the mini break from soccer and football, and the end of swimming lessons. Backpacks will still be need for another week after that, but at that point, we can handle anything. Here is

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-37852604863511100622010-05-12T11:24:00.004-05:002010-05-24T09:45:39.886-05:00

This was a stay at home meal, but easy to do in a bento box. I made egg salad for the face, sliced eggs and olives for eyes, red pepper mouths and the hair was grated carrot or chives. #3 wanted ears for his, so I sliced cucumber very thinly and added that to his. They pulled them apart to eat them, but they were gone in a flash.

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-84722771846394339792010-05-11T05:03:00.006-05:002010-05-11T20:17:46.466-05:00

I tried again to keep my shopping to a minimum since we have a bulk order coming up soon and I want to not do too bad on the budget goals. Since I already spent a chunk at IGA on our Mother's Day tapas supper, I had to be more frugal at the store. The easiest way to do that is look for recipes that fit what we have at home in the pantry or freezer and round out the rest of the week with fresh

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-67736379148240540712010-05-10T07:14:00.004-05:002010-05-10T08:03:20.545-05:00

What a wonderful Mother's Day! I opened my personal thumbprint art from my 4-K child before we left the house, and watered the flower from my 1st grader. We went to church where I wore my new beads my preschooler made me, and then across the street to the 6th Street Filling Station to eat breakfast, while carrying the two Right to Life roses I got at church. The kids had stuffed french toast

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-78340493886826723192010-05-05T06:29:00.003-05:002010-05-08T17:46:47.196-05:00

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-43411953605937028582010-05-03T18:15:00.005-05:002010-05-04T09:34:25.833-05:00

Ok, so I went over at my first store, but my goal was to to stay at $125 for the week no matter how it ended up at each store. I didn't have enough Scrips for Trigs, but plenty for IGA. I also learned that no matter what, if it is not on sale and on my list, I don't buy it at Trigs... the price difference between it and IGA add up, and I also found things on my list on sale at IGA that were not

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-63046223607100313432010-05-03T08:31:00.001-05:002010-05-03T08:48:02.685-05:00

We are eating from a new magazine this week called Clean Eating, so I hope we can really work in some of the produce that is coming into season.BreakfastPigs under the blanketRice pudding with raisinsEggs and toastOatmeal cookie oatmealSurprise muffins and smoothiesCold cerealWaffles and peachesKids choice SaturdayLunchPB and J, carrots, peachesChef salad, bread sticksCheese and jelly sandwiches

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-12368363228640264802010-04-30T07:28:00.003-05:002010-04-30T07:54:21.491-05:00

Nothing like a little green in your house when everything outside still has a touch of brown. It seems like I started our tomatoes only yesterday, and the little darlings have got real leaves on them now. My husband searched high and low (at our local Fleet Farm) for heat mats so that they would get a good start. He ended up splurging on large pots filled with organic compost from our

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-30276813473780583042010-04-28T07:09:00.003-05:002010-04-28T07:12:11.416-05:00

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-76834789578264359802010-04-25T21:26:00.006-05:002010-04-26T13:59:52.839-05:00

While the hubby's away, the diet will pay....Every year my amazing husband goes down to Grant county, WI, and helps his friend plant 1000 trees on his land. Ya, I said it and you read it, 1000 trees. I keep asking how this is possible, but I guess between the deer, the weather and some flooding, not to mention that there is a lot of land, it is an annual event he really looks forward to. He

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-40493998403554960342010-04-24T09:37:00.000-05:002010-05-24T09:41:22.973-05:00

This bento was made from leftover panini we had the night before. I made focaccia and then filled it with balsamic chicken with mushrooms, basil, green onions and tomatoes. The photo does this beautiful sandwich no justice whatsoever.

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-54044827758343086122010-04-16T07:49:00.002-05:002010-04-16T07:50:36.410-05:00

Ok, I know I have never had a Friday Funny post before, and that I am supposed to be focusing on the frugal part of my life, but come on.... this is just funny!

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-37832072415799461992010-04-13T08:31:00.003-05:002010-04-13T08:47:10.647-05:00

It's Gratituesday, and today I am grateful for the time I had getting to know our neighbor Larry. We were in Florida on vacation over St.Patrick's Day when we got a call that our friends had some bad news to share with us. That morning, Larry had passed away very unexpectedly. We had only known him for four and a half years but it seemed as though he had been in our lives forever. Larry was

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-90008332341845996302010-04-12T18:01:00.011-05:002010-04-15T12:01:01.354-05:00

We got some lovely Nebraska steak from my hubby's parents for a Christmas gift this year. What could be better than that? So we are taking advantage of that to enjoy the beautiful weather that we are having, and grilling our hearts out. Man do I love Spring! I am also trying to continue being extra frugal as I have a Country Life order this week, so I will post what I bought for the week with the

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-39691409783455696782010-03-30T05:19:00.000-05:002010-03-30T05:19:00.407-05:00

On budget at the grocery store, but headed out of town this weekend, so will be hard to stay under at a restaurant. I think what is the most frustrating about typing this in is seeing all the things I could have made from scratch but bought to make my life easier so we could be outside. Lame excuse since I just was explaining to my oldest that it really doesn't take that much time to make

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-7344354318235938882010-03-29T07:24:00.003-05:002010-03-29T09:37:00.616-05:00

We had my sister's family staying with us on Sunday and plan to be out of town for the weekend. Hope your Easter is blessed with peace and family.SundayBreakfast-OatmealLunch-Gumbo and cornbreadSupper-Pork roast on flat bread, coleslaw, cantaloupe and grapesMondayBreakfast-Caramel rollsLunch-Leftovers or pb and jSupper-TacosTuesdayBreakfast-Pumpkin bread and smoothiesLunch-Frozen Pizza (#1 in

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-86146753563496768962010-03-26T08:00:00.005-05:002010-03-26T08:50:05.883-05:00

I love making broth. I love how easy it is, how it smells, how it tastes, and how it is pretty much free. Lately every time I roast a chicken, I have thrown the bones back in the oven while I am cleaning up the kitchen. After they brown, I cool them and throw them in a bag in the freezer. Then, when I have a spare moment ( you know, while I am eating bon-bons and watching mexican novellas...)

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-81706270302363816822010-03-23T11:56:00.002-05:002010-03-23T12:02:24.422-05:00

Way under budget so that we can make up for eating out on our return home from vacation.Kwik Trip#3 1/2 Bananas 1.41#2 Onions .75Total 2.16Downtown Grocery2 doz eggs 9.98Quality Foods#5 potatoes 1.392 cans mushrooms 1.58Corned Beef 7.39Cabbage 1.50Buttermilk 2.28Yogurt 2.89 #1 Sliced ham 5.24Smoked turkey sausage 3.00Lettuce 4.26Coupon turkey -.55Coupon ham -.55Total 28.415 Gallons raw milk

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-38944368974727846202010-03-22T11:47:00.000-05:002010-03-23T11:55:41.393-05:00

Sunday-On the road from NebraskaBreakfast- Pancakes and cinnamon rollsLunch- Applebee'sSupper- SubwayMondayBreakfast-Cereal and raw milkLunch- Grilled cheese and applesauceSupper- Steak, green beans, corn, ranch potatoesTuesdayBreakfast- Eggs and toast, white peachesLunch- Chicken soup and ham roll upsSupper-St. Patty's day late Corned beef, colecannon, cabbage (boiled and fried),

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-43845105808125230652010-03-15T13:46:00.000-05:002011-03-15T14:00:22.828-05:00

4 1/2 c unbleached flour1 1/2 t salt1/4 c powdered milk3 T sugar2 t yeast1 large egg3 1/2 T butter room temp1 1/2 c water plus a bit more1 egg for egg washMix together flour, salt, milk, sugar and yeast. Pour in one egg, butter, 1 1/2 water and mix with a spoon or paddle attachment until water is absorbed into flour and ball forms. Add more water if dough seems stiff, you want it soft and

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-23772008904634339712010-03-10T07:45:00.002-06:002010-03-10T07:49:37.862-06:00

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-84707928570078222802010-03-08T08:09:00.003-06:002010-03-08T08:16:36.764-06:00

Photo CreditTired of the usual pizza? We made a variation on Pad Thai chicken pizza from Clean Cooking last night. Yummy!1 pre-made pizza shell1/2 c or more Pad Thai sauce1 large chicken breast diced1/2 red pepper chopped1/2 c onion chopped3 oz mozzarella shredded1 c bean sprouts1/4 c cilantro1/4 c peanuts chopped (optional)Spread Pad Thai sauce on pizza shell. Top with chicken, peppers, onion

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-36347644792423373392010-03-08T07:52:00.003-06:002010-03-08T08:17:36.754-06:00

This will be a shorter week as we are leaving town again, and that coupled with my itchy desire to clean out my freezers makes for an interesting and cheap menu. Headed back to Nebraska, and the big question is whether to pack food for the trip down, or stop at some dreaded restaurant along the way. If you pack for a trip, what is your favorite food to have in the car?SundayBrunch- Pigs in a

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-52161360929244000632010-03-05T08:07:00.002-06:002010-03-05T08:17:59.944-06:00

When I was little, my dad read me a book called The Bike Lesson by Stan and Jan Berenstein. Each time the dad in the book taught his cub a new lesson he would follow it by saying, "This is what you must never do, now let that be a lesson to you."Don't leave a pot of beans soaking on your corn stove for two days. When you try to salvage them by washing (and scrubbing) the beans, repeatedly

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-64666066265478017982010-03-03T05:51:00.003-06:002010-03-03T05:52:33.637-06:00

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-26656972599474775782010-02-28T21:07:00.001-06:002010-02-28T21:07:00.656-06:00

We are back from our lovely vacation where we ate tons of our favorite foods and soaked in culture as well as a bit of sun (and mezcal as well). Now we are back to the grind, but with a bit of a breather as my kids and their parents are taking the month off of activities. With the exception of Wednesday night CCD and karate one day, we are done for the month of April with swimming, gymnastics

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-31853401614516542742010-02-28T12:06:00.001-06:002010-02-28T12:07:32.205-06:00

Been gone a while,now I'm back.Had lots to do,cut me some slack.... lol!

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-81863221186707664982010-01-20T07:06:00.005-06:002010-01-20T07:34:41.544-06:00

As I have mentioned I love Flylady. So I thought that I would move on from the bedtime routine and show you how I start my morning. Since my clothes are already laid out, and my gym bag is packed if I am going, I head straight to the kitchen. I like lists and time lines, they give me a goal even if I don't exactly follow them. Also, this is today's routine, it does vary from day to day, but

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-21289146006712130182010-01-18T13:42:00.007-06:002010-01-18T16:38:12.507-06:00

We hit four stores this time in order to maximize my budget dollar. Here is what we got and how much I spent of my budget so that I didn't have to cry over coupons.Hmong GroceryMirin 2.99Puddings 1.99Roasted green peas 2.993 Udon noodles 2.67Basil 1.25Cilantro 1.25Coconut rolls 1.29Total 14.43Kwik Trip#3 Onions 1.16#5 Bananas 1.94Total 3.10Downtown Grocery2 Kifer 2.383 doz eggs

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-47948177930130649322010-01-17T20:46:00.005-06:002010-01-18T16:41:57.091-06:00

Since I seem to have the grocery budget somewhat in hand, time to add on dining out to that number. Short of packing a picnic every time we are in town for an activity, there is no way we can avoid it completely. I hope that by posting it, I will be more accountable for money spent dining out. My Money program is doing a good job of making me aware already.Monday (make bars for mission at

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-77692469035741012362010-01-15T07:01:00.004-06:002010-01-15T07:46:00.357-06:00

I'll admit, paying $5 a dozen for something that comes out of a chicken's butt seems a bit crazy. Roll with me on this one. Please bear in mind that this is what we do, in no way am I saying that if you don't do things like I do are you a bad person. This works for us, and blogging is just a way for me to share that, not make people feel bad because they can't or don't eat like we do. Believe

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-88026757868597882772010-01-14T05:20:00.006-06:002010-01-14T06:03:30.705-06:00

Those of you who have kids already know what MOMDAR is. Before our oldest was born, I was so excited some nights I couldn't sleep. After he was born, I was so worried I would miss a cry I couldn't sleep. Later, he cried so much I couldn't sleep. This pattern repeated itself for each of my four kids until they no longer cried in the middle of the night.Ahhhhh, sleep...Not.Apparently the lack

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-53611543851675002262010-01-13T05:00:00.003-06:002010-01-13T15:50:30.226-06:00

Ok, this post was supposed to be something that was working for me. Unfortunately, things are just not working right now. I wish I could take the batteries out of my schedule, hit the reset button and start over, but that is not the case. My calender looks like Crayola threw up on it because I have so much going on, and my grocery bill looks great because we keep eating out! Here is a sample

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-33968675733064775702010-01-12T20:35:00.008-06:002010-01-13T05:54:46.796-06:00

This was a fast shopping trip. I only needed to get a few essential things and while I came in on budget, I still may need to get milk this week. We will see how far I can squeak that one. Plus we have been spending a ginormous amount eating out, so that would explain my coming in under budget. Gonna have to put the kibosh on that one...Downtown Grocery2 doz eggs 9.98#1 butter 2.893 boxes

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-46185435652258184212010-01-10T19:51:00.006-06:002010-01-10T21:03:16.799-06:00

Freezer cooking, week 3 and the resolution to stay on target for our grocery budget is stronger than ever!MondayBreakfast-Soaked pancakes, applesauceLunch-Leftover buffetSupper- Dublin coddle, cabbage, soda breadTuesdayBreakfast-Blueberry muffins, smoothiesLunch-Lunch date with hubbySupper-Noodles and CompanyWednesdayBreakfast-WafflesLunch-Pb and J or BLT sandwiches, applesSupper-Ham, sweet

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-7950966508600381772010-01-08T07:31:00.004-06:002010-01-08T08:03:46.292-06:00

We love breakfast in our house. Some of us are ready to eat the minute we get up, some others take an hour to warm up to the idea. No matter what time, breakfast style is always a welcome meal. This morning we had crepes.Unless your first thought on reading this is yuck, you should be making these babies. Especially if you are like me, and have a hard time paying 8-12 dollars for a plate of

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-63979940227098056912010-01-06T07:20:00.003-06:002010-01-06T07:36:14.519-06:00

How do you keep up with your laundry, is probably the most frequent question I get with four kids. I know many of my friends designate Saturday as laundry day, and there they stand, with a mountain piled up on their bed, couch, counter etc. What am I doing on Saturday morning? Usually I'm drinking coffee and making breakfast. The key is not to save it. It's not wine, definitely not going to

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-75230906914562351542010-01-05T09:48:00.007-06:002010-01-12T20:59:12.582-06:00

I know the numbers seem a bit high, I was 4.89 under my goal, need to work on that for next week. And then there is the elephant in the list. Let me just say, that when you see a deal, you gotta go for it, right? We don't drink a lot of wine, more of a beer girl myself, but we have friends that do, and we are social people. So when I saw this deal on Facebook, I called my hubby and we made

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-89952716075165058632010-01-04T05:41:00.000-06:002010-01-05T05:54:04.435-06:00

Wow, welcome to 2010. I love January because it is a time of fresh starts and resolutions. The parking lot at our local YMCA was packed, which is good, unless you are trying to find a parking spot so you don't have to run through the freezing wind with a wet head. Kinda makes me wish the new year started in, oh, May... MondayBreakfast-Lemon poppy seed muffins, cheeseLunch-Tuna salad on a

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-42385293436302237162009-12-28T16:06:00.006-06:002009-12-28T16:21:28.627-06:00

What a wonderful Christmas! No where to be except church in the morning, the kids behaved, the gifts were loved, I was spoiled as usual, and the Eggs Benedict were heavenly. We have one more week of being at home together, I only wish the weather was just a bit more conducive to being outside. Can't have it all, I guess.Here is what we are eating this week. I got a new cookbook for Christmas

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-14743940404721113552009-12-21T10:07:00.004-06:002009-12-21T10:26:09.452-06:00

Wow has Christmas snuck up on me! Don't get me wrong, I spread out my shopping over a couple of very organized days and did some online, but sitting in church yesterday and looking at the huge trees behind the priest reminded me how December has flown. Here is our menu for this week, again shopping from the freezer since the $65 I spent last week mostly went to Saturday night's

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-29249054878089367452009-12-11T20:21:00.003-06:002009-12-11T20:30:14.761-06:00

"Happy birthday, Mom!" This was my greeting this morning from the usually grouchy #2 as she got ready for school. "My gift to you is Love." How appropriate is that, on a frugal Friday, love? Easy to give, no need to wrap, always in stock, and free.At least for her...How many of us give love with a price tag? I know that I have been guilty of it's not fair thoughts, I give so much and what do

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-58880904317110202192009-12-06T20:02:00.002-06:002009-12-09T07:36:59.158-06:00

Well, the soup and sandwich as a lighter supper option has gone over fairly well. Hubby and I loved last nights ham and beans made with the leftover ham bone from Thanksgiving. We poured it over some homemade cornbread and it was so rich and creamy, I had a second helping. Here is the menu plan for this week, with high hopes that we can avoid going out to eat, although that never seems to

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-87974115969441783252009-12-04T07:48:00.005-06:002009-12-04T08:23:56.261-06:00

Since no day of the week starts with R, I guess Friday will have to continue to be my place for adding new recipes to the blog. This is my version of, "Ratfarts, the tortillas didn't come out near big enough or round enough for enchiladas", enchiladas. I love Mexico and its food, but I don't like to take kids to a restaurant, and certainly don't like to pay the bill. This is a go to recipe

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-41964552764519452042009-12-01T11:13:00.005-06:002009-12-01T11:46:20.695-06:00

Downtown GroceryCereal 5.69Fruit bars 4.49Mayo 7.29O's 3.19Cabbage 1.19Swiss 4.77Eggs 4.99Tomatoes 2.69Apples 6.85Zucchini 1.20Total 42.35Quality FoodsButtermilk 2.23Bacon 2.94Total 5.17Grand Total $47.52This is what I will be making this week from my shopping trip.

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-59058493126627556372009-11-30T06:02:00.004-06:002009-12-01T11:44:53.603-06:00

Thanksgiving went of without too much of a hitch. There was some issue with the shape of my rolls, and my friend was not entirely happy with her pies, but everything tasted wonderful and our kids had a great time playing together.I just got my Country Life order, and since it was rather large, I am shopping from my freezer for the next two weeks. Also, I have been finding that as the nights get

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-76388373087453319542009-11-26T09:13:00.000-06:002009-11-27T09:14:12.537-06:00

It was quite a deal, deciding what to have for Thanksgiving. I got so many suggestions from the kids that we nearly ended up having frozen pizza. In the end, smarter heads prevailed, and we had ham. It kept the holiday feeling for hubby and the kids, but provided three meals worth of leftovers for mom. Since we celebrate with another family every year, I only had to make half of the food in

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-11281466518131832852009-11-25T10:32:00.003-06:002009-11-25T11:05:05.882-06:00

You may have noticed the countdown on the side of my blog telling how many days are left in my challenge. If you have never heard of the 101 in 1001 days or the Day Zero Project, go here to check it out and see examples of other's goals around the world. I have to remind myself to update what I have done every once in a while. It has really helped to keep me accountable to my goals, and has

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-752036324082343992009-11-25T09:43:00.006-06:002009-11-25T10:17:32.686-06:00

Downtown GroceryEggs 4.99Arthur loops 3.19Tomatoes 3.89Tomato soup 3.59Garlic 1.33Total 16.99IGAflour 2-3.58marshmallows 0.99milk 1.49cool whip 3-3.00oranges 5-4.45pineapple 3-2.97pudding 3-2.37cheese 3-4.98dish soap 3.19Parmesan 2.50enchilada sauce 2-3.58cottage cheese 1.79cherries 1.69bananas #5-3.43jello 2-1.58pineapple 2.99ham 19.54Total 64.27Milk 5-20.00Grand total

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-80084042316339235262009-11-24T06:22:00.003-06:002009-11-24T06:32:07.462-06:00

It used to be a tradition, getting up at 3:30 AM and going through the ads with my in-laws to see what bargains we could find on "Black Friday". Since we've moved, I don't go anymore. While I do miss the fun of spending a crazy morning with them, it has been somewhat freeing to not have go through the insanity of standing in line for an hour, or getting shoved by some crazy lady who had to get

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-16865147316521109252009-11-23T08:31:00.005-06:002009-11-27T09:22:52.893-06:00

Every year for zillions of Americans (I researched this) families join together to eat the same food on Thanksgiving day. Turkey or ham, mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, sweet potatoes with marshmallows and some sort of roll, bun, bread option.Not this year! We have spent several days hearing opinions as to what we should eat this year on turkey day. I have heard brisket, ribs, cereal,

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-30440124040740775882009-11-22T22:19:00.005-06:002009-11-27T09:20:54.803-06:00

MondayBreakfast-Pb toast, yogurt smoothiesLunch-Homemade raman, veggie sticks, cheeseSupper-Potato soup, cheese toastTuesdayBreakfast-CerealLunch- Hot lunchSupper-Subway (in town for gym and swim)WednesdayBreakfast-Eggs and toastLunch-Creamy mac n cheese, garlic green beansSupper-Spaghetti, saladThanksgiving ThursdayBreakfast- Gingerbread pancakes, yogurt smoothiesLunch-Ham, Ultimate potato

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3737089825495945753.post-11581260603273524262009-11-20T09:39:00.005-06:002009-11-22T10:00:58.269-06:00

My poor Schwan's man. Every time I hit on something new that works, I drop yet another product from my order. Good for me, but at some point he is going to start taking it personal... One package of waffles is $5.39 and I make that last for 2 weeks by only allowing each kid to have 2 at breakfast, one time a week. I felt like I was sending kids to school hungry, and it killed me to pull the

Sonjahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13431955825576910058noreply@blogger.com0