Super Noob:
food

"You Know You’re a Mom When-sDAZE" is a great way for us, as parents, to make light of our trials and tribulations. Our day to day run-ins with the crazy little people in our lives we call children. The very people we simply couldn’t live without. So with this, the possibilities of this are really endless...the creativity is all yours. In order to play along, all you have to do is either post a picture of something crazy, wonderful, endearing, or just plain cute, that your kids have done...explaining how it made you feel or the story behind it. Or, write a little post in the “You know you’re a mom when…” fashion. Grab my brand new button (if you fancy). Then come back over and link up. Thanks to all who linked up last time…can’t wait to see your post today!
You know you’re a mom when…everyone in the house is sitting down enjoying their breakfast, as you wildly try to accommodate and appease the yappers in order to keep the gnashing of the teeth to a minimum, causing your own food to turn out like this…

Yes…you can still see the smoke coming off of them in the picture. Bon appétit!
So whatever you’ve got…picture or otherwise…please link up!

Julie at The Peanut Gallery...exit here, who has wiggled her way securely into my heart, has awarded me with the Honest Scrap award. Thank you, friend. Since I began blogging, this was probably the one and only award I hoped to receive but never did...until now, of course. Now that I've got it (and I am really excited to finally have this one), I am hanging up the old "award" hat. I think they are fun, and I love it when others think of me...but at the risk of sounding like a major ingrate, I can't find the time to do the posts for them anymore. All the crazy linking, standing on your head, picking your nose, winking your left eye, and singing the Star Spangled Banner all at the same time is just a bit much for me.

So with this one I have to list 10 honest things about me. Honest? Darn it...there has to be a catch, right? I kid. I'm nothing if not honest. Anyway, here goes:

1. When I was younger I wanted to be a doctor. As I got older, I didn't want to do the school. As I got even older, I regreted not doing the school. Unfortunately, in college I didn't have the foresight which would have enabled me to see beyond my days of bars and boys. Seriously, I wasn't all that bad...pretty mild in comparison to many. In any case, I am quite happy to be where I am today. Can't imagine what my life would be otherwise.

2. I have eaten some really strange things in my life. As a child in particular. Among those things are dog food and fish food. Don't even ask.

3. I once peed in a flower bed in a public place. Again, don't ask.

4. My favorite number is 13, and my favorite colors are blue and yellow. In fact, our wedding colors were blue and yellow! Love, love, love it.

5. The one place in the world to which I want to travel over any other, is Russia. I am hugely fascinated with their culture. I would even like to learn the language. I actually know a few words and phrases. When I was fresh out of college and living in Dever, Co. I met some people from Russia. They became good friends, and thus my desire to learn more about their culture was spawned. Kak Dela?

6. I am currently struggling over whether or not we should change my blog tag line to "eight" little feet. Leaning toward keeping it six.

7. I cry at commercials. I never used to do that. I used to pick on my mom because she does it. Then I had kids, and my hormones went haywire, and never worked themselves back to their original state. Sigh. Now I am as sentimental as they come.

8. The blogs I love reading the most are those that write about "real" things. Things like their struggles in day to day life. The joy over their family, kids, etc. Humor over things to which we can all relate, and those that have great photography.

9. Like Julie said...I love music. I agree with her so much. A song can bring you back to a place in time quicker than anything else. I can instantly feel how I felt then, smell things I smelled then. It's amazing. Led Zepplin is one group in particular that brings back a lot of memories that are near and dear to my heart.

10. With me, what you see is what you get. Sometimes that's great, and sometimes it's not. My husband often accuses me of lacking the "filter" that others have which enables them to say things nicely. He says I can be abrasive. To his credit, he is not the only person who has said this about me. I'm perfectly okay with it. Better, I think, that you know where you stand with me. There is no wondering over what's going on in my head. Well, that last part may not be true. I mean, come on...how can you not wonder what goes on inside the head of someone who eats dog food and pees in public flower beds?

Now, I am going to pass along my last award.

The Empress at Good Day Regular People is, without question, an amazing writer. She has her heart in her blog, and I never feel bad about having spent some time "with her." If you haven't, you should go check her out and be sure to tell her I sent you!

Heide at From 3 to 5 is such a fun person. She's funny. I feel like I "get her." What I like most about her is the feeling that she doesn't put on aires. She is who she is, and is a joy because of it.

Three more...hang with me.

Kate, at Kate's Life. I love her heart. She is just an honest to goodness "real" person. I think she radiates warmth, and I like the way she shows genuine care for others.

Melis at The Zookeeper's Diary. She was one of my first favorites. Still is. When she sits down to "put it out there," she really does. Again, she is full of heart and honest, and has moved me to tears several times.

Finally, last but not least.

Sonora at Twinfinity. Sonora was on the verge of giving up blogging when I found her. I think she actually found me first, but I am so happy she did. And I am even happier she decided to stick with the crazy thing. I enjoy reading her posts which are riddled with funny and endearing stories.

Please, if I passed this to you, don't feel obligated to do anything with it. Chuck it if it pleases you, but I chose you because I honestly think you deserve it.

Th th th th th th, that's all folks!

My giveaway for a great nursing cover up ends soon. Please enter if you haven't!

I'm happy to be having another guest this week for a featured recipe. Today Heather from Marine Corps Nomads is sharing a fantastic gluten free recipe. I for one can not wait to try it!

Gluten Free 5 Cheese Quesadillasby Heather at Marine Corps NomadsIngredients:

• 1/4 C Shredded Cheddar
• 1/4 C Shredded Monetary Jack
• 1/4 C Shredded Pepper Jack
• 1/4 C Shredded Parmesan Cheese
• 1/4 C Shredded Colby Cheese
• Wraps (I use Sandwich Petals or gf corn tortillas)
• Olive Oil
• Garlic Powder
• Sides: sour cream, salsa, tomatoes, olives, onions, peppers...

1. Combine cheeses to create a cheese blend
2. Spray or brush olive oil on bottom of wrap & sprinkle with garlic powder.
3. Place wrap, oil side down, in pan and sprinkle with shredded cheese mix.
4. Cover with another wrap. Spray or brush top wrap with olive oil and sprinkled with garlic powder.
5. Heat on medium heat for 2-3 minutes on each side.
6. Serve with sour cream, salsa, tomatoes, olives, onions, peppers...

For more gluten free recipes, stop by Marine Corps Nomads.

Thank you, Heather for putting this together for us. Can't wait to try it out. Now, will you all do me a favor and go say hello to Heather... check out some of her other recipes while you're there. Oh, and don't forget to leave her a comment here!!

"You Know You’re a Mom When-sDAZE" is a great way for us, as parents, to make light of our trials and tribulations. Our day to day run-ins with the crazy little people in our lives we call children. The very people we simply couldn’t live without. Just share what has you knowing you're a mom (or dad) today, and then come link up. It can be anything...a picture, story, or a bunch of "you know you're a mom whens..."

You know you’re a mom when…

…you can take five stacks of folded laundry to their respective rooms without dropping a single article of clothing.

…you call yourself a genius because in an attempt to get a little more protein into the little people, you mix plain Greek yogurt into their mac n’ cheese and they are none the wiser.

…you consider yourself an accomplished cook, yet consistently manage to burn the food you make for yourself.

Come on over and share what has you knowing you're a mom today!

Since lately it seems I don't have an original thought in my cluttered head, I figured I would jump in with Mama M. and Five Question Friday. It's really fun, and honestly, I don't know why I haven't done it in a while. Just in a lazy blogger mode I think. So, now to answer her questions for the week.

1. Do you collect anything?
I wouldn't consider myself a collecter in the true sense...but I do have a p.j. fetish. Seriously, I can't even go by the p.j. area in Target without feeling a magnetic pull toward them. The absurd thing is that I rarely wear the cute ones I get. Like I'm saving them. For what? What the heck on earth am I saving them for?

2. Name 3 celebrities that you find good looking.
Matthew Mcconaughey, Jake Gyllenhaal (weird one, but whatever), and I don't know on number three.

3. Do you have any scars? If so, what's the story behind it (them)?
I probably have more than I can count. One in particular is like an arrowhead right under my right breast. When I was 5 I was wearing a tank top and went running past our car. The door handle was broken and I got too close. The handle tore a gash into my flesh (maybe I'm being a bit dramatic), and hence the pretty scar that never went away.

4. What is a food that you like to eat, but others might think it's gross or weird?
There are SO many of these for me. One is peanut butter and crackers with mustard. Don't even knock it. If you like all those things separately, you too may like them together. Or not.

Another is escargo. Oh so GOOD!

5. Have you ever seen a tornado in real life?
Everyday. It's name is My Children.

Tasty Tuesday is all about making your life easier, and well...tastier! This week I am bringing in reinforcements. The ever talented and oh so lovely Julie of the Peanut Gallery...exit here is sharing a recipe this week. What a pal, huh? Really though, she is a pal, and I just love her to pieces. Thanks, Julie! Without further nonsense (bet ya thought I'd say "ado")...

Well, after that intro, I feel like I must live up to the dear Mamma's expectations. I do have some talent...but it ain't so in the area of food preparation. But, if I may brag just a bit..I do have some pretty tasty recipes. When I say "some", I mean about 4!! Yep...that's about all your gonna squeeze out of the lady from the Peanut Gallery. I don't like to cook, and baking...well let's not even go there. While cookies are my favorite thing...mine always turn out like mini cakes, or worse. So if you ever want to become instant friends with me, just bake me some cookies! All this being said...don't run away just yet!

Today is your lucky day. This is the day when I share one of my "good" recipes. I use the term "my" loosely, because it is not really mine. My first grade teacher had a daughter who was my age. Here name was Paige. We were good buds back in the day. However, we lost touch over the years.

Enter Facebook!!

We were re-united last year. And unbeknownst to me...Paige has blossomed into an absolute guru in the kitchen. Her facebook updates often describe some mouthwatering delicacy that she is preparing, consuming, or sharing with friends. This is one of her soup recipes.

Yes, I am well aware that we are not in "soup season". However, if you live in the schizophrenic Northwest...then you very well could be having soup like weather. If not..then just tuck this baby away for a rainy day. You won't be sorry!! As an added bonus, because I'm concerned about your health, this is a very healthy soup. Not to mention the musicality of beans!
*******************************************************
Paige's White Bean Chicken and Spinach Soup

2 slices of bacon, chopped

1 lb. Ground chicken OR Turkey Sausage (I wouldn't use the Turkey sausage if I were you!)

1 Teaspoon Fennel Seeds (only if you use the ground chicken...not needed if you use the turkey sausage because fennel is already in sausage. I prefer the ground chicken though)

1 Teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (or to taste)

3+/- Garlic Cloves, grated on micro-plane (my preference) or diced

2 Cans White Beans with juice (Great Northern Beans or Cannellini Beans)

2 Quarts Chicken Stock

2 cups Spiral or Elbow Pasta (I use Barilla's multi-grain pasta...very good and good for you!)

Fresh Baby Spinach- About 4 handfuls of chopped

Brown bacon then add ground chicken with fennel seeds (or turkey sausage), garlic, and red pepper flakes. Add beans, undrained, and chicken stock. Simmer for as little 5 minutes or up to 45 minutes. Add pasta and spinach and simmer 8-10 minutes more. Make sure and remove from heat when pasta is done or noodles will get really mushy.

***Most important step: Serve with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, Parmesan cheese, and crusty multi-grain bread. Good for the soul!!!

***I second Paige's thoughts on using ground chicken. I've tried it with ground chicken, ground turkey, turkey sausage, and just plain chicken breast. The ground chicken is BEST...hands down!

Here's a little trick if your kids don't like beans...mash up one can. Then it won't seem so "bean laden"!
Works like a charm at our house.
Our kids love this soup.
Especially served in the fine china shown above.

See, I wasn't lying.
She wouldn't have given a 2 thumbs up if she didn't absolutely LOVE this soup.
Nope, even if I bribed her with a Twix bar.
She's ALL about giving her honest opinion!

I have a special talent. A talent for taking on projects that, at the time, seem like a great idea. A great, manageable idea. Then time starts doing its thing, and before I know it I am down to the wire on whatever project it was that I (in most cases) haven’t even begun.

This time around I had this awesome idea to make something for my brother. He is a chef, and he and his girlfriend are going to Europe for several months in order to be exposed to their culinary cultures. So, I thought it would be fantastic to make him a travel journal/scrapbook. It will be interactive…where I pose questions for him to answer in order to make keeping it updated easier. There will also be spaces for him to write unprompted. There will be sections for him to record foods he’s eaten, wine he’s drunk, beer he’s chugged ;) and even places for pictures to be included. In my head it is the best travel journal that ever was! That’s just the problem…the thing is still just in my head.

Enter Christine of Memories by Christine. She offers consulting on scrapbooking and such. Have you seen her blog? Have you witnessed her creativity? If not, you should…right now. Christine is going to help bring my journal to fruition. I have about a month to get it done, and as I go I will share some of the pages I have done.

Wish me luck! Really though, I feel like I am in good hands with Christine.

***Don't forget to head here to participate and win some Reefs***

Today, Liz from a Bell a Bean and a Chicago Dog has agreed to share a recipe with us all. Liz is great fun, so if you haven’t met her…go say hello!

Here is her recipe:

I love one-pot dinners. So easy to make and easy to clean up.
I always seem to accumulate partial containers of food in my fridge or freezer, and I like to put them to good use in a meal if I can.
That's exactly what I was able to do with my most recent one-pot meal, which I named Pseudo-Paella.
I knew I had a half lb of frozen shrimp and a 1/4 bag of frozen peas on hand. Craig had bought smoked turkey sausage that he intended use, but never did. And I always have an onion. So I bought a box of Zatarain's Yellow Rice at the store to use in my Pseudo-Paella dish.
I cooked the rice according to directions on the box. Once I poured the rice into the boiling water, I started chopping my onions. Those went in first, followed by the smoked sausage.

I waited until the the last 4 or 5 minutes to add the defrosted shrimp and frozen peas (corn would work, too). Shrimp takes to no time to cook, and the peas will get mushy if cooked too long.
When it was done, it looked yummy and tasted yummy, too. The dish was a hit with the whole family.

Thank you, Liz for sharing such a great recipe! Looks delicious.

Keely over at Mannland5 does Getting to Know You on Sundays, and it has been a little while since I have participated with her. Her questions are fun, and make for an easy post. Just what I need on a Sunday. If you decide you'd like to participate just copy and paste the questions into a post, answer and link up. Easy.


1. If you could star in any movie genre..what would it be..romance..horror..comedy..suspense or action?
How about a mix of comedy and romance? That seems about right.

2. Do you recycle?
Of course. I wear the same clothes at least twice before I wash them...oh, that's not what you meant? Yes, I do recycle.

3. Have you ever been to a strip club?
Totally not my cup of tea...but I have.

4. Do you have a nickname?
I guess "Nonie." Started as Shanonie, and was shortened. My old boss was the one to call me that, and it stuck for some people.


5. What's a name you can't stand to be called?
I'm not a big fan of "honey, sweetie, baby." Yuck.


6. What are your Summer staples?
As is food? I have no idea. How about clothes...I say my flip flops. Can't be without them.


7. What was the last thing you bought for yourself?
A roll of sugar free wintergreen breath savers and a pack of gum.


8. Are you happy with your boob size?
I'm indifferent to be honest. I have never been wrapped up in that at all.

There you have it. How about you? Gonna play? Let me know so I can come see...or just answer any or all of them right here.

I have been remiss. It has been at least a couple of weeks since I have participated in Five Question Friday with Mama M. Not very cool of me. Afterall, I would hope that if I ever started a meme that people would play along. Hint hint at (maybe) something to come.

1. Do you sing karaoke? If so, what is your go to song?
I used to love karaoke. This was before my mommy hood days. When I could drink a six pack of beer for courage first. Not so much anymore. However...wanna see me shame myself with some vocal un stylings? Then go see this post.

2. What is your favorite coffee drink?
Actually, I do like a good flavored latte. Like caramel. Usually, though, I just drink flavored coffee at home with a little creamer.

3. If you could choose your own name, what would it be?
I actually find it impossible to come up with anything that just doesn't seem odd. Can't imagine anything other than Shannon.

4. Were you ever bullied?
In sixth grade...yes...by a BOY! The little bastard. That is, until one day I punched him and he cried...all the while complaining that I hurt his sunburn. Pft...yeah right weenie. Never bothered me again.

5. How often do you eat fast food?
Could I have a definition of fast food please? I never eat anything like McDonald's, etc. I do eat Chipoltle on occassion, and have been known to have the odd Subway. So if that counts, then maybe once every other week I guess.

How about you? Would love to see your answers. If you have done your own 5QF post, then let me know so I can come check it out. If not, what's wrong with you? Really, if you just don't want to, then how about some answers right here in the comments.

Since I am all about feeding my children healthy foods, all of the time, this most certainly wouldn't be photographic evidence to the contrary. This is Colton. At the park. Sporting camo...and the remnants of his very first McDonald's cheeseburger. Sigh. It pretty much goes without saying, he loved it. Oh, and just to be very clear...I didn't wipe his face until we were ready to leave the park. That way, I was certain to be one of those mothers who let their kids run around looking like raggamuffins. As his mommy(ever biased), I do have to say that he is one adorable little raggamuffin!

...by the Lucky Chinese Tag

Erin over at The Mother Load tagged me. I have to now tell you my answers in each of the categories, then tag 8 new people.
8 TV Shows I Watch: (I have to say that if I could, I would watch all of these shows. I don't. I have watched them all, and like them all, but never watch them all)
-Grey's Anantomy
-Private Practice
-The Bachelor
-House
-Law and Order SVU
-Property Virgins
-House Hunters
-Dora the Explorer...defeated sigh

8 Favorite Places to Eat and Drink:
-Sushi Den (Dever, CO).
-Chipotle
-Chuys
-Les Rendezvous
-Binkley's
-Paradise Bakery
-PF Chang's
-Morton's Steakhouse

8 Things I Look Forward To:
-Bed time for the kids
-Going to the bathroom in peace
-Saturdays
-My photography class
-Being able to wear all of my clothes
-Completing P90X
-Having a wildly successful blog
-Someday having a clean and orderly house...again.

8 Things That Happened Yesterday:
-We had Chinese for dinner
-I took the kids to the park (I felt too warm in my long sleeved shirt)
-I wiped butts 6 times (none of which were my own)
-I made protein pancakes for breakfast
-P90X Plyometrics kicked my booty
-I went crazy
-I came back briefly
-Just to be sent straight there again

8 Things I Love About Winter:
-It's not 115 degrees outside
-Jeans
-Warm drinks
-Did I mention it's not so hot?
-Taking the kids to the park and having them not get 3rd degree burns from the slides/swings
-No swimsuits for a while
-Heatwaves are non existent on the roads (sensing a trend here)
-Sleeping comfortably

8 Things on My Wish List:
-A maid
-The ability to eat whatever I want and not gain an ounce
-Winning the lottery
-A new house
-Well behaved children
-More patience
-The Super Nanny
-My trip to Russia

8 Things I'm Passionate About:
-My children
-My husband
-My parents and brother
-Breastfeeding
-Photography
-Reading
-Blogging/writing
-Cooking

8 Words/Phrases I Use Often:
-What the hell's wrong with you?
-Stop hitting him/her
-No!
-Are you kidding me?
-Why don't you listen?
-Please stop it!
-You don't talk that way to Mommy
-Can I get a break?

8 Things I've Learned From the Past:
-You can't change it
-It's made me who I am today
-There are things I regret not doing
-Friends come and go, a few stay forever
-Nothing matters more than the ones you love
-My mother was right, I had one just like me
-It takes time to be comfortable and confident with who you are
-Fish food doesn't taste good...not even a little

8 Things I Currently Want/Need:
-Canon EF 85 mm L series lens
-A massage
-The new Lady Antebellum CD
-More free time
-A date night
-A girls' night
-Vacation
-To meet my newest little nephew

8 People I'd Like to Tag:
Tamara at The (Un)Experienced Mom
Elizabeth at Confessions of a Working Mom
Shandal at My Life in 3D
Michele at Finding Trinity
Cop Mama
Nicole at A New Normal
Heidi at From 3 to 5
Maven at A Fabulously Good Life

Another Tuesday...means another recipe! Sharing my love of food and cooking one recipe at a time. I hope that some of you actually take the time to try some of them out. Click my Tasty Tuesday tab and see what you've missed if you are new here. Heck, even if you aren't new here, and just need a recipe...have a look.
On the menu this week is a recipe created by yours truly. I have mentioned in the past that I am not the best at following recipes (ironic isn't it), but when I create something worth remembering, I turn it into one. This week is Beef Tenderloin in Red Wine Mushroom Sauce. I admit, this one is a tad more involved than some of the previous weeks, but not much.

First thing first...pour yourself a glass of that lovely red wine, and replenish as needed.
Ingredients:
1 lb beef tenderloin scliced into 1/2 inch think medalions(best when fresh from butcher)
1 1/2 cups sliced button mushrooms
1 whole yellow onion diced (or 3 shallots)
1 beef bullion cube (or about 1 1/2 C beef broth)
1 1/2 C water (only if using cubed bullion )
2/3 C red wine (give or take)
1 Tsp cornstarch
1 Tbsp butter
olive oil for cooking

Instructions:

Heat about 1-2 Tbsp olive oil over medium heat in a large non stick frying pan. Add onion (or shallot) and mushrooms and saute until tender. Remove from pan and set aside. Using same pan (wiped clean of juices) add a little more olive oil (approx 1-2 tbsp). Heat over medium-high. Add tenderloin to hot pan in a single layer as pictured above(cook in batches if necessary) and sear on one side until juices from meat begin to run, then turn and sear on the other side. Remove from pan and keep covered.

To the same pan (don't clean it this time) add red wine. Simmer(whisking up bits from bottom)over medium-low heat, and recuce by about 1/2. Add beef broth (or bullion pre-dissolved in water). Continue to simmer over medium-low. Sauce should not be watery...if it is, add cornstarch. Thicken slightly, then finish sauce off with the Tbsp butter. Add onion/mushroom and beef all back to the pan. Coat and heat through. Serve(You might choose to serve it over wide egg noodles, or rice). Great with oven roasted potatoes, steamed asparagus and french bread. It's actually not as much trouble as it seems, and it's so very tasty!

Friday in Blogland just couldn't get any better. Mama M. has some really great questions this week, and I couldn't keep away (not that I would try). Something about question and answer that is just so...well, simply fun!

This week's questions are:

1. What is better, growing old with out money or dying young and wealthy?
This is not a difficult question at all. I would absolutely say growing old without money. Money is great, don't get me wrong, and we are doing our best to earn a penny or two, and I'm glad we have it, but it's not what makes my world go 'round. I think about my kids, and how happy they are...seemingly without a care in the world. They would be just as happy if we were all living together in a one room apartment with no toys. All that they need is food in their tummies, a roof over their heads and mommy and daddy to love them. We could all learn a lot from our little ones.

2. Who takes out the garbage at your house?
Either Drew or Andy. On the very rare ocassion, I do. That happens only when no one has done it, the boys are not around, and I can't even cram in one more gum wrapper.

3. Have you ever had the same dream many times?
Yes, unfortunately I wouldn't classify it as a dream. I have recurring nightmares of either sharks, or someone chasing me. The chasing me nightmares are not that big of a deal because I have taken to flying in my dreams, and when someone chases me, I just take off in flight ;) The sharks are a little trickier...haven't quite managed to master them yet.

4. Can you play a musical instrument?
I played the flute for many, many years and still can. I also have had some piano lessons as an adult, and can play at an amateur level. I stopped just before Colton was born, and would love to take it up again.

5. If you owned your own store, what would you sell?
Child muzzles.

We're back today from Flagstaff, where we took the kids sledding with my Dad. A good time was had by all. I am more thankful today than I ever have been for Keely's Getting to Know You. Anyone else find it mildly amusing (and SUPER wonderful) that she is doing something so meaningful...like donating to Red Cross for every link or follower today (very grounded and deep), then the questions are so superficial (which I love, big time)! Irony at its best. If you're not familiar with this one, just cut and copy the questions into a post. Answer them, then link up to Keely's blog. Oh, and you probably oughta mention that she is our charming hostess. This week's questions are:

1. Hair color..Au naturale..or not?
Almost. I have highlights, does that count?

2. If somebody has food in their teeth or lipstick on their teeth do you tell them?
If it's my husband yes. Anyone else...depends on just who it is. For example, there was a time when some coworkers and I went out for lunch together with our boss. The boss had a piece of chicken (thread-like in quality) that was firmly imbedded between his teeth and was fluttering in the wind of his breath as he spoke. Totally didn't say anything.

3. Would you rather have a million dollars or your vision of the perfect body?
Well, really...if I had a million dollars, couldn't I just pay someone to train me into the perfect body? So, totally the million dollars.

4. Favorite magazine?
What are those? Seriously, I never get to read magazines anymore...but when I do, I just like nonsense. So, People is my choice.

5. Bra style..lacey or plain?
Gravitate towards plain. I like color, but not a fan of the lace. (didn't you ever read the post Erin at the Motherload did?)

6. If you walked into Victoria's Secret..would you most likely come out with something sexy or comfy?
Comfy. I've said this before (to Erin actually), but really...my sexy is shaving off the fur pants.

7. Do you fake and bake?
Really? Um, no.

8. What's your favorite body part on a man?
Well, I do enjoy looking at a nice little tush...but I have a thing for hands.

Now that I'm done, I want to know what you have to say. If you don't do your own post, leave your answers in the comments!

It's Friday! I love Friday because I get a reprieve from having to come up with my own ideas. Usually I participate in The (Un)Experienced Mom's Fill in the Blank Friday, and a couple of times I have done Mama M's Five Question Friday. Since I can't choose one over the other, today I will do both!

The rules for both are pretty much the same. You cut and paste the question into a post of your own, answer them, link back to their respective founders and then link your post up to their blog.

First, The (Un)Experienced Mom's Fill in the Blank Friday. The question this week is:

If I were going to be on a reality television show, I'd be on ________.
I don't think the 10 pounds I have to lose would qualify...but I would totally want to be on The Biggest Loser if I did need to lose that sort of weight. What an amazing experience to be able to absolutely transform your life. I always feel so inspired by what those people accomplish. Plus, I may have mentioned once or twice that I enjoy working out. ;)

Next up is Mama M's Five Question Friday. The questions are:
1. What's your "comfort food"?
2. Do you send Thank You's (handwritten or email)?
3. If you had to be trapped in a TV show for a month, which show would you choose?
4. What is your favorite online recipe site?
5. If you had to choose: "Friends" or "Seinfeld"?

1. What's your "comfort food"?
Dessert! Almost any type...but I prefer baked treats over ice cream (though I do love ice cream too). If it's done right, Creme Brule is the creme de la creme!
2.Do you send Thank You's(handwritten or email)?
Yes, but sporadically. Well, maybe not so much sporadically as only for specific events. For example, when I had my baby shower, I sent them. For Christmas, I don't. Maybe it's because I get gifts for the same people who get them for me, so it's like an even swap...no note required. At least I'm going with that!
3. If you had to be trapped in a TV show for a month, which show would you choose?
Rosanne. That way, when I got back to my own reality, I would appreciate it that much more. Plus I think she's a riot.
4. What is your favorite online recipe site?
Food Network. There is a recipe there for anything, and everything...and so many of them are awesome! In my opinion, it trumps all others.
5. If you had to choose "Friends" or "Sienfeld"?
Hmmmm. I really enjoy "Freinds," but Sienfeld is freakin' funny. "THESE PRETZELS ARE MAKING ME THIRSTY!!"

Now, go do your own post and be sure to link up. Then again, if you don't want to, and you'd rather leave me a comment with an answer or two...no need to twist my arm!

If you have read my blog for more than a week, then you know that on Tuesday I like to post a recipe. I know that coming up with new ideas for the family can frequently cause me grief. So, this is designed to help others who feel the same way. Today I am giving you my favorite Tuna Casserole recipe. This is comfort food if I have ever known it. The recipe comes from my own Mamma ;) I am not a fan of peas in my tuna casserole, so this one doesn't have them. If you like them...then toss them in the mix.

Ingredients:
6oz wide egg noodles uncooked
1 can tuna
1 cup diced celery
1/3 cup onion
salt and pepper to taste
1 can cream of mushroom (or celery) soup
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup mayo
1 cup cheddar cheese
Crushed __________ for topping. (Here you can get creative and use whatever you have on hand. You can crush plain potato chips, use bread crumbs, ritz crackers, or even corn flakes...totally up to you).

Instructions:
Pre heat oven to 350 degrees.
Cook and drain noodles according to package directions, and put them back in your pot. Add all other ingredients (except cheese) and mix until heated through. Then add cheese and mix until it is melted. Pour mixture into a casserole dish (sprayed with non stick) and add your topping to cover the mixture.
Bake in oven for about 15-20 minutes.

Since this is an all in one meal, we don't usually do a lot on the side with it. Would go well with steamed broccoli or another veggie of your choice. I also often double this one up because everyone likes it so much, and it is always great leftover. As always, I would love to hear what you think if you try this one out. If you like tuna casserole, you will be sure to like this.

Oh, and do you have a recipe you would like to have featured? Let me know! I would be happy to post it for you...giving you all credit and a link back of course.

Not Me! Monday time. After you read here, head over to MckMama's blog to read what others are not doing.

My brother works as one of the chefs at Binkley's, one of the most renowned restaurant in Arizona, and quite possibly all of the South West. It is certainly one of the best in the country. For Christmas, my brother treated my husband and I to a meal there. We went Saturday night while my dad stayed with the kids.

While at this 5 star restaraunt, it was not me who giggled like a little school girl every time they brought out a new amuse bouche. My husband did not make faces at the look of about 90% of these, which in turn, did not send me into fits of laughter. We are way too cultured to behave like that at such an establishment.

Keeping with the food theme, over the holiday weekend it was not me who ate so much junk that it sent my stomach into crampy spasms. I am not still suffering from said cramps as I type. **side note-I fear I may be coming down with some sort of stomach bug actually, and I am only hoping that it was all the garbage I ate that has me feeling like this**

That's it for me today. Let's hear from you! What didn't you do this past week? Leave it in the comments, or do a post of your own and link up to MckMama.

I am doing a melting pot of posts tonight. First, I really want to answer Keely's

Getting to Know You question. What was your favorite gift that you received this year for Christmas? This one is incredibly tough as I did receive some really spectacular gifts. So, I will mention two of them (though there are more that I loved just as much). First, Andy got me a necklace from Lisa Leonard Desings. It has the names of my kids on it, and I adore it (p.s. totally not sponsored to say that or anything...just lovin' the gift I got). Next was a gift that Andy went through a ton of trouble to procure. He registered me for a photoraphy class at a local community college. He actually had to get me accepted to the program they offer first. In order to do that, he pretended he was me to get my diploma, and my college transcripts. Sent them to the community college, and applied/enrolled online as if he were me. Crazy! Crazy that he did all that, and crazier that a community college needs all that when I already have a four year degree (well, it took me five years, but who's counting?). Anyway, I now get to attend the photography class starting in February once each week for, get this, six hours! The class is over three months long. Thrilled. Such a thoughtful gift.

This leads me right to my next segment ;) Christmas. Rather than bore with a lot of details, I will simply say that it was a wonderful time spent with family. We all received some wonderful gifts and the kids had a blast (as exhibited by pictures below). I am not entirely sure that Addyson got it as much as I thought she might. She loved opening presents, but I think the connection between the opening and the fact that they are now her gifts eludes her a little. Though I can't be certain. Colton, without question, had no clue...didn't expect him to. We had good food and good fun, and now I am feeling the "let down" effects after cresting the last peak on the Christmas roller coaster. Sigh. Happens every year. Now...for some pictures ;)

Addyson getting a peak at the loot Santa left behind.

Said loot

Addyson has a thing for Tink.

Turns out all Colton needed this Christmas was a box. Who knew?

My brother (taken with my new lens I might add). Yes, that was another favorite gift for me this year...from my Dad.

Addyson showing off her new shoes.

This is what I get when I ask her for a smile.

My cutest little bug...playing with the window.

This one my dad took...me.

My brother's girlfriend.

So now that I have inundated this one with pictures, I think I am done. The holiday buzz is dissipating (sadly we don't usually do anything for New Year's), and we are getting back to normal around here. I wouldn't have it any other way.

I have not even crossed the finish line yet. I still have to get one (maybe two) more gift(s), and I have to get stocking stuffers...I tell you, Santa is a slacker! Isn't stuffing the stocking part of his job?

Wrapping is well underway, however, and that has me feeling pretty pleased. I have been wrapping as I go, so I only have a few gifts left that need their festive skins. Our tree already has a fairly hefty bounty below.

We leave tomorrow to travel far and wide about 120 miles to visit family for all the festivities. I have been delegated to make the Spanish rice for our Christmas Eve dinner. Also, I opened my mouth and mentioned salsa...or something or other. So, I now have to do that too.

With all the craziness that is this season going on, I have not taken much time to sit back and enjoy it, or even think about enjoying it. Today's the day. I will get my last items scratched off my list, and will finally sit back (with a glass of wine perhaps) and revel in the completed tasks.

I honestly can't wait to see what Addyson will be like this year. I do think Colton will just be all about tearing the paper, but Addyson may finally "get it." So it should be fun.

In any case, since we are leaving, I probably will be M.I.A. for a little bit. Maybe not though...there is always the chance that some creative surge will occur and I will be able to get some posts done and scheduled. We'll see. Whatever the case...Merry Christmas! Happy every other holiday too for those of you that are not Christmas celebrators (is that a word?). Here's to great food, fantastic family and friends, lots of laughs, and being able to wear your favorite pair of shoes without a swollen foot (that one is just for MODG).