Wednesday, October 31, 2012

Gravy Mix

Ready Gravy Mix

 
Don't you sometimes wish you had gravy to accompany a meaty main dish, or to pour over noodles or potatoes? Sure, you can buy jars of prepared gravy at the market, but often, they go bad before you can use them up. That's why our Test Kitchen loves the Ready Gravy Mix recipe. This dry mix keeps up to 6 months, so anytime you yearn for chicken or beef gravy, you can stir up a portion.
48 ServingsPrep/Total Time: 15 min.

Ingredients

  • 3 tablespoons beef or chicken bouillon granules
  • 3/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  • ADDITIONAL INGREDIENTS (for each batch):
  • 4-1/2 teaspoons butter
  • 3/4 cup cold water

Directions

  • In a small bowl, combine the bouillon, flour and pepper. Store in an
  • airtight container in a cool dry place for up to 6 months. Yield: 8
  • batches (1 cup total).
  • To prepare gravy: In a small saucepan, melt butter. Add 2 tablespoons
  • gravy mix. Cook and stir until lightly browned, about 1 minute.
  • Whisk in water until smooth. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2
  • minutes or until thickened.
  • Yield: 3/4 cup.
Nutrition Facts: 2 tablespoons prepared gravy (prepared with reduced-sodium beef bouillon granules) equals 35 calories, 3 g fat (2 g saturated fat), 8 mg cholesterol, 87 mg sodium, 2 g carbohydrate, trace fiber, trace protein.

Daily Journal

Go grocery shopping
Finish paying bills
Hand wash a shirt
Make baking mix
Dust
Vacuum carpets
Sweep floors
Mop kitchen & bathroom floors
Clip & file coupons
Clean out fridge

Living room:
Polish furniture
Wash windows
Clean TV's & lamps
Wipe fingerprints from walls
Clean wall decor, pictures & frames
Polish ceiling fan
Clear cobwebs
Sweep under furniture
Straighten books
Wash knick knacks & polish shelves
Disinfect light switches
Wash curtains, throw blankets, & table covering
Wash the floor


MENU
Breakfast:
Donuts

Lunch:
Meatloaf sandwich

Dinner:
Chicken sausages in hot dog buns
Salad

Tuesday, October 30, 2012

Turkey Meatloaf

 
Turkey Meatloaf
Skinnytaste.com
Servings: 4 servings Serving Size: 1/4 • Old Points: 5 pts • Points+: 7 pts
Calories: 258.8 • Fat: 5.1 g Protein: 37 g Carb: 14 g Fiber: 1.4 g
Directions:
  • 1/4 cup plus 2 tbsp ketchup
  • 2 tsp worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 small onion, minced
  • 1 tsp olive oil
  • 1.3 lb 99% lean ground turkey
  • 1/2 cup seasoned breadcrumbs (I use 4c Whole Wheat)
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tsp marjoram
  • salt to taste

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 350°. In a small bowl combine 2 tbsp ketchup with worcestershire sauce.
Saute olive oil and onion on low until translucent, remove from heat.
 

In a medium bowl mix turkey, onion, breadcrumbs, egg, 1/4 cup ketchup, salt and marjoram. Place mixture into a loaf pan or shape into a loaf and place on a baking pan. Spoon sauce on top.
Bake uncovered for 55-60 minutes, remove from oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before slicing

Daily Journal

Clean laptop hard drive
Dust
Vacuum carpets
Sweep floors
Mop kitchen & bathroom floors
Clip & file coupons **did some**
Make grocery list
Clean out fridge

Living room:
Polish furniture
Wash windows
Clean TV's & lamps
Wipe fingerprints from walls
Clean wall decor, pictures & frames
Polish ceiling fan
Clear cobwebs
Sweep under furniture
Straighten books
Wash knick knacks & polish shelves
Disinfect light switches
Wash curtains, throw blankets, & table covering
Wash the floor


MENU
Breakfast:
Apple slices with pumpkin dip
Yogurt

Lunch:
Chicken wrap
Sliced tomatoes

Dinner:
Turkey taco meatloaf
Corn
Salad

Monday, October 29, 2012

Pumpkin Dip

Pumpkin Dip

Canned pumpkin makes it easy to whip up this sweet treat. Make sure to purchase 100% pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling.
   
Yield: 8 servings (serving size: 1/4 cup)

Ingredients

  • 3/4 cup (6 ounces) 1/3-less-fat cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup canned pumpkin
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Preparation

1. Combine first 3 ingredients in a medium bowl; beat with a mixer at medium speed until well combined. Add syrup and cinnamon, and beat until smooth. Cover and chill 30 minutes before serving.
Serve the dip with peeled apple slices, banana slices, or cinnamon pita chips.

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Nutritional Information

Amount per serving
  • Calories: 91
  • Calories from fat: 0.0%
  • Fat: 4.6g
  • Saturated fat: 3.1g
  • Monounsaturated fat: 0.0g
  • Polyunsaturated fat: 0.0g
  • Protein: 2.5g
  • Carbohydrate: 10.5g
  • Fiber: 0.5g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg
  • Iron: 0.4mg
  • Sodium: 135mg
  • Calcium: 28mg

Daily Journal

Clean laptop hard drive
Change sheets
Purge magazines & catalogs
Clean mirrors, tv/computer screens & door glass
Empty trash cans
Change master bath cup
Dust
Vacuum carpets
Sweep floors
Change dining room place mats
Wash cat dishes & change place mat
Mop kitchen & bathroom floors
Start clipping & filing coupons


MENU
Breakfast:
Pumpkin bread
Fruit

Lunch:
Pumpkin quesadillas
Fruit

Dinner:
Chicken fingers
Garlic mashed potatoes
Peas

Menu Plan Monday

Monday:
Breakfast: Pumpkin bread & fruit
Lunch: Pumpkin quesadillas & fruit
Dinner: Chicken fingers, garlic mashed potatoes & peas

Tuesday:
Breakfast: Apple donut balls & fruit
Lunch: Chicken wraps & tomatoes
Dinner: Turkey meatloaf, salad & corn

Wednesay:
Breakfast: Sliced apples with pumpkin dip & yogurt
Lunch: Meatloaf sandwich & carrot sticks
Dinner: Chicken sausages & salad

Thursday:
Breakfast: Toasted cinnamon apple quesadillas & yogurt
Lunch: Egg salad sandwich & fruit
Dinner: Bacon & spinach mac and cheese & broccoli

Friday:
Breakfast: Eggs, toast & fruit
Lunch: Leftover pasta & fruit or veggie
Dinner: No beek beef tips, roasted butternut squash & dinner rolls

Saturday:
Breakfast: Veggie & cheese omelet, hash browns & fruit
Lunch: Soup & grilled cheese
Dinner: Leftover night

Sunday:
Breakfast: Oatmeal & fruit
Lunch: Husband will make
Dinner: Pork chops, baked potatoes & salad

For more great menu ideas, head over to Menu Plan Monday

Sunday, October 28, 2012

Trying new things

I recently joined Cravebox. I signed up for a Cooking Light Selects box and tonight I got the email letting me know I'm getting a box. I should receive the box of goodies in about 2 weeks it says. I'm not too familiar with the program yet. I don't know what is going to be in the box but I will keep you posted. I'm excited about this though!!!

Daily Journal

Check the calendar for the week
Stock fridge with beverages
Toss expired coupons
Water indoor plants
Make menu  **started it**


MENU
Breakfast:
Eggs
Toast
Fruit

Lunch:
Husband will make

Dinner:
Chili
Cornbread
Salad

Saturday, October 27, 2012

Daily Journal

Clip coupons & file
Pay bills
Start working on next week's menu
Work on zone tasks

Zone 3
Master Bedroom:
Polish furniture
Clear cobwebs
Wash bedding & curtains
Wash windows
Straighten drawers
De-clutter night stand
Wipe baseboards
Wipe pictures
Clean blinds
Disinfect light switches, door knobs & telephone
Wipe the door down
Clean the ceiling fan
Straighten the closet & sweep it

Master bathroom:
Wash rugs & curtain
Straighten drawers & cabinets
Clear cobwebs
Clean medicine cabinet
Wipe the scale
Wash window
Toss old makeup


MENU
Breakfast:
Pumpkin muffin
Smoothie

Lunch:
Husband will make

Dinner:
Take out
Chocolate chip cookies and I might make some peanut blossoms too

Friday, October 26, 2012

Italian Cheese and Herb Pizza

Italian Cheese and Herb Pizza

(makes one 12 inch pizza)


Ingredients:

1 pre-made 12 inch pizza crust OR homemade pizza crust

5 oz. of Philadelphia Italian Cheese and Herb Cooking Creme OR 5 oz. of Garlic and Herb Cream Cheese
1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup of sliced pepperoni
1 cup of pizza OR pasta sauce

Directions:
1. Preheat oven according to the directions of the pizza crust. If needed, place pizza crust in oven for 10 minutes to pre-bake.

2. When crust is finished pre-baking, spread the Italian Cheese and Herb Cooking Creme on the top. Spread the pizza sauce (or pasta sauce) on top of the Cooking Creme.

3. Combine the cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese in a small bowl.

4. Sprinkle the cheese on top of the pizza (or pasta) sauce.

5. Place the sliced pepperoni over the cheese.

6. Bake at the recommended temperature for the crust for 10-15 minutes, making sure not to burn.

**Recipe Notes: The beauty of making your own pizza is that you can add whatever toppings you wish to it. Ingredients such as chunks of ham, shredded chicken, or even sliced peppers and mushrooms would taste great with this recipe!

**I got this recipe from a blog with really yummy recipes!!!  Cooking with Libby

Daily Journal

Dentist appointment at 11
Separate sliced turkey & freeze
Cut up pineapple
Clip coupons & file
Straighten up laundry room
Pay bills
Clean out purse
Work on zone tasks

Zone 3
Master Bedroom:
Polish furniture
Clear cobwebs
Wash bedding & curtains
Wash windows
Straighten drawers
De-clutter night stand
Wipe baseboards
Wipe pictures
Clean blinds
Disinfect light switches, door knobs & telephone
Wipe the door down
Clean the ceiling fan
Straighten the closet & sweep it

Master bathroom:
Wash rugs & curtain
Straighten drawers & cabinets
Clear cobwebs
Clean medicine cabinet
Wipe the scale
Wash window
Toss old makeup


MENU
Breakfast:
Pumpkin swirl toast
Yogurt
Fruit

Lunch:
Egg salad sandwich
Carrot sticks with ranch dressing

Dinner:
Homemade pizza
Salad
Leftover peanut butter pie

Thursday, October 25, 2012

Daily Journal

Separate sliced turkey & freeze
Cut up pineapple
Clip coupons & file
Work on zone tasks

Zone 3
Master Bedroom:
Polish furniture
Clear cobwebs
Wash bedding & curtains
Wash windows
Straighten drawers
De-clutter night stand
Wipe baseboards
Wipe pictures
Clean blinds
Disinfect light switches, door knobs & telephone
Wipe the door down
Clean the ceiling fan
Straighten the closet & sweep it

Master bathroom:
Wash rugs & curtain
Straighten drawers & cabinets
Clear cobwebs
Clean medicine cabinet
Wipe the scale
Wash window
Toss old makeup


MENU
Breakfast:
Eggs
Pumpkin swirl taost

Lunch:
Chicken wrap
Carrot sticks
Veggie straws

Dinner:
Fish fillets
Mashed potatoes
Salad
Freezy downside-up peanut butter dream pie

Wednesday, October 24, 2012

Daily Journal

Daily routines
Double check menu
Double check grocery list
Go grocery shopping
Clip coupons & file
Sweep floors
Mop bathroom floors

Zone 3
Master Bedroom:
Polish furniture
Clear cobwebs
Wash bedding & curtains
Wash windows
Straighten drawers
De-clutter night stand
Wipe baseboards
Wipe pictures
Clean blinds
Disinfect light switches, door knobs & telephone
Wipe the door down
Clean the ceiling fan
Straighten the closet & sweep it

Master bathroom:
Wash rugs & curtain
Straighten drawers & cabinets
Clear cobwebs
Clean medicine cabinet
Wipe the scale
Wash window
Toss old makeup


MENU
Breakfast:
Blueberry pancakes
Banana
Smoothie

Lunch:
Egg salad wrap
Carrot sticks with ranch dressing hummus

Dinner:
Grilled chicken
Southwestern cheddar steak fries
Broccoli with cheese sauce
Leftover brownies

Tuesday, October 23, 2012

Daily Journal

Mop bathroom floors
Clean out the fridge
Organize coupon binder
Clip coupons & file  **got some done**
Make grocery list & pull needed coupons
Work on zone tasks

Zone 3
Master Bedroom:
Polish furniture
Clear cobwebs
Wash bedding & curtains
Wash windows
Straighten drawers
De-clutter night stand
Wipe baseboards
Wipe pictures
Clean blinds
Disinfect light switches, door knobs & telephone
Wipe the door down
Clean the ceiling fan
Straighten the closet & sweep it

Master bathroom:
Wash rugs & curtain
Straighten drawers & cabinets
Clear cobwebs
Clean medicine cabinet
Wipe the scale
Wash window
Toss old makeup


MENU
Breakfast:
Strawberry poptart
Orange
Pumpkin english muffin
Smoothie

Lunch:
Pasta
Fruit

Dinner:
Chipotle marinated pork ribs
Rice
Salad
Applesauce
Brownie muffins
Nutty good pb brownies

Monday, October 22, 2012

Daily Journal

Daily routines
Clean laptop hard drive
Change sheets
Purge magazines & catalogs
Clean mirrors, tv/computer screens & door glass
Empty trash cans
Change master bath cup
Dust
Vacuum carpets
Sweep floors
Change dining room place mats
Wash cat dishes & change place mat
Mop kitchen & bathroom floors
Start clipping & filing coupons


Zone 3
Master Bedroom:
Polish furniture
Clear cobwebs
Wash bedding & curtains
Wash windows
Straighten drawers
De-clutter night stand
Wipe baseboards
Wipe pictures
Clean blinds
Disinfect light switches, door knobs & telephone
Wipe the door down
Clean the ceiling fan
Straighten the closet & sweep it

Master bathroom:
Wash rugs & curtain
Straighten drawers & cabinets
Clear cobwebs
Clean medicine cabinet
Wipe the scale
Wash window
Toss old makeup


MENU
Breakfast:
Pumpkin bagel with cream cheese
Banana

Lunch:
Turkey grilled cheese sandwich
Apple

Dinner:
Beef roast
Potatoes
Carrots
Dinner rolls
Leftover chocolate cupcakes

Sunday, October 21, 2012

Menu Plan Monday

Monday:
Breakfast: Pumpkin bagel with cream cheese & a banana
Lunch: Turkey grilled cheese sandwich & an apple
Dinner: Beef roast, potatoes, carrots, dinner rolls & leftover chocolate marshmallow madness cupcakes

Tuesday:
Breakfast: Strawberry poptart & fruit
Lunch: Pasta & fruit
Dinner: Marinated pork ribs, mashed sweet potatoes, salad, applesauce & brownie muffins

Wednesday:
Breakfast: Blueberry pancakes & an apple
Lunch: Egg salad wrap & carrots with ranch dressing
Dinner: Grilled chicken, southwestern cheddar steak fries, broccoli with cheese sauce & leftover brownie muffins

Thursday:
Breakfast: Eggs & toast
Lunch: Grilled chicken wraps & carrot sticks
Dinner: Fish nuggets, mashed potatoes, salad & freezy downside-up peanut butter dream pie

Friday:
Breakfast: Pumpkin toast & fruit
Lunch: Egg salad sandwich & carrots with ranch dressing
Dinner: Either a pepperoni pizza ring or a four cheese whtie pizza, salad & leftover pie

Saturday:
Breakfast: Pumpkin muffins & fruit
Lunch: Italian calzones & salad
Dinner: Take out & chocolate chip cookies

Sunday:
Breakfast: Eggs, toast & fruit
Lunch: Pizza bites & salad
Dinner: Spicy southwestern chili, cornbread & salad. Dessert is TBD

Snacks:
Deviled eggs
Fresh fruit
Whoopie pies
Popcorn
Hummus & carrot sticks
Granola bars
Canned fruit

For more great menu ideas, head over to Menu Plan Monday.



Creamy Skillet Macaroni & Cheese

Creamy Skillet Macaroni & Cheese

2 - cups uncooked elbow macaroni
2 - tablespoons butter
2 - tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 1/2 - cups half-and-half cream or evaporated milk
3/4 - lb Velveeta cheese, cubed

Cook macaroni according to the package directions. Meanwhile, in a
large nonstick skillet, melt butter over medium heat.

Stir in flour until smooth. Gradually add cream; bring to a boil.
Cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. Reduce heat to low and stir
in the cheese until melted.

Drain macaroni; add to cheese mixture. Cook and stir for 3-4 minutes
or until heated through. Remove from heat and serve.

Daily Journal

Daily routines
Water indoor plants
Make menu for the week
Prepare for family dinner


MENU
Breakfast:
Pumpkin coffee cake
Apple

Lunch:
Husband will make

Dinner:
Macaroni & cheese with hot dogs
Salad
Chocolate cupcakes

Saturday, October 20, 2012

Daily Journal

Daily routines
Go to birthday party
Work on zone tasks

Zone 3:
Office:
Clean windows
Clear cobwebs
Wipe baseboards

Laundry room:
Wipe down washer & dryer
Empty trash can
Sweep & mop floor
Wash detergent dispenser & lint screen

Spare rooms:
Wash bedding
Flip mattress
Wash curtains
Clean windows
Wipe baseboards


MENU
Breakfast:
Pumpkin bread
Fruit

Lunch:
Pasta

Dinner:
Going out for seafood

Friday, October 19, 2012

Daily Journal

Daily routines
Clean out purse
Work on zone tasks

Zone 3:
Office:
Clear off desk
Straighten drawers & cubbies
Clean monitor screen
Fill printer caddy
Clean windows
Clear cobwebs
Check supplies
Wipe baseboards

Laundry room:
Wipe down washer & dryer
Throw out empty bottles
Empty trash can
Check supplies
Sweep & mop floor
Wash detergent dispenser & lint screen

Spare rooms:
Wash bedding
Flip mattress
Wash curtains
Clean windows
Wipe baseboards


MENU
Breakfast:
Pumpkin scones
Fruit

Lunch:
Leftovers

Dinner:
Chicken stir fry
Rice
Bread & butter
Chocolate marshmallow madness cupcakes

Thursday, October 18, 2012

Daily Journal

Daily routines
Make an appointment with Ryan's family worker
Work zone tasks

Zone 3:
Main bathroom:
Wash rugs, shower curtains, hamper & window curtain
Straighten drawers & cabinets
Scrub tub & shower
Clean medicine cabinet
Throw away empty bottles
Wash the trash can
Clean window
Clear cobwebs
Wipe baseboards

Office:
Clear off desk
Straighten drawers & cubbies
Clean monitor screen
Fill printer caddy
Clean windows
Clear cobwebs
Check supplies
Wipe baseboards

Laundry room:
Wipe down washer & dryer
Throw out empty bottles
Empty trash can
Check supplies
Sweep & mop floor
Wash detergent dispenser & lint screen

Spare rooms:
Wash bedding
Flip mattress
Wash curtains
Clean windows
Wipe baseboards


MENU
Breakfast:
Scrambled eggs
Toast

Lunch:
Smoothie
Cheese quesadilla

Dinner:
Salisbury steaks with onion gravy
Mashed potatoes
Bacon cheeseburgers
Corn
Holy moly cannoli cones

Wednesday, October 17, 2012

Daily Journal

Daily routines
Double check menu
Double check grocery list
Go grocery shopping
Buy birthday gift
Clean out the fridge
Clip coupons & file
Clean laptop hard drive
Dust
Vacuum carpets
Sweep floors
Mop kitchen & bathroom floors

Zone 3:
Main bathroom:
Wash rugs, shower curtains, hamper & window curtain
Straighten drawers & cabinets
Scrub tub & shower
Clean medicine cabinet
Throw away empty bottles
Wash the trash can
Clean window
Clear cobwebs
Wipe baseboards

Office:
Clear off desk
Straighten drawers & cubbies
Clean monitor screen
Fill printer caddy
Clean windows
Clear cobwebs
Check supplies
Wipe baseboards

Laundry room:
Wipe down washer & dryer
Throw out empty bottles
Empty trash can
Check supplies
Sweep & mop floor
Wash detergent dispenser & lint screen

Spare rooms:
Wash bedding
Flip mattress
Wash curtains
Clean windows
Wipe baseboards


MENU
Breakfast:
Cereal
Fruit

Lunch:
Cheese quesadilla
Orange
Carrot sticks

Dinner:
White chipotle chicken chili
Salad
Cornbread

Tuesday, October 16, 2012

Daily Journal

Daily routines
Clean out the fridge
Organize coupon binder
Clip coupons & file
Make grocery list & pull needed coupons
Clean laptop hard drive
Purge magazines & catalogs
Clean mirrors, tv/computer screens & door glass
Empty trash cans
Change master bath cup
Dust
Vacuum carpets
Sweep floors
Mop kitchen & bathroom floors

Zone 3:
Main bathroom:
Wash rugs, shower curtains, hamper & window curtain
Straighten drawers & cabinets
Scrub tub & shower
Clean medicine cabinet
Throw away empty bottles
Wash the trash can
Clean window
Clear cobwebs
Wipe baseboards

Office:
Clear off desk
Straighten drawers & cubbies
Clean monitor screen
Fill printer caddy
Clean windows
Clear cobwebs
Check supplies
Wipe baseboards

Laundry room:
Wipe down washer & dryer
Throw out empty bottles
Empty trash can
Check supplies
Sweep & mop floor
Wash detergent dispenser & lint screen

Spare rooms:
Wash bedding
Flip mattress
Wash curtains
Clean windows
Wipe baseboards


MENU
Breakfast:
Oatmeal
Fruit

Lunch:
Macaroni & cheese
Veggies
Veggie burger
Apple

Dinner:
Panera's Frontega chicken sandwich
Chips
Pickles

Monday, October 15, 2012

Tomato Basil Parmesan Soup

Tomato Basil Parmesan Soup in the Slow Cooker
Makes about 2 quarts (about 8 servings)

2 (14 oz) cans diced tomatoes, with juice
1 cup finely diced celery
1 cup finely diced carrots
1 cup finely diced onions
1 tsp dried oregano or 1 T fresh oregano
1 T dried basil or 1/4 cup fresh basil
4 cups chicken broth
½ bay leaf
½ cup flour
1 cup Parmesan cheese
½ cup butter
2 cups half and half, warmed (or skim milk if you’re trying to cut some calories)
1 tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper

1. Add tomatoes, celery, carrots, chicken broth, onions, oregano, basil, and bay leaf to a large slow cooker.
2. Cover and cook on LOW for 5-7 hours, until flavors are blended and vegetables are soft.
3. About 30 minutes before serving prepare a roux. Melt butter over low heat in a skillet and add flour. Stir constantly with a whisk for 5-7 minutes. Slowly stir in 1 cup hot soup. Add another 3 cups and stir until smooth. Add all back into the slow cooker. Stir and add the Parmesan cheese, warmed half and half, salt and pepper. Add additional basil and oregano if needed (the slow cooker does a number on spices and they get bland over time, so don’t be afraid to always season to taste at the end).
4. Cover and cook on LOW for another 30 minutes or so until ready to serve.


Stove-Top Version of Tomato Basil Parmesan Soup
If you want to make this recipe on the stove-top you can! Here is the adjusted recipe:

3 cups diced tomatoes with juice (you can use canned)
1 cup finely diced celery
1 cup finely diced carrots
1 Tbsp fresh oregano or 1 tsp dried
4 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup flour
1 cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1 cup finely diced onions
4 Tbsp fresh basil or 1 Tbsp dried
1/2 bay leaf
1/2 cup butter
2 cups half and half, warmed (if you want you can use whole milk, evaporated milk instead…or even skim if you want to skinny it up)
1 tsp salt
 
 
1. Heat oil in 4 quart soup pot. Add celery, onions and carrots. Saute 5 minutes. Add basil, oregano, bay leaf, tomatoes, and chicken broth. Bring it to a boil, reduce heat and simmer until carrots are tender (15 minutes).
2. While soup simmers, prepare a roux. Melt butter over low heat, add flour and cook, stirring constantly, 5-7 minutes. Slowly stir in 1 cup hot soup. Add another 3 cups and stir until smooth. Add back into soup pot.
3. Simmer, stirring constantly, until soup begins to thicken. Add Parmesan cheese and whisk to blend. Stir warmed half and half, salt and pepper. Simmer over low heat 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Daily Journal

I tried to get this up before we left but I ran out of time. We had a meeting an hour away this morning so I probably won't get much of this done.

Daily routines
Clean laptop hard drive
Change sheets
Purge magazines & catalogs
Clean mirrors, tv/computer screens & door glass
Empty trash cans
Change master bath cup
Dust
Vacuum carpets
Sweep floors
Change dining room place mats
Mop kitchen & bathroom floors
Start clipping & filing coupons


MENU
Breakfast:
Pumpkin muffin
Yogurt

Lunch:
We had subs

Dinner:
Tomato basil parmesan soup
Salad

Baked Ham Rigatoni

This recipe courtesy of Mommy's Kitchen

Baked Ham Rigatoni

Ingredients:
1 - 16 oz package rigatoni pasta
4 - tablespoons butter, separated (not margarine)
1/2 - cup flour
4 - cups milk
2 - cups grated mozzarella cheese, separated
1/2 lb - thinly sliced ham (I used leftover spiral ham)
onion salt, to taste
pepper, to taste
cayenne pepper (optional)


Directions:
Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Start by making the white sauce. In a medium saucepan melt 2 tablespoons butter.

While the butter melts start the water for the pasta to boil. When the water is boiling, add pasta and cook until al dente (8-10 minutes)

When the butter is melted, whisk in the flour and blend until nice and light brown. Slowly start adding the milk about one cup at a time whisking as you go.

This keeps the lumps from forming. Keep adding the milk until you have added the full 4 cups. If the mixture starts to boil too much just lower the heat. Keep whisking until you have a smooth sauce

The sauce is done when it can coat the back of the spoon. When the white sauce is done, add the onion powder, pepper and cayenne pepper if using. Add the ham last and mix gently.

Add 1 cup of the cheese to the white sauce and stir until the cheese is melted. Drain the pasta and add to the sauce. Gently fold the mixture until everything is blended.

Spray a 9 x 13 baking dish with non stick spray. Add the pasta mixture and smooth the top. Sprinkle with additional cup of cheese and dot with remaining 2 tablespoons butter.

Bake for 25 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown. Remove from oven let cool and serve

Menu Plan Monday


Monday
Breakfast: Pumpkin muffin & yogurt
Lunch: We may eat out since we have a meeting out of town at 10:30
Dinner: Tomato basil parmesan soup & salad

Tuesday
Breakfast: Oatmeal & fruit
Lunch: Marcaroni & cheese, veggies & fruit
Dinner: Panera's Frontega Chicken sandwich, chips & pickles

Wednesday
Breakfast: Cereal & fruit
Lunch: Cheese quesadillas, orange & carrot sticks
Dinner: White chipotle chicken chili, salad & cornbread

Thursday
Breakfast: Scrambled eggs & a smoothie
Lunch: Peanut butter banana smoothie, fruit & veggies
Dinner: Salisbury steak with onion gravy, mashed potatoes & corn

Friday
Breakfast: Pumpkin scone & fruit
Lunch: Leftovers
Dinner: Basil chicken stir fry, rice & bread

Saturday
Breakfast: Pumpkin bread & fruit
Lunch: Leftovers
Dinner: Oven baked chimichangas & salad

Sunday
Breakfast: Pumpkin coffee cake & fruit
Lunch: Husband will make
Dinner: Maraconi & cheese with hot dogs & corn


For more great menu ideas, head over to Menu Plan Monday

Sunday, October 14, 2012

Daily Journal

Put juice in the fridge
Water indoor plants
Prepare for family dinner, got a house full coming today


MENU
Breakfast:
Pumpkin bagel
Fruit

Lunch:
Husband will make

Dinner:
Baked ham penne
Oatmeal bread
Salad
Apple pie

Saturday, October 13, 2012

Daily Journal

Separate lunch meat & freeze
Work on zone tasks

Zone - Kitchen:
Empty fridge & thoroughly clean
Clean microwave in & out
Run vinegar through coffee maker
Clean stove & oven
Clean oven drawer
Wash canisters
Clean drawers & cupboards
Wipe fingerprints from walls
Wash window
Clean fan, vent, hood filters & hood
Wipe down cabinet fronts
Clean ceiling fan
Clean under the sink
Wash throw rug, curtain & pot holders
Clean toaster & crumb tray
Clear cobwebs
Wipe baseboards
Clear off counters & clean
Wash the trash can
Disinfect light switches & telephone
Wipe down small appliances
Wipe down large appliances
Clean the top of the pantry cupboard
Empty, declutter & organize pantry cupboard
Inventory freezers


MENU
Breakfast:
Fried eggs
Corned beef hash

Lunch:
Husband will make

Dinner:
Take out
Super Fudge Brownies

Friday, October 12, 2012

Daily Journal

Straighten up the laundry room
Pay bills
Clean out purse
Dice up ham & put in freezer
Separate chicken breasts & freeze
Separate lunch meat & freeze
Work on zone tasks

Zone - Kitchen:
Empty fridge & thoroughly clean
Clean microwave in & out
Run vinegar through coffee maker
Clean stove & oven
Clean oven drawer
Wash canisters
Clean drawers & cupboards
Wipe fingerprints from walls
Wash window
Clean fan, vent, hood filters & hood
Wipe down cabinet fronts
Clean ceiling fan
Clean under the sink
Wash throw rug, curtain & pot holders
Clean toaster & crumb tray
Clear cobwebs
Wipe baseboards
Clear off counters & clean
Wash the trash can
Disinfect light switches & telephone
Wipe down small appliances
Wipe down large appliances
Clean the top of the pantry cupboard
Empty, declutter & organize pantry cupboard
Inventory freezers


MENU
Breakfast:
Pumpkin spice donut
Apple slices

Lunch:
Meatball wrap
Carrot sticks with dip
Asian pear

Dinner:
Cheddar chili dogs
French fries
Mixed veggies

Thursday, October 11, 2012

Bolognese Sauce

I found this recipe at http://bellavita-bellasblog.blogspot.com/

Bolognese Sauce:.
2 Tbsp. chopped onion
3 Tbsp. olive oil
3 Tbsp. butter or 3 more Tbsp olive oil instead
2 Tbsp. chopped celery
2 Tbsp. chopped carrot
3/4 lb. lean ground beef/chuck
salt and pepper (to taste)
1/4 cup red wine
2 cups good quality canned Italian tomatoes, chopped, with juice
Chopped basil or Italian parsley to taste preference

.
Servings: 4 (so double, triple, etc. to your desired amount, which can be frozen!)

What you need to do to prepare the Bolognese Sauce:
In a very deep, heavy, enameled cast-iron pot, put in the oil and butter.
When heated (don't burn these!), saute' the onion over medium heat until translucent.
Add the celery and carrot and cook gently for about 5 minutes.
Add the ground beef, crumbling it in the pot with a large wooden spoon.
Sprinkle a little salt and pepper into the pot.
Cook until browned.
Add the wine and turn up the heat to medium high.
Cook until the wine is evaporated.
Add the tomatoes and stir thoroughly.
Cook until the sauce begins to boil and then turn the heat down to the lowest simmer possible.
Cook, on this very low temperature for about 3 - 4 hours, stirring occasionally.
Tasting along the way and adding any more salt, pepper, or favorite herb (basil, Italian parsley, etc.) to your preference.
.
Serve on top or blended in to your favorite pasta shape.

No Peek Beef Tips

No Peek Beef Tips


Ingredients:
2 lb. - Beef tenderloin tips, Stew Meat, Chuck Roast or Chuck Eye, cubed
1 - 10.5 oz can cream of mushroom soup
1 – packet brown gravy mix
1 - packet lipton dry onion soup mix
1 – 4 oz can mushrooms
1 - cup water or ginger ale soda

Directions:
Add cubed meat to a 9 x 13 inch pan. In a big bowl mix the remaining ingredients together and pour over the meat add mushrooms and stir to coat.

Cover with foil and bake at 300 degrees for 3 Hours do not remove foil until done. Serve over rice, mashed potatoes or noodles.

Daily Journal

Switch out the rest of the winter clothes
Dice up ham & put in freezer
Separate chicken breasts & freeze
Separate lunch meat & freeze
Grate parmesan cheese
Make some oj
Work on zone tasks

Zone - Kitchen:
Empty fridge & thoroughly clean
Clean microwave in & out
Run vinegar through coffee maker
Clean stove & oven
Clean oven drawer
Wash canisters
Clean drawers & cupboards
Wipe fingerprints from walls
Wash window
Clean fan, vent, hood filters & hood
Wipe down cabinet fronts
Clean ceiling fan
Clean under the sink
Wash throw rug, curtain & pot holders
Clean toaster & crumb tray
Clear cobwebs
Wipe baseboards
Clear off counters & clean
Wash the trash can
Disinfect light switches & telephone
Wipe down small appliances
Wipe down large appliances
Clean the top of the pantry cupboard
Empty, declutter & organize pantry cupboard
Inventory freezers


MENU
Breakfast:
Pumpkin waffles
Sausages
Fruit

Lunch:
Cheese quesadillas with salsa
Soup
Fruit
Brownie

Dinner:
Spaghetti and meatballs
Salad

Wednesday, October 10, 2012

Daily Journal

Clean out the fridge
Double check menu
Double check grocery list
Go grocery shopping

Zone - Kitchen:
Empty fridge & thoroughly clean
Clean microwave in & out
Run vinegar through coffee maker
Clean stove & oven
Clean oven drawer
Wash canisters
Clean drawers & cupboards
Wipe fingerprints from walls
Wash window
Clean fan, vent, hood filters & hood
Wipe down cabinet fronts
Clean ceiling fan
Clean under the sink
Wash throw rug, curtain & pot holders
Clean toaster & crumb tray
Clear cobwebs
Wipe baseboards
Clear off counters & clean
Wash the trash can
Disinfect light switches & telephone
Wipe down small appliances
Wipe down large appliances
Clean the top of the pantry cupboard
Empty, declutter & organize pantry cupboard
Inventory freezers


MENU
Breakfast:
Bacon, egg and cheese on an english muffin
Fruit

Lunch:
Sandwich
Chips
Frui

Dinner:
Chicken tenders
Macaroni & cheese
Fruit

Tuesday, October 9, 2012

Daily Journal

Clean out the fridge
Make next week's menu
Clean out & organize coupon binder
Clip & file coupons
Make grocery list
Spend 15 minutes zone cleaning

Zone - Kitchen:
Empty fridge & thoroughly clean
Clean microwave in & out
Run vinegar through coffee maker
Clean stove & oven
Clean oven drawer
Wash canisters
Clean drawers & cupboards
Wipe fingerprints from walls
Wash window
Clean fan, vent, hood filters & hood
Wipe down cabinet fronts
Clean ceiling fan
Clean under the sink
Wash throw rug, curtain & pot holders
Clean toaster & crumb tray
Clear cobwebs
Wipe baseboards
Clear off counters & clean
Wash the trash can
Disinfect light switches & telephone
Wipe down small appliances
Wipe down large appliances
Clean the top of the pantry cupboard
Empty, declutter & organize pantry cupboard
Inventory freezers


MENU
Breakfast:
Poptarts
Cheese stick
Fruit

Lunch:
Baked potato
Fruit

Dinner:
No peek beef tips
Egg noodles or mashed potatoes
Broccoli wtih cheese sauce
Oatmeal raisin softie

Monday, October 8, 2012

Menu Plan Monday


Monday:
Breakfast: Yogurt, apple & toast
Lunch: Cheese & veggie grinder, tomato soup & italian ice
Dinner: Chicken piccata with angel hair pasta & mixed veggies

Tuesday:
Breakfast: Poptarts, cheese & fruit
Lunch: Baked potato & fruit
Dinner: No peek beef tips, Noodles or mashed potatoes & Broccoli with cheese sauce

Wednesday:
Breakfast: Bacon, egg & cheese on an english muffin & fruit
Lunch: Sandwich, chips & pears
Dinner: Chicken tenders, Macaroni & cheese & Fruit

Thursday:
Breakfast: Pumpkin waffles & sausages
Lunch: Cheese quesadilla with salsa, soup, fruit & a brownie
Dinner: Spaghetti & meatballs & Salad

Friday:
Breakfast: Fried eggs, corned beef hash & an english muffin
Lunch: Tuna salad sandwich & apple
Dinner: Coney island hot dogs & French fries

Saturday:
Breakfast: Pancakes & fruit
Lunch: Husband will make
Dinner: Take out

Sunday:
Breakfast: Pumpkin bagel & banana
Lunch: Husband will make
Dinner: Baked ham rigatoni, Oatmeal bread & Salad

For more great menu ideas, head over to Menu Plan Monday.

Daily Journal

Daily routines
Clean laptop hard drive
Change sheets
Purge magazines & catalogs
Clean mirrors, tv/computer screens & door glass
Empty trash cans
Change master bath cup
Dust
Vacuum carpets
Sweep floors
Change dining room place mats
Mop kitchen & bathroom floors
Start clipping & filing coupons

Zone - Kitchen:
Empty fridge & thoroughly clean
Clean microwave in & out
Run vinegar through coffee maker
Clean stove & oven
Clean oven drawer
Wash canisters
Clean drawers & cupboards
Wipe fingerprints from walls
Wash window
Clean fan, vent, hood filters & hood
Wipe down cabinet fronts
Clean ceiling fan
Clean under the sink
Wash throw rug, curtain & pot holders
Clean toaster & crumb tray
Wipe down breadbox
Clear cobwebs
Wipe baseboards
Clear off counters & clean
Wash the trash can
Disinfect light switches & telephone
Wipe down small appliances
Wipe down large appliances
Clean the top of the pantry cupboard
Empty, declutter & organize pantry cupboard
Inventory freezers




MENU
Breakfast:
Yogurt
Apple

Lunch:
Cheese grinder
Tomato soup
Italian ice

Dinner:
Orange chicken & vegetables  Chicken piccata over angel hair pasta
Rice   Caesar salad
French bread

Sunday, October 7, 2012

Daily Journal

Daily routines
Put water bottles in the fridge


MENU
Breakfast:
Pumpkin donuts
Yogurt
Juice

Lunch:
Husband makes

Dinner:
Slow cooker cheesy chicken and rice
Caesar salad
French bread

Saturday, October 6, 2012

Daily Journal

Pick a few things up at the grocery store

Work on this week's zone chores:
Dining room:
Clean bakers rack
Clean junk drawer
Disinfect the light switches & door knobs
Spot clean walls
Polish table & chairs
Wipe cabinet fronts
Tidy linens
Sweep & mop floor

Entryway:
Clean front door
Disinfect light switch & door knobs
Spot clean walls
Straighten coats
Sweep & mop floor

Front porch:
Sweep down cobwebs
Sweep porch
Wipe light fixtures
Shake welcome mat


MENU
Breakfast:
Pumpkin muffin
Yogurt

Lunch:
Husband will make

Dinner:
Cheeseburgers
Onion rings
Macaroni & cheese
Either a veggie or a salad
Chocolate chip cookie bars

Friday, October 5, 2012

Daily Journal

We are home. New York City is wonderful. I absolutely loved being there!! I was kind of sad we had to come home. So, today I am:

Catch up on laundry

Work on this week's zone chores:
Dining room:
Clean & straighten drawers
Clean bakers rack
Clean junk drawer
Clean chandelier
Disinfect the light switches & door knobs
Spot clean walls
Polish table & chairs
Clean windows
Clean pictures on walls
Clear cobwebs
Wipe cabinet fronts
Tidy linens
Wipe baseboards
Sweep & mop floor

Entryway:
Clean front door
Disinfect light switch & door knobs
Clear cobwebs
Spot clean walls
Dust furniture
Straighten coats
Wipe baseboards
Wash table coverings
Sweep & mop floor

Front porch:
Declutter
Sweep down cobwebs
Sweep off furniture
Sweep porch
Wipe light fixtures
Shake welcome mat

MENU
Breakfast:
Cereal
Fruit

Lunch:
Grilled cheese
Soup

Dinner:
Chicken cordon bleu
Rice
Salad
French bread

Monday, October 1, 2012

Daily Journal

Daily routines
Make sure kitties have enough food & water for a few days
Pack

Have a good week!!!

Menu Plan for the Week of May 5th

Sunday Brunch: We usually will have eggs, another source of protein (bacon, sausage, etc) and a carb (toast, english muffins, pancakes, etc)...