I am back (again) - you know those times in life when it seems like it is one thing right after another!? Well, that has been my life for the last few months.
I am excited to say that I am looking forward to holding myself accountable and really digging into keeping a schedule with my posts. One thing to remember, if you don't follow me on INSTAGRAM you should! For those times in life when it is crazy busy that is one platform that is always ready to receive easy and quick creative outlets for me.
My grandpa has been really sick and I have been trying to be there for my family during the challenging times. Good news is that as of right now he is looking a lot better; praying it continues on the up climb!
Next - Health update - with everything going on I have been trying to make sure to eat cleaner and much better. I have several #PCOSFriendly recipes and menu items that I have been making and love (again, check out INSTA!) My last OBGYN appointment went AMAZING and I am happy to report that I am still healthy enough to stay off meds for PCOS and started Prenatal Vitamins. Don't worry there will not be #swookies in the near future, but they are definitely beginning to be a daily thought :) I have started working out again (and omg do I feel sore) but through the pain I also feel great after. I will continue to try maintaining a mostly clean diet and keeping my family goals as a focus.
READING CHALLENGE - Again, Insta and Twitter have been amazing "easy" platforms for me when life is hectic, so please follow me on those for ongoing updates! However, I have now read 12 of 39-40 prompts (I know so far behind); but this is the most progress I have made in the last few years of doing the #PopSugarReadingChallenge so I am happy with that. I am just over halfway through "The Last Days of the Romanovs Tragedy at Exaterinburg" by Helen Rappaport and I can say the language is beautiful. I love the way it is written and I am hoping to finish this weekend so that I can begin book 2 about the Romanov daughters (also filling a prompt).
Outside of that, well I am sure there are many updates that I am not thinking of at this moment, but the next exciting thing is that my longtime friend Sarah (we've been friends for 12 years!?) started her own YouTube Vlog and it is fun to watch a mom of 3 and how she seems to manage it so well! We may do a collab video in the future, which I am very excited about.
For now, I will continue to update via Insta and Twitter and will hopefully set and maintain a goal for a new video each week on my channel. Thanks for all the love and support and please share, like, subscribe, follow, all that fun jazz! Love you all!
Friday, November 2, 2018
Sunday, July 22, 2018
Welcome back 😂
Has it seriously been 6+ months since my last blog?! I am sorry!
I hope you have been following adventures on my Instagram and FB page!
Family stuff, work stuff, and amazing honeymoon in Italy with my husband and a family reunion with all the siblings together again!
What's next!? New job! Also, serious talk and focus on my PCOS journey and my hudband and I's transition to a healthier lifestyle.
Why? If you don't have PCOS I am not sure you can truly deeply understand unless you support someone who does. If you do, then I am sure you have experienced the despair and the swings of motivation to helplessness. I can't help but feel that I need and want to share my experiences and journey because it is therapeutic for me and maybe just maybe it can help someone out there going through the same thing, but feeling alone. You are not alone.
Stay tuned loves...
Wednesday, February 7, 2018
Gidget Gets Organized - My Journey - Part 1 - Vanity
Does your pesky vanity or "prep station" get disorganized and cluttered in chaos? I am kidding. I won't make this sound like a weird infomercial. Monday was a late night for me, I had attended my first local city council meeting, so I hadn't updated #CujoForBujo video (check out today's earlier blog entry for that update).
Yesterday, I went through an insanely random, but quite effective, cleaning frenzy! I started on #Gidget'sNextJourney into organization. I did a crazy massive clean up of our apartment, including the bathroom, bedroom, vanity, and kitchen! My husband was really surprised, and really happy, when he got home. I have just started the #organization process, the vanity area being our first "victim". I highly suggest playing inspirational music to get you motivated! Make a playlist, find that perfect station on Pandora, whatever helps you get in the zone!
I included a brief talk about the bathroom, simply because in our apartment the vanity and bathroom are right next to one another. Not everyone will have a vanity, but I figured that the same sorts of things that one would find in my vanity, many people have in their bathrooms. What things clutter your "getting ready" area? Make up? Medicine? Accessories? Check out my progress video below!
My favorite part of what I did with this area was honestly clearing the counter space of clutter and putting like items together. I don't know if you noticed in the video, but the hair accessories and items (straightener, dryer, etc.) are all on the same side of the sink. The rest more "self-care" items are on the right, divided up between the drawer and the basket underneath the cabinet. Jewelry is also something that, at least for me, I have a lot of pieces that I rarely wear, but like to have for those unexpected moments. I am certainly not a "hoarder" of jewelry, but tend to lose a lot of small items from time to time, especially earrings! Now with an organized area and system I can at least develop a habit of "prepping" and "de-accessorizing" in the same location, putting the items in a safe place.
My best tip from the video is utilizing the tools and space that you have available to you. The towel rack, for example. I have never really used the towel rack in the vanity area for towels, so it sat there underused and in the way. Using it to house and organize my necklaces was a perfect idea for me. Not only was I putting the towel rack to use, but I love being able to have them 'freely' hanging so I can look and determine which one will work best for my needs.
I hope you have enjoyed this first leg of my #organizationjourney and that you keep following me in all walks of my #lifejourney ahead. #GidgetGetsOrganized first post is in the books, now the bigger dilemma - what area should we target next!?
Yesterday, I went through an insanely random, but quite effective, cleaning frenzy! I started on #Gidget'sNextJourney into organization. I did a crazy massive clean up of our apartment, including the bathroom, bedroom, vanity, and kitchen! My husband was really surprised, and really happy, when he got home. I have just started the #organization process, the vanity area being our first "victim". I highly suggest playing inspirational music to get you motivated! Make a playlist, find that perfect station on Pandora, whatever helps you get in the zone!
I included a brief talk about the bathroom, simply because in our apartment the vanity and bathroom are right next to one another. Not everyone will have a vanity, but I figured that the same sorts of things that one would find in my vanity, many people have in their bathrooms. What things clutter your "getting ready" area? Make up? Medicine? Accessories? Check out my progress video below!
My favorite part of what I did with this area was honestly clearing the counter space of clutter and putting like items together. I don't know if you noticed in the video, but the hair accessories and items (straightener, dryer, etc.) are all on the same side of the sink. The rest more "self-care" items are on the right, divided up between the drawer and the basket underneath the cabinet. Jewelry is also something that, at least for me, I have a lot of pieces that I rarely wear, but like to have for those unexpected moments. I am certainly not a "hoarder" of jewelry, but tend to lose a lot of small items from time to time, especially earrings! Now with an organized area and system I can at least develop a habit of "prepping" and "de-accessorizing" in the same location, putting the items in a safe place.
My best tip from the video is utilizing the tools and space that you have available to you. The towel rack, for example. I have never really used the towel rack in the vanity area for towels, so it sat there underused and in the way. Using it to house and organize my necklaces was a perfect idea for me. Not only was I putting the towel rack to use, but I love being able to have them 'freely' hanging so I can look and determine which one will work best for my needs.
I hope you have enjoyed this first leg of my #organizationjourney and that you keep following me in all walks of my #lifejourney ahead. #GidgetGetsOrganized first post is in the books, now the bigger dilemma - what area should we target next!?
Reading Wednesday with SG - Reading Challenge and Bullet Journal Update!
It is Wednesday! Reading Challenge Update, #CujoForBujo, and #GidgetGetsOrganized !
I haven't done a whole lot of updating to the bullet journal, mostly because it has been prepped for February. I was at a local city council meeting on Monday, so I was unable to post the video!
As for the #PopSugarReadingChallenge2018 update, I am about 1/3 of the way through Helter Skelter. I am still completely in awe with the goings on at the LAPD during the early parts of the investigation. I know that the subject matter is a difficult one to read. If you are into American History and #truecrime I think you would really enjoy it.
I just started Part 3, am curious to see where it goes. A large majority of people are probably aware of the overview of what occurred or recognize the name "Charles Manson", but this book goes in depth behind the scenes of the crimes as it unfolded for the LAPD and the nation. Bugliosi does switch to a first person narrative in Part 3, but thus far I don't hate it. Check in next week for the next update on #CujoForBujo and #ReadingWednesday!
What are you reading? What inspires you to read? Comment below or leave a comment on the YouTube video! Thanks for keeping up!
I haven't done a whole lot of updating to the bullet journal, mostly because it has been prepped for February. I was at a local city council meeting on Monday, so I was unable to post the video!
As for the #PopSugarReadingChallenge2018 update, I am about 1/3 of the way through Helter Skelter. I am still completely in awe with the goings on at the LAPD during the early parts of the investigation. I know that the subject matter is a difficult one to read. If you are into American History and #truecrime I think you would really enjoy it.
I just started Part 3, am curious to see where it goes. A large majority of people are probably aware of the overview of what occurred or recognize the name "Charles Manson", but this book goes in depth behind the scenes of the crimes as it unfolded for the LAPD and the nation. Bugliosi does switch to a first person narrative in Part 3, but thus far I don't hate it. Check in next week for the next update on #CujoForBujo and #ReadingWednesday!
What are you reading? What inspires you to read? Comment below or leave a comment on the YouTube video! Thanks for keeping up!
Friday, February 2, 2018
Family & Friend Friday - Flashback to Poland
I realize that it has been almost 2 weeks
since I shared my flashback to my Poland trip! Check out my #TunaBoat blog to
find out what is current, but for those who love travel and history, this
experience flashback is for you!
July 8 - Landed
We arrived in Chicago - I
slept some on the plane, my friend read. We asked the lady behind the desk if
they can change our flight and she told us we would have to go to customer
service, so we waited in line for a while, so my friend went to get our bags as
I waited in line to no avail, I might add. Apparently they could only help
people with flight issues scheduled that day ((might I add this may have been
an issue that arose for our return flight home and I was trying to fix in
advance)). So we met back up in baggage claim and walked into our absolutely
gorgeous hotel! We ordered room service before we learned that other people
from our trip also checked in (otherwise we probably would have met up with
them!) I ordered a delicious steak with roasted potatoes and brocolini and a
raspberry coulis chocolate fudge cake. My friend ordered a margherrita pizza
and a cheesecake. We laughed and talked lots before turning into bed. I am
lucky that I fall asleep easily. My friend is used to a softer bed and had a
lot of trouble sleeping... my snoring/humming didn't seem to bother her too
much, although she said at one point she tested to see, if she moved around
more my humming calmed down and gets quieter. (I do this weird thing when I
sleep that sounds like the baby Pegasus from Disney's Hercules).
July 9th - 8am
- my friend has already been awake for a while. I woke up and we both got ready
and are going to go down stairs and meet up with some people from the trip for
breakfast... so exciting!
6pm - Well, we didn't meet anyone for breakfast. They
started around 10:00am when we were finishing. We went back to the room and
were going to wait, but decided to head to terminal 5 (our meet up gate for the
group). We were early. VERY. There wasn't a lot of seating but we found a place
after about an hour we went to a few seats nearby after over hearing people
next to us talking about the trip. We met a couple from Billings, and a lady
from Washington state. After waiting a few more hours, the Terra Heute group arrived
by bus. We were given our lanyards and quickly lined up in the queue to get
ready to have our luggage checked. It was easy experience through security. I
was really impressed! Once through I wanted to wait for this girl Megan and her
mom. International area had little to offer. There were about six different
places to eat, one was a burger place that looked AMAZING, but the line was
fairly long. There was another place that looked like they offered some sort of
gourmet pizza (I don't know - in the photo there was a fried egg on top and I
was thinking it was fun to try - but we didn't.) We found a small shop where
they served coffee, so we decided to stop. My friend got a tea and a peanut
butter and jelly. I got myself a small iced latte and a ham and Swiss. We walked
to a small exchange place and I gave the $36.00 for 120-140 zloty. The lady was
super nice enough to even waive the exchange fee! When we finished walking
around a bit we made our way to the gate where we would depart. After about 20
minutes, the flight to Shanghai left and we were able to sit right next to the
Holocaust survivor leading the trip, Eva Mozes Kor. There we met a couple more
people, including Addy. Addy made it on a trip before. Another woman has been
on the trip 3 times! She went on the January 70th commemorative trip. When
she brought it up Eva said she was very brave to do so. They said it was also
super cold. It sounded awful. They said there were so many dignitary and
political persons there security was really high. The worse part was that there
were heated tents where all the important people gave their speeches, while the
survivors sat out in the cold! Then afterwards they wanted Eva to do a speech
but that there was some young person that said he was going to talk first. Eva
was tired and cold and basically told them off, took the mic off and told her
son that they were done and leaving. When she returned to Terra Heute she wrote
a letter saying they won't be doing another commemoration. She said it should
be for the survivors but now it is a big hoopla. She will just do her own
tours. We sat and talked for a long while. We also got our return flight home
changed where we don't leave until 7 am and have an hour and a half layover in
Denver. Our flight began to board the back first (so smart!). We sat in row 18.
There was a kid from Alaska next to me. The trip was his dad's idea but things
happened and his dad was unable to come, so his dad said it was either him by
himself or no one. So he is here. I am sure his dad is really excited for him.
We just ate our first meal... and I already feel the drowsiness kicking in....
Getting Crafty in the Kitchen - No Carb Tuna "Bowl"
I am finally posting a blog! You know after vacations you need literally another vacation? That was me this week!
I fully intended to use my last day of vacation to begin my #organizationjourney but #failed. I was successful in finishing #Unbroken my 2nd book of many to come for the #PopSugarReadingChallenge2018.
I am very much in love with Louie Zamperini's story, the way Laura Hillenbrand captured the intense experience he had, the passion and determination he had throughout everything. I highly recommend it, #GidgetApproved!
Want to know something else which has won my seal of approval? #TunaPickleBoats. Yes folks, that is right. A low-carb (no bread) pickle boat carrying a heap of tuna salad. I personally LOVE chopping up pickles (same way my mom made it for me when I was a kid). I saw a video from #Delish for a Tuna Pickle Melt. I personally have never had a tuna melt. The thought of warm or hot chopped tuna just gives me the heebie jeebies. However, I was inspired to try just the cold salad version that I like in the same dilly vinegary vessel. I filmed the process and uploaded to my YouTube channel, check it out here:
You can totally substitute the mayo for anything to your liking. Even add mustard, small diced onion or celery, customize it to your preference. But keep the pickle boat! It totally makes the meal!
I did learn that the pickles carried more liquid inside of them then I realized, which made my tuna salad mixture a little on the watery side. Next time I make this, I am going to slice the pickles, but then place them face down on a paper towel or kitchen towel in order to pull out some of the extra liquid. You will still get the "meat" out of the pickle, just without the extra juice!
So what is next on the agenda? Well, I started book 3: "Helter Skelter" by Vincent Bugliosi with Curt Gentry, a true crime novel about tragic Tate and LaBianca murders and the Manson family. I am only 75 pages into it, but it reads really fast and I am enamored by the insanity surrounding the way the investigations were conducted! It is written well, thus far, as I mentioned it reads fast. It hooks you in so I find myself getting lost, time whirring by as I read. I love books that have the ability to pull in the reader.
I clearly enjoy crafting, so my goal (hopefully!) for the upcoming couple of days, besides work, is staying motivated to start organizing my craft supplies. I have recently worked on several swaps and my crafting supplies have exploded and smothered our living quarters. I will try and document the process. We also have #SpringCleaning just around the corner. I fully intend to reorganize and clean out all the nooks and crannies of our little apartment. I want to utilize the room we do have in the most efficient way. I will be drawing on inspiration from Pinterest, YouTube, magazines, articles, and much more! I hope you come along for my #journey!
I fully intended to use my last day of vacation to begin my #organizationjourney but #failed. I was successful in finishing #Unbroken my 2nd book of many to come for the #PopSugarReadingChallenge2018.
I am very much in love with Louie Zamperini's story, the way Laura Hillenbrand captured the intense experience he had, the passion and determination he had throughout everything. I highly recommend it, #GidgetApproved!
Want to know something else which has won my seal of approval? #TunaPickleBoats. Yes folks, that is right. A low-carb (no bread) pickle boat carrying a heap of tuna salad. I personally LOVE chopping up pickles (same way my mom made it for me when I was a kid). I saw a video from #Delish for a Tuna Pickle Melt. I personally have never had a tuna melt. The thought of warm or hot chopped tuna just gives me the heebie jeebies. However, I was inspired to try just the cold salad version that I like in the same dilly vinegary vessel. I filmed the process and uploaded to my YouTube channel, check it out here:
You can totally substitute the mayo for anything to your liking. Even add mustard, small diced onion or celery, customize it to your preference. But keep the pickle boat! It totally makes the meal!
I did learn that the pickles carried more liquid inside of them then I realized, which made my tuna salad mixture a little on the watery side. Next time I make this, I am going to slice the pickles, but then place them face down on a paper towel or kitchen towel in order to pull out some of the extra liquid. You will still get the "meat" out of the pickle, just without the extra juice!
So what is next on the agenda? Well, I started book 3: "Helter Skelter" by Vincent Bugliosi with Curt Gentry, a true crime novel about tragic Tate and LaBianca murders and the Manson family. I am only 75 pages into it, but it reads really fast and I am enamored by the insanity surrounding the way the investigations were conducted! It is written well, thus far, as I mentioned it reads fast. It hooks you in so I find myself getting lost, time whirring by as I read. I love books that have the ability to pull in the reader.
I clearly enjoy crafting, so my goal (hopefully!) for the upcoming couple of days, besides work, is staying motivated to start organizing my craft supplies. I have recently worked on several swaps and my crafting supplies have exploded and smothered our living quarters. I will try and document the process. We also have #SpringCleaning just around the corner. I fully intend to reorganize and clean out all the nooks and crannies of our little apartment. I want to utilize the room we do have in the most efficient way. I will be drawing on inspiration from Pinterest, YouTube, magazines, articles, and much more! I hope you come along for my #journey!
Wednesday, January 31, 2018
Travel Log Day 3 - Burgers and Butterflies
I am so far behind on my blog it is sad! I am sure you all have been on a vacation that you are wrapped up in enjoying you forget some things, too!
Sunday was amazing. We went to Red Robin for the first time in our life and it was pretty good! I had the bacon n bleu burger. I don't think I have ever had one that included Cajun spices and mushrooms and I was in 7th heaven!
Afterwards we went to the Butterfly House and Aquarium. It was an interesting experience. I enjoyed all the butterflies, wings fluttering all around. The aquarium was definitely smaller than anticipated but had some interesting finds as well. I even got to touch a shark! (Okay pretty sure it was a lemon shark? Oh and my husband had to hold my hand with me so I wouldnt pull back, but that's what husbands are for!) I even got an anenome hug!
We went back to the hotel, I read a little, then we traversed down to the pool where we swam for hours, having the pool all to ourselves.
We returned to the room, cleaned up, and headed to CRAVE for our "big" meal of the trip. I tried their sushi, phenomenol. went had their garlic wings, which left some to be desired in the seasoning department. When I read "lemon garlic wings" I expected a punch of spicy citrus but only got small hints here and there of garlic and the char taste from the grill.
After the rest of our dinner (nothing to write home about) we returned to the room, had a couple drinks, and watched some TV before falling asleep in the heavenly cloud of a bed.
Monday morning came too soon, as do most last days of vacation. We finished packing up and headed downstairs for a final breakfast (satisfyingly delicious).
We hit the road for home. The drive was much more pleasant as it wasn't as windy as the drive down at the beginning of our journey. Why does the drive home always seem shorter than the drive embarked in the start of a road trip?
We made it home in good time, lugged our packs upstairs, then settled in for an afternoon nap.
The rest of the night was just taking time to enjoy being home, watching some shows, working on some bullet journalin, and reading.
I'll catch up with you soon with the goals this #ScrappyGidget has for #organization and #cleaneating, so stay tuned!
Monday, January 29, 2018
Cujo for Bujo! Second January Update - A Glance Into February
It saddens me to say that vacation is almost over. I am "missing" a day in my blog; Sunday we went to the Butterfly House and Aquarium (much smaller than anticipated) but I still thought the butterfly house was magical. We went to the store then back to the hotel where we spent 2-3 hours swimming in a pool just to ourselves! It was so much fun! We had a couple drinks and then we went to the room, showered, and got ready for a nice dinner. We enjoyed dinner at CRAVE. The appetizer and sushi were phenomenal but the primary dishes were a little underwhelming. The meal, although left much to be desired, wasn't the worst meal ever. We then went back to the room, relaxed, watched some TV, then fell asleep. We woke up this morning, had an amazing breakfast, then packed up, loaded the car, and hit the road.
Riddle me this... why does the drive home always seem to be shorter than the drive to your vacation location? We got home, unpacked everything, then took a nap! We were smart and took an extra day between traveling and returning home. I am sad to admit that we cheated one last time and ordered pizza. It was NO WHERE near as delicious as Tomicellos from our vacation. After dinner I updated a couple things in the bullet journal and have shared it below!
I am sorry that this posting is so late! Tomorrow, even though it is "technically" the last "vacation" day before returning to work, I plan on working on some organization of the house. Hopefully my goal of "purging the Pantry" will come to fruition so we can begin our #cleaneating journey!
The rest of tonight will be filled with enjoying being home, taking a breather, and working on #Unbroken, of course. What kind of #booknerd would I be if I didn't work in SOME reading!?
Catch me tomorrow as we take a look at the #cleaninggoals and #ScrappyGidgetGetsOrganized goals for the upcoming weeks ahead. Don't forget to like and subscribe to my YouTube channel and follow me on social media for the most recent updates into this #journey.
(By the way, if you have not subscribed or followed, please do so and check back on older posts! I didn't have a laptop with me on vacation, but still posted on #Instagram and #Twitter to keep everyone up to date in my travel journey!)
Riddle me this... why does the drive home always seem to be shorter than the drive to your vacation location? We got home, unpacked everything, then took a nap! We were smart and took an extra day between traveling and returning home. I am sad to admit that we cheated one last time and ordered pizza. It was NO WHERE near as delicious as Tomicellos from our vacation. After dinner I updated a couple things in the bullet journal and have shared it below!
I am sorry that this posting is so late! Tomorrow, even though it is "technically" the last "vacation" day before returning to work, I plan on working on some organization of the house. Hopefully my goal of "purging the Pantry" will come to fruition so we can begin our #cleaneating journey!
The rest of tonight will be filled with enjoying being home, taking a breather, and working on #Unbroken, of course. What kind of #booknerd would I be if I didn't work in SOME reading!?
Catch me tomorrow as we take a look at the #cleaninggoals and #ScrappyGidgetGetsOrganized goals for the upcoming weeks ahead. Don't forget to like and subscribe to my YouTube channel and follow me on social media for the most recent updates into this #journey.
(By the way, if you have not subscribed or followed, please do so and check back on older posts! I didn't have a laptop with me on vacation, but still posted on #Instagram and #Twitter to keep everyone up to date in my travel journey!)
Sunday, January 28, 2018
Travel Log Day 2 - Gidget Goes to A Concert
Today was very relaxing leading into one hell of a concert! We woke up casually, not forcing ourselves to get out of the luxuriously comfortable bed. We mosied down to the hotel breakfast where we enjoyed a full meal of eggs, bacon, potatoes, bagel, and hot coffee with caramel creamer.
Once finished we ran down to fhe car parked in the underground garage to get some of our waters and up we went back to the room.
He perused the internet, finding amusement in threads and posts from Reddit and the Twittersphere, while I read through more of Unbroken. We finally decided to take the risk of going down to the hotel pool, hoping that there weren't too many rambunctious kids (we just wanted to have a quiet relaxing morning). Luckily there was only a couple older kids with their dad and they weren't there for long. The pool was slightly colder than anticipated, brisk, yet refreshing. I swear I was a mermaid in another life! The hot tub was most welcomed and we sat and talked about random things.
Finally after about an hour we went back to the room, showered away the chlorine and chemicals, deciding to order one of our few cheat meals from this weekend; a delectable, ooeey, gooey, pizza from Tomicellis. Covered in crisp spicy pepperonies, drowning in a seductive savory pool of extra pizza sauce with an extra helping of ooey gooey creamy mozzarella cheese, we enjoyed this beauty in bed while we watched part of "Blended" on TV. Then we took a nap, preparing ourselves for the late night ahead.
The time had come to get ready for the concert. We got prepped, dressed, and pumped to see one of our favorite bands.
We headed out. The venue wasn't too difficult to find, parking however, was a nightmare. We didn't mind parking a good distance away, being in the last row of the lot, it would be easy to find our car at the end. We entered the center to find a large line assembled, a variety of people corralled like cattle waiting to be led through security. We started seeing people wearing necklaces made of pretzels, packaged string cheeses, and small packaged jerky sticks. I thought the snecklace was ingenious but was slightly confused. We probably waited in the line for about 20 minutes, making our way through the winding maze of fabric dividers before finally making it to have our tickets scanned. We entered a room where we were handed small shot glasses, etched with a "Booze Boys" logo. We exchanged confused glances but went along. As we turned the corner we were surprised to see a large variety of boots and vendor tents, each one offering a sample of their beer or ale. "Maybe it's a holding area before they open the doors to the concert arena."
Finally our confused state was too much and we asked a security guard where we were supposed to go for our assigned seats. His confused look said it all. How does one have assigned seats to a Beer Convention? Yes folks, we somehow managed to be in the wrong place, a terrible side affect of being sheep and following a herd of others. He helped us receive an "exit scan" of our tickets so we wouldn't have any difficulties with our ticket scanning at the concert entrance and we were on our way.
We arrived at a second security entry point, having to throw away the free beer sample shot glasses and the two bottles waters we had JUST purchased at $3.00 a pop. Finally we emerged through the other side to see a swarm of familiarity; Avenged Sevenfold, Breaking Benjamin, and Bullet for my Valentine fans meandering about looking a meechandise, buzzing with bated anticipation for the show soon to come.
We bought a couple t-shirts and a pack of guitar picks to remember and commemorate the event, making our way then to our amazing front row seats. We laughed and joked wildly about the confusion with the beerfest event, wondering how many other poor souls would end up walking around, enjoying beer samples before realizing no doors were opening to the show.
Finally, the show began, opening with Bullet for my Valentine. I have too many pictures to share, but had posted some on my Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook Page accounts if you would like to check them out. Breaking Benjamin was up next, putting on a fantastic show. They were a lot better than we had anticipated and definitely got us ready for the closer with Avenged. A7X rocked and we were lit with adrenaline. Can't put into words what great showmen the group is! After a final encore we snaked our way through stairs and people to exit quickly hoping to get out before the mass exodous of people flooded the parking area.
We were surprised to see that it had snowed a couple inches, traversing slick parking lot to our car parked at the back. When we got there I started the car while my amazing husband cleaned off the snow. We found a 24/7 fast food joint to fill our gargling bellies, bringing the late meal home to the hotel to enjoy while we talked about how awesome the concert was, and how utterly confusing the beer event was. We definitely thought they could have had signs or someone at least announcing clarification of what the line was for. After some episodes of Parks and Rec, we turned in, our hearts, bellies, and souls full and enriched.
Today we plan on going to the Butterfly house and Aquarium. I am really excited. Although I doubt my husbands selected activity for fun isn't a room of butterflies and sea creatures, he is playing the role of excited husband very well :-)
Check back later for more of this journey and follow me on Twitter and Instagram #ScrappyGidget @ScrappyGidget for live and in the moment updates!
Bye for now!
Friday, January 26, 2018
Travel Log Day 1 - Gidget Goes to A Concert
Today was an incredibly long but exciting day! First off, my husband and I stayed up WAAYYY too late last night and procrastinated some things way too long.
Good news is the snacks were prepared and ready for our road trip! After work we finished getting everything together (it was all prepped and ready just not put together).
Shut off the lights and away we went! The weather was beautiful, a little chilly, but good none the less. There were some high wind areas which slightly intimidated me at times, but soon it calmed down and the rest was pleasant.
We picked a great station and jammes out to good ol' tunes for about half the time. We tried listening to an audio book but it was making hubby tired so we stopped. He was amazing enough to quiz me with some Brain Quiz questions, though! I love trivia so that was fun for me.
We thought we had lost our good radio station about 2/3 the way through the drive, but finally found another comparable station, which energized us once more.
The sunset was BREATHTAKING! I wish I could have taken a photo!
We finally arrived at our destination, checking into a GORGEOUS Hilton Garden Inn. Made it to the room, unpacked a little, then decided we were pretty hungry.
After being told the wait at the hotel restaurant was 30-45 min we decided to trek back out and find a local good eats place. We found Phillips Diner and the atmosphere was comfortable and laid back; a perfect setting after a long drive. We ordered cheese curds (omg yum, amazing, I know they aren't healthy but yes please). He laughed at me when I said "omg they are so good they taste like grilled cheese!" 😑
I had a small salad, a burger and only a few of the fries from the heaping mound. It was delicious.
We are now back at the hotel debating on what to do... Go to the pool? Relax in the room? (I fear if we sit in bed to watch TV we will get too comfortable and fall asleep... But it is only 8:00! No time for that!
For now, I am sending love to you all with this update and hope you follow along for the rest of our first travel adventure as husband and wife!
Bye for now!
Getting Crafty In the Kitchen - Baked Chickpeas with SG
I am sorry that I didn't get this posted last night! As you know, today is TRAVEL DAY! My husband and I were getting things prepped and ready so we can leave right after work today, and ALAS, technical difficulties during the upload process!
I wanted to find an alternative #healthysnack to peanuts. Peanuts are a great healthy snack, in moderation. My husband was diagnosed with Diverticulitis last year; he recovered perfectly, but we have been working toward finding some alternative food snacks that are healthy and are good in conjunction with both the diverticula and my PCOS.
I have seen Baked Chickpeas all over Pinterest for a long time. I couldn't fathom how a baked garbanzo bean would be something that I would enjoy. With our trip, I wanted to make a healthy snack that was low in sodium and easy to travel. Finally decided to try this seemingly questionable recipe, asking myself #IsItEdible?
I am so excited. My husband actually really liked it as well. Not only is it PCOS friendly but it is also a good higher fiber snack for a healthy digestive diet. This #kidfriendly #healthysnack is sure to become a #familyfavorite and we can't wait to try different seasoning variations.
Other snacks that we have prepped and will be taking on our trip are apples, bananas, grapes, whole wheat crackers, low-fat cheese, and our "guilty pleasure", low-sodium Gardettos.
We also decided to get a large 24 pack of bottled water to take with us. Not only will we have the water to drink on the road, but we will also be able to pack some into the hotel room with us. This way we can enjoy hydration without paying $2.00+ for the bottled water in the room :-)
What kind of snacks do you like to take on road trips?
Check back later for the first #GidgetHitsTheRoad travel blog/vlogs for our first journey as husband and wife!
Bye for now!
#GidgetApproved - Baked Chickpeas with Ranch Seasoning:
Tools: baking sheet, parchment paper, clean kitchen towel, collander
Ingredients: 1 -15 ozOrganic chicpeas, drained and well rinsed (optional: remove outer skin casings)
Extra Virgin Olive Oil (appx 1 Tbs)
Kosher Salt or Sea salt (optional, about 1 tsp)
Ranch Seasoning: 1/2 tsp ground thyme, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp dill weed, 1/2 tsp ground black pepper, 1 tsp onion powder (I made my batch without because I was out of this ingredient and it was still phenomenal)
Directions:
Pre-heat oven to 450 degrees. Pour the chickpeas into the strainer over the sink, rinse with cool water until thoroughly rinsed. (At this point you can remove the outer skins but you do not have to). Lay out the chickpeas on a clean kitchen towel, cover, and let "dry" for about 20-25 minutes.
Meanwhile, mix together your "Ranch Seasoning"
Remove chick peas from kitchen towel into a small mixing bowl. Drizzle with 1 Tbs. olive oil and sprinkle with salt (optional).
Cover a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread out the chickpeas onto the parchment paper into a single layer. Bake at 450 for 25-30 minutes or until crispy.
Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle seasoning over chickpeas to coat while hot. Let cool and serve.
Store at room temperature in an air-tight container.
Original Ranch Seasoning Recipe: https://pulses.org/nap/pulse-tips/roasted-chickpeas-5-ways/
I wanted to find an alternative #healthysnack to peanuts. Peanuts are a great healthy snack, in moderation. My husband was diagnosed with Diverticulitis last year; he recovered perfectly, but we have been working toward finding some alternative food snacks that are healthy and are good in conjunction with both the diverticula and my PCOS.
I have seen Baked Chickpeas all over Pinterest for a long time. I couldn't fathom how a baked garbanzo bean would be something that I would enjoy. With our trip, I wanted to make a healthy snack that was low in sodium and easy to travel. Finally decided to try this seemingly questionable recipe, asking myself #IsItEdible?
I am so excited. My husband actually really liked it as well. Not only is it PCOS friendly but it is also a good higher fiber snack for a healthy digestive diet. This #kidfriendly #healthysnack is sure to become a #familyfavorite and we can't wait to try different seasoning variations.
Other snacks that we have prepped and will be taking on our trip are apples, bananas, grapes, whole wheat crackers, low-fat cheese, and our "guilty pleasure", low-sodium Gardettos.
We also decided to get a large 24 pack of bottled water to take with us. Not only will we have the water to drink on the road, but we will also be able to pack some into the hotel room with us. This way we can enjoy hydration without paying $2.00+ for the bottled water in the room :-)
What kind of snacks do you like to take on road trips?
Check back later for the first #GidgetHitsTheRoad travel blog/vlogs for our first journey as husband and wife!
Bye for now!
#GidgetApproved - Baked Chickpeas with Ranch Seasoning:
Tools: baking sheet, parchment paper, clean kitchen towel, collander
Ingredients: 1 -15 ozOrganic chicpeas, drained and well rinsed (optional: remove outer skin casings)
Extra Virgin Olive Oil (appx 1 Tbs)
Kosher Salt or Sea salt (optional, about 1 tsp)
Ranch Seasoning: 1/2 tsp ground thyme, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp dill weed, 1/2 tsp ground black pepper, 1 tsp onion powder (I made my batch without because I was out of this ingredient and it was still phenomenal)
Directions:
Pre-heat oven to 450 degrees. Pour the chickpeas into the strainer over the sink, rinse with cool water until thoroughly rinsed. (At this point you can remove the outer skins but you do not have to). Lay out the chickpeas on a clean kitchen towel, cover, and let "dry" for about 20-25 minutes.
Meanwhile, mix together your "Ranch Seasoning"
Remove chick peas from kitchen towel into a small mixing bowl. Drizzle with 1 Tbs. olive oil and sprinkle with salt (optional).
Cover a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread out the chickpeas onto the parchment paper into a single layer. Bake at 450 for 25-30 minutes or until crispy.
Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle seasoning over chickpeas to coat while hot. Let cool and serve.
Store at room temperature in an air-tight container.
Original Ranch Seasoning Recipe: https://pulses.org/nap/pulse-tips/roasted-chickpeas-5-ways/
Wednesday, January 24, 2018
Reading Wednesday with SG - Bookmark Says What?!
Hello there! Today was probably the MOST unproductive day at work I have had so far this week.
Today is Wednesday and you know that means? An update on where I am at with my reading challenge! Here is today's short video about the #Unbroken challenge and you will not believe what happened! (** Okay, you caught me; I am not going into too much detail because I don't like #spoilers). You just HAVE to read this book! #GidgetApproved
After an appointment I met my mom for lunch and we had an amazing time. It felt so good just to have a ladies lunch! I forget sometimes how taking the time out of crazy schedule can be so important. What did I eat? Yes, you caught me. I did not stay #healthy, although I DID have avocado on my half of the sandwich we split, so that HASS to count for something, right? (Hass! haha get it?) okay enough punny jokes :-)
I finished my shift at work, then came home to update you peeps on how #notontrack I am with the #PopSugarReadingChallenge2018
I cannot wait for our travel adventure this weekend! It will be our first trip as husband and wife and I just hope we don't kill each other along the way (remind me to tell you about our first road trip - we literally almost broke up after that!)
So what comes next? Well, I will tell you. #Organization #HeatlhyEating #CleanEating
I have already said earlier that I sometimes forget how important it is for you to take time away from busy schedules to do things that make you happy, and I mean truly happy. Keep following me on my journey to a healthier and better lifestyle. I am not just talking about diet and exercise either. Okay okay, you may be wondering what besides diet and exercise can effect ones health? Did you know that organization, clutter, time for oneself, interaction with loved ones, time with significant others, all can effect our well being? I know from experience how mess and clutter can make a person unhappy, even if one does not realize how much their surroundings effect their mental health. Did you know that disorganization can create subconscious stress, make one irritable, lethargic, unmotivated? (PSA I am not a doctor, I am coming at this from personal experience on what I have noticed after living on my own before living with my husband, and even after).
Not only am I going to tackle new recipes for healthier menu choices, share my hobby journey, but I am also going to explore a world of organization and home improvement. Lifestyle is important, might as well work towards it all, am I right? (By the way, my husband laughed really hard when I said I was going to start organizing... My mental response was #challengeaccepted :-) )
Thank you for all of your love and support! Keep following this #Gidget on my journey to a healthier life. Anything you want or would like to see? Just let me know! Don't forget to like and subscribe to my YouTube Channel, follow me on Twitter @scrappygidget and Instagram @scrappygidget
Bye for now!
Today is Wednesday and you know that means? An update on where I am at with my reading challenge! Here is today's short video about the #Unbroken challenge and you will not believe what happened! (** Okay, you caught me; I am not going into too much detail because I don't like #spoilers). You just HAVE to read this book! #GidgetApproved
After an appointment I met my mom for lunch and we had an amazing time. It felt so good just to have a ladies lunch! I forget sometimes how taking the time out of crazy schedule can be so important. What did I eat? Yes, you caught me. I did not stay #healthy, although I DID have avocado on my half of the sandwich we split, so that HASS to count for something, right? (Hass! haha get it?) okay enough punny jokes :-)
I finished my shift at work, then came home to update you peeps on how #notontrack I am with the #PopSugarReadingChallenge2018
I cannot wait for our travel adventure this weekend! It will be our first trip as husband and wife and I just hope we don't kill each other along the way (remind me to tell you about our first road trip - we literally almost broke up after that!)
So what comes next? Well, I will tell you. #Organization #HeatlhyEating #CleanEating
I have already said earlier that I sometimes forget how important it is for you to take time away from busy schedules to do things that make you happy, and I mean truly happy. Keep following me on my journey to a healthier and better lifestyle. I am not just talking about diet and exercise either. Okay okay, you may be wondering what besides diet and exercise can effect ones health? Did you know that organization, clutter, time for oneself, interaction with loved ones, time with significant others, all can effect our well being? I know from experience how mess and clutter can make a person unhappy, even if one does not realize how much their surroundings effect their mental health. Did you know that disorganization can create subconscious stress, make one irritable, lethargic, unmotivated? (PSA I am not a doctor, I am coming at this from personal experience on what I have noticed after living on my own before living with my husband, and even after).
Not only am I going to tackle new recipes for healthier menu choices, share my hobby journey, but I am also going to explore a world of organization and home improvement. Lifestyle is important, might as well work towards it all, am I right? (By the way, my husband laughed really hard when I said I was going to start organizing... My mental response was #challengeaccepted :-) )
Thank you for all of your love and support! Keep following this #Gidget on my journey to a healthier life. Anything you want or would like to see? Just let me know! Don't forget to like and subscribe to my YouTube Channel, follow me on Twitter @scrappygidget and Instagram @scrappygidget
Bye for now!
Coming Soon:
#nextbigproject #organizethis #craftinghoarder
#wegotthis #ScrappyGidgetGetsOrganized
#organization #lifestyle #improvement
Tuesday, January 23, 2018
Happy Mail Swap Reveal with SG
So it is Tuesday! Work was crazy today but there is a light at the end of the tunnel, so hopefully all things there will end on a good note and in a good place before our mini getaway!
I was planning on trying a #BakedChickpea recipe today in preparation of finding a healthy snack for the road trip, but alas, I do not have any chickpeas! THAT is problematic. So I decided to instead share my recent #swap happy mail. I hope that it shows you a brief glimpse into the fun world of being part of a craft group! You make so many friends and connections. I know that I have made several life friends.
I made #GreekMarinatedChicken for dinner today; this actually comes from a recipe I found on Pinterest. You can find the original recipe below! The original called to make it as skewers; but when I first attempted this recipe, I didn't have a grill OR skewers, so, I improvised.
I still cut the chicken into 1/2 - 1" bite size pieces and followed the marinade. I left out the 1tsp of salt to reduce the salt.
**DID YOU KNOW: You can use fresh lemon juice to add the salt flavor to the dish while keeping the sodium out? Check out this "About the Buzz: Use Lemon Instead of Salt" article! I have tried this #trick in several recipes, not only does it work, but it also adds an extra bit of freshness to the dish!**
Another difference is that I add the lemon into the marinade and add 2 Tbs to the 2 Tbs olive oil mixture to be incorporated after the chicken is cooking. You can also use the 2Tbs of oil in the marinade and omit the oil in the pan. I have found that a lot of times there is enough moisture from the marinade, squeezing a fresh lemon over the chicken during cooking process is sufficient (do NOT use this method over an open grill; again, this is my process for stove top cooking :-) ). I have to tell you that even my picky husband LOVES this recipe. It for sure is a #familyfavorite. Whether you are loading sticks up with a bunch of veggies, or sauteing it directly on the stove top, this recipe has an amazing punch of flavor. Not only that but the ingredients are all #clean #lean and #PCOS friendly! You can pair with the recommended vegetable combination (onions and peppers) from the original recipe, or simply pair with your own choice of healthy sides that your family enjoys.
I am also excited to announce that soon there will be more versatility in the postings, so stay tuned and be ready for more exciting adventures with this Gidget! For now, tomorrow will be a #ReadingWednesday update with my progress in #Unbroken.
Thanks for all the love and support! Don't forget to like, subscribe, follow, and share my posts and YouTube Channel with your friends and family! "See you" all tomorrow!
ORIGINAL RECIPE: Marinated Greek Chicken Skewers
#GidgetTested #GidgetApproved
I was planning on trying a #BakedChickpea recipe today in preparation of finding a healthy snack for the road trip, but alas, I do not have any chickpeas! THAT is problematic. So I decided to instead share my recent #swap happy mail. I hope that it shows you a brief glimpse into the fun world of being part of a craft group! You make so many friends and connections. I know that I have made several life friends.
I made #GreekMarinatedChicken for dinner today; this actually comes from a recipe I found on Pinterest. You can find the original recipe below! The original called to make it as skewers; but when I first attempted this recipe, I didn't have a grill OR skewers, so, I improvised.
I still cut the chicken into 1/2 - 1" bite size pieces and followed the marinade. I left out the 1tsp of salt to reduce the salt.
**DID YOU KNOW: You can use fresh lemon juice to add the salt flavor to the dish while keeping the sodium out? Check out this "About the Buzz: Use Lemon Instead of Salt" article! I have tried this #trick in several recipes, not only does it work, but it also adds an extra bit of freshness to the dish!**
Another difference is that I add the lemon into the marinade and add 2 Tbs to the 2 Tbs olive oil mixture to be incorporated after the chicken is cooking. You can also use the 2Tbs of oil in the marinade and omit the oil in the pan. I have found that a lot of times there is enough moisture from the marinade, squeezing a fresh lemon over the chicken during cooking process is sufficient (do NOT use this method over an open grill; again, this is my process for stove top cooking :-) ). I have to tell you that even my picky husband LOVES this recipe. It for sure is a #familyfavorite. Whether you are loading sticks up with a bunch of veggies, or sauteing it directly on the stove top, this recipe has an amazing punch of flavor. Not only that but the ingredients are all #clean #lean and #PCOS friendly! You can pair with the recommended vegetable combination (onions and peppers) from the original recipe, or simply pair with your own choice of healthy sides that your family enjoys.
I am also excited to announce that soon there will be more versatility in the postings, so stay tuned and be ready for more exciting adventures with this Gidget! For now, tomorrow will be a #ReadingWednesday update with my progress in #Unbroken.
Thanks for all the love and support! Don't forget to like, subscribe, follow, and share my posts and YouTube Channel with your friends and family! "See you" all tomorrow!
ORIGINAL RECIPE: Marinated Greek Chicken Skewers
#GidgetTested #GidgetApproved
Monday, January 22, 2018
Cujo For Bujo! Second January Update 2018!
Hey everyone! Today was a terrible day at work for me. #CaseOfTheMondays for sure! Luckily towards the end of the day a good friend of mine reached out to me about one of the rough projects I am working on, offering a glimmer of hope in a dark day.
I went to the grocery store, the post office to drop off my #ValentinePocketLetter swap, then home again home again, jiggety-jig. I had made several updates to the #bulletjournal yesterday, so I ran through a quick flip through for you, showing the changes that I made! Check it out below:
Also, shout out and thank you to my cousin Sarah who sent me an inspirational layout, but I will share that with you next week's #CujoforBujo session!
The rest of tonight my hubby and I are going to be watching Martin Scorcese's "Snowman", based on the Jo Nesbø novel. I read that last year as part of the #PopSugarReadingChallenge2017 - the book was absolutely INCREDIBLE! I was surprised to hear the negative reviews on the movie. Although, after finishing the book, there was so much depth and character development put into the antagonistic murderer that I will not be surprised if they weren't able to capture that in the movie.
We shall see! Thanks for the love and support! Keep following for more fun videos! Coming this week: Happy Mail reveal, Reading Wednesday Update, Thoughtful Thursday (I will be putting my #FlashbackFriday here as I will be on the road Friday), the Family Friends Friday will be the start of our traveling adventure! Don't forget to share with friends you may think would enjoy my postings.
Lots of love and many blessings! Have a happy week!
I went to the grocery store, the post office to drop off my #ValentinePocketLetter swap, then home again home again, jiggety-jig. I had made several updates to the #bulletjournal yesterday, so I ran through a quick flip through for you, showing the changes that I made! Check it out below:
Also, shout out and thank you to my cousin Sarah who sent me an inspirational layout, but I will share that with you next week's #CujoforBujo session!
The rest of tonight my hubby and I are going to be watching Martin Scorcese's "Snowman", based on the Jo Nesbø novel. I read that last year as part of the #PopSugarReadingChallenge2017 - the book was absolutely INCREDIBLE! I was surprised to hear the negative reviews on the movie. Although, after finishing the book, there was so much depth and character development put into the antagonistic murderer that I will not be surprised if they weren't able to capture that in the movie.
We shall see! Thanks for the love and support! Keep following for more fun videos! Coming this week: Happy Mail reveal, Reading Wednesday Update, Thoughtful Thursday (I will be putting my #FlashbackFriday here as I will be on the road Friday), the Family Friends Friday will be the start of our traveling adventure! Don't forget to share with friends you may think would enjoy my postings.
Lots of love and many blessings! Have a happy week!
Sunday, January 21, 2018
Getting Crafty in the Kitchen - Sunday Simple Roast with SG
Hey there! It was a BEYOND lazy Sunday today; woke up not feeling 100%, so I am sorry in advance for my voice in the video. I couldn't sleep after 8, so I read #Unbroken and then played some #Skyrim. I prepped dinner in the crock pot; this is a family favorite. I also am sorry that the measurements are a close estimate because it is "to taste".
We use the #AllRecipes "Dry Onion Soup Mix" but we use celery salt rather than celery seeds, and instead of the bouillon cubes we used about 12 oz of low sodium chicken broth. (You can use beef broth, but I only had chicken broth in the pantry).
We paired the beef roast with #FoodWishes "Syracuse Salt Potatoes" . It was a new recipe that we had wanted to try. In his connected blog, it gave the substitute measurements for regular table salt if you do not have Kosher salt. I was nervous so I actually even went with 1/3 c. rather than the 1/2c. the recipe called for. THEY WERE DELICIOUS!
The rest of the evening will consist of some #BulletJournal updates and reading #Unbroken before bed. Counting down the days this week, because Friday my husband and I are going on a mini-get-away!
Have a blessed week everyone!
Scrappy Gidget's Crock Pot Roast Beef
Ingredients:
1 5lb beef roast 1 pkg Dry Onion Soup mix (or Homemade Dry Onion Soup Mix)
4 Tbs. minced garlic 2-4 c. low-sodium broth (beef, chicken, or vegetable, your pref)
3-4 garlic cloves 1 large carrot, peeled and diced
1 celery stalk, cut into 1" pieces 1 medium onion, quartered
dry red wine (appx 2 cups)
salt to taste
Directions:
Prepare the crock pot with liner (optional). Line bottom of crock pot with the cut vegetables. Take the 4 Tbs of minced garlic and rub all over the roast. Take the dry onion soup mix and rub evenly around the entire roast, then place roast in the crock pot. Pour 2 cups of broth and 2 cups of dry red wine into crock pot. Cover and cook on low 4-6 hours. Check about half way through cooking and add more liquid, as needed (I ended up adding about 7-8 oz more broth and another 1/2c - 1 c dry red wine).
Optional Gravy: Use a ladle or small measuring cup to scoop about 2 cups of the crock pot liquid out and set aside. In a small sauce pan, heat up 2 Tbs. of butter to melt. Add 2-4 Tbs. corn starch, whisking until incorporated. Slowly add the broth, whisking constantly. Add the broth a little at a time until it is the consistency to your preference.
We use the #AllRecipes "Dry Onion Soup Mix" but we use celery salt rather than celery seeds, and instead of the bouillon cubes we used about 12 oz of low sodium chicken broth. (You can use beef broth, but I only had chicken broth in the pantry).
We paired the beef roast with #FoodWishes "Syracuse Salt Potatoes" . It was a new recipe that we had wanted to try. In his connected blog, it gave the substitute measurements for regular table salt if you do not have Kosher salt. I was nervous so I actually even went with 1/3 c. rather than the 1/2c. the recipe called for. THEY WERE DELICIOUS!
The rest of the evening will consist of some #BulletJournal updates and reading #Unbroken before bed. Counting down the days this week, because Friday my husband and I are going on a mini-get-away!
Have a blessed week everyone!
Scrappy Gidget's Crock Pot Roast Beef
Ingredients:
1 5lb beef roast 1 pkg Dry Onion Soup mix (or Homemade Dry Onion Soup Mix)
4 Tbs. minced garlic 2-4 c. low-sodium broth (beef, chicken, or vegetable, your pref)
3-4 garlic cloves 1 large carrot, peeled and diced
1 celery stalk, cut into 1" pieces 1 medium onion, quartered
dry red wine (appx 2 cups)
salt to taste
Directions:
Prepare the crock pot with liner (optional). Line bottom of crock pot with the cut vegetables. Take the 4 Tbs of minced garlic and rub all over the roast. Take the dry onion soup mix and rub evenly around the entire roast, then place roast in the crock pot. Pour 2 cups of broth and 2 cups of dry red wine into crock pot. Cover and cook on low 4-6 hours. Check about half way through cooking and add more liquid, as needed (I ended up adding about 7-8 oz more broth and another 1/2c - 1 c dry red wine).
Optional Gravy: Use a ladle or small measuring cup to scoop about 2 cups of the crock pot liquid out and set aside. In a small sauce pan, heat up 2 Tbs. of butter to melt. Add 2-4 Tbs. corn starch, whisking until incorporated. Slowly add the broth, whisking constantly. Add the broth a little at a time until it is the consistency to your preference.
Saturday, January 20, 2018
#Crafturday - What are you doing?
I am sorry that there is not a video, but I am in between crafts. I am going to start a new mini-album soon! I am afraid that I have no motivation to organize my crafting chaos. My husband is so sweet and has let my craft supplies encroach on the public living room quarters... but alas, the time has come where it is getting to me. I can't find anything half the time; I definitely need to figure out a good organization for it all.
Do you have any good ideas? I think I need to go on a Pinterest binge for organization in small spaces.
Today was an amazing day. I woke up and had coffee with my husband and then we drove up to have lunch with my dad and grandfather who has recently been release from the hospital after a 1 month stay. His health has greatly improved and we are all so happy.
Then we drove home and took a nap. Well, my husband took a nap, I tried to sleep but couldn't, and my sister saved the day! She called to see what was up and we talked for an hour and a half about everything, life, food, jobs, etc. I was able to go and take a small 20 minute nap before waking up and reading more of #Unbroken. I can't believe everything that is happening!!! Not even half way (just started chapter fourteen) and he has been through so much already, I can't fathom what may lay ahead in his journey.
For the rest of this evening, I will either start organizing my craft area (pshh yeah, right) or just indulge in some #Skyrim. Not sure, but I do know that I am going to enjoy a snowy Saturday in being lazy. How are you spending your evening?
Do you have any good ideas? I think I need to go on a Pinterest binge for organization in small spaces.
Today was an amazing day. I woke up and had coffee with my husband and then we drove up to have lunch with my dad and grandfather who has recently been release from the hospital after a 1 month stay. His health has greatly improved and we are all so happy.
Then we drove home and took a nap. Well, my husband took a nap, I tried to sleep but couldn't, and my sister saved the day! She called to see what was up and we talked for an hour and a half about everything, life, food, jobs, etc. I was able to go and take a small 20 minute nap before waking up and reading more of #Unbroken. I can't believe everything that is happening!!! Not even half way (just started chapter fourteen) and he has been through so much already, I can't fathom what may lay ahead in his journey.
For the rest of this evening, I will either start organizing my craft area (pshh yeah, right) or just indulge in some #Skyrim. Not sure, but I do know that I am going to enjoy a snowy Saturday in being lazy. How are you spending your evening?
Friday, January 19, 2018
Scrappy Gidget Goes to the Spa
I lOVED today! Mostly because I got to spend two hours with my bestie pampering ourselves as a belated birthday gift for her! (She was super surprised but this Scrappy Gidget doesn't take "no" for an answer!)
We arrived at the spa and were escorted to the tranquil "waiting" area for our pedicurists to come get us; I can't believe how great it is to have a friend that you don't get to see as often as you like, but just pick up where you left off as if no time has passed.
For those of you who don't know, "Gidget" is a mashup between "Girl and Midget" a name from the 1957 Frederick Kohner novel, "Gidget, the Little Girl with Big Ideas" that then transcended into a series of TV shows and movies starring Sandra Dee, Sally Field, and Deborah Walley. It is well fitting for me as I am a short shrimp of a girl with a big heart and huge attitude, when it is needed. :-) The point I am getting at is that I got to struggle into the large spa seat and then my pedicurist had to move the seat forward, as one would a car to reach the pedals, in order to position me where needed. This is the same reason I do not like sitting in tall seats at bars or restaurants; it simply is too much work to get in and out!
We talked and had our pedicures done, caught up on life, different goings ons, before I knew it the pedicure was finished and we went back to the "tranquil" seating room to await phase two of spa day: the manicures.
After a few minutes our manicurists were ready for us so we penguin-waddled in our foam toe-dividers and flat foam flip-flops to the manicure room, where we continued our pampering session and great conversation. When we had finished we checked out and it was time to part ways, but what a great couple of hours it was! It is so important to take time out in your life to pamper yourself and get together with friends or family; any stress leaves you even momentarily and it is such a great escape.
Before arriving home I had to make a pit-stop at the local grocer, grabbing something small for my husband and I to have for lunch. Once home we watched a few episodes of "Parks and Rec" before taking a restful nap (which we thoroughly enjoy doing once in a while).
Then it was time to make dinner; tonight's menu was #homemade #orangechicken with brown rice and green beans. It is a #familyfavorite although we use the Kikkoman Orange Sauce rather than making our own (I have tried a few recipes that combine BBQ and orange marmalade and it just isn't quite the same). Delicious!
Got some reading in as the video was uploading and am about ready to get my #gaming on and play some #Skyrim. But before I do, I wanted to share today's journey and the #FridayFlashback as promised. Check it out below the video! I hope you all have a blessed weekend. Don't forget to always tell those important to you that you love them! Bye for now!
_________________FlashbackFriday - Poland Trip __________________
Day 1 - July 8th, 2016
"Well, it has officially began! So much was put into the preparation for this trip - NOT! I don't know why I always wait until the last minute for everything. Yesterday, Thursday, July 7th I worked late, [my fiance] took me out for dinner since he wouldn't be seeing me off today and gave me some extra little fun money. After dinner with [my fiance] and a hard goodbye (I'm such an emotional person!) I met my mom at Herbergers [department store]... I had seen that they were having a BOGO sale on luggage so I went there to finish my set. I had purchased a small laptop roller carry-on earlier this year for a business trip, so this time I got the slightly larger carry on and the smaller 22" check bag. We shopped around some, I found a super cute planner and am really excited to use it next year for wedding planning!... Finally after a few more shopping stops to Khols for shoes and a bathing suit and Walgreen's for toiletries, we made it back to my apartment to pack. It was nearly 11pm. We made coffee and started going down the checklist, laughing at my delirium and enjoying the preparation for my travels. Finally at 12:45 am, she left, I took a shower, crawled into bed. Morning came VERY early. Dad picked me up to take me to work, as I left my car in the safe confines of my garage - safe from the summer hailstorms! :-) I arrived at work, printed off itinerary information and set that in a folder to give to my parents. Then I had the arduous task of working all day, trying to get our customer workload in a manageable level before leaving. 2:15pm finally came around and I got picked up by dad and we made our way to the airport. [My friend] already beat us there, had checked her luggage, and already had a drink by the time I got up there, too. Her step-dad is a TSA agent and he, my dad, [my friend] and I sat in the [airport] cafeteria before she and I departed through security. I need to remember to not wear these pants! The rhinestones in the back pockets always ping on the 360 machine, so I had to receive a very friendly pat-down. Waiting at the gate, we realized how fortunate we are to get to travel and experience other far away places. First trip for both of us [other than me having been born[in another country]], was Turkey and Greece, before the violence really took over. Last year, she went to Ireland. I didn't go, but hope that someday, [my fiance] and I are able to go visit. Boarded the plane, had a slightly bumpy take off due to winds, but the ride smoothed out once we reached elevation. I fell asleep briefly, [my friend] in the seat next to me reading a book on her kindle. I woke up in time for drink service and enjoyed a complimentary crisp cold ginger ale. I decided to add what may be a somewhat monotonous journal entry for the sake of realness and completeness. The sky from up here is a dusty hue of blues and greys, spotted by playful puffs of clouds. Crazy to think that in a few days we will be standing in the middle of Auschwitz, dreary, dark, and full of horrible twisted memories of humanity lost. Before I break I feel it is necessary to report that before going through security I received a call from my mom; Bopka (great-grandma on my dad's side) isn't doing too well). My brother flew home and he and my sister drove out to visit her. Although it is only through the grape-vine it sounds like she sat everyone down and told them what is what and how she feels. They are, as far as I know, going to start her on hospice care. I don't know what the future holds there, but I am definitely very glad I was able to visit her during the family BBQ at the beginning of the month... Now I watch us descend into islands of clouds as we approach Chicago, with a heavy, but filled heart...
- - - - -- - - - - -- to be continued - - - - - - - -
We arrived at the spa and were escorted to the tranquil "waiting" area for our pedicurists to come get us; I can't believe how great it is to have a friend that you don't get to see as often as you like, but just pick up where you left off as if no time has passed.
For those of you who don't know, "Gidget" is a mashup between "Girl and Midget" a name from the 1957 Frederick Kohner novel, "Gidget, the Little Girl with Big Ideas" that then transcended into a series of TV shows and movies starring Sandra Dee, Sally Field, and Deborah Walley. It is well fitting for me as I am a short shrimp of a girl with a big heart and huge attitude, when it is needed. :-) The point I am getting at is that I got to struggle into the large spa seat and then my pedicurist had to move the seat forward, as one would a car to reach the pedals, in order to position me where needed. This is the same reason I do not like sitting in tall seats at bars or restaurants; it simply is too much work to get in and out!
We talked and had our pedicures done, caught up on life, different goings ons, before I knew it the pedicure was finished and we went back to the "tranquil" seating room to await phase two of spa day: the manicures.
After a few minutes our manicurists were ready for us so we penguin-waddled in our foam toe-dividers and flat foam flip-flops to the manicure room, where we continued our pampering session and great conversation. When we had finished we checked out and it was time to part ways, but what a great couple of hours it was! It is so important to take time out in your life to pamper yourself and get together with friends or family; any stress leaves you even momentarily and it is such a great escape.
Before arriving home I had to make a pit-stop at the local grocer, grabbing something small for my husband and I to have for lunch. Once home we watched a few episodes of "Parks and Rec" before taking a restful nap (which we thoroughly enjoy doing once in a while).
Then it was time to make dinner; tonight's menu was #homemade #orangechicken with brown rice and green beans. It is a #familyfavorite although we use the Kikkoman Orange Sauce rather than making our own (I have tried a few recipes that combine BBQ and orange marmalade and it just isn't quite the same). Delicious!
Got some reading in as the video was uploading and am about ready to get my #gaming on and play some #Skyrim. But before I do, I wanted to share today's journey and the #FridayFlashback as promised. Check it out below the video! I hope you all have a blessed weekend. Don't forget to always tell those important to you that you love them! Bye for now!
_________________FlashbackFriday - Poland Trip __________________
Day 1 - July 8th, 2016
"Well, it has officially began! So much was put into the preparation for this trip - NOT! I don't know why I always wait until the last minute for everything. Yesterday, Thursday, July 7th I worked late, [my fiance] took me out for dinner since he wouldn't be seeing me off today and gave me some extra little fun money. After dinner with [my fiance] and a hard goodbye (I'm such an emotional person!) I met my mom at Herbergers [department store]... I had seen that they were having a BOGO sale on luggage so I went there to finish my set. I had purchased a small laptop roller carry-on earlier this year for a business trip, so this time I got the slightly larger carry on and the smaller 22" check bag. We shopped around some, I found a super cute planner and am really excited to use it next year for wedding planning!... Finally after a few more shopping stops to Khols for shoes and a bathing suit and Walgreen's for toiletries, we made it back to my apartment to pack. It was nearly 11pm. We made coffee and started going down the checklist, laughing at my delirium and enjoying the preparation for my travels. Finally at 12:45 am, she left, I took a shower, crawled into bed. Morning came VERY early. Dad picked me up to take me to work, as I left my car in the safe confines of my garage - safe from the summer hailstorms! :-) I arrived at work, printed off itinerary information and set that in a folder to give to my parents. Then I had the arduous task of working all day, trying to get our customer workload in a manageable level before leaving. 2:15pm finally came around and I got picked up by dad and we made our way to the airport. [My friend] already beat us there, had checked her luggage, and already had a drink by the time I got up there, too. Her step-dad is a TSA agent and he, my dad, [my friend] and I sat in the [airport] cafeteria before she and I departed through security. I need to remember to not wear these pants! The rhinestones in the back pockets always ping on the 360 machine, so I had to receive a very friendly pat-down. Waiting at the gate, we realized how fortunate we are to get to travel and experience other far away places. First trip for both of us [other than me having been born[in another country]], was Turkey and Greece, before the violence really took over. Last year, she went to Ireland. I didn't go, but hope that someday, [my fiance] and I are able to go visit. Boarded the plane, had a slightly bumpy take off due to winds, but the ride smoothed out once we reached elevation. I fell asleep briefly, [my friend] in the seat next to me reading a book on her kindle. I woke up in time for drink service and enjoyed a complimentary crisp cold ginger ale. I decided to add what may be a somewhat monotonous journal entry for the sake of realness and completeness. The sky from up here is a dusty hue of blues and greys, spotted by playful puffs of clouds. Crazy to think that in a few days we will be standing in the middle of Auschwitz, dreary, dark, and full of horrible twisted memories of humanity lost. Before I break I feel it is necessary to report that before going through security I received a call from my mom; Bopka (great-grandma on my dad's side) isn't doing too well). My brother flew home and he and my sister drove out to visit her. Although it is only through the grape-vine it sounds like she sat everyone down and told them what is what and how she feels. They are, as far as I know, going to start her on hospice care. I don't know what the future holds there, but I am definitely very glad I was able to visit her during the family BBQ at the beginning of the month... Now I watch us descend into islands of clouds as we approach Chicago, with a heavy, but filled heart...
- - - - -- - - - - -- to be continued - - - - - - - -
Thursday, January 18, 2018
#IsItEdible - Chickpea Cookie Dough Bites & My PCOS Journey
Hello everyone! Lots to talk about today and again, I am sorry that I do not have a video! I know that I will have a special Family & Friend Friday video for tomorrow!
I still wanted to share a semi-"healthy" recipe that I have tried in the past that is DELICIOUS! These "Chickpea Cookie Dough Bites" are really REALLY tasty! Miss CandiQuik has definitely brought these fun treats a new fan! I tried the recipe a few years ago. One tip is to try (if you can) find pre-shelled chick peas, if possible. I also know that the next time I try this recipe I will make them a little bit smaller because they taste super rich! I highly recommend this as a fun alternative to cookie dough!
Which brings me into my next topic, PCOS. PCOS stands for "Poly-cystic ovarian syndrome". It is fairly common among women of reproductive age. It is called poly-cystic ovarian syndrome because most women grow many small cysts on their ovaries (more than the normal amount). It also is a hormone imbalance which leads to irregular to no menstrual cycles, extra hair growth, weight problems, and more! There is a lot of good information out there now about the symptoms, early detection, treatment, etc. Most of all I think it is important to educate yourself. If you are a woman who thinks you may have this syndrome, talk to your doctor. Usually the only thing that can tell for certain is an ultrasound.
My story with PCOS goes back years when I was in my late teens early twenties. I went to several doctors because I was having issues with my menstrual cycle before I finally found an OB who knew what she was talking about! I was so relieved to finally figure out what I thought was "wrong" with me, but was happy when I found out that it was common. Although it is the leading cause of infertility in women, it made me feel good that there were options and ways for me to take care of myself to address the medical issue. I was originally put on medication "Metformin" because it does take a toll on insulin levels. I am happy to report that after working on diet and exercise, it has improved my health enough to no longer need Metformin!!! This journey is exactly why I am excited to share healthy new recipes that I have tried and "approved" with my #IsItEdible series. I hope that I can provide information and help to anyone going through the challenging journey with PCOS!
I am keeping my food collection log in my #bulletjournal and will be sure to plan ahead in the upcoming weeks so that I can deliver great videos!
Also, I am considering keeping an "ongoing vocabulary" list on this blog... not sure! If you think you would enjoy that, please leave a comment!
I still wanted to share a semi-"healthy" recipe that I have tried in the past that is DELICIOUS! These "Chickpea Cookie Dough Bites" are really REALLY tasty! Miss CandiQuik has definitely brought these fun treats a new fan! I tried the recipe a few years ago. One tip is to try (if you can) find pre-shelled chick peas, if possible. I also know that the next time I try this recipe I will make them a little bit smaller because they taste super rich! I highly recommend this as a fun alternative to cookie dough!
Which brings me into my next topic, PCOS. PCOS stands for "Poly-cystic ovarian syndrome". It is fairly common among women of reproductive age. It is called poly-cystic ovarian syndrome because most women grow many small cysts on their ovaries (more than the normal amount). It also is a hormone imbalance which leads to irregular to no menstrual cycles, extra hair growth, weight problems, and more! There is a lot of good information out there now about the symptoms, early detection, treatment, etc. Most of all I think it is important to educate yourself. If you are a woman who thinks you may have this syndrome, talk to your doctor. Usually the only thing that can tell for certain is an ultrasound.
My story with PCOS goes back years when I was in my late teens early twenties. I went to several doctors because I was having issues with my menstrual cycle before I finally found an OB who knew what she was talking about! I was so relieved to finally figure out what I thought was "wrong" with me, but was happy when I found out that it was common. Although it is the leading cause of infertility in women, it made me feel good that there were options and ways for me to take care of myself to address the medical issue. I was originally put on medication "Metformin" because it does take a toll on insulin levels. I am happy to report that after working on diet and exercise, it has improved my health enough to no longer need Metformin!!! This journey is exactly why I am excited to share healthy new recipes that I have tried and "approved" with my #IsItEdible series. I hope that I can provide information and help to anyone going through the challenging journey with PCOS!
I am keeping my food collection log in my #bulletjournal and will be sure to plan ahead in the upcoming weeks so that I can deliver great videos!
Also, I am considering keeping an "ongoing vocabulary" list on this blog... not sure! If you think you would enjoy that, please leave a comment!
Wednesday, January 17, 2018
Reading Wednesday with SG - Update, Pocket Letter, and WTF Kitchen Gadget Opinion
First, it is the second day that I am home sick. I didn't upload anything yesterday as I ended up sleeping for 17 hours!!! I hope that today is the final day of this crud and I can resume my normal life!
I had hoped to get more progress in with the #Unbroken book, but due to my crazy sleep schedule, I did not get as far as I would have liked. :-(
But today's video will update you on where I have made it and introduces a new addition to my #PopSugarReadingChallenge2018 journey! I also shared a #craft with you for my recent #PockeLetter Swap for #Valentine's day, so I hope you enjoy!
Now, if you made it through the video you will have heard me mention a #SmartPan "kitchen gadget" that I saw on a "5 kitchen Tools You Must Have #01" video by @Tech Punch. I wanted to take a moment to get on a soap box about how ridiculous this "gadget" seems to me!
Cooking should be organic, natural, instinctual experience that brings joy and happy memories to life. The "Smart Pan" tool "syncs" to your smart phone and measures your ingredients, tracks your cook time, and "helps" you cook through a recipe. What has this world come to!? I remember learning to cook and bake with my great-grandmother, my grandma, and my step-dad. One memory I specifically have is making Italian Easter bread and I panicked because my dad wasn't measuring the flour out perfectly for the bread! I was so upset that I actually started to cry! Well, turns out, that cooking is a lot of "eh, a little this, a little that, a dash of this, a pinch of that" and going with your instincts. I began using recipes more as blueprints and guidelines than hard fast rules that one must abide. Today, I hardly use a recipe unless it is something that I haven't tried before. Even with new recipes I usually end up tweaking something here and there to taste or preference. How would I have learned to use these skills, go with instinct, know a rough estimate off the top of my head when chicken should be about cooked through, had I used one of these smart pans!?
It takes the intrinsic beauty out of cooking and you no longer get to feel, taste, smell, experience the art of creation. I for one, definitely do not, and never will, need one of these gadgets!
I had hoped to get more progress in with the #Unbroken book, but due to my crazy sleep schedule, I did not get as far as I would have liked. :-(
But today's video will update you on where I have made it and introduces a new addition to my #PopSugarReadingChallenge2018 journey! I also shared a #craft with you for my recent #PockeLetter Swap for #Valentine's day, so I hope you enjoy!
Now, if you made it through the video you will have heard me mention a #SmartPan "kitchen gadget" that I saw on a "5 kitchen Tools You Must Have #01" video by @Tech Punch. I wanted to take a moment to get on a soap box about how ridiculous this "gadget" seems to me!
Cooking should be organic, natural, instinctual experience that brings joy and happy memories to life. The "Smart Pan" tool "syncs" to your smart phone and measures your ingredients, tracks your cook time, and "helps" you cook through a recipe. What has this world come to!? I remember learning to cook and bake with my great-grandmother, my grandma, and my step-dad. One memory I specifically have is making Italian Easter bread and I panicked because my dad wasn't measuring the flour out perfectly for the bread! I was so upset that I actually started to cry! Well, turns out, that cooking is a lot of "eh, a little this, a little that, a dash of this, a pinch of that" and going with your instincts. I began using recipes more as blueprints and guidelines than hard fast rules that one must abide. Today, I hardly use a recipe unless it is something that I haven't tried before. Even with new recipes I usually end up tweaking something here and there to taste or preference. How would I have learned to use these skills, go with instinct, know a rough estimate off the top of my head when chicken should be about cooked through, had I used one of these smart pans!?
It takes the intrinsic beauty out of cooking and you no longer get to feel, taste, smell, experience the art of creation. I for one, definitely do not, and never will, need one of these gadgets!
Monday, January 15, 2018
Cujo for Bujo! First January Update 2018
Well, it is Monday, the start of a new week. It was (you guessed it) FREEZING today! The roads were covered in ice first thing this morning. It currently is 3 degrees but feels like -19! Guess what that means? Yep, you guessed it! Hot tea reading time later this evening!
Mondays do not have to be mundane, although I find that they seem to always bring me down a little. I don't know if the anxious downtrodden feeling I get is due to the start of a new work week, but I do not like Mondays. I am hoping that scheduling the weekly #CujoBujo updates will give me something to look forward to, so we shall see where that goes!
Next week my husband and I will be traveling to go see a concert for his favorite rock band and I cannot wait for the welcomed break! It is about a 6 hour drive but given the weather recently I am hoping that is all it takes! We also will be meeting up with some friends while we are in their area, so the trip sounds highly rewarding already!
The rest of the evening for me looks like finishing a "Dark Files" episode about Camp Hero in Long Island, making lemon pepper or garlic parm chicken dinner, journaling, and reading! What are you doing on your Monday night?
Don't worry, I didn't forget about the #bulletjournal update :-)
I am happy to report that, for the most part, I have been successfully using my #bulletjournal!
I ended up making some adjustments to a few pages and have improvement ideas readied for next month. Check out the progress on my YouTube Channel Scrappy Gidget Homemade below!
Credit to @Kara on Instagram @oak.tree.journaling for sharing her beautiful #bulletjournal layout!
Mondays do not have to be mundane, although I find that they seem to always bring me down a little. I don't know if the anxious downtrodden feeling I get is due to the start of a new work week, but I do not like Mondays. I am hoping that scheduling the weekly #CujoBujo updates will give me something to look forward to, so we shall see where that goes!
Next week my husband and I will be traveling to go see a concert for his favorite rock band and I cannot wait for the welcomed break! It is about a 6 hour drive but given the weather recently I am hoping that is all it takes! We also will be meeting up with some friends while we are in their area, so the trip sounds highly rewarding already!
The rest of the evening for me looks like finishing a "Dark Files" episode about Camp Hero in Long Island, making lemon pepper or garlic parm chicken dinner, journaling, and reading! What are you doing on your Monday night?
Don't worry, I didn't forget about the #bulletjournal update :-)
I am happy to report that, for the most part, I have been successfully using my #bulletjournal!
I ended up making some adjustments to a few pages and have improvement ideas readied for next month. Check out the progress on my YouTube Channel Scrappy Gidget Homemade below!
Credit to @Kara on Instagram @oak.tree.journaling for sharing her beautiful #bulletjournal layout!
Sunday, January 14, 2018
Sunday Funday - Homemade Fajitas and a Look Ahead
Hello!
Today was it not only FREEZING again, but it snowed a lot more than we expected! I put a roast in the crock pot for dinner then whipped up some of my homemade fajitas for lunch. The recipe is a concoction I developed after trying several different recipes and always finding something I didn't like. I can promise that you will love this recipe, too! Maybe it will become a family favorite for your family, as well! (Scroll down to bottom of post for recipe).
The snow came down so much today! Besides having to drive in it for a short stint, I was happy that it snowed. I love the snow, it is always so beautiful!
Week ahead: I am hoping to continue with the daily postings, tomorrow will be a look into the progress of my bullet journal in a second #CujoForBujo video, so keep an eye open for it!
Wednesday will be #ReadingWednesday #PopSugarReadingChallenge2018 update and the rest, well, I will be as surprised as you! Don't forget to follow me on Twitter with the handle @ScrappyGidget for daily updates and news! Hope you guys had a great Sunday with you friends, family, and loved ones. How about those game upsets, huh?!
Bye for now!
https://youtu.be/0ajrjhkKJ0s
RECIPE: Hayley's Homemade Fajita Rub (Makes 2-4 servings)
Ingredients:
2 Tbs Cornstarch 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
4 tsp Chili Powder Flour or Corn Tortillas (taco size)
1 tsp salt Toppings of your choice (e.g. lettuce, tomato
2 tsp Paprika shredded cheese, Avocado, onion, etc.)
1 tsp White Sugar
2 tsp Onion Powder
2 tsp Garlic Powder
1/2 tsp Ground Cumin
1/4 - 1/2 tsp Cayenne Pepper (optional, to taste)
Vegetable (or olive oil)
Directions:
Mix all the dry ingredients in a medium mixing bowl until well incorporated. On a cutting board, butterfly the chicken breasts in half length wise and sprinkle with a little salt (no more than 1tsp, optional). Cut each cutlet into 1/4-1/2 inch strips.
In a medium skillet, heat 2-4Tbs of oil over medium-high heat. Put all of the chicken strips in the medium bowl with the dry rub, tossing until evenly and well coated. Carefully add the seasoned chicken to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, until you can see the chicken starting to turn white. Use tongs to flip the chicken over to cook on the other side. Continue cooking the chicken for 10-15 minutes or until fully cooked through.
While the chicken is cooking you can prep your toppings for your fajitas.
Once the chicken is cooked through, turn the heat to high heat for a couple minutes, turning constantly, in order to get a crunchy exterior. Serve immediately in tortillas. Top with choice of toppings, and enjoy!
Today was it not only FREEZING again, but it snowed a lot more than we expected! I put a roast in the crock pot for dinner then whipped up some of my homemade fajitas for lunch. The recipe is a concoction I developed after trying several different recipes and always finding something I didn't like. I can promise that you will love this recipe, too! Maybe it will become a family favorite for your family, as well! (Scroll down to bottom of post for recipe).
The snow came down so much today! Besides having to drive in it for a short stint, I was happy that it snowed. I love the snow, it is always so beautiful!
Week ahead: I am hoping to continue with the daily postings, tomorrow will be a look into the progress of my bullet journal in a second #CujoForBujo video, so keep an eye open for it!
Wednesday will be #ReadingWednesday #PopSugarReadingChallenge2018 update and the rest, well, I will be as surprised as you! Don't forget to follow me on Twitter with the handle @ScrappyGidget for daily updates and news! Hope you guys had a great Sunday with you friends, family, and loved ones. How about those game upsets, huh?!
Bye for now!
https://youtu.be/0ajrjhkKJ0s
RECIPE: Hayley's Homemade Fajita Rub (Makes 2-4 servings)
Ingredients:
2 Tbs Cornstarch 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
4 tsp Chili Powder Flour or Corn Tortillas (taco size)
1 tsp salt Toppings of your choice (e.g. lettuce, tomato
2 tsp Paprika shredded cheese, Avocado, onion, etc.)
1 tsp White Sugar
2 tsp Onion Powder
2 tsp Garlic Powder
1/2 tsp Ground Cumin
1/4 - 1/2 tsp Cayenne Pepper (optional, to taste)
Vegetable (or olive oil)
Directions:
Mix all the dry ingredients in a medium mixing bowl until well incorporated. On a cutting board, butterfly the chicken breasts in half length wise and sprinkle with a little salt (no more than 1tsp, optional). Cut each cutlet into 1/4-1/2 inch strips.
In a medium skillet, heat 2-4Tbs of oil over medium-high heat. Put all of the chicken strips in the medium bowl with the dry rub, tossing until evenly and well coated. Carefully add the seasoned chicken to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, until you can see the chicken starting to turn white. Use tongs to flip the chicken over to cook on the other side. Continue cooking the chicken for 10-15 minutes or until fully cooked through.
While the chicken is cooking you can prep your toppings for your fajitas.
Once the chicken is cooked through, turn the heat to high heat for a couple minutes, turning constantly, in order to get a crunchy exterior. Serve immediately in tortillas. Top with choice of toppings, and enjoy!
Saturday, January 13, 2018
#Crafturday - Saturday Life and a little Crafting with #ScrappyGidget
Today was a really great day! My husband I got to sleep WAYYY in (which is a rarity). We casually rolled out of bed to get ready to go to our niece's surprise birthday party at a local indoor water park. She was so surprised and had no idea! Her mom and dad did a great job at orchestrating the event. We didn't go swimming, this time, but got to see her smiling and having a blast with her friends! I got to hold our newest nephew (just born in October!) and discovered that he loves the song 'Bring back my bonnie to me!" he was so cute, just smiling away :-)
After the party we went to lunch out I enjoyed an AMAZING burger (yes okay I get it, not on the new year plan, but hey, when you get date time with husband bear, you enjoy yourself whatever your heart desires!) It was phenomenal.
I came home and got my 30 minutes of reading in before taking a small cat nap. Does anyone else have such vivid dreams that you don't even feel as though you have slept!? My brain was going a million miles a minute and I tried to tune everything out but all that ended up happening was a transition to a dream-state where my thoughts were my dreams. Even though it was a busy nap, I still felt energized.
When it is a slow Saturday you have to take advantage of the fact that no one else is doing laundry at the apartment complex, so THAT happened.
I got organized and prepped all my #crafts for #crafturday and made a short video to keep you all posted on what is going on for my 2018 crafts! You can watch it here:
https://youtu.be/mMMpITQrxp8
I joined the #PocketLetterPals group a couple years ago and was so thankful that I did. It truly is a way to meet new people with the same interests as you and allows you a creative way to get to know people. I have actually made several friends through swaps and interacting on the Facebook group page that I feel will be friends for a very long time!
The rest of my night will consist of working on crafts, while possibly finding some time to get some #Skyrim play in on the 360. Yes, that is right folks, I am a woman of many talents, including crafting and gaming in one sitting. They don't call me #ScrappyGidget for nothing!
Check in tomorrow with Sunday's update! Please remember to follow me on Twitter @ScrappyGidget and Like/Subscribe to my YouTube channel! I promise you will certainly be entertained! Lots of love!
DECEMBER DAILY LINK: https://aliedwards.com/projects/december-daily
What are Pocket Letters? Find out here : https://pocketletters.com/
After the party we went to lunch out I enjoyed an AMAZING burger (yes okay I get it, not on the new year plan, but hey, when you get date time with husband bear, you enjoy yourself whatever your heart desires!) It was phenomenal.
I came home and got my 30 minutes of reading in before taking a small cat nap. Does anyone else have such vivid dreams that you don't even feel as though you have slept!? My brain was going a million miles a minute and I tried to tune everything out but all that ended up happening was a transition to a dream-state where my thoughts were my dreams. Even though it was a busy nap, I still felt energized.
When it is a slow Saturday you have to take advantage of the fact that no one else is doing laundry at the apartment complex, so THAT happened.
I got organized and prepped all my #crafts for #crafturday and made a short video to keep you all posted on what is going on for my 2018 crafts! You can watch it here:
https://youtu.be/mMMpITQrxp8
I joined the #PocketLetterPals group a couple years ago and was so thankful that I did. It truly is a way to meet new people with the same interests as you and allows you a creative way to get to know people. I have actually made several friends through swaps and interacting on the Facebook group page that I feel will be friends for a very long time!
The rest of my night will consist of working on crafts, while possibly finding some time to get some #Skyrim play in on the 360. Yes, that is right folks, I am a woman of many talents, including crafting and gaming in one sitting. They don't call me #ScrappyGidget for nothing!
Check in tomorrow with Sunday's update! Please remember to follow me on Twitter @ScrappyGidget and Like/Subscribe to my YouTube channel! I promise you will certainly be entertained! Lots of love!
DECEMBER DAILY LINK: https://aliedwards.com/projects/december-daily
What are Pocket Letters? Find out here : https://pocketletters.com/
Friday, January 12, 2018
Family & Friends Friday - A Flashback and Reflection with SG
Fridays are meant for Friends & Family
Friends and Family Friday is the day I will highlight a craft, project, outing, fun food idea, anything that is something to do with friends or family!
I was not prepared this week and to be honest, my craft space is a disaster area! I have a couple swaps that I am working on, so I wasn't able to give you anything new. I decided to do a combo blog today, both a reflection piece.
The first is a flashback from a few years back. The second is a reflection on my trip to Poland this last summer with a Holocaust survivor, Eva Mozes Kor.
Flashback:
Reflection of Poland:Day 1
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Reflection of Poland:Day 1
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My grandmother taught me to sew, make quilts, and love the hobby. I got into scrap-booking about 12 years ago and drew a ton of inspiration from YouTube videos and how-tos. Two of my favorite were Laura with Following the Paper Trail and Kathy with Paper Phenomenon. I got really into the paper bag album hype and made several. I have to admit that this one was and still is a favorite. I used a variety of methods and explain most in the video. I do not remember what paper line I used, but I hope that you enjoy the creation and pull some inspiration to create your own vintage heirloom album!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YJmEvm4v968&t=469s
I kept a journal of my experiences, thoughts, feelings, and traveling while I went on the most incredible journey of a lifetime. I was blessed to have an opportunity to join Eva Mozes Kor, a Holocaust Survivor, Mengele Twin, and forgiveness advocate on a visit to Krakow, Poland and Auschwitz. She told of her experiences, horrors, devastation, and to hear of her life journey to a place of strength and forgiveness. The journal takes up nearly half a book, so this reflection will be best in stages. I warn readers, some is hard to hear. The atrocities and horrors that occurred in Auschwitz and all around Europe during the war are terrible memories and lessons in history we must never forget. Reader discretion is advised.
Day 1: June 30, 2016
The purpose of this journal is to document, record, and preserve what I imagine to be one of the most meaningful experiences I'll have in my life. I am going to Krakow, Poland on a trip with Holocaust survivor Eva Kor. We have a full scheduled trip planned through CANDLES museum and I hope I'll be able to reflect upon my journey and document the journey here [in my journal]. We leave one week from today . . . We will leave for Chicago on July 8, then meet the group in Chicago O'Hare on July 9 to depart for Poland. We will spend an entire week there learning the history of Krakow and also bearing witness first hand the testimony of Eva and her experiences as a victim, a prisoner, a girl, a survivor. I would be foolish to say that the content of this journal will not approach a level of deep emotion and horrors as I document my experiences, but I know that I will cherish these memories and hope to impart a legacy to those who read it of tolerance, acceptance, strength, and the tenacity to always strive to do what is right, even if the whole world is against you.
I decided to begin my entry a little earlier as there is some background and historical events occurring in their own right which I feel may impact the trip, our experiences, and the environment in which we are about to be exposed.
On June 28, 2016, three attackers arrived in a taxi to Istanbul, Turkey international airport, opening fire, before killing themselves via suicide bombing. The attack left 41 dead and over 230 hurt (these numbers may change but are accurate as of the journal entry). This heinous crime is being claimed to have been organized by [an extreme radical group] and their attacks around the world continue. They have targeted several airports, which leaves [my friend] and I a little nervous, to say the least. Additionally, UK/GB has left the European Union. Although on the surface there may seem to be nothing wrong, what I fear is the aftermath such a political and economic move can create. Anit-Semitism has been on the rise in the last several years and, to me, the political enviornment in the world right now is scary, mirroring a lot of the same (or similar)chain of events [that] occurred, leading up and into WWII. We know if they [*meaning the tour group*] it would be unsafe they would cancel or postpone the trip, but so far, all things are a go. My Faith will keep me strong, and I know there are limited opportunities for such experiences. I just pray for a safe and humbling journey.
-------------------- END DAY 1: POLAND EXPERIENCE UNFOLDED -----------------------
Keep checking in each Friday for the next part of the journey....
Thursday, January 11, 2018
It's FREEZING outside! Time to BAKE! Brownies with beans?! Kitchen Things with SG
First and foremost credit for this unique and odd recipe goes out to @ChocolateCoveredKatie and her healthy dessert blog! Black beans in a brownie?! Now, I know what you are thinking "ewww gross!" but wait! The beautiful miss @NikkiLimo gave me the courage and convincing I needed to try this recipe. You can see her original Tasty Tuesday video featuring this crazy creation here.
Now, sure, everyone has different taste buds. Its possible that the people who enjoyed this recipe actually like black beans by themselves, so they may not dislike the brownies because it isn't a taste they normally dislike. So I HAD to try it. If you follow my Facebook page "Scrappy Gidget Homemade" or have seen my YouTube videos, you know that 2018 is the start of a lot of things for me. One of the most important is my husband and I's health. We want to eat right and for him, even though he can be a picky eater, he can also eat the same thing over and over again and it works for him. Me? NO WAY! I can't even if I try. I get bored and eventually end up just not liking the food. It is true that too much of something isn't always a good thing. Therefore, I am stuck with the conundrum of finding healthy new recipes to try, within the constraints of our medical needs, while also trying to convince my love that brussel sprouts really can taste good (well, you get my point).
There are some key things that I should mention. I followed the recipe *almost* to a T. The recipe called for "quick oats" and Katie made a point in mentioning in her blog that she has always made the recipe as is, never having substituted quick oats for something like rolled oats, almond flour, etc. Well, this Gidget only had Rolled Oats and Almond Flour in her pantry. So I took a chance and went with the rolled oats (I mean they were probably closer to the quick oats than the almond flour, right?) So that was one difference. The next "variation" I made came along when I realized that I had previously ate most of the dark chocolate chips that I had on hand with some raspberries as a snack, so I only had maybe 1/8 cup. So I had to improvise with what I had. Yep... I did it. I sacrificed the full size Hershey Milk Chocolate bar I had and chopped it to bits. I used that in an attempt to replace the chips and it seemed to work okay (although I want to try again with all of the original ingredients).
*** THE RESULTS *** SPOILER ALERT!!! ****
First, I have to say it was a big confidence booster when my husband came home and said "Ooooh! Are you making brownies!?" So a) yes they smell (and look) like brownies.
The instructions on the original recipe say to let them cool for a long time or over night, which Niki also mentions in the video she doesn't know how much is enough time. I used my PamperedChef brownie pan to make brownie squares, so I just set the entire pan on a cooling rack and let it sit there. It probably was about 3 hours before I took them out. I tried one and it still didn't seem fully set but I was quite pleasantly surprised that it tasted pretty good! Yes it is true that it is not the Betty Crocker Brownie mix, but it was a good tasting brownie, especially considering it was made with BLACK BEANS! (I also think that if I had the right chocolate chips it would have made a difference). My husband tried one (at this point he still had no idea that they were any different other than I told him there would be oats in it because it used oats instead of flour... only a small white lie, right?) He had just woken from a nap so his face was a little underwhelming, but he nodded in approval and then I told him the secret ingredient. He looked at the brownie as though it was an alien from outer dimensions of the universe, disbelief in what he now knew versus what he was seeing and tasting. He shrugged, nodded in approval again, and ate the rest of the brownie. His main issue was that they still didn't seem fully set! I was so excited and happy that he liked it and couldn't wait to share our experience with you all!
The brownies are now on a plate in the fridge, setting up more, and we can't wait to have another one tomorrow!
Moral of this experience, never judge a book by its cover, or a recipe by its ingredients! Don't prejudge anything before you have a chance to try it out for yourself! I would like to again thank @NikkiLimo and @ChocolateCoveredKatie for their inspiration and shares! The world becomes a happier place when you don't have to journey alone 😃
Now, sure, everyone has different taste buds. Its possible that the people who enjoyed this recipe actually like black beans by themselves, so they may not dislike the brownies because it isn't a taste they normally dislike. So I HAD to try it. If you follow my Facebook page "Scrappy Gidget Homemade" or have seen my YouTube videos, you know that 2018 is the start of a lot of things for me. One of the most important is my husband and I's health. We want to eat right and for him, even though he can be a picky eater, he can also eat the same thing over and over again and it works for him. Me? NO WAY! I can't even if I try. I get bored and eventually end up just not liking the food. It is true that too much of something isn't always a good thing. Therefore, I am stuck with the conundrum of finding healthy new recipes to try, within the constraints of our medical needs, while also trying to convince my love that brussel sprouts really can taste good (well, you get my point).
There are some key things that I should mention. I followed the recipe *almost* to a T. The recipe called for "quick oats" and Katie made a point in mentioning in her blog that she has always made the recipe as is, never having substituted quick oats for something like rolled oats, almond flour, etc. Well, this Gidget only had Rolled Oats and Almond Flour in her pantry. So I took a chance and went with the rolled oats (I mean they were probably closer to the quick oats than the almond flour, right?) So that was one difference. The next "variation" I made came along when I realized that I had previously ate most of the dark chocolate chips that I had on hand with some raspberries as a snack, so I only had maybe 1/8 cup. So I had to improvise with what I had. Yep... I did it. I sacrificed the full size Hershey Milk Chocolate bar I had and chopped it to bits. I used that in an attempt to replace the chips and it seemed to work okay (although I want to try again with all of the original ingredients).
*** THE RESULTS *** SPOILER ALERT!!! ****
First, I have to say it was a big confidence booster when my husband came home and said "Ooooh! Are you making brownies!?" So a) yes they smell (and look) like brownies.
The instructions on the original recipe say to let them cool for a long time or over night, which Niki also mentions in the video she doesn't know how much is enough time. I used my PamperedChef brownie pan to make brownie squares, so I just set the entire pan on a cooling rack and let it sit there. It probably was about 3 hours before I took them out. I tried one and it still didn't seem fully set but I was quite pleasantly surprised that it tasted pretty good! Yes it is true that it is not the Betty Crocker Brownie mix, but it was a good tasting brownie, especially considering it was made with BLACK BEANS! (I also think that if I had the right chocolate chips it would have made a difference). My husband tried one (at this point he still had no idea that they were any different other than I told him there would be oats in it because it used oats instead of flour... only a small white lie, right?) He had just woken from a nap so his face was a little underwhelming, but he nodded in approval and then I told him the secret ingredient. He looked at the brownie as though it was an alien from outer dimensions of the universe, disbelief in what he now knew versus what he was seeing and tasting. He shrugged, nodded in approval again, and ate the rest of the brownie. His main issue was that they still didn't seem fully set! I was so excited and happy that he liked it and couldn't wait to share our experience with you all!
The brownies are now on a plate in the fridge, setting up more, and we can't wait to have another one tomorrow!
Moral of this experience, never judge a book by its cover, or a recipe by its ingredients! Don't prejudge anything before you have a chance to try it out for yourself! I would like to again thank @NikkiLimo and @ChocolateCoveredKatie for their inspiration and shares! The world becomes a happier place when you don't have to journey alone 😃
Wednesday, January 10, 2018
Read This! Reading Wednesday with SG
It is Wednesday, what are you reading!? #PopSugarReadingChallenge2018 has got me in a reading frenzy!!! It is a reading challenge that comes out every year and this year, I am ready!
The Bullet Journal is the creative way I am tracking my progress. It wasn't easy to remember what the prompts were without checking the list, which in the past has been on my fridge! This year, I am using Bujo to track my progress. What makes this year different than past years? If you watch the video, you know that I have failed. This year I took a different approach and also had kept an eye out for when #PopSugar released the challenge. I was proactive in looking at the first several prompts on the list and picking a few titles that matched the categories. Having a set list of book titles versus just the prompts I think created a stronger traction to start. Last year I know it was difficult for me to find titles that fell within the prompts. The research I put into the different titles this year made it easier to be prepared for the challenge. I DO NOT HAVE THEM ALL PICKED OUT! That is okay! I will be tracking my progress as I go and when I have a few books under my belt, I will set aside some time to research a new group of prompts and select titles.
What do you love about reading? Is it the escape? The story? The peek into another world or perspective?
Recommended Reading:
There has been one book that I have read in recent years which literally changed me. "Light Between Oceans" by L.M. Stedman is an amazing book that has a strong character development, a maze of symbolism, and is a novel that leaves an ethereal and lasting impression on it's readers. This is one that I highly recommend to those looking for something to read. I warn you, have your tissues ready! It does have some sad parts, but the language and imagery is so powerful it touches you to your deepest core.
Hope you all check in next week on progress and updates with my challenge journey!
#GetSmart #ReadABook
The Bullet Journal is the creative way I am tracking my progress. It wasn't easy to remember what the prompts were without checking the list, which in the past has been on my fridge! This year, I am using Bujo to track my progress. What makes this year different than past years? If you watch the video, you know that I have failed. This year I took a different approach and also had kept an eye out for when #PopSugar released the challenge. I was proactive in looking at the first several prompts on the list and picking a few titles that matched the categories. Having a set list of book titles versus just the prompts I think created a stronger traction to start. Last year I know it was difficult for me to find titles that fell within the prompts. The research I put into the different titles this year made it easier to be prepared for the challenge. I DO NOT HAVE THEM ALL PICKED OUT! That is okay! I will be tracking my progress as I go and when I have a few books under my belt, I will set aside some time to research a new group of prompts and select titles.
What do you love about reading? Is it the escape? The story? The peek into another world or perspective?
Recommended Reading:
There has been one book that I have read in recent years which literally changed me. "Light Between Oceans" by L.M. Stedman is an amazing book that has a strong character development, a maze of symbolism, and is a novel that leaves an ethereal and lasting impression on it's readers. This is one that I highly recommend to those looking for something to read. I warn you, have your tissues ready! It does have some sad parts, but the language and imagery is so powerful it touches you to your deepest core.
Hope you all check in next week on progress and updates with my challenge journey!
#GetSmart #ReadABook
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