Hitchin' Collie Lite-Beer

Strawberry Bruschetta

2009-08-19T09:17:00.003-04:00

1 - crusty Italian roll, cut into 16 slices (hoggies and blue taco chips work well too)
1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped (I do a combination of big and small dices)
1/2 red onion chopped ("")
2 TBSP FRESH basil leaves thinly sliced (please use fresh for the best flavor)
2 tsp balsamic vinegar
1 tsp sugar (you can use splenda or equal too)
1/2 tsp evoo
1/4 tsp salt

Preheat the oven to 350*F
Place the bread on a baking sheet in a single layer and lightly spray with nonstick spray. Bake until golden brown.
Combine all ingredient in a small bowl. Mix well
Top toast with 1 tbsp of mixture, serve at once.

The bruschetta can be made earlier in the day and even I used it 2 days later. Just don't put it on the bread until ready to eat.

Enjoy this treat with a glass of wine and a bit of gossip!

Kirk Hale Corthum

2009-06-11T06:39:00.002-04:00

Today is a very sad day for me, as my friend Kirk has passed. He was a wonderful person. He smiled from ear to ear every time I saw him and always had something funny to say even in hard times. He was only 36 years old. Please say a prayer for his family as I know they will have a terrible time with the loss.
Kirk may you rest in peace and enjoy fishing with the big guy!

Love Me

Wedding and Prom Season Begins

2009-05-06T06:08:00.003-04:00

This past weekend, starting on Thursday, officially began the wedding and prom season for work. The chaos, the madness, and then the ending beauty is all well worth the little bit of sanity I still have. (Which as we all know is not very much to begin with).

I find that the week of an event so much can change. Bridal members have issues, your count gains or reduces (this weekend it went up 64%, so not typical), the groom disappears, you can't use the decorations you thought you could, members of the party are too young or too old to get in, and finally butterflies are added to the mix.

Where as it was a little bit of a struggle for the wedding, I've decided that I rather take that than realizing at the prom... I'm OLD and totally out of fashion (or at least old enough to know better, which I guess isn't that bad) :(

Enjoy the photo's

~Margarit~

Retirement...Uh!

2009-04-20T05:58:00.004-04:00

This past week Herbie had the workweek off. Every morning while I was still in bed with him when I'd start to get up, he would grab me, hold me for just a bit, smell my hair, and then kiss my cheek and let me go get ready for the day. It was the most loving and wonderful feeling a girl could ask for. I would wake up feeling warm, loved, and know my day would be all right knowing I could come home to him.
I hope our retirement is just the same love hold as it is now. I don't want to rush life by any means, but I can't wait to spend time just with Herbie, have no worries, and relax.

Here's to a great retirement and a vacation together soon, my love!
Here's to bloggers, that they find a love that is as true as the butterflies in your tummy.

~Margarit~

Terre Haute Young Leaders Strick Again! BARK IN THE PARK

2009-04-14T09:50:00.001-04:00

August 1, 2009
Support the Terre Haute Humane Society, 14th and Chestnut Community Center and the Terre Haute Young leaders!

Who: You! With or without your dog

What: A 3-mile charity walk organized by the Terre Haute Young
Leaders to benefit the Terre Haute Humane Society and the 14th and Chestnut Community Center

Where: Deming Park, Start/Finish Line is the Lions Shelter No. 1
When: Saturday, August 1, 2009, RAIN or SHINE!
8:30 a.m. - Registration, 10:15 a.m. - Walk begins
Support at any level is appreciated
‘Purr’ific Sponsor
$1,000
Only ten sponsors sold at this level (including media)
Package Includes:
102.7, 92.7, ESPN Radio, 104.9
Tribune Star
Five Terre Haute Chamber of Commerce e-mail blasts regarding event sent to over 2,000 business contacts
Logo on t-shirts day of event
Booth placement day of event in Deming Park
Invite up to 5 walkers and their pet at no cost (names must be given to event coordinator by July 18)
Logo on event flyer and event brochure
Receive one yard sign with logo at park day of event

Sponsor Today

Throw Us a Bone Sponsor
$500
Only ten sponsors sold at this level
Package Includes:
102.7, 92.7, ESPN Radio, 104.9
Five Terre Haute Chamber of Commerce e-mail blasts regarding event sent to over 2,000 business contacts
Logo on t-shirts day of event
Invite up to 2 walkers and their pet at no cost (names must be given to event coordinator by July 18)
Logo on event flyer and event brochure
Receive one yard sign with logo at park day of event

Sponsor Today

You ‘Furr’ real Care Sponsor
You care about the Terre Haute Human Society and what they do to help the animals in our community. You would like to give a:
Beagle Size Donation:
$50 _______
$100 _______
$150 _______
Great Dane Size Donation:
$200 _______
$250 _______
$300 _______

Sponsor Today

Questions?
Contact the Terre Haute Chamber of Commerce at (812) 232-2391 or visit http://www.terrehautechamber.com/.

Working off the fat!

2009-04-08T14:10:00.004-04:00

Working off the fat.
I'm trying and trying and then I stay the same and give up. Well no more! I have now a double chin and hate to smile because you can see it.

Today I've eaten..
Ham on multi-grain whole wheat with cheese
6 California rolls
Peach cup

Tonight's dinner
Shrimp quesidella

Oh and threw trying I found out I Love RAW Snow peas. They're DELICIOUS!

Walking it off
~Margarit

Margarit, Use your NICE words

2009-04-02T05:57:00.003-04:00

I keep finding out things about myself. Some are things I already new, but probably don't think are great characteristic, so I sound shocked when they are pointed out, i.e. I'm loud and a smart a$$. Not necessarily the greatest characteristic you want to put down on a resume.
However, with ever flaw (Truth teller) there is a diamond in the rough.

I just realized this morning when I have to tell someone I love the truth about something that I know will hurt them, but they need to know I cry. I get in a moral battle of do I or don't I and then they ask and as I start to speak I cry.

For example 2 years ago I told my dad he had a comb over and it needed to stop he was to handsome to let himself go on like that. Meanwhile right after I ran to the bath to ball my eyes out.

I told my bff that I was worried about her financial problems and her husbands spending, all the while why crying in her kitchen telling her "we/she" had to do something about it and probably what she already knew.

People already know there flaws, they don't need me to tell them about them, but when they ask or discuss them or I have concern over them, I respond honestly. I would want the same for me, some times with a little sugar coating if need be.
ByTheWay sugar coating is needed when you tell me I'm fat, I suck in bed, I can't cook, I suck at my job, or my husband is cheating on me.

I guess what I'm trying to say is I have a flaw I hate: it is being a truth teller, but know this if I know it's going to upset you, it upset me too, but as your friend, loved one, or wife, I'm going to tell you the truth and sit down right beside you and cry too. Isn't that what friends do???

Full of Flaws with an occasional Diamond in the rough
~ Margarit

2009-03-24T06:35:00.005-04:00

I dog ear my books like no other. Not to hold my spot like my mom does, but to hold something personal about the book that has captured me in such a way it makes since of life.

Roland Merullo has the talent to make pages dog ear like a dog waiting for his owner to take him for a walk or for his owner to come home. I thought I would share some of his work with you. Take it as you see fit.

Brian was a tall and wide-shouldered, handsome as a shirt model. He blinked twice and started to try to get us to buy drinks before we ate. I could see in his face and hear in his voice that he was the type of person who was nervous around people and pretended not to be. He'd built an elaborate personality over his nervousness. He'd developed an armor, an act, a defensive out-goingness. It was the kind of thing that made me dislike someone right away.

Isn't that the truth. We develop an act over our fears and our uneasiness, putting a coat of armor on daily.

"It's not a question of money, Ellory. Money just represents something else, n agreement to value one thing over another. Only children don't have this value put on them because children have one foot in the ocean and pay no attention. It terrifies us, this ocean. But the fear of drowning is absurd. We already are drowned."

Here a mother with Alzheimer's who once was a great doctor explains a thought in her mind. And though her mind really isn't here, I think it's one of the most brilliant statements one could make. She describes the truth of no longer being a child. At a certain time in life (it's a different age/time for each) we become a true adult. Responsibilities and money consumes us taking our feet and plugging into the ocean she describes with no preserver. It is very hard to find youth and that passion again, but I find some people with children or professions with children have the luckiest jobs ever, one I could not do (apparently I'm too grown up for my own good). They get to remember what it's like.

... His name was Peter. There was something wounded and friendly about him. We got onto the subject of children, and he told me he had three of them, two almost-grown boys and a girl. They had lived with their mother for a long time now, but everyone still got along pretty well. I asked him what he liked best about having children, and he thought for a few seconds and said, "It's the closest you can come to being the other person." And the, after another couple of seconds, "A lot of times, if you try, you can be who you really should be with them, who you want to be".

This was my favorite paragraph in this book. It made since. It explained the heart of why people have children. I always get a "don't you want a mini-me?" or "you'd be a great mom, why wouldn't you want to have kids?" But the more and more I hear it, it doesn't explain the passion the reason why. This "It's the closest you can come to being the other person." This make sense. When like at Herbie and I, I think of the wonderful quality my Herbie has inside and out. Then I think of some of my pluses and I think of all the possibilities for a child with those qualities... and I smile, shake my head, and say not to bad.

Merullo, may have just explained the key that I needed to decide if parenting is something we should do. Thank you Mr. Merullo you are gifted!

I get sentimental when I go to vote. ... I think: There's no country on earth anywhere near this good. And then, later, that it is a great country, and we have welcomed people from everywhere on earth, but that we somehow never really live up to our own grand rhetoric; that if we were half what we claimed to be, we'd long ago have cured every illness on the planet, and wouldn't have hungry kids in Kansas or the Bronx, and a million or two million people in prison. And so On. I think about the whole mad, spiritless rush we call the working week. I sink and sink.

I love voting. If I can vote, I'm there. It's my American right and I am blessed to have it. I think the America is the greatest country you can live in and if you don't think so visit our neighbors. Yes the have maybe different health care, lower prices, etc. But do they have the ability to slam their government and not get penalized? - God Bless America!

Amelia Rossi, it turned out, was one of those people that get their satisfaction in life from having guest in their house, cooking for them and watching them eat, making a fuss over them, making them happy. I remember reading that in some places, in ages past, opening your house to strangers had been considered an essential part of being human, an acknowledgment of some kind of invisible link. I like that kind of thing. I like warmth and uncalled-for kindness, the small unnoticed generosities that speckle the meanness of the world.

Amelia, is the person I hope one day I will become. (I already know a person very very similar to her). The person that says stay for dinner, even if there isn't enough. The person that calls a friend or family member when they know times are tough and ask to fill their belly's full of love. And finally the person that makes my home a familiar and friendly place to enjoy and be loved by food.

May your day be filled full of Ameilla lunches, and a foot in the sea

~ Margarit

Deliciousness Strikes Again- Thanks Elle Krieger

2009-03-13T06:12:00.007-04:00

STEAK TACOS with CUCUMBER - AVOCADO SALSA

It may take about 45min. to get this meal started and put on the table, but it's so worth the time. And if you bring out the food processor it cuts down the time to make the salsa that is really the main character of this dish and the most time consuming process. Followed closely to over ruling the power of salsa a suprising and savory flavor twist comes in cinnamon.

Please give it a whirl.

STEAK TACOS with CUCUMBER - AVOCADO SALSA

Ingredients
1 tablespoon chili powder
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
A pinch cayenne pepper
1 1/4 pound top sirloin steaks cut 1-inch thick
12 small corn tortillas (5 to 6 inches in diameter)
3 cups shredded red cabbage
1/2 cup chopped cilantro leaves
1 lime, cut into wedges
2 cups Avocado Lime Salsa, recipe follows
Directions
In a small bowl stir together chili powder, garlic, cinnamon, salt and cayenne pepper. Rub spice mixture on both sides of steaks.
Grill or broil steaks for 5 to 6 minutes on each side for medium rare, turning once. Remove from grill and let meat sit for 10 to 15 minutes. Carve into thin slices.
Warm tortillas by placing them on the grill, for about 30 seconds, turning once. Or place 6 tortillas at a time between 2 moist paper towels and microwave for 45 seconds. Wrap in cloth napkin or place in a tortilla warmer to keep warm. Place the carved steak, warm tortillas, cabbage, cilantro, lime and Avocado Lime Salsa in serving dishes and let diners make their own tacos at the table.

CUCUMBER - AVOCADO SALSA

1 large cucumber peeled, seeded and cut into chunks (about 2 cups)
2 avocados, cut into chunks
1/2 red onion, diced
2 limes, juiced (about 1/4 cup)
Salt
1/4 cup chopped cilantro leaves
2 jalapeno chiles, chopped, plus more to taste
Place cucumber, avocado and onion in a large bowl and add lime juice and salt. Add cilantro and chiles and toss gently.
Yield: 2 cups (1 serving is 1/3 cup)

Use the left over salsa (if you have any) with eggs or for dipping.

Also, I don't like cilantro so it's always omitted out of all my recipes! Oh and I don't do the cabbage, because Herbie doesn't like it, but mainly because I can't justify buying a whole cabbage for the little bit that goes into the recipe as I make a 1/2 order since there is only 2 of us.

Enjoy the YUM factor

~ Margarit ~

Ash Wednesday

2009-02-25T06:10:00.004-05:00

Welcome Lent

The 40 weekdays from Ash Wednesday until Easter observed by Christians as a season of fasting and penitence in preparation for Easter.

English Folklore: Lent Top
In the Christian calendar, this is a 40-day period of penitence and self-discipline beginning on Ash Wednesday and ending with the service on Holy Saturday which marks the start of Easter. Sundays falling within this period are not counted as part of Lent but as days of normality, or even celebration, notably Mothering Sunday. In medieval times, the rules of fasting were severe: on weekdays, meat, milk products, and eggs were all forbidden, and only one meal a day could be eaten; (I will be eating no meat today and on Fridays) marriages could not be celebrated,(Funny, I don't have ANY weddings until after Easter) and couples were expected to refrain from intercourse (Yeah, NO. It's Herbie's B-day today. Pretty sure that's not going to work); dancing and entertainment were forbidden too (Seriously I'm so thankful we've become more relaxed in the catholic faith).

After the Reformation observing Lent as a matter of personal piety persisted, in milder forms, in the High Church sections of Anglicanism. The Victorian growth of Anglo-Catholicism, and the influx of Irish immigrants, made the concept very familiar; most people now are aware that ‘giving something up for Lent’ is appropriate, even if they do not do it themselves. Also You can do something to "better yourself".

Which I have done. I will be working out 20min. 6 days a week! I will have 3-4 days off next week as I have a medical procedure that might refuse this commitment, however I have set Friday of Next week to restart no matter. It's a good thing for me to give up an unhealthy lifestyle.

I hope you enjoy the journey

WEIGH IN - 166 Original 168 (also on my period hopefully that the extra weight) Goal 138

Original bust - 37.75 now - 37.25
Belly Button - 37.00 now - 36 - Goal 32

Waist - 39.00 now - 38.25 - nice! Goal 34
Hips - 42.50 now - 42.50 - I like big butts and I cannot lie

Thigh - 21.50 now - 22 -ok it use to be back in the day much much larger
Calf - 16.25 now - 16.50 - I'm starting to wear heels for a couple reasons... this is one

Bicep - 13.25 now 13.25

backing track

2009-02-17T06:29:00.002-05:00

Well, I'm back on track. At least for today. I took a few weeks off blogging and started jotting in my calendar. After taking a look I realized more so WHY I'm not Loosing the pounds. I think with the way I've been eating I could work out 2-3x's a day and still not loose. Being a past weight watcher person, I actually do know the do's and don'ts. It just seems that I forgot the "lifestyle". I've been eating way more than I should. I wish I was at my goal weight because it seems now I've figured out how to maintain.

After much a do; I've look and realized water, workout, and food journaling may be the only way for me to succeed. Therefore you may see me with another blog or be intensely bored with my way to try to succeed with the help of the internet on this blog.

Photo's coming soon.

~Margarit~

Starting over -2009

2009-01-12T06:40:00.006-05:00

Well, I'm back. I did not fall off the earth, however there has been a lot going on. Work was swamped. Christmas has came and gone, which seemed too fast and too slow all at the same time. We left for Vegas shortly after, getting back in town 1 hour before the New Year. Luckily we know how to get loaded in a hurry! lol. From Christmas on, to just recently, I have been either run-down or sick (I'll spare you the details, except on COLD CHILLS).

Now that I'm feeling better and ready to be in 2009, I should review last year resolutions and start this years. However, I'm going to wait on this and share that with you later this week (I'm playing with ideas). Instead I'm going to give you my numbers. Keep in check with myself. I'm still struggling with the weight loss, but I think I have a plan, I think. Any how, here's what we have and why I said "STARTING OVER". Seems if you take a month off or so you get right where you started.

WEIGH IN - 166 Original ""

Original bust - 37.75 now - 37.25

Belly Button - 37.00 now - 36.25 - Happy about that!

Waist - 39.00 now - 38.75 - also somewhat pleased

Hips - 42.50 now - 42.50 - I'd love it if someone could tell me how to get rid of my A$$

Thigh - 21.50 now - 22 - UGH, WTH

Calf - 16.25 now - 16.50 - Apparently I didn't walk any this winter

Bicep - 13.25 now 13.25

See you soon with a plan of attack for 2009!
Happy New Year

~Margarit~

What we "need" and what we "desire"

2008-12-09T06:19:00.006-05:00

NEED Pronunciation: \ˈnēd\ Function: noun
Etymology: Middle English ned, from Old English nīed, nēd; akin to Old High German nōt distress, need, Old Prussian nautin need
Date: before 12th century
1: necessary duty : obligation
2 a: a lack of something requisite, desirable, or useful
b: a physiological or psychological requirement for the well-being of an organism
3: a condition requiring supply or relief
4: lack of the means of subsistence : poverty

DESIRE Pronunciation: \di-ˈzī(-ə)r, dē-\ Function: verb
Inflected Form(s): de·sired; de·sir·ing Etymology: Middle English, from Anglo-French desirer, from Latin desiderare, from de- + sider-, sidus heavenly body
Date: 13th century
1: to long or hope for : exhibit or feel desire for
2 a: to express a wish for : request
barchaic : to express a wish to : ask
3 obsolete : invite
4 archaic : to feel the loss of intransitive verb: to have or feel desire

What we need and what we desire are 2 separate things. However, very much the same.

Example 1:
I need a new car and I desire it to be reliable. You would think that it being new it would be reliable, wouldn't you? But because it's new doesn't mean it's off the showroom floor it might mean it's used but new to you. The desire is the same, regardless of where it comes from you want it to be reliable. The truth is, this example makes the word need and desire a very similar and relative to be joined together.

Example 2:
I need to have satellite/cable television to stay abreast/alive in my life. I desire to have satellite/cable television to stay abreast/alive in my life. Which is more a true statement? Do you actually need to have satellite/cable television to stay abreast / alive in your life or is that need a desire and there are underlying problems in your environment that makes you say it's a NEED vs a DESIRE? Most everyone has access to the Internet. Therefore, if your job is to watch the stock market to make sure your well being is going to exist, you still will have access to the information by Internet, omitting the need for satellite cable. I would consider this statement more of a Desire vs a Need. It's not necessary in life.

Example 3:
I need to be hugged! I desire to be hugged! If you said I need to be hugged by ... my husband, I would consider that true. If you said you desire to be hug by ... that guy over there, that could be true. The question is are hugs a need or a desire? It has been reported by FoxNews that A Hug A Day Could Save Your Life, Study finds that a hug from a loved one lowers blood pressure, triggers the release of healthy hormones, suppresses bad ones and relieves stress. Help a loved one's health by giving them a hug. As adults, that daily dose of oxytocin-laced hugging protects us from heart disease.
Do we desire hugs? Yes! But that's not really the question, it's obvious, isn't it? We need them even more! For our health, for our well being as humans.

THE POINT!

I was faced yesterday with knowledge I'd preferred not to hear about a loved one. I realized my concerns for her health was not going to change, there are deeper problem then her current bad blood test results. That no matter how much I explain to her how important she is and how much she is needed in my life, it was not going to help her or make her want to resolve this potential medical problem. I couldn't understand WHY she did not care about her health and WHY she didn't want to change it! WHY? WHY? WHY?

Then yesterday the true problem came out and the reason why she's doesn't care. I found that until the change in her marriage took place, her health is not a concern, her existence isn't either. I write this thinking that I'm telling you a made up story. That this person is not special to me and does not exist in mylife. She should be a figment, a character to tell in a story book, not friend, not a best friend! And there is nothing I can do to help. I've tossed and turned thinking about it. I can't fix it, I don't even think I can talk about it aloud. Help!

People desire to be loved, but they need it to survive. I think sometimes when you're married you think that person will always be there for you regardless. And in theory that right, that why people get married, to have that fulfillment of being loved, needed and desired. Sometime though, I think people forget (especially the longer your married) that even thought that's how it's suppose to be, it doesn't give you the right to forget about them as a person. Someone with needs and desires. Someone that probably think that you're their life and without your love they are nothing. And what really more does a person want than their true loves love in return?

Please Love, please hug, and listen to your partner. They need you more than you think!

Lots of hugs

~Margarit~

Chocolate cake LOST :'''(

2008-12-04T06:22:00.009-05:00

I'm so sadden. I was going to entitle my post today RECIPE MAADDNESS! Giving you 2 wonderful recipes I've used in the past month worth passing on. Unfortunately the recipe for my Chocolate Lava Cake is lost at this point. :'''( I have went to the vendor (KingArthurFlour) to see if I can retrieve it and have found something very similar, minus the espresso, which I've taken out of the following recipe. This recipe is quick, easy, and very very impressive!

CHOCOLATE LAVA CAKE

2/3 cup (5 ounces) bittersweet chocolate

5 tablespoons (2 1/2 ounces) unsalted butter

4 large eggs (2 whole, 2 yolks only, room temp)

1 1/2 cups (6 ounces) confectioners’ sugar

1/2 cup (2 ounces) King Arthur Unbleached All-Purpose Flour

In a saucepan set over low heat, or in the microwave, melt together the chocolate chips and butter, stirring till smooth.In a separate bowl, beat together the salt, vanilla, espresso powder (if you’re using it), eggs, and sugar, beating till smooth and creamy. Add the chocolate mixture, then the flour, stirring till smooth; the batter will be a light “hot cocoa” color.

Use vegetable oil pan spray to heavily grease 12 standard muffin papers, foil cups, or silicone cups; silicone cups will give you the best result, as they hold their shape best in the oven. Place the cups in a muffin tin. The muffin cups we used are a generous 2 1/2” across the top, and hold about 5 tablespoons of batter (a scant 1/3 cup) each.

Spoon the batter into the muffin cups, filling them nearly to the brim (about 1/8” below the rim). Place the muffin tin in the freezer and chill the cakes thoroughly; cover with plastic wrap and freeze, overnight at the minimum, or for up to 2 weeks.

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Remove one of the cakes from the freezer just before baking, set it on a cookie sheet, and bake for exactly 14 minutes. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the upper center will read 165°F or slightly higher; 165°F-170°F is the temperature at which the center will be molten, but the sides and bottom set. If you don’t have a thermometer, you should see molten batter atop the cake, at its center, just under a very thin crust; take a knife and poke, to make sure. However, the cake should also appear well-set all around the rest of the top. Remove the cake from the oven, turn it over onto a serving plate, peel off the baking cup, and slice it open. If the center is suitably oozy, place however many frozen cakes you want to bake on the cookie sheet, and bake them for 14 minutes. Remove from the oven, turn out onto serving plates, and serve immediately, with whipped cream, ice cream, and/or raspberries, and/or hot fudge sauce, if desired. Yield: 12 cakes.

The second recipe I so desire to share with you is Macaroni & Four Cheeses. YUMMY! I'd like to send this recipe out to the Cocoa & Beans. Where as Cocoa loves the good stuff like cranberries (as I do in my oats and cookies, he does in his Cheerios) he shouldn't have a problem eating mac & cheeses with squash in it.

As you all know I'm trying to loose weight (so not successfully) and I bought the new Chef of Food Network Ellie Krieger The Food you Crave. So far I've tried about a half a dozen of the items in this 307 page encyclopedia of good health. To my satisfaction I have been very pleased and given the opportunity to find out what source of vitamins I'm getting from the foods I make. Ellie is great in providing you essential nutrients for "your good Health". She also has a funny way of making the foods we crave great and sneaks in a little something called vegetables, like in mac and cheese. Give it a whirl (she leaves off the "l" is so weird)

Macaroni & Four Cheeses

Cooking spray

1 pound elbow macaroni

2 (10-ounce) packages frozen pureed winter squash

2 cups 1 percent low fat milk

4 ounces extra-sharp Cheddar, grated (about 1 1/3 cups)

2 ounces Monterrey jack cheese, grated (about 2/3 cup)

1/2 cup part-skim ricotta cheese

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon powdered mustard

1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper

2 tablespoons unseasoned bread crumbs

2 tablespoons grated Parmesan

1 teaspoon olive oil

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Coat a 9 by 13-inch baking pan with cooking spray. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook until tender but firm, about 5 to 8 minutes. Drain and transfer to a large bowl.

Meanwhile, place the frozen squash and milk into a large saucepan and cook over a low heat, stirring occasionally and breaking up the squash with a spoon until it is defrosted. Turn the heat up to medium and cook until the mixture is almost simmering, stirring occasionally. Remove the pan from heat and stir in the Cheddar, jack cheese, ricotta cheese, salt, mustard and cayenne pepper. Pour cheese mixture over the macaroni and stir to combine. Transfer the macaroni and cheese to the baking dish.

Combine bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese and oil in a small bowl. Sprinkle over the top of the macaroni and cheese. Bake for 20 minutes, then broil for 3 minutes so the top is crisp and nicely browned.

Enjoy!

Sweet Wishes,

~Margarit~

Special Saturday Thanksgiving

2008-12-01T06:06:00.002-05:00

Each year for the past 4 thanksgivings I've done some repetitious things. Including my annual Saturday thanksgiving feast (turkey day we're gambling somewhere). I've done everything from crown roast, Cornish hens, ham and chicken, and this year finally I did THE BIRD!

Isn't s/he beautiful?
I didn't even use a butterball and look how golden!

We also did our fair share of noodles, mashed red potato's with skins, dressing, hot rolls, caramelized carrots, cranberry dressing, and plenty of white wine!

For a special treat I made a souffle for dessert. I'm going to blog about that to because it was seriously impressive and only took about 20 min. to do the whole thing.

Sadly we didn't have everyone here this year due to travel, but it was a great time and much enjoyed.

I hope you all had a lovely holiday and got to spend time gobbling, goofing, and grouping together.

Best Holiday Wishes
~Margarit~

Happy Thurkey day and Black Feet day

2008-11-28T09:02:00.002-05:00

Enjoy the turkey and enjoy the shopping. I've uploaded pic's today, worked out to Zumba (that's point happy for me) and I'm off to shower and enjoy the maddness of shopping. I'll need alcohol before the day is over I'm sure.

Enjoy the season

~Sweet Wishes~
Margarit

One day of temptation rejected

2008-11-25T06:22:00.003-05:00

(tĕmp-tā́shən) - 2 definitions - The American Heritage® Dictionary

temptation (n.) The act of tempting or the condition of being tempted.
temptation (n.) Something tempting or enticing.

Yesterday was hard. I tried to get in all my water, managing getting in 2 1/2 in stead of the 3 needed.

I also tried to eat healthy... Breakfast: oats w/ cranberries, strawberry bannana yogurt w/ granola. Lunch:Beef Veggie soup, grilled cheese (this was bad) Snack: (Temptation came in; cheesecake, cookie, small rescee cup) I chose the recee cup. Dinner: Chicken, mashed potato, carrots, salad, 1 glass red wine (this helps belly fat).

Temptation is a dirty word, yet is so good. And I was / we all are faced with it daily, especially in my work atmostphere of food and fun.
I rejected these tempting items... Cheesecake (Cheesecake factory too), Cookies, second helping of mashed potatos, starbucks coffee, more cookies, a coke with my lunch. As a result of this temptation, this enticment the scales compliment me with 1lb off. (168)

Off to work out and striving to stay focused.

Finally FlickR

2008-11-24T06:57:00.001-05:00

I finally can flickr with a little help from D. Who new a password could be so easy. I mean seriously. Check out the new pictures.

3 weeks of disappointment

2008-11-24T06:22:00.006-05:00

At week 5 I was planning on taking pictures of my new sleek self. Whereas I hadn't lost a lot of weight I had toned and reduced in inches. Vacation came and has gone and it's taken me 3 weeks to get back in the grove. I've vacationed, worked earlier hours, took weekends off, stopped meal planning (or what plans we had include high cals), haven't drank water, the weather's went to COLD making comfort food a must, and finally I just gave up. I don't want to put in the time for me. As a result... UGH!!!

Check out what 3 weeks of no work-outs, no balanced meals, and no water can give you...

The Beginning W/out the goods

Bust 37 1/4 36 1/2
Belly Button 37 36 1/4
Waist 39 39
Hips 42 1/2 42 1/2
Thighs 21 1/2 22
Calf 16 1/4 16 1/2
Arms 13 1/4 13

I know this is thanksgiving week, but I'm going to try try try to get my weight down to at least the original beginning weight of 166 vs the 169 I"m faced with today.

I don't want to look like the Michelin Man eating the oreo's any more.

(thank you Michelin Man for being there for us and for the cute pictures you provide on a not so cute feeling I have.) http://www.michelinman.com/

Still going and wondering when I should take pic's

2008-10-13T06:43:00.011-04:00

It's week 5 of the Zumba challenge I've made for myself. So far I've not done to bad. I wish I was a little more motivated and would do it everyday of the week, but 3-4 times is seriously a good start.

By good starts (for me) the following have applied...

* Somewhat of a routine - 3 to 4 days of at least the 20 min express workout.

* A weekly menu for dinner, and focus for breakfast and lunch.

* Veggies consume my plate. 5-6 in the daily amount needed, if I don't get them in during the day they go on the plate at night.

* Water bottles are filled daily. My challenge is to drink the 64oz. before I drink ANYTHING else.

* I walk anywhere I can about town. It may take a little longer but it's extra exercise.

* Balance is being designed by focus and routine. Monday nights for the past 5 weeks has been a spa night. I hop in the tub, rest the muscles, prepare for the challenges of the week (with a glass of red wine; it helps fight tummy fat), and read a little just for pleasure.

To proceed to the goal at hand. (Goal: March 12 2009, -20lbs = 145lbs)

* Continue to plan meals, Saturdays seem to work better for me so that will be the day I should plan

* Make meals in advance when rough long weeks are foreseen. If I'm going to have to work late, maybe I should put in a crock pot meal that day to prevent overeating or unhealthy quick fixes.

* Try to work out 5 times a week.

* Look into doing something other than Zumba to help tone and build.

* Don't give up and keep the end goal in mind.

I've also realize this is week 5 and the weight loss is not nearly where I want to be. But the inches are not all that bad. I'm in question as to for the 6 week do I take pictures or do I take them at the end of the week 6, start of week 7, to see if there are any physical results to see. My concern is that I won't see much/any difference and stop all together. What should I do ?

MY New Measurements...

Bust 36 Total Loss 1 1/4

Belly Button 35 1/2 Total Loss 21/2

Waist 37 3/4 Total Loss 2

Hips 41 3/4 Total Loss 3/4

Thigh 21 3/4 Total Loss -1/4

Calf 16 1/4 Total Loss 0

Arms 13 1/4 Total Loss 0

My Week 5 Weight .... 165.8

Beginning of the week 166.2

Mid week 165.4

NOW 165.8

Total Loss 6oz

Holy Sweat Balls

2008-10-08T06:56:00.002-04:00

I just did Zumba LIVE. OMG! I loved it and have finally gotten most of the steps down. There are still about 5 I'm just a little shaky on. Mainly because I can't relax and I keep thinking about my lack of rhythm.

40 min. of non-stop sweat and excitement. It might actually be my favorite video of theirs yet. I'm thinking about purchasing the other 2or3 videos they originally offered me when I bought my box set. Maybe in December when I've saved a little cash!

Ya

Have a great day
~Margarit~

Balancing Act

2008-10-07T06:33:00.002-04:00

I'm on my way to balance.
Last night I got the house complete minus a few things that need pressed. I took a long hot bath :D and read my new book I bought yesterday... Jennifer Weiner Certain Girls. This book is sure to help me find balance in relaxation and girlhood.
I also purchased another book from Ellie Krieger The Foods You Crave. This will help me find balance in food. I plan to look over it this morning and use it for either this weeks food menu or next depending on what I have in stock.

Finally I didn't do Zumba last night. I was too exhausted by the time I got off work and finished up the house. I decided to make up for it I would do double duty this morning.

I DID!
1. 20 MIN Express workout
1. 20 MIN Flat Abs

I also took points yesterday and ate fairly healthy. Dinner was so good I had seconds (BAD MARGARIT!)

Today's menu...
B- Oatmeal and fruit
L- Broccoli Cheddar soup, large salad
D- Steak with Red Eye Chili Gravy (I'll apply that recipe soon it's awesome) Green beans, New Potato, cottage cheese, possible side salad

See you soon
~Margarit~

Finding Balance

2008-10-06T06:08:00.006-04:00

This past week has been such an disappointment. I've realized I've lost balance in my life. I'm not sure where the turn came or at which point, maybe from girls weekend, the fall season, the bad reviews from clients at work, the loss of my grandma from last year (a big factor), or my exhaustion. Which the combination of each could make a person feel lost. All I do know is I don't feel like myself. And am doubting much a the decision I have been making.

I'm going to redirect focus, this week. Is all about me and trying to find the balance necessary to make the lack of focus and direction go away!

I need a routine!

The stratgey.
Mon- schedules meals & count points. Finish house work so it's done. Do evening Zumba. Relax
Tues- Zumba, work, scheduled meals, relax
Wed- Zumba, work, scheduled meals, relax
Thurs- Zumba, work, scheduled meals, relax
Fri- Zumba, work, scheduled meals, possible dinner out, relax
Sat- zumba, schedule meals, groceries, start laundry, get ready for girls :) bonfire or pumpkin carving, relax
Sun- Zumba, Scheduled meals, a ride with Annie, FOOTBALL, dinner guest, relax

Notice all include: Zumba, Scheduled Meals, & RELAX

Also, with all the work these days I need a day off. Not a weekend but day! I'm going to request Tuesday or Thursday off. On this day. I'm going to work out, I'm going to eat right, but I'm also going to spoil myself. I'm going to try to get a message, my hair done, possibly my feet, and maybe a little shopping. I'm just going to enjoy!

Week 4 Measurements...

Bust 36 1/2 this week

Belly Button 35 this week 36

Waist 37 1/2 this week 37 1/2

Hips 42 this week 41 3/4

Thigh 22 this week 21 3/4

Calf 16 1/4 this week

Arms 13 1/3 this week

My Weight

Begining of the week 166 Mid week 165.8

NOW 166.2

Rhythmically challenged, LBs Gained :(

2008-09-29T07:15:00.006-04:00

Today was the first day I got to try my Zumba Tone & Sculpt. I haven't used it becasue it wasn't compatiable with my dvd player. Then it came to me to try the computer. My monitor is MUCH smaller in here, but the dance floor space rocks!

However, that being said I found with this video it could become very discouraging for me. It's a little to fast for my rhythmically challenged body. I've decided to continue to do it in hopes to get better with the rhythm and just keep moving. All workout videos, dance video's, etc. etc. always say keep moving. Even if you can't get it right away, don't stop, keep moving. I'm focused and I can do this. Heck I even tried on close this weekend and could get into a small top again. (10yrs ago I could ware a small and look good). I ended up not buying the top or the bottoms knowing I'm focused and I want to do this for myself. I deserve to this for myself.

Focusing on the pounds. This weekend I traveled a 2 hour drive in the car. Those drives tend to make me a little heavier in the morning. I also spent the weekend with my GWO's and well we like to eat, but when I weighed my self there I was down 2 extra lbs from mid week, with clothes on. I also promoted the product by showing the Girls what fun it is. They were impressed with my new skill, what little rhythm I've gained.

That being said, I might not sure this is my "real weight" but I have to write it down and accept. I plan to weigh tomorrow to see if I've really gained from last week or it this is what I like to call "travel weight".

The Truth
This week I was a little less focused than last. I didn't write down what I ate. Which is a no no! And I didn't workout like I should have. I know it and If the weight gain is real I cannot blam anyone but myself for the lack of effort. This week will be different. I'm already a step ahead of the game with 32oz's in and menu's planned.

Week 3 Measurements...
Bust 36 1/2 this week "" Total Loss 1 1/4
Belly Button 35 1/2 this week 35 Total Loss 2
Waist 37 3/4 this week 37 1/2 (goal is 29 or 30) Total Loss 1 1/4
Hips 42 this week "" Total Loss 1/2
Thigh 22 this week "" Total Loss 1/2
Calf 16 1/4 this week "" Total Loss 0
Arms 13 1/3 this week "" Total Loss 1/3

My Weight
Begining of the week 164.6
Mid week 163.8
Saturday 162 with close on
NOW 166

Week 2- down 2.4lbs & more inches

2008-09-22T06:04:00.005-04:00

This is week 2 of Zumba and week 2 of eating healthy.

What I've done on the physical side...

I've done Zumba everyday except Wednesday and Saturday. So I guess you could say I'm working out 5 times a week, at least this first few weeks. I've tried very hard to work extra on the areas that didn't show much change or any change, i.e. my booty! So when there was a lunge I'd squeeze the goods.

What I've done on the eating healthy side...

While I learned some healthy skills from grade school, I thought since it's been about 20yrs since I've been in elementary I should hit the books. Bring back out the weight watchers (where I lost my first 40lbs back in the day) and following a points plan. I've also looked over Indiana health watch provide by My Man Mitch! Working towards the goal for breakfast 1 fruit for lunch 2 fruits or veggies, and for dinner the rest 3-4. And sometimes it's hard to get in what's called a "proportions" but it OK I figure some is better than none right.

I've also bought a new plate! Yes it's silly but true. It might just lead me in the right direction on staying within my proportions. The way to use the plate.... The large pink flower is my guide for my meats. It's right around a 3-4oz piece of meat which is all you need to take in. The green round swirl is my veggies, hence the green. And finally the darker pink daisy is for my sauce, weather it be bar-b-q or sour cream, even salsa, that's what I get and what I need to work with. This plate is about 1/4 the size of my normal plate and has a circle ridge in the middle where I try to keep all my food within. And of course 3 16oz waters.

MY New Measurements...

Bust 37 this week 36 1/2 Total Loss 1 1/4

Belly Button 36 3/4 this week 35 1/2 Total Loss 1 1/2

Waist 38 3/4 this week 37 3/4 (goal is 29 or 30) Total Loss 1

Hips 42 1/2 this week 42 (down 1/2 from week 1&2) Total Loss 1/2

Thigh 22 3/8 this week 22 Total Loss 1/2

Calf 16 1/4 this week "" Total Loss 0

Arms 13 1/3 this week "" Total Loss 1/3

My Weight 2 weight .... 164.6

Begining of the week 167

Mid week 163

NOW 164.6
Total Loss 2lb 6oz this week

See you next week, if not sooner!

ZUMBA MAD!!!

2008-09-15T07:07:00.004-04:00

I'm seriously still pumped! I'm working very hard to stay positive through workouts and eating. I spoke to one of the GWO's this weekend and told I can't wait to show her the video! They're totally dance freaks and are going to LOVE this.

I took down my measurements and weight last Monday and I did it again this Monday. You're not going to believe it. OK maybe you will but I couldn't. Just to let you know though I do not consider the weight accurate for multiple reason but the main is the 3 day weekend of partying I was involved in. I tried to be good but yesterday when mom brought over Swiss Steak (red sauce) like grandma use to make, well it was totally down hill. :( So worth the memories and tears though. However 3 days into it I was down 2 lbs! If I could have just focused I'd been down maybe 3 or 4.

Drum Roll Please

Bust 37 3/4 this week 37

Belly Button 37 this week 36 3/4

Waist 39 this week 38 3/4

Hip 42 1/2 ""

Thighs 22 1/2 this week 22 3/8

Calf 16 1/4 ""

Arms 13 1/4 this week 2 marks below the 1/4th

and the weight....

166

Midweek

164

Now

167

Rough weekend for weight, but I thought it was amazing results for measurements. I couldn't believe I was nearly down in all areas. I know what I need to do to get the bottom to go down but it's going to take a little time to be able to get down that low in the Zumba dance activity. I'm going to continue to focus this week and try to maybe do a little something extra for the booty. Don't worry I'll keep you all up to date!

Happy ZUMBA

ZUMBA- Viewer discretion required... Bad Photos Ahead

2008-09-10T09:30:00.004-04:00

I'm fat, actually I am, and it's unhealthy and I'm trying to help myself out.

Here in the big TH I've heard nothing but positive things about Zumba. It a fun work out with HOT INTERNATIONAL DANCE Steps. It's amazing! I've learned some salsa, reggae, merengue, and samba. I also have NO RHYTHM and am getting the hang of it with just 3 days into it. I feel amazing! I feel sexy, yes that's right sexy, while I'm working out. Another great thing about this video is the motivation it gives you. I don't know how but it does. You also get to drink water like no other because of all the SWEAT! It's great fun.

I've taken some before photos. Now I've done this with other workout videos and other "weight loss plans", but this time I'm so convinced I'm headed in the right direction I'm going to post them.

VIEWER DISCRETION REQUIRED

NEW JOB!!!!!!!!

2008-08-28T06:53:00.006-04:00

As you know I've made these goals for 2008. I'm starting to get to the point where I'm really following through. I'm so proud of myself I think I'm going to in 2009 do the very same thing and continue to re-evaluate.

1. Lose 30lbs by June 6th (my 29th birthday) -I'm totally sucking at this. If anything I think I've gained. This is NOT good. I dropped out of Weight Watchers, because I never went to meetings and I really wasn't following the program like I should have. Actions I'm taking to get this complete.... hmm Today I'm calling local gyms and dance classes. I'm going to figure out some activity I can make myself do and have fun with it. I'm also going to attach a pedometer to my hip and make it happen! I NEED THIS to happen! Look I'm like a big fat hippo coming out of the water. I look terrible in a suit

2. Manage to read 1 new book a month (I've already finished B. Letts ; Shoot the moon) - I've done a lot better than I thought on this. I've managed to get 6/8 done. Not bad considering that it takes me about an hour a chapter. I think if I do this next year though I might read non-fiction instead. I need to open up my brain again.

3. Think of myself as important - I'm finding this to be much harder these days. I was doing really well and thinking of myself as important then all of a sudden it seemed that I realized I'm just me. No one overly special, but someone with skills and determination. Then I realized I've got this one covered. I'm important to me, my husband, and my family. Really that's all that matters. I dont' know who I was trying to impress with this one.

4. Go to a movie once a month and have a Me Day. I'd almost like to do this a little more. Like twice. Once by myself and once with friends. I have however started to get my nails done, but popped them all off after a rough weekend. I'm going to get them put back on in September.

5. Buy the following items...
Property on Pine Island Fl. -Still a No, but we decided to really take the time on this decision. We're planning a trip in the fall to go and really spend some time down there and decide if that is where we want to possibly be located.
A Cheap Sports Car - I went a few weekends ago to drive a 2006 pontiac solstice. God those are beautiful cars. It was a great deal but I started to weigh my options and also had a few girls back me on making the right decision. NO, there was way more stuff that I needed in life right now than a new sports car. I'm sad I didn't take the opportunity, but it will pay off in the end.

New back door to the house Well this didn't happen but it's going to asap. I'm calling in a contractor to do it asap. I'm hoping the end of September. If he bails I'll make another call to get it done.
New Nice Digital Camera - I finally made the purchase. We were on our way to St. Thomas and I didn't want to miss anything. Plus I had a gift of 250 so I knew I could play with that money and get me something nice.
6.Reword and toot my horn in my resume & Look for and start a new job - This is awesome. I took the interview with Coca-Cola. I was really hoping to get the job, because I knew it would give me the opportunity to be able to move and still have a job. Ended up that I wasn't right for them, but only after "My Dream Job" called. Two years ago I applied for a part time possision as an event coordinator. It was only part time so I knew I was going to have to keep my job, but I wanted to give it a try. I've been dreaming of starting my own company and becoming an event coordinator but doing this would give me an opportunity to test the water. Any way after 2 years and a flight back home I got a voice mail to see if I was still intrested in the job. I about pissed my pants if you want to know the truth. I didn't want to delay. I ended up calling them on a Saturday when he called me and by Sunday I had an interview. Then another on Tuesday and finally an offer. It was a pretty good offer and it provided insurance and now was a full time position. I couldn't refuse and the big part was I had to tell my parents now that I've accepted a new position elsewhere. That was terrible, but after the building threw me a welcome party and they came along, they understood I had found my match! Check it out http://www.theohiobuilding.com/

7. Travel to a new place with my Dear Hubby - We ended up going to St. Thomas and St. John, the US Virgin Islands. It was amazing. I'd totally can't wait to go back and I'll be staying a little longer this time and hopefully have some climbing shoes on.

8. Put in a deck between house and garage Unfortunately this is put on hold again :( However, it was discussed and we are going to install a new roof and stucko our house before we do this. It will really bring the house together I think. And were going to start doing a little bit of up keep this weekend on the inside too, i.e. finally paint the living room.

9. Start taking pictures and blogging more - Obviously this hasn't worked out well, but I have a feeling with the new camera it might.

10. Go to church more that holidays - I have yet to go to church this year. I keep thinking about it but then decide on other things. I'm just not sure what to do on this one. I do say my bed time prayers though. That's a good start I imagine, right?

Bunny, SweetPea, Pea pie, Punky, Little One, Bambeano

2008-04-10T17:44:00.005-04:00

These are all the names I've heard people call their little babies. I turn left, I turn right, I look dead on straight in front of me, even behind me and I find a pregnant woman staring back. It's like a plague for me right now (not necessarily a bad one, just always on the brain) Some of these women are babies themselves (teenage), some are on their second, and some are new. With this plague of pregnancy surrounding me, I find myself wondering what if ... what if I never had a child?

Don't get me wrong. I LOVE them. I enjoy playing, burping, and dressing them just as much as the next Chicky, But what if I'm never ready?

Today I was honored with a phone call from a friend telling me she's expecting her first. I was so thrilled I nearly cried (which I often do when hearing someone close to me is getting ready to give the greatest gift... Life! Why wouldn't anyone be over joyed by the sheer though?). Then as I'm getting all the details, that question immediately comes in my head (ruining the moment)... Can I do it? Do I really want to grow up? Are "We" ready?

Again this is on my mind at least once a day and I've started talking apparently aloud, instead of in my own imaginary world, getting answers all the time from different people, saying the exact same. You can do it, Look at me I'm doing it. Or You don't really have to grow up anymore than you are, you just have to change your priorities. Finally the favorite is ... YOU'LL NEVER BE READY! YOU JUST HAVE TO DO IT AND STOP TRYING TO PUT IT IN PRO'S & CON'S... The CONS will ALWAYS WIN!

I guess I'm just afraid. Mostly about my marriage. I'm new at this whole marriage/commitment idea. I do well at it, I think, but still I just don't want to screw it up. I've never had such a giving wonderful relationship as I do now. I don't want to loose what I have.

Here lately though, I feel as if I'm faced with a challenge. Probably just some crazy concoction I've generated in my delusional female mind, but nevertheless, it's there... What if I decide I never want to have children? or I decide I'm just not ready and I wait to long to say yes and I loose everything? I'm so afraid of all this and I'm sure I'm over reacting to a delusion. The changes of having an addition to our family of 2 and the possibility of waiting to long and losing everything I've come to love treasure so dearly.

Please God, let me stop being so afraid of what life has to offer. Help me be strong, help me to find the courage and the might to make the right decisions for me.

How am I doing?

2008-04-04T09:24:00.004-04:00

Everyone makes goals, right? Well at least New Years Resolutions, right? OK maybe I'm still the only one that does that. Here's something new though that I have not done as far as making those resolutions... follow threw and follow up throughout the year. I've decided today I'm going to do that quarterly, see how I stand.

TOP 10 Goals of 2008
(no specific order)
1. Lose 30lbs by June 6th (my 29th birthday) - I've lost 5, so I'm not doing so hot in this area. The goal still is to be at 145 by June 6th. That's 9lbs in month April and May. Maybe I should just never eat. That will work won't it? Plus this begal kick I'm on is not helping. Damn Bread!
2. Manage to read 1 new book a month (I've already finished B. Letts ; Shoot the moon) - This I've found has been the most easy challenge for me. I've gotten 3 books done in 3 months. I think I'm stellar! Sad thing is I know people that can read a good sized book in less than 3 days, Oh well I'm trying.
3. Think of myself as important - I'm trying, but I don't want to end up cocky so I'm not trying that hard :(
4. Go to a movie once a month and have a Me Day (I'm scheduled for one on Thurs the 24th or 31st... hair, feet, dinner, shopping, & Either 27 dress or Ps I Love you) - I have been a little better at this, thanks to Girls Weekend. But I don't get my hair cut, nails done, or messages, too much money right now. I have watched 3 new movies and have given them my Ebert Star rating if you care to check it out.
5. Buy the following items... Property on Pine Island Fl. - Nope, We are looking but we've decided to invest our money elsewhere for the time being. The property market has taken a crash and the location we were looking at has went down 25% since January. With the recession on the rise we think we should hold off just a little longer and make a purchase later in the year or next April. A Cheap Sports Car - My mom has talked about selling her Matias but has finally said no. That was going to be a birthday purchase but it's to small for My Giant and I to ride in if it starts to rain. new back door to the house, Actually this may happen later this month. I'm truly happy about it. If however it doesn't happen this month it will happen by this fall no matter what I have to do! New Nice Digital Camera - I don't desire this as much as I did earlier on in the year. I'd still like to have one don't get me wrong, but it's not on the top of my priority list.
6.Reword and toot my horn in my resume & Look for and start a new job - Thanks to the help of "my girls" I've reworded and maid me sound like a

Super Star

In fact I even got a job interview and finally got the nerve to tell my boss I plan to leave and so on.
7. Travel to a new place with my Dear Hubby - We're going to go to Florida next week and we plan to scout out some new places... Does that count?
8. Put in a deck between house and garage - Finally this is scheduled for the June. It's my birthday gift I've requested. I think the whole family is going to come over one weekend and put it together. I can't wait. Hopefully we'll have enough saved up to screen it in, then we can sleep outside sometimes
9. Start taking pictures and blogging more - Well I had a lapse here, but I'm trying to get back in the grove of it
10. Go to church more that holidays - I'm failing miserable at this one. Unless, you can watching Joel Osteen on TV on Friday Nights. Gosh I love watching him. I think I might even read one of his books

Highly Natural

2008-04-03T11:14:00.003-04:00

I get these e-mails every now and then which we've all seen ... Natural Highs. I thought this week I would give everyone the opportunity to see/read something and want to close your eyes and visualize the warmth and relaxation of the idea. See what you think. I hope it works for you like it does for me...

Falling in love
Laughing so hard your face hurts or you almost pee your pants
A hot shower
No lines at the supermarket or at the deli
A special glance
Getting mail or a letter for nothing particular but a Hi
Taking a drive on a pretty road
Hearing your favorite song on the radio
Lying in bed listening to the rain outside
Hot towels fresh out of the dryer
Chocolate milkshake (vanilla or strawberry)
A bubble bath, especially one you don't have to draw yourself
Giggling, little kid giggles are the best
A good conversation in a coffee shop to a stranger
The beach and the sand between you toe
Finding a 20 dollar bill in your coat from last winter
Laughing at yourself
Looking into their eyes and knowing they Love you
Midnight phone calls that last for hours
Running through sprinklers
Laughing for absolutely no reason at all
Having someone tell you that you're beautiful
Laughing at an inside joke with FRIENDS
Getting a "special" photo session from a friend
Accidentally overhearing someone say something nice about you
Waking up and realizing you still have a few hours left to sleep
Your first kiss (the very first)
Making new friends or spending time with old ones
Playing with a new puppy
Having someone play with your hair
Sweet dreams
Hot chocolate on a cold day
Road trips with friends
Swinging on swings
Day dreaming about the future
Making eye contact with a cute stranger and holding it for 5 seconds
Making chocolate chip cookies
Having your friends send you homemade cookies
Holding hands with someone you care about
A picnic inside because it's raining far to hard outside
Running into an old friend and realizing that some things (good or bad) never change
Watching the expression on someones face as they open a much desired present from you
Watching the sunrise
Getting out of bed every morning and being grateful for another beautiful day
Knowing that somebody misses you
Getting a hug from someone you care about deeply - 9 are needed daily
Knowing you've done the right thing, no matter what other people think
Surviving cancer
Finding a pair of shoes that are in your size and on sale
Fresh flowers
Carving pumpkins with friends
Finding the perfect recipe to share - Bri's Granola
Getting out of bed after a rough evening and not hurting
Roller skating to PUSH IT
Chocolate / Vanilla Swirl Ice Cream Cone
The Shoe Fairy stopping by with hidden shoes throughout your house
A perfect sun set
Flying a kite for more than a min.
Play with play dough
Smelling fresh coffee brewing
Not cutting yourself when making dinner
Losing weight and not even trying
Finding the perfect shade of ... lipstick, hair color, eyeshadow, or nail polish
Making the perfect Margarita ... and getting to share it

Spring-a-ling ling

2008-04-02T14:52:00.010-04:00

I can help but day dream today, it's actually sunny for once. No rain! I can only think about my future my offer now that it is "spring". What will spring bring? What projects can I plan for this summer for outside? How much money do I have to do all this?

Well the only thing I can do is day dream and find pictures of things I would like to imagine being mine. This year our major summer project will be for my birthday (yay me) we're going to build a deck between my house and garage. Possibly in the front too, but again money will be a factor...

So let's pretend money is no object, put yourself in an Midwestern back yard of the good ole USofA, grab a glass of sun-made Iced Tea with lemon, some fresh cut veggies, and finally a good conversation... about nothing.

Now lets imagine this is what you'll be sitting in or on...

And now picture this as your view...

DAMN!

Life is good :)

Lost in February

2008-02-21T12:58:00.005-05:00

I know you've been wondering where I've been... Ok probably not really, but ya know since you're here you might as well wonder. February has started out with a B A N G. One thing after another, all of which I want to write about and tell you. Just to let you know LOTS of PARTYING is going down dawg (too much American Idol already).
I'll keep the post coming in the next few days to tell you about...

BB KING - the most coolest blues man ever to sit on stage

GWO (Girl Weekend Out) - 3 of my best friends come from Chicago Il, Lafayette In., and Columbus Oh, just to crash at my house and drink wine, eat food, talk girl talk, pose in sext poses, and best of all be part of each others lives.

Work- the lack there of and the suckulation it's doing to me, creating drunken remorse

Family - babies, marriage and whatever in a week, creating druken remorse

Turning 30- My hubby's gonna make the big 30 and his P'd off about it.

Weight Watchers- Oh yeah I'm on a mission. Only 23 lbs to go:D

I'll see you later to tell you all about BB King and his girl Lucial

TGIF

2008-01-25T13:02:00.000-05:00

Thank God It's Friday! And I even get to leave work early so I have time to go and get groceries and other stuff done so tomorrow I'm free to ROCK. Sit like a rock in front of the fireplace that is. It's -1 here and temps are suppose to fall even more tonight :( Annie loves going out to play though but I totally can't handle it. I'm weak. I need the Florida SUN!!!!
I'm planning to have a fun evening on Saturday, so I hope people can make it. I'll take some snap shots of my event. Also, I've got a book to finish, some to pick up, and a menu to plan for weight loss.
Have a great weekend my blogger friend

BFF's

2008-01-22T16:00:00.001-05:00

Annie got a pleasant surprise today.... Sneaker's her dog Aunt and BFF came to visit work. Her work day has gone so much smoother now that she's not the only one under my desk. They've played in the snow, barked at company, and eaten anything anyone has had to offer. However my desk is very hard to get to as I can't swing under there. Such sacrifices for our furry friends.

I know Annie will sleep well tonight and the cats will appreciate that fact they'll be ignored.

Seasoning 1 = Caribbean Jerk

2008-01-22T08:22:00.000-05:00

Ok so I have a recipe that I Heart for Caribbean Jerk Seasoning. It is seriously my favorite! It comes from Paula Deans Magazine. I looked at the ending results,

saw what was in it ....

2 pounds pork tenderloin
1/2 cup light soy sauce
1/4 cup olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Dora's Jerk Seasoning - I use McCormmick Caribbean Jerk
Special equipment: 2 dozen (10-inch) wooden skewers soaked in water for 20 minutes, then drained well.

and I was Hooked!

I tend to use what ever meat I have on hand... Pork, beef, and mainly chicken. I've just starting using shrimp, but I marinate it for a shorter time. I put it all together in the morning and in the evening add it to skewers with my favorite veggies and a side of rice. This origianal recipe calls for a dipping sauce too but to tell you the truth, I'm afraid to use it for it might ruin the flavor.

Cut tenderloin in half crosswise. Cut each half lengthwise into 4-inch thin strips. Place pork in a heavy duty re-sealable plastic bag.

In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, olive oil, garlic, and jerk seasoning. Pour over pork. Seal bag, and marinate pork in refrigerator, 1 hour.

Turn on broiler.

When ready to cook the pork, line a broiler pan with aluminum foil. Lightly grease rack and place on pan. Remove pork from bag; discard marinade.

Thread pork onto skewers in an "s" shape. Place skewers in a single layer on a prepared pan.

Broil 5 inches from heat for 8 minutes, turning once. Serve warm with Caribbean Dipping Sauce.

Dora's Jerk Seasoning: 1 tablespoon kosher salt 1 teaspoon ground allspice 1 teaspoon brown sugar 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon onion powder 1/2 teaspoon dried, crushed Scotch bonnet pepper 1/2 teaspoon paprika 1/2 teaspoon dried chives 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
Combine all ingredients in a bowl until well mixed. Store in an airtight container.
Yield: 1/2 cup

http://www.foodnetwork.com/food/recipes/recipe/0,,FOOD_9936_104812,00.html

What to do on Sundays????

2008-01-21T11:30:00.001-05:00

It's that time again. The time where Sunday's become boring and we have to wait another 8 months for the excitement to begin. Football is coming to a close :( Our team went out sooner than we'd like (Indianapolis COLTS) Last nights game, I assumed New England Patriots would win without any trouble. Which they didn't all that much. Then there were The PACKER and The GIANTS. As I love Payton's little brother, Eli, I thought for sure the Packers would send the Giants packing (pun intended). Never-the-less Super Bowl Sunday will be on February 10th and football will be finish until next season.

I remember waking up one morning and my lovely hubby rolled over to spoon me. He kissed me on my check and whispered in my ear (something to the effect of) Um only 4 hrs and 15 min till pre-game. The world is right again. I giggled and kissed him to agree.

Before I meet my dear husband I watched football during the Superbowl mainly and only for commercials. After a few Super Bowl's I started to watch the Colts and enjoyed them. I decided that would "be my team", and I'd start to watch more regularly. As the years passed I've found out what it is to be a fan. You know who #18 is Peyton Manning - QB. You find and know their records in a season. You find the rookie #29 Joseph Addai - RB is not only Awesome to watch, but had no idea that the season would be that hard.

As a "fan" you know when your team is out of the playoffs that you want the team that beat you to win against the team in the upcoming game. And you find out that watching the last playoff game makes you sad and heartbroken to see the season gone. Your Sundays are totally ruined and the friends you invite in every weekend will not be coming back until next season, and chance are they might not even be on the same team. :**(

So I say What will become of our Sundays? Maybe I'll buy a puzzle for us to do.

The Spice Challenge

2008-01-15T18:51:00.000-05:00

I've decided to have a spice challenge. And I'm not talking about the come back of The Spice Girls. Every time I prepare dinner I look in my trust spice rack to see what I can add... garlic, season salt, Italian seasoning, salt and pepper. They are my main spices.

Then I ask the DH to grill a steak and season it/marinate before he starts to cook it. As he opens the cabinet the anticipation of dreaded words come... What the heck do you do with all these spices?????? You are BAND from buying any more. I'm sure we can make do with what we have. (Sad truth is I was wanting to buy some Caribbean Jerk Seasoning this weekend.) But in his defense I have an organized shelf that is over flowing with a potential to bop you in the head if shifted just right.

So I declare a spice war. I have 20+ spices in my cabinet and each week for the next 20 or so I plan to use each one of them and share the recipe of the spice. I'd like to use them at every dinner setting, but I'm not sure this is possible. Either way prepare yourself for new ways, I hope, to use your over abundances of spice. If you have any spice war help recipes let me know.

Think Spicy!

Confession of a Cat Killer :' - (

2008-01-11T08:43:00.000-05:00

These are our cats. Smokey is the Grey long hair and his partner in crime is Bandit, ElNee-gro. Finally they have a back-up cougar named Skeeter, she's in back.

I'm telling you this because last night I created a disaster of an evening for myself. What was suppose to be a night of stuffed mushrooms, wine, chick flicks, and an evening home alone while the Hubby was out was ruined. Ruined however but not fatal!

The mushrooms were stuffed and thrown over pasta, beer became the beverage. The heat had to be turned off because we apparently have a leak in our propane tank. Highly dangerous by the way! And finally the chick flicks we put on hold 3/4ths of the way due to an allergic and deadly reaction I created for my loving cats.

I hate to say this but.... we have flea's. Not the kind where when you walk in the house and they greet you by taking a multiple chunks out. But the type that gnaws on the cats and dog, making them itchy. On Wednesday night I noticed one on Smokey's face. I tried grabbing it and decided later that evening to put "over the counter" flea medicine on them. It was for small dogs. I've done this before using medicine from the clinic and you split it amongst the 3 cats.

I also decided last night to give them a pill called Capstar that goes threw their blood line to kill the eggs and whatever bites on them. Last night while watching my chick flick I kept hearing Smokey pound his back leg sporadically. Sometimes he does this but after about 20 min or so I started to notice it wasn't just his weird little twitch. Then Bandit was laying beside me on the couch I noticed he was trembling. After seeing the two doing this I decided that the pills were the cause and they were having an allergic reaction. Luckily I have a pre-Vet in the family.

I called Vet Carmine. I told her what was going on and she explained that it was not the pills but the flea medicine I used. She explained that I needed to bath them immediately! All 3 of them! I asked probably in a not so nice voice asked How the hell do you expect me to wash 1 cat let alone 3??? Have you ever washed a cat??? Needless to say she asked a few more questions and requested to meet me at the clinic where they would be getting I.V. 's in order to help them.

Needless to say after an hour. Smokey got his arm shaved, stuck with a needle, bleed, growled, got in to the sink for a bath and ended up with a pill and NO IV :D The other cats also go a fresh water dip and a pill. I didn't kill them!!! YAY for ME!!! It seems though I caught it in time before it could have became a deadly situation. I have to continue to give them this medicine every 8-12 hours and monitor them. IF For ANY reason it gets worse they will have to go back in and get iv'd :'(

I felt so awful! I'm such a terrible mother. Vet Carmine said I was not a terrible mother and it is a very common problem. She also explained the difference in flea meds and basically said to stick with FrontLine or Advantage. From now on they will ONLY have those brands of flea medicine.

Meow out!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!! 2008 is the Year of the Goal

2008-01-08T12:18:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year everybody. I hope everyone enjoyed the start of this year. I know I did. Dear Hubby and I went for a drive to Pine Island. Pine Island is down just west the way from sunny Fort Myers Florida. (we were on vacation) We spent most of the day in the rain (the sun was busy) checking out the island and imagine our future together (can we say priceless?).

We later that afternoon visited one of maybe 7 resturants on the island called Woody's. I hate the name but I LOVED the corn chowder they made up. We had a few beers, ate some good grub, checked out the island people and then we were off. Off to our room in Ft. Myers. We spent the afternoon being lazy and snuggling off the rain with pizza and pepsi at our sides. Surprisingly we didn't have any "drinks" that evening. Most of the evening was spent watch national geographic or discovery, not sure which, but it was about fishing in different parts of the world. Do you know to catch catfish people jump on the side of river banks and put there arm in all the muck until they get the fish to hook onto their arm. YUCK! And I even like eatting them. Maybe I'll change that for 2008.

Speaking of changes for 2008, I've decided this is the year of Goals. Last year "our" major goal for '07 was to become debt free. And by that goal we set together we establishing be free of worry. At least for now.
Goals set for 2008 are now more personal and maybe some carried over from 2007. Either because I didn't make it or because I enjoyed the challenge so much I want to do it again.

TOP 10 Goals of 2008

(no specific order)

1. Lose 30lbs by June 6th (my 29th birthday)

2. Manage to read 1 new book a month (I've already finished B. Letts ; Shoot the moon)

3. Think of myself as important

4. Go to a movie once a month and have a Me Day (I'm scheduled for one on thurs the 24th or 31st... hair, feet, dinner, shopping, & Either 27 dress or Ps I Love you)

5. Buy the following items... Property on Pine Island Fl. , a cheap sports car, new back door to the house, new nice digital camera

6.Reword and toot my horn in my resume & Look for and start a new job

7. Travel to a new place with my Dear Hubby

8. Put in a deck between house and garage

9. Start taking pictures and blogging more

10. Go to church more that holidays

I'm looking foward to trying to accompolish more this year and to make my self more important. Happy New Year. I hope this year is a rewarding if not more than the last.

want to move?

2007-12-11T14:55:00.001-05:00

You ever get to that point where you want to move? I've found 3 houses under 200K in Florida. Each have 2 beds & 2 baths and a pool with a bird cage. Just in case you don't know what a bird cage is, it's a screened in area that surrounds your pool.

These are a couple I'm looking at

185K
169K
219K

Now these are the ones over 200K, but with the same amenities if not an extra bed and bath

339.9k
299.9k
279.9k
285K

These last 3 are my favorite! I really love the 299K you aught to see the kitchen! WOW! Moving is really not an option I guess today, but it's definitely in the plans

Christmas in the Caribbean

2007-12-11T08:10:00.001-05:00

Each year I try very hard to make my extra busy husband (this time of year) enjoy the Christmas spirit that pours out of me directly after thanksgiving. This year was worse, do to the fact I found my Christmas CD early and started the musical celebration the second week of November. Of course baking is year round but now the kitchen ends up being a hazard zone until the day after Christmas.

Sometimes it easy to make him ecstatic. In my case power tools do help. This year I've started the celebration with a different place for our large tree and our small one. The theme (because it's so easy for success when there is a "theme")

CHRISTMAS IN THE CARIBBEAN.

I've made the living room a tropical get away. Our tree decorated with pink flamingos, sea shells, tropical flowers, fishnet skirting. Jimmy Buffett in the background playing Christmas in the Caribbean. I'm thinking of making the eve dinner a Caribbean delight with kabobs, but that's a whole other post.

The kitchen & dinning room is where people will be fooled of our Caribbean experience.

It's a Frosty Wonder Land.

Being a collector of snowmen I had no choice but to put them to good use.

There for the cabinets are full of snowmen

the small tree is (pun intended...) one big snowman "hang out".

(laugh now!)

However clueless I am of what to buy him for the holidays, I know he knows I try my best to keep the clutter to a minimum and the seasons light and hearty!

Merry Christmas!

Fall Dress Pick's

2007-12-03T13:26:00.001-05:00

I never get tired of looking for that "right dress" for a wedding as a bride, bridesmaid, or a guest. Here are the picks I've made for fall. Better late than never I guess. These dress are all from David's Bridal. DB is such an easy sight to look over and the staff are very friendly!

September

October
Notice the little orange pleat near the top of these gorgeous chocolate dress. Heck I want to buy this and don't even have something to wear it too.

November
OK is it me or is this a stunning color and design. It just makes you want to be a bridesmaid.

Not inspired

2007-12-03T13:17:00.000-05:00

I am by far not inspired to write anything of any value today. I will however tell you that I am making a Carribean Christmas at my home. The living room will be decorated with a large multi-colored lite tree full of sea shells, tropical flowers, snowman & santa's in beach wear, and a fishnet for a skirt

I'll post pic's tomorrow. Hope you all have a lovely day.

Thanksgiving shouldn't always be about the turkey

2007-11-26T16:45:00.000-05:00

Why should the bird be the prize show of the Thanksgiving dinner. I mean if the turkey was still hunted that morning and plucked and all that good stuff I totally agree that it should be the center of attention. But I'm not really a hunter, I'm more of a baker. (My brother is however and he did give us wild bird for thanksgiving day,but that's besides the point)

I looked on some of my favorite websites for the perfect dessert. This year FOOD NETWORK won, as usual.

We had Caramel Apple Cake. It was my first time making caramel. OMG it was delicious, slow pokes got nothing on me. However, note that just maybe the heavy cream may need to be at room temp before adding it. Mine caramel seem to have one large chunk of hard caramel where I stirred the sauce together. Also, I ended up using 3 bowls for this recipe, mainly because I didn't read the instruction thoroughly before starting.

I hope you enjoy it at much as we did.

Cake:
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/3 cups sugar, plus 1/4 cup for the apples
1 1/2 teaspoons ground apple or pumpkin pie spice blend
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon fine salt
4 large golden delicious apples, peeled, cored, and roughly chopped (about 5 cups)
3 large eggs
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup sour cream
Finely grated zest from 1 orange
Juice of 1 orange (about 1/3 cup)
1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract

Caramel Glaze:
1/2 cup sugar
1 tablespoon light corn syrup
2 tablespoons water
1/2 cup heavy cream
3/4 cup pecans, toasted and roughly chopped (didn't have any so I omitted them :( )
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Pinch salt

Special equipment: 10 cup bundt pan

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Generously butter and flour the bundt pan.
Whisk the flour, 1 1/3 cup of the sugar, 1 teaspoon of the pie spice, the baking powder, baking soda, and salt together in a large bowl.

Toss the apples with the remaining 1/4 cup sugar and 1/2 teaspoon pie spice and set aside.

Whisk the eggs and oil together in another bowl. Whisk in the sour cream, orange zest and juice, and vanilla. Pour the egg mixture into the dry ingredients and stir with a wooden spoon just until combined but still a bit lumpy.

Using a slotted spoon, scatter about 1/2 cup of the apples in the bottom of the bundt pan. Put about 1/3 of the batter on top. Repeat, alternating with the remaining apples and batter, ending with the batter.

Bake the cake until it pulls away for the sides of the pan and a skewer inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean, about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Cool 10 minutes and invert onto a rack placed over a baking sheet. Cool. (The cake can be prepared to this point a day ahead.)

To make the caramel: Stir the sugar, corn syrup, and 2 tablespoons water in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat and cook, swirling the pan but not stirring, until the sugar is dark amber-colored caramel, about 15 minutes. Pull pan from the heat and carefully pour in the cream (take care it will splatter). Stir in the pecans, vanilla, and salt. Cool until caramel becomes thick and syrupy, then evenly pour over the cake and cool until set.

Cook's Note: We like to bake this cake the day before we serve it so the flavors and texture ripen. If you bake it a day ahead glaze with the caramel the day you plan to serve

Pumpkin Cookies

2007-11-26T16:30:00.000-05:00

I've been in a Pumpkin Craze. I usually make about 10-15 pumpkin rolls during the Thanksgiving season and about 30-40 during the Christmas season. Well the order for pumpkin rolls this Thanksgiving were lacking and I only had about 5 and a 5lb container of pure pumpkin. What to do, what to do? I've been wanting to find the perfect pumpkin cookie and long and behold I found it with a little tweaking. I tweak all recipes, don't know why just do.

Old Fashion Pumpkin Cookies

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
1/2 teaspoon clove
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup butter (1 stick), softened
1 cup LIBBY'S® 100% Pure Pumpkin
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:
PREHEAT oven to 350° F. Grease baking sheets.

COMBINE flour, baking soda, baking power, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt in medium bowl. beat sugar and butter in large mixer bowl until well blended. Beat in pumpkin, egg and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually beat in flour mixture. Drop by rounded tablespoon onto prepared baking sheets.

BAKE for 15 to 18 minutes or until edges are firm. Cool on baking sheets for 2 minutes; remove to wire racks to cool completely.

Now it calls for drizzle topping. I wanted to cut back and make this a little more Weight Watchers friendly, so no drizzle was made. I did however add fig to the third batch after placing them on the cookie sheet. (fig complements of D and the Organic farm) And in the last batch I used about 3/4's cup raisins. I believe the raisins were my favorite.

Do you have any great pumpkin recipes???

Pope and Young

2007-11-15T09:13:00.000-05:00

For nearly all my life I've watched and learned the trade of hunting. My brother, has hunted since he was 14. He got his first gun and his first buck, a 7 pointer! Now years later he hasn't given up the trade. Only thing is, back then he didn't keep the racks (which are antlers) and he didn't get them scored (distance between each point of the antlers), now he does all that and more.

In 2005 he had made Pope and Young. Now I'm not really sure what this is other than it's like royalty in the hunting field. It's organization stating you can hunt and you've got game. To get in you must hunt with bow or rifle, have the antlers measured to a specific degree (a taxidermist will do this for you) and have a certain # of points on the rack. After making it in the listing of Pope & Young, you become a Royal Hunting Guru. It's something hunter try to become part of all their lives. Some never make it and never will, but not my brother.

POPE & YOUNG: SUD, 11/11/05, 207lbs, 9point, score 125 4/8ths

Last year he had the chance again after his kill to make it in the books again. Unfortunately it was 1 inch shy from being listed. This year however, he has killed his first 10 point buck. We think it's going to make it. He will forever be recognized either way as a "LUNGBUSTER"

Oh yeah and for those who are against hunting and all that stuff. There is one very special and totally awesome thing about my brother he kills to eat. Therefore anything he kills he will serve at the next evenings dinner, trophy or no trophy!

If you're interested in finding out more on how to become part of Pope & Young yourself and other hunting information go to...
www.pope-young.org
If you really don't think you actually want to kill and gut go to...

Nearly Satisfied

2007-11-13T15:08:00.000-05:00

Nearly satisfied of my blog.
I've spent a little time today on the blog. I've redesigned and added pictures for your liking. I've also added a poll. Please fill it out. I'll do some more work on it later tomorrow, but for today, I am satisfied with the setup :D
See you soon

UNDER CONSTRUCTION

2007-11-13T09:26:00.000-05:00

Just to let you know, if you're a regular, I'm hating the design of my blog. I love the name because it gives me the opportunity to talk about Wedding and my Dear Husband (DH) and Annie (my border-collie-shepard mix) and of course food and celebration (which I try to par-take in some sort of celebration weekly).

You should See some major change and some new pictures. What the heck, I love seeing what the writer of the blog site looks like, why shouldn't you see me? Please keep checking back. I hope to have the kinks out of the way and the real SLIM SHADDY of Hitchin Collie Lite Beer up and dazzling to your eyes.

Have a great day
Margarit

New Dress

2007-10-26T15:37:00.000-04:00

My new dress for VEGAS! Yah BABY!

Catching up

2007-10-24T06:33:00.000-04:00

Well it's been about a month of catch. I've been so busy trying to get on the SO YOU THINK YOU CAN COOK, That I've missed out on telling you all the wonderful/heartbreaking things that have been going on in life.

So You Think You Can Cook
Well, needless to say you will see me on So You Think You Can Cook. Apparently they do not go for short haired, well rounded, blonde's. Oh well, I love recipe and was fairly impressed with it. And frankly when I write a cookbook and maybe a memories, I can say... IN YOUR FACE! Or if I get another opportunity and make it I can say... PERSISTENCE. He He

Weight Loss with Weight Watchers and Competition
I've been doing fairly well in the weight loss arena. I'm not like a world champ losing 3-5lbs a week or anything but I am usually loosing about a lb a week. That could be 52 lbs in a year and because I only want to lose 34, I'm managing. I only have 20lbs to go by June of 08. That's the goal! On June 6th 2008, My 29th birthday I will be once again the size I was in college and the size (+12) I was in high school. I have an outfit, actually a top I bought 3years ago at GWO (Girls Weekend Out) in Ohio ready to show off my new look. There not much too it but I'm so wearing it! And I have a wedding to go to on the 7th with another outfit I'm so going to get into too. (That outfit is my goal weight dress and DH said he would buy me ANY piece of jewelry I wanted to go with it! YA!!! I'm thinking diamonds, no surprise to him I'm sure.)

We've got a RESCUE in progress on MAPLE
Some know but, some don't, so I'll explain. We live by a JERK! Weeks ago (since I'm catching up)DH was outside (2 sheets to the wind,while I was out of town)trying to kill off a mole problem we've been having. He starts to hear this cry from a cat/kitten. Thinking that they're "doing it" he ignores it and moves on to the rest of the whiskey and mole hunting. About 30min-hour later the crying hasn't stopped. Being the dear husband that he is he goes in search of the cry. When he looks over at our neighbors house he sees a kitten hanging by it's little kitten tail from the neighbors girlfriend door.
Needless to say the jerk didn't seem to mind or even care when DH came to the neighbors door to tell him about it. He said oh yeah that a stare someone dropped off. Then he didn't even walk to the door with him. So when DH got to the car and thought the neighbor would be behind him he wasn't and he was shutting the front door. DH pulled the tip of kitty's tail out of the door and took him home. We had the Cheeky (the kitty new name) for a week until we could take him to a PetSmart for a new home. Rest assure we got him back to health with the patch of skin from his cheek repaired and his tummy full. Annie loved him but we have to many pets as it is so we had to let him go. :(
Here's some pictures

You can tell Annie really loved him and had so much fun playing in the yard with him. Did anyone notice that Cheeky had a collar on him, we didn't put that on him, but he's "a drop-off stray" JERK!
DH Hates the neighbor now and want to spit on him or come to blows with him every time he sees him.

So YOU THINK YOU CAN COOK?

2007-09-25T14:23:00.000-04:00

Yep for what ever reason, I think I can cook. I love it I dream about it and Now I'm going to try to impress you with my Portebella Crab Stuffed Mushroom and Pineapple Mint Tea and for desert A towering display of fruit, cool whip, and Fillo dough. Set back relax and tell me what you think! If you don't like it there's always take out or DiginioriIf I was famous a commerical would go here, but I'm not so pretend there is this great commerical of Rachael Ray saying WOW! Meet Margarit, She's from podunk and can cook! Put your hands together... Reality sinking in now? Ok then! Good! Here's round 2 of the video to complete the lunch. The close to SoYouThinkYouCanCook.

The Sea of Corvettes

2007-09-24T13:49:00.000-04:00

This weekend was another fine time to find the wind in our hair and the engine roaring. We took a motorcycle ride past the border and to the land of FUNFEST 2007. Where the FUN is a sea of nice shiny Corvettes.

While not only did they have the sea full of about 5 acres of Corvettes Dated back to the start to current they had a Repair Lift shop. I was very impressed and excited about this. You usually go to a bike or car show and they offer you this new nice equipment but you have to take it home in DIY or go to the shop. Not here, They knew how to make there Vet patrons happy.

They also had some of my favorites.

A whopping $50G's for this beauty!
It was in the For Sale Corall.

CHECK OUT THIS PAINT JOB! Isn't it TO DIE FOR?

Finally, there were the few that were ruined by male testosterone...

And another, I have a funny notion was a great Christmas from a DW to her DH. I couldn't stop laughing when I saw the license plate!

NOTE: The license plate say XMAS 04

I had a great time. I look forward in going again next year. Maybe then we'll have the 50G's for that 54. I also didn't bring Annie, because well we were on the motorcycle, but I did see some of her fury miniature friends out and about trying to figure out which tire they could pee on. It was a great weekend. What more could you ask for?

$72.62 + Tax = New Mood

2007-09-18T08:32:00.000-04:00

This weekend I went to Wal*Mart for my usual Saturday grocery shopping. I always tend to go through the clothes, put a few in the cart and move on. I also look at the make-up, hair stuff, and of course some of their home accents. I usually don't put them in the cart, unless they're already on the list, i.e. hair dye. It's always nice to see what and where the latest trends are going to put us.
Last weekend I feel in love with the Home Trend Pillows. I've been wanting some new throw pillows for the living room. Mine are hand-me-downs and I want something I picked. I couldn't resist but last weekend there was only 1 of the embroidered 16x16 pillow and no coordinates (but there was a spot for them). This weekend there were 3, with coordinates I thought I could work with. After much time coordinating and making mental images of our living room in my head. I realized the cart was way to small for pillow and groceries, but the pillows would look great, and they were staying in.

Therefore, my usual shopping experience for anything other than groceries for about 35 min of arrival time, turned into an hour of pillow matching. And this would be the first time I actually keep the items in the cart and put them on the check-out belt. It was exhilarating and exhausting. I was so afraid of what I might actually spend this time, since I usually can't get out of there under $100.00. Surprisingly it wasn't as awful as I thought and the DH actually liked them and thought they were pretty. My dear mother thought they were a little girlie for me (which I thought was hysterical) but thought the really added to the room. She wants me to get more. We'll see. What do you think of them?

September 11, 2001 - Where were you?

2007-09-11T11:09:00.000-04:00

Do you know what you were doing on 9/11?

I do, that's why my DH and I are having a candle lit dinner tonight. To remember and to appreciate our lives together. We'll do it in honor of those lost and those that are still over there fighting for others freedom. We'll do it for the loved ones no one gets to have those special dinners with until ???

And he's just going to have to suck it up. Good thing of it is... He loves me

On, September 11 2001, I didn't want to get out of bed. My Mom made me. On the way to work, I heard it. The silence on the radio and then the words that were muffled, short and confused about what was going on. I thought it was a joke or a broad cast I missed the beginning of telling me it wasn't real and it was a Hitch Cock Production or something. Everything was starting to slow down. Then as I walk into work, I didn't have to ask, the silence, the look of shook, the worried faces, and the stillness in our office told me the answer.
Later at school, I watched the televisions and went to finance class where not a one got the information the teacher was trying to give us. He could not concentrate anymore than the rest of us, dismissing class early and calling on loved one in New York.
I tried most of the day to get a hold of my boyfriend at the time to make sure he was all right. I didn't really think we were in threat here but at the same time our worlds did stop turning so who knew. I later realized that the love interest in my life wasn't concerned about my well being or me in any way but was worried about his Jr/high school sweetheart of 7 years. What took me so long to move on I'll never no. I do know now I have some one that loves me just as much as I love them and would be worried and would want me by his side.

I am truly blessed!

Knowing ... How do you know?

2007-09-06T08:29:00.001-04:00

How do you know if you want to become a parent?
When do you know you want to be a parent?
How do you know you'll be a good parent, if you choose to want to become a parent?
Does your biological clock tell you that it's time to be a parent?
Is there even such a thing as "your biological clock"?
And not knowing or not wanting to became a parent, does that make you "a bad person"?

I've had a lot of conflict and discussion in my life about when are you two having babies? We reply with we're not, we don't want any, to finally now we are by far not ready and we're not sure we really want any. After any of those response we get The QUESTIONS and astonished response...
You be so alone!
You'll want them in due time.
Are you kidding me?
What about when you get old? Who will take care of you?
How will you function if everyone else is having kids and you don't?
What will you do when they want to vacation with you, but the kids have to come along and you don't want them too?
Do you not like kids?
I can't believe you of all people do not want to have children!
Is this like for sure?
Oh, you're just being silly! You'll want them sooner or later.

It goes on and on and on and on and, well you get the point. What if I don't thought? What if I think I'll be happy and find borrowing other peoples kid and moving on with my life is OK? What if I want to be "the incredible AUNT MARGARIT? Does this make me a inhumane person? Does this make me weird? (weird, well maybe)

This weekend I was hanging out with the family for labor day. Some how I'm sure the question got brought up again and my sister-n-law mentioned she thought her son might be sterile. It runs in the family and you may have that same gene, she tells him and his girlfriend. He and his girlfriend of 7 months were so sad, so upset, and concerned about what they should do.

He's 19 and she 17. How in the world do they know that they want to have kid? I mean they've not faced graduation, college, marriage. They've not even got the opportunity to see what 21 feels like when you party like you're a rock star. How do they know? Why are they even talking about it? But more in point how do they know they want kids when in actuality they are still very young and don't even know what they want to eat for breakfast?

The real point is ... How do they know and I (28, married, housed, educated) don't?

Hospitals cannot mend broken hearts

2007-08-22T09:03:00.001-04:00

Last night was the last night my dear sister and Annie's aunt would be full of slobbers and happy tails. Maggie's conditions were more sever than previously thought. Her leg had made no change and was not mending in the slightest. There was also infection in the leg and water building up around it. Yesterday they actually had her in one of those hanging baskets they have for horse when they break their legs. Given that Maggie is a Saint Benard and 170+ lbs the chances of the outcome was improbable :`(

Maggie was laid to rest late last night. She was 61 years old. She was a full blooded Saint Bernard. The worse thing she'd every do to you was slobber all over you. She loved car rides and enjoyed the stop at the horse pasture to watch the big guys. McDonalds carried her favorite hamburger, which she would get as a reward each time after her styling given to her from out of town. She loved her mother very much and would protect her if ever needed. She'd wag her tail so hard that it looked like a beautiful feather duster. Her teeth were inperfect, but her smile was worth ever second to see. Maggie did not dislike anyone and if you had the time she had enough ears and belly to rub for a long while.

After the challenge of Maggie's life shorten, my mother was devistated. Ago the rest of the family. She came home and feel to her knees in on the living room floor where Maggie laid. Crying with all her might. My father thought that he was going to have to take her to the hospital. Unfortunatly, hospitals cannot mend broken hearts. She finally got up from the floor and moved to the recliner where she passed out. When I entered the room she awoke but only to show that no-one was home inside. Her heart is broken and she is empty.

Why can't hospitals fix broken hearts? They can fix one with knots in them from eatting wrong for so long, they can replace veins from you leg into them, the can put batteries in them to make them beat, but the can FIX a Broken HEART! WHY??? WHY???

Maggie you will be truely missed. We love you with all our hearts. I wish I could have said good bye and snuggled up in your big puppy dog arms once again. I love you!

Ache

2007-08-22T05:48:00.000-04:00

Sometimes I ache to be with my DH.

We've been together for a total of 3 years, married for 1. I get up with him every weekday morning between 430-515 a.m. Fix him his breakfast,lunch, and fill his lunch cooler up with water, Gatorade, juices, and soda. I put special treats in there I know he like such as black licorice, cream soda, snicker bars, and picture or letters from me. Then when it's all done we watch the weather together standing in the kitchen. Finally there's that moment, the moment when it's time for him to leave, the moment where I sometimes start to ache.

I've always had this aching feeling with him. The feeling as he gives me that big hug and kiss before he leaves of "I DON'T WANT YOU TO GO!" You'd think after 3 years of being together and doing the same routine that that would have passed by now. That I'd be so over it. That I'd be ready for him to leave and OK knowing he'd be out there trucking it up. But I'm not! I just want to hug him some more, give him more kisses, and tell him to call in and well watch TV or read books to each other all day in bed snuggling. (We've never done that really, so how do I even know I'd like it?) But I know as well as I'm saying it that he can't and really neither can I. We have to work. One day though this work will be done and the aches will go away and we can be together, riding off into the sunsets of Siesta Key.

xoxoxoxoxoxo Have a great day! Be careful! I love you!xoxoxoxoxoxo

MAGGIE

2007-08-21T14:32:00.000-04:00

Well today is a sad sad day. Maggie, Annie's aunt, had to go to the Dr. yesterday to get her leg rewrapped in a new cast. When going to the Dr. they found that her leg was swallowen and very very irritated. Wanting to keep her overnight for observation they found that the leg has not showen any change since 3-4 weeks ago when all this happened.
Today a meeting with the family, my mom and dad, was scheduled for 1 o'clock. I just got a call at 2:15 letting me know things are not looking good. Maggie is not doing well at all and Dad said she's probably not coming home this time.
It is SO UPSETING!!
It makes me sick to think about it.
What can we do to help her???

MAGGIE WE LOVE YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Annie's Anut Maggies foot is broken :'' (

2007-08-01T15:59:00.000-04:00

Black Bean Soup * ROCKS *

2007-08-01T15:58:00.001-04:00

I scored a great recipe last weekend. I went to Chilli's and loved their Chicken Tortilla soup. It tasted to me more like black bean with chicken in it. I did a little digging and found this to be the closest recipe for that flavor. I omitted a few things either because they weren't on hand or because I just didn't care for them.
If you are in to new recipes and looking for a good soup to store for the fall this is it!

Record Street Cafe Tequila Black Bean Soup

Source: Reno Gazette-Journal

1 small yellow onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons oil
Couple generous splashes tequila (surprisingly I omitted this)
1 medium carrot, shredded
1 small red pepper, roasted and diced (I used orange because I had it on hand)
1 (5-ounce) can diced green chilies
3 teaspoons cumin
1/2 teaspoon white pepper
4 cups vegetable stock (I used chicken stock instead)
3/4 cup salsa of choice (combination of homemade and store bought)
1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed (don't forget to rinse em, or your soup will be purple and so will your chicken!)
Dash liquid smoke
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (YUCK! This stuff is gross- omitted)
(OMITTED by choice, but if I was serving to guest it would be on there (except the cilantro)
1/2 cup crushed tortilla chips or 2 small yellow corn tortillas, shredded
Sour cream
Cilantro sprigs
added about 1-2lbs boneless skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded.

In soup or stock pot, cook onion and garlic in oil until onions are translucent; do not overcook garlic. Add tequila, carrot, red pepper, green chilies, cumin and white pepper and cook over medium heat until tequila cooks off. Add stock, salsa, black beans, tortillas, liquid smoke and salt and black pepper. Bring to boil, then reduce heat and simmer 20 minutes, or until tortillas have dissolved. Add chopped cilantro and season again, if desired, with salt and black pepper. Divide soup evenly among 4 bowls, garnishing each with dollop sour cream and cilantro sprig. Serve, if desired, with chunks of cheddar jalapeño bread. Makes 4 servings.

I hear the kettle corning!

2007-08-01T15:57:00.003-04:00

Today was the first time I've ever had homemade kettle corn. Gary, a do all in the kitchen loves fair food. He is even part owner of a Snow Cone Company and makes Coney dogs there and those cool yummy curly fries. Well he decided to experiment with KETTLE CORN. I'm not sure you've ever had KETTLE CORN, but let me describe it to you.

KETTLE CORN = It light fluffy popcorn with a touch of an ever delicious combination of sugary sweet and salt.

Kettle corn is made with 3 key ingredients, 6 total ingredients, with a 3 to 1 ratio.
The Kettle (copper will work great, but the larger the better)
The OIL (CORN OIL works great!)
the Corn (act, Orville)
the Sugar (pure white cane)
the Salt (table will do just fine, no reason to yuppie it up with sea salt)
and finally... a dash of Pepper (salt can't be without pepper)

Get the pot warming hot. Add the oil get it toasty. Add the corn and just before it gets happy add the sugar and watch it pop. Stir it often. When complete add salt and pepper.

Here is a fun and helpful sight as to WHY YOU SHOULDN'T MAKE KETTLE CORN AT HOME. They also, try to sell you some too, but that's besides the point. It's great for a laugh, but mostly educational. Check it out!

http://www.wickeddelicious.com/how_to_make_kettle_corn_&_recipe.php

A teaspoon of CINNAMON makes the medicine go down, the medicine go down!

2007-08-01T15:39:00.000-04:00

After hearing a strange request from a diabetics friends doctor, I decided to do some research. This research gave me a whole different level of appreciation for spices, cinnamon, and Mary Poppins.

THE MYTH OF CINNAMON:
* To protect yourself from gossip or the envy of others, place a tiny dot of
cinnamon on your breast bone in the morning while dressing.
* Sprinkling a little cinnamon under the phone, may help you get that difficult
person to call you back.
* Sucking on a cinnamon flavored candy before you need to make a presentation or a
speech, can help you be more eloquent.
* The next time you wash the floor, add a dash of cinnamon to the pail to increase
business. This is especially effective if done in your kitchen, front hallway and
the area of your home business
* used for purification, blessings, prosperity, protection and improved
communication.
* Sprinkling a little cinnamon on your toast or your cafe latte in the morning may
help to improve business
and also make you silver tongued (the spice is ruled by the communication planet
Mercury)

THE TRUTH ABOUT CINNAMON:
Cinnamon is the most common herb in the Cinnamon is one of the world's most widely used digestive aids, helping to improve most gastrointestinal problems. It is greatly effective in relieving intestinal gas and eases diarrhea, nausea and vomiting. It also contains paranoiac acid, which helps to stop the formation of stomach ulcers without interfering in the production of the gastric acid needed for good digestion.
The newest research into Cinnamon highlights its hypoglycemic properties. Extracts of Cinnamon have been reported to increase insulin activity, increasing the breakdown of glucose and improving blood sugar concentrations. Consuming roughly one half a teaspoon of Cinnamon daily may lead to dramatic reductions in blood sugar, cholesterol and triglycerides in Type-2 diabetic patients who are not taking insulin. Our water-soluble Cinnamon botanical extract has been shown to be the most beneficial form of dietary Cinnamon, according to studies done by the U.S.D.A.

THE BENEFITS
* this warming, aromatic herb stimulates peripheral circulation, which is especially
beneficial to people with cold hands and feet.
* Cinnamon helps to control bleeding, uterine hemorrhage and excessive menstrual
flow.
* helps to suppress E-coli, Candida and other yeast infections, as well as
staphylococci and the bacteria found in tuberculosis.
* fight the common cold and flu
* ease the discomforts of arthritis and rheumatism
* relieve spasms and hypertension, lower fever and blood pressure.
* Daily Cinnamon consumption may lead to dramatic reductions in blood sugar,
cholesterol and triglycerides by as much as twenty percent.
* When added to the time-honored value of Cinnamon as an antiseptic, astringent and
stimulant that will also relieve nausea, flatulence and diarrhea,
* Cinnamon is one of the flavor components used in 'cola' soft drinks
Cinnamon burned in incense was used:
* for healing
* to cover up the smell from burnt offerings in the temples to promote high
spirituality
* to stimulate the passions of the male

Don't forget to use cinnamon in your recipes.
Somethings I use cinnamon in...
Smoothies
Yogurt
Pork
Chili
Toast
Fruit
Bar-B-Q
Coffee
Tea
Cocoa
Cider

Here's a pork recipe
1 pound pork tenderloin (this may be in a couple of pieces)
2 tablespoons reduced-sodium soy sauce
3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 tablespoons sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon dry sherry
1/2 teaspoon powdered ginger
1 teaspoon dry mustard
1 teaspoon lemon juice

This information has been a courtesy of www.ask.com and http://homecooking.about.com/od/recipes/Recipes.htm

Essences of Beauty vs Greenland

2007-07-17T16:34:00.001-04:00

What the heck is body butter?
Do I need it to make me continue to look prestige and dignified as I do now in these sexy Einstein glasses? Herbert asked himself. I know, I'll go to Margarit and ask her what she or her girls know about it.

Hey Herbert! What's new this week on product information?

Well the topic is "BODY BUTTER!"
What kind? Which one? Can you make it? What can you tell me about it?

There are 2 brands of body butter I've tried so far... Essences of Beauty and Greenland. I've also heard some wonderful comments about Bath and Body butter from "the girls."
Essences can be found in your local drug store. I found mine in CVS. The cost a whopping $5. The scents range from sweet pea, brown sugar, seabreeze, cittrus coconut, and lemon twist. I ended up get the Citrus coconut and lemon twist. The texture is creamy yet a little heavy once on the skin. It seemed like this one didn't want to obsorb into my skin as well as the Greenland Brand. However, the smells are frisky named, very young smelling, and fresh. The smell also acts as a lightly misted scent that stay with you for the better part of the day. On a scale of 1-10, I'd give it a 8.5 on texture and a 10 on scent.

Greenland brand I found at Target. The cost is around $9 online at the Ulta store it's $16. The scents are more frisky and very girly. I got apple and loved it! The smell wasn't overwhelming by any means just natural and different than the typical vanilla or sweetpea everyone seems to get. The texture is rich and creamy and surprisingly weightless. Once putting this over my skin I felt as if I'd died and gone to heaven. I'd give it a 10 on texture and a 9 on scent.

I have yet to spend the 20 +$'s on the Body Shop brand but "the Girls" rave about it. One has mentioned that her pedicureist said her feet were so soft that there wasn't much to do with her.
My opinon is the Greenland so far. It's middle of road on qualty and much smoother and less heavy going on.

Some of your favorite scents might be...
Unscented Body Butter, Apple Jack Body Butter, Black Raspberry Body Butter, Calming Water Body Butter, Coco Cabana Body Butter, Cinnamon Vanilla Body Butter, Coconut Body Butter, Fresh Ginger Body Butter, Fresh Linen Body Butter, Honey Almond Body Butter, Jasmine Body Butter, Lavender Body Butter, Lemongrass Body Butter, Mango Papaya Body Butter, Pearberry Body Butter, Violet Body Butter, and Wild Honeysuckle Body Butter
And be careful of your flavor pick. You don't want to smell like old lady with bad purfume.

Can you make body butter in your home?

Sure you can! Check out online on www.ask.com Here are some of the sites I came up with.

http://ridleyfamily.org/cora/herbalcrafting/bodybutter/

Ingredients:
1 lb. Mango Butter
1 lb. Shea Butter
1/3 cup sweet almond oil
1/3 cup avocado oil
1/3 cup apricot kernel oil
3 tablespoons jojoba oil
1 - 3 teaspoons vitamin E
1 teaspoon lanolin
5 - 10 drops grapefruit seed extract (GSE)
about 5 teaspoons essential oils, depending upon the strength of the oils you choose

www.lyndenhouse.net/recipes/bodybutter.htm

Get your favorite body butter today or make your own. Keep it on hand especially for the winter months when skin continues to break no matter how much you add lotion.
Enjoy feeling like satian.

Almost a Year

2007-07-17T15:24:00.000-04:00

OK, so I've been kind of MIA. Well there is reason. I have been working on the upcoming 1 year anniversary presents.

1 year of marriage = PAPER

so everything I will be giving him will involve paper.

This is how it starts. Our actual anniversary is on July 29th. I've decided to give him tickets to Alison Krauss & Union Station for July 14 instead. For some reason she could rearrange her schedule to come in town then (hee hee). On Friday morning I made the final arrangements.

1 box (reused of my birthday present) / check!
1 map with itinerary (locations starred with cutesy crap like;
sex,dinner,lunch,concert /(freaking hilarious)check!
2 tickets for concert / check!
1 wrapping paper made of itinerary map /(cute) Check!
1 bow made of our wedding programs / (extra gay) Check!

Now just telling him how much I love him and How lucky I feel each day knowing that I've finally found the one I want to grow only with! :D

He looked out me, because I was kind of being sneaky about the whole surprise and worried too. You know he may not like it. Anyways he smiled and kissed me and said I didn't think we were going to make a big deal out of this. We're going to Vegas I thought we were going to leave it at that. I said yes but this is a big deal and you're giving me Jimmy tickets so I'm giving you Alison.
Needless to say he gave me a kiss and we were all happy with lots of I LOVE YOU flying through the air.

On Saturday I was really eager to get out of dodge. I did the regular of getting groceries and stuff for the hotel. I packed a cooler full of beer, crackers, cheese (pre-sliced), Pickles, Canadian bacon, champagne, and 2 small bottle of sunny-D.

By 1 I was itching to go before we decide we had work that really needed to be done instead of going away and enjoying ourselves. A little before 3 we made it to the City. We had to figure out where our hotel was and where our bank was to. We circled down town about 10 time until finally I called the hotel to find out if they had changed their name. Sure enough they did The Radisson was now The Sheraton. Thank goodness. I should have asked her if our reservations were still good then (knowing they would be). We walked from the bank to HOOTERS for lunch/dinner. 20 wings later and 40oz of Coors Light we were set to walk back, check into the hotel, and get ready for the concert.
The Sheraton was awesome! It had a gorgeous room, a great pool on the 9th floor overlooking the city, a Starbucks, a restaurant, and in walking distance from the pavilion.

The walk to the concert was great. We got to walk down the cities canal and see everyone doing romantic touristy crap. Alison Krauss and Union Station were out of this world AWESOME! We did spend $36 on 6 beers so that kind of sucked. But the show and getting to know the band was great. Alison really likes to talk a bit to, so you get to learn all sorts of stuff about each member of the band.

The walk back was great! DH was kind of worried about us walking back so late at night until we finally did and we were walking back with a heard of other people from the show.

When we got back to the room it was a little R&R with free beer and dinning out of the cooler, given our wings had worn off. We watched the food network and took showers only long enough for me to pass out on My DH :( Oh well, we had a great time and I look forward to the rest of my life with my Dear Husband by my side enjoying all the wonderful things we can take in together.

xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxox
Happy Anniversary
xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxox
Forever Yours
~ Margarit

Pretty Paper

2007-07-13T14:24:00.000-04:00

I've almost been married a year! Can you believe it? The DH and I said in unison that we feel like it's been 30. On other days it feels like just yesterday.

2007-07-10T08:16:00.000-04:00

HERBERT provides insight on the coolest tool in Pet manufacturing!

The FURminator

My DH saw this while making a delivery at a local veterinarian clinic. He was always amazed. Finally after realizing our 3 cats and a dog were on the path to a destructive Shedding party, he bought it.
Now the Furminator’s price is fairly steep, but if you want an effective, easy-to-clean device to cut down on a pet’s shedding, it’s well worth considering. We paid $32 for ours and I DO NOT regret it one bit. We've only had it a night, but the plan is to brush them again later this week.

Some Herbert notes on this magically erasing shedd device.
- It makes you pets fur silky smooth and shinny
- They look as if they just got back from a groomers
- Expect to see a whole other pet beside you when your done, even if you brush your pet regularly. (I brushed Annie 2 hours before and loads still came off)
- If you don't rake your pets skin by pressing to hard they absolutely LOVE it
- The blades cause static, therefore the hair is going to be all over you in the end
- Use the FURminator somewhere where it is easily able to clean like tile floors or out side
- grab a wastebasket for easier clean up
- shop around! The best price could be online

Enjoy a hair free home and reduce allergentic build up of pet dander and fur! Buy THE FURminator!

Summer Time FUN

2007-07-09T05:55:00.000-04:00

Isn't summer wonderful and exhausting? Ever year to show our appreciation to Mother Nature and her seasons we throw a Party! Summer Solstice is our favorite party of the year (except our birthdays, wink wink). It's the beginning of the "party season". Almost every weekend something FUN is happening outside. It is GREAT.

Since the solstice party we've the A-son's annual fourth of July party. This is at an unknown location in Podunk Indiana. Kegs of beer are served, volleyball & basketball are played, foods are brought in all the way from the east coast, a cannon goes off at the least expected time, and great conversation is stirred up about... What's new in your life?
This year ours was being married and potential real estate investment and our Vegas Trip (coming soon). The A-son's... Well J has the a new girlfriend, now is a body trainer, still playing and written his own music in Cal. B is still up-to-date with all the new technological devices include THE iPHONE. L is still working the garden end and I think her hair is getting longer. And finally there is J#1, who has became a organic developer! He work in the field of WORM POOH. As funny and bizarre as this seems it great organic fertilizer that ODORLESS and works great! If find he has a website I'll pass along his information.

Party#2 that same night. Back in H-ville. We were there for the fireworks show and slight awkwardness of my first time seeing the family open about my gay cousin and her future wife/life partner to come. After everyone (adult figures) left it was pretty much a normal exciting party. Plus they have a great new house to share.

Weekend 29-30: Storm nights and days created the weekend of rest. We watched movies, drank together, visited family, and on Sunday enjoy a new friend and her pond. I caught fish! Well everyone else did too.

HAPPY 4th of JULY!!!!!!!!!
It was a lazy day for me. I received a massage and then DH and I were off to the Sman pool for food, beer, and sun time. When we arrived we got to watch the Nathan's HotDog eatting contest -> GROSS! Then we came home to visit with my cousin and her girlfriend, it was a relaxing night.

7 / 7 / 07
The luckiest day of the year? I think Not! but it wasn't bad. I had another party today. A Jewelry party. Premier Design to be more specific. It was great!

Meet Stiffany

The show turned out great! And really why wouldn't it? It's awesome jewelry! I love wearing mine. Also, there was great food like a watermelon fruit basket, a cantaloupe dip bowl, Swedish meat balls, wings, homemade salsa (it was on the RAVE) and crab dip with crackers. Don't forget the desserts of ooey gooey chocolate walnut pie, Fruit Fluff over angel food cake, and Dark Chocolate cherry turnover. We also had PUNCH, it was out of this world (Spiked with VODKA :D)

2 spoons + cozy conversations = ICE CREAM

2007-07-06T06:18:00.001-04:00

What is it about ice cream?
Everyone loves it! Children from itty bitty babies, to adults that really want to be children, to your favorite friendly pet Oscar the Dog!

Do you ever remember seeing the old photos of the couple having that magically moment over a hot fudge sundae or a malt?

I do! I loved it!

The idea that this creamy delicious treat can put you in a world far from the one you are in. A milestone, such as it is, I found that my husband and I share that same love. He personally could eat it every night. I on the other hand eat it rarely, but love it!

We've been married nearly a year and a few weeks ago we had parlor moment sharing ice cream on the love-seat and watching television. I didn't think to much of it other than it was parlor moment and I fell right back in love with him all over.

Well last night after dinner he rushed to the kitchen to find the Parlor. As he sat down again on the love-seat, he asked... "wanna grab a spoon?"
That's what a Parlor Moment is. That's what brings a couple to cozy conversations and wonderful love that must grow to the ages of dawn where ice cream parlor will once again be the in thing and finally memories will be able to set.

Editors NEEDED

2007-06-29T09:32:00.001-04:00

At a stage in your life you wonder where are you going? What do you want? Are you happy with how this road is turn out?

I'm at that stage. That bend in the road. The one that goes left,right, and has a pothole leading straight ahead. If I turn left or right what will I find? Will it be the day dreams that I envision while sitting bored looking out my bard window at my work desk? Will it lead me to the cold sweats at night that bring up the fictional cheating and the gourmet foods I dream of serving to the locals, without burning? Or... Do I stay going straight ahead and eventually fall into the large pothole of comfort and nonexistent to my inner daydreamer.

All these roads of chance that you can take makes you think. Which I've been doing a lot of these days. Last night I explained to a friend that I wanted to but land that we could actually afford and build my cottage on it. There I would write my book. I thought she was going to fall over! A BOOK? she yelped! I didn't know you could write. My response as I was bent over the bath tub washing out the hair dye... Well, I can't, but that's what an editors for right? Still amazed she said well what kind? With much gratification I got to start my list... A chick flick romance comedy, a cookbook, and finally a children's book. She smiled bigger than life and said YEAH, I've always wanted to be the artist for a children's book.

Ladies and gentleman I thought sparks were going to fly out of the tub from the electrical excitement running through my veins as the water poured from the faucet. She's a fantastic artist :D and then she said "if you do it could I be your artist?" I was thrilled how could this be happening? How could this road steer left or right in one evening and miss a major pot hole I was heading for?

My decision has been made and early this morning I started researching for books about books, self publishing, structures on writing books, chapter outlines. I scanned through my ideas and wrote down what I wanted to write about... Ducks and counting. Dexter the armadillo (I created him years ago). Lipchiz the seashell frog (again a past creation). A day at the park with ducks and bread after daycare. A growing baby book with dogs, cats, ducks and frogs. It's awesome. I feel so great!

This could be my "Road to Life"

2007-06-28T15:55:00.003-04:00

What about Weddings?

I found this game about weddings, you can help Jenny look for bluebirds and through her messy photo finding things she need like a pepper shaker and a hat and a yellow bus and finally my favorite a jar of pennies, like that's going to get them far.

http://games.icq.com/game.htm?code=11228860&RefId=DDW_441x206&lc=en

I also thought since we're talking wedding today, we'd say my favorite was having my significant SHOW UP! I never doubted he wouldn't but there is always that fear that he'd get tied up or he'd decided to take a long drive, or the best he'd get caught by the 3rd railroad crossing in the last hour.

I also thought I'd share with you a favorite dress at this point. It's a little extra for me, since I'm married now and I'll never have the opportunity to look at dresses again unless I become a bridesmaid.

2007-06-28T15:55:00.001-04:00

http://games.icq.com/game.htm?code=11228860&RefId=DDW_441x206&lc=en

I need a name

2007-06-25T15:18:00.001-04:00

I've been getting very creative with left-overs. Making sure to use them to my best ability. Also, I'm currently in the thought process of writing 2 books. 1. a cook book and the other... well I can't tell you or I'd have to sick ANNIE on you.

After making mom Pumpkin bread for her trip I had left over pumpkin. I was trying to figure out what to do with it so I decide to use up so Phyllo dough and make the best of it. This creation has the following.

Pure pumpkin
cinnamon
clove
nutmeg
brown sugar
pumpkin pie spice
chocolate chip morsels

Wrapped in Phyllo dough, cooked at 375* for 12 minutes on each side. Pulled out sprinkled with powder sugar and a toss of chocolate chip morsels.

The taste of the choclate and pumpkin is different. A little spicy and a sweetness. As you cut into the delicious triangle pumpkins a sweet ozzyness of chocolate drizzles out almost each cut. The first bite gives you that Hun I don't know feeling but then it's irrestible and you have to go in for a second taste. What are those flavors you ask yourself, and before you know it the triangle is gone and saddness is forced upon you with hopes there is just one more in the kitchen to try out.

I've decide : If you'd like one no Problem! NAME IT. The winner will get full measurement or if I know you I'll make it for you when you visit or when I'm asked over.
Thinking Pumpkins!

summer solstice

2007-06-25T15:17:00.001-04:00

It's Friday Night and I'm feeling in right! Oh, what a NIGHT! Today we are celebrating our annual Summer Solstice Party. We realize that the party should have been on Thursday when summer actually begun, but hey we've gotta get up at 4:45am and really a hang over is NOT the way to start the morning at work. So this year it was on Friday.

Our menu... Tiki torches, the great outdoors, day light for like ever,
bar-b-q ribs (wet), sweet corn on the cob, boiled seasoned red potatoes, pasta salad, and of course BEER & Jimmy Buffett Music. Oh, I just about forgot great conversation including the topic is that a man or a women game brought to you by Gay pride week in KY.

It was a great evening. We started at 6pm and finished around 1am. Some of the guest had some other plans so they ate and ran. Others just dropped in to shake it a little and say it's Part-tay Season. And then there were FOUR. We stayed until finally we decide it was dark, our butts were wet, and the booze was getting hot.

I threw in a picture of the after life. This is what I had to wake up to :'(
Oh well it was SO worth it!!!

Welcome to Lids and Socks, May I take your order?

2007-06-25T14:45:00.000-04:00

So last night while making dinner I found that I HATE lids. I have a problem with lids. I tend to boil everything over on the stove. I'm not a bad cook and you wouldn't think I would do that that often, but I do. I'm ashamed of it, but really now who are we kidding. Has anyone ever not boiled over water at some point in their life time?

Well I decided for the fun of it to ask my friends what they would name a restaurant if they had the option of doing so.

The 1st said Coen's Arcade. A high end diner food with a gourmet flare and somehow an incorporation of arcade games into it. maybe in the waiting area....
This one has a beautiful little boy named Coen and well they love the Arcade and she's an awesome cook, so I knew it wouldn't take her long.

The 2nd person said they would name theirs Lucien's. A bakery/coffee shop with used books.
Their name came from the librarian in her favorite story, the Sandman. *Note to self get The Sandman- End Note.*

The 3rd person said with such glee, that's the easiest question I've had all day. I have NO DESIRE to own my own restaurant. Now I understand why. She works in a insurance corporation making new proposal & charts & everything else I know little about or have no desire to do. Way to stressful for me, I'm way to layed back and well to fidgety to stay in one place like that to long. Especially talking about insurance.

So after a lot of thought I've decided on a fictional whim that I to could have my own restaurant. And after my boiling incident I realized something there are 3 things that always seem to be a nascence in life. Lid, Socks, and instructions.
They always seems to find their way in the eaten by the weirdest things; the trash monster (garbage man), eaten by the dryer, eaten by the fire hole in the back yard, or eaten by the filing cabinets of lost organization.

Therefore with each of these items needed but never available and never really wanting to use them I'm calling my restaurant today and today only
Lids & Socks!
where your food will be served in a variety of un-matched lids, your plastic utensils will be stored safely in colorfull miscellaneous socks as your napkins. For place mats, but of course, instructions on anything and for everything. The food will be ribs, corn, and salad. Dessert will be a variety of fun edibles like mudd pie and worms.
So if this sounds like you and your type of establishment come join in on the fun opening day 7/7/07. ;)

A day at the Spa ~

2007-06-21T08:39:00.000-04:00

Have you ever wondered how a dog could go to the spa? Me neither!
However, this morning I witnessed Annie (Princess Annie today) enjoying a trim. She has been sliding around quit a bit on our hardwood and tile floors so I decided she need a trim-n-d-toes. Dogie Pedicure!
She was feisty at first wanting a belly massage and a eye boogie removal treatment first. Then it was down to business with THE PAWS!

She laid on her back, feet up, and enjoy what seemed like the best foot rub someone could get. And as many might do when the feeling is right and the therapist is doing his/her job totally awesome the client yelps out a big sigh of relief. That or a loud snore!
Princess Annie was in her element and ready to walk out in high heel stiletto and turn on all the cute neighbor dukes.

starting over in BLOG land

2007-06-20T13:59:00.000-04:00

A new blog created by yours truly!

I'll have lots of...
wedding stuff (food-dresses-picture poses-dilemma's-advise)
a dog with many names (yet, just one dog)
cats (is 3 to many?)
food (light & done right plus favorite's from everyone)
and a time to enjoy life with expressions of a boozing celebration!

This is MY BLOGlAND - HITCHIN COLLIE LITE BEER,
ENJOY the REFRESHMENT!