Showing posts with label cooking. Show all posts
Showing posts with label cooking. Show all posts

Tuesday, July 25, 2017

I Don't Have It All Together!



I'm gonna say it again,
I don't have it all together.

Some of you have seen what I have done over the years.
You've seen my IG pictures and FB posts.

Yes, I've run a marathon.
I've even gutted out an ultra-marathon.
I've used cloth diapers.
And made my own laundry detergent.

I thought baking my own bread was no big deal,
And so for awhile I did that, too.
I cooked my own baby food,
And mixed up our cleaning products.

I loved DIY projects, 
And filled my days creating, all while homeschooling.

Back then, others put me on a pedestal.
I knew how others viewed me.
And so I tried to balance up there,
Doing all I could to maintain that image
And be the perfect little housewife.

And then I crashed.
It's hard to teeter up there on that pedestal. 
I even believe the health issues I later discovered
Came because of these unrealistic expectations I put upon myself.

And so I come to you now in what I hope is a much more humble position.
I stand among you,
Not above you.
I will continue to share my experiences with you.
But I am still learning SO. Much. Myself.

I don't have every room completely organized.
I don't have everything labeled and color-coordinated.
My schedule doesn't always work.
I now buy my laundry detergent
And our bread, too.

My kids don't always obey cheerfully on the first time.
I (more often than I like to admit) loose my patience.
I get frustrated.
I am frail.
And, at times, I cry.

But through all of this I am learning.
This, my friends, is what the Cross is for.
I won't be able to do it all.
I will fail.
But because of His grace, 
I will pick myself up.
Over. And over. And over again.
I will cling tightly to my Savior's hand.

And I will remember,
I don't have to have every closet organized,
Or teach the perfect school year. 
I just need to be obedient to what He calls me to do.
And rely on His strength to do it.


Eunora






Friday, September 6, 2013

Fillin' Them With Somethin' Better-

I don't know about you,
But we are completely wrapped up in sports around here.
Football, to be specific.
Three out of four boys.
On three different teams.
In two different cities.
This causes my head to spin with scheduling issues.
Good times... I think.
No, really, we are loving it! =)
(That's my mantra!)

Anyway, enough about our crazy schedule
And onto what that means nutritionally.
Sports season always brings about sports drinks.
I'm not going to pretend that I'm ultra healthy
When it comes to eating,
But I do try.
Seeing those bright colored sports drinks
Makes me cringe a little.
Reading the labels makes me cringe a little more.

So, to the internet I went.
You know, I can find just about everything
With my friend, Google.
Google: DIY sports drink
Result plus a little tweaking and taste-testing
By my faithful four and BAM!
We, I, made our own without ingredients I can't pronounce.

So here, my friends, is our Sports Drink recipe:
Grape flavor-
4 cups water
3/4 cups grape juice (flavor)
2 Tablespoons raw honey (carbohydrates)
1/8 teaspoon Himalayan sea salt (electrolytes)

Citrus flavor-
4 cups water
1/2 cup orange juice
1/8 cup lime juice
1/8 cup lemon juice
2 Tablespoons raw honey
1/8 teaspoon Himalayan sea salt

Drink up, fellow athletes!

Eunora


PS- I wasn't sure if my boys would think it nerdy not to be drinking from the cool name-brand sports drink bottles, so I asked them if we could rinse out an old bottle and refill with ours. To my delight, they couldn't care less and was happy to drink my concoction without trickery. ;)



Tuesday, May 28, 2013

Homemade Chocolate Syrup!

Who knew?!
You can make homemade chocolate syrup!
I should have known.
Anyone can make anything anymore.

So here's what happened...
I was in a pinch.
A real pinch.
I brewed some coffee to make my homemade version of my guilty pleasure:
An iced coconut mocha.
I've been making this little treat with:
Chilled french press coffee,
Chocolate syrup,
Vanilla coconut milk,
And a few drops of coconut extract.
Poured over ice= a little piece of my kind of heaven.

Where the disaster strikes?!
I discover I am completely out of my organic chocolate syrup!
This drink is simply not sweet enough without the chocolate goodness.

Fortunately for me, the solution was only as few clicks away.
Googled homemade chocolate syrup and found
My tragedy had come to its end!

Here is the recipe I found: Homemade Chocolate Syrup

Homemade chocolate syrup | Kitchen Treaty

Only a few simple ingredients:
Cocoa powder, cane sugar, water, salt, and vanilla extract.

Whew! All my worries have come to an end!
Once this delectable goodness cools,
I'm a few steps away from my refreshing afternoon drink! =)

Have a wonderful afternoon, I am!

Eunora

Saturday, January 19, 2013

5 Dinners In 1 Hour

OK busy mamas, I've got something a little exciting to share with you all.
Dinner. The meal we all need to eat every. single. day.
And someone needs to prepare this meal.
This isn't a complaint, just an observation.
I think many of us are in a busy season of life right now.
Raising our kiddos, some of us schooling them,
Driving to sports practice and a host of other things the Lord brings our way.
Because of my full life, I was excited to find a little help.
Wanna know what it is?!?

5 dinners -in- 1hour (this is a link- click on it to be sent to their web-site)


So what is this?
It's a website offering you a deal.
$15 for a 3 month subscription will get you this:
Every month you receive a 5-day-a-week/4 week meal plan.
The plan includes: the menu, a grocery shopping list, and 
Instructions on how to prep all the meals for the week in 1 hour!

What did I have to loose?
For just over $1 a week, I was willing to try it.
I timed myself the first week and sure enough 
Had my meals prepped in the time promised.
I loved opening my fridge to see all my meals prepped and ready to go.
Doesn't this picture excite you?! 
The center shelve houses my week's meals! I love it!
Ok, maybe I'm a little crazy. =)


So there you have it.
I couldn't keep something like this all to myself.
Hope this can help someone out there 
Who may feel a little overwhelmed by all life brings our way.

Because of Jesus,
Eunora



Thursday, September 20, 2012

Strawberry Shortcake Muffins

I am always looking for new recipes to make for my family.
Although I plan my dinner menu, I don't have a set breakfast plan.
So yesterday morning I found myself thinking,
"What shall I make for breakfast today?"
And then I remembered a pin I had on a pinterest board.

Strawberry Shortcake Muffins

must try for breakfast - healthy strawberry muffins. no flour!!  just oats, yogurt, strawberries.

I love finding recipes that are not only tasty
But also provide a healthy meal.
(I used agave for sugar).
We ate these for breakfast along with our green smoothie.
Fortunately, we had enough for the boys' mid-morning snack.
Success!

For more fun breakfast ideas, check out my
'Startin' the Day' pinterest board here.

Happy Thursday, everyone!

Eunora

Thursday, August 9, 2012

What's for Dinner-

I've been MIA when it come to posts on menu ideas.
This Summer has once again proven to be a busy, inconsistent time.
I have to admit, we've eaten out, had last minute BBQ's with friends,
And eaten leftovers.
I know this happens for many,
But when it happens more regularly than irregularly,
It leaves me with, well, not much to put down as our menu. =)

But, in the midst of crazy schedules I have been able to try out a few new recipes.
So for those looking to try something different, here are some we liked.

Crockpot Korean Beef Tacos with Cucumber SlawCrockpot Korean Beef Tacos with Cucumber Slaw

These were tasty. A little Asian twist to the Mexican taco.
I also did the suggested leftover meal by adding mangos and wrapping in spring roll wrappers.

Slow Cooker Vegetable Soup
Lunch Ideas Chicken vegetable crockpot soup #paleo

This soup was really yummy and very hearty. I can't wait to make this again in the Fall.

Salmon Teriyaki Bowl
Salmon Teriyaki Bowl

Not only was this a delicious meal, it also tasted 'clean' and healthy.

Kale Meatballs
I served these with roasted sweet potatoes, carrots, broccoli and a green salad.
Kale Meatballs

And for dessert.... these are wonderful!! Not only tasty, they are also flour free, dairy free, and egg free!

Brownies
Healthy brownies- These are good!

OK, go try something new, and tell me what you think when you do!

Happy Cooking!

Eunora


Friday, April 27, 2012

What's For Dinner?


From my experience, and from talking with friends,
The hardest part about cooking is planning the menu.

Trying to schedule new, healthy, home-cooked meals takes time.
So, I thought that I would start to post my weekly menu.
Maybe these ideas will get your creative juices flowing
And if you don't already have a recipe for something I suggest,
Try finding one on pinterest or simply google it, there's so much out there!
Happy menu planning, cooking, and the best part, eating!

Monday- Tri-Tip, Green Salad, Roasted Potatoes and Carrots
Tuesday- Tri-Tip Tacos, (cilantro, slaw, quacamole, salsa), rice
Wednesday- Stir- Fry (Chicken, bok choy, onions, broccoli, peppers, egg, asian noodles).
Thursday- Pot Roast Meatloaf, Quinoa, Coleslaw
Friday-  Stuffed Baked Potatoes, Caesar Salad

Happy Cooking,
Eunora

Friday, April 20, 2012

What's For Dinner?

From my experience, and from talking with friends,
The hardest part about cooking is planning the menu.
Trying to schedule new, healthy, home-cooked meals takes time.
So, I thought that I would start to post my weekly menu.
Maybe these ideas will get your creative juices flowing
And if you don't already have a recipe for something I suggest,
Try finding one on pinterest or simply google it, there's so much out there!
Happy menu planning, cooking, and the best part, eating!

Monday- Raclette: shrimp, linguica, onions, mushrooms, zucchini, peppers



Tuesday- Taco Salad: lettuce, ground beef, black beans, olives, cheese, salsa



Wednesday- Chicken Tikka Masala, Rice and Quinoa



Thursday- Home made Pizza: rosemary and potatoes with provolone, linguica, olives, and mushrooms



Friday- Pesto Pasta with Bacon and Chicken, Caesar Salad


Happy Cooking,

Eunora

Friday, March 23, 2012

What's For Dinner?

From my experience, and from talking with friends,
The hardest part about cooking is planning the menu.
Trying to schedule new, healthy, home-cooked meals takes time.
So, I thought that I would start to post my weekly menu.
Maybe these ideas will get your creative juices flowing
And if you don't already have a recipe for something I suggest,
Try finding one on pinterest or simply google it, there's so much out there!
Happy menu planning, cooking, and the best part, eating!




Tuesday- Carne Asada Tacos, Beans and Rice


















Wednesday- Coconut Chicken Nuggets, Cole Slaw, Sauteed Zucchini and Mushrooms



Thursday- Breakfast Burritos- black beans, eggs, sausage, salsa)
Friday- Chicken, Quinoa, Roasted Parsnip, Broccoli, and Asparagus

Happy Cooking!

Eunora

Friday, March 2, 2012

What's For Dinner?

From my experience, and from talking with friends,
The hardest part about cooking is planning the menu.
Trying to schedule new, healthy, home-cooked meals takes time.
So, I thought that I would start to post my weekly menu.
Maybe these ideas will get your creative juices flowing
And if you don't already have a recipe for something I suggest,
Try finding one on pinterest or simply google it, there's so much out there!
Happy menu planning, cooking, and the best part, eating!

Monday- Quinoa Salad and Flank Marinated Steak Strips






Wednesday- Chili Dogs
Thursday- Quinoa and Black Bean Burritos
Friday- Orange Chicken, Rice, Asparagus



Happy Cooking,

Eunora



Friday, February 24, 2012

What's For Dinner?

From my experience, and from talking with friends,
The hardest part about cooking is planning the menu.
Trying to schedule new, healthy, home-cooked meals takes time.
So, I thought that I would start to post my weekly menu.
Maybe these ideas will get your creative juices flowing
And if you don't already have a recipe for something I suggest,
Try finding one on pinterest or simply google it, there's so much out there!
Happy menu planning, cooking, and the best part, eating!

Monday- Delicata Squash Soup with Wild Rice and French Rolls
Tuesday- Chicken with Mole Sauce, Mexican Rice, Chips and Guacamole
Wednesday- Breakfast dinner (scrambled eggs, fried potatoes, bacon, and buttermilk
biscuits).
Thursday- Italian Soup (Italian sausage, potatoes, carrots, celery, onions, cauliflower,
spinach, Great Northern beans, macaroni noodles) and rolls
Friday- Bacon-Wrapped Cod, Rice Blend, Asparagus

Happy Cooking!

Eunora

Friday, February 17, 2012

What's For Dinner?

From my experience, and from talking with friends,
The hardest part about cooking is planning the menu.
Trying to schedule new, healthy, home-cooked meals takes time.
So, I thought that I would start to post my weekly menu.
Maybe these ideas will get your creative juices flowing
And if you don't already have a recipe for something I suggest,
Try finding one on pinterest or simply google it, there's so much out there!
Happy menu planning, cooking, and the best part, eating!

Monday- Chicken Tikka Masala, Rice, Naan






Wednesday- Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Thursday- Tomato Basil Soup and Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
Friday- Spaghetti Bolognese

Enjoy!

Eunora

Friday, February 3, 2012

What's For Dinner?

From my experience, and from talking with friends,
The hardest part about cooking is planning the menu.
Trying to schedule new, healthy, home-cooked meals takes time.
So, I thought that I would start to post my weekly menu.
Maybe these ideas will get your creative juices flowing
And if you don't already have a recipe for something I suggest,
Try finding one on pinterest or simply google it, there's so much out there!
Happy menu planning, cooking, and the best part, eating!

Monday-
Roasted Chicken, Roasted Vegetables (potatoes, carrots, parsnip)
Tuesday- Nachos: tortilla chips, cheddar, olives, green onions, bell peppers, pinto & black beans, lettuce, guacamole, sour cream
Wednesday- Chicken Cordon Bleu Schnitzle, sliced raw vegetables
Thursday- Cauliflower Cheese Soup
Friday- Homemade Pizza

Happy Cooking,

Eunora

Friday, January 27, 2012

What's For Dinner?

From my experience, and from talking with friends,
The hardest part about cooking is planning the menu.
Trying to schedule new, healthy, home-cooked meals takes time.
So, I thought that I would start to post my weekly menu.
Maybe these ideas will get your creative juices flowing
And if you don't already have a recipe for something I suggest,
Try finding one on pinterest or simply google it, there's so much out there!
Happy menu planning, cooking, and the best part, eating!

Monday- Zucchini Cabonara
Tuesday- Salmon Chow Mein
Wednesday- Omelettes and Green Smoothies
Thursday- Pea and Mint Soup and Green Salad
Friday- Chicken with Bacon and Pine Nuts, Mashed Potatoes, Green Beans

Happy Cooking,

Eunora

Friday, January 13, 2012

What's For Dinner?

From my experience, and from talking with friends,
The hardest part about cooking is planning the menu.
Trying to schedule new, healthy, home-cooked meals takes time.
So, I thought that I would start to post my weekly menu.
Maybe these ideas will get your creative juices flowing
And if you don't already have a recipe for something I suggest,
Try finding one on pinterest or simply google it, there's so much out there!
Happy menu planning, cooking, and the best part, eating!

Monday- Spring Rolls- Edamame- Won Ton Soup
Wednesday- Monte Cristo Sandwiches- Fresh fruit
Thursday- Potato Leek Soup
Friday- Gnocchi with Alfrado Sauce and Bacon

Happy Cooking!

Eunora

Friday, January 6, 2012

What's For Dinner?

From my experience, and from talking with friends,
The hardest part about cooking is planning the menu.
Trying to schedule new, healthy, home-cooked meals takes time.
So, I thought that I would start to post my weekly menu.
Maybe these ideas will get your creative juices flowing
And if you don't already have a recipe for something I suggest,
Try finding one on pinterest or simply google it, there's so much out there!
Happy menu planning, cooking, and the best part, eating!

Monday- Taco Salad
Tuesday- Chicken Tikka Masala- Rice- Naan
Wednesday- Lentil/Spinach Soup
Thursday- Meatballs and Pasta- Green Salad
Friday- Beef Stew with Dumplings

Eunora

Wednesday, December 14, 2011

Crepes Crepes Crepes!




I love crepes!
I love them because I grew up with my dad making them for special occasions.
I love them because they look pretty on a plate.
I love them because they are yum, yum, yummy!!!

I shared recently about a girls' night out I had.
We went out for dessert and had dessert crepes! Oh boy!
So, I thought I would share the recipe I have used for years,
Along with some of the fillings I love to use.

Crepes-
1 cup milk
1 cup flour
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 Tablespoons melted butter
2 eggs, beaten well

Beat all ingredients together. Heat skillet. Spray with non-stick spray. Pour about 1/3 of a cup of batter into pan and swirl pan to make a large, thin pancake. Cook on both sides.

Fillings-
Oh the possibilities! Here are my favorites:
fresh fruit and yogurt
bananas and nutella
cream cheese and strawberry compote
bananas and orange sauce

Sauces-
Orange sauce-
simply combine one part orange juice, one part butter, and one part sugar in a sauce pan. Heat until well combined. Pour some of this sauce on a crepe, roll, and then pour more on top. Eat this kind with a spoon so you can drink in all that goodness!

Strawberry compote-
I just place some of my frozen summer strawberries in a saucepan, add a little water, corn starch and sugar. As it cooks, I smash some of the berries and whalla! a filling and topping! You can use this same technique with many other berries (blueberries, raspberries etc.)

Assembly-
When I make multiple fillings, I like to roll my crepes differently to tell them apart. For the banana and nutella, I spread the nutella on the crepe, placed sliced bananas on 1/4 of the crepe then folded it in half and then half again. For the cream cheese/ strawberry compote, I folded it like a burrito. Then for the orange sauce, I simply roll into a log shape.

I hope you all go try these now. And when you do, come back and tell me about it, and how you now have a new addiction! =)

Happy Cooking,

Eunora