tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9691828667229087252024-03-12T16:45:54.064-07:00Drizzle of SunshineFood. Fitness (sometimes). Happy topics.Joannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729108685546119475noreply@blogger.comBlogger254125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-969182866722908725.post-68854499575453585002015-08-07T22:05:00.001-07:002015-08-07T22:05:29.728-07:00Why Breastfeeding Didn't Work For Me* I'm writing this in hopes that it will <i><b>help a mommy in need</b></i>. This is for you, the mom who is up at<br />
2 am and 4 am and 6 am racked with<b> guilt and frustration over feeding your baby.</b> You, my friend, are not alone.<br />
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First off, let's get one thing straight, <b>I am not anti-breastfeeding</b> and would never encourage or discourage a mother from breastfeeding, pumping, or formula feeding. I am 100% in favor of <u><b>supporting moms</b></u> by advising them to do what they feel is <b>best for their baby/family.</b> I am no expert in any of these things and only know what is best for me.<br />
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I feel all kinds of emotions writing this because this topic brings me so much anxiety and guilt. I was on Instagram today and saw that it is <b>National Breastfeeding Week.</b> So many pictures of happy mothers breastfeeding their little babies and toddlers alike. <b>Waves of guilt washing over me </b>as I scrolled through these pictures. I know that's not the intention of these posts as they are meant to support struggling breastfeeders and serve to advocate "Breast is Best" but I can't help but feel unsupported in my own personal journey.<br />
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Many of these posts were filled with commenters who "didn't understand why women wouldn't want what's best for their babies" and who think "mom's who don't breastfeed are selfish." There are full on <b>comment wars </b>about this. I even saw one war where a mom admitted that breastfeeding felt animalistic to her and how she couldn't bring herself to do it. She was bashed by other mothers who called her a selfish person and a bad mother. Later the mother further admitted that she was sexually abused and she didn't see her breasts as being a source of nourishment for her child but rather a source of mental and physical pain. <b>How horrible!!</b> How horrible that she was made to feel so guilty for her personal decision.<br />
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Later on Instagram I saw another hashtag that took me down a rabbit hole of positivity. <b>#stopmomwars #stopmommywars </b></div>
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All these mothers vowing not to judge other mothers. All these mothers who are proud breastfeeders, pumpers, and formula feeders that <b>vow all their support</b> to all moms, regardless of how they chose to feed their babes. All these mothers who want to be <b><u>uplifting</u></b> to other moms instead of slamming them down. <b><i>What a breath of fresh air. </i></b>I am not alone after all.<br />
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I am sitting her next to my one month old daughter<b> trying to stand firm in my decision</b> to quit pumping and switch entirely to formula, but it just is't that easy. When she was born, I was hopeful that breastfeeding would go so much more smoothly than <a href="http://drizzleofsunshine.blogspot.com/2015/03/my-anxiety-about-post-partum-depression.html#comment-form">the first time</a>, but it wasn't. By the second night in the hospital, my nipples were so raw that all the nurses kept questioning my daughter's latch and my hold. They kept a close eye on my feedings and saw that my daughter was latching properly and my hold was fine but they couldn't figure out why I was being torn up so badly. Finally, the lactation consultant came and immediately saw that <b>I had "ultra-sensitive" nipples</b> coupled with a baby that was a powerful sucker. I was <b>writhing in pain</b> before, during, and after every feeding. I cried every time my baby cried because <b>I didn't want to feed her.</b> It was just too painful. The LC said she could see how this was hurting me both mentally and physically and quickly ordered me a pump and recommended that <b>I pump until my nipples healed</b>. I was told to pump every 2 hours, even at night to keep up with the feedings. Although this felt better, I hated being attached to the pump every 2 hours. <b>All I wanted was to hold my baby and enjoy her</b>, something that I didn't do for months with my son because of this same struggle. I was in my head too much and that made me feel so guilty, so selfish, so so guilty. <b>This shouldn't be about ME!</b> It was happening again....the anxiety.... <b>the depression</b>.<br />
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When we got home, we were supplementing a little bit but I was mostly pumping. And that's what it felt like... <b>my day was mostly pumping</b>. Visitors came and I excused myself every 2 hours to pump. They all enjoyed my baby while I was sitting with my whirling milk machine. At night I woke up to my silent Fitbit alarm and pumped while everyone slept soundly. Instead of playing with my toddler or holding my daughter,<b> I was pumping and washing parts and pumping.</b> I wished so badly I could cut out the middle man (aka my pump) and just let her latch and hold her and bond with her and believe me, I kept trying to breastfeed, but my damn sensitive nipples just yelled at me to stop so <b>I would pump again and again and again</b>. I just couldn't do it anymore. <b>I gave up</b>. I wanted my sanity back.<br />
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Giving up brought me <b><u>no solace.</u></b> It only brought me more guilt and more anxiety of being judged. <b><i><u>Dammit, Joanna! What the hell do you want to do then? </u></i></b>I'm still trying to figure it all out. One thing is for sure, I just want to enjoy my family. This is the only glimmer of confidence I have in my decision to formula feed. I could just make a bottle, hold my little girl in my arms, hold her tightly in hopes she thinks that nipple is mine, and move on with my life and enjoy my family. <b>Formula feeding released me from my physical pain and my pump</b> and allowed me to go out for more than 2 hours at a time and enjoy spending time with my family. It allowed my husband to wake up for nighttime feedings while I catch up on sleep. It allowed a family member to feed her while I played Legos with my son. <b>It allowed me to be a better mom. </b><br />
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Hopefully <b>one day I will feel completely confident </b>with my decision to formula feed. Until then, I hope that no one asks me about it and I will pray that <b>no one will judge me harshly </b>for what I decided and most importantly... I will try my best to stop giving a flying f*ck about what others think about <u style="font-weight: bold;">what's best for me and my family.</u><br />
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Joannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729108685546119475noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-969182866722908725.post-31223609441961531092015-07-20T19:17:00.000-07:002015-07-20T19:17:48.898-07:00Going into Labor with a Scheduled C-Section"Make plans and God laughs."<br />
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With pregnancy #1, I had my birth plan ready and printed. I wanted to labor, stay strong, blah blah blah, and ended up with <b>an <a href="http://drizzleofsunshine.blogspot.com/2012/11/joaquins-birth-story.html">emergency C-section</a>.</b> With pregnancy #2, I stressed all 9 months about whether or not to have a VBAC (Vaginal birth after cesarean) or go with a planned C-section. A few weeks before the big day, I decided on the planned C-section...<i><b>nope, not gonna happen, Joanna!</b></i> I went into labor a week before the scheduled C-section. <b>God Laughed, I laughed, </b>and I live to tell the tale.<br />
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<b><i><u>Sunday, July 12</u></i></b><br />
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<i>8:30pm- </i><br />
I was having braxton hicks all week so I thought nothing of it. They were stronger but I refused to believe they were labor pains and swatted away my husband as he begged for us to go in to be checked. I timed them and even though I was e<i>ight minutes apart, then seven, then six</i>, I still didn't want to believe it because this time I was scheduled for a C-section. <b>I'm stubborn like that. </b><br />
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<i>11:00pm-</i><br />
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<i>"Fine, call your parents to watch Joaquin." </i>I threw in the towel and agreed to go get checked. I was sure they'd turn me away. Before we left, we said Good night to our 2 year old Joaquin and oddly enough, Joaquin grew up right before our eyes. It was the sweetest thing to see and feel before we left. While I was writhing in pain, he came over to me and said <i style="font-weight: bold;">"It's ok, Mama. Don't Cry. It's ok."</i> He pretended to wipe tears from my eyes and gave me kisses on my hand. He also decided that night was the night to <i>go pee pee on the potty</i>. It was like he knew something big was about to happen.<br />
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<i>12:00-</i><br />
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We got admitted right away, no questions asked. Last time, they turned me away and told me to walk around a bit so I was pleasantly surprised when they whisked me into a room. The doctor came in, checked me and declared <i style="font-weight: bold;">"We are having a birthday party tonight! You are 5 cm!"</i> It was a whirlwind of emotions because <b>I was ready, but I wasn't ready ready. </b> I still had laundry to do and groceries to buy! They did give me one more chance to decide on a VBAC or C-section and I decided to stay with the C-section. The nurse told me it was actually better that I went into labor because the baby was getting the chemical reactions and signs that it was time to get out! Baby wouldn't have gotten that with a scheduled C-section. This calmed my worried head just a tad.<br />
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<i>1:00-</i><br />
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The whole process happened so quickly! I was wheeled off into the OR, the epidural was put in (OUCH!), and the curtain went up. It was <b>bizarre </b>this time because I was completely coherent. Last time I was so hopped up on pain meds that I couldn't think straight. I was happy to be <i>all there</i> but I felt every tug and pull which was extremely uncomfortable. My husband was there with me the whole time and I remember being so scared. I kept begging him to keep close. I could've sworn the doctor cracked a rib or two.<br />
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We did the annoying thing again and <b>didn't find out the sex of the baby</b>. It's annoying to everyone else because everyone wants to know!! They can't stand the surprise. Everyone and their mama's mama had strong feelings that this baby was going to be a boy. They said I was pointy, carrying like a basketball, and in my mom's words "<i><b>if it were girl, you would be pretty during your pregnancy." </b></i>Thanks mom. We were again, so excited to hear those words from the doctor with the sounds of our baby crying in the background.<br />
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<i>1:42 am</i><br />
<b><i><u>It's a GIRL!!! </u></i></b><br />
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I cried, then laughed, then got knocked out by the pain meds. It wasn't even gradual. The pain meds hit me like a train and I was in and out of consciousness as Sergio tried to put our sweet baby next to my face.<br />
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<i>"Hi, Olivia. It's mommy!"</i><br />
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I couldn't be happier that it's a girl. She is so sweet and precious and<b> those dresses are too damn cute. </b>I am 1-week post-partum and doing really well both physically and emotionally. Olivia is also doing great, eating and pooping a lot!! Daddy is incredibly helpful and sweet and Joaquin wants very little to do with Olivia. He is intrigued by this new housemate but feels it's best to keep some distance for awhile. More on recovery, adjusting, and daily life to come. Thanks for reading all my ramblings!Joannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729108685546119475noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-969182866722908725.post-24569212299326947702015-03-04T19:35:00.000-08:002015-03-04T19:35:51.458-08:00My Anxiety About Post-Partum Depression I cried a bit when I found out I was pregnant again. Not because I was sad but because I was scared. In my eyes, I had such a traumatic experience with my delivery and recovering from Baby #1. I read my <a href="http://drizzleofsunshine.blogspot.com/2012/11/joaquins-birth-story.html">Birth story</a> before I wrote this and I'm shocked at how much I actually forgot. What is still fresh in my mind is the C-Section, problems with breastfeeding, my scar ripping open a few days in, and the emotional struggle of the every day life with a newborn. This is what I held on to. Not the beautiful moment they announced we were having a boy or the waves of happy family and friends coming to visit, but my emotional breakdown.<br />
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Sleep deprivation is a bitch but I know what I felt was much more than that. I believe it was more than baby blues because it got so bad that it almost ruined my marriage. My hormonal rages and the need to control everything and judge my husband's every move lead to 2 years of hell. I didn't want my family near me and I withdrew from friends because "no one understood." The holidays followed the birth of Joaquin and I hated every moment, every party, every day I had to step out of the house. I said what I felt like I was supposed to say to everyone around me. <i>I'm so in love with my new son. I love every moment. It's so amazing. I am so happy. </i>It was all so confusing.<br />
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And then there was breastfeeding. The pain. Oh the PAIN! The struggle. The feeling of having to do it outside of my home. The anxiety of that new lifestyle change. There was no bonding. There was no joy. What the hell was wrong with me? The thought of giving Joaquin formula made me feel like the worst mom in the world. To make matters worse... I was a cow. I could pump 10 ounces in a 15 minute pump session. It was insane. I was able to stock so much but then, I got thrush and the doctor ordered me to throw that golden liquid in the trash. That's when I threw in the towel.<br />
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But, I still had this baby. This new life to take care of for the rest of MY life. It took me a very long time to wrap my brain about that. I am just now feeling comfortable as a mom. That's all thanks to my supportive husband and family and all of the moms, new and old, who told me their struggles and didn't lie to me and tell me that motherhood is all french fries and chocolate.<br />
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That's my favorite, when moms tell me that they hated breastfeeding too or when they tell me they ate out almost every day this week because they were too tired to cook or that they accidentally dropped their baby from the couch or that they failed at something. Sounds cynical that THAT is my favorite but it helps me see that I'm not alone. I'm not crazy...well...that's still debatable, I guess.<br />
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So, what do I do now? I plan. I prep. I get ready for my hormonal battle once again. I'll be talking about what I'm doing now and what I plan to do then on my next post. Have a great rest of the week everyone!Joannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729108685546119475noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-969182866722908725.post-40612211368519511382015-02-26T20:57:00.003-08:002015-02-26T20:57:32.235-08:00Baby Sunshine #2 I'm pregnant with baby number two! This news is both exciting and utterly terrifying. For awhile there I was content with having just the one. However, there were times I felt so guilty that Joaquin wouldn't have a sibling to grow up with. I am very close to my brother and couldn't imagine my life without him.... if you would've asked me 20 years ago I would've said I hated him but I think that's normal of a sister brother relationship, right? Nonetheless, Hubby convinced me to have another so here I am, 4 months pregnant with an already round and obvious baby bump.<br />
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<b style="background-color: white; color: #404040; font-family: inherit; line-height: 22px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">How far along:</b><span style="background-color: white; color: #404040; font-family: inherit; line-height: 22px;"> 19 weeks</span><b style="font-family: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Gender: </b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Don't know and </span>won't<span style="font-family: inherit;"> be finding out....again</span><br /><b style="font-family: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Weight gain: </b><span style="font-family: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Not sure yet but at the end of my first trimester, doc said I lost one pound. Whoo hoo!</span><br /><b style="font-family: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Maternity clothes:</b><span style="font-family: inherit;"> Yes and yes! I am all about the Maternity clothes. I LOVE my Jessica Simpson jeans at the moment. </span><br /><b style="font-family: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Sleep:</b><span style="font-family: inherit;"> Sleep is finally improving a tad. For weeks, I woke up around 3 in the morning for no reason at all. I didn't have to pee, I didn't feel a kick, nothing! I was just wide away for a while. Annoying. </span><br /><b style="font-family: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Best moment this month: </b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Going to my big ultrasound to see the baby. </span><br /><b style="font-family: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Worst moment this month: </b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Going to my big ultrasound to see the baby but baby wasn't cooperating and they couldn't take the right pictures. ::le sigh:: On the bright side, I might have to go back to try again which means I get to see baby again!</span><br /><b style="font-family: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Miss anything:</b><span style="font-family: inherit;"> Sushi</span><br /><b style="font-family: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Movement: </b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Finally started feeling movement this week and it's been amazing. I love feeling the flutters and little love kicks. </span><br /><b style="font-family: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Cravings: </b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Onion rings, oranges, cheeseburgers. </span><br /><b style="color: #404040; font-family: inherit; line-height: 22px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Looking fo</b><b style="color: #404040; font-family: inherit; line-height: 22px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">rward to: </b><span style="color: #404040; font-family: inherit; line-height: 22px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Getting a good picture of baby.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #404040;"><span style="line-height: 22px;">My next post will be about my concerns with Baby #2 on the way. I have a lot of anxiety about postpartum depression and reliving the hard times I had the first time around. See you next time, friends!</span></span><br />
<br />Joannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729108685546119475noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-969182866722908725.post-81229415848927749982014-09-04T10:51:00.000-07:002014-09-04T10:51:17.736-07:00August 2014 FavoritesI am a sucker for these types of posts and YouTube videos. I love seeing what other people love and what works for them. Read: I'm nosy. So, consider this an attempt at showing you the sh*t that I love on a monthly basis...<i>that's the point, right? </i><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><u>Food</u></i></span><br />
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1. <a href="http://stumptowncoffee.com/">Stumptown Coffee Roasters</a><br />
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Be still, my coffee lovin' heart. This coffee is top notch and I've been enjoying a cup every morning via the bag of grounds that my good friend Dez brought down from Portland. The blend called "Hair Bender" is sweet enough to tickle your tongue just so and smooth enough to make your body sigh in submission. That's what I literally feel every morning. It's glorious. Good news for all you So Cal readers...there's one in DTLA!<br />
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2. <u>Pixie Donuts in Claremont, CA</u></div>
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Gone are the ho hum mornings with this fantastic duo. Stumptown coffee and Pixie donuts.... Breakfast. Is. Ama-zing. I love these donuts because they are <i>better</i> that the regular coffee shop donuts even though they are technically just that. The chocolate is deeper and probably real and their batter is even fluffier and tastier somehow. Oh, and they have cronuts. Cronuts are hybrid donut/croissants and are something to experience in your lifetime. Think glazed croissants. </div>
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<i><u><span style="font-size: large;">Beauty</span></u></i><br />
<i><u><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></u></i>3. <a href="http://www.origins.com/products/8781/Skincare/Star-Collection/Dr-Andrew-Weil-for-Origins/index.tmpl">Origins Mega-Bright Skincare line</a><br />
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This skincare line pops into my brain as my number one beauty product because it blows my mind that something finally works for my acne scars. My skincare type is combo to oily, scars easily, and hormonal breakouts...I sound like a hormonal teenager. Sucks. I've dealt with it all my life and struggled with painfully embarrassing acne and the scars that it left on my face and on my self-esteem. When my pimples heal, they leave dark spots that last for years. This skincare line has erased them almost completely. I will be repurchasing this <i>for sure</i>.<br />
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<a data-ved="0CAUQjRw" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&docid=3NaUJcRSVFjZ-M&tbnid=7uWAbkJCbYhAQM:&ved=0CAUQjRw&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.glamasia.com%2F2011%2F12%2F22%2Fbeauty-goodies-of-2012%2F2%2F&ei=uMEHVLatKsi7ogT0mYDgDA&bvm=bv.74649129,d.cGU&psig=AFQjCNH7Lx0-toZCvqK2vrSjUgZcuK2kaw&ust=1409880863191087" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img src="http://www.glamasia.com/files/2011/12/DrWeil_Mega-Bright_Family_Asia1.jpg" height="305" id="irc_mi" style="-webkit-background-size: 21px; -webkit-box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.65098) 0px 5px 35px; background-color: white; background-image: linear-gradient(45deg, rgb(239, 239, 239) 25%, transparent 25%, transparent 75%, rgb(239, 239, 239) 75%, rgb(239, 239, 239)), linear-gradient(45deg, rgb(239, 239, 239) 25%, transparent 25%, transparent 75%, rgb(239, 239, 239) 75%, rgb(239, 239, 239)); background-position: 0px 0px, 10px 10px; background-size: 21px; border: 0px currentColor; box-shadow: 0px 5px 35px rgba(0,0,0,0.65098); margin-top: 37px;" width="400" /></a></div>
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4. Neutrogena Makeup Primer<br />
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I'm DONEZO with So Cal's 90 degree weather. That, along with a classroom with crappy air conditioning and with a schedule that has me moving fast and furiously makes for a slick face. No matter what I do, I'm stuck with oily skin and makeup that runs off my face before the first school bell rings. This is a game changer and I'm glad I found it. My makeup lasts a bit longer and I'm not having to blot my t-zone as much. I also love that it doesn't break the bank.<br />
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<a data-ved="0CAUQjRw" href="http://www.neutrogena.com/product/shine+control+primer.do" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; outline: rgb(0, 0, 0); text-align: center;"><img src="http://images.neutrogena.com/images/products_store/en_us/product_images/6843251_320x385.jpg" height="400" id="irc_mi" style="-webkit-background-size: 21px; -webkit-box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.65098) 0px 5px 35px; background-color: white; background-image: linear-gradient(45deg, rgb(239, 239, 239) 25%, transparent 25%, transparent 75%, rgb(239, 239, 239) 75%, rgb(239, 239, 239)), linear-gradient(45deg, rgb(239, 239, 239) 25%, transparent 25%, transparent 75%, rgb(239, 239, 239) 75%, rgb(239, 239, 239)); background-position: 0px 0px, 10px 10px; background-size: 21px; border: 0px currentColor; box-shadow: 0px 5px 35px rgba(0,0,0,0.65098); margin-top: 36px;" width="331" /></a></div>
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<h2>
<u><i style="font-weight: normal;">Internet Things</i></u></h2>
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5. Big Block Sing Song. Big Block Sing Song. Big Block Sing Song. </div>
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I don't know if this should make the list because I borderline hate it. Joaquin, on the other hand, oh he is obsessed with this. In his defense, these short clip music videos are colorful, simple, and uber-catchy. I have to admit that I have my favorites but when you hear these on repeat all month you want to sue the creators for harassment. When I say harassment I mean these songs will be annoyingly stuck in your head for the next 10 years. </div>
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6. <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/">Teachers Pay Teachers</a></div>
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Now that I'm back in elementary, I am constantly on the lookout for cute things to motivate my little first graders and to jazz up my room. Teachers Pay Teachers has EVERYTHING you can imagine. If you want a worksheet on verbs, they have millions of files ready for your downloading pleasure. You want a PPT on the life and times of Abraham Lincoln, someone has spent countless hours making that already. It's wonderful. Some files are free and some cost a measly $3.00. Score one for the teacher budget!</div>
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I hope you enjoyed my monthly favorites. Please tell me one of your favs of the month! I'd love to know!</div>
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Joannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729108685546119475noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-969182866722908725.post-55778270615391669242014-09-01T23:17:00.001-07:002014-09-01T23:17:54.558-07:00Finding BalanceWell, well, well, look what the cat dragged in.<br />
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It's me, the girl who keeps one toe in the blogging world. I'm here to update and boy, oh boy are there updates.<br />
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First off, my move to a new house and new city is complete. I LOVE our new home and I'm trying to keep a smile on my face in the midst of all the unexpected home repairs. <i>Oh, hello Mr. Tree Roots growing into our pipes and pushing the poop back up the toilets. </i>All the matters is that we have furniture to sit on, food to eat, and a clean sewage pipe. We will be here for a very long time so what's the rush right?<br />
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Back to School mode is in full effect and I am EXHAUSTED! I love my class and my first grade team, I like my new school, but I loath the workload. I use up every bit of my energy source to power through my day. I forget to pee, I barely eat, and the backs of my feet our rubbed to the bone from being on my feet all day. Yup, sound like a first grade teacher to me. As delusional as it sounds, I am truly enjoying myself and I feel like I made the right decision going back to elementary. Once I get my bladder trained and my paperwork organized, it'll be a breeze. On the bright side, I've lost weight from the moving around so much! YAY, me!</div>
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Look! I've already gotten gifts from my little bees. Toothache city! So sweet.</div>
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I'll tell you what's not sweet.... the terrible twos. My little man is throwin' tantrums left and right! I try to ignore him but his screaming is quite the earache. Nonetheless, the good still outweigh the bad and I'm enjoying life with my tantrum king. He is a smarty-pants with a growing vocabulary. He can communicate his wants and needs. He can recite a few numbers and letters, and his face is getting cuter everyday. I am totally smitten. </div>
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He is slowly starting to favor daddy and I'm not complaining one bit. I've been able to get more done and I am grateful for the short breaks!</div>
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Lastly, I got myself a new laptop! It's so purdy! I'm hoping I can blog from time to time but we will see. I did a gut check and I re-prioritized my life. To keep myself sane, I've decided that my main goals right now is to be a better wife, a loving and present mother, a hardworking teacher, and a good Christian woman. All of the "stuff" in my day needs to somehow cultivate those goals or it gets the boot. I'm trying hard to let go of Instagram and Pinterest, but those things ease my mind when I need a break. That's what I keep telling myself anyway. I'm not quite sure where blogging fits into that but I hope to work it back into my juggling act. Until then, thanks for reading my update. I'll be back soon. </div>
<br />Joannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729108685546119475noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-969182866722908725.post-2591404165242340452014-05-21T15:54:00.002-07:002014-05-21T15:54:19.327-07:00Drizzles of Sunshine: Out of My Mind1. Oh where, oh where has my little blog gone? Oh where, oh where can it be? On the back burner, per usual. I've been considering deleting the whole thing but something keeps pulling me back. Maybe it's the fact that I have so many thoughts that if I don't write it down somewhere, my brain might explode into smithereens. <br />
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2. In an attempt to add more time to my schedule, I've deleted my Facebook. Oh Freedom! It feels really good to be out of <em>that </em>loop. <em>But what about keeping in touch with your family and friends?</em> The friends that are a mainstay text me on the regular. <em>But what about keeping up to date with current gossip news and yadda yadda yadda?</em> I really miss talking to friends and family on the phone or better yet, in person. I miss lunch dates and snail mail. Face to face and pen to paper communication is a dying art form and I for one would like to revive it. <br />
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3. So, we are in escrow. We purchased a house. I can't and wont let myself get excited until the keys are in my purse. I know escrow can be sticky and tricky so I'm waiting to pop the cork. In the meantime, I'm sitting fetal position in my living room trying to wrap my brain around packing up 10 years of living in a townhome. Where do I even begin? I'm going to take a nap. <br />
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4. During the day, I'm also in said fetal position trying to wrap my brain around packing up my classroom. Moving to a new city, moving to a new school.... I just can't handle. This is the way my brain processes. Instead of relishing the idea of new beginnings, I only see the obstacles. I could never run hurdles. I would be the guy knocking them over one by one instead of focusing on the finish line. Support from the crowd needed. <br />
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5. I am handling all this with snacks. I lost 5 pounds and then I baked brownies to celebrate. I'm ok with that. Snacks are good. Snacks are safe. Joannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729108685546119475noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-969182866722908725.post-73335921832222247232014-03-27T12:23:00.002-07:002014-05-21T15:09:28.352-07:00Drizzles of Sunshine: Changes1. Big news on the career front. I'm officially moving back to first grade! I couldn't be happier and I'm so excited for this move. For those of you who are new here, I have been a teacher for 8 years and have been bounced from first to high school to middle school, all thanks to the poor funding of our public school system. Happy to report that that is on the up and up and now I have the opportunity of going back to my one true love... First Grade. Now I must dig through my garage and find my flash cards and glitter. <br />
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2. Last week, I morphed into a pre-pubescent tweenager. I read Divergent. I have totally jumped on the Divergent train and have set up camp. I'm hooked. It's no surprise that I like my reading material to be easy, mindless, and not at all thought provoking. Why? Because I find reading as an escape, not as a way for me to build brain points. (I think I might've lost some friends by admitting this.) With that said, Divergent got the job done for me. It entertained me for 3 days. My personal best. I couldn't put it down. I have no idea WHY my mind was so wrapped up in this but I fully enjoyed my brain vacation. <br />
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Now I really want to watch the movie because I'm interested in how they adapted it for the big screen and because the actors are GORGEOUS. Holy musculos! Four, Eric, and even Tris. Googly-eyes worthy for sure. <br />
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3. Joaquin is now fully walking on his own. I am both excited and terrified. I refuse to use one of those <strike>dog</strike> kid leashes on him because I think that is just plain WRONG but I feel like there is going to come a time where I am going to wish I could like the <strike>dog</strike> kid leashes like when we are in a crowded amusement park and he is jetting away from mommy and daddy. It's very hard to hold hands with a toddler that doesn't want to hold your hand. Sounds easy but it is damn near impossible sometimes. <br />
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4. I just got news that we are going camping in Yosemite this summer. I am trying my hardest to suppress my anxiety. I just imagine me struggling to get Joaquin to sleep in a tent, families of bears eating our food while I freak out with Joaquin in my arms, oh and sharing a bathroom with hundreds of campers. There goes my inner tweenager again. Man, I'm such a wuss. Tips on camping with a baby much needed. Tips on camping<em> in general</em> much needed. <br />
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5. I am officially a college student again. I'm taking 2 online courses where I have to listen to 14 podcasts about Children's Literature. I'm ok with it except for the fact that the professor's voice and semi-British mono-tone voice makes me want to kill myself. I'm on podcast 2. Pray for me. Joannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729108685546119475noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-969182866722908725.post-50944544048348374942014-03-09T22:17:00.000-07:002014-03-10T11:43:18.759-07:00Teaching and EatingMy two passions.<br />
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The fuel to my soul. <br />
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Teaching and eating.<br />
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I wouldn't be who I am without these two things in my day. If you're new here, I am a middle school teacher. I also like to eat for pleasure as opposed to <em>just</em> for necessity. My ultimate dream job would be a food teacher but with elective classes on the chopping block (for shame!) I don't feel like that dream could be a reality right now. It'll have to wait. <br />
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So in the meantime, I find every opportunity to work food into my lessons. Language Arts Enrichment is the perfect place for that. We read awesome books and I find any mention of food and roll with it. <br />
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This month it is Maniac Magee by Jerry Spinelli. <br />
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I'll spare you the synopsis and steer you to where it mentions food. In the story, a popular food that the characters love is Zeps. In short, it's basically a sub sandwich. I rolled with it and transformed my classroom into a sandwich shop. I asked them all to bring in a sandwich ingredient and we built ourselves some stupendous subs. <br />
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My favorite part was naming our creations. I encouraged them to combine character names and important places with food names and they came up with creative labels. <br />
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Combo #1- Hamanda: ham, cheddar, lettuce and pickles.<br />
Named after Amanda, one of the main characters.<br />
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Combo #2- Gobbles knot: turkey, Monterey jack, lettuce, pickles<br />
Named after Cobbles knot, the town's impossible to untie knot.<br />
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Combo #3- Zepperoni: Pepperoni, mozzarella, Jalepenos<br />
Named after Zeps, the name of the sub sandwich in the story.<br />
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Combo #4- The Maniac :All and everything listed above<br />
Named after the main character, Maniac Magee.<br />
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So much fun!! The students enjoyed the lesson and I'm hoping they will always remember this fun activity and of course their amazing teacher. *wink*Joannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729108685546119475noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-969182866722908725.post-7926064866037961632014-02-27T18:32:00.001-08:002014-02-27T18:34:47.323-08:00Drizzles of Sunshine1. House hunting. Does it make you cringe like it does for me? I think I live in one of the most expensive states in the country which doesn't help my distaste for hunting. I just want something turn key ready, brand new, and next door to an A list celebrity. Is that too much to ask for?<br />
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2. I am addicted to Starbucks and I'm embarrassed about it. I used to think it was cute that they knew my name but now I feel like they think I'm a lazy bum that can't make her own damn coffee. But one thing's for sure, they still don't know how to spell my name right so that must mean I don't go there too too much, right? I'm safe for now. </div>
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3. I'm backed up with my magazine reading. They keep coming in the mail and I have no time to catch up. If I can't peruse through a magazine, what does this say about my time management skill? I miss you, magazines. </div>
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4. I've reached a dreaded phase in parenting: hitting. When Joaquin is mad he starts to hit me... in my face. I know this is caused by his inability to communicate his frustrations but what is a loving mother to do? Spank? Yell? Cry? So far I've just begged and pleaded with the kid. I know I have to nip it in the bud but is said bud too young? Must. Not. Google. Anymore... Advice appreciated. </div>
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5. I am proud to say I have dramatically cut down on carbs. It's been hard because rice has been such a staple in my existence but I've overcome the urge to eat it with everything. Sweet potatoes and cauliflower have set up shop in my fridge and I have never felt better. Now if I could only give up chocolate. </div>
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Joannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729108685546119475noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-969182866722908725.post-70325102014169444742014-02-20T18:15:00.001-08:002014-02-20T18:15:38.539-08:00Garlic Sriracha "Fried" ChickenI really wish I could take the heat of spicy foods. I try and try the spicy salsas and hot sauces but my tongue fails me each and every time. <strong>It's embarrassing</strong>. Tongue...you embarrass me. I can't seem to wrap my brain around the idea of people eating <strong>crazy hot shit like ghost peppers</strong>. I also can't fathom running a marathon but I guess people like torturing their bodies. I wonder if I would be less of a wimp if I train my tongue with spicy like a runner trains their legs for <strike>pain</strike> marathons. <em>Hmmm. </em><br />
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So, consider this <strong><em>recipe one</em></strong> of my training. I made this for my wonderful Mexican hubby who can eat wonderfully Mexican food with wonderfully spicy peppers. I hope Joaquin inherited daddy's ability to eat wonderfully spicy foods. <br />
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<em><u>Ingredients:</u></em></div>
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<em>2 lbs. chicken drumsticks</em></div>
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<em>1/3 cup Chili Garlic Sauce</em></div>
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<em>1/3 cup Greek yogurt</em></div>
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<em>1/3 cup mayonnaise </em></div>
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<em>1/3 cup olive oil</em></div>
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<em>salt</em></div>
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<em>pepper</em></div>
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<em>Panko Bread Crumbs</em></div>
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<em>1. Mix, chili, yogurt, mayo, oil, and seasonings in a bag.</em></div>
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<em>2. Add chicken and marinate for 1-8 hours. The longer the better. </em></div>
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<em>3. Coat with Panko Bread Crumbs.</em></div>
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<em>4. Bake at 350 for 1 hour.</em></div>
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Mission Complete!</div>
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The spice level on these bad boys are equivalent <strong>to a defective jalapeño</strong>. In other words, it's not that spicy. The mayo and yogurt really cut the heat. I guess I chickened out last minute and grabbed what I knew would hide the hotness. Next time I'll be daring and throw in the whole bottle. <strong><em>Next time. </em></strong></div>
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Joannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729108685546119475noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-969182866722908725.post-79908891054027877662014-02-12T17:50:00.003-08:002014-02-12T17:50:35.838-08:00January 2014 FavoritesMonth one down. It flew by and now we are on to the next. I feel like I didn't have many favorites this month because I feel like it went too too fast. Nonetheless, a few things still caught my attention.<br />
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1. <strong>HIMYM</strong><br />
I've been quite disappointed with this final season because I feel like they're dragging their feet. I like the episodes but not for the final season. They are entertaining but I wish they would keep on the path of <strong>meeting the mother</strong>. This last episode though....<em><strong> THAT</strong></em> makes my favorite for the month. Can we talk about the mother's rendition on <strong>La Vie En Rose</strong>? We bought my sister in law a ukulele because she fell in love with this rendition and I will ask her to replay that song for me at each meeting. I also put in my early birthday request for a ukulele and I hope to one day play this song as beautifully as this chick.<br />
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On that note, if you're a fan, have you heard of the theory that <strong>the mother dies in the end</strong>? I thought it was ridiculous until I really sat and thought about it. It's starting to sound pretty likely. What do you think?<br />
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2. <strong><a href="http://snapjudgment.org/">NPR's Snap Judgment Podcast</a></strong><br />
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<strong>OBSESSED. </strong>I feel like an old person listening to talk radio because I grew up thinking that all the hip young folk listen to catchy music on the radio. Then I grew up and discovered that a lot of <strong>music on the radio sucks</strong>. So,<em> hello talk radio.</em> This podcast is your afternoon story hour of real people recounting amazing things that have happened to them. In the background, music and sound effects couple the words <em>oh so perfectly.</em> I can't get enough. <br />
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3. <strong><u>Poutines</u></strong><br />
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I had the second Poutine in all my life. Then I thought, <em>"Wow. I'm way behind on my Poutine quota." </em>This stuff is magically delicious. If you don't know what Poutine is, it's basically a Canadian dish that layers <strong>French fries, gravy, and cheese curd</strong>s. You had me at French fries. As you read that, you either <strong>cringed or became curious</strong> and as I typed that I cringed a bit. It doesn't sound good but holy hell <strong>it IS good</strong>. <br />
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That's pretty much all that resonated with me in January.<strong> Let's hope for my exciting things in February!</strong><br />
Joannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729108685546119475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-969182866722908725.post-41328591889844352182014-02-11T15:18:00.000-08:002014-02-11T15:46:34.100-08:00Valentine's Day Dinner for TwoBaby is finally asleep upstairs. The lights are dim and the glow of the baby monitor adds a <strong>soft romantic touch</strong> to the atmosphere. The <strong>sweet sounds</strong> of Mickey Mouse Fun House plays in the background as <strong>we snuggle together</strong> on the couch. Then, <strong>it happens</strong>... we fall asleep. Yup, that's about how romantic it gets here, folks.<em> I'm tired</em>. He's tired. Snuggle on the couch means pass out on the couch. <br>
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As much as we try and <strong>plan date nights</strong> (<em>At least once a month, I used to say), </em>life gets busy and that romantic night we so <em>desperately</em> need gets pushed to the back burner. Babysitters are few and far between when grandparents aren't in reaching distance so we have to make do with what we have. <strong>My language of love</strong> is always to cook a comforting meal and my Valentine's Day meal is no exception. To my husband and me, a nice dinner at home is just as sweet sometimes. <br>
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<em><u>Valentine's Day Chicken Pot Pies</u></em><br>
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<em>Makes 4-Yay leftovers!</em><br>
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<em><u>Ingredients:</u></em><br>
<em>1 Stick of Butter</em><br>
<em>1 Small Onion; chopped</em><br>
<em>1/3 cup all-purpose flour</em><br>
<em>1 3/4 cup chicken broth</em><br>
<em>2/3 cup milk</em><br>
<em>1/2 teaspoon of salt</em><br>
<em>1/2 teaspoon of pepper</em><br>
<em>1 cup frozen corn</em><br>
<em>1 cup frozen carrots</em><br>
<em>1/4 cup parsley; chopped</em><br>
<em>1 pound cooked chicken; cubed (I used a rotisserie) </em><br>
<em>1 package of Crescent Seamless Dough</em><br>
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<em><u>Directions:</u></em><br>
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1. <strong>Preheat</strong> the oven to 425 degrees. <strong>Line</strong> a baking sheet with foil. <br>
2.<strong> Heat</strong> the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.<br>
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3. <strong>Add </strong>the onions and cook until soft.<strong> Add</strong> the flour and cook for 1 minute. Gently stir in the stock, milk, salt, and pepper and let the liquid thicken up. <br>
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4. <strong>Toss </strong>in the chicken, corn, carrots, and parsley. You can use the traditional peas but I hate peas and they will not set foot in this<strike> house </strike>mouth. <br>
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5. <strong>Roll out</strong> your pie crust and cut out adorable hearts. I die. It's too cute.<br>
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6. <strong>Divide</strong> the filling among four 1 1/2 cup ramekins and <strong>drape</strong> the dough over the tops. <strong>Seal</strong> by pressing gently on the sides of the ramekins and be sure to <strong>cut </strong>a few decorative air holes on the top. Don't forget our cute hearts. It's not Valentine's Day theme without the hearts, don't cha know. <strong>Brush</strong> the tops with a beaten egg to achieve that golden brown color. <br>
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7. <strong>Bake</strong> the potpies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 35-45 minutes or until crust is golden brown.<strong> Let</strong> stand for 15 minutes. De-vour.<br>
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I'm not sure if potpies are <strong>an aphrodisiac</strong> or how many romantic points it will give you but it sure is cute and delicious. And this is perfect if you're no longer into the crowded restaurants and over priced V-day meals. It's all about that warm fuzzy feeling...in your stomach and in your heart. Awwwww. </div>
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Joannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729108685546119475noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-969182866722908725.post-46074345028135431462014-02-03T17:53:00.000-08:002014-02-03T17:53:28.158-08:00My Paper ResolutionThis year, one of my New Year's Resolutions is to bring paper back. <strong>I'm bringing paper back.</strong> (Sing to the tune of <em>I'm Bringing Sexy Back.) </em>I've always been in love with pretty Thank You cards and Photo Cards with fancy fonts. And don't even get me started on <strong>funny and witty birthday cards</strong>. <br />
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My goal is to send <strong>more snail mail</strong> because I think it is an <strong>underrated art form.</strong> I LOVE getting a handwritten card or even a fancy photo card because it's not only cute as heck but it also breaks up the junk mail and bills you usually get in your mailbox. </div>
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Since I missed sending out my Christmas cards this holiday season...which technically was LAST year so this doesn't count as breaking my resolution, my plan is to send cards on another fun holiday. I love doing this because<strong> it's unexpected</strong> and no one will ever suspect that you are just very very late on your holiday cards. After we got married, I sent pretty <strong>New Year's cards</strong> to the fam, complete with our wedding photo. <u><strong>It was a HIT!</strong></u> When Joaquin was born, I send out his <strong>birth announcements as our Christmas card</strong> and everyone <em>swooned</em>. I felt like a sly little fox.</div>
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I've already stocked up on my cute pens, my Forever Stamps, and blank card sets and wrote down all of the birthdays I need to remember.<strong> I'm ready!</strong><br />
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<strong>The stationary gods were pleased</strong> by my offerings and I received an email from <strong><a href="http://www.tinyprints.com/">Tiny Prints</a></strong>. Perfect Timing! I couldn't resist their <a href="http://www.tinyprints.com/tiny-prints-valentines-day-cards.htm">wonderful Valentine's Day photo cards</a>. The red and pink hearts just called my name and <em>Add a picture of my baby, you say?</em> DONE. I love how simple it all is. All I had to do was pick my favorite design, upload Joaquin's adorable picture, customize it to my liking and BOOM...done! <em>Easy Peasy.</em> <br />
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See, instead of me looking like I forgot to send out my Christmas cards, I look ahead of the game by sending sweet cards on Valentine's day. So Sweet. Joannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729108685546119475noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-969182866722908725.post-62414917084816730462014-01-29T19:36:00.002-08:002014-01-29T19:37:58.968-08:00How to Plan Meals for the Week<br />
Life as <strong>a full time working mommy</strong> requires a lot of planning. I am one of those weird people who must write everything down...in pretty colors...in nice writing...with stickers...see, I told you I was weird. Color coded organizational tools are my anti-drug....<strong>I'm a freak</strong>. <br />
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So, now that we are past that <strong>awkward conversation</strong>, let me tell you a story. A story about a girl who would eat<strong> a handful of peanuts, 2 slices of ham, and a very ripe banana for lunch</strong> because she failed to go grocery shopping. Yup, we've all been there. We've all explained to our co-workers, "I haven't made my grocery run" as we nosh on <strong>a bag of chips and four grapes</strong>. Can I get an <strong><em>Amen</em></strong>? Well, I'm proud to say I've overcome that lack of meal planning phase of life because a girl can't thrive on <strong>3 Red Vines and half a bottle of water </strong>for lunch. <br />
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This is how I meal plan for myself, my hungry, meat eating husband, and a 15-month old toddler. <br />
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<strong><u>Step ONE:</u></strong> Buy a cute mini notebook or start a list on your cellular device. I like to organize my pages like so:<br />
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This helps you jot everything down in an organized manner. You know what you're eating, you know what you need, and you can see it in one eyeshot. <br />
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<strong><u>Step TWO: <em>Pre-plan</em></u></strong>. If you're not a planner, this step might make you question how much time I have on my hands, but nay, this step helps in so many ways. My pre-plan to plan goes like this:<br />
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<em>- Check cupboards for what I already have.</em><br />
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<em>-Poll the family</em>.<strong> "Hey Honey, any requests for dinner this week?"</strong> Luckily, my boys are not picky eaters. I can put almost anything in front of them and I wont encounter any resistance. Well, there was that one time I used Soyrizo instead of Chorizo and well, let's just say I am no longer allowed to bring Soy products into our home. </div>
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<em>-Gather Cookbooks, Pinterest pins, Magazines, Weekly ads and <strong>your Master List</strong></em></div>
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My <strong>Master List</strong> consists of meals I've made over the months. They are<strong> my go-to meals</strong> that I have in my memory bank.</div>
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<strong><u>Step THREE: <em>Have a Dinner Formula</em></u></strong> I know I've probably lost some of you already, but for those of you still with me, I promise you this will make your life<strong> a million times easier</strong>. Plan it once and you have a sure fire way to plan all your weekly meals. Here is my formula:</div>
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One Pantry Cleaner Dinner (Using things I already have in my pantry.)</div>
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One Veggie is the Star Dinner (My feeble attempt to be healthy)</div>
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One Easy Meal (I can do this with my eyes closed)</div>
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One Crockpot Meal</div>
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One new recipe</div>
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More often than not, I will ditch one of the above for a take-out meal. We like to call this "Mama is tired tonight" meal. <br />
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<strong><u>Step FOUR: <em>Write the dish, write the ingredients, write the dish, write the ingredients</em></u></strong> I do a mental run through of all the meals I want and write the name of the dish and all the items I would need. Make sure you do that <strong>Pantry Sweep</strong>. I forgot to do that this week and now I have 3 tubs of Turkey slices. <strong>Feels like Thanksgiving.</strong> <br />
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I also like to list my items in the order that I see it in my market so I'm not rushing around like I'm playing <strong>Supermarket Sweep. </strong><br />
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This takes me about 20 minutes depending on my level of motivation and whether or not I get stuck scrolling on Pinterest. <br />
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I have been planning my meals like this for years and it really takes the stress out of meal planning. I'm in and out of the market in no time and all and I'm not mindlessly dumping items into my cart, racking up my bill. </div>
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I hope this helps you in some way or another. Good luck!</div>
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<strong>What are your meal planning tips?</strong></div>
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Joannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729108685546119475noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-969182866722908725.post-10663172053028355362014-01-22T18:33:00.000-08:002014-01-22T18:35:57.175-08:00And These Are a Few of My Favorite ThingsI. Jimmy Fallon<br />
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It started with a video of him and Justin Timberlake dressed up as a roll of wrapping paper and a gift bag, then a video of JF writing Thank You cards that are so witty and hilarious, then a video of him and Ryan Reynolds playing Water War. Dammit YouTube, why you gotta recommend that I watch these videos... you know I can't say no. I've linked a video for you to enjoy. Go ahead and let YouTube be your guide and waste a ridiculous amount of time watching more videos than you need to in one sitting. Bottom line, Jimmy is a funny dude. I approve of his move to take over The Late Night Show. <br />
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II. Veggie Chips<br />
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It seems a little oxymoronic to me. Veggie chips? That's like Parsnip fries...what? They make those? Anyway, thin slices of my much hated food group makes life a little easier to live. I'm not sure if they are baked or fried but ignorance is bliss and I'm an ignorant summa bitch. Let me eat my chips in peace.<br />
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III. Real Techniques Face Brush<br />
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So this year I'm uber-obsessive about makeup. Maybe it's because they just opened up an Ulta near my house or because I watch way too many makeup videos on YouTube (hence the JF fiasco of 2013). So anyway, I found some makeup brushes that don't cost an arm and a leg. My Face brush only cost me 2 fingers and a toe or in layman's terms $10. This brush is magical and glides my foundation on like a dream. Now I look less zombie and more human. Can't put a price on that!<br />
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IV. Onion Rings from The Habit<br />
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I don't know if I'm pregnant or if my inner fat kid is taking control (which I guess those two can be the same thing if you really think about it), but my onion rings craving is insanely strong. I've texted my husband way too many times this week about them. I need them. Covered in ranch. Clogging up my arteries. I need them. The crunchiness of the bread coating, the sweet sting of the yellow onion, the cooling effect of the ranch... oh take me now! Oh and they need to be from The Habit or you can keep them. On second thought, I'll still eat them. <br />
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<strong>What are your favorite things this week?</strong>Joannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729108685546119475noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-969182866722908725.post-31643687943109693552014-01-14T10:37:00.000-08:002014-01-17T11:45:24.805-08:00Drizzle of Sunshine: Hello Again1. Oh hello, again. It's me, the girl who wants to still be a blogger but can't make the time to blog. Can you guess who made their New Year's Resolution (again) to revive the bloggy? No pressure, Joanna. Just a whole bunch of free minutes in your day to decide if you want to take that nap on the cozy couch or to write about it. Just shut up and write.<br />
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2. Life as a mommy has been great. Joaquin is still the perfect child with perfect big brown eyes. I can still stare at him for hours but the problem is that he wont let me. He is a toddler on the move! Walking, crawling, big balling....he's everywhere. I want to snuggle him tight but he is a squirmy monkey. He is the quintessential boy and if I were to give birth to all boys for the rest of my life I'd be ok with that. Except when I see cute baby girl dresses at Target... I will have moments of not being ok with that. <br />
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3. I'd like to put it out there that I need a photographer. I need one that will follow me around my kitchen and take pictures of my dinners then post them to my blog. It would also be helpful if they didn't ask for free meals. I've been testing out lots of delicious recipes these days. Newsflash, I still love to eat.<br />
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4. On that note, my husband has joined The Biggest Loser contest at his work. In result, he has finally decided to join me in my never ending quest to eat healthier and tone up the bod. I'm excited that he is on the up and up with his health but I'm irritated that he didn't do it years ago when I nagged him about it. <em>Apparently a nagging wife doesn't work in these parts of the woods. </em>If I knew that all I had to do was hold a contest, I would have done that first. Nonetheless, we are eating clean and I hate it. Pass the fries please. <br />
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5. Blog post #1 of 2014....Done.Joannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729108685546119475noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-969182866722908725.post-58355239041857417932013-10-21T22:47:00.000-07:002013-10-21T22:47:43.569-07:00Giving Thanks for Giving ContestThe <strong>holidays</strong> are upon us, Folks. Cue the Pinterest DIY decorations, the recipe testing, and gift giving. <br />
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I'd like to add one more thing to your list, <strong>something that is sure to make you smile</strong>.<br />
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This holiday season, I am teaming up with <a href="http://www.cookingplanit.com/browse">Cooking Planit</a> to celebrate <strong>the Givers </strong>in our lives and communities. We would like to recognize <strong>those who give to others</strong> without looking for rewards or even recognition. <br />
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Here is where YOU come in. <strong>Tell us their story. </strong>Share their inspiring story to the world. In a place that is full of hurt, we need these stories to inspire others and give hope to those who might need it. <br />
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As a bonus, <strong>5 stories will be selected for a $250 reward. </strong>And the <strong>Grand Prize winner will win $1,000 for the charity of their choice.</strong> How amazing is that? <br />
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<strong><u>Story Guidelines:</u></strong><br />
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<li>In 300 words or less, recognize an individual who is making a difference in the lives of others in your community, whether it be by donating their time, energy or love with a focus on helping others without necessarily thinking of themselves. </li>
<li>Provide details on how and what they are doing to imporve or impact the lives of others. </li>
<li>Enjoy writing your story.</li>
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If your inspiring person is chosen, they will receive a<strong> $250 gift card</strong> to help them celebrate the holidays and <strong>you will receive $100</strong>, as our way of saying <em>Thank You.</em> <br />
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<strong><u>How to Enter:</u></strong><br />
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<li>Go on Cooking Planit's <a href="http://blog.cookingplanit.com/thanksgiving-story-contest/">Giving Thanks Page</a> and fill out the entry page</li>
<li>Enter through their <a href="https://www.facebook.com/cookingplanit">Facebook page</a></li>
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As for my unsung hero, I have to recognize <strong>my fellow teachers and my nurse friends</strong>. Hands down, the hardest jobs out there. Most of the teachers and nurses that I know chose their profession with their hearts. It wasn't about the money, but instead it was about <strong>helping others</strong> in need. Teachers and nurses are witnesses to some of the world's saddest stories and <strong>most beautiful miracles</strong>. A mark of a great teacher or nurse is having the ability to care for their student or patient. Yes, their job is to take care of them, but it's their knack <strong><em>to CARE FOR them</em></strong> that makes them great. Unfortunately, these heroes are the ones that hear THANK YOU the least. So, to all of the teachers and nurses out there, <strong>Thank you for all that you do.</strong> <br />
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Now it's your turn. I can't wait to read your stories. <br />
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Joannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729108685546119475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-969182866722908725.post-47489448322928529852013-10-09T23:24:00.001-07:002013-10-09T23:24:18.203-07:00Filipino PicadilloI finally got a <strong>new memory card</strong> for my fancy pants camera. I haven't been blogging because, well, you see... I sort of snapped the other one when I impatiently yanked it out of the camera slot. <br />
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Whoops. <em>Did I do thaaaat? </em>(Name that show)<br />
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So, all is well in the world again and <strong>I can take pictures while I cook</strong>. That's what normal people do right? Take pictures while they cook? Hmm...didn't think so.<br />
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Taking pictures is one thing, but finding time to blog is another. <strong>Hey look!</strong> I'm blogging right now and I'm feeling semi-coherent enough to tip tap my thoughts. Sure, it's 11:00 pm and I'll regret this the moment my 5:50 am alarm starts to blare, but that's <strong>the life of a wannabe food blogger</strong>.<br />
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Tonight this wannabe food blogger threw together one of the easiest dishes she knows. <br />
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<strong>Filipino Picadillo.</strong> <br />
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More specifically, my mother's picadillo...which in turn is THE best on the planet. Today's rainy gloomy weather called for something <strong>hot, beefy, and filling.</strong> Tis' perfection.<br />
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It starts with the onions. <strong>Sauteed to poifection.</strong> <br />
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<strong>Add some ground beef</strong> and let the aroma take control. Throw in some <strong>colorful bell peppers</strong>. <br />
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I used to add tiny cubes of potatoes but I'd like to try and <strong>be as healthy as possible</strong> so I threw in some healthy zucchini instead.<br />
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Oh, I forgot to tell you I had a Cinnabon this week. It was dreamy. <br />
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Add your <strong>soy sauce, salt, and pepper</strong> to taste and let simmer for about 5 minutes. <br />
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Can we just take a moment to appreciate this <strong>adorable salt bowl</strong> I found at Target? It comes with a widdle spoon! <strong>I couldn't resist.</strong> <br />
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Some recipes call for olives but <strong>I hate olives</strong>. Instead, I use raisins to add some sweetness. I'm all about the salty and sweet. <br />
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Tomato sauce tops it off for an extra hearty feel and taste.</div>
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I like to serve this with white rice but since I'm trying to be healthy, I used quinoa instead.</div>
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Oh, did I tell you that I had a <strong>PB & J filled Glazed Donut</strong> this week? How healthy of me, huh?</div>
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This meal is definitely one of my go-to meals. <strong>It's quick, simple, and filling</strong>. Love it.</div>
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<strong><u><span style="font-size: large;">Filipino Picadillo</span></u></strong></div>
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<strong><em>Prep time: 5 minutes </em></strong></div>
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<strong><em>Cook time: 20 minutes</em></strong></div>
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<em>1/2 small yellow onion, chopped</em></div>
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<em>1 1/2 lbs. of ground beef</em></div>
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<em>1 red bell pepper, chopped</em></div>
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<em>1 large zucchini, chopped</em></div>
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<em>1/2 cup of raisins ( I put more because I LOVE them!)</em></div>
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<em>3-4 Tbs. of soy sauce</em></div>
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<em>1/2 cup of tomato sauce</em></div>
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<em>salt and pepper to taste</em></div>
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<em>1. Saute onion until soft. Add the beef and let brown.</em></div>
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<em>2. Add the bell pepper and cook for 5 minutes on Medium. Add the zucchini, raisins, and soy sauce.</em></div>
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<em>3. Simmer for another 5 minutes. </em></div>
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<em>4. Add the tomato sauce to finish.</em></div>
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<em>5. Salt and pepper to taste</em></div>
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<em>6. Serve with white or brown rice or quinoa.</em></div>
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<em>Enjoy!</em></div>
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<em>p.s Save the leftovers for the next recipe!</em></div>
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Joannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729108685546119475noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-969182866722908725.post-89298373324423478352013-09-19T21:43:00.001-07:002013-09-19T21:43:17.989-07:00Drizzles of Sunshine: Update1. Time flies when you're having fun. It also flies when you are working full time and have a 10 month old biting at your ankles. (Thought that was just a saying but apparently they do really bite your ankles) Life has been busy but sweet. Maybe I can fit blogging back in? <div><br></div><div>2. Baby Joaquin is a moose. He is a big, adorable, squeezable moose. I am having a blast with him and he is just so smart. He is so moible and I swear he will walk any day now. He can point to his nose, teeth, feet, and puppy Sonic. He can dance and kiss on cue and he mocks every fun work you say. (His favorite is still "mama". ) most importantly, he is sleeping 9pm- 6:30am with no more feedings in between!!! Let the fat lady sing! </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-qHwyOEIc3Cw/UjvSY-noIhI/AAAAAAAAGYU/m9RLsrc9r6M/s640/blogger-image--498565810.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-qHwyOEIc3Cw/UjvSY-noIhI/AAAAAAAAGYU/m9RLsrc9r6M/s640/blogger-image--498565810.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-LgvAj7w_kSE/UjvSW8UfKbI/AAAAAAAAGYM/QtrChp_ybaQ/s640/blogger-image--805976347.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-LgvAj7w_kSE/UjvSW8UfKbI/AAAAAAAAGYM/QtrChp_ybaQ/s640/blogger-image--805976347.jpg"></a></div><br></div><br><div><br></div><div>3. I started my new school year a month ago and the work load is a bah jillion times heavier than before. I now teach English Language Development for 6th-8th graders. I have 100 kids! That means the grading is camping...in tents. (Get it? Intense? Ok. ) although the workload is full and my desk is a paper catcher, I feel at home there. My co-workers are supportive and fabulous, my students are challenging but sweet, and I'm getting into the groove of it all. </div></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-G2AMNT1kQMs/UjvSVEnXnzI/AAAAAAAAGYE/8W9gDb3OpYk/s640/blogger-image--114157450.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-G2AMNT1kQMs/UjvSVEnXnzI/AAAAAAAAGYE/8W9gDb3OpYk/s640/blogger-image--114157450.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div>4. One word. Pumpkin. I am ready for fall and everything pumpkin flavored. The weather is slowly cooling down from 100+ degrees to mid 80's and I am already shopping for the perfect boot. I'm ready to stop shaving my legs now. </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/--PMrihOU-Gs/UjvSTMhw0DI/AAAAAAAAGX8/x_wf-rb6iso/s640/blogger-image--415540141.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/--PMrihOU-Gs/UjvSTMhw0DI/AAAAAAAAGX8/x_wf-rb6iso/s640/blogger-image--415540141.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div>5. That's my life in a nutshell. Busy, sweet, and I'm ready for the changes. </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-I9r4iZa9m84/UjvSQ-VcgWI/AAAAAAAAGX0/gEiYuDP9nb4/s640/blogger-image--1836876624.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-I9r4iZa9m84/UjvSQ-VcgWI/AAAAAAAAGX0/gEiYuDP9nb4/s640/blogger-image--1836876624.jpg"></a></div><br></div>Joannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729108685546119475noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-969182866722908725.post-15625554816787161302013-08-09T10:17:00.001-07:002013-08-09T10:17:14.050-07:00The Last Day of Summer VacationDo you hear that? It's the sounds of teachers (and kids) mourning the end of summer vacation. It was fun while it lasted. <div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-mMs_z7TUjKY/UgUkCf4Z7bI/AAAAAAAAGXQ/RclDnwWAbyE/s640/blogger-image--2096861126.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-mMs_z7TUjKY/UgUkCf4Z7bI/AAAAAAAAGXQ/RclDnwWAbyE/s640/blogger-image--2096861126.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>Hawaii was great but watching Joaquin grow was even better. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-Evvz2PvDFtg/UgUkGHPbMlI/AAAAAAAAGXY/Xo2oMW3YjA8/s640/blogger-image--1526523789.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-Evvz2PvDFtg/UgUkGHPbMlI/AAAAAAAAGXY/Xo2oMW3YjA8/s640/blogger-image--1526523789.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Good bye, vacation. I will miss you dearly. Now I am building up my strength to leave my little one at home while I tend to my students. Deep breaths. </div><br></div><br></div>Joannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729108685546119475noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-969182866722908725.post-84068360085050649382013-08-05T23:56:00.002-07:002013-08-05T23:58:30.087-07:00Best Breakfasts on the Big Island of Hawaii<div style="clear: both;">
When my parents told me that they reserved a condo for our trip I was happy. When they told me we would be cooking our meals in the kitchen, I threw a foodie fit. <em>"No, no." </em>I said. <em>"We will be eating all of our meals in hole-in-the-wall places."</em> I told them. Food always prevails. We never used that kitchen. </div>
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<strong><em>Island Lava Java in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii</em></strong></div>
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<em>100% Kona coffee, freshly baked breakfast goodies, and a view of the ocean. What more could you possible want in life? This place is small but not cramped and keeps most of their tables right outside of their storefront which overlooks the ocean. Their menu adds island flair to the breakfast/brunch classics. Their coffee menu puts Starbucks to shame with their 100% Kona coffees alone. Don't forget the coconut syrup on your pancakes. It just screams "I'm in Hawaii!!"</em></div>
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<strong><em>Basik Acai</em></strong><br />
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<em>Don't blink, you might miss this one. It's stacked on top of a snorkel and boogie board rental store and from the outside, you might not even see it. Inside, it's the tree house you've always dreamed of. Canvas photos decorate the ceilings, bar stool seating overlooks the ocean, and the play list is from the hip young worker's personal iphone. Their small and simple menu offers a few choices of Acai bowls but also offers hundreds of add ons. This is that healthy fix you need after days and days of heavy Hawaiian fare. It's the detox after last night's luau. </em><i><br /></i></div>
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<strong><em>Tex Drive-in</em></strong></div>
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<em>Throughout our trip, my mom wouldn't stop talking about one thing: Malasadas. These Portuguese doughnuts are very popular all over Hawaii. Apparently, my mom tried them in Maui and had sugar coated dreams about them. Around the 15th time she mentioned them, we all decided it was a non-negotiable stop. The most famous Malasada mecca on the island is this little shop that is literally in the middle of nowhere. (Well, to be fair, everything on the Big Island is in the middle of nowhere because it is not very populated.) I'm not quite sure if this is considered a breakfast treat or a dessert, but we live in the country where Nutella is a legitimate breakfast spread so I think I'm good. </em></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://injohnnaskitchen.com/">..via..</a></td></tr>
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<em>The four of us ordered a dozen. Why? Because for some reason that sounded like a good idea. 3 per person was the way to go. Plus, we had to cram as many flavor filled bombs into our to go box. They offer various fruit or creme filled Malasadas and we ordered up a good variety. My personal favorite was the apple, while Hubby enjoyed the strawberry, and my mom and dad liked the chocolate creme. You can't go wrong with sweet fried dough filled with sugar then rolled in sugar. You just can't. </em></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.foodgps.com/">..via..</a></td></tr>
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In Hawaii, the breakfasts are legit. The white sand beaches and the waves aren't the only thing to wake up to here. Lucky for us, most of the breakfast nooks overlook said beaches and sand. Why don't I live here again?</div>
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Joannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729108685546119475noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-969182866722908725.post-26945692741964842542013-08-04T00:42:00.000-07:002013-08-04T00:43:32.214-07:00Every Bite Counts<br />
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A few weeks ago, I turned 30. Ah, yes, the big 3-0. I am not, nor have I ever been the type to be sad on my birthday because I'm "old". I am actually very excited for my birthdays. I like the feeling that this day is somehow about me and only me (<em>and dammit it should be about me</em>), I like the cake and ice cream with the tiny colorful wax candles, and the hoopla of the chorus of waiters singing to me. I like that. But, most of all I like the feeling of newness. I like the thought that I'm about to embark on a new year, a new adventure, a new season of my life. So, here I am, a wife, a mother, a teacher, a 30 year old, venturing into <em>this</em> season of my life. My heart is full of desires and dreams that I hope to accomplish. I'm hoping I can leave behind the insecurities and regrets that my 20 year old self held on to so tightly. <br />
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My new mantra for my 30's is to <strong><em>Savor Each Bite, Make Every Bite Count.</em></strong> I don't know if it's because I'm a planner by nature or because I'm just crazy, but I am always looking for <em>"what's next."</em> Nevermind what I'm eating for breakfast, <em>what's for dinner?</em> Nevermind that I just graduated college, <em>when am I getting married and having babies?</em> I shovel these bites into my mouth without savoring it which leads me to being discontent and disappointed. This snowballs into feeling so disgusted with myself. I just stuffed my face with all that I could and was still so unhappy with what I had in my tummy all because I want more on my next plate. So, I'm vowing to change that. I want to slow down and relish as many moments as I can. I want to appreciate that bite that is on my fork, <em>now.</em> I want to enjoy the season that I'm in, not anticipate the season that is yet to come. <br />
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As for my blog, I want to refocus my attention on food. Cooking, recipe testing, restaurant reviewing, and studying food photography. I love this blogworld and all the friendly people in it. Thank you to all of my loyal readers for sticking with me and reading what I have to say. I appreciate it. <br />
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Here's to 30. Here's to making every bite count. </div>
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Joannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729108685546119475noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-969182866722908725.post-61086661969457222862013-07-02T22:51:00.000-07:002013-07-03T06:36:06.320-07:00California Eats: Pie Hole<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I have found <strong>the world's best pie crust</strong>. I realize that's a hefty statement to begin a post, but I'm dead serious about that. There are dessert enthusiasts who are self-proclaimed <strong>"pie people."</strong> You know the type. They forgo the cupcake treat for the slice of apple crumble, insist that you put candles on their <em>birthday pie, </em>and tell you everything that needs to be known about Olallieberry pie. I don't know if I'd call myself a pie person, but <strong>I'm definitely a pie crust person</strong>. Buttery flaky, graham cracker crunchy, or oreo cookie crumbly, <em>I'm all about it 'bout it</em>. The filling is just the<strong><em> icing on the...pie.</em></strong> </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-d_c30HXMdtA/UdOrF4CGF0I/AAAAAAAAGP4/TlFHJPCXGhc/s1600/IMG_2289.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-d_c30HXMdtA/UdOrF4CGF0I/AAAAAAAAGP4/TlFHJPCXGhc/s400/IMG_2289.JPG" title="Pie Hole LA" width="300"></a></div>
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<strong>Pie Hole has it all right; </strong>the crust and the pie filling. That might not sound like something special, but pie golly it is. </div>
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<strong><u>The Place:</u></strong> Downtown Los Angeles has all the good eats and this place is no exception to that rule. Pie Hole is a bit tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Located in the Arts District, this pie joint is surrounded by trendy Lofts and condo developments, a mish mosh of up and coming eateries, and cute boutiques that sell things you want but don't need. (I also saw one of the winners from America's Next Top Model in one of those boutiques. I was star struck but had to play it cool because I was in LA afterall.)</div>
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The inside is as simple and rustic as it gets with bare walls and clean uncomplicated furniture that would make any IKEA designer happy. (I'm not sure if my decoration lingo is up to par here, but whatever.) Their storefront is lined with a few tables for you and a friend to enjoy an afternoon snack. I also need to give props to the man at the cashier as well as the young guy who served my pie. They were both super friendly and warm. It's nice to have your pie served with a witty joke or two. <strong>I dig it</strong>. </div>
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<strong><u>The Menu:</u></strong> </div>
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Their menu includes <strong>Sweet, Savory, Whoppie, and Crostata pies</strong>. You can even order a whole pie a day in advanced! <em>Note. To. Self.</em> On the other side, you have iced coffees, teas, and even creative sips like Thin Mint Lattes. <em>Say WHAT?</em></div>
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I love how the menu is written on butcher paper with a sharpie pen. No fancy calligraphy here. This tells me one thing and that's <strong>Menu Change ups. </strong>I can just tell that this place uses fresh ingredients and fruits and veggies that are in season, hence the change ups. I appreciate that. They are also creative as hell and they are constantly coming up with new and inventive flavors like <b>Thai Iced Tea pie</b>! </div>
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<strong><u>The Eats:</u></strong></div>
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I ordered the <em><strong>Maple Custard Pie and an Iced Coffee</strong></em>. As I type this, my mouth is watering and my heart is aching for more. <strong>This pie was insanely good.</strong> Like, eyes roll to the back of your head, <em>good</em>. My slice was almost like a crème brulee with a thin sweet, dark maple layer on top. Every bite was thick and satisfying. And the crust....<strong><em>Oh Lord, the crust</em></strong>... it was flaky, buttery, and laden with the love of a real deal pastry chef. Trust me, any foodie will tell you that <em>the love of the food </em>IS an ingredient and Pie Hole has love written all over it. I have never tasted a crust this buttery before. You can't get this kind of flakiness from a store bought crust. <strong><em>It's perfection.</em></strong></div>
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My husband got the <strong>Mexican Chocolate pie</strong> and it was definitely mexican chocolatey. It was creamy and rich and had that <em>mmmmm</em> quality that warms your tummy. Maybe it was the cinnamon or that love I was talking about earlier. <em><strong>Who knows.</strong></em> This one had a crumbly type crust that was just as good, but I can't speak much about this since I was having a full blown <strong>foodgasm</strong> over my Maple Custard Pie. </div>
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<strong><em>Maybe</em></strong> I am a pie person now. My birthday is this month and I'm even having crazy ideas of replacing my Oreo ice cream cake with this beaut. I don't know much about Olallieberry pie but I just spoke it great detail about flaky crusts. <strong>Pie Hole has definitely converted me</strong>. Pie Hole, if you're reading this, <u><strong>thank you</strong></u> for your simple and delicious pies. My birthday is on the 18th in case you'd like to send me one. </div>
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Joannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729108685546119475noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-969182866722908725.post-64818811138450996332013-06-30T11:00:00.001-07:002013-06-30T18:32:22.630-07:00Welcome to Bloglovin'On July 1st we can all say adios to Goggle Reader. If you are a creature of habit like myself, this is so annoying. This entails that I have to do something to import the ones I read and hope to The blog gods that my followers keep reading my posts. Luckily, Bloglovin' has made this transition easy as <span style="font-family: .HelveticaNeueUI;"><span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); font-size: 15px; line-height: 19px; white-space: nowrap;">apple pie. </span></span><br />
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<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/4566885/?claim=uyv8fne5d56">Follow my blog with Bloglovin</a>Joannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729108685546119475noreply@blogger.com0