Friday, May 30, 2014

Twist on Garlic Bread

We are at the tail end of our last groceries. I have been searching through the pantry and freezer for meals. For dinner tonight, I brought out one of my frozen meals. It was only spaghetti sauce and pasta. I wanted garlic bread to go with. I had bought some of those canned biscuits and there were a few rolls left.

  • I preheated the oven to 400 degrees and got out a 6 inch cake pan.
  • I got about 2 T of butter and put it in a large (microwave safe) bowl. I put the butter in the microwave to melt. I then sprinkled in some of my spice mix (equal parts garlic and onion powder with a dash of salt and pepper) and about 3 T of parmesan cheese. I mixed all of this together well.
  • I then cut each biscuit into 4 pieces. I added all to the bowl and tossed them in the garlic cheese butter sauce.
  • I dumped it into the 6 inch cake pan and baked for 11-13 minutes. The top peaks of biscuits were golden brown.
  • I then inverted it onto a dinner plate

I was pleasantly surprised! The edges were all crispy thanks to the parmesan cheese. Next time, I'll take pictures.

Thursday, May 29, 2014

PREMIUM GOLD Plated with Ethernet (28 AWG) - HDMI 2 Pack - Review

Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial.

In our family room, we have our large television as well as our blu-ray player and xbox. I was interested to try the Gold Plated with Ethernet cords to see if I noticed any differences in the quality of the picture. Honestly, I didn't notice any improvements. I don't know if it would make a difference for someone who has satellite or cable TV. It's a nice quality cord but I don't see the advantage of the gold plate.



I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Lumenx mountable bicycle light Review

Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial.

I live close enough to work that I can ride my bike. I am nervous though due to early morning poor lighting and busy roads. I was thrilled to be approved for this review. The bright light of the Lumenx mountable bicycle light far exceeded my expectations. At my job, I have become very familiar with lighting. I was more confident using this light knowing that it is CREE and has flashing capabilities.The red rear light was a pleasant surprise as well. I suggest this light to anyone who rides their bike, especially in the early mornings or late evenings.


I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Wednesday, May 28, 2014

Family Management Binder - Special Events

May is a busy birthday month for me. It's my birthday and also both of my parents and my father in laws. Also, I have various cousins who were born in May. As I was updating our calendar, I accidentally put the wrong date for my father in laws birthday. I decided that my family management binder needed to include a calendar for birthdays and anniversaries. Here are the pages I created:

Thursday, May 22, 2014

Why do I blog and what's Meringue Musings?


I started my blog with the hopes that I would earn some extra money through my writing. I spent a lot of time pondering a name. I knew that my blog would focus on food, thoughts, and reviews. I am a sucker for Lemon Meringue Pie. It brings back fond memories of my grandma. She passed away over 20 years ago. I then came to Meringue Musings. Meringue in honor of my late grandmother. Musings for the thought and review content.

I have yet to earn money but I have been able to review several products for free. I will continue to write with the hopes that one day my words will be recognized. My journey is chronicled here. Previous posts have shown our financial worksheets, birthday coupons and our summer bucket list ( all local, low cost adventures). My newest endeavor is couponing. More to come as I begin this adventure.

Wednesday, May 21, 2014

Finances and Faith

Things have been very different at our house over the past nine months. My husband, Rich, was laid off his job in August. His brother was his boss. He had worked there for five years. We were devastated. We had only been in our home for five months. I had been at my job for almost a year. I had never been the primary breadwinner before. Rich applied for unemployment and began spending several hours per day searching for new employment. He sent out hundreds of resumes but only had a few interviews. We turned to Vocational Rehabilitation for assistance due to Rich's extensive medical history. He was accepted. They were not much help. Just three months ago, Rich found employment. He applied for a driver position and was turned down. He was offered a job in housekeeping as a consolation. Unemployment was running out and there were no other options. Rich accepted the position and started working two days later. Now for the present, the long 12 hour shifts are taking a toll on Rich's already worn out body. He works three days per week and spends the remaining four days in bed recovering. This is no life for him. It is with a heavy heart that we have chosen to file for disability. Rich has come to the realization that things will not get better for him. He struggles with every day tasks such as getting dressed or doing laundry. His application was submitted four months ago. He recently had 2 appointments to review his eligibility. We do know that he is making too much money to meet the Social Security requirements. Rich already knew that he needed to cut back his hours due to his physical pain. We are now facing the decision to cut his hours from 34 to 20.

Rich and I are members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. I attend church each Sunday for guidance and strength. Rich is unable to go with me since he works all day on Sunday. We turn to our Bishop (the leader of our local congregation) for assistance. I have spent many visits in tears wondering what our path is and when these financial and health struggles will end. This kind man is such a wonderful listener. He hears and understands us. He helps me know that I am not alone. I truly don't know what the end result will be. I do know that I need to have faith in my Heavenly Father. I know that He is mindful of Rich and I both. I know that He is watching over us and has a plan in place. I continue to press forward with the knowledge that He has prepared a way for us. My favorite scripture is Isaiah 41:10 and it reads "Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness." The Lord will guide and protect us as we walk in faith and righteousness. The path will not be easy for narrow is the path of His presence. If we follow by his guidance and counsel. We will be blessed.

So here we go.


Tuesday, May 20, 2014

Green Coffee Bean Extract Review + Giveaway

Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial.
I have been struggling with my weight over the past year and have been looking for ways to kick start my weight loss. I was excited to try Green Coffee Bean Extract - Clinically Proven Patented Ingredient. Authentic 100% Pure, w/ Antioxidants, Fat Burning, and Energy Boost Properties. It took over a week to notice a change. I then felt more energized throughout my afternoon when I was usually dragging. I didn't notice much weight loss but more of an energy boost.

Now it's your turn. Comment below to try Green Coffee Bean Extract - Clinically Proven Patented Ingredient. Authentic 100% Pure, w/ Antioxidants, Fat Burning, and Energy Boost Properties for yourself.

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Birthday to Birthday Bucket List, 37 by 37

 Yesterday was my 36th birthday. I'm not happy that I am on a slippery slope to 40. I decided that I want to create a list of things that I want to complete before my next birthday.


  1. Take a cake decorating class
  2. Read the Book of Mormon
  3. Go to Bridal Veil or Donut Falls
  4. Read 6 books
  5. Write letter to Megan
  6. Exercise 3 times a week
  7. Do 37 acts of random kindness
  8. Complete 1 DIY project per month
  9. Start selling on my Etsy shop, again
  10. Attend the temple 37 times
  11. Take a sushi class
  12. Use coupons regularly
  13. Host fundraisers for Relay
  14. Go to a sporting event
  15. Visit Lava Hot Springs
  16. Listen more, interrupt less
  17.  Go to Witches Night Out at Gardener Village
  18. Make a fruit bouquet
  19. Can sweet and sour sauce
  20. Make 10 things found on Pinterest
  21. Refresh my Spanish knowledge
  22. Bake bread (overcome my fear of yeast)
  23. Bear my testimony in church and to a friend
  24. Fix and upgrade my cedar chest
  25. Ride a horse 
  26. Complete my cook book
  27. Add one thing I am grateful for to my journal daily
  28. Wear more jewelry than just my wedding ring
  29. Visit a new museum
  30. Enter a gingerbread house for the Festival of Trees
  31. Add 1 photo a week to blog
  32. Make inspiration board for weight loss
  33. Go fishing for real (no trout farm)
  34. Host a party 
  35. Complete family binder
  36. Go to the State Fair
  37. Complete a bike race.
Update:
Attend Swiss Days in Midway!

Wednesday, May 14, 2014

Birthday Freebies!


Our finances are pretty tight right now and my birthday is just around the corner. I decided to sign up for restaurant e clubs to see what I would receive. Click on the company name to join their club! Here are my coupons thus far.

Buy one get one free - Cold Stone

Free regular bowl - Noodles and Company (I have never been so I am stoked about this one!)

Free 12 oz shake with regular sandwich purchase - Arby's

Free burger - Red Robin (We're going to eat here with my in-law's)

Free rooty tooty fresh n fruity - IHOP

Free meal - Denny's (only valid on my birthdate)

Free premium shake - Del Taco

Buy one get one free blizzard - Dairy Queen


I'll edit and update this post as more specials come in.

Tuesday, May 13, 2014

Megan's Mom - My story as a birthmom



I started school at Weber State University in the fall of 1996. I lived in a co-ed dorm and loved it. (The floors were all boy or girl though) I met Seth, the birth father, through mutual friends. I have a few memories of him before we started dating. I remember him jumping over a couch to touch my exposed stomach. He was surprised to find that it was rock hard. We began to hang out more and more. I remember staying up all night helping him finish a project for school. We started dating in March of 1997. I was a very happy girl. Seth was a sweet guy. On campus, he'd whistle at me. So cute!! I took him to meet family a few days after we started dating. He didn't give the best impression. My uncle asked if I was "robbing the cradle." Seth was actually older than me. He didn't look it though. I invited Seth to spend Easter with my family. He agreed. He showed up at my house clean shaven and had cut off his hair (it had been shoulder length). I was shocked. Our relationship continued to progress well. I began having health problems in April. Seth began staying with me to help me through the nights. There was a week when we went to the emergency room almost every single night. Finally the doctor admitted me and ended up doing surgery to remove my appendix and an ovarian cyst. Seth was there through the whole thing. He would come to the hospital after school and work and stay right by my side. I healed fairly quickly and was put on birth control to prevent the growth of any more cysts. I remember my mom telling us that we didn't have license to "fool around" now that I was on the pill. I remember thinking "too late." When my birthday came in May, Seth surprised me with a ring. I was floored. It was small and simple but the interlocking hearts were very meaningful. He told me it was a promise ring and that we'd get married in 2000 once we were both done with college. I was satisfied with that arrangement. The summer passed and we both decided that we didn't want to return to the dorms. Seths parents bought a house for us to live in. It was a two story house with 2 separate entrances. The plan was that boys would live upstairs with Seth and I would live downstairs with a few other girls. I hardly every slept in my room. I was usually with Seth. We started having problems not long after the new school year started. I talked to Seth's mom and told her that I needed to move out. She said I couldn't unless I found someone to fulfill my contract. I was stuck.
My grandfather (dad's dad) had a stroke at the beginning of November 1997. My dad and I went there a few weeks later to be with grandpa. I'm not sure how long we were gone. I know that it was at least a week. I remember the last words I said to Grandpa were "don't flirt with the nurses too much." Dad and I decided to go home since Grandpa seemed to be improving. By the time we got home (about 6 hrs), Mom greeted us saying that Grandpa had taken a turn for the worse. We repacked and headed back to Idaho. All this time, I had been feeling a little nauseous but figured it was just stress. I sat by my Grandfather's beside until he took his last breath and then informed the nurses that he was gone. It was a sad sad day in my life. I had always been my grandpa's "Woman". As the family arrived for the funeral, I talked to a few of my cousins and my aunt about the possibility of me being pregnant. I was advised to go to the doctor as soon as I got home.
On December 9, 1997, I went to the store with one of my roommates and bought a pregnancy test. I took the test and it came out positive. Seth was sitting at his computer and didn't flinch. He just told me to go find out for sure. I went to a clinic with a roommate and had another test done. The nurse told me that the line was faint but definitely there. She congratulated me and handed me some baby stuff. I remember being a little frustrated. I went home and cried. It took me quite a while to break the news to my parents. All the while, Seth seemed indifferent about the situation. After all it was the holiday season and my grandfather had just passed away. In the meantime my mom's fathers health began to deteriorate. I finally got up the nerve to tell my mom. I called her on the phone and asked her if I had something really important to talk to her about how did she want it done. She said to just tell her. When I did, the line went dead. I thought that she had hung up on me. Instead, she asked if I had told my father. I knew I was in big trouble. Mom just calmly invited me to Sunday dinner and things went okay from then on. We went to Montana to spend one last Christmas with my other grandpa. I was forbidden to talk about my pregnancy in front of my grandpa. I'd go into the back bedrooms with my cousins and talk. My mom just couldn't deal with me yet. Grandpa passed away at the beginning of January. Focus was then turned to me.
My mom went to someone at her church and asked and asked for help. There was an adoption agency associated with the church. Each neighborhood had their own representative. Mom spent a lot of time with this lady asking for help and guidance. I did my best to avoid them. I was planning to keep the baby and raise her with Seth's help. My ideas were changed after he told his parents about the pregnancy. Their options for him were marriage or adoption. He said that marriage was out of the question so they told him that the baby needed to be placed for adoption. I was furious that he let his parents make his decision about our baby. I then received word from his mom that I needed to move out of the house since being pregnant and unmarried wasn't a good example. I moved home. I tried to talk to Seth but he shut me out. I wanted to discuss parenting options. He told me that he didn't have any time or money for a baby. He basically told me to leave him out of it.
I felt totally alone. I finally decided to listen to my mom and talk to the lady from church about this adoption agency. She told me that they didn't only do adoption and that if I chose to single parent my baby that they would help me with that too. I decided to go to the weekly support group meetings for the pregnant moms. The first hour of the group was an information hour. We had single moms tell about their experiences. We learned about taking care of infants. All sorts of different people gave presentations. The second hour was a separate discussion hour. The birth moms and some dads stayed in one room while their parents went to another. We were able to talk about any issues we were having. I met a lot of great girls through this group and began to feel very comfortable talking there. I also began meeting with a counselor once a week. She would give me assignments to help me make the best decision for my baby.
In April I found out that I was having a little girl. I was so excited. I began to feel overwhelmed with the responsibilities of being a single parent. I finally decided that the child I was carrying was not mine, that there was a family out there waiting for her. I went to my counselor and told her it was time to start looking at adoptive families. I thought she was going to fall out of her chair. Once I made the decision to place, it seemed like everyone I talked to either wanted to adopt my baby or knew someone who wanted to adopt. It was quite frustrating for me. The tip of the iceberg was a cousin, Denise, that called my house one day. She asked for my mom. I told her that mom was at work and gave her the number. Mom called me a few minutes later. She asked if Denise had said anything to me. I said no. She said that Denise wanted to adopt my baby. I was furious. She called and didn't even want to talk to me. I found that to be rude and I wouldn't have any part of it. I had an aunt let me know that some of her friends were looking into adoption. I agreed to consider their packet along with the others that my counselor had picked.
The day finally arrived when I was to look through the adoptive family packets. Each packet had a few pictures, a profile sheet, and a letter. I believe I had eight families to choose from. I had two specific requirements of the adoptive family. I wanted the mom to be a stay at home mom and I wanted them to already have a son. I remember scanning over the pictures. There was one that stood out but I still read through each packet. I think it was the second or third one that I read. I was looking at a beautiful blond haired blue-eyed family. The looked wonderful together. I read about a military dad, a stay at home mom and a adopted 4 1/2 yr old boy. I knew they were the ones. I was a little stunned because I knew my daughter wouldn't blend as well with the family as the son had. She was to be 1/4 Chinese and I knew those features would be dominant. It didn't matter though, I knew this family was it. I took the packet home to my family that night and shared my experiences with them. My mom couldn't get through the letter without crying, neither could my grandma. I told the counselor the next day that this was the family.
I began making preparations to announce this little one to her family. I wrote a letter asking if they'd like to have a little girl join their family at the end of the summer. My mom crocheted a baby dress that was included with the letter. It just so happened that the delivery of this news coincided with Mother's Day. It was a bittersweet moment for me. I knew I was making that family very happy. We began to write weekly letters back and forth. They were so excited. I was able to share all of the ins and outs of my pregnancy with them. They did their best to let me know all about them. We finally decided to meet.
Our meeting happened right around Father's Day. It was a great gift for John, the adoptive father. We met at the adoption agency and talked for hours. I got to meet their cute son. He asked if the baby was going to be bigger than him. We all laughed. I guess he was a little confused about the whole meeting because he thought he was meeting his own birth mom. Anyway, towards the end of our meeting, we watched my ultrasound video. My dad was good to point out all of the details of her little body. John asked if he could touch my belly. I said sure. I felt bad that she wasn't moving at that time. When our time was up, we all exchanged hugs. I was totally at peace with my decision to place my baby with this family.
A few weeks later, Seth re-entered the picture. We started talking again and spending lots of time together. I began rethinking my decision to place the baby for adoption. I thought that Seth was back for good and that we would be able to parent her. I was wrong though. He disappeared quickly and even went to the adoption agency and signed away his parental rights. I was crushed. I felt a little guilty though. Through this time, I had neglected the adoptive family a bit. I quickly resumed my letter writing.
I think that summer was the longest summer of my life. I couldn't wait for this baby to be born. My due date was never right so I wasn't sure when the baby would come. July dragged on forever. By the end of the month I was through. I went in to the doctor and asked to be induced. He finally did it on August 17th. I was in labor for 8 hours and nothing happened. I had plenty of visitors and I even got flowers from the adoptive family. At the end of the day, the nurse came in and told me I was going home. I guess the baby wasn't ready yet. They told me that labor should start on its own but if not, to come back in two days.
I returned to the hospital on August 19th 1998. I was in labor all day. I remember the pain increasing after the doctor broke my water. I finally got an epidural later that afternoon. I could relax and nap. I remember getting woken up by the nurse and doctor. I was told it was time to have the baby. I said that I was sleeping. My mom laughed. The time had finally come for Katie's birth. I was surrounded by loved ones. My dad, mom, grandma and my best friend Angie were all in the room with me. My aunt and cousins had come to the hospital to pick up my brother and happened to be in the hall when she was born. After several pushes, Katie was finally born at 10:34 pm. She was 7 lbs 4 oz and 21 inches long. She scored a 9 on her first Apgar. She was perfect. She didn't even cry much.
After the nurses cleaned her up, my mom placed Katie in my arms. It was the weirdest felling I have ever experienced in my life. I was looking down at this baby and knew that she wasn't mine. She was so beautiful. While I was enjoying these first few moments with this angel baby, Angie was on the phone with Seth. He had just gotten home from work and was going to shower and then come visit. My mom then called the counselor so notify her as well, so that the news could be passed on to the adoptive family.
I was soon surrounded by family. We all enjoyed this new little baby. When Seth arrived, all of my family left the room and left the three of us alone. Seth fed Katie her first bottle and burped her for the first time. He was so kind with her. I knew that this scene wasn't to be. Seth accompanied Katie to the nursery where they cleaned her up a bit. He only stayed for a little while but promised to visit again.
I ended up spending 2 days in the hospital. We took several pictures. My mom went and bought a small album and put pictures in it for John and Suzzy. Our counselor hand delivered the album to their house. I signed the adoption papers the day I left the hospital. I had made arrangements with the adoption agency and the family to spend the weekend at home with my baby. I needed a little more time to say goodbye. That weekend was filled with visitors and well wishers. My family spent a lot of time helping me out. My parents house was a disaster filled with all of the baby necessities. My mom bathed Katie for me. I was too scared to do it myself. The night before Katie's placement I was tired but the baby was still awake. My dad volunteered to stay awake and take care of her. It was so sweet.
Monday was the big day. We went to a portrait studio to have several pictures taken. She was such a trooper. When we returned home, we saw Seth's car in the driveway. I was furious. I had been out of the hospital for 3 days. This last day was my day with her. I didn't let my anger show to much as he spent his last few moments with her. I offered to let him come to the placement with us but he declined.
My family and I then packed everything up and drove to the adoption agency. We spent quite a while in my counselors office talking and taking more pictures. We were told to start getting ready. Mom and I took Katie into the bathroom and changed her diaper and put her in the dress I had given them so many months before when I announced their daughter. We wrapped her in an afghan that my grandma had made. We took a few final pictures and then we were told it was time. My cousin was a volunteer at the agency. She was ultimately the one who took Katie and placed her in Suzzy's arms. I cried more than I ever thought possible. My heart broke when I let my little girl go. After I spent some time to compose myself, we left. As we did, I saw John, Suzzy, Christopher and Katie standing together in a perfect family portrait

Monday, May 12, 2014

Home Decor

My front/living room is a continual work in progress. It is here that I decorate for all of the holidays. We also spend our time with guests in this room. Since we're between holidays/seasons, I've been struggling with how to decorate. Here's what I've come up with until summer hits:
 My "Family" project is finally complete!

 I got the couple statue for Mother's Day this year. The boys are from last year.
I have a round table that was my dad's parents. Yes, another Willow Tree couple statue. This was my wedding gift.

Sunday, May 11, 2014

Mixed Emotions for Mother's Day

Throughout my adult life, Mother's Day has been a struggle for me. As I grow older, it only seems to get worse. You may wonder why I am not a fan of Mother's Day since I have an amazing mom and my grandma is still alive and well.

Reason 1  - Megan

   She'll be 16 this year. I was 19 when I became pregnant. I was in college and engaged to my best friend. When I let him know that I was pregnant, everything fell apart. He told me that he wasn't ready to be a dad and could not help me. My parents were supportive but let me know that she was my responsibility and not theirs. I made the difficult decision to place Megan for adoption. I felt that she needed a stay at home mom and dedicated father. I was able to find the perfect parents. Five days after Megan was born, she was placed for adoption. I haven't seen her since. I'm looking forward to the day when we can be reunited.



Reason 2 - Bry and Gib

   I am now a second mom (I hate the term STEP mom) to twin 10 year old boys. I love them more than I ever thought possible. I will admit that there is transition period when they visit for the summer. I'm sure it's hard for them to leave behind their mom and brothers. I wish we were able to have more time together than just summer vacation. It is difficult since they live in Kentucky and airfare is quite expensive. We have often debated moving closer to have weekend visitation and be more involved in their lives.



Reason 3 - TTC

   It's been a year since I stopped taking birth control. I'll be 36 soon and am obviously running out of time to have a baby. It took Rich and his ex wife several years to have the twins. We've been married for 3 1/2 years but only trying for 1. I know that there is a baby girl out there for us. I just don't know how she's coming. Will we adopt? Will we do foster care? Will I get pregnant? There are so many questions and so far, no answers.

Saturday, May 10, 2014

Cinco de Mayo dinner party

We're a bit late on this celebration. We chose to not have our party on a weeknight. Cinco de Mayo was a Monday. Friday was the next logical date.

On the menu:
Chips and Salsa
Cafe Rio Pork salads
Strawberry margaritas (non-alcoholic, of course)

The recipes used for the Cafe Rio Pork salads were found at Chef In Training. I have done a few tweeks to her recipes.

Creamy Tomatillo Dressing
adapted from Chef In Training (see link above)


1 packet of buttermilk ranch dressing
1/2 cup mayo
1/2 cup sour cream
1 cup evaporated milk
1 bunch of cilantro
1 tomatillo, husked and diced or 1 small can of fire roasted green chilis
Garlic powder (just a few shakes)
juice from 1 lime

Blend mayo, sour cream, dressing mix, evaporated milk, and garlic in a blender until blended and smooth. Dice up tomatillo and cilantro then add to the dressing in the blender. Juice up the lime and add that as well. Blend all ingredients until smooth and creamy. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.



CAFE RIO SWEET PORK 
adapted recipe from: “One Good Thing” By Jilliee
2 pounds pork roast
1 liter Coca Cola (don't use any imitation)
1 tsp. garlic powder rub (see below)
1 1/2 c. brown sugar, divided
1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies
2 c. salsa (any brand, we use homemade)

Put the pork in a reclosable bag to marinate, pour in 12 oz of Coke and 1/2 c. brown sugar. Marinate overnight if possible (can do 3-4 hours in the refrigerator as well).
Drain marinade and put pork, 6 oz of Coke, garlic powder rub in crock pot on low for 6-8 hours.
Remove pork from crock pot, drain off liquid, shred pork.
Mix together (in the blender) remaining 6 oz of Coke, can of chiles, salsa and brown sugar.
Put shredded pork back in the crock pot, cover with sauce, heat another 1-2 hours or until heated through.

Garlic Powder Rub: I mix equal parts of garlic powder and onion powder. Usually about 2 Tablespoons each. 1 tsp black pepper, 1/2 tsp salt

Cilantro Lime Rice
2 c rice
1 c water
1 c chicken broth
1 lime
1/2 bunch cilantro
1 tsp sugar

Cook rice according to directions except use 1 c water and 1 c broth. (Can be done in advance.) When ready to serve, add the rice to a 10" skillet. While heating up, finely chop the cilantro. In a small bowl, juice the lime and add sugar, mix until sugar is dissolved. Once hot, add cilantro and lime juice. Toss until combined. Serve hot.



Party Decor:
I bought everything at the dollar store. I cut out the streamers. It was harder than anticipated (thanks to folding the paper and then cutting through thick layers) but worth it in the end. The paper lanterns have a light in them. I can't wait for a summer barbeque to use them outside.
The food. In the tall green bowl, you'll see tortilla strips. We've had some corn tortillas hanging out for a bit and I decided it would be better to fry my own rather than buying them. The main ingredient was the sweet pork. As toppings there were:
  • Black beans
  • Cilantro lime rice
  • Avocado
  • Sour Cream 
  • Salsa
  • Lettuce
  • Cheese
  • Creamy Tomatillo Dressing
  • Tortilla strips
 

Friday, May 9, 2014

What's in my purse - small version

I have 1 month left of my cute small purse until the twins come and my mommy purse is taken out of storage. I am addicted to purses. Thirty-One and Miche are two of my favorite retailers. My small purse is from Thirty-One, as is my wallet, key strap and cosmetics bag. All of my friends tease that my purse is something out of "Mary Poppins." I just like to be prepared!

Here are the pictures:


And the list:
Coupons (purple case)
Loyalty cards (white with dots business card case)
Notebook
Pen
Phone
Sunglasses
Fingernail Clippers
Tweezers
Eyeglass kit
Nail file
Calendar
DoTerra Oils - peppermint, lavender, slim and sassy, on guard, melaluca, etc.
OTC Medications - Aspirin, Tylenol and Ibuprofin

Thursday, May 8, 2014

White Matcha Tea Review

Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial.



In an effort to stop drinking soda, I have turned to tea as a substitute. I figure that tea is better since it is a natural form instead of chemicals. I chose the white matcha since I know that white tea has a lighter flavor. I don't drink tea alone unless it is a flavored iced tea. I added my matcha to a smoothie. I mixed it as follows
  • 1/4 cup mixed berries, frozen
  • 1/2 cup yogurt
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 tsp white matcha tea
I was pleasantly surprised. I would definitely recommend this to anyone else who wants to try something new. Click here to view the matcha tea varieties.

 I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Local businesses - Restaurants

It is no secret that small family run businesses are few and far between. With rising taxes and large chain stores, they have tough competition. When reasonable, I choose local businesses rather than a large chain.

I have found 2 small restaurants that are independently run. They have amazing food.

One is our favorite sushi spot. The name is Shin Sei. We were referred by a few friends. Our usual place is in Midvale so we have been looking for a place closer to home.  I am relatively new to sushi and have quickly learned what I do and don't like. Sashimi is not my idea of delicious food. I love the rolls though. Here are a few dishes from Shin Sei:



 Our other new favorite is No Frills Diner. The food is amazingly good and the service is outstanding.


Wednesday, May 7, 2014

Getting Organized - Command Center part 2

I cleaned out my cupboard and put all of the cookbooks above my refrigerator. Honestly, I don't use them that often since I find most of my recipes online.

I went to the dollar store to find organization bins. I wanted red to accent the rest of my kitchen. Sadly, the ones I wanted were gone. I chose two others and then bought a red basket at Hobby Lobby.

The cupboard is looking 150% better.

The bottom basket has different sections
And last but not least, the calendar!

What's left?
Finishing my binder
Labeling each bin
Find 1 more small bin.
Finish door decor

Tuesday, May 6, 2014

Utah Summer Bucket List - 2014

Rich's twins come to visit only once a year during summer. We try to pack a years worth of activities into 6-7 weeks.

I've seen a lot of things on Pinterest lately talking about a summer bucket list. I've decided to compile my own Utah version. Some items will be general summer activities and others will be localized to my state.

  • I love sidewalk chalk. I think these types of pictures would be a blast.
 http://wendyjanelle.blogspot.com/2009/09/new-direction-for-art.html
http://quotesandimages.com/post/32489024869

  • Do science experiments. Our boys love science. Summer is a nice break but stuff like this will help keep their brains working.
Glitter Volcano

  • Volunteer. I firmly believe that you will feel better if you help someone else.
  • Family movie night
  • Day at the Dinosaur Park

  • Go to Bear Lake

  • Attend Webeloes Day Camp


  • Watch fireworks
  • Make home made ice cream 
  • Weekend with Grandparents


  • Go to This is the Place Monument
  • Take pictures at the Bear River Bird Refuge.
  • Blow bubbles
Bouncing bubbles...bubbles that dont pop! So sweet!
  • Picnic in the park 

  • Splash pad

  • Water fight

  • Visit Union Station
  • Take Front Runner to Salt Lake City
  • Attend a Raptors game

  • Make smores
  •  Make cupcakes

  •  Go to Hill AFB Museum
  •  Feed the ducks
  •  Mini golfing
  •  Temple Square

  •  Get ice cream
  •  Day hike

  • Play in the dark
  • Boys day at Toads
  • Light a dandelion on fire
 Dandelion on fire. Bucket list for this summer... light a dandelion on fire
  • Tour Sweets candy factory
 Image
  • Camp in the backyard
  • Go fishing



  • Go to the Drive In movie

  • Go to weekly kids club movie

And the bucket list is complete!