Becky's Blog

Update and Recipe

2012-01-05T14:02:00.004-05:00

Hello!!
Long time since I've posted. I had hung up my blog harp and trying to just SMILE!!

For those that have followed me in the past on my weight lost, I'm now at a total of 116.2 pounds out of mind, out of sight. I've been doing this with eating low carb for the most part. Trying to find out just what carbs and my body don't get along. Soooo exciting, don't you think???
NOPE???
I'm in this for the long haul so of course I don't like to stick to the same old, same old. I always look for recipes and try them out. Found some really good sites and they have passed the family test as well.
I thought I would share one such recipe I came across and tweeted it a little. Just made them today and I'm well pleased. Oh...and did I say it was pretty easy.

Microwave Spiced Nuts

1/4 cup butter
1/2 cup brown sugar (I used 1/4 cup of Splenda brown sugar)
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 tablespoons water
3 cups pecan halves ( I used a cup each of walnuts, pecans & almonds)

Melt butter in a 4 quart glass casserole dish in the microwave. Stir in the brown sugar, nutmeg, cinnamon and water. Microwave on high for 1 minute. Stir in the nuts so they are well coated. Microwave for 4 to 5 additional minutes on high, stirring every minute. Spread cooked nuts out onto parchment or waxed paper to cool. What I did was spread them on parchment paper (which I love) on a cookie sheet and put them in a 400 degree oven for 7 minutes. Take out and let cool. Break up and store in air tight container.

Hanging Up My Blog Harp

2011-05-31T22:12:00.002-04:00

Got the most depressing news today about my condition from the neurosurgeon. I'm still processing it all and not sure to cry or just toss all doctors out the window. I'm giving up several things and I think blogging is one of them, since I have 1 follower, they won't miss anything. I didn't blog that often. So those that have me on their list of blogs, you might want to delete me.

PAID IN FULL

2011-05-06T12:56:00.002-04:00

In honor of Mother's Day I wanted to share this little story. Whether you still have your mom here on earth or she's made Heaven her new home, I'm sure it will bring up some good memories of her and a few tears as well.
My mother passed away on May 12, 2002, which was Mother's Day that year, as well as my nephew, Jared's birthday. So Mother's Day is more than just any old Mother's Day.
In loving memory.

Paid in full

My little boy came into the kitchen this evening while I was fixing supper. And he handed me a piece of paper he'd been writing on. So, after wiping my hands on my apron, I read it, and this is what it said:

For mowing the grass, $5.
For making my own bed this week, $1.
For going to the store $.50.
For playing with baby brother while you went shopping, $.25.
For taking out the trash, $1.
For getting a good report card, $5.
And for raking the yard, $2.

Well, I looked at him standing there expectantly, and a thousand memories flashed through my mind.
So, I picked up the paper, and turning it over, this is what I wrote:

For the nine months I carried you, growing inside me, No Charge.
For the nights I sat up with you, doctored you prayed for you, No charge.
For the time and the tears, and the cost through the years, No Charge.
For the nights filled with dread, and the worries ahead, No Charge.
For advice and the knowledge, and the cost of your college, No Charge.
For the toys, food and clothes, and for wiping your nose, No Charge.
Son, when you add it all up, the full cost of my love is No Charge.

Well, when he finished reading, he had great big tears in his eyes. And he looked up at me and he said, "Mama, I sure do love you."
Then he took the pen and in great big letters he wrote: Paid in Full.

Harlan Howard

My Absolute Favorite

2011-04-24T15:39:00.002-04:00

Happy Easter
From The Whitmer House

He Is Risen, He Is Risen Indeed!!

This song is beautifully done so I'm sharing. May you be blessed as well.

I've Just Seen Jesus

Great News From The Doctor

2011-03-17T23:05:00.002-04:00

This past Monday was my first visit of the year to my doctor for a follow up on the blood they had taken from me the Thursday before. The doc likes to keep tabs on me, so every 3 but no more than 4 months I go back to do the same old same old. The main squeeze is to keep him happy and I will be happier.

So...........

Report was blood pressure was down and in good range from Dec., cholesterol had went down to 188 without taking meds, A1C was 5.7 with glucose @ 60 so I'm to drop one of my pills I take for diabetes, which is now only 2 pills a day instead of the 4 I was taking from the time I started losing weight. I'm just 8 tenths away from losing 80 lbs.

I have also started to go to a Chiropractor to see if it can help with my mobility. Of course I haven't been to one in like almost 32 years. I have fell several times with the big one being a little over 6 years ago and started down hill from there. I have one leg longer than the other and I'm totally out from head to feet. I really hope it will do me some good. I missed being able to walk and get around like I use to. We'll see.

Frozen Hiney Syndrome

2011-02-25T14:49:00.003-05:00

It all started with Heather hurting her back at work the first of the week. The pain was so great and going down her leg that she made an appointment with her chiropractor. She was going everyday to her and so on Thursday I decided I would go and take her and ended up seeing her for the first time myself. Now, mind you I haven't been to a chiropractor since I was 4 months pregnant with Heather and walking crooked. Way back then they would put you on a table and use their hands to pop you, but now for the most part they use other methods. This chiropractor used an instrument and pressed against you and it popped not me.
Need I tell you that I'm way out from my head to my feet. (Don't even go with what your thinking)!! It's going to take some time but I hope she can help me so I can put off hip replacement.
In the mean time she said between then and my next appointment I was to ice...ice...ice...ice...ice....and more ice so that's the idea for the title to this post. I'm so cold all the time anyway this just thrills me to death.

If Only....

2011-02-18T16:09:00.001-05:00

I had something to post about!!!

SORRY!!

My Valentine Then And Now

2011-02-13T21:54:00.004-05:00

My Valentine Then

My Valentine Now
Will be 35 years come April

Becoming Blogless

2011-02-09T15:49:00.004-05:00

Yep! More and more I'm becoming blogless. Hmmmm...is that even a word. Well, it is now. It's meaning is a blog on which very little is blogged.
This winter has gotten me down more ways than one. It's my blog so if anyone really reads this, put on your big girl panties like me and deal with it!!

What Do You Need To Part With??

2011-01-23T17:55:00.004-05:00

At the Whitmer household there has been a little organizing going on. Typically, the month of January is not only for starting the diet but, getting organized. For the past week, I had been doing just that. I really thought I was pretty much done until I read this article.

http://shine.yahoo.com/event/momentsofmotherhood/18-things-you-can-get-rid-of-today-2440361/
I've found out I'm not finished. I have way too much stuff!! When we first moved from a 2 bedroom, 14x70 mobile home 6 years ago into a 1700 square foot, 4 bedroom and 2 car garage, we use to have all sorts of activities held at our house. The floor plan of the kitchen, dining and living room is open and great for hosting showers and entertaining. Now with my arthritis, at least for the past 2 years, those types of things we no longer have.
We have also thought of selling and moving and along with that downsizing. If fact, just this morning my favorite hubby had an idea that when we sell, we just get a motor home so we can enjoy whatever season and weather we wanted. Sounded good to me! So this next week I will start to go through my stuff again with different eyes.I'm going to follow some of the rules and suggestions in the article and see what happens. I already have 5 bags of stuff to give away from the first go around.
Anyone need some more stuff???

Mock Chicken Pot Pie

2011-01-20T16:57:00.002-05:00

The very first time I made this dish I was just messing around, so in a nutshell here is the jest of recipe. You can tweak it yourself to your taste.
1 can of cream of chicken soup
2 cans of water at least
1 large can of chicken breast drained or cooked chicken crumbled up
I bad of mixed vegetables (I used the steamables)
1 can of mixed vegetables drained
2 big handfuls of diced potatoes (I used the frozen kind)
I added minced onion and seasoning to my taste.
I cooked this in my 2 1/2 quart crockpot for about 4 to 5 hours.
I added some instant mash potatoes flakes to help thicken mine up about an 30 minutes to an hour before ready to serve.
Add some fresh hot rolls and you have a easy meal.

1 Week Down/ Easy Treat

2011-01-10T12:59:00.005-05:00

I've completed my first week of reading the Bible through again and I'm on track. It never ceases to amaze me that you can read something over and over again, but shy away from reading the whole entire Bible cause certain parts have names and begats that you just as soon pass over. I wonder just how they came up with the names for their children? Anyway, I'm looking forward to deeming something rich and new this time around.

I also thought I would share something I threw together one evening. I tend to like one dish treats, that way you don't have to worry about finishing something off that would feed 12.
Here I took an apple (with or without peeling) and sliced it up in a microwave safe bowl. Used about 1 1/2 tablespoons of sugar free maple syrup and microwaved on high for 1 minute.Then sprinkled 1 1/2 tablespoons of dry oatmeal cookie mix over it and microwave 30 seconds more. Topped with 2/3 cup of Blue Bunny no sugar added butter pecan ice cream.

New Year Resolutions

2011-01-01T17:27:00.002-05:00

Ha!
Yes, if your like a zillion people in the world today and today I mean January 1, 2011, then you might make a few. I think I read where the #1 resolution was start a diet, only to break that by the 3rd of January.

You know if you've read my blog any or at least followed me on Facebook, then you know I started the weight loss thing before last year and have lost a little over 70 pounds. I will continue to do more losing in 2011, Lord being my helper.

I couldn't really think of things I would like to do other than rid myself of Arthritis, which is a little beyond, unless the Lord seen fit. So, I decided to read the Bible through again this year. I also read that lots of people who call themselves Christians haven't even read the whole Bible through, not even once.

If your interested as well here is the 2 websites that I'm using.

www.biblegateway.com/resources/readingplans/comprehensive.php

www.allaboutgod.com/mp3-bible.htm

I'm Amazed

2010-12-28T09:10:00.003-05:00

As the lyrics of "I'M AMAZED", sung by the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir, of how Jesus could love me, is ...well so amazing!

Another thing I will never cease to be amazed at is my favorite hubby. This last weekend he was home for 3 days and I enjoyed it very much.

I'm not sure if it's my arthritis pain that's getting to him or the little boy in him is growing up some. I had several things on my list that I wanted him to take care of before he left to go on the road, but really wasn't looking for them to happen with all the busyness of those 3 days. I was just going to let them slip cause even the best of men can't keep up. lol
To my amazement, this man of mine came through. I know many of you whom know him wonder just how it ticks at times. I'm still trying to figure that one out myself, but he makes me smile and makes me happy. I miss me lots when something goes haywire around the house....well lets just say, learning to do a man's job is not my cup of tea.

So you ladies that have your hubby around in the evenings, treat him like a king! You do know that if he's the King, then your the Queen!!

Christmas Day

He got himself a Kentucky Wildcat Santa hat.
His shirt was a gift from another year.

Merry Christmas 2010

2010-12-16T20:27:00.003-05:00

Click on picture to enlarge.

Hope this Christmas Season finds you merry and celebrating with family and friends.
Jesus Is The Reason For The Season

I Got Moves.........

2010-12-09T22:38:00.002-05:00

Well I did it again.....only this time I had my friend join us.

Merry Christmas

http://elfyourself.jibjab.com/view/TjZ2KDZDYq0ZXLHg?cmpid=ey_fb_friend

Top Ten Ways Christmas Has Changed Due to the Economy...

2010-12-04T12:32:00.002-05:00

10) Twelve Days of Christmas now down to ten and a half.
9) "Ho, Ho, Ho" replaced by exasperated sigh.
8) Three out of eight maids a milking on unemployment.
...7) Yule log has to last all year.
6) Frosty the Snowman now a depressed, melancholy soul.
5) Letters to Santa include resumes.
4) Tinsel recycled for cash money.
3) People hoping to get coal in case gas gets shut-off.
2) Out of town company staying through next Christmas.
1) Getting a meat and cheese assortment, not such a bad gift.

I love dear old Maxine..............

Hat Attack

2010-12-02T10:56:00.010-05:00

A few weeks ago, while on a first time ever vacation with all of my siblings and their families, Heather and my niece, Linda were souvenir shopping. While doing so Heather got side tracked in the hat section. She loves hats and she truly was in hat heaven.

If your reading her shirt.....I think it could refer to her this time around.

That's really having your face on a milk carton!

Yip!! She's her father's child!!

I guess, Heather was a bad influence on my niece.

Vacation and Wedding

2010-11-20T10:05:00.004-05:00

November 9th, Tom and I left to head to Branson for a much needed vacation and to attend the wedding on Nov. 13th of my great niece, Crystal Wardlaw to Ricky Bourne.

My 1 brother and 2 sisters and a niece and nephew would join us in condos we all were staying in for the week we were there.

We had been to Branson several times but never at this time of year. The Christmas lights and decorations were up and all the shows and attractions were Christmas themes. My favorite show to attend is always Dixie Stampede, but had never been able to see their Christmas show. It's the best. I loved it!!

Our camera was giving us fits and wasn't taking good pictures so my niece is bringing a disk for me at Thanksgiving, so pictures will come later.

This is one of the bridal party with the happy couple.

Americana Goodwill Bargains

2010-11-04T16:02:00.016-04:00

This Boyds Bear tapestry is my latest GW purchase grouped with some other Boyds I purchased about a year ago.

I have my livingroom and kitchen/diningroom done in Americana.

One Year Ago

2010-10-22T09:19:00.003-04:00

It's been 1 year ago today that I started on a journey to get my blood work and weight under control. It's not always been easy but with the help of the Lord and my dear friends cheering me on along the way, I've lost 72.5 lbs for the year.

I've also gone without the "SWEETS" that I so dearly loved and craved. Which in itself is a miracle. Going without the sweets has help keep my diabetes under control and also helped in less arthritis pain as well.
Many thanks to all of you that have made each and every week something to look forward with your excitement with me and your compliments.
If you have a Facebook and would like to join me in my journey please look up my weight loss page "Lookin' Up On The Weigh Down". It will be fun to share the joys and woes of the everyday life of losing weight.

I just heard this morning that if people didn't start getting serious about the food they eat and their diets that 1 out of 3 will develop diabetes in a few years. That's pretty scary. So, I would urge each and everyone to take a look at you and your family's eating habits and start now before it catches up with you like it did me.

http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Lookin-Up-On-The-Weigh-Down/126120020774885

Pumpkin Crunch

2010-10-15T18:31:00.004-04:00

Sorry, Heather got into it before I could take a picture.

Pumpkin Crunch

1 small can of pumpkin (not mix) 15 or 16 oz.
2 eggs
2 cups of sugar
2 cups of milk
2 Tablespoons of flour
2 Teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice

Topping:
1 box of Betty Crocker Cinnabon Streusel Muffin & Quick Bread Mix
1 stick of butter or margarine
1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans

Mix first 6 ingredients as you would for pumpkin pie mixture. Pour into a sprayed 9x13 pan. Sprinkle with cinnamon spice. In separate bowl mix contents of muffin mix and cinnamon pouch together dry and then sprinkle over pumpkin mixture in pan. Melt butter or margarine and pour over dry muffin mix. Top with nuts. Bake @ 350 for 1 hour. Serve with whip topping or ice cream.

Pumpkin Cheesecake Muffins

2010-10-09T16:21:00.009-04:00

While doing some grocery shopping last weekend, I came across this recipe and thought I would see if they tasted like a place that Heather goes once in a while on Mondays to get their half price muffins. Most of the one we've tried have a cheesecake in the middle and are really yummy.
We made these last Sunday and Heather said they were almost like the real deal. I had froze some of them so they would last longer. She would just take one out the night before and take to work for her breakfast or morning snack.

FILLING
	Crisco® Original No-Stick Cooking Spray
1 (8 oz.)	package cream cheese, softened
1	large egg
2	tablespoons sugar
2	teaspoons grated lemon peel

MUFFINS
1 (14 oz.)	package Pillsbury® Pumpkin Quick Bread
3/4	cup milk
2	tablespoons Crisco® Pure Vegetable Oil
1	large egg
3	tablespoons butter, melted
1/4	cup chopped pecans

1.	HEAT oven to 350°F. Coat 12 muffin cups with no-stick cooking spray.
2.	BEAT cream cheese in medium bowl with electric mixer until soft. Add egg, sugar and lemon peel. Beat until smooth.
3.	PLACE pumpkin bread mix into large bowl. Remove 3/4 cup dry mix and set aside in small bowl to make topping. Add milk, oil and egg to remaining bread mix in large bowl. Stir 50 strokes or until blended.
4.	FILL each muffin cup with about 1/4 cup batter. Make indentation in batter with small measuring spoon sprayed with no-stick cooking spray. Put 1 heaping tablespoon cream cheese mixture in center of each muffin.
5.	ADD melted butter to reserved dry mix. Stir with fork until crumbly. Add pecans. Crumble about 1 tablespoon over each muffin.
6.	BAKE 20 minutes. Cool 10 minutes in pan. Remove muffins from pan. Place on baking rack to finish cooling. Note: I used the less fat cream cheese too and didn't do the crumbs on top either. Used extra virgin oil instead of the vegetable oil too. I left out the lemon peel too cause I didn't have any. I think you could use other flavors of muffin mix and follow this recipe, which we plan to do as well.

Weight Loss Picture Update

2010-09-13T11:12:00.003-04:00

70 lb. lighter me and my favorite hubby and wonderful daughter.
This was taken this past weekend at our annual church Family Life Retreat.
I don't like having my picture taken no matter what size I've been, but for everyone that keeps wondering and asking, your wish is now granted!

Sights and Smells of Fall

2010-09-07T11:05:00.001-04:00

Fall

Besides Spring, the other time of the year I love is just around the corner.
I've heard so many of my friends talk about already decorating some either in ideas or little by little putting it up in doors as well as out side.
Here is a few things I've been putting up today.

I think this mini flag really has us pegged!!

Close up of the center piece

The other exciting thing of fall is with the cooler temperatures, one feels better at turning on that oven and doing some baking.

I don't do as much baking as I once use to (weight loss), but I do keep my eyes open for good ones and especially those that are low calorie or sugar free.

I came across a recipe and I finally tried it the other day. I must say, both Heather and I thought it pretty good. Tom will try it when he comes home for our church Family Life Retreat. I made 2 different batches and froze to take with us.

Cake Mix Banana Bread

1 yellow cake mix (I used the Pillsbury Yellow w/Splenda for one batch)
5 ripe bananas
3 eggs
Mix all ingredients together and put in 2 greased or sprayed loaf pans. Bake at 350 for 40 minutes.

Hope you will enjoy this time of the year as much as I do. Cause you know what's a comin' next!!
UGH!!!

Update On The Weight Loss

2010-09-05T16:31:00.002-04:00

It's been a little while since I reported on my journey of downsizing. As of this past Friday, I have lost a total of 69.2 lbs. I know I could not have made it thus far without the help of the Lord and my ever so many friends that keep me encouraged on Facebook.

I have arthritis pretty bad, but that has been better. I'm not able to walk or do much of any exercise of any kind. I just stick to eating healthy and stay away from the sweets, which I was so addicted to. I usually have fresh fruit, but have found a few sugar free recipes for special times. It seems like my body doesn't miss the good bake goods I use to make and buy.

I have went down 4 sizes in clothes, so that's been a challenge. I had saved a few of my favorites from when I was smaller so that helped but they are long gone in the too big category. I have had to buy a few items but being careful cause I'm not planning on staying in them forever!!

I'm bad at having my picture taken but I will see what I can do about that in the next few weeks.
I will try at least to have one for my 1 year down anniversary in October.

The Three Of Us

2010-09-02T18:41:00.002-04:00

Well, maybe not we as a family.......

I was feeling a little mischievous and nothing else to do in my blog.

Indiana State Fair 2010

2010-08-17T16:07:00.012-04:00

On Friday the 13th Tom, Heather and I visited the Indiana State Fair and thought I would share a few pictures of that day.

This is the sculpture made out of cheese this year.
The theme for this years fair was the PIG

Sculpture made out of dirt/sand

One side of the sculpture

The other side

Heather with Turkey Hill Ice Cream and Cow
They were giving away little cups of ice cream

Statue outside 4-H building
Looked like the couple that they used to advertise Country Cornflakes back in my day.

A close up of the suitcase

A cake to look like a box of chocolates

Thought this was cute .

Heather likes monkeys and this was a cake that a 4-H kid did.

5 MINUTE - KEY LIME PIE

2010-07-29T14:32:00.002-04:00

1/4 cup water

1 package (4-serving size) sugar-free lime-flavor gelatin

2 containers (6 oz.) fat-free key lime pie yogurt (I buy the one that's sugar-free as well)

1 tub (8oz) frozen reduced-fat non-dairy whipped topping. (I use sugar-free)

1 reduced-fat graham cracker pie crust

1.) In microwave-safe measuring cup, heat water on high for 45 seconds to 1 1/2 minutes or until boiling. Whisk in gelatin until dissolved.

2.) In large bowl whisk together gelatin mixture and yogurt. Fold in whipped topping. Carefully spread in crust. Refrigerate at least 4 hours or until set.

3.) Garnish as desired. Store in refrigerator.

Note: You could change up the flavor by choosing the yogurt with a coordinating flavor of gelatin.

July Family Picnic

2010-07-17T15:48:00.009-04:00

On July 10th my family got together for a picnic at a fairly new park here in town. It even has a water pipe area next to the playground with 4 shelters and basketball court.

My niece, Linda furnished most of the food and the rest of us brought salads and desserts.
Some even played cornhole and took turns riding Tom's new fold up bicycle he bought to take along with him on the road.

It was a fun day!!

Chocolate "Minute" Mug Cake

2010-07-06T13:12:00.002-04:00

I got this recipe in my e-mail the other day and thought I would pass it along for you chocolate lovers and for those who eat sweets unlike myself.

Chocolate "Minute" Mug Cake

4 tablespoons Flour
4 tablespoons Sugar
2 tablespoons Cocoa -- (baking)
1 Egg -- beaten
3 tablespoons Milk
3 tablespoons Vegetable Oil
3 tablespoons Chocolate Chips -- (optional)
1 tablespoon Chopped Nuts -- (optional)
dash Vanilla Extract

Using a large coffee mug, add dry ingredients to mug, and mix well. Add the egg and mix thoroughly. Pour in the milk and oil and mix well. Add the chocolate chips and nuts (if using) and vanilla, and mix again. Put your mug in the microwave and cook for 3 minutes on high. The cake will rise over the top of the mug, but don't be alarmed! Allow to cool a little, and tip out onto a plate if desired. EAT! (this can serve 2 if you want to share!)

Happy Birthday, Heather!!!

2010-06-15T00:18:00.003-04:00

Today is my baby's Birthday.
Officially born at 11:20 A.M.

If any of my readers have Heather as a friend on Facebook, please go to her wall and help make her day special.

Our Flag

2010-06-14T11:32:00.003-04:00

I Am the Flag of the

Of America

I am the flag of the United States of America.
My name is Old Glory.
I fly atop the world's tallest buildings.
I stand watch in America's halls of justice.
I fly majestically over institutions of learning.
I stand guard with power in the world.
Look up and see me.

I stand for peace, honor, truth and justice.
I stand for freedom.
I am confident.
I am arrogant.
I am proud.
When I am flown with my fellow banners,
My head is a little higher,
My colors a little truer.
I bow to no one!
I am recognized all over the world.
I am worshipped - I am saluted.
I am loved - I am revered.
I am respected - and I am feared.
I have fought in every battle of every war for more then 200 years. I was flown at Valley Forge, Gettysburg, Shiloh and Appomattox.
I was there at San Juan Hill, the trenches of France,
in the Argonne Forest, Anzio, Rome and the beaches of Normandy.
Guam, Okinawa, Korea and KheSan, Saigon, Vietnam know me.
I'm presently in the mountains of Afganistan and the hot and dusty deserts of Iraq and wherever freedom is needed.
I led my troops, I was dirty, battleworn and tired,
But my soldiers cheered me and I was proud.
I have been burned, torn and trampled on the streets of countries I have helped set free.
It does not hurt for I am invincible.
I have been soiled upon, burned, torn and trampled in the streets of my country.
And when it's done by those Whom I've served in battle - it hurts.
But I shall overcome - for I am strong.
I have slipped the bonds of Earth and stood watch over the uncharted frontiers of space from my vantage point on the moon.
I have borne silent witness to all of America's finest hours.
But my finest hours are yet to come.
When I am torn into strips and used as bandages for my wounded comrades on the battlefield,
When I am flown at half-mast to honor my soldier,
Or when I lie in the trembling arms of a grieving parent
at the grave of their fallen son or daughter,

I am proud.

A Couple of Quick Sugar Free Recipes

2010-05-17T17:50:00.003-04:00

As most of you know, since the last of Oct. 2009 going without sweets. I'm a diabetic and my blood work had gotten out of hand. So that day I came away from the doctor's office a little upset at myself and for 2 days had a pity party, which no one showed up except myself. I decided to take matters in my own hands with the help from the Lord and quit sweets cold turkey. Ever once in a while we fix sugar free jello or pudding but usually stick with fresh fruits.

I thought I would share a couple of recipes that I have tasted in the last several weeks and they were a hit with both Heather as well as myself. They are both very simple and short. We were at my niece's house and since her dad has newly been diagnosed with diabetes she had made some things he could eat. She told me to try them as well.

Cooked Apples w/Sugar Free Maple Syrup

You just peel and slice some apples of choice into a sauce pan along with some sugar free maple syrup sprinkled with some cinnamon until done. Very good and makes the house smell good all the while cooking.

The other one was done by my sister-in-law on Mother's Day when the family got together.

Flavored Apple Sauce

You take no sugar added apple sauce and add a small box of sugar free strawberry jello to it. Depending the size a jar of apple sauce you use, add either whole box or go by your taste.

Update On The Weigh Down

2010-05-12T17:54:00.004-04:00

Thought I would update everyone on my weight loss since it's been a few weeks. I now have lost 50lbs..
While looking for a picture to go along with the update, I came across an article of a woman wanting to gain weight so she can be the largest woman in the Guinness World Book of Records. As of the article she was like 43rd in the ranking. I can't imagine what would ever make a human being of any gender want to do such a thing. She spends like 750.00 a week in food in order for her to eat the amount to gain. She also has a website that people pay in order to watch her eat the food. Whatever floats her boat.
It's also been 28 weeks now going without sweets other than sugar free pudding or jello once in a while. I feel a lot better and my arthritis is doing better as well.

Tom's Work Outside Our Home

2010-04-15T14:43:00.009-04:00

Tom was off the road for 2 whole days to do some work around the house mainly outside.
The weather was beautiful both days. Thought I would share a few things he did while at home.

Our Home

Tom took out some old shrubs and planted Creeping Phlox, Hibiscus Bush and another Rose Bush along with my figurines. I might end having him plant a few other things later.

The tree in our front yard where he replaced the old ugly faded mulch with white marble rock.

The side of the garage where Tom replaced the old ugly faded mulch with river rock.

Congratulations!!! Heather

2010-04-05T21:40:00.002-04:00

Heather's first semester of her nursing classes are finished. Last week she was enjoying her much needed spring break. Tonight it was back to classes.
She text me right before her class began to let me know she made the Dean's List. 2 A's and 2 A-'s.

This semester she will be going an extra night to class. So Monday through Friday nights 5:30 p.m. to 10:10 p.m. and clinical on Saturdays. Plus, she works 30 hrs. a week at her job.

Yay!! Congrats!! For a job well done!

Pina Colada Cake

2010-03-29T13:47:00.010-04:00

A few of you know that for 22 weeks now I haven't eaten sweets unless they were sugar free or diabetic approved. They results have been almost 45lbs in weight loss. I found this recipe so I thought I would pass it along.

1 package (14 1/2 oz) angel food cake mix
1 can (8 oz) unsweetened crushed pineapple
8 oz sugar free frozen whipped topping, thawed
1/2 cup (2 oz) toasted coconut

Heat oven to 350°F. Spray a 13x9-inch baking dish with cooking spray.

In large bowl, stir together cake mix and pineapple. Pour into prepared baking dish.

Bake 20 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out almost clean. Cool completely on a rack.

Spread whipped topping over cake. Sprinkle with coconut. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Spring Cleaning/Organizing

2010-03-23T14:09:00.002-04:00

Well, spring finally made it here via the calendar. It's not been too bad weather wise as well.
I've been in the mood to spring clean and clear out the clutter that has accumulated over the winter months. I have a couple of websites I've been looking over to get some ideas on organizing stuff so it looks better .........at least to me.

http://www.diynetwork.com/maximum-value-projects-storage/package/index.html

http://www.homemakingorganized.com/

Hope you all enjoy spring and what it has to bring whether in cleaning, organizing, or just plain having fun.

Update on Weight Loss

2010-03-12T12:49:00.002-05:00

Hello!
Just thought I would let you know that it's been 20 weeks now and I have lost a total of 38.5 lbs. Due to my arthritis I haven't been able to do exercise so mainly just not eating sweets and a well balanced diet is all I'm doing.

Oreo Delight

2010-03-08T15:29:00.001-05:00

35 Oreo cookies (1 whole pkg.) - I prefer mint flavor
6 Tbsp. margarine, melted
1 pkg. cream cheese, softened
1/4 c. sugar
2 Tbsp. milk
1 (12 oz.) tub Cool Whip, thawed
3 1/4 c. cold milk
2 pkg. instant Jell-O pudding
optional: more crushed Oreos or Andes Mint baking chips to sprinkle on top

Mix crushed cookies and butter in medium bowl. Press firmly onto bottom of 9" x 13" baking dish. Refrigerate for 10 minutes. Beat cream cheese, sugar, and 2 Tbsp. milk in medium bowl with wire whisk until blended. Stir in 1 1/4 c. Cook Whip. Spread over crust. Pour 3 1/4 c. milk into bowl. Add both pudding mixes. Beat with wire whisk for 2 minutes. Pour over cream cheese layer. Let stand 5 minutes. Drop remaining Cool Whip over pudding and spread. Sprinkle more crushed Oreos or Andes Mint baking chips on top. Refrigerate at least 4 hours

2 Feet of Snow!!!

2010-02-27T15:22:00.003-05:00

Thought this was so funny yet cool looking. Not sure who the sculptor was, but I like it.

Getting An Early Start

2010-02-15T12:52:00.006-05:00

Well, as you can see I've already changed my background.
It's something I really enjoy. Plus, I have Irish in my blood somewhere. It's my sister that's into all that searching out the dead ones of the past. I try to stay among the living.

2010-02-14T13:09:00.002-05:00

To all my friends from Tom and I.

Welcome Baby Eli Payton Hall

2010-01-31T14:25:00.008-05:00

Friday the 29th of January my nephew, Erick and wife, Junia welcomed their 4th child into their family.
This child was no everyday birth, but a miracle. You see just about 8 months ago Junia was suddenly stricken with pain and her stomach and was enlarging, only to be taken to the hospital just in time to save her life but find out that she had suffered a tubal pregnancy. Due to all the circumstances surrounding this tubal her doctor wanted to make sure her insides were healing and everything was ok so the doctor scheduled 2 weeks later to have an ultrasound. That's when the tech said something about a baby. Junia said yes that she found out 2 weeks earlier that she was pregnant but had a tubal and complications and that was why her doctor wanted to make sure everything was going ok. The tech again tried to tell her she was pregnant. Finally the tech convinced them they were truly pregnant and going to have a baby, which later they would discover Junia had been pregnant with twins which were not identical and each having their own sack, the one was caught in the tube and the other was where it was suppose to be all along.
God is truly good!!

Eli Payton Hall

Mom Junia and Baby Eli

Nathan, Kyle, Jerricka and Baby Eli

He Keeps The Keys

2010-01-11T23:25:00.000-05:00

Is there some problem in your life to solve,
Some passage seeming full of mystery?
God knows, who brings the hidden things to light.
He holds the key.

Is there some door closed by the Father's hand
Which widely opened you had hoped to see?
Trust God and wait---for when He shuts the door
He keeps the key.

Is there some earnest prayer unanswered yet,
Or answered NOT as you had thought 'twould be?
God will make clear His purpose by-and -by.
He keeps the key.

Have patience with your God, your patient God,
All wise, all knowing, no long tarrier He,
And of the door of all thy future life
He keeps the key.

Unfailing comfort, sweet and blessed rest,
To know of EVERY door He keeps the key.
That He at last when just HE sees 'tis best,
Will give it THEE.

~~~~Anonymous

When Thou Passest Through The Waters

2010-01-06T14:00:00.001-05:00

"When thou passest through the waters"
Deep the waves may be and cold
But Jehovah is our refuge,
And His promise is our hold;
For the Lord Himself hath said it,
He, the faithful God and true:
"When thou comest to the waters
Thou shalt not go down, BUT THROUGH."
Seas of sorrow, seas of trail,
Bitterest anguish, fiercest pain,
Rolling surges of temptation
Sweeping over heart and brain-----
They shall never overflow us
For we know His word is true;
All His waves and all His billows
He will lead us safely THROUGH.
Threatening breaker of destruction,
Doubt's insidious undertow,
Shall not sink us, shall not drag us
Out to ocean depths of woe;
For His promise shall sustain us,
Praise the Lord, whose Word is true!
We shall not go down, or under,
For He saith, "Thou passest THROUGH."

~~~~ ANNE JOHNSON FLINT

Welcome 2010

2010-01-01T00:08:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year

Everybody!!!

Beef N' Tot Casserole

2009-12-19T18:57:00.000-05:00

1 pound Ground Beef, lean
1/2 small Onion -- minced
1 pound Tater Tots
10 1/2 ounces Cream of Chicken Soup, condensed
1 pound Cheddar Cheese, shredded

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Brown ground beef with minced onion in a skillet. Drain off any excess fat, and set aside to cool at least 10 minutes. Once beef is cooled, mix cream of chicken soup into mixture, and place into a greased cake pan or small casserole dish. Cover with frozen Tater Tots. Top with cheese. Bake for 30 - 45 minutes.

To freeze for later use: Cover casserole after adding cheese, label, and freeze for up to 6 months. To use, thaw overnight in refrigerator, and bake for 30 - 45 minutes.

Chocolate Lush

2009-12-13T15:42:00.005-05:00

1 1/2 cups of flour
1 1/2 sticks of butter or margarine, melted
1/2 cup of chopped nuts

Press in 9x13 pan. Bake @ 350 degrees for 15 mins. Cool

1 8oz. cream cheese
1 cup of powdered sugar
1 cup cool whip out of 16 oz. container

Mix and spread over cooled crust.

* 2 small boxes of chocolate pudding (regular or sugar free)
3 cups of milk

Mix and pour over cream cheese mixture.

Repeat above step with vanilla pudding. Top with remaining cool whip and sprinkle with chopped nuts. Refrigerate

* Note: If you would like to omit the chocolate pudding and do different flavors like lemon or coconut etc. you can. I have also did peanut butter by omitting the chocolate step all together and adding peanut butter to the vanilla pudding ( amount of peanut butter depends on your liking).

Hot Fudge Cake/ Hot Fudge Topping

2009-12-04T19:08:00.002-05:00

1 chocolate cake mix of your choice and baked as directed in a 9x13 pan. Cool

1/2 gal. carton of vanilla ice cream (slice ice cream in squares)

Cut cake into square pieces to match ice cream. Then slice each piece so you have a top and bottom. Place the slice of ice cream between the top and bottom. Top with hot fudge topping.

Hot Fudge Topping:

5 tablespoons of Cocoa
4 heaping tablespoons of flour
2 cups of sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 cups of milk
1 teaspoon of vanilla

Mix dry ingredients first, then add the rest. Cook till thick stirring constantly.

Happy Birthday!!

2009-12-03T13:54:00.003-05:00

My favorite hubby is celebrating an anniversary of his 39th year.
He's the best truck driver I know!!
Happy Birthday!!
Love You, Tom!!

Pictures From Thanksgiving

2009-11-30T12:11:00.006-05:00

This is my nephew's wife Junia who's expecting their 4th child the first part of January.
Of course, Tom is always acting crazy so my niece took this in comparison. lol

My brother, Donald (Donnie) , oldest. Norma (Sue) right. Caroline left. Me in the middle and the youngest.

Here is all of my nieces and nephews
Backrow: Brenda 2nd oldest, Erick 5th oldest, Jared 6th oldest, Darin 4th oldest.
Frontrow: Linda oldest, Diana 3rd oldest, Heather 7th and the youngest

Cream Cheese/ Salsa Dip

2009-11-29T16:21:00.002-05:00

1 8oz. cream cheese
1 jar of salsa
1 can of no bean chili (optional)

In microwaveable dish add some salsa and cream cheese. Cover and microwave a couple of minutes and stir. Do this until cream cheese is melted and smooth, then add chili if desired. Depending on the number of people to be served you can add another cream cheese and more salsa to nice consistency, but 1 can of the chili is enough usually. Serve hot with tortilla chips.

Sugar-Free Cocoa Mix

2009-11-19T12:25:00.002-05:00

2 cups Nonfat Dry Milk Powder
1/2 cup Nondairy Creamer, fat-free -- Powder
1/2 cup Cocoa Powder
10 packets Equal® sweetener -- or Splenda sweetener
3/4 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon

Combine dry ingredients. Place in a zip baggie and store up to three months. Maybe done in larger quantity to put in gift jars.

To use mix:

Sugar-free Cocoa

For each serving, in a heat-proof mug add 3/4 C. of boiling water to 1/3 C. Sugar-free Cocoa Mix; stir to dissolve. Enjoy!

Note: Print instructions on a decorative card and attach to mix for gift giving. Instructions can also be printed onto large labels and placed onto zip baggies before filling with mixes when making several mixes.

Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 115 Calories; 1g Fat (6.4% calories from fat); 7g Protein; 22g Carbohydrate; 2g Dietary Fiber; 3mg Cholesterol; 95mg Sodium.

Exchanges: 0 Grain(Starch); 0 Lean Meat; 1/2 Non-Fat Milk; 0 Fat; 1/2 Other Carbohydrates.

Sweet Potato Casserole

2009-11-16T13:53:00.002-05:00

6 or 7 sweet potatoes (I boil in large pan with skin on then peel later to mash)
1/2 c. sugar *
1/2 c. milk
2 eggs (beaten)
2 t. vanilla
1 stick of butter (may use other) *

*Note: I use baking Splenda and also cut down on the butter. Seems to be fine. The baking Splenda is half and half. I've never used the plain Splenda. I think the baking kind might only use half the amount so read in case. I know the Brown Sugar Splenda use only use half of what the recipe calls for. I just go by taste.

Topping:
1 c. brown sugar ( I use Splenda Brown Sugar so only 1/2 c.)
1 c. flour
1 stick of butter (melted) I just enough to make mixture crumble.
1 c. chopped nuts

Mix sweet potatoes, milk, sugar, eggs, vanilla and butter in mixing bowl with electric mixer. Pour into 9x13 baking pan or dish. Set aside. Mix topping ingredients and crumble evenly over sweet potato mixture. Bake @ 350 for 30 mins.

Check This Out

2009-11-14T16:13:00.003-05:00

Wanted to let you all know that if you have a facebook account and you have a few pounds or a lot like myself to lose you might want to join my new facebook group.

Lookin' Up on the Weigh Down

Please feel free to check it out. 3 weeks ago this past Friday, I quit sweets cold turkey. After reading all the comments on what I'd been doing and the weight I'd been losing several suggested I start a group for encouragement.

Easy Cinnamon Rolls

2009-11-05T19:42:00.000-05:00

5 cups of flour
1 yellow cake mix (dry)
2 1/2 cups warm water (reserve 1/2 c. to add to it 2 pkg. yeast)

Mix all above ingredients. Let rise 2 times in size.

Roll out, put melted butter or margarine on dough. Sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar mixture.
May add nuts or raisins. Roll up and slice. Place in greased pans. Let rise a little. Bake @ 350 degrees about 15-20 mins. Makes 3 to 4 doz.

Note: I roll all the dough out at the same time so it takes a pretty long counter space or table.

I make a powdered sugar icing with some water or you can make a cream cheese icing to spread on top.

Broccoli Slaw

2009-11-02T02:29:00.000-05:00

This recipe was given to me by my good friend Mary Stetler. She and the recipe are wonderful!!

1 bag of broccoli slaw
2 bags of Ramen noodles (chicken uncooked) break apart
1 small bunch green onions cut up
1/4 cup sunflower seeds
1/2 cup or more slivered almonds or pecans

Put above ingredients in large bowl. Set aside.

Dressing:
1 cup oil
1/2 cup sugar (can use Splenda)
1/3 cup apple cider vinegar
2 packets of seasoning from Ramen noodles

Mix these together and then add to other ingredients. Let set overnight or longer.

Heather and Work

2009-10-30T21:07:00.000-04:00

This is Heather dressed up as a Woopie Cushion for Halloween as you can see. Just had to share it with you. Now you know she takes after her father and not me.

I will post a recipe another day.

Taco Casserole

2009-10-22T14:35:00.000-04:00

2lbs. hamburger
1 small onion, chopped
1 pkg. taco seasoning
1 can refried beans
1 bag tortilla chips
1 80z. sour cream
1 jar taco sauce or salsa
1 8oz. pkg. shredded cheese

Brown hamburger with onion. Drain. Season with taco seasoning and water(according to pkg directions). Stir in beans. Crumble 1/2 bag of chips in a sprayed 9 x13 pan. Put taco mixture on top of chips. Cover with sour cream, taco sauce or salsa and cheese. Crumble rest of chips and put on top. Bake 350 for 10-15 minutes or until hot.

Pumpkin Dip

2009-10-16T11:50:00.000-04:00

2 8oz. pk. of cream cheese (softened) I use the light
3/4 c. canned pumpkin
2 tablespoons taco seasoning
1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder
1/3 cup chopped dried beef
1/3 cup chopped green pepper
1/3 cup chopped red pepper
1 small can chopped black olives (drained)

Mix together and serve with Frito's scoops. Best if made a day before serving.

Note: This is one of my most requested recipes. The pumpkin is to give it color and doesn't even taste like pumpkin. More Mexican favor. Wonderful. I take this to our Thanksgiving family get together.

Chess Bars

2009-10-08T18:15:00.000-04:00

1 box yellow cake mix (dry)
1 stick of butter, melted
1 egg
1 c. chopped nuts

Mix above ingredients and press into 9x13 pan that has been sprayed with cooking spray. Set aside.

1 lb. box of powdered sugar
1 8 oz. cream cheese (regular or light only)
2 eggs

Beat above ingredients until smooth. Pour over cake mixture and bake 325 for 45 mins. or until light brown. Let cool. Cut into bars.

Peanut Butter Pie/ Dip

2009-10-02T17:07:00.001-04:00

1 8 oz. cream cheese (light or original)
1 16 oz. whip topping
3/4 to 1 cup peanut butter
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 cup powdered sugar

Cream the cream cheese and peanut butter together add vanilla and powdered sugar until well blended. Add half or a little more of the whip topping. Put into baked pie shell or graham cracker crust. Top with remaining whip topping. Chill until ready to serve.

This makes also a great dip for apple slices and graham cracker sticks. (Note: If just making for dip an 8 oz. whip topping will do.)

Thought I would add a couple of pictures of some fall things I have outside.

Pumpkin Crunch

2009-09-24T13:42:00.000-04:00

1 small can of pumpkin (not mix) 15 or 16 oz.
2 eggs
2 cups of sugar
2 cups of milk
2 Tablespoons of flour
2 Teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice
1 box of Betty Crocker Cinnabon Streusel Muffin & Quick Bread Mix
1 stick of butter or margarine
1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans

Mix first 6 ingredients as you would for pumpkin pie mixture. Pour into a sprayed 9x13 pan. Sprinkle with cinnamon spice. In separate bowl mix contents of muffin mix and cinnamon pouch together dry and then sprinkle over pumpkin mixture in pan. Melt butter or margarine and pour over dry muffin mix. Top with nuts. Bake @ 350 for 1 hour. Serve with whip topping.

I use to get Blue Bunny Brand Cinnamon ice cream around the fall of each year at Wal-Mart Supercenter but haven't been able to find it the past couple of years. It was fantastic with this.

Enjoy! I have had great reviews and requests for this.

Trying A Different Angle

2009-09-24T13:29:00.000-04:00

Hello!
I'm not really new at blogging cause I had a blog sometime ago and got bored with it and deleted it. I had become more interested in Facebook.
Yesterday, I had wrote my husband on fb cause I kept forgetting to ask him what kind of dessert he would like to have on his next time home. I got several asking for the recipes of the choices I gave so I thought it would be kind of nice to do a recipe blog. So here marks the start of a new day!