This is for Sarah...too lazy to switch over to email and type it there. That's some sad stuff.
4 chicken breasts ( I usually take 2 large breasts and split them in half)
1 pack taco seasoning
1 jar your favorite salsa
1 C shredded cheese ( I do colby jack...most people do sharp cheddar)
Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees.
Spray bottom of 9x11 pan or casserole dish w/ non-stick cooking spray.
Wash and trim chicken, sprinkle taco seasoning on both sides of all chicken. Place in pan, cover w/ salsa. Cook uncovered for 30 minutes (til chicken is cooked and juices run clear). Then sprinkle w/ cheese ( I usually use more than the 1 Cup ). Bake for 5 more minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Wah-lah!
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
3rd and Final
Wow, 3rd post in one day...that's either sad, or impressive. I'll let you know when I figure it out. Headin' to bed...long day. Heartbreaking loss in a very close game tonight...Aaron's team lost 11-10...valiant comeback that fell a bit short. They were all so sad...thinking this will fuel them for Thursday's game. Got a nice little face tan on the field trip and all that sun and nature has worn me out.
Also, my Mom's leg surgery is scheduled for this Friday, October 1st. Same thing she had done in Feb...please keep her in your thoughts and prayers, we appreciate it <3
:)
Also, my Mom's leg surgery is scheduled for this Friday, October 1st. Same thing she had done in Feb...please keep her in your thoughts and prayers, we appreciate it <3
:)
Good Day
Successful Field Trip...Aaron decided he was too grown to sit by me but, then said, "Mommy...just sit right in front of us". Yeah, definitely too grown :p We went to Donner National Park (Some still call it Donner Memorial Park), and it was a good time. We went in May w/ the family and it was much cooler...snow on the ground still, even. Aaron spent a lot of his day positioning himself near his "crush". It was cute to watch. I so remember being that way.
Now, quick dinner of Salsa Chicken, then baseball from 6-9.
:)
Now, quick dinner of Salsa Chicken, then baseball from 6-9.
:)
Dinner National Park
Good Morning :)
Today Aaron's class is going to "Donner National Park" in Truckee, CA for their Field Trip. I am very amused that each time I type it "Donner Party" into my phone, it auto-corrects to "Dinner Party". Ha.
OK, will post more later.
:)
Today Aaron's class is going to "Donner National Park" in Truckee, CA for their Field Trip. I am very amused that each time I type it "Donner Party" into my phone, it auto-corrects to "Dinner Party". Ha.
OK, will post more later.
:)
Monday, September 27, 2010
End of an era/Teacher vent
One of my 1st screennames I ever had on AOL is dead forever. Some of you will remember, "Goatgirl75"...she was actually my 2nd "Goatgirl" name...I was "Goatgirl32" before that but, I think that name was banned due to chatroom harassing. I can't remember, I was 18. Anyway, I hadn't used the "Goatgirl75" email in ages but it still worked on AIM. Went to use it lastnight to talk to someone who I haven't talked to since the "Goatgirl" days and I forgot the password, all of my account info linked w/ it, all security questions...all of it. Funny how I haven't used it and didn't care one way or another for years but, now that I know I can't have it, I want it :)
Teacher vent: I'm puzzled...perplexed, even. I'm having a hard time clicking w/ Aaron's teacher this yr. And it's annoying me. I help in the class, once a week...usually Friday, and I help w/ her last lesson/review of the day. I usually take a small group and will work w/ them on a particular area they're having issue with. I think she's not as Type-A and assertive as I'm used to. She's pretty meek and wishy-washy. She's been helpful as far as Aaron's 504 Plan, Understanding w/ his anxiety and ADD but, there's something weird about her...like you tell her that you like her bright pink, suede pants and she says "oh god, really??" If you knew they were hideous, why did you wear them? Dunno...she's a bit of a weirdo. Or maybe I am.
Have a good day.
:)
Teacher vent: I'm puzzled...perplexed, even. I'm having a hard time clicking w/ Aaron's teacher this yr. And it's annoying me. I help in the class, once a week...usually Friday, and I help w/ her last lesson/review of the day. I usually take a small group and will work w/ them on a particular area they're having issue with. I think she's not as Type-A and assertive as I'm used to. She's pretty meek and wishy-washy. She's been helpful as far as Aaron's 504 Plan, Understanding w/ his anxiety and ADD but, there's something weird about her...like you tell her that you like her bright pink, suede pants and she says "oh god, really??" If you knew they were hideous, why did you wear them? Dunno...she's a bit of a weirdo. Or maybe I am.
Have a good day.
:)
Saturday, September 25, 2010
Time To Get Serious
OK, I need to fix this layout for good. Well, until I get bored w/ it and move in to new thing...so approx. 2 weeks. This one is closer to what I want but, it's too reminiscent of LiveJournal.com for me. I'll have to bite the bullet and watch a tutorial or read a "how to". Ugh.
Last night we (Aaron, his friend Marcus, and I) decided to light some old fireworks I found last week. Not OLD, old...just leftover from this July 4th. We could only manage the sparklers and some light show thing, b/c the screamer fireworks...Pipin' Pete or something, was SO loud, and SO surprising we all 3 screamed and then laughed for 10 minutes. It was ridiculously loud for a neighborhood, at 8PM @ night, on a peaceful Fall evening. So, we're going to the park later to try it again, a little more anonymously.
Have a good day, I may post more later.
:)
Last night we (Aaron, his friend Marcus, and I) decided to light some old fireworks I found last week. Not OLD, old...just leftover from this July 4th. We could only manage the sparklers and some light show thing, b/c the screamer fireworks...Pipin' Pete or something, was SO loud, and SO surprising we all 3 screamed and then laughed for 10 minutes. It was ridiculously loud for a neighborhood, at 8PM @ night, on a peaceful Fall evening. So, we're going to the park later to try it again, a little more anonymously.
Have a good day, I may post more later.
:)
Friday, September 24, 2010
The Visit (Get comfy kids, this is long)
OK, before I start, let me preface this post by saying I love Nick's parents. They are Aaron's Grandparents, too and us getting along is important. And not easy, given we are SO different. Also...this visit was the 1st time they have seen Aaron since he was 4. Last time we went to them (like every time) in March 2005, I believe.
Some history:
When Aaron was born, we decided that since we were in different states, we would rotate Christmases w/ Nick's parents, every other yr. Being that Christmas is also Aaron's bday...it's an even bigger deal. When Aaron was born, we called Nick's parents the night I went into labor (Christmas Eve) and told them, I was in labor...baby (their FIRST grandchild) would be born sometime Christmas afternoon...and we would love to see you. Please come. They were unable to make it, despite being off for 5 days and despite living, what...4 hours away, in Ft Lauderdale. That set the tone for me. Nick's Dad and sister, Vicky came to see Aaron when he was 5 days old. His Mother finally managed to make the trip 4 weeks later. Nick's older sister, Kristin, living in Atlanta never made it to see him. And finally met her first and only nephew when we went to New Orleans for Aaron's 1st bday/Christmas. Let it be noted we travelled on Christmas Eve w/ a 12 month old, in snow @ 5am. Hellish flight, story for another time.
We didn't see the family for 6 more months, until we went to Wisconsin from Detroit to meet up w/ them, see Nick's extended family and let them meet our sweet boy. It was an overall great trip...despite travelling w/ a tired 18 month old. We were able to get "4 Generation" pictures w/ Aaron, Nick, His Mom, Dad, and each of Nick's Grandmas - Grandma Pfarr, and Grandma Mimi who was on Hospice. This was an 8 hour trip each way, with a barely toddler.
4 days later, we get the dreaded call...Grandma Mimi passed away that morning. Funeral in 2 days. Nick went, Aaron and I did not. Here starts the rift w/ older sister, Kristin. She felt it was selfish not to bring Aaron to a funeral b/c it would cheer everyone up. And she missed her nephew. Guess what chick...you know where we live. Atlanta to Detroit is not far. And that was not a fun trip w/ a little one, even under happy circumstances. I stand by my decision, that it was the right thing to do. It would be a 48 hr whirlwind trip, w/ an 18 month old, stuck in a hotel while they are at viewings, burial, memorial, etc.
That December we stayed in Detroit w/ my family for Christmas, as scheduled...but, the next yr, we did not go to his parents, either. After 18 months of rude comments and bratty behavior, Nick didn't want to go to New Orleans and be stuck w/ his rude sister any more than I did. So, we opted to go in Jan instead, for Nick's Birthday. We did go the next Christmas for Aaron's 4th bday/Christmas (older sister was there, we faked nice, it was totally fine) and then again that March 2005. Last time we saw his parents and little sister, Vicky. The 5 yrs since then have been w/ very little communication..ssporadic Birthday calls/cards, etc. Nick's sister grew more angry for many reasons and really poisoned the relationship between Nick and Aaron and Nick's parents. I could go on for days w/ examples but it's not worth it, and I just wanted to give some of the back story before their visit.
In late July, Nick's Dad calls and asks Nick when a good time for a visit is, b/c he and Nick's Mom "are thinking" they might come out this way. Nick tells him our vague schedule, Aaron's school and baseball schedule and waits for confirmation. They're coming out in September...14-19, they will get their own hotel. See ya then. Even the days up to the visit annoyed me b/c there was SUCH little communication. No info on what they wanted to do or see. No info on their flight/hotel itinerary even. For a control freak planner...this was irksome. We suggested great things like a day in San Fran, night @ Lake Tahoe, etc. Too far, too cold.
Their trip was OK. Sterile, formal, odd, aggravating. They are not lovey, huggy, "I love you" people. I get that and respect that. But, their standoffishness w/ even their own kids/grand kid has always bothered me. We planned day trips w/ Nick and I when Aaron was in school, we could go anywhere as long as we left in time to go get Aaron. His Mom is the slowest human on the PLANET. With no regard for time or my schedule. I do like her...quite a bit. She's totally innocuous...but, come ON lady...pick it up, would ya? I hate to be the "hurry up, let's go", person but, we told them about our need to leave Virginia City by 1:30 before we even left. 1:45 his Mom is missing. She has slipped into some random shop and won't answer her phone. And apparently forgot how to tell time. How sad. But, I sure learned my lesson, next 2 days I made sure they ate breakfast before we even met up w/ them and gave our leave time an hour before we actually had to leave.
Here's how it broke down:
Tuesday - They fly in, go to hotel and we meet them down the road for Chinese, after we get Aaron from school, before his game. That was Aaron's 1st game for Fall Ball...they were there and very sweet and patient. And quiet. It's OK, I cheer loud enough for at least 10 ppl. I did super appreciate them going...we were @ the fields from 5thirty - 9. After a long day of travelling and being on Central time, they were great sports.
Wednesday - We drop Aaron at school and meet them for Breakfast @ 9. Our plan was to go downtown, see the Truckee River, see the famous "biggest little city" sign, walk around and see the shops, casinos and that's it. Easy first day. Breakfast took forever. We only had about 3 hrs downtown and w/ slow walking, and having to stop in every "5 shirts for 10 bucks" shop, we didn't get to see too terribly much. They opted to stay in @ the hotel that night since Nick worked...and didn't come see Aaron at the house like I suggested.
Thursday - Virginia City...slow breakfast again, didn't get on the road til 10thirty. A tad ridiculous. Also the last family breakfast :) The slow, boring Virgina City debacle begins...this city is OLD, and FABULOUS and Historic and they didn't want to go in 1 museum or on 1 tour. Oy vey. Had to leave @ 1thirty b/c it's about a 45 minute drive down w/ construction and I was helping in Aaron's class @ 2:30. Get there 5 mins late, with Nick SPEEDING and said they should go to the house, get Aaron's uniform for that night's game, and I'll be done and have Aaron @ 3:15. At 3:30 they show up...without Aaron's uniform b/c his Mom decided she had to go to a yarn store across town. With her spare 45 minutes. Really, you couldn't do that last night when you weren't spending time w/ your Grandson? Just wondering. We had to rush to eat (we gave them 5 or 6 exclusive to Reno/West Coast options and his Mom chose...Olive Garden. Their's is about an hour away. Sigh.), then back to the house to get Aaron's uniform. He had a wonderful game and his Grandpa Bob was actually quite impressed. I think Grandma might have fallen asleep. We part ways.
Friday - Ate separate breakfasts again (yay) and went up to Tahoe. Which by the way is one of the most spectacular things I have ever seen in person. It's on par w/ the Grand Canyon. Yawn, yeah big whoop...take some pics, where's the shops? Seriously. (sidenote: i did get some adorable flip flops for $2.50 so it wasn't a total loss)...The perk of this day was Grandma wanted to have Margaritas and Bloody Marys lakeside. Yes please. That covered lunch. Rushed to get Aaron, went to Claimjumper (they don't have those on the East Coast). Nick worked @ 6, I convinced his parents to take it easy, and we would meet up early the next day for a cookout and watch the Wisconsin game. I needed a break, biting my tongue was getting harder.
Saturday - They came over about 9thirty AM, we hung out, they helped some while Nick and I cooked. My Dad came down and spent time w/ them, we had a great day, got wonderful "3 Generation" pictures, w/ my parents, Nick's parents and Aaron. Wisconsin won, Nick worked at 2 and they stayed until about 6.
Sunday - Met them @ 8AM, said goodbye. Went home and took a nap.
Some history:
When Aaron was born, we decided that since we were in different states, we would rotate Christmases w/ Nick's parents, every other yr. Being that Christmas is also Aaron's bday...it's an even bigger deal. When Aaron was born, we called Nick's parents the night I went into labor (Christmas Eve) and told them, I was in labor...baby (their FIRST grandchild) would be born sometime Christmas afternoon...and we would love to see you. Please come. They were unable to make it, despite being off for 5 days and despite living, what...4 hours away, in Ft Lauderdale. That set the tone for me. Nick's Dad and sister, Vicky came to see Aaron when he was 5 days old. His Mother finally managed to make the trip 4 weeks later. Nick's older sister, Kristin, living in Atlanta never made it to see him. And finally met her first and only nephew when we went to New Orleans for Aaron's 1st bday/Christmas. Let it be noted we travelled on Christmas Eve w/ a 12 month old, in snow @ 5am. Hellish flight, story for another time.
We didn't see the family for 6 more months, until we went to Wisconsin from Detroit to meet up w/ them, see Nick's extended family and let them meet our sweet boy. It was an overall great trip...despite travelling w/ a tired 18 month old. We were able to get "4 Generation" pictures w/ Aaron, Nick, His Mom, Dad, and each of Nick's Grandmas - Grandma Pfarr, and Grandma Mimi who was on Hospice. This was an 8 hour trip each way, with a barely toddler.
4 days later, we get the dreaded call...Grandma Mimi passed away that morning. Funeral in 2 days. Nick went, Aaron and I did not. Here starts the rift w/ older sister, Kristin. She felt it was selfish not to bring Aaron to a funeral b/c it would cheer everyone up. And she missed her nephew. Guess what chick...you know where we live. Atlanta to Detroit is not far. And that was not a fun trip w/ a little one, even under happy circumstances. I stand by my decision, that it was the right thing to do. It would be a 48 hr whirlwind trip, w/ an 18 month old, stuck in a hotel while they are at viewings, burial, memorial, etc.
That December we stayed in Detroit w/ my family for Christmas, as scheduled...but, the next yr, we did not go to his parents, either. After 18 months of rude comments and bratty behavior, Nick didn't want to go to New Orleans and be stuck w/ his rude sister any more than I did. So, we opted to go in Jan instead, for Nick's Birthday. We did go the next Christmas for Aaron's 4th bday/Christmas (older sister was there, we faked nice, it was totally fine) and then again that March 2005. Last time we saw his parents and little sister, Vicky. The 5 yrs since then have been w/ very little communication..ssporadic Birthday calls/cards, etc. Nick's sister grew more angry for many reasons and really poisoned the relationship between Nick and Aaron and Nick's parents. I could go on for days w/ examples but it's not worth it, and I just wanted to give some of the back story before their visit.
In late July, Nick's Dad calls and asks Nick when a good time for a visit is, b/c he and Nick's Mom "are thinking" they might come out this way. Nick tells him our vague schedule, Aaron's school and baseball schedule and waits for confirmation. They're coming out in September...14-19, they will get their own hotel. See ya then. Even the days up to the visit annoyed me b/c there was SUCH little communication. No info on what they wanted to do or see. No info on their flight/hotel itinerary even. For a control freak planner...this was irksome. We suggested great things like a day in San Fran, night @ Lake Tahoe, etc. Too far, too cold.
Their trip was OK. Sterile, formal, odd, aggravating. They are not lovey, huggy, "I love you" people. I get that and respect that. But, their standoffishness w/ even their own kids/grand kid has always bothered me. We planned day trips w/ Nick and I when Aaron was in school, we could go anywhere as long as we left in time to go get Aaron. His Mom is the slowest human on the PLANET. With no regard for time or my schedule. I do like her...quite a bit. She's totally innocuous...but, come ON lady...pick it up, would ya? I hate to be the "hurry up, let's go", person but, we told them about our need to leave Virginia City by 1:30 before we even left. 1:45 his Mom is missing. She has slipped into some random shop and won't answer her phone. And apparently forgot how to tell time. How sad. But, I sure learned my lesson, next 2 days I made sure they ate breakfast before we even met up w/ them and gave our leave time an hour before we actually had to leave.
Here's how it broke down:
Tuesday - They fly in, go to hotel and we meet them down the road for Chinese, after we get Aaron from school, before his game. That was Aaron's 1st game for Fall Ball...they were there and very sweet and patient. And quiet. It's OK, I cheer loud enough for at least 10 ppl. I did super appreciate them going...we were @ the fields from 5thirty - 9. After a long day of travelling and being on Central time, they were great sports.
Wednesday - We drop Aaron at school and meet them for Breakfast @ 9. Our plan was to go downtown, see the Truckee River, see the famous "biggest little city" sign, walk around and see the shops, casinos and that's it. Easy first day. Breakfast took forever. We only had about 3 hrs downtown and w/ slow walking, and having to stop in every "5 shirts for 10 bucks" shop, we didn't get to see too terribly much. They opted to stay in @ the hotel that night since Nick worked...and didn't come see Aaron at the house like I suggested.
Thursday - Virginia City...slow breakfast again, didn't get on the road til 10thirty. A tad ridiculous. Also the last family breakfast :) The slow, boring Virgina City debacle begins...this city is OLD, and FABULOUS and Historic and they didn't want to go in 1 museum or on 1 tour. Oy vey. Had to leave @ 1thirty b/c it's about a 45 minute drive down w/ construction and I was helping in Aaron's class @ 2:30. Get there 5 mins late, with Nick SPEEDING and said they should go to the house, get Aaron's uniform for that night's game, and I'll be done and have Aaron @ 3:15. At 3:30 they show up...without Aaron's uniform b/c his Mom decided she had to go to a yarn store across town. With her spare 45 minutes. Really, you couldn't do that last night when you weren't spending time w/ your Grandson? Just wondering. We had to rush to eat (we gave them 5 or 6 exclusive to Reno/West Coast options and his Mom chose...Olive Garden. Their's is about an hour away. Sigh.), then back to the house to get Aaron's uniform. He had a wonderful game and his Grandpa Bob was actually quite impressed. I think Grandma might have fallen asleep. We part ways.
Friday - Ate separate breakfasts again (yay) and went up to Tahoe. Which by the way is one of the most spectacular things I have ever seen in person. It's on par w/ the Grand Canyon. Yawn, yeah big whoop...take some pics, where's the shops? Seriously. (sidenote: i did get some adorable flip flops for $2.50 so it wasn't a total loss)...The perk of this day was Grandma wanted to have Margaritas and Bloody Marys lakeside. Yes please. That covered lunch. Rushed to get Aaron, went to Claimjumper (they don't have those on the East Coast). Nick worked @ 6, I convinced his parents to take it easy, and we would meet up early the next day for a cookout and watch the Wisconsin game. I needed a break, biting my tongue was getting harder.
Saturday - They came over about 9thirty AM, we hung out, they helped some while Nick and I cooked. My Dad came down and spent time w/ them, we had a great day, got wonderful "3 Generation" pictures, w/ my parents, Nick's parents and Aaron. Wisconsin won, Nick worked at 2 and they stayed until about 6.
Sunday - Met them @ 8AM, said goodbye. Went home and took a nap.
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Dadgummit
I wrote loooooooooooooooong about Nick's parent's visit, the history behind not visiting in so long, etc. And wouldn't ya know...the little kitty walked across the laptop, and now I have no idea where it vanished to. Ugh. I will attempt again tomorrow. Too annoyed to retry, right now.
Day 2
So, I'm back...and y'all are too :)
Today so far has consisted of mass amounts of laundry as I freshen up blankets/throws/quilts for the impending cold months. Also making myself a comfort food meal, inspired by fattening, fabulous Southern cooking: Buttermilk Fried Chicken, Homemade Mashed Potatoes, White Gravy, Drop Biscuits, Green Bean Casserole, and Corn. *makes fat face*. But, I assure you it will be delicious and worth the bloat.
Tonight is baseball with the boy...his 5th season playing ball, overall. Only sport he's truly into...so, we endure it every Spring and Fall. And, I will admit...when your kid actually has some talent and passion for something...even sitting for 4 hours in cold, wind, rain, and at times light snow is completely bearable. He's pitching tonight which means I'll be sending Nervous Momma updates to Twitter and Facebook. :)
That's it for now...but, I will surely be back to vent about the Top Chef finale and give my take on Nick's parent's visit last week.
:)
Today so far has consisted of mass amounts of laundry as I freshen up blankets/throws/quilts for the impending cold months. Also making myself a comfort food meal, inspired by fattening, fabulous Southern cooking: Buttermilk Fried Chicken, Homemade Mashed Potatoes, White Gravy, Drop Biscuits, Green Bean Casserole, and Corn. *makes fat face*. But, I assure you it will be delicious and worth the bloat.
Tonight is baseball with the boy...his 5th season playing ball, overall. Only sport he's truly into...so, we endure it every Spring and Fall. And, I will admit...when your kid actually has some talent and passion for something...even sitting for 4 hours in cold, wind, rain, and at times light snow is completely bearable. He's pitching tonight which means I'll be sending Nervous Momma updates to Twitter and Facebook. :)
That's it for now...but, I will surely be back to vent about the Top Chef finale and give my take on Nick's parent's visit last week.
:)
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Maiden Voyage
I have nothing of note or importance to share but, I press on, anyway. I guess I can add a little more about myself in this 1st post.
I was born in Oregon, moved to Columbus, GA for 4th grade and part of 5th...our across the street neighbor was bush-axed to death along w/ her young son and daughter..oh, she was also pregnant. True story btw, you can Google it. SO, my Mom decided moving ASAP was probably the best thing. We ended up in Orlando, FL where we stayed until after I graduated High School. My parents, sister and I then moved to Rome, GA. I have an older brother who stayed in Orlando. Since then I have lived back in Orlando for another 7 years, (where I met my son's father), Detroit, St Louis, Las Vegas and now my new as yet un-disclosed location.
I have worked in many capacities but, for right now I am a SAHM (Stay @ Home Mom) to watch my Dad during the day ( I might touch on this more, later ), and of course to be home w/ my son after school. I also have 2 worthless "degrees" and am pursuing a bit of a change in the next few weeks. I'm sure I'll have more to say on that later, as I hash it out.
So that's it for now...not sure who this is even directed to, since my lone follower (HI Lou Ann, my love!) already knows all of this, ha.
:)
I was born in Oregon, moved to Columbus, GA for 4th grade and part of 5th...our across the street neighbor was bush-axed to death along w/ her young son and daughter..oh, she was also pregnant. True story btw, you can Google it. SO, my Mom decided moving ASAP was probably the best thing. We ended up in Orlando, FL where we stayed until after I graduated High School. My parents, sister and I then moved to Rome, GA. I have an older brother who stayed in Orlando. Since then I have lived back in Orlando for another 7 years, (where I met my son's father), Detroit, St Louis, Las Vegas and now my new as yet un-disclosed location.
I have worked in many capacities but, for right now I am a SAHM (Stay @ Home Mom) to watch my Dad during the day ( I might touch on this more, later ), and of course to be home w/ my son after school. I also have 2 worthless "degrees" and am pursuing a bit of a change in the next few weeks. I'm sure I'll have more to say on that later, as I hash it out.
So that's it for now...not sure who this is even directed to, since my lone follower (HI Lou Ann, my love!) already knows all of this, ha.
:)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)