Week 5 Friday (2/7/14)

Recipe Review

Today’s Recipe and Location:  Perfect Potatoes Au Gratin

         Found in: The Pioneer Woman Cooks: Food From my Frontier

                           Pages 226-227      Copyright:  2012  Harper Collins

I figured out that there are 365 calories per serving, if 8 servings are made. (Please note that the calorie counts vary depending on the specific brands of ingredients that you choose to use.)

         These potatoes are fabulous! They are rich and gooey and filled with flavor.  I literally just had a bowl of these taters for dinner and was satisfied. I froze these because I made so many servings and they were good the second, third, and fourth….times, too. This would be the perfect side dish for a roast or even a holiday.  I am declaring that heavy cream is a must!

Don't you wish you had a fork????

Today’s critics: 

         The Serpicos:  Nicole served the potatoes with pork chops. “We really liked the pork chops and potatoes.  We just didn’t need anything else.”

Why Weight?

         Body Image is all about how we view our own body.  Unfortunately, how we feel about our body goes hand-in-hand with how we feel about ourselves and who we are in the world. Now this is a rough area for most of us because we focus on our flaws rather than on what’s good about how we look.

          I look in the mirror and definitely see the changes, but from my perspective I still have a long way to go to reach “normal” and be proud of how I look.  I am not sad about this, but realistic. I have a lot of work to do.

         I am very pleased with what I have accomplished, but since I am changing pretty quickly, I refuse to buy new clothes.  I have had all the sizes that I have encountered so far, but I think I am closing in this summer on a new wardrobe. This will make my friends Jenny and Sara happy since they keep telling me to treat myself and go out and buy something new.  The real treat is coming to school dressed in decent, if not cute clothing, and not having spent a penny to buy them for the past year and a half.

         All right girls – look for a new and updated Becky come fall.

Fabulous “Family” Food

         Today’s recipe comes from my sister, Susan’s mother-in-law Ann Kunzelman. Ann was a woman filled with joy and life. She was a wonderful cook and friend.

Ann Kunzelman’s Potato Salad

2 green onions

 5 lbs. baking potatoes

hard boiled eggs

bacon

mayo & mustard mixed together – thin it with milk

salt and pepper

small onion

celery if preferred

Directions:  The exact amounts are by preference. I love a lot of bacon in my potato salad as well as the mustard mayo mix.  Do it all to your taste or preference!

         This is a little sketchy, but I can tell you it makes one heck of a yummy potato salad.  I like it the best when my sister goes to all of the trouble and makes it for me.  Are you really surprised???

Week 5 Thursday (2/6/14)

Recipe Review

Today’s Recipe and Location:  Corn Chowder

         Found in: The Pioneer Woman Cooks: Food From my Frontier

                           Pages 73-75      Copyright:  2012  Harper Collins

I figured out that there are 123 calories per serving, if 10 servings are made. (Please note that the calorie counts vary depending on the specific brands of ingredients that you choose to use.)

         I am in love with this corn chowder. It has so much flavor and was very filling.  I think corn is my favorite vegetable and this really hit the spot.  It isn’t hard to make and I must say that fresh corn off of the cob is the way to go, unless it is the dead of winter and we only have the old frozen type. Either way, this is a wonderful side dish for any meal.  I loved it as a stand alone lunch.  It is like a soup and I loved every single bite.

Doesn't think look yummy?  It is rich and creamy and a darn good lunch.

This is how I am sure all of my serving sizes are all the same

Today’s critics: 

         Brandy:  Grilled Corn Chowder - Holy Spicy? Did you think it was spicy? I thought it was good, but whoa, maybe a little too spicy for me. Was there bacon in there? I thought I tasted bacon...Filled me up for lunch, I think I would make it on my own, but I would need to cut down whatever made it so spicy...maybe I'm just being a wuss today : )

         The Serpicos:  Nicole said that it was good but she wanted it to be thicker.  She said, “It was hearty and tasty.”

Random Reflections

         Have you ever been to Fabyan’s Japanese Gardens?  They are located on the west side of the park off the Route 31. I passed by there yesterday and remembered a wedding I went to for a previous student of mine.  The wedding was gorgeous and the gardens take your breath away. I do remember a slight mosquito issue because it had rained, but a little bug fogging in the morning could help alleviate that issue.  If you are ever interested in having an outside wedding, check out the beautiful Japanese Gardens.  I also think it might be a great place to take a family picture in the summer.  SMILE!!!!

Irksome Ideas and Images

         I admit that I have a real problem when it comes to drinking.  No I don’t mean alcohol, since I don’t drink it, but just plain old drinks like Diet Coke and Powerade Zero. I really like my drinks to be icy cold and have a thin layer of ice on the top. This has led to me become the expert at exploding pop cans. 

         A few months ago I exploded a can of Diet Root beer in my freezer.  Now that wouldn’t really be a problem, except that I had just finished stocking it full of Ree’s wonderful dishes. I had pop everywhere.  Each time I opened the door, chunks of frozen root beer fell onto the floor and instantly melted. The floor had to constantly be washed.  It was all over the dishes, the top and back of the freezer, and in the crevices of the boxes.

         Of course, this is 100% my fault and it really is a foolish issue to even write about and admit to doing, gosh possibly because it is just plain stupid, but it happens at least twice a year.  Maybe I should just learn to love drinks at room temperature and get over myself.

Week 5 Wednesday (2/5/14)

Recipe Review

Today’s Recipe and Location:  Billie’s Italian Cream Cake

         Found in: The Pioneer Woman Cooks: Food From my Frontier

                           Pages 241 - 243      Copyright:  2012  Harper Collins

I figured out that there are 690 calories per serving, if 18 servings are made. (Please note that the calorie counts vary depending on the specific brands of ingredients that you choose to use.)

         I can’t say that I enjoyed making this cake. I followed the recipe, but found it difficult to frost the thing. I waited until it cooled completely, but every time I spread the frosting the top layer of the cake peeled up and mixed in with the frosting. I was one very frustrated baker at the time.  I do not know what the heck I did wrong – but it looked a mess when I was finished.  I also thought it was sickeningly sweet because there were many layers with frosting between each one. I have thought of a possible solution to my problem.  I think I will try to make it as a sheet cake. This would cut down some of the excess sugary sweetness. I haven’t yet figured out the frosting spreading problem – I may have to stop at the local bakery and ask what I did wrong. Why don’t I live in Oklahoma so I could just ask Ree in person?  It sure would be faster than finding a baker that would help me.

Today’s critics: 

         The Serpicos commented:  “Oh my gosh! This was grossly sweet and not a pretty thing to look at.  This is tooth decay in just one bite!”

         Brandy: “Yummy, was there coconut in that? I thought I tasted coconut? Very good, very rich I thought, so I could only have very small pieces, but I thought it was good.

Gabbin’ About Gratitude

         I have a second mother figure whose name is Nancy Stopka and she was definitely put in my life for a reason. She was always kind and caring to me. She welcomed me into her home every day and even put up with me on Saturday mornings (cleaning day at the Stopka household).

         In 1976, when I moved to Florida to get an apartment with Kathy, her wonderful family welcomed me with open arms. Kathy’s Mom was such a support for me.  When I needed a job, we sat down at the kitchen table and she opened the telephone book (yes – we really used this in those days) and we began paging through it and discussing the type of job I wanted.  It didn’t take us long to hit on the Capt. Anderson. Thanks to Nancy Stopka I got a job I loved for almost 10 years. 

         But my love for her is greater for more than just finding me a job. She invited me to every holiday at her home when I lived in Florida, and we were in her home several days a week. She welcomed my Mom when she came to visit.  She is thoughtful, insightful, and loving.  She has always made me feel special and for those reasons I admire her greatly and enjoy talking to her.  I am so thankful that she has been involved in my life for so many years.

Memory Musings

         When we were seven or eight Julie Rascher used to put on plays for the neighborhood.  She always had the best part which seemed right because they were held in her garage and they were her costumes. I enjoyed them at the time even though we were laughed at by the other kids in the neighborhood. We were no Shakespearian troop – that’s for sure.

         After age eight, Julie and I remained friends but I had discovered Kathy Stopka. We were much more compatible and became the best of friends. 

         The only other play I was in was Oliver in high school.  I truly enjoyed being in a musical. 

Week 5 Tuesday (2/4/14)

Before I began I want to wish a Happy Birthday to my nephew, Shane.

Recipe Review

Today’s Recipe and Location:  Beef and Bean Burrito

         Found in: The Pioneer Woman Cooks: Food From my Frontier

                           Pages 66-67      Copyright:  2012  Harper Collins

I figured out that there are 544 calories per serving, if 12 servings are made. (Please note that the calorie counts vary depending on the specific brands of ingredients that you choose to use.)

        

         I have never actually made a burrito before so this was going to be a first for me.  Personally, there is nothing better to me than a burrito bowl from Chipotle.  I may go so far as to say I am a burrito bowl addict.

         The burritos were fun to make but I made myself crazy when I decided to make 24 of them.  I would have liked the meat to be spicier and maybe add a few less beans. I must say that mine was to die for when I added guacamole and sour cream on top.  I really felt like I accomplished a new skill and will definitely make them again. 

Unfortunately, I added the guacamole after I took the picture

I really needed something else on top - oh well maybe next time.

Today’s critics: 

         The Serpicos were sent quite a few of these gems. They thought the burritos were good but a whole one was too much.  A half seemed just about right. They felt they weren’t anything special but prefer to build their own burrito.

         Brandy Lehman reported, “Did not care for the burritos, But I’m not sure what it was but they just weren't for me. I did give a couple to Greg, so you should ask him for his opinion too, but for me, no good. Very spicy, and too many refried beans.

Why Weight?

         What is a binge? It is crazy overeating pure and simple. When I binged it was to make me numb, feel nothing, want nothing but peace from my thoughts and shortcomings. I ate to hide my feelings because they were overpowering at times. The problem with a binge is the aftermath. I had feelings of self-loathing, disgust, and disappointment in my failure to maintain my ability to lose weight.

         I recently, at the end of January, had a mini binge after the holidays. Even though I am not on a diet, but just counting calories, this time was different than any other in the past. It was two days of continuous eating, but I did maintain some control. Over the holidays I gained a total of six pounds. I went up and down during that time but on January 23^rd I got back to my new normal.

         When I began counting calories I discovered that I could avoid a plateau if I varied my calories totals each week.  For instance, on the 23^rd I ate 1,501 cal., the 24^th was 1,538 cal., the 25^th was 1,758 cal, and the 26^th was 1,746 calories and then I dropped seven pounds.  Life can be really good.

         The compulsive eating did not come to me overnight. I have perfected it over my lifetime. But now I understand my needs better and because I know better – I do better.

         I am so thrilled that I have finally broken through the dam and am back on my journey. Yeah for the 116 pounds I have lost to date. That makes me 151 pounds lower than my highest weight.  Thank God I am back on the road to a new normal and lower weight.

        

My Gorgeous Girls

         Are you doing all that you can for your four legged friends?  One of the things on my monthly calendar is to make sure I give my girls their heartworm pill and apply flea and tick prevention.  I personally administer these two on the first of each month, which is the same day I change my furnace filters.  Sorry – off topic - random thought.  I write everything down which is not to say I am losing my mind – okay it could be, or maybe its just because I am a busy girl.  Either way – my girls come first.  Plan ahead and always have pet supplies on hand.

Week 5 Monday (2/3/14)

Week 5         MONDAY

Recipe Review

Today’s Recipe and Location:  Hummas

         Found in: The Pioneer Woman Cooks: Food From my Frontier

                           Pages 94-95      Copyright:  2012  Harper Collins

I figured out that there are 377 calories per serving, if 8 servings are made. (Please note that the calorie counts vary depending on the specific brands of ingredients that you choose to use.)

         I have only tasted hummus one time at the home of one of my previous students. They served it with carrots and various crackers.  I took a big bite and it was okay but not something that really interested me.

         As I was perusing the cookbook I came upon Ree’s hummus recipe. My first thought was that memory of my first bite of hummus – bland and tasteless .  Ree’s hummus was not difficult to make and it was loved by all critics. I tried it but it still didn’t float my boat.  I also discovered a health reason why this is not the dish for me.  I am on a drug called Coumadin.  Apparently, chick peas a.k.a. garbanzo beans,  which are a main ingredient in hummus, will make your blood thicker which is really bad for me.  My blood test went way down and I learned that the cause was that dip. So in this way I owe Ree a big THANK YOU!  If she didn’t have that recipe in her book, I may never have discovered that garbanzo beans are detrimental to my health. If you love hummus – this is a great recipe for you to try.

Today’s critics: 

         The Serpicos all loved it. They were very hungry and chowed down on hummas and crackers. They really enjoyed this dish and the spicy crackers made it even better.

         Brandy Lehman said, “Great! The flavor was excellent. I think people either like hummus or don't like it, and I am a person that likes it. Ree’s recipe tasted great on both the crackers and carrots.

Craft Corner

         One of my favorite things to do is to make cards.  I used to do this every summer so I had enough to send out for the entire year.  The last two years I have failed miserably.  I have so many activities that I love to do that this one somehow got pushed to the side. 

         I can’t wait to retire so I have 365 days to do all of the things that give me joy and challenge my creativity. I can’t imagine what that will be like for me.  Knowing my scary organizational side, I will probably create a 365 day calendar and enter in activities to fill each day. 

         So many retired people have told me that I will return to school and sub because after awhile I will be bored at home.  They definitely don’t know the “home me.” I guess I don’t share all of the activities and crafts that I work on with my school friends. I can honestly say that I have never been bored a day in my life.  I get that gift from my Mom.  There are always new things to try, books to be read, gardening to do, and crafts to make. 

         Here are a few examples of my cards.  Yes – Donna, we made these when we went to that church somewhere and had a scrapbooking day!  I miss those fun days.

Random Reflections

         Driving to work each day is always a challenge but it is made stressful by people who tailgate. What is the real point? Are they late risers?  Will they be fired if they are a minute late or are they just aggressive drivers? 

         I really don’t get it.  I have been known to be a little passive aggressive myself when being followed a little too closely. I must admit that in the past I have pulled up to the vehicle next to me and kept going the same speed as it is going to make everyone slow down. I know I frustrated the tailgater but I must admit that when faced with no options the person relaxes and backs off.  At that point I speed up and let them pass.  Of course, I make no eye contact as that would look like it was intentional.  Oh well – another day, another drive.

Wants and Wishes

         I was reading the Tribune the other day and read story after story that just made me feel horrible.  So many people are struggling and downtrodden.  I want to remember how fortunate I am and that I need to have patience in my every day life.  Plato said it best, “Be kinder than is necessary because everyone you meet is fighting some kind of battle.”  WOW!  It’s like he is here.  So many things said long ago still apply to our lives today. My wish is to be aware and focus on being kinder than necessary!

Week 4 Sunday (2/2/14)

Recipe Review

Today’s Recipe and Location:  Pizza Dough

         Found in: The Pioneer Woman Cooks: Food From my Frontier

                           Page 141      Copyright:  2012  Harper Collins

         The crust really held up on the second day.  It really supported the pizza and never became soupy or excessively moist. The pizza dough is easy and quick to make, and there’s nothing as good as homemade pizza. Ree used it with a breakfast pizza, but I would also love to make my own pizzas on a Friday night. What could be better than a thin crust pizza with pepperoni, black olives with extra cheese? NOTHING!! I never made my own pizzas because it was just plain easier to pick up the phone and order that small Pockets Pizza.  Okay – now that I am constantly cooking, I know I can do it better.  The dough can be made ahead of time so there will be no more excuses in this home – come over and let’s enjoy a slice!

Look carefully....you can see the yummy butter ready to ooze into the crust.

Trivial Triffles

         Did you know that there are four known pairs of ruby slippers made for Judy Garland in the Wizard of Oz still around today? A few months ago the television was talking about The Wizard of Oz.  They said, and Real Simple Magazine agrees, that the slippers can be seen in the Smithsonian, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and a private collector has the third. The fourth pair was stolen from Judy Garland’s museum.  Whoever took them should be worried because the law will eventually catch up with you, my pretty!

        

Memory Musings

         Sledding wasn’t the only way we spent our winter months. We also loved to ice skate in the Burger’s backyard.  The area behind their house in the extra field flooded to make a natural ice skating area.  All of the kids were bold and daring ice skaters, and we loved the game of ice tag.  I can’t say any of us could have ever been Olympic Skaters or professional hockey players, but we all put in a lot of effort and had a blast. I am sure I had absolutely no technique, but the goal was to stay upright and avoid the person who was “it.” I look back on that time with a smile on my face. It wasn’t as if we planned anything – it was all spontaneous fun.  What more can someone ask of a childhood memory?

Week 4 Saturday (2/1/14)

Recipe Review

Today’s Recipe and Location:  Breakfast Pizza

         Found in: The Pioneer Woman Cooks: Food From my Frontier

                           Pages 26-27      Copyright:  2012  Harper Collins

I figured out that there are 320 calories per serving, if 15 servings are made. (Please note that the calorie counts vary depending on the specific brands of ingredients that you choose to use.)

         This was a wild cooking weekend. I made several dishes, trying to get ahead. I made one for both of my amazing critics and then a small one for myself. Unfortunately, I was so exhausted from trying to be a fabulous chef that I didn’t even take a bite of my own.  What is that about? Too tired to eat – that may be a first for me.

         On the second day, I loved the way the flavors melded together.  Maybe this was a sign – by eating it on the second day it might have been even better than the first day – but how would I know that for sure??? This is a hearty breakfast and gave me a warm feeling.  I would love to serve this on a brunch table.  It would be a real hit. I think I am now in love with pepper bacon.

         What is pepper bacon?  I had never heard of it until this recipe.  I can attest to the fact that I am now a big fan of this spicy bacon.  After tasting this gem, regular bacon is a thing of the past, at least in this household.

Boo Boo time.  The eggs were supposed to stay whole and not break!  Oops!

Today’s critics: 

         The Serpicos: While cooking the pizza the eggs on top became rubbery-like. The girls said it was spicy. Even Nicholas ate it!  The kids said they don’t like green peppers but they ate it anyway.  Yeah!!! It was a very southwestern dish: heavy and filling.

  

Random Reflections

         I love winter.  I love the white snow, the brisk air, and the hot chocolate by the roaring fire.  For some reason, I have been so cold lately.  I don’t know if it is the weight loss or if my windows are beginning to fail. I really should look into the cost of replacing my windows because I believe the glazing is not holding this year. Darn it – I really wanted it to be the weight loss – better luck next time. 

         I watched a show that suggested just replacing a room at a time.  This is a smart idea if money is a problem.  I don’t have a lot of money sitting around so maybe this summer I will investigate the cost and companies who replace windows.  Next year could be a lot more comfortable and cozy than this one.

Fabyan Park, Batavia, IL

Helpful Home Hints

         I met a wonderful woman at Curves named Lois.  She shared with me an amazing window cleaning solution that is the best ever.  My windows and mirrors look amazing after using this concoction.

         The recipe:

                  1 pint of isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol 90%

                  1 teaspoon Joy dishwashing soap

                  ½ cup sudsy/cloudy ammonia (found at Amstads in Batavia –                                                   other stores may carry it but that is where she bought hers).

Directions:  Add all ingredients to a gallon jug and fill the remainder with water. 

         Unless you have a mansion, this will last you for some time to come.  I love it so much that I just had to share it with y’all.