These are a cute idea that my daughter and I used to do when we lived with my Parents.
Sure, now I am anti food in the bedroom, but back then, living in a 4 bedroom house, with 7 people and a dog - it didnt seem to bother me so much if it meant time away with my little one :-)
This makes enough for about 4-6 depending on the serving size!
1 box Kraft Mac-n-Cheese (prepare according to box)
Crinkle Cut Fries - about 6 fries per person
1 lb ground beef seasoned for hamburgers minus the bread crumbs and egg. (I like to use Turkey)
Hamburger toppings
*Pickles
*Ketchup
*Mustard
*Tomatoes
*Onions
Cook Mac-n-cheese as directed.
Season ground meat for burgers, cook fully in skillet, crumble.
Serve as directed-
Portion the mac-n-cheese and meat so that there are two parts mac, and one part beef.
Let the kids get creative and add the toppings to the bowl that they would add on their burger.
Seriously, you think Mustard would be nasty on Mac-n-cheese, but when you add the meat and seasonings, its really yummy!
I don't recommend lettuce as it will wilt with the heat!!
Also, you can always sub the fries for a salad!
- Patty
The All-in-One Parent
Tuesday, October 16, 2012
Wednesday, October 10, 2012
Free Money??
Check out these two contest running this month on our page!!
You could win one of two $15 Gift Cards!!
WHO DOESN'T LOVE FREE MONEY?!?!
We have two contest running through the month of October!
Why not try your hand in winning one of two $15 Gift Cards??
Stop by our page today *LIKE US* and enter to win!!
All e-mail's should be sent to:
SAHMandD@gmail.com
Please make sure to put "Contest 1" or "Contest 2" in the subject line!
You could win one of two $15 Gift Cards!!
WHO DOESN'T LOVE FREE MONEY?!?!
We have two contest running through the month of October!
Why not try your hand in winning one of two $15 Gift Cards??
Stop by our page today *LIKE US* and enter to win!!
All e-mail's should be sent to:
SAHMandD@gmail.com
Please make sure to put "Contest 1" or "Contest 2" in the subject line!
♥ Contest 1-
Like our page, and send us an e-mail to let us know who you are!!
Include your name, and make sure to put "Contest #1" in the subject line!
You can e-mail us no more than once a day, and each time you e-mail us, we will put your name into a jar!
We will pull a winner October 31, 2012, and we will announce the winner on our page. The winner will have 24 hours to contact us via e-mail to claim the prize!
♥ Contest 2 -
After you have liked our page, and sent us that e-mail, Post a cute picture of your little one in their Halloween costume.
You may post NO MORE than ONE photo PER CHILD.
Include the child's name, age, and what they were for Halloween.
Page members will have a chance to vote for the Photo by "liking" the picture.
We will let you post pictures and do voting until November 2nd, so you all have a chance to get those photos off the digital cameras!
NO PROFESSIONAL PHOTOS WILL BE POSTED!!!
This is all about seeing the child through Mommy or Daddy's eyes ♥
The winner of this contest will also win a $15 Gift Card to Walmart or Target.
- The All-in-One Parent Admin Team ♥
Like our page, and send us an e-mail to let us know who you are!!
Include your name, and make sure to put "Contest #1" in the subject line!
You can e-mail us no more than once a day, and each time you e-mail us, we will put your name into a jar!
We will pull a winner October 31, 2012, and we will announce the winner on our page. The winner will have 24 hours to contact us via e-mail to claim the prize!
♥ Contest 2 -
After you have liked our page, and sent us that e-mail, Post a cute picture of your little one in their Halloween costume.
You may post NO MORE than ONE photo PER CHILD.
Include the child's name, age, and what they were for Halloween.
Page members will have a chance to vote for the Photo by "liking" the picture.
We will let you post pictures and do voting until November 2nd, so you all have a chance to get those photos off the digital cameras!
NO PROFESSIONAL PHOTOS WILL BE POSTED!!!
This is all about seeing the child through Mommy or Daddy's eyes ♥
The winner of this contest will also win a $15 Gift Card to Walmart or Target.
- The All-in-One Parent Admin Team ♥
Cucumber Sandwiches
Another one of Grandma's Favorites!!
2 - 8 oz bricks cream cheese
1 - 0.7 envelope of Good Seasoning's Italian Dressing Mix
1 large English Cucumber (seedless)
2 loafs Pepperidge Farm Party Rye Bread
Mix the Cream Cheese and Dressing mix until fully blended.
Peel the Cucumber, and slice thinly (almost see through).
Apply a thin layer of the spread to a piece of the bread, and top with a slice of Cucumber.
DO NOT top this sandwich, it is a finger sandwich.
When storing, use an air tight container, and use wax paper between layers.
Don't worry about how long left overs will last, THERE WILL NOT BE ANY!!!
- Patty
The All-in-One Parent on FaceBook
2 - 8 oz bricks cream cheese
1 - 0.7 envelope of Good Seasoning's Italian Dressing Mix
1 large English Cucumber (seedless)
2 loafs Pepperidge Farm Party Rye Bread
Mix the Cream Cheese and Dressing mix until fully blended.
Peel the Cucumber, and slice thinly (almost see through).
Apply a thin layer of the spread to a piece of the bread, and top with a slice of Cucumber.
DO NOT top this sandwich, it is a finger sandwich.
When storing, use an air tight container, and use wax paper between layers.
Don't worry about how long left overs will last, THERE WILL NOT BE ANY!!!
- Patty
The All-in-One Parent on FaceBook
Marshmallow Salad
My Grandmother used to make this every time we had a family gathering. I was debating on posting this, but I know she wouldn't mind sharing if she were still here today :-)
Marshmallow Salad - serves 10-12
1 - 16oz tub sour cream
2 - 5oz cans of Mandarin Oranges, drained
1 - 12 oz can Pineapple tid bits, drained. (Can use chunks, cut in half if needed)
1 bag Mini Marshmallows
Mix all ingredients together and chill before serving.
I know, so simple, and almost like Ambrosia, but not the same!!
Its perfect, sweet, and makes a lot!!
- Patty
The All-in-One Parent on FaceBook
Marshmallow Salad - serves 10-12
1 - 16oz tub sour cream
2 - 5oz cans of Mandarin Oranges, drained
1 - 12 oz can Pineapple tid bits, drained. (Can use chunks, cut in half if needed)
1 bag Mini Marshmallows
Mix all ingredients together and chill before serving.
I know, so simple, and almost like Ambrosia, but not the same!!
Its perfect, sweet, and makes a lot!!
- Patty
The All-in-One Parent on FaceBook
31 Days of Halloween - Day 10
Today's Halloween idea is for the ADULTS!!!
Why shouldn't we be able to have an evening out without the kids to celebrate Halloween with our friends, and have fun?
This web site has a list of Halloween Themed Adult Drinks that can be Fun, Spooky, and tasty at the same time!!
Parties van be fun, and an adult time out is always nice, but please, remember to DRINK RESPONSIBLY!!!
http://www.drinknation.com/theme/halloween
- Patty
The All-in-One Parent on FaceBook
Why shouldn't we be able to have an evening out without the kids to celebrate Halloween with our friends, and have fun?
This web site has a list of Halloween Themed Adult Drinks that can be Fun, Spooky, and tasty at the same time!!
Parties van be fun, and an adult time out is always nice, but please, remember to DRINK RESPONSIBLY!!!
http://www.drinknation.com/theme/halloween
- Patty
The All-in-One Parent on FaceBook
Tuesday, October 9, 2012
Yummy filled Sugar Cookies!
I use this easy Sugar Cookie recipe for drop cookies, sprinkle cookies, and filled cookies!
For filled cookies, use a mini muffin tin. This recipe makes 48 cookies
ALL COOKIES BAKE FOR 10 MINUTES AT 350*
2 3/4 C. Flour
1 tsp. Baking Soda
1/2 tsp. Baking Powder
1 c. butter, softened
1 1/2 c. White Sugar
1 Egg
1 Tsp. Vanilla Extract
Preheat oven to 350*
In small bowl sift together flour, Baking Soda and Baking Powder and set aside.
In large bowl cream butter and sugar together. Add egg and vanilla, mix on medium until smooth.
Slowly add the flour to the butter and sugar mixture.
For CANDY Filled Cookies -
If your making candy filled cookies, use the dough right away. Make a 1 inch ball and flatten it in the palm of your hand, take your candy (I use rolos), and then shape the cookie dough around the candy, and place in the greased mini muffin tins.
OR
Roll into 1" balls, and drop into tins - bake 10 minutes, and as soon as you pull them out of the oven, press the candies into the top of the cookies.
Pull out and let cool for 2 minutes, then remove and place on wire racks. When completely cool, store in air tight container.
For Cookies filled with Jam, Spread, or Pie filling -
If your filling your cookies with Jelly, a spread, or a pie type filling, roll the cookie dough into 1" balls and drop into the greased tins.
Bake 10 minutes.
Pull out from oven, and immediately use a tart press to put a 1/4" - 1/2" deep hole on the top of the cookie.
I use 1/4" for Jelly or Spread (I use Nutella!), and /2" for Pie fillings.
At this point, you can let cool, and store until you are ready to serve.
When filling, you can just use a butter knife to plop a dollop of your filling on the hole, of for a spread, or icing filling, you can use a pipping bag.
Fresh out of the oven -
From left to right - Rolo topped cookies, Rolo filled cookies, Nutella filled cookies.
- Patty
The All-in-One Parent on FaceBook
For filled cookies, use a mini muffin tin. This recipe makes 48 cookies
ALL COOKIES BAKE FOR 10 MINUTES AT 350*
2 3/4 C. Flour
1 tsp. Baking Soda
1/2 tsp. Baking Powder
1 c. butter, softened
1 1/2 c. White Sugar
1 Egg
1 Tsp. Vanilla Extract
Preheat oven to 350*
In small bowl sift together flour, Baking Soda and Baking Powder and set aside.
In large bowl cream butter and sugar together. Add egg and vanilla, mix on medium until smooth.
Slowly add the flour to the butter and sugar mixture.
For CANDY Filled Cookies -
If your making candy filled cookies, use the dough right away. Make a 1 inch ball and flatten it in the palm of your hand, take your candy (I use rolos), and then shape the cookie dough around the candy, and place in the greased mini muffin tins.
OR
Roll into 1" balls, and drop into tins - bake 10 minutes, and as soon as you pull them out of the oven, press the candies into the top of the cookies.
Pull out and let cool for 2 minutes, then remove and place on wire racks. When completely cool, store in air tight container.
For Cookies filled with Jam, Spread, or Pie filling -
If your filling your cookies with Jelly, a spread, or a pie type filling, roll the cookie dough into 1" balls and drop into the greased tins.
Bake 10 minutes.
Pull out from oven, and immediately use a tart press to put a 1/4" - 1/2" deep hole on the top of the cookie.
I use 1/4" for Jelly or Spread (I use Nutella!), and /2" for Pie fillings.
At this point, you can let cool, and store until you are ready to serve.
When filling, you can just use a butter knife to plop a dollop of your filling on the hole, of for a spread, or icing filling, you can use a pipping bag.
Fresh out of the oven -
From left to right - Rolo topped cookies, Rolo filled cookies, Nutella filled cookies.
- Patty
The All-in-One Parent on FaceBook
FaceBook??
If you love what you read in this blog, check us out on FaceBook and join the conversations there <3
The All-in-One Parent on FaceBook
- Patty
The All-in-One Parent on FaceBook
- Patty
Oven Baked Mayo Chicken!
Yes, the name sounds a little strange, and I'm sure you have seen some of the recipes on TV for things like this. But I promise you that this is different, and you can flavor it any way you like!!
This recipe serves 4
2 Chicken breast halves, filleted
1/2 cup Real Mayo, Fat free
2 tbsp your choice seasoning*
1/3 cup Bread Crumbs
Place Chicken in a 8" x 8" square glass pan.
In a bowl, mix together mayo and seasoning until well blended.
Use a rubber spatula to spread the mayo mixture over the chicken. Sprinkle with bread crumbs.
Bake at 350 for 35 - 40 minutes of until chicken is no longer pink.
*If you can, try to stick with a Salt Free seasoning, like Mrs. Dash, or McCormick Blends. If your seasoning contains salt, cut it back to 1 tbsp.
<3 Patty
This recipe serves 4
2 Chicken breast halves, filleted
1/2 cup Real Mayo, Fat free
2 tbsp your choice seasoning*
1/3 cup Bread Crumbs
Place Chicken in a 8" x 8" square glass pan.
In a bowl, mix together mayo and seasoning until well blended.
Use a rubber spatula to spread the mayo mixture over the chicken. Sprinkle with bread crumbs.
Bake at 350 for 35 - 40 minutes of until chicken is no longer pink.
*If you can, try to stick with a Salt Free seasoning, like Mrs. Dash, or McCormick Blends. If your seasoning contains salt, cut it back to 1 tbsp.
<3 Patty
31 Days of Halloween - Day 9
Spider Web Game
(another game from the CD from Pat Catans!)
You’ll need:
• A ball of yarn for each player
• Halloween Music
Give each player a ball of yarn. Players tie one end of the yarn loosely around their waist and then stand in a circle. Play your favorite Halloween music CD. Whenever the music stops, players toss their ball of yarn to anyone in the circle. Then, each player wraps the yarn around any part of his or her body—around their leg, arm, waist, foot, fingers, but not around the neck. Play the music again, tossing the yarn to another player when the music stops. Continue until players run out of yarn. There are no winners or losers, and players will be entertained for quite a long time. Plus, they’ll have fun untangling themselves.
- Patty
The All-in-One Parent on FaceBook
Monday, October 8, 2012
31 Days of Halloween - Day 8
Dead Finger Cookies
(I found this online, but cannot remember the web site!! If this is your recipe or Idea please let us know so we can give you credit!)
Cookies give new meaning to the term “finger food.”
You’ll need:
Cookie dough
Almonds
Royal icing
Put refrigerated sugar cookie dough in a large plastic storage bag. Cut a “finger-size” corner off the bag. Carefully squeeze finger-length dough onto a cookie sheet. Use a dull side of butter knife to carve lines into each finger—knuckles and wrinkles. Use an almond to make a fingernail impression at the tip of each finger cookie. Bake the cookies according to the package directions. After baking, “glue” an almond to each finger with icing.
- Patty
The All-in-One Parent on FaceBook
Sunday, October 7, 2012
31 Days of Halloween - Day 7
Too cute!!
Test Tube Treats!
These little plastic test tubes are filled with round candies for a treat the kids wont soon forget!!
http://sassysites.blogspot.com/2011/10/test-tube-treats.html
- Patty
The All-in-One Parent on FaceBook
Breakfast Casserol - Oven
The original recipe on Pinterest called for 4 eggs, and I made it with 6 and STILL had to add 3 more.
1 pack Crescent rolls
9 large eggs
1 pack Brown and serve sausage links
2/3 cup finely chopped ham (1/4 inch cubes)
1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 cup Mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Optional add ins -
(No more that 1 cup total extram or you will need to add more eggs)
Red bell peppers
Mushrooms
Onions
Bacon
Preheat oven to 425*
Grease a 9" x 13" glass pan (I used cooking spray).
Lay crescent rolls on bottom and press to spread out and close all seams and holes.
Sprinkle meat, cheese and any additional veggies on top of rolls.
Mix together eggs, salt & garlic powder.
Pour eggs over bottom two layers.
Bake for 17 minutes.
For a full breakfast serving cut down the middle longways, and then into 4 pieces on each side.
For a buffet brunch, cut into 15 servings.
(Long ways twice, top to bottom 4 times.)
- Patty
The All-in-One Parent on FaceBook
1 pack Crescent rolls
9 large eggs
1 pack Brown and serve sausage links
2/3 cup finely chopped ham (1/4 inch cubes)
1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 cup Mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Optional add ins -
(No more that 1 cup total extram or you will need to add more eggs)
Red bell peppers
Mushrooms
Onions
Bacon
Preheat oven to 425*
Grease a 9" x 13" glass pan (I used cooking spray).
Lay crescent rolls on bottom and press to spread out and close all seams and holes.
Sprinkle meat, cheese and any additional veggies on top of rolls.
Mix together eggs, salt & garlic powder.
Pour eggs over bottom two layers.
Bake for 17 minutes.
For a full breakfast serving cut down the middle longways, and then into 4 pieces on each side.
For a buffet brunch, cut into 15 servings.
(Long ways twice, top to bottom 4 times.)
- Patty
The All-in-One Parent on FaceBook
Saturday, October 6, 2012
Italian Crock Pot Sandwiches
Made these for dinner one Saturday, and they were a huge hit!!
3-4 lb rump roast
3 cups water
1 tsp salt
1 tsp Onion Powder
1 tsp Garlic Powder
1 tsp Italian Seasoning
1 tsp Dried Parsley
1 tsp Dry Basil
1 tsp Black pepper
1 0.7 Italian Salad Dressing packet
Mix hot water, with dried seasonings and dressing mix.
Place roast in crock pot, pour dressing mix over meat.
Cook on high 4-5 hours, or 10-12 hours on low.
When finished, shred with forks.
Serve on hoagie rolls with cheese, mushrooms, peppers & onions! Or just the meat!
- Patty
The All-in-One Parent on FaceBook
3-4 lb rump roast
3 cups water
1 tsp salt
1 tsp Onion Powder
1 tsp Garlic Powder
1 tsp Italian Seasoning
1 tsp Dried Parsley
1 tsp Dry Basil
1 tsp Black pepper
1 0.7 Italian Salad Dressing packet
Mix hot water, with dried seasonings and dressing mix.
Place roast in crock pot, pour dressing mix over meat.
Cook on high 4-5 hours, or 10-12 hours on low.
When finished, shred with forks.
Serve on hoagie rolls with cheese, mushrooms, peppers & onions! Or just the meat!
- Patty
The All-in-One Parent on FaceBook
Pizza Buns
Yummy!!! Just made these, and as you can see, they cvame out GREAT!!
1 8 ct. container of Buttermilk Biscuits
32 pieces Pepperoni
8 1" sq. Mozzarella Cheese (thickness depends on how cheese you want them!)
1 8 ct. container of Buttermilk Biscuits
32 pieces Pepperoni
8 1" sq. Mozzarella Cheese (thickness depends on how cheese you want them!)
Flatten Biscuits till they are twice as wide. stack in the center, two pepperoni, 1 piece of cheese, and two more pieces of pepperoni.
fold the biscuits to close to center.
Spray a cupcake tin with non stick spray, and place buns with the closure down.
At this point, my lo decided it would be cute to add a tiny piece of cheese on top of the buns!!
Bake at 350* for 10-12 minutes or until Golden Brown on top.
You can eat these plain, or with dipping sauces!
This should make enough for four people, two a piece, for a snack.
- Patty
The All-in-One Parent on FaceBook
fold the biscuits to close to center.
Spray a cupcake tin with non stick spray, and place buns with the closure down.
At this point, my lo decided it would be cute to add a tiny piece of cheese on top of the buns!!
Bake at 350* for 10-12 minutes or until Golden Brown on top.
You can eat these plain, or with dipping sauces!
This should make enough for four people, two a piece, for a snack.
- Patty
The All-in-One Parent on FaceBook
31 Days of Halloween - Day 6
Monstermallows Treat
I got these off a $1 CD I bought at Pat Catans!! Telling you all, I LOVE that store!
Frightfully fun treats to eat and to share!
You’ll need:
Marshmallows
Green food coloring paste
Chocolate chips
Small round candies for eyes
Thin pretzel sticks
Craft sticks
New paintbrushes
Foam cups
Stick a craft stick up through the bottom of a marshmallow so that the marshmallow rests on top of the stick forming a "head". Paint the entire marshmallow green with the green food coloring paste. In a microwave safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips. Dip the top of the marshmallow into the chocolate to create his "hair".
Insert the sticks into the bottom of a foam cup. Place the cup and marshmallow stick into the refrigerator for few minutes to harden the chocolate. Next, dip two round candies into the melted chocolate and “glue” them to the head for eyes. Paint on a chocolate mouth. Break off the ends of a pretzel stick. Poke one piece into each side of the monster’s head. Wrap each Monstermallow in cellophane or plastic wrap to give away as treats.
- Patty
The All-in-One Parent on FaceBook
Friday, October 5, 2012
Baked Doughnuts
I got a doughnut pan for a Wedding Gift, and I lost the recipe!!
Well, I found it!!!
I also found where someone uses this recipe in mini muffin tins to make home made doughnut holes!
This is the Wilton Baked Doughnut Recipe
2 cups cake flour, sifted
¾ cup granulated sugar
2 tsp. baking powder
¼ tsp. ground nutmeg
1 tsp. salt
¾ cup buttermilk
2 eggs, lightly beaten
2 tbsp. butter, melted
Preheat oven to 425*F. Spray doughnut pan with nonstick cooking spray.
In a large mixing bowl, sift together cake flour, sugar, baking powder, nutmeg and salt. Add buttermilk, eggs and butter. Beat until just combined. Fill each doughnut cup approx. 2/3 full.
Bake 7-9 minutes or until the top of the doughnuts spring back when touched.
Let cool in pan for 4-5 minutes before removing. Finish doughnut with chocolate glaze, cinnamon sugar or confectioners’ sugar. Doughnuts are best served fresh.
- Patty
The All-in-One Parent on FaceBook
Well, I found it!!!
I also found where someone uses this recipe in mini muffin tins to make home made doughnut holes!
This is the Wilton Baked Doughnut Recipe
2 cups cake flour, sifted
¾ cup granulated sugar
2 tsp. baking powder
¼ tsp. ground nutmeg
1 tsp. salt
¾ cup buttermilk
2 eggs, lightly beaten
2 tbsp. butter, melted
Preheat oven to 425*F. Spray doughnut pan with nonstick cooking spray.
In a large mixing bowl, sift together cake flour, sugar, baking powder, nutmeg and salt. Add buttermilk, eggs and butter. Beat until just combined. Fill each doughnut cup approx. 2/3 full.
Bake 7-9 minutes or until the top of the doughnuts spring back when touched.
Let cool in pan for 4-5 minutes before removing. Finish doughnut with chocolate glaze, cinnamon sugar or confectioners’ sugar. Doughnuts are best served fresh.
- Patty
The All-in-One Parent on FaceBook
31 Days of Halloween - Day 5
31 Days of Halloween - Day 5
Recently on our local news they have been talking about sex offenders, and how they are not living at their listed address, or how they are not registering at all when they move.
My Day 5 idea is to utilize the resources we have available to us, and find out who is living in our neighborhood!!
One of our local cities is trying to ban registered sex offenders from decorating and handing out candy for Halloween.
Check out this web site and share it with friends and family so you too can be informed and know which houses you may want to skip during trick-or-treat!
www.familywatchdog.com
- Patty
The All-in-One Parent on FaceBook
Recently on our local news they have been talking about sex offenders, and how they are not living at their listed address, or how they are not registering at all when they move.
My Day 5 idea is to utilize the resources we have available to us, and find out who is living in our neighborhood!!
One of our local cities is trying to ban registered sex offenders from decorating and handing out candy for Halloween.
Check out this web site and share it with friends and family so you too can be informed and know which houses you may want to skip during trick-or-treat!
www.familywatchdog.com
- Patty
The All-in-One Parent on FaceBook
To PIN or not to PIN??
Ok, todays topic - Pinterest.
On Fridays I'll be sharing Pinterest Pins that I love, and plan to use! These Pins range from Food to Crafts, to Clothes.
I'm a huge fan of Pinterest, but until they had a Mobile App for Android, I didn't use it. Now, I am browsing at least once a day!!
Do you use Pinterest?
Feel free to follow me if you like!
I am an Organizational freak! So if your looking for something, you will know exactly where to find it!!
But all my pins and low cost, family friendly, and EASY!!
http://pinterest.com/teehesson/
-Patty
The All-in-One Parent on FaceBook
On Fridays I'll be sharing Pinterest Pins that I love, and plan to use! These Pins range from Food to Crafts, to Clothes.
I'm a huge fan of Pinterest, but until they had a Mobile App for Android, I didn't use it. Now, I am browsing at least once a day!!
Do you use Pinterest?
Feel free to follow me if you like!
I am an Organizational freak! So if your looking for something, you will know exactly where to find it!!
But all my pins and low cost, family friendly, and EASY!!
http://pinterest.com/teehesson/
-Patty
The All-in-One Parent on FaceBook
Thursday, October 4, 2012
Party Potato Wedges
This is also great for a side dish! But a hit at a party!
4 Idaho potatoes, cleaned, and wedges into 6
Vegetable Oil
Lawry's Seasoning Salt
Clean Potatoes, but do not peel! Dry off, and cut into 6 wedges.
Place potatoes and 1 Tbsp. of oil in a gallon size Zip Lock bag.
Lay skin side down on a cookie sheet, and sprinkle with Lawry's Seasoning Salt.
Bake for 20 minutes at 400* of until fork tender.
- Patty
The All-in-One Parent on FaceBook
4 Idaho potatoes, cleaned, and wedges into 6
Vegetable Oil
Lawry's Seasoning Salt
Clean Potatoes, but do not peel! Dry off, and cut into 6 wedges.
Place potatoes and 1 Tbsp. of oil in a gallon size Zip Lock bag.
Lay skin side down on a cookie sheet, and sprinkle with Lawry's Seasoning Salt.
Bake for 20 minutes at 400* of until fork tender.
- Patty
The All-in-One Parent on FaceBook
Oven Ranch Potatoes
I LOVE these potatoes!!! (The mix is great on Chicken as well!!)
8-10 Red Skin potatoes
1 packet of Hidden Valley Ranch Dip mix
1/4 Cup while All Purpose Flour
Olive Oil
Wash and dry the red skin potatoes. Cut into wedges that around about 2 bite size, place in a bowl.
Mix Ranch Dip mix, and flour in a gallon size zip lock bag.
Drizzle potatoes LIGHTLY with Olive Oil and mix in the bowl to coat well. Put potatoes in zip lock bag and shake (do this in two batches).
Put potatoes in a 9" x 13" Glass baking dish, and bake at 375* for 45 minutes or until fork tender.
- Patty
The All-in-One Parent on FaceBook
8-10 Red Skin potatoes
1 packet of Hidden Valley Ranch Dip mix
1/4 Cup while All Purpose Flour
Olive Oil
Wash and dry the red skin potatoes. Cut into wedges that around about 2 bite size, place in a bowl.
Mix Ranch Dip mix, and flour in a gallon size zip lock bag.
Drizzle potatoes LIGHTLY with Olive Oil and mix in the bowl to coat well. Put potatoes in zip lock bag and shake (do this in two batches).
Put potatoes in a 9" x 13" Glass baking dish, and bake at 375* for 45 minutes or until fork tender.
- Patty
The All-in-One Parent on FaceBook
Lemon Garlic Italian Chicken - oven
This is my go-to recipe when I have no idea what to make for dinner!! Pairs great with Oven Potatoes, and salad!
3 Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast, filleted in half
1 cup Italian Salad Dressing
1 tsp Garlic Powder
2 Tbsp. Lemon Juice
Dried Parsley
Filet chicken and lay in a 9" x 13" glass baking dish.
Mix together the salad dressing, lemon juice, and garlic powder. Pour over chicken. Lightly sprinkle with parsley, and bake at 350* for 35-45 minutes.
- Patty
The All-in-One Parent on FaceBook
3 Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast, filleted in half
1 cup Italian Salad Dressing
1 tsp Garlic Powder
2 Tbsp. Lemon Juice
Dried Parsley
Filet chicken and lay in a 9" x 13" glass baking dish.
Mix together the salad dressing, lemon juice, and garlic powder. Pour over chicken. Lightly sprinkle with parsley, and bake at 350* for 35-45 minutes.
- Patty
The All-in-One Parent on FaceBook
31 Days of Halloween - Day 4!
31 Days of Halloween - Day 4
These cute Halloween cups are just 3/$0.99 at Walgreen's this month! There are lots of cute things you could do with these, but a great idea is writing the child's name on them and putting the gift bag in them for your Halloween Party. They get a Party Gift, and a cup they wont lose! No more asking "Who's juice is this?"
-Patty
The All-in-One Parent on FaceBook
These cute Halloween cups are just 3/$0.99 at Walgreen's this month! There are lots of cute things you could do with these, but a great idea is writing the child's name on them and putting the gift bag in them for your Halloween Party. They get a Party Gift, and a cup they wont lose! No more asking "Who's juice is this?"
-Patty
The All-in-One Parent on FaceBook
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
31 Days of Halloween - Day 3!!
31 Days of Halloween - Day 3!!
Here's my great idea for today.
The economy is hard on all of us, but we still want our kids to enjoy the events that our area has to offer. Well, here is a cool web site where you can sign up for a news letter that will give you a list of local events! I tells you the location, prices, and what the event has to offer. And that's JUST in the news letter! The page offers lots more!! Check it out today!
http://national.macaronikid.com
- Patty
The All-in-One Parent on FaceBook
Here's my great idea for today.
The economy is hard on all of us, but we still want our kids to enjoy the events that our area has to offer. Well, here is a cool web site where you can sign up for a news letter that will give you a list of local events! I tells you the location, prices, and what the event has to offer. And that's JUST in the news letter! The page offers lots more!! Check it out today!
http://national.macaronikid.com
- Patty
The All-in-One Parent on FaceBook
Tuesday, October 2, 2012
"31 Days of Halloween" Day 2
Ok, so I'm a huge fan of everything easy!!!
The other day I was watching the Rachael Ray show, and I saw this recipe...
http://www.rachaelrayshow.com/food/recipes/mini-muffin-corn-dog-poppers/
Well, Here is my twist -
Cut hot dogs into 1/2" slices - no thinner.
Prepare the corn muffin mix as directed on the box.
Spray each muffin cup with non-stick baking spray.
Fill each cup with 1 tbsp of muffin mix, place hot dog in muffin pan, and press down slightly (don't press it to the bottom), then put enough mix to just cover the top of the hot dog top.
Bake in the oven for 8-10 minutes until the top if golden brown.
Pop out let cool for 5-10 minutes. Serve warm with your choice of dipping sauce!
- Patty
The All-in-One Parent on FaceBook
The other day I was watching the Rachael Ray show, and I saw this recipe...
http://www.rachaelrayshow.com/food/recipes/mini-muffin-corn-dog-poppers/
Well, Here is my twist -
Cut hot dogs into 1/2" slices - no thinner.
Prepare the corn muffin mix as directed on the box.
Spray each muffin cup with non-stick baking spray.
Fill each cup with 1 tbsp of muffin mix, place hot dog in muffin pan, and press down slightly (don't press it to the bottom), then put enough mix to just cover the top of the hot dog top.
Bake in the oven for 8-10 minutes until the top if golden brown.
Pop out let cool for 5-10 minutes. Serve warm with your choice of dipping sauce!
- Patty
The All-in-One Parent on FaceBook
Monday, October 1, 2012
"31 Days of Halloween" day 1
TODAYS HALLOWEEN IDEA.....
PAT CATANS!
Yes, todays idea is a PLACE!
Did you know every Saturday from 10am until Noon or 1pm Pat Catans host a free craft for kids!
That's right, NO CHARGE! You don't even have to buy anything! This past Saturday our Pat Catans did free face mask for Halloween. How cool!?
Call your local Pat Catans, or other craft store, and inquire about free kid craft days!
- Patty
The All-in-One Parent on FaceBook
PAT CATANS!
Yes, todays idea is a PLACE!
Did you know every Saturday from 10am until Noon or 1pm Pat Catans host a free craft for kids!
That's right, NO CHARGE! You don't even have to buy anything! This past Saturday our Pat Catans did free face mask for Halloween. How cool!?
Call your local Pat Catans, or other craft store, and inquire about free kid craft days!
- Patty
The All-in-One Parent on FaceBook
Sunday, September 30, 2012
Mock Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls (bread machine)
This is the recipe I used to make Cinnamon Rolls and Cinnamon twist for my family this morning, and it was a hit!!!
Next time I will add a tad more Brown Sugar to the filling, as they weren't as sweet as I expected.
Dough -
1 cup warm milk (110* F)
2 eggs
1/3 Cup margarine, melted
4 1/2 Cups All purpose Flour
1 tsp. salt
2/3 Cup white sugar
3 tsp Rapid Rise Yeast
Filling -
1 cup packed Brown Sugar (I will add 1/4c more next time)
3 Tbsp. ground Cinnamon
1/3 Cup butter, softened
Icing -
3 oz. Cream Cheese, softened
1/4 cup of Butter softened
1 tsp. Vanilla Extract
Place dough ingredients into bread machine in order recommended by manufacturer. Select Dough cycle and start.
After dough is together, and has doubled in size, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and let rest for 10 minutes.
Mix together the filling mixture, set aside.
Roll out dough to a 1/8" - 1/4" thickness.
For Twist -
Trim sides down to an even edge. Spread filling over dough, and fold in half putting the two long edges together.
Cut into 3/4" strips, and twist, pulling slightly as you twist. Lay into a greased and floured baking pan.
Let rise for 30 minutes, or until dough is doubled.
Bake at 350 for 15-18 minutes
Use a rubber spatula to spread on icing as soon as you take these out of the oven!
For Cinnamon Rolls -
Trim the short sides so that the dough is fairly even - don't cut too much off.
Spread the filling evenly, reaching to the sides as far as possible, but keeping a 1/2" margin clean on one of the long sides.
Roll the dough starting at the long side without the clean edge, and roll to the clean edge.
Grease and flour a 9" x 13" baking pan.
Cut 1/2" - 3/4" rolls, and place them in the pan with sides barely touching.
Let rise for 30 minutes, or until rolls are doubled.
Preheat Oven to 400* F (200* C).
Bake Rolls for 15 minutes or until golden brown.
Use a rubber spatula to spread on icing as soon as you take these rolls out of the oven!
- Patty
The All-in-One Parent on FaceBook
Next time I will add a tad more Brown Sugar to the filling, as they weren't as sweet as I expected.
Dough -
1 cup warm milk (110* F)
2 eggs
1/3 Cup margarine, melted
4 1/2 Cups All purpose Flour
1 tsp. salt
2/3 Cup white sugar
3 tsp Rapid Rise Yeast
Filling -
1 cup packed Brown Sugar (I will add 1/4c more next time)
3 Tbsp. ground Cinnamon
1/3 Cup butter, softened
Icing -
3 oz. Cream Cheese, softened
1/4 cup of Butter softened
1 tsp. Vanilla Extract
Place dough ingredients into bread machine in order recommended by manufacturer. Select Dough cycle and start.
After dough is together, and has doubled in size, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and let rest for 10 minutes.
Mix together the filling mixture, set aside.
Roll out dough to a 1/8" - 1/4" thickness.
For Twist -
Trim sides down to an even edge. Spread filling over dough, and fold in half putting the two long edges together.
Cut into 3/4" strips, and twist, pulling slightly as you twist. Lay into a greased and floured baking pan.
Let rise for 30 minutes, or until dough is doubled.
Bake at 350 for 15-18 minutes
Use a rubber spatula to spread on icing as soon as you take these out of the oven!
For Cinnamon Rolls -
Trim the short sides so that the dough is fairly even - don't cut too much off.
Spread the filling evenly, reaching to the sides as far as possible, but keeping a 1/2" margin clean on one of the long sides.
Roll the dough starting at the long side without the clean edge, and roll to the clean edge.
Grease and flour a 9" x 13" baking pan.
Cut 1/2" - 3/4" rolls, and place them in the pan with sides barely touching.
Let rise for 30 minutes, or until rolls are doubled.
Preheat Oven to 400* F (200* C).
Bake Rolls for 15 minutes or until golden brown.
Use a rubber spatula to spread on icing as soon as you take these rolls out of the oven!
- Patty
The All-in-One Parent on FaceBook
Saturday, September 29, 2012
Crock Pot Pork Loin
I made this for my family the other day, and it was "OMG Good"!!!
3 lb. Pork Loin
4-5 Potatoes
Rub -
3 Tbsp. Italian Seasoning
2 Tbsp. Dried Parsley
2 tsp. McCormick Tomato Basil Seasoning
1 1/2 tsp. Mrs. Dash Lemon Pepper Seasoning
1 1/2 tsp. Garlic Powder
1 1/2 tsp. Salt
2 pkts. Sassoné Red (in the Spanish Food isle)
Put all rub ingredients in a gallon size zip lock bag, shake to mix.
Cut Pork loin in half, and place in zip lock bag, shake till well coated.
Refrigerate for 12-24 hours.
Day of -
Peel potatoes and cut long ways, then cut into 1/2" - 3/4" slices. Arrange slices on the bottom of the crock pot, add about 1/2" of water.
Lay Pork Loin on top of the potatoes so that the pork DOES NOT touch the bottom of the pot, or the sides (if possible).
Cover, and cook on low 4-6* hours.
Remove pork loin and potatoes from the crock pot.
Optional -
Make a roux with Butter and Flour and use the drippings from the crock pot to make a gravy for the potatoes.
I served this with nice big steamed Broccoli florets, and my family loved it!!
*cooking time will depend on the heat levels of your crock pot.
- Patty
The All-in-One Parent on FaceBook
3 lb. Pork Loin
4-5 Potatoes
Rub -
3 Tbsp. Italian Seasoning
2 Tbsp. Dried Parsley
2 tsp. McCormick Tomato Basil Seasoning
1 1/2 tsp. Mrs. Dash Lemon Pepper Seasoning
1 1/2 tsp. Garlic Powder
1 1/2 tsp. Salt
2 pkts. Sassoné Red (in the Spanish Food isle)
Put all rub ingredients in a gallon size zip lock bag, shake to mix.
Cut Pork loin in half, and place in zip lock bag, shake till well coated.
Refrigerate for 12-24 hours.
Day of -
Peel potatoes and cut long ways, then cut into 1/2" - 3/4" slices. Arrange slices on the bottom of the crock pot, add about 1/2" of water.
Lay Pork Loin on top of the potatoes so that the pork DOES NOT touch the bottom of the pot, or the sides (if possible).
Cover, and cook on low 4-6* hours.
Remove pork loin and potatoes from the crock pot.
Optional -
Make a roux with Butter and Flour and use the drippings from the crock pot to make a gravy for the potatoes.
I served this with nice big steamed Broccoli florets, and my family loved it!!
*cooking time will depend on the heat levels of your crock pot.
- Patty
The All-in-One Parent on FaceBook
Wednesday, September 26, 2012
Salt Clay
I love, love, LOVE this stuff!!!
4 cups All Purpose flour
1 cup table salt
Cold water (approximately 1 1/2 - 2 cups)
Food coloring if desired
In a large bowl (because you will need room to kneed!) mix together the four and salt.
At this point, if you wish to color the clay before drying, add the food coloring to the water. I recommend using about 20 drops for a good color.
Gradually add the water to the flour and salt mixture. Your looking to get a clay / play dough consistency.
Once the consistency desired is reached, you can now begin your projects!!
Here are a few ideas -
Home made holiday ornaments
Roll out the dough and use cookie cutters to cut out shapes, and use a lolly pop stick to punch a hold in the soft clay - this will make it easier to string later. (these all make great gift ideas for teachers as well!!)
* Pumpkins for Halloween
* Trees for Christmas
* Hearts for Valentines day
* Eggs for Easter
I like to let these dry on the TOP of the stove (so this while the kids are playing outside, preoccupied with a movie, etc. You will need to prop the oven open, and you do NOT want the kids in the kitchen during that time.
Once you cut out the shapes, lay onto a cookie sheet, and set on top of the stove. Turn the oven on 350* and prop oven door open about half way. Let the shapes sit on top of the oven for about 2 hours. Then turn off the oven. Leave the shapes on top of the oven until all the heat from the oven is gone.
Let shapes cool completely before painting!
(you can also bake these shapes at 200* for about an hour, but they can bubble!)
Hand / Foot prints
Roll out a circle of dough about 8 inches round and 1 inch thick, and place it into a glass pie plate.
Have your child press his / her hand or foot into the dough.
Bake in the oven at 250* for an hour and a half with the oven door CLOSED. (I do not recommend using the air drying method for the bowls, or any other *thick* craft as it may not dry completely).
Decorative Bowls
Choose a OVEN safe item (Cupcake pan, tart pan, etc), roll the dough out to a good size circle (depending on the size bowl you are using, you want about a 1 inch over lay) and lay a moist paper towel over the bowl you will be using to shape the one you are making. Once you are done forming the bowl you can decorate the outside with small glass tiles, gems, etc.
DO NOT REMOVE CLAY FROM THE BOWL!!
Bake the bowl upside down in the oven at 200* for about 1 hour. (I do not recommend using the air drying method for the bowls, or any other *thick* craft as it may not dry completely).
- Patty
The All-in-One Parent on FaceBook
4 cups All Purpose flour
1 cup table salt
Cold water (approximately 1 1/2 - 2 cups)
Food coloring if desired
In a large bowl (because you will need room to kneed!) mix together the four and salt.
At this point, if you wish to color the clay before drying, add the food coloring to the water. I recommend using about 20 drops for a good color.
Gradually add the water to the flour and salt mixture. Your looking to get a clay / play dough consistency.
Once the consistency desired is reached, you can now begin your projects!!
Here are a few ideas -
Home made holiday ornaments
Roll out the dough and use cookie cutters to cut out shapes, and use a lolly pop stick to punch a hold in the soft clay - this will make it easier to string later. (these all make great gift ideas for teachers as well!!)
* Pumpkins for Halloween
* Trees for Christmas
* Hearts for Valentines day
* Eggs for Easter
I like to let these dry on the TOP of the stove (so this while the kids are playing outside, preoccupied with a movie, etc. You will need to prop the oven open, and you do NOT want the kids in the kitchen during that time.
Once you cut out the shapes, lay onto a cookie sheet, and set on top of the stove. Turn the oven on 350* and prop oven door open about half way. Let the shapes sit on top of the oven for about 2 hours. Then turn off the oven. Leave the shapes on top of the oven until all the heat from the oven is gone.
Let shapes cool completely before painting!
(you can also bake these shapes at 200* for about an hour, but they can bubble!)
Hand / Foot prints
Roll out a circle of dough about 8 inches round and 1 inch thick, and place it into a glass pie plate.
Have your child press his / her hand or foot into the dough.
Bake in the oven at 250* for an hour and a half with the oven door CLOSED. (I do not recommend using the air drying method for the bowls, or any other *thick* craft as it may not dry completely).
Decorative Bowls
Choose a OVEN safe item (Cupcake pan, tart pan, etc), roll the dough out to a good size circle (depending on the size bowl you are using, you want about a 1 inch over lay) and lay a moist paper towel over the bowl you will be using to shape the one you are making. Once you are done forming the bowl you can decorate the outside with small glass tiles, gems, etc.
DO NOT REMOVE CLAY FROM THE BOWL!!
Bake the bowl upside down in the oven at 200* for about 1 hour. (I do not recommend using the air drying method for the bowls, or any other *thick* craft as it may not dry completely).
- Patty
The All-in-One Parent on FaceBook
Crock Pot Easy Potato and Ground Turkey Casserole
My Aunt used to make this in the oven all the time, but she would use ground beef. I used ground Turkey this last time, and it came out really yummy!! So I wanted to share the recipe!
Ingredients
6-8 Rustic Potatoes, peeled, and slicked into 1/4"-1/2" slices
1 lb ground Turkey, cooked, drained, crumbled
1 - 12oz bag frozen corn (canned corn works fine as well)
1 envelope Lipton Beefy Onion Soup Mix
Directions
Cook and drain the Turkey.
Mix the soup with 4 Cups of boiling hot water (I use hot water from the tap! works just fine!), set aside.
Peel the potatoes and slice them once you are ready to start the crock pot.
Begin layering the ingredients in even amounts until the potatoes are all gone.
Start with the Potatoes on the bottom, then do some turkey, and some corn. Another layer of potatoes, and another layer of turkey and corn. Keep in mind, you dont want to cover the potatoes, just sprinkle about 1/4 - 1/3 of the meat and corn on each layer.
Once all the layers are finished, pour the onion soup mix on top. At this point you can add salt and/or pepper.
Cover and turn on low - cook 6-7 hours until potatoes are fork tender, and starting to brown in color on top.
Hope you enjoy this!!!
- Patty
The All-in-One Parent on FaceBook
Ingredients
6-8 Rustic Potatoes, peeled, and slicked into 1/4"-1/2" slices
1 lb ground Turkey, cooked, drained, crumbled
1 - 12oz bag frozen corn (canned corn works fine as well)
1 envelope Lipton Beefy Onion Soup Mix
Directions
Cook and drain the Turkey.
Mix the soup with 4 Cups of boiling hot water (I use hot water from the tap! works just fine!), set aside.
Peel the potatoes and slice them once you are ready to start the crock pot.
Begin layering the ingredients in even amounts until the potatoes are all gone.
Start with the Potatoes on the bottom, then do some turkey, and some corn. Another layer of potatoes, and another layer of turkey and corn. Keep in mind, you dont want to cover the potatoes, just sprinkle about 1/4 - 1/3 of the meat and corn on each layer.
Once all the layers are finished, pour the onion soup mix on top. At this point you can add salt and/or pepper.
Cover and turn on low - cook 6-7 hours until potatoes are fork tender, and starting to brown in color on top.
Hope you enjoy this!!!
- Patty
The All-in-One Parent on FaceBook
Why am I a SAHM?
I grew up seeing the differences between a home with a SAHM and one without. But as much as I always wanted to be a house wife, and SAHM, I never thought I could, or would. I loved working too much, I loved the break, the social aspects of work - I loved having people to see outside of my home, and I loved having the money to go do things.
Well, in 2009 I was involved in a rather abusive relationship with someone who was abusing drugs. by October 2009, I was pretty much fed up - I was ready to leave. My depression had hit a all time low, I lost all my friends, I couldn't go anywhere, and my daughter and I stayed at my ex's house every weekend. If we didn't my phone would blow up, or she was checking on me, or wanted to know why I was mad at her. All because I wanted some down time.
I wasn't married to her, I was dating her.
In November 2009 the unthinkable happened. While she had pushed, smacked, and shoved me several times, she had never full on attacked me.
We left for church, and I told her before we left that I had to get my stuff and go. I couldn't handle the relationship anymore and it was wearing me down. She begged me not to go, asked me to please just go to church with her, and to pray about it. I did....
when we got back to her house, I asked her to open the door so I could get my things, she refused. Her father (who lived downstairs or the two family) opened the door for me, and I started packing my things. She was furious, and so angry. She started calling people, she started telling my daughter how I lied, and how I don't love her (my ex) anymore, and that we were leaving. She really pulled my daughter into it.
After I packed all my things into the car - TV and all, I asked her to get out. I told her I was going home and I wanted her out. She refused.
We drove maybe half a while from her house and while I Was driving down a side street, out of no where, she started attacking me. Punching me in my head, my face, my shoulder and my arm. I had cuts from a ring she was wearing, my ear was bleeding, my eye was swelling - and all this took place while my daughter was in the car watching, screaming for her to stop.
I still cry thinking of how she much have felt, helpless, in the back seat yelling for someone to help Mommy.
My childhood was filled with unmentionable abuse - abuse that took place in and outside of my home. My father was a very angry man, and his step father ...... he did things I dont feel the need to speak about.
Anyways, after all this happened - I cowered. My depression got even worse, I felt worthless, I felt like I could never be loved, and no one would ever see me as someone worth loving.
Then, I met Andrew. He was performing at a local bar, and I went to see him. Love at first sight? I think so ;)
He has spent the last 3 years undoing what my ex did to me.
In December of 2009 I lost my job at Key Bank. My FMLA had ran out, and I was spending more time off the phones crying in the bathroom than I was helping customers.
I tried so hard over that summer to fix what was happening, I felt like I could be her superwoman and help her get her life straight - I was wrong.
So when I met Andrew, I was broken, weak, and unable to even feel anything worthy of love.
I still felt like it was all my fault, and I did for well over a year.
I have struggled with depression and BiPolar for the majority of my life. In and out of counseling, on and off of med's. I placed a child in adoption, and I lost one child to his father.
I wasn't able to stay in counseling, or to stay on meds - I was working full time and I couldn't afford my medical plan. I had no idea what I was doing when I signed up.
On top of all this I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia in July 2009, and I had no idea how to cope. But on top of it, my legs were going weak and giving out on me. I was blacking out and passing out. But through the MRI's, CAT scans, and EEG's, nothing shows up. I feel like I am lost.
So, I pour my life into my home. Some days are better than others - some days I spend on the couch all day wanting nothing more to cry, but fearing if I start I wont stop, other days I bake and clean until the house is beautiful and smells yummy. But the minute my daughter runs in that door from school, or comes in from playing outside in the summer, I wrap her in my arms, and know she is ok.
The biggest part of my depression is fear - fear that what happened to me will happen to her. I never want her to feel worthless like I did. And when Andrew came along, he made both of our life's better.
Like any married couple, we have our ups and downs - but he is my rock. And he is Kathleen's Daddy. And I couldn't be happier to be a SAHM so I can show them, on my good days, just how much I love them.
So you see, my decision to be a SAHM wasn't because Andrew made enough money to cover two salaries (because he makes just above minimum wage), it wasn't because I just loved spending time caring for my kids 24/7 (had I done this when Kat was a baby or a toddler, I would have lost my mind), and I didnt do this because I am lazy (I go stir crazy on a daily basis).
I did this because my disability keeps me from working - most days (99% of the time) it keeps me from even walking out the front door. I live in fear that if I Walk out of the house, something bad will happen - Murphy's Law. When I do leave, its never alone, and almost always with Andrew.
but I found comfort in knowing, I can still provide for my family - even if not financially. I can cook for them, I can clean for them, I can show them all the love I can. And when I cant do those things, Andrew does. He knows how hard it is for me to lead a normal life. But in the end, I try my hardest to be as normal as possible.
I guess you can say, in a way, I didnt chose this lifestyle, this lifestyle chose me.
I was just lucky to have an amazing Grandma to show me how to do it right, when I can....
*Patty*
Well, in 2009 I was involved in a rather abusive relationship with someone who was abusing drugs. by October 2009, I was pretty much fed up - I was ready to leave. My depression had hit a all time low, I lost all my friends, I couldn't go anywhere, and my daughter and I stayed at my ex's house every weekend. If we didn't my phone would blow up, or she was checking on me, or wanted to know why I was mad at her. All because I wanted some down time.
I wasn't married to her, I was dating her.
In November 2009 the unthinkable happened. While she had pushed, smacked, and shoved me several times, she had never full on attacked me.
We left for church, and I told her before we left that I had to get my stuff and go. I couldn't handle the relationship anymore and it was wearing me down. She begged me not to go, asked me to please just go to church with her, and to pray about it. I did....
when we got back to her house, I asked her to open the door so I could get my things, she refused. Her father (who lived downstairs or the two family) opened the door for me, and I started packing my things. She was furious, and so angry. She started calling people, she started telling my daughter how I lied, and how I don't love her (my ex) anymore, and that we were leaving. She really pulled my daughter into it.
After I packed all my things into the car - TV and all, I asked her to get out. I told her I was going home and I wanted her out. She refused.
We drove maybe half a while from her house and while I Was driving down a side street, out of no where, she started attacking me. Punching me in my head, my face, my shoulder and my arm. I had cuts from a ring she was wearing, my ear was bleeding, my eye was swelling - and all this took place while my daughter was in the car watching, screaming for her to stop.
I still cry thinking of how she much have felt, helpless, in the back seat yelling for someone to help Mommy.
My childhood was filled with unmentionable abuse - abuse that took place in and outside of my home. My father was a very angry man, and his step father ...... he did things I dont feel the need to speak about.
Anyways, after all this happened - I cowered. My depression got even worse, I felt worthless, I felt like I could never be loved, and no one would ever see me as someone worth loving.
Then, I met Andrew. He was performing at a local bar, and I went to see him. Love at first sight? I think so ;)
He has spent the last 3 years undoing what my ex did to me.
In December of 2009 I lost my job at Key Bank. My FMLA had ran out, and I was spending more time off the phones crying in the bathroom than I was helping customers.
I tried so hard over that summer to fix what was happening, I felt like I could be her superwoman and help her get her life straight - I was wrong.
So when I met Andrew, I was broken, weak, and unable to even feel anything worthy of love.
I still felt like it was all my fault, and I did for well over a year.
I have struggled with depression and BiPolar for the majority of my life. In and out of counseling, on and off of med's. I placed a child in adoption, and I lost one child to his father.
I wasn't able to stay in counseling, or to stay on meds - I was working full time and I couldn't afford my medical plan. I had no idea what I was doing when I signed up.
On top of all this I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia in July 2009, and I had no idea how to cope. But on top of it, my legs were going weak and giving out on me. I was blacking out and passing out. But through the MRI's, CAT scans, and EEG's, nothing shows up. I feel like I am lost.
So, I pour my life into my home. Some days are better than others - some days I spend on the couch all day wanting nothing more to cry, but fearing if I start I wont stop, other days I bake and clean until the house is beautiful and smells yummy. But the minute my daughter runs in that door from school, or comes in from playing outside in the summer, I wrap her in my arms, and know she is ok.
The biggest part of my depression is fear - fear that what happened to me will happen to her. I never want her to feel worthless like I did. And when Andrew came along, he made both of our life's better.
Like any married couple, we have our ups and downs - but he is my rock. And he is Kathleen's Daddy. And I couldn't be happier to be a SAHM so I can show them, on my good days, just how much I love them.
So you see, my decision to be a SAHM wasn't because Andrew made enough money to cover two salaries (because he makes just above minimum wage), it wasn't because I just loved spending time caring for my kids 24/7 (had I done this when Kat was a baby or a toddler, I would have lost my mind), and I didnt do this because I am lazy (I go stir crazy on a daily basis).
I did this because my disability keeps me from working - most days (99% of the time) it keeps me from even walking out the front door. I live in fear that if I Walk out of the house, something bad will happen - Murphy's Law. When I do leave, its never alone, and almost always with Andrew.
but I found comfort in knowing, I can still provide for my family - even if not financially. I can cook for them, I can clean for them, I can show them all the love I can. And when I cant do those things, Andrew does. He knows how hard it is for me to lead a normal life. But in the end, I try my hardest to be as normal as possible.
I guess you can say, in a way, I didnt chose this lifestyle, this lifestyle chose me.
I was just lucky to have an amazing Grandma to show me how to do it right, when I can....
*Patty*
Sunday, September 23, 2012
"Chicken in a hurry"
as the Girls say - it doesn't cook in a hurry, but you can prepare it in a hurry.
I WILL be making these with the slow cooker Cheddar Mac!
I WILL be making these with the slow cooker Cheddar Mac!
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 - 3 Pounds of chicken drumsticks
- 1/2 Cup of ketchup
- 1/4 Cup of water
- 1/4 Cup of brown sugar, packed
- 1 envelope onion soup mix
Directions
Step One
Arrange chicken in slow cooker.Step Two
Combine remaining ingredients and then pour over the chicken.Step Three
Cover and cook on HIGH for 4–5 hours or on LOW for 7–8 hours.
via
crockingirls.com
- Patty
The All-in-One Parent on FaceBook
Crock Pot Cheddar Mac
Ingredients
- 1 (16-ounce) Package of Macaroni
- 2 Cups of Half and Half
- 1 Can of Cheese Soup
- 1/2 Cup of Butter, melted
- 4 Cups of Shredded Cheddar Cheese
Directions
Step One
Cook pasta according to package directions and drain.Step Two
Combine pasta with remaining ingredients and place into 6-quart slow cooker.Step Three
Cover and cook on LOW for 2–2 1/2 hours.
via
crockingirls.com
- Patty
The All-in-One Parent on FaceBook
Cheesy Ham & Potato Casserole
My Aunt used to make this and bring it to all the family reunions. I was excited to find the recipe!! I'll be making it very soon!
1- 1.5 Pounds of Ham, cube
8 Rustic Potatoes, peeled and diced
1 Small Onion, dice (I wont use this because the Hubby is allergic)
2 Cups of shredded Cheddar
1 Can of Cream of Mushroom Soup plus 1/2 can of milk mixed
Layer these items in a slow cooker; potatoes, ham, (onion), cheese, potatoes, ham, cheese, soup.
cook on low heat for 8 hours.
OR you can bake this in the oven at 350 until potatoes are fork tender
- Patty
The All-in-One Parent on FaceBook
1- 1.5 Pounds of Ham, cube
8 Rustic Potatoes, peeled and diced
1 Small Onion, dice (I wont use this because the Hubby is allergic)
2 Cups of shredded Cheddar
1 Can of Cream of Mushroom Soup plus 1/2 can of milk mixed
Layer these items in a slow cooker; potatoes, ham, (onion), cheese, potatoes, ham, cheese, soup.
cook on low heat for 8 hours.
OR you can bake this in the oven at 350 until potatoes are fork tender
- Patty
The All-in-One Parent on FaceBook
"Come Together Roast"
"Come Together Roast"
Ingredients
- 3 Pounds of Beef or Pork Roast (coated* and browned)
- 3-4 Whole of Large Potatoes (cut into chunks)
- 1 Pound of Baby Carrots
- 2 Cups of Celery, diced
- 1 Can of Cream of Mushroom Soup
- 1/2 Cup of Water
- 1 Package of Brown Gravy Mix
- 1/2 Cup of flour
- 1-2 Tablespoons of Garlic seasoning
- 1-2 Tablespoons of Onion Powder
Directions
Step One
Coat roast in mixture and brown on the stovetop.Step Two
Place veggies in the bottom of the slow cooker and place the roast on top.Step Three
Mix ½ cup water with ½ of the can of cream of mushroom soup (save the remaining soup for gravy) and pour over the top.Step Four
Cover and cook on LOW for 8 hours or on HIGH for 5-6 hours.Step Five
When done cooking, remove roast and veggies.Step Six
Add ½ can of cream of mushroom soup and the prepared brown gravy to the juices that are left in the bottom of the slow-cooker.Step Seven
Stir until smooth and serve the gravy over roast and veggies!
via
crockingirls.com
- Patty
The All-in-One Parent on FaceBook
Crock Pot Beef Stroganoff w/ Cream Cheese
Beef Stroganoff with Cream Cheese – made in a slow cooker
Ingredients
- 1.25 Pounds of Cubed Beef Stew Meat
- 2 Cans of Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup
- 1 Onion, chopped
- 2 Tablespoons of Worcestershire Sauce
- 1/4 Cup of Water
- Beef Broth or Red Wine
- Dash of Garlic Salt
- 8 Ounces of Cream Cheese
- Egg Noodles
Directions
Step One
In slow cooker, combine uncooked meat and all ingredients EXCEPT cream cheese and noodles.Step Two
Cook on low setting for 8 hrs or high for about 5 hrs.Step Three
Approx. 15-20 min before serving, add the cream cheese; stir occasionally until melted.Step Four
Approx. 10 minutes before serving, add uncooked noodles, push down in sauce to get lightly coated; replace lid, but stir occasionally until noodles are soft and ready to eat.
via
crockingirls.com
- Patty- The All-in-One Parent on FaceBook
Crock Pot Honey Garlic Chicken
Honey Garlic Chicken
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breats, I used 4
- 3 Garlic Cloves, smashed and chopped
- 1 Teaspoon Dried Basil (I used Fresh)
- 1/2 cup Soy Sauce
- 1/2 cup Ketchup
- 1/3 cup Honey
Add all ingredients to Gallon Size Freezer Bag. When you are ready to cook this, put all ingredients into a crockpot and let cook for 3-4 hours on high.
via
Brown Sugar Chicken
Brown Sugar Chicken (Don’t Judge me)
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts, I did 4
- 1 cup Brown Sugar
- 1/4 cup Sprite (I will add this once I add everything to the crockpot)
- 2/3 cup Vinegar
- 3 cloves smashed and chopped garlic
- 2 Tablespoon Soy Sauce
- 1 Teaspoon Black Pepper
Add all ingredients to Gallon Size Freezer Bag, except for the Sprite. When you are ready to cook this, put all ingredients into a crockpot, add the sprite and let cook for 3-4 hours on high.
recipe via The Krazy Coupon Lady
Crock Pot Meals - to Freeze, or not to freeze?
I keep coming across all these links on the web for crock pot meals you can freeze.
Sounds great to me! But, I guess if I had to pick, I would take 20 minutes before each meal, rather than 5 hours to fill my freezer with bags of food for my crock pot.
BUT, with that being said - I have my reasons.
I've never cooked frozen fresh potatoes, tomatoes, etc There are some foods I just cant imagine eating after freezing - even if I have bought them from the store frozen, I am always worried I will prep them wrong, and they will come out bad.
So, whats your take on it?
At any rate, I'm going to add some recipes I have collected from the web for Crock pot meals - frozen or fresh!
I hope you all enjoy them!
-Patty H.
The All-in-One Parent on FaceBook
Sounds great to me! But, I guess if I had to pick, I would take 20 minutes before each meal, rather than 5 hours to fill my freezer with bags of food for my crock pot.
BUT, with that being said - I have my reasons.
I've never cooked frozen fresh potatoes, tomatoes, etc There are some foods I just cant imagine eating after freezing - even if I have bought them from the store frozen, I am always worried I will prep them wrong, and they will come out bad.
So, whats your take on it?
At any rate, I'm going to add some recipes I have collected from the web for Crock pot meals - frozen or fresh!
I hope you all enjoy them!
-Patty H.
The All-in-One Parent on FaceBook
Nothing Last Forever!
They said the only things certain in life are life, death, and taxes. Well, I need to add another; all good things must come to an end.
Yes, I said it. And think about it, think of all the things you have enjoyed that eventually came to an end.
· A family vacation
· A good book
· A good movie
· A trip to an amusement park
· A lunch with an old friend
· Maybe, the life of a close friend
· The life of a family member
· The life of a family pet
· A family dinner
· Special time with the one you love
· A special afternoon with your child
· A family reunion
· Cooking dinner together with your family
You see, there are a lot of things that we do that are special. The problem is, we don’t always appreciate them until they are over. What can we do to appreciate them today? What can we do so that we remember these moments, lives, or activities even after they are over?
Well, I bet the number one thing that popped into your head is photographs or video tapes. But lets me honest, all those photos can fade, get sun damage, DVD’s get scratched, hard drives crash, online files can get corrupted, even tiny SD cards can get erased. Trust me I have had these things happen.
But, when those things are gone, what do we have left?
While you were taking photos or recording the videos, were you more interested in the subject of the frame, or the moment taking place? Were you worried about little Sarah’s hair and smile looking perfect, or were you just wanted to capture her just as she was running around on that playground. When that photo is damaged or lost, will you remember her playing, or will you remember how hard it was to get her to sit still on the slide?
You see, there is no point of capturing the moment if you have to stage the moment. If you spend your time worrying about how the photo will look, you will spend hardly any time enjoying the moment you are trying so hard to capture.
My favorite photos of Kathleen, or of anyone, are the ones when they aren’t looking, or don’t know I’m taking them, or when they ignore the camera all together.
THAT is when the moment is happening, THAT is what you want to capture. I mean, think about it. If you just wanted to take pictures of Johnny sitting on the swing, you could pack him up, grab the camera, and drive around and try out every playground in the city until you found just the right background. Then you would shoot 20 photos to see where you get the best light, least shadow, and best background scenery.
But that’s not what you want to catch is it? Because by frame 10, Johnny’s smile is weak, and he is slouching, and you’re fighting over getting him to look like he is really swinging, or really having fun.
What you really want, is to get a photo, and keep the memory of Johnny laughing and playing, and having fun with his little cousin, or sister, or best friend at the park. So, if those things are already happening, why stage it?
Let Johnny play, and snap the photos, 5, 10, 15, 30 at a time if you need to, and just pick the one you love the most. Because those are the memories you are trying to capture.
But let’s face it; you can’t always have a camera at your hip, so what about the other times? What can you do to make those times special so that they are never forgotten?
- Patty H.
The All-in-One Parent on FaceBook
- Patty H.
The All-in-One Parent on FaceBook
Stay At Home Moms and Dads, Intro
Its not 1950 anymore, and things have changed, a lot!!
Mom's aren't the only ones staying home with the kids anymore! And not all households have a Mommy! Times have changed, and so have us SAHPs!
I remember spending a lot of time at my Grandma & Papa's home. He worked, and she stayed at home. She did the cooking, the cleaning, the washing, and the shopping - My Papa did the working, and the household repairs.
In my home - my Mom & Dad both worked, we didn't spend much time with them. When my Dad became disabled, he did everything - cooking, cleaning, laundry, etc.
On a personal note - I remember my dad always being quite angry, and vocal about it, but when he couldn't work anymore, and became the SAHP, he became even more angry. I am sure he felt emasculated. He wasn't bringing home the "bacon" anymore, and he was doing the woman's work.
I remember thinking, I never want to do that. I never want to make my man feel less than how my Grandma made my Papa feel. But now I realize, it isn't about the man and the woman, its about the roles each plays, and its about each of them feeling satisfied in their roles.
If the man works and the woman stays at home - is he happy leaving the kids behind for work everyday to provide for them? If so, great! Is he able to set time aside on his days off to bond with them? Is the Mom happy spending her time cooking, cleaning, carpooling, and checking homework? If so, great! That's all that matters! And if the roles are reversed, and the Dad is at home, and the Mom is working, great! So long as they are both happy in the role! And if the two parent home is a same-sex couple, as long as each parent is happy in the role they are playing, that is ALL THAT MATTERS!!!!
Remember - even if we don't vocalize how we feel inside, the kids know when something is up!
So, that's what this blog and page are about.
Its about sharing tips about how to handle the household - be it a man or a woman doing the house duties. Cleaning, cooking, laundry, time management - learning to master all these things are what makes the home run smoothly. And even when we do master these things, there is no guarantee that the house will run smooth.
So, here I will share links I found, recipes I have tried, ideas I like to use, and things I would LIKE to TRY and see if they work.
I encourage you to do the same!!
Check out the link to my brand new FaceBook page below
www.facebook.com/SAHMandD
-Patty H.
Mom's aren't the only ones staying home with the kids anymore! And not all households have a Mommy! Times have changed, and so have us SAHPs!
I remember spending a lot of time at my Grandma & Papa's home. He worked, and she stayed at home. She did the cooking, the cleaning, the washing, and the shopping - My Papa did the working, and the household repairs.
In my home - my Mom & Dad both worked, we didn't spend much time with them. When my Dad became disabled, he did everything - cooking, cleaning, laundry, etc.
On a personal note - I remember my dad always being quite angry, and vocal about it, but when he couldn't work anymore, and became the SAHP, he became even more angry. I am sure he felt emasculated. He wasn't bringing home the "bacon" anymore, and he was doing the woman's work.
I remember thinking, I never want to do that. I never want to make my man feel less than how my Grandma made my Papa feel. But now I realize, it isn't about the man and the woman, its about the roles each plays, and its about each of them feeling satisfied in their roles.
If the man works and the woman stays at home - is he happy leaving the kids behind for work everyday to provide for them? If so, great! Is he able to set time aside on his days off to bond with them? Is the Mom happy spending her time cooking, cleaning, carpooling, and checking homework? If so, great! That's all that matters! And if the roles are reversed, and the Dad is at home, and the Mom is working, great! So long as they are both happy in the role! And if the two parent home is a same-sex couple, as long as each parent is happy in the role they are playing, that is ALL THAT MATTERS!!!!
Remember - even if we don't vocalize how we feel inside, the kids know when something is up!
So, that's what this blog and page are about.
Its about sharing tips about how to handle the household - be it a man or a woman doing the house duties. Cleaning, cooking, laundry, time management - learning to master all these things are what makes the home run smoothly. And even when we do master these things, there is no guarantee that the house will run smooth.
So, here I will share links I found, recipes I have tried, ideas I like to use, and things I would LIKE to TRY and see if they work.
I encourage you to do the same!!
Check out the link to my brand new FaceBook page below
www.facebook.com/SAHMandD
-Patty H.
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