Wow

Has it really been that long since I have been able to sit down and write?! I am amazed at how quickly time flies. Just as I was ready to jump into my Mary Kay business, I lost my full time job. I was unemployed for part of the summer and into the fall. It was a long and difficult time for me. I was wondering when it was going to end. It was a daily struggle. I do not know know where I would have been without the love and support of my family and friends through this time.

I am saddened by the fact that I haven't written about most of this experience. In my trials, I ended up retreating into myself and really reflecting on my life. It would have been more therapeutic for me to write more, but I just didn't. Sitting here writing now is such a relief and joy. I write this mainly for me, but if I can help just one person realize there is silver lining somewhere for them as well, then it would be the best scenario possible. It would make all my times of struggle worth it.

Well, the hands of fate had finally turned in my direction. A job that had come my way last year around Christmas (and had turned down) became available again this October. I think that things happen in your life, things you go through, a divorce, a bad relationship, or losing a job, to help you understand how strong of a person you are. That is not to say I didn't struggle, or wonder why me, I had my days. I have, however, been able to look back on this whole ordeal and realize how much experiences in life shape you and help you grow as a person. I am a better and stronger person because of the things life has handed me. I can't say I am grateful for them when I am gong through them, but after getting through them, I realize how much of an experience it was.

I have been very busy with my new job and trying to get myself back on my feet. I love the everyday challenges of my job and feeling such a sense of accomplishment. I am now able to start focusing on my Mary Kay business again, and enjoying all that it has to offer. I am also able to be the mom I want to be, providing for my kids. I am a very lucky girl.

To hunt or not to hunt...

That is the big question for me this year. This year isn't turning out as I planned. The job loss has kept me from purchasing the equipment that I would need to be out in the woods this year. I have some clothes to wear, but the lack of income, kind of hinders my ability to purchase ammo, binoculars, or most importantly, the license.

I was looking forward to getting into the woods and hunting my first deer this year. I wonder if there are ways around this, gear I might be able to do without, or something else I haven't thought about. I don't know. Maybe this year just isn't meant to be my year....

Serious frustrations

I am sorry it has been a while since I have posted. It has been a crazy last few days. I have had my kids for most of this month, which is a great thing. I love my kids and enjoy the time I get to spend with them, so I have been focusing on being with them. I have also been focusing on the job search. I have sent out several resumes, without even a call. This begins my frustrations.

Adding to my frustrations is the dieting. I got on the scale after being (what I thought was) good on the diet. I didn't lose any weight. Total frustration! In my situation, I am on a very strict budget right now, and can't really go to the store to buy fresh foods every week. I am now struggling to figure how to lose weight, follow the program as closely as I possibly can, and to do it on a budget. I am counting calories and exercising (maybe not as much as I should) and drinking water (surely not as much as I need to be.) I know this is all a work in progress and I just have to choose wisely. In my stressful situation, that is not always easy, but if I don't choose wisely, accept it, don't blame or make excuses, and move on. I can choose to blame my lack of employment or use it as an excuse for not eating right or not working out, but it doesn't help me. I can only choose to try to do the right thing for me. And I will...

Iconic Statue on the move

The iconic Mack bulldog statue is going to have a long day. It is on its way from it's home in Allentown, Pennsylvania to it's new home in Greensboro, North Carolina. Mack Boulevard has been home to the Mack World Headquarters and the Mack Bulldog statue for years. Mack is transitioning to their new location in NC, moving the bulldog there is one of the last steps. Some Mack employees are sad to see it go. They took pictures before seeing it depart for it's new home.

The building that has been World Headquarters will be taken over soon by the Lehigh Valley Health Network. I grew up in Allentown, and to me no matter who is in that building, it will always be the Mack World Headquarters building. It is a sad day.

Strawberry Pretzel Salad

After a long day, and given the late hour of my dinner tonight, I had to have dinner and dessert. And all I can say about this dessert is... Oh My Gosh! Amazing and perfect for summer!!

Strawberry and Pretzel Salad

12 servings

2 cups crushed pretzels

3/4 cup butter substitute, melted (I used I can't believe it's not butter sticks)

3 tbsp sugar substitute (I use Splenda)

1-8 oz pkg low-fat cream cheese

1 cup sugar substitute

18 oz container Cool Whip Light (I used Fat-free)

2-3 oz packages no sugar strawberry flavored gelatin

2 cups boiling water

2-10 oz packages frozen strawberries

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Stir together crushed pretzels, 3 tbsp sugar substitute, and melted butter and mix well. Press into bottom of a 9x13 baking dish. Bake 8-10 minutes. Set aside to cool.

Cream together cream cheese and 1 cup sugar substitute. Fold in whipped topping. Spread mixture onto cooled crust.

Dissolve gelatin in boiling water. Stir in frozen strawberries and allow to set briefly. When mixture is about the consistency of egg whites, pour and spread over cream cheese layer. Refrigerate until set.

Quick Crab and Mushroom Alfredo

This dinner is one that I have prepared many times from the Body for Life recipes. It is my absolute favorite meal. I have even prepared it for my Mom when she was in town. I hope you enjoy this as much as I do.

Quick Crab and Mushroom Alfredo

2 servings

1/2 cup finely chopped onion

1 small can mushrooms (or use fresh)

2 portions imitation crab

1 can Fat-free Cream of Mushroom soup

2 tbsp Butter Buds

2 tbsp low-fat grated Parmesan Cheese (divided)

I Can't Believe It's Not Butter butter spray

2 portions whole wheat pasta

Cook pasta according to instructions. Spray non-stick pan with Pam and a couple of sprays of butter spray. Saute onion and mushrooms until onion is translucent and mushrooms are soft. Add imitation crab and saute for a minute or two. Add Cream of Mushroom soup, Butter Buds, and 1 tbsp parmesan cheese. Cook for approximately 5 more minutes on medium-low heat. Add in pasta and mix thoroughly. Add a couple sprays of butter spray. Serve topped with remaining tbsp of parmesan cheese. Can season with pepper.

Some days are better than others...

Saturday was just one of those days. I wanted to get the kids to the pool, but life had other plans. I had gone to bed at 3 in the morning the night before because I was trying to help my dad fix his computer by taking over his computer remotely, to remove a virus. It was a frustrating process, but am happy to say that I got rid of the (major pain) virus.

Morning came way to early. The kids cleaned their room, which was very necessary before doing anything else. I had to run to the store for a few things that I forgot earlier this week. It makes it hard to use the Body for Life program if you forgot some of the things you need to make recipes. Oh well. While at the store I found a few things that I have been wanting to get for my home. As a designer, I seem to be changing things in my house, constantly. But I guess that is why I love what I do. I redecorated with my new stuff, and organized a closet, or at least started. While I had the closet torn apart, my girlfriend called to say it was time for our walk. (I figured that since I have been having a hard time getting to the gym with the kids "Mom can't we go to the pool?" I figured I had better at least walk. Does the pool count?!) I hadn't had my dinner yet, so after I got home from the walk, I put my kids to bed and fixed dinner.

This morning I woke up 15 minutes prior to my kids' dad coming for them to take them to church. Oh no! I went to their room, and they weren't awake. On any other day when they can sleep in, they can't, When they need to be up, they sleep in. Why is that?! So I quickly packed them a breakfast on the go, helped them pick out their clothes, and sent them on their way. I cleaned the house while they were gone, and helped another girlfriend with some design dilemmas.

I also had a Pampered Chef party to attend today. After that I hung out with my girlfriends and cooked dinner. I later brought the girls home for bed. Sometimes I don't think I was this busy at work! Who said weekends were for rest?! I am not complaining though. I am very blessed!!

Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo

I had been at the pool today so I had worked up quite an appetite. I had been to the store and bought the items I needed earlier this week so all I had to do was pick from one of the recipes I had selected. I have a weakness for pasta and cream sauce, so I chose the Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo . (I also have a weakness for sweets, but we will get into that later.) Another meal today from the Body for Life program, another fantastic meal!

Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo

4 servings

4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts, cubed

1/2 package Linguine (8 oz)

1 can (10 oz) Campbell's Cream of Mushroom soup 98% Fat free

1 large bunch of broccoli flowerettes

1/2 cup skim milk

1/4 tsp black pepper

Cook linguine according to package directions in a large 3 quart pot. Add the broccoli for the last 5 minutes of cooking time. Drain the pasta and broccoli. Heat-up a skillet and spray with Pam. Add the chicken and cook until browned, stirring often. combine the Cream of Mushroom soup, milk, and pepper in a small bowl. Add the soup mixture and pasta and broccoli to the chicken. Heat through.

Serve with a small sprinkling (1/2 Tbsp) of Low fat or fat free parmesan cheese on top.

Tonight I only had 1-1/2 chicken breasts ready for cooking, so I cut the recipe in half. Even with cutting the recipe in half, I still ended up with 3 small sized servings. I am very happy with the portion sized I had tonight. I do promise to try to start taking pictures of the food.

Potato Cheese Omelet

I have been on the Body for Life program before. (I will admit I did not follow it completely, which is probably the reason I am back on it!) I had great success with what I did. Last Christmas I collected my favorite recipes and made a cookbook out of it. Now it is time to get myself to focus on just that, my self.

I started off my morning with a great breakfast. The hardest part was deciding on which recipe to make. My stomach growled as I read over my choices. I finally chose the Potato Cheese Omelet. It was delicious and I will definitely make it again.

Potato Cheese Omelet

1 serving

• Take 1 single serving (fist sized) potato. Wash and cut into 1/2 inch cubes. Dice 1/2 small onion and mix with potato.
• Pour one tablespoon olive oil into a warm skillet over medium heat. Add potatoes and onion and cover. Turn ingredients frequently to prevent sticking. Brown for approximately 5 minutes. Set aside.
• In a medium sized bowl, whisk four egg whites and one whole egg.
• Heat omelet pan then spray well with non-stick spray.
• Pour in beaten egg/whites, then heat over low until eggs begin to stiffen to form omelet.
• When eggs are nearly finished, add potatoes and sprinkle a tablespoon low-fat cheddar cheese. Fold over the sides of the eggs to form omelet. Cover with a lid and cook for 2 to 3 more minutes to ensure eggs are done.
• You can also add vegetables like mushrooms or peppers. I added spinach to mine.

This is a great high protein breakfast and is very filling. Serve with a full glass of water.

Hello there...

Hello. I am here to write just about anything that moves me on any given day. One day it might be a recipe I have tried, or a craft that I have made. It might be just a rambling about something that happened to me. Whatever I write I hope you find something entertaining to read here. Enjoy!