It's been a long time since I've blogged, and that's primarily because we've significantly revamped the way that we eat. I've simplified our shopping, minimized ingredients, and streamlined our budget. As of lately, meals at our house consist of a basic meat, a starch, and a veggie. I've opted out of the more complex recipes because that just inflates our grocery bill.
Although I tend to be picky about variation, I've come across several fool proof meals that are not only easy, but affordable!
Naturally, food costs will vary depending on where you live and where you shop, but Aldi has been a very reliable go-to when it comes to creating a wholesome meal without spending a fortune. Here are some of our family's favorite meals that cost around $7 or even less!
- Lasagna ($3) with steamed veggies ($1.25). Aldi has a decent frozen lasagna that comes with 4 servings. It's not the fanciest dish, but it's sufficient and the kids like it.
- Hot dogs ($2), buns ($1.50), fries/tater tots ($1.50), canned fruit or green beans ($1)
- Cheese ($1.50) quesadillas ($1.75) with rice ($1) and black beans ($0.50)
- Pizzadillas (see cheese quesadillas above + pepperonis ($1.50)) with steamed veggies ($1.25)
- Frozen pizza ($3) with steamed or canned veggies ($1-1.25)
- Skillet meals - Aldi usually has a variety of frozen skillet meals that run ~$3 per bag. Our family of four usually eats most of 2 bags, with 1 or two servings left over for lunch the next day.
- Spaghetti: pasta ($1), sauce ($1.25), frozen or steamed veggies ($1-1.25), 1 lb. frozen turkey meat ($2) or 1 lb 80% lean ground beef ($3)
- Asian stir fry with chicken: sweet & sour or honey sesame chicken ($2.50), stir fry veggies with noodles ($2), egg rolls ($2).
- Breakfast for dinner - there are so many different options here because Aldi's prices on breakfast items are unbeatable. I'll just name a few of our favorites:
-frozen pancakes $1.50
-bacon $2.50
-frozen biscuits $2
-sausage links $2
-eggs ($2)
I could probably keep going on and on with prices and such, but at this point, you get the drift. There are SO many ways to create a simple, yet delicious and balanced meal at Aldi without spending a ton of money. Not to mention, it's really cut back on the time that I'm spending in the kitchen!
If you haven't already, go check it out for yourself!
Monday, August 17, 2015
Friday, May 15, 2015
Meatless Southwesthern Spaghetti Squash
So, I haven't blogged about food in a while because for the last three weeks I've really tried to make better choices when it comes to my diet. When that happens, I tend to simplify our meals with a protein and a few sides or when in doubt, I just fix a salad.
That leaves for a very boring and lonely blog.
Until now.
I created a delicious lunch the other day and I was astounded at the amount I could eat, for relatively few calories. So here is what I did:
1 c. cooked spaghetti squash (I cook mine by slicing squash in half, scooping out the seeds, and microwaving in a water bath for 7-8 minutes, or until soft. Use a fork to scrape out the squash. Super simple!)
1 tsp. taco seasoning
3/4 tsp. cilantro paste
1/4 c. frozen peppers/onions
just less than 1/4 c. frozen chopped spinach
just less than 1/4 c. frozen chopped kale
1/4 c. canned corn
handful of cherry tomatoes, sliced
1/2 avocado, chunked
2 tbsp. corn/black bean salsa
1/4 c. fat free, plain Greek yogurt (as a substitute for sour cream)
Toss the first 7 ingredients in a sauce pan and simmer for about 10 minutes until frozen veggies are cooked. Top with remaining ingredients.
It was so easy it almost hurts and wait for it, this entire plate full of yummyness was only 208 calories (give or take because I estimated on certain ingredients, but still.) It was SO filling.
Do yourself a favor and make this - even if you aren't on a diet, you could toss in some meat of your choice and make it super hearty. You won't be disappointed.
That leaves for a very boring and lonely blog.
Until now.
I created a delicious lunch the other day and I was astounded at the amount I could eat, for relatively few calories. So here is what I did:
1 c. cooked spaghetti squash (I cook mine by slicing squash in half, scooping out the seeds, and microwaving in a water bath for 7-8 minutes, or until soft. Use a fork to scrape out the squash. Super simple!)
1 tsp. taco seasoning
3/4 tsp. cilantro paste
1/4 c. frozen peppers/onions
just less than 1/4 c. frozen chopped spinach
just less than 1/4 c. frozen chopped kale
1/4 c. canned corn
handful of cherry tomatoes, sliced
1/2 avocado, chunked
2 tbsp. corn/black bean salsa
1/4 c. fat free, plain Greek yogurt (as a substitute for sour cream)
Toss the first 7 ingredients in a sauce pan and simmer for about 10 minutes until frozen veggies are cooked. Top with remaining ingredients.
It was so easy it almost hurts and wait for it, this entire plate full of yummyness was only 208 calories (give or take because I estimated on certain ingredients, but still.) It was SO filling.
Do yourself a favor and make this - even if you aren't on a diet, you could toss in some meat of your choice and make it super hearty. You won't be disappointed.
SoapBox Soaps In Review
I was elated to be chosen for Influenster's SoapBox Soaps campaign, and when I opened my full sized bottles of (completely free) shampoo and conditioner, I was even more excited!
I have been a member of Influenster for about 4 months, and so far, I've had the opportunity to sample and review a slew of products, in addition to a few online campaigns for eBay gift cards. If you aren't a member of this incredible (FREE) platform, you should. Sign up here with my referral link.
My box included the Bataua Fruit version of SoapBox's shampoo and conditioner. It has a very uplifting, fruity aroma and has worked incredibly well for my 'normal' hair. And by normal, I mean that I don't have any issues with curls, coloring, or excessive grease. If anything, my hair is a bit on the flat side, but ultimately, it is very average. There are three other scents available in SoapBox's shampoos and conditioners: argon oil, coconut oil, and acai berry. Of the four scents, my favorites are the argon and coconut versions because they have a very sophisticated, neutral aroma that isn't too feminine or fruity.
The SoapBox shampoo leaves my hair feeling very clean and healthy. The conditioner is also much lighter in texture and density than most other conditioners. It does not have a heavy residue or leave my hair feeling weighed down.
My husband tested it, but unfortunately, he suffers from a very dry scalp and some mild dandruff, so this product didn't really help with that issue. Although Bataua fruit does help to nourish the hair and scalp, I think the Argon oil version would be more appropriate for his needs.
One of the best things about SoapBox products is their commitment to humanitarianism. For every bottle of shampoo, conditioner, or hand soap purchased, they contribute a month of safe drinking water or a bar of soap to a community or population in need. There is a code on the back of each SoapBox product that can be entered on their website for a review of how that purchase has helped someone else. In light of a recent earthquake in Nepal, I am thrilled that SoapBox is taking the initiate to offer assistance and relief when so many people there could us it.
I love the fact that by purchasing from SoapBox, I am also contributing to the greater good of global society. I also love being a part of Influenster and getting the chance to test out new products!
I have been a member of Influenster for about 4 months, and so far, I've had the opportunity to sample and review a slew of products, in addition to a few online campaigns for eBay gift cards. If you aren't a member of this incredible (FREE) platform, you should. Sign up here with my referral link.
My box included the Bataua Fruit version of SoapBox's shampoo and conditioner. It has a very uplifting, fruity aroma and has worked incredibly well for my 'normal' hair. And by normal, I mean that I don't have any issues with curls, coloring, or excessive grease. If anything, my hair is a bit on the flat side, but ultimately, it is very average. There are three other scents available in SoapBox's shampoos and conditioners: argon oil, coconut oil, and acai berry. Of the four scents, my favorites are the argon and coconut versions because they have a very sophisticated, neutral aroma that isn't too feminine or fruity.
The SoapBox shampoo leaves my hair feeling very clean and healthy. The conditioner is also much lighter in texture and density than most other conditioners. It does not have a heavy residue or leave my hair feeling weighed down.
My husband tested it, but unfortunately, he suffers from a very dry scalp and some mild dandruff, so this product didn't really help with that issue. Although Bataua fruit does help to nourish the hair and scalp, I think the Argon oil version would be more appropriate for his needs.
One of the best things about SoapBox products is their commitment to humanitarianism. For every bottle of shampoo, conditioner, or hand soap purchased, they contribute a month of safe drinking water or a bar of soap to a community or population in need. There is a code on the back of each SoapBox product that can be entered on their website for a review of how that purchase has helped someone else. In light of a recent earthquake in Nepal, I am thrilled that SoapBox is taking the initiate to offer assistance and relief when so many people there could us it.
I love the fact that by purchasing from SoapBox, I am also contributing to the greater good of global society. I also love being a part of Influenster and getting the chance to test out new products!
I received these products complimentary for testing purposes.
Monday, April 6, 2015
Chicken Avocado Wraps and Copycat Chipotle Cilantro Lime Rice
Yet again, I've slacked on my blogging. The entire start to 2015 has been a whirlwind of holidays, birthday parties, events, work, trying to maintain sanity etc. The past several weeks especially I have not been cooking incredibly lavish or creative meals.
Most of our dinners have included a protein basic (mostly chicken or baked fish) with a quick fix veggie and starch. We've thrown in the taco and spaghetti go-to's here and there, but truthfully, I haven't been feeling very adventurous in the kitchen.
I did however create a delish dinner a few nights ago that was a huge hit. Best of all, I may have discovered an alternative to Chipotle's delicious cilantro-lime rice. Although it's not exactly the same, it's pretty darn close!
So here's what I did:
I boiled up 2 large chicken breasts and chopped them finely. (I should probably mention that I settled on this meal option when I realized that 2 frozen chicken breasts were the last bit of meat in our entire house...alas, this was a very healthy meal that didn't cost a whole lot of money to make. Two gold stars for budget friendly and tasty!)
While the chicken was boiling, I put together the cilantro-lime rice. I just made quick-fix rice (~1-2 cups) and added a dash of garlic salt, 2-3 drops of doTERRA's Lime essential oil and some really great organic cilantro paste that I picked up from the grocery store:
I prepped the chopped chicken similarly - dash of garlic salt, teaspoon of cilantro paste, and 2 drops of lime essential oil. I also added about 1/2 of a small onion, finely chopped and mixed in the rice:
Prepare the burritos with a hefty scoop of chicken mixture, chunky-chopped avocado, and top with shredded cheese. Fold the tortilla closed and grill on medium heat for 1-2 minutes on each side until golden brown.
I served ours with more of that delicious rice and some black beans. Dinner success for no more than $8 max to feed our entire family. Win. Win.
Most of our dinners have included a protein basic (mostly chicken or baked fish) with a quick fix veggie and starch. We've thrown in the taco and spaghetti go-to's here and there, but truthfully, I haven't been feeling very adventurous in the kitchen.
I did however create a delish dinner a few nights ago that was a huge hit. Best of all, I may have discovered an alternative to Chipotle's delicious cilantro-lime rice. Although it's not exactly the same, it's pretty darn close!
So here's what I did:
I boiled up 2 large chicken breasts and chopped them finely. (I should probably mention that I settled on this meal option when I realized that 2 frozen chicken breasts were the last bit of meat in our entire house...alas, this was a very healthy meal that didn't cost a whole lot of money to make. Two gold stars for budget friendly and tasty!)
While the chicken was boiling, I put together the cilantro-lime rice. I just made quick-fix rice (~1-2 cups) and added a dash of garlic salt, 2-3 drops of doTERRA's Lime essential oil and some really great organic cilantro paste that I picked up from the grocery store:
I prepped the chopped chicken similarly - dash of garlic salt, teaspoon of cilantro paste, and 2 drops of lime essential oil. I also added about 1/2 of a small onion, finely chopped and mixed in the rice:
I served ours with more of that delicious rice and some black beans. Dinner success for no more than $8 max to feed our entire family. Win. Win.
Wednesday, March 18, 2015
From sickness comes healing
I haven't blogged in sometime. My freelance writing has been very steady. We've been blessed with some warmer days so our family has been taking advantage of every opportunity to soak in the sunshine and fresh air. And I'm not sorry.
In fact, I've been praying for a chance to live without feeling confined and restricted by the cold and yucky weather.
Over the past year alone, my dad has endured 6 different surgeries on one hip. Improper fit and recurrent infection has left its fair share of scar tissue, both on his leg and in our hearts. It's frustrating to see someone you love suffering and have to endure a plethora of medical treatments only to finish right back where he started.
These past 10 months or so have been a whirlwind of hospital stays, PICC and central lines, daily IV antibiotics, numerous dressing changes, wheel chairs, disappointments, progress, setbacks...
Just over two weeks ago, my dad underwent what we were hoping to be his last hip surgery. After 6 weeks of an antibiotic-laced, concrete spacer in his leg, they fitted him with a shiny, new artificial hip and after the surgery, he felt great.
For the first time in years, I could see his spark returning. He had energy. He was motivated. He was excited. We were all optimistic.
And then, just 14 days following his surgery, he suddenly spiked a fever. After arriving at the ER his blood pressure plummeted.
The past two days have been yet another whirlwind of lab work, bacterial cultures, multiple IVs, medication to stabilize blood pressure, elevated white blood cells, a slew of opinions on the best course of treatment etc. and finally - a culture result of streptococcus bacteria grew from the extracted fluid inside the hip.
In fact, I've been praying for a chance to live without feeling confined and restricted by the cold and yucky weather.
I've said it once, I'll say it again. God answers prayers, y'all.
Which is exactly why I'm asking for them. Not for me, but for my parents.
Even a few months of being stuck inside has made me go stir crazy. My dad has not only been stuck inside his house for the past SEVERAL months, but for years, he's been living in a body that just can't keep up.
These past 10 months or so have been a whirlwind of hospital stays, PICC and central lines, daily IV antibiotics, numerous dressing changes, wheel chairs, disappointments, progress, setbacks...
Just over two weeks ago, my dad underwent what we were hoping to be his last hip surgery. After 6 weeks of an antibiotic-laced, concrete spacer in his leg, they fitted him with a shiny, new artificial hip and after the surgery, he felt great.
For the first time in years, I could see his spark returning. He had energy. He was motivated. He was excited. We were all optimistic.
And then, just 14 days following his surgery, he suddenly spiked a fever. After arriving at the ER his blood pressure plummeted.
The past two days have been yet another whirlwind of lab work, bacterial cultures, multiple IVs, medication to stabilize blood pressure, elevated white blood cells, a slew of opinions on the best course of treatment etc. and finally - a culture result of streptococcus bacteria grew from the extracted fluid inside the hip.
Sometime today, he will undergo yet another surgery to open the incision and flush out the hip.
I shouldn't forget the faithful sidekick that has undoubtedly been my dad's biggest fan. My mom: the warrior, the nurse, the taxi driver. Pray for her too - this entire process has been equally draining and frustrating, but my goodness, what an example of God's love she's been. She has certainly been a bridge over troubled water - not only for me, but for so many people around her. They will never know how grateful I am for their devotion to each other.
When we are doubly discouraged and disappointed, it's easy to lose track of God's promise. After all, if He loves us so very much, why do we have to endure such pain, heartache, frustration? Why does my dad's vivacious spirit have to be stuck inside a body that is failing him?
I can't answer those questions, but what I do know is that God has a very purposeful plan for my life, and for my dad's.
From pain comes strength. From darkness comes light. From sickness comes healing. And from doubt comes certainty.
If God never let us experience what it felt like to suffer, struggle, fear, doubt, and worry, we would never know the triumph of success. We would never know what it felt like to be an overcomer. Sometimes He reminds us through our trials that He is the ultimate healer.
Upon review of my dad's chart, the doctors and nurses have been astounded at how well my Dad looks, despite his situation. Even when he's discouraged, he has a way of being strong.
So today, I ask that you pray for healing. Pray for the team of medical professionals that will be conducting my dad's surgery. Pray that the room is sterile, the bacteria is weak, and this surgery is successful in eliminating the bugs that continue to put up roadblocks on his journey to healing.
We're so ready for the summer sunshine. And we're ready for Skipper to be able to enjoy fishing trips and sandcastles on the beach.
Saturday, February 28, 2015
doTERRA Essential Oils for Mental Health
It's no secret that the mental health system in our nation is lacking. Although most primary care physicians are willing and able to provide medications that will address a variety of chemical imbalances, there are a lot of folks who are reluctant to speak up about emotional ups and downs.
There are a lot of people who might go through seasonal lows, experience temporary periods of anxiety or mild depression, or simply get overwhelmed when life becomes exceedingly stressful. Just the daily grind itself can make you want to pull your hair out some days. Can I get a amen?
If that sounds anything like you, doTERRA essential oils may be the perfect solution to your mild emotional instabilities.
**Let me just stop right here - before I go any further - and clarify one very important point: if you are experiencing recurrent, regular, unchanging symptoms of severe depression, please seek help from a licensed medical professional. Mental disorders are most often classified by a chemical or hormonal imbalance in the brain - a biological dysfunction that may only be helped with prescription intervention.**
From my own personal experience taking a prescribed serotonin reuptake inhibitor shortly following the birth of my second child, a couple of months taking a daily pill was enough to get me back to my normal self again. I was so glad to stop taking that medicine, but I'm a mom. I'm human, and some days still just get the best of me. This is why I am so grateful to have found doTERRA essential oils.
There are a variety of blends and single oils that are great for treating mood swings, disparity, lack of motivation, insomnia, anxiety, restlessness, stress and the list goes on. Here are some of my favorite EOs and how they are most often used to address common mental health concerns.
The Mood Matrix is a great tool to figure out which exclusive doTERRA oil blend is going to be most effective for your current emotional state.
Serenity has a smooth, soft, sweet aroma with notes of lavender and sandalwood. It is great for diffusing at night to promote relaxation and sleep.
Citrus Bliss is a combination of the citrus oils with a touch of vanilla. It is very reminiscent of a creamsicle.
Balance is a sweet, earthy aroma with hints that remind me of luscious trees perfectly paired with a salty sea breeze. It is the perfect blend for reducing stress and promoting relaxation.
Elevation is also a floral and citrus based blend that promotes rejuvenation. It reminds me of the first warm spring days following a harsh winter. It is a very uplifting blend that is both refreshing and joyful.
Vetiver has a very woodsy scent. It is earthy and pure. One of my friends described this oil with the following:
'Whenever I feel like I'm going to yell a my kids, I put on some vetiver to calm me down.' Truth.
For me personally, I feel that the citrus oils (lemon, wild orange, bergamot, grapefruit etc.) are great for an uplifting boost. I prefer to diffuse these oils in the morning for an instant pick-me-up.
I prefer the soft, earthy scents toward the end of the day when I need to regroup, unwind, and relax from a busy day. Lavender, cedar wood, sandalwood, Roman chamomile are just a few.
Another source of emotional ups and downs for a lot of women is their menstrual cycle. Although this is another topic entirely, I do believe that addressing your cyclic swings and sexual health is a key component for overall mental health. doTERRA's Clary Calm rollerball blend is excellent for addressing hormone fluctuations, mood swings, PMS symptoms, menopause and more.
I wasn't a huge fan of the sexual side effects that occurred from the prescription medication I took shortly after having Simon. Once I got my hormones back under control, I have found that these oils help to keep me in check. They ease my frazzledness, calm my stress, and help me to relax when I'm wound up.
If you have days like my momma said...like my momma said, check out these great blends and single oils from doTERRA. They just might change your life!
There are a lot of people who might go through seasonal lows, experience temporary periods of anxiety or mild depression, or simply get overwhelmed when life becomes exceedingly stressful. Just the daily grind itself can make you want to pull your hair out some days. Can I get a amen?
If that sounds anything like you, doTERRA essential oils may be the perfect solution to your mild emotional instabilities.
**Let me just stop right here - before I go any further - and clarify one very important point: if you are experiencing recurrent, regular, unchanging symptoms of severe depression, please seek help from a licensed medical professional. Mental disorders are most often classified by a chemical or hormonal imbalance in the brain - a biological dysfunction that may only be helped with prescription intervention.**
From my own personal experience taking a prescribed serotonin reuptake inhibitor shortly following the birth of my second child, a couple of months taking a daily pill was enough to get me back to my normal self again. I was so glad to stop taking that medicine, but I'm a mom. I'm human, and some days still just get the best of me. This is why I am so grateful to have found doTERRA essential oils.
There are a variety of blends and single oils that are great for treating mood swings, disparity, lack of motivation, insomnia, anxiety, restlessness, stress and the list goes on. Here are some of my favorite EOs and how they are most often used to address common mental health concerns.
The Mood Matrix is a great tool to figure out which exclusive doTERRA oil blend is going to be most effective for your current emotional state.
Serenity has a smooth, soft, sweet aroma with notes of lavender and sandalwood. It is great for diffusing at night to promote relaxation and sleep.
Citrus Bliss is a combination of the citrus oils with a touch of vanilla. It is very reminiscent of a creamsicle.
Balance is a sweet, earthy aroma with hints that remind me of luscious trees perfectly paired with a salty sea breeze. It is the perfect blend for reducing stress and promoting relaxation.
Elevation is also a floral and citrus based blend that promotes rejuvenation. It reminds me of the first warm spring days following a harsh winter. It is a very uplifting blend that is both refreshing and joyful.
Vetiver has a very woodsy scent. It is earthy and pure. One of my friends described this oil with the following:
'Whenever I feel like I'm going to yell a my kids, I put on some vetiver to calm me down.' Truth.
For me personally, I feel that the citrus oils (lemon, wild orange, bergamot, grapefruit etc.) are great for an uplifting boost. I prefer to diffuse these oils in the morning for an instant pick-me-up.
I prefer the soft, earthy scents toward the end of the day when I need to regroup, unwind, and relax from a busy day. Lavender, cedar wood, sandalwood, Roman chamomile are just a few.
Another source of emotional ups and downs for a lot of women is their menstrual cycle. Although this is another topic entirely, I do believe that addressing your cyclic swings and sexual health is a key component for overall mental health. doTERRA's Clary Calm rollerball blend is excellent for addressing hormone fluctuations, mood swings, PMS symptoms, menopause and more.
I wasn't a huge fan of the sexual side effects that occurred from the prescription medication I took shortly after having Simon. Once I got my hormones back under control, I have found that these oils help to keep me in check. They ease my frazzledness, calm my stress, and help me to relax when I'm wound up.
If you have days like my momma said...like my momma said, check out these great blends and single oils from doTERRA. They just might change your life!
Thursday, February 26, 2015
Pinwheel Taco Salad
Instead of being frustrated that my plan was not going the way I wanted, I ran with it. These unintentional, palm sized pinwheels were perfect under a simple, southwest inspired salad and were incredibly filling.
These would also be very easy to make ahead and freeze for a quick snack, lunch or dinner on the fly.
*tips: allow cooked meat to cool significantly before topping the crust. Warm meat will cause the dough to become soft, stretchy and difficult to handle. Use a sharp, serrated knife to cut the pinwheels.
If you prefer to make bite sized pinwheels, cut the crust in half before topping and rolling so they make two smaller spirals rather than 1 large one
Ingredients:
1 canned pizza crust flattened.
1 lb ground meat of choice - we used turkey.
1 c. Shredded cheese
2 tablespoons taco seasoning
salad toppings of choice
we used lettuce, cherry tomatoes, diced yellow bell pepper, salsa, avocado, and sour cream.
Other options include corn, black beans, rice, raw onion, you name it.
Cook meat, drain of necessary, add taco seasoning. You don't want this mixture wet or it will cause the dough to become soggy.
Spread out the crust and top with seasoned meat and cheese. Tightly roll the crust into a log and slice into approximately 1-2 inch pinwheels. Bake at 350 on a lightly greased cookie sheet until crust is browned.
Top with salad fixings and serve. Enjoy y'all!
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