It's been a long time, friends...

I know, I'm horrible. My last post was November 16th. BUT I think I have a pretty good excuse, at least for December....

We were here...

And from there we went here...

And it was fabulous!! I will fill you guys in eventually but for now...
Happy Thanksgiving!!
Merry Christmas!!

(Because I missed them)

Posing a question...

Ever have a person that really annoys you? The one that you are friends with, but everytime you get together you leave feeling aggrivated? And you just get to the point that maybe it isn't worth the hassel? Maybe they aren't as good a "friend" as they should be?

If so, what did you do?

The final day of the challenge

Day 30. The last day. Even though I got behind so many times, I did every post! Looking forward to the next challenge =)

Day 30: A picture

How did I get so far behind?!

Everyday I log into my blog and think "I can just catch up on that challenge tomorrow..." and then I don't. But I am determined to finish the challenge, even if I was lacking in the "once daily blog post" area. Hope you all in blog land forgive me.

I ended at Day 20 in my last post...

Day 21: Picture of myself
They are all over my blog, and my uploader is kinda finiky so I'm not going to upload anymore at the moment. Scroll through past posts...there I am!!

Day 22: Favorite City
I found an inner peace in Newport, RI. I don't know why but I was so relaxed. I was also really relaxed in Stockbridge, MA because we didn't have cell phone reception and the place we were staying had no internet connection. It was fabulous being unplugged for a day!!

Day 23: Favorite Vacation
Growing up, it would be going to York Beach, ME. But I haven't been there in probably about 15 years. DH and I haven't taken many vacations because of my being in school and my lack of a job/$$. Our trip to Niagara Falls in Canada was great, and I loved our trip to Newport. I have a feeling our next vacation will be my favorite, but I can't tell y'all about that until we come back!!

Day 24: Something You've Learned
-Everyone is going through their own battles.
-Some people are just plain rotten to the core and there is nothing you can do about it.
-Things never work the way you see them in the movies.
-You don't change as much as you think you may.
-Mr D is the yin to my yang, but sometimes I just need to have my yang moments!

Day 25: iPod Shuffle
I have been looking forward to this one for the whole challenge!! I will be using my iTunes, however, because 1. it is on my computer; 2. it is currently playing; 3. I have no idea where my actual iPod is at the moment!!
My music selection is quite diverse, if the shuffle on the iTunes is working properly...
1. Default- Count on Me (love this on a day I just need to let loose!!)
2. Sara Evans- I Keep Looking
3. Billy Joel- Go To Extremes (I used to sneak into my parent's music cabinet and steal their Billy Joel CDs!)
4. Keith Urban- You're My Better Half
5. Rent Soundtrack- Tango Maureen
6. Chad Brock- She Said Yes
7. Keith Anderson- I Still Miss You
8. Tim McGraw- My Best Friend
9. Jason Aldean- This I Gotta See
10. The Who- Who Are You

*So when I updated my iTunes my library stopped working and I had to reload it. As I did this challenge, I noticed only half my library loaded. Bummer!! So now I have to fix it, and you only got to see a little bit of the variety I have!!

Day 26: A Picture of Your Family

The family I was born to. My parents and grandparents. I don't have any siblings so this is it :-)

The family that I was accepted into. They didn't have to take in me or even like me, but they did and I am eternally grateful that my in-laws are as fabulous as they are. My parent-in-laws treat me as one of their own and my sister-in-law and her husband are wonderful!

Day 27: Pets
We are a cat household. I had a cat from the time I was 5; he passed away in 2008. I miss him everyday, he was the best kitty ever! RIP Buster 1991-2008

Mr D and I have two kitties. A 7 year old black ball of fluff named Bonkers and a 2 year old spastastic kitty named Amy. They keep life exciting.

Day 28: Something That Stresses You Out
-Taking my board exam
-The thought of failing my board exam
-Thinking about the amount of money I have to pay back in my student loans

Day 29: 3 Wishes
1. I wish that I will have the family I have always wanted and that I will be a good Mommy when the time comes.
2. I wish that my career is long and rewarding and worth all of the $$ and years of school.
3. I wish that I live happily ever after with Mr. D and that we get to see and experience as many sights as possible.

Playing Catch Up Again...

I started my new job last week, so I didn't have much time for blogging. I apologize. I'm not sure if I have any readers out there...(except for the one that lodged a complaint with me last night for not updating) but I guess I shall catch up on the blog challenge. I'm not that far behind...

**(If you are a reader, let me know!! Leave me a comment!! I will be more apt to updating if I know someone is reading it.)**

Day 16: Dream House
My dream house would be:
4 or 5 bedrooms
3 baths
Open floor plan with just enough division between the rooms
Hardwood floors
Formal living room, formal dining room
Playroom/family room for the kids
Big kitchen with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, double oven, lots of cabinet space
Large master bath with soaking tub and double sinks
Man cave for Mr. D
Large backyard

Day 17: Something You Are Looking Forward To
-Our big trip that is coming up so fast!!!
-Having my license to practice
-Finding our house to have a family and grow old in
-Having that family I just mentioned
-Getting a new car
-Celebrating our first married Christmas!!

Day 18: Something You Regret
I try not to regret things, because every choice was made for a reason. However:

-I regret not living on campus (but just a little- I enjoyed living at my house and not having to deal with the pettiness of college students all the time)
-I regret not dating more in high school/college. But I found Mr. D at the end of my freshman year of college, so I don't really regret this!!!

Day 19: Something You Miss
-My friends from high school
-Holidays with my family where everyone got along
-Seeing my sister all the time
-My family members that have passed on
-Planning my wedding

Day 20: Nicknames
Everyone calls me Mel.
My grandma and former boss call me Melis.
Mr. D calls me Honey, and Cheese.  (I call him Bologna cuz we go together like bologna and cheese- get it?! hehe) If he is being funny I get called Wifey.
I had a friend in high school that called me Snicker, and he still will to this day.

Another step to growing up..

Today's blog challenge question is favorite Bible verse. I haven't read the Bible, and while I could Google it and find one, I don't feel right doing that. So I am sitting today out.

Today was my first day of work. While I am not allowed to do any treatments yet, as I am not licensed, it was a good day. I feel that while this job is going to be a challenge, I am going to learn so much and like every minute of it. It inspired me to study for the licensure- even though when I got home I relaxed on the couch instead of opening the book. But I will be studying tomorrow. Hopefully this is the boost I needed to get out of my procrastination funk! I think I made the right decision.

Mr. D also started a new job today, so it has been a little stressful in our household. But he also seemed to have a good day and I think it was a good move for him from where he used to work. Steps we have to take to meet our future goals...

Catching Up On The Blog Challenge...

I haven't been at my computer the past few days. Mr D and I went to New York City on Friday (see photo below.) It was a great day; I always love spending the day with just him and getting out of the house. Too many days are spent on the couch!! We both start new jobs tomorrow, so it was nice to have a day to ourselves before new stresses start.

And can I say I am getting uber excited for the holiday season?!?!

So let's see...I left off on day 11...

Day 12: What You Believe
I believe that...
I am meant to help people.
People are brought into my life for a reason.
Challenges make you strong.
I will be a better person for all that I have seen and experienced.

Day 13: Goals
Have my student loans paid off in 8 years.
Have 2 or 3 kids by age 33.
Be the best wife I can be to Mr D.
Have a specialty in my field in 5 years.
Read 100 books a year.

Day 14: A Picture You Love
This is very difficult because I am somewhat of a photo fanatic!!!

Mr D and I on the top of the Empire State Building in NYC.

 My wedding dress in the window of the hotel. See it there? Most people miss it and think I am crazy for showing them a picture of the side of a building.

 
 Mr D and I had only been dating about  months when this one was taken. It is still on of my favorites of the two of us.

30 Day Blog Challenge: Day 11

Day 11: Favorite TV Shows

-NCIS
-NCIS: Los Angeles
-CSI
-CSI: NY
-CSI: Miami
-Teen Mom
-Secret Life of an American Teenager
-Gilmore Girls
-Two and a Half Men
-The Office


And I will say that Fraggle Rock was on TV the other day and it was so exciting!!!

30 Day Blog Challenge- Day 10

Day 10: Something You Are Afraid Of

-Snakes

-Not passing my licensure exam

-Not being able to have children

-Losing people that I love

-Starting my new job

30 Day Blog Challenge: Day 9

Day 9: A picture of your friends

Sorry to keep posting wedding pictures, but they are all relevant!!! Our best friends stood up for us at our wedding. We do have other friends, of course. But these 10 are our tried and true. Even though we don't get to see them as much as we would like to, it's always a good time when we all get together!!

30 Day Blog Challenge: Day 8

Day 8: A Place You've Travelled To

Niagara Falls- Canada

This vacation will always have a special place in my heart. Mr D and I had been together for less than a year when we decided we would travel out of the country together. First of all- drinking age in Canada is 18. Second of all- we really just wanted to get away!! This was before you needed passports to travel into Canada, as well. So no hassel. This was the first vacation I ever took without my parents. We had a wonderful time and it was really one of the most beautiful things I have seen in my life. I wish that we could have spent more time there, but we were young and barely had money. One day we will go back and see all the sights we missed the first time!

30 Day Blog Challenge: Day 7

Day 7: Favorite Movies

Just to name a few...

Buffalo Chicken Penne

Buffalo Chicken Penne
From Carries Sweet Life

1 lb chicken breast, bite size pieces
1 (11 1/2 ounce) can cream of chicken soup
1/2 cup hot sauce
6 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded (about 1 1/2 cups)
1/2 cup blue cheese, crumbled
1 1/2 cups sour cream
3 cups penne, uncooked

Season chicken salt and pepper and put it in the crock.
Add the chicken soup and hot sauce and stir.
Cook on low 4-6 hours or high 2-3.
Stir in cheeses and sour cream and turn off the crock pot.
Boil pasta according to package instructions, drain well and add to the chicken/sauce mixture.
Stir well and serve!


Changes I Made: First, I did not measure anything. I added enough Frank's Red Hot that I thought Mr D would like it but it wouldn't be too hot for myself. I cooked the chicken on low for 3 hours and it was perfect. I do think our crockpot always cooks faster than the recommended time. I omitted blue cheese. Next time, I would add less sour cream.

The Verdict: This was a hit! We both really enjoyed it. It had enough kick to it that you knew it was buffalo chicken, but it wasn't too spicy that you couldn't enjoy it. I would add less sour cream next time, knowing I was eating that much sour cream kinda made me gag a little.

30 Day Blog Challenge: Day 6

Day 6: A Picture of Something That Makes You Happy

















My family- Myself, Mr D, and our furry kids Amy (white) and Bonkers (black). This was our Christmas Card photo last year :-)

30 Day Blog Challenge: Day 5

Day 5: Your Siblings

I am actually an only child. Growing up, I lived next door to my cousins so I always had someone to play with. But my being an only child is probably the reason why I have a strong love of reading, and why I can sit for hours doing nothing and be content. It's probably why I'm so laid back and why I get along with people so well.

Technically I am an only child. However....I do have a sister. A sister that has been with me through thick and thin. Through middle school, high school and college. Through crushes, bad boyfriends, and my wedding. She might not be related to me...and I may not have met her until we were 11 years old, but Leah will be my sister for life. I am truly grateful for the fact that I met my best friend all those years ago. It was just coincidence that we were in the same cluster in the 6th grade, that we both liked Gloria Estefan, that we both wanted to read aloud in history class. We were actually banned from reading aloud because we used to fight over who got to do it! It was just a coincidence that we kinda looked alike, that people would call one by the other's name, and that our moms have the same first name. I call her parents "Mom and Dad" and her little brother is my little bro. She planned by bridal shower, my bachelorette party, and listened to me whine about the wedding. I could not have chosen a better best friend!!

30 Day Blog Challenge: Day 4

And with this post I am officially caught up to the others!!!

Day 4: Your Parents
This is not an easy post.

My mother is an amazing woman. She has been through oh so much in her life, more than I probably know about. Currently, she is recovering from her third neck surgery. She has not been able to feel her hands/arms for 15 years, yet she was at every single one of my band concerts, football games, dance recitals, and awards ceremonies. She has endured divorce and hardship and keeps plugging along. I can tell her anything and feel that we have grown closer since I have moved out of her house. We go to all the country music concerts together and share the same spunk and attitude.

As I said, my parents are divorced. As of 2 months before my wedding. That was hard. My relationship with my father was never fantastic. I used to think we were too similar to get along. We are both stubborn and need to have the last word in an argument. Imagine those arguments during my teen years. There is a lot more that I won't get into in this blog. But our relationship has completely deteriorated since my parents seperated and it makes me want to cry just thinking about it. Maybe someday it will be healed, but only time will tell.

Me and the parentals. I look like my Dad.

30 Day Blog Challenge: Day 3

Day 3: Your First Love

This one is actually tough. I didn't really do the whole "crush" thing until high school. From junior year of high school through my freshman year of college, I had a steady boyfriend. I guess back then I would have said he was my first love. However, I would not classify him as this now!! I think my real high school love was my best male friend (and anyone that knew me during this time would probably agree with me). You know, the boy that you could tell anything to, the one that you flirted back and forth with, the one that you wanted to kiss so bad but never did. Looking back now, it was a huge tease but it made me happy then. If we had dated, I'm sure it would have been better than the one I was actually dating!! Our friendship slowly fizzled out once we went to college and I talk to him maybe once a year now.

As corny as this is...my Hubbs is my real first love. I had never met a man as amazing as he is. Love is being there through thick and thin, through good and bad, happy and sad. And I can say that we were there for each other like that even before we were engaged.

30 Day Blog Challenge: Day 2

Day 2: Meaning behind your blog name

Unfortunately I don't have an exciting story here. I decided to start a blog as a New Year's resolution. At the time, we were living in our house for less than a year, our wedding was right around the corner, I would be finishing my degree and getting a job. Hello, we are growing up!!! I realize that the address to my blog doesn't fit anymore because I am no longer 23 years old, but we are still growing up one step at a time!!!

30 Day Blog Challenge: Day 1

My dear friend (in real life and in blogland!) Mrs. F started this challenge and it looked intriguing, so I have decided to join in. Except it is a 30 day challenge and it's on Day 4 already!! Guess I have to do 4 posts today!! Travel over to Katie's blog to check it out!



Day 1: Introduce, Recent photo, and 15 Interesting Facts

Hi to blogland!! I'm Mrs. D (trying hard to avoid using real names on here)! My Hubbs and I got married over Memorial Day weekend 2010 after a 2.5 year engagement and 5 years of dating. We met at college at the end of my freshman year, his sophmore year. I thank heavens everyday that he came into my life. I graduated with my Bachelors degree in January of 2008, and just completed my Doctorate in physical therapy in September 2010. I start my first adult job next week and I am excited yet nervous to be a contributing member of society!
Hubbs and I built a house and moved in winter 2009. It has been an exciting and challenging adventure being homeowners. I love our house, but I am keeping a list of things we need in our next house. In the meantime, I am trying my best to decorate and make it our own. It will be much easier once I have a job and that extra money coming in!! We share our home with our two cats that do not even pretend to get along. Adds excitement and gets us ready for kids, right?
In my spare time, I blog, experiement with new recipes in the kitchen, dabble in photography, and play Farmville (yes, I am one of those people.)

Yup, that's me on our wedding day!!

15 facts:

1. I never drove on an interstate highway until probably about 3 years ago. I am terrible with directions and was so scared of getting lost/having a ton of other cars on the road. Well, watch out for me now, I'm a highway driver!

2. I didn't have a job until I was 18. It was a retail job at a women's clothing store and I worked there for 5 years. I quit back in February when I was on internship for my degree. I miss my co-workers but not the crabby people!!

3. I am a picture addict. I try to take pictures of everything so I can remember every moment. It was the #1 thing on our wedding list, and we chose the best photographer ever for our big day!

4. In reference to the above, I love to scrapbook!!! I did traditional scrapbooking for years and years, but recently I have started digital scrapbooking. It's so much easier because all of my photos are digital anyway.

5. I am in a person centered career, but I really hate people. It amazes me how people are so oblivious to the world around them and how many stupid things I see people doing everyday. If every person just did what they were supposed to, the world would be a better place.

6. Pet peeves: people that drive under the speed limit in the passing lane, people that don't use turn signals, people that stop dead in the middle of the grocery aisle with you right behind them, people that don't take responsibility for themselves, whiney people, people that spend money they don't have and then complain that they are in debt (see a trend here...people!!!)

7. I have been driving the same car since I graduated high school 6 years ago. It is almost time for a new car, but I am going to be so sad to let this one go!!

8. I have my doctorate degree but my study skills are horrible- I am supposed to be studying for my licensure exam right now but I am blogging instead!!

9. Country music is my favorite!! We go to at least 5 country concerts a year and I love every one of them!! All time favorite= Rascal Flatts!

10. I think I have the best in-laws I could ask for. People complain about their mother in laws all the time, but I love mine!!

11. I am an only child. My best friend and I have been inseperable since we were 11 years old and call each other sisters. It was even in her maid of honor speech at our wedding! I now have a sister-in-law and brother-in-law as well.

12. Planning our wedding was such a blast for me! I made everything by hand and no one could tell. Guess that means I did a good job. I can't wait to do the same for my friends when they tie the knot!!

13. I was on a wedding message board site throughout the wedding and met some wonderful ladies that I have met in person and kept in touch with since the wedding.

14. I miss having friends. Since high school and college have ended, I have lost a lot of friends along the way. I could probably count on one hand how many girlfriends I have, which makes me sad. I have no one I can call if I want a shopping partner or if I'm bored and want to hang out.

15. I have baby fever like crazy!! Ever since we got married, it seems like everyone is either pregnant or has a baby. I look at baby stuff online to get an idea of how much $$ the materialistic aspects are going to cost. If Hubbs is reading this right now, he will roll his eyes. He is not mentally ready for babies, and we are not financially ready for babies. But the fever is hard to get rid of!! Hopefully in a few years.

I've been tagged!!

Thanks to Allie over at Living The Adventures for my first tag!!

The way this thing works is that I answer these 8 questions; then I make up 8 questions and tag 8 people. Those 8 people will answer the 8 questions that I made up!  This is going to be fun! 

1. What is the best vacation you have ever taken/ favorite vacation spot?

When I was little we would go to York Beach, ME. I loved it there- beach, zoo, good food! I haven't been in probably 12 years. My favorite recent vacation spot is Newport, RI. There is just something about that busy town that says 'relaxing' to me. Niagara Falls, Canada is up near the top of the list too.

Hubbs and I in Newport -2010

On The Maid of The Mist- Niagara Falls circa 2006

2. If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be/why? (Money isn't an object)

To be honest, I would probably stay in New England because I love the seasons and the history. However- I want a 5 bedroom, 3 bath 4,000 sq. ft. house on 20 acres that is set in the middle of the woods. I don't want to hear my neighbors, I don't want to be able to see another house, I don't want to hear traffic. Someday...even if I get the house in the middle of the woods with 1 acre, I will be happy.

3. What is your "go-to" outfit? or your favorite outfit (pictures?)?

Jeans and a sweater. If I am home or not going out in public, jeans and a hoodie or yoga pants and a hoodie.

4. What are you most thankful for in your life?

I am thankful for my husband and my mother, the fact that we own our home, the fact that we are both healthy, the fact that Hubbs and I both have good jobs (or I will next week, anyway).

5. What is one piece of advice you would give other women?

Be true to yourself and don't try to change yourself for anyone. You are fabulous the way you are!!

6. What is one thing you plan to accomplish before the end of this year?

Get my physical therapist license so I can truly say I am a PT!!

7. What is your favorite purchase you have made in the past month?

The table we bought for the front entryway.

Currently decorated for fall

8. Do you save money for things? What are you saving for? If not, what would you like to save you money up for?

I don't know if we save up per se. We just kind of buy something when we need it. Once I work, we will be saving for patio furniture for next summer, a vacation for next summer and maybe just a general rainy day fund. I would like to start putting money away for a future little one, but I think that would freak Hubbs out right now haha

Now onto my questions!!!

1. What is your favorite comfort food?

2. What is your dream vacation? (money is not an object)

3. What is your biggest regret? Your biggest success?

4. Name your top 5 favorite songs of all time!

5. What is your favorite way to destress?

6. What are two things you wish to accomplish in 2011?

7. What is your favorite adult Halloween costume? (Pictures?)

8. List 3 random facts about yourself.

I will tag 8 people, but feel free to respond even if I don't tag you!

Mrs. F at Journey To Our New Life

Michelle at Ew No, Tutu's Itch!

Vikki at Confessions of a Blonde Sports Fan, Knitting Optional

Kristin at Keenly Kristin

Ashley at According to Ashley

Ashley at My Carnival Ride

Neely at Chronicles of Neely

Heather at Heather's Hodgepodge

Pumpkin Bread

It's fall and the chill is finally in the air here in New England. My dining room table and front door are decorated with leaves, pumpkins, and pinecones. But the house was lacking something...ah, yes- the smells of fall!! So tonight I decided it was time...time for what? Pumpkin Bread!

Pumpkin Bread
From Carrie's Sweet Life, originally AllRecipes

1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin puree
4 eggs
1 cup vegetable oil
2/3 cup water
3 cups white sugar
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease and flour three 7×3 inch loaf pans.

In a large bowl, mix together pumpkin puree, eggs, oil, water and sugar until well blended. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves and ginger. Stir the dry ingredients into the pumpkin mixture until just blended. Pour into the prepared pans.

Bake for about 50 minutes in the preheated oven. Loaves are done when toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.



The Changes: I didn't have cloves so I added allspice instead. I only used 2 loaf pans that were a little bigger than the recommended size, but I overfilled them. This resulted in my bread needing 70 minutes to cook through.

The Verdict: If I wasn't in a hurry and trying to take it out of the pan before it was cooled, it would be great. Instead, the bottom stuck to the pan and the rest of the loaf came out. Not too bad, though. I will grease the bottom of the pan a bit better next time. However, the flavor was great!! The bread is moist and you can taste the pumpkin and all the spices!

Baked Chicken Stuffed with Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto, Basil, and Goat Cheese

Baked Chicken Stuffed with Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto, Basil, and Goat Cheese
From Kayln's Kitchen

6 boneless, skinless chicken breast
1/2 cup 100% whole wheat pastry flour
3 eggs, beaten well
2/3 cup 100% whole wheat bread crumbs
1/3 cup parmesan cheese
6 oz. goat cheese (log type, such as Chevre)
6 oz. Sun-dried tomato pesto
1/2 cup fresh basil, finely chopped

Preheat oven to 350 F. Trim all visible fat and tendons from chicken breasts. Put chicken breasts, one at a time, inside a heavy plastic plastic freezer bag and pound with meat mallet or other heavy object until 1/4 inch thick.

Put pesto, goat cheese, and chopped basil in food processor and buzz a few times until mixture is combined but not completely blended. Spread 1/6 of pesto/basil/goat cheese mixture on each chicken breast. Roll up chicken, starting with smallest end, tucking in loose pieces and securing with two toothpicks.

Put flour, beaten egg, and bread crumbs combined with parmesan cheese into three separate flat dishes. Roll each chicken breast, first in flour, then in egg, then in bread crumb/parmesan mixture.

Spray glass casserole dish with nonstick spray and arrange chicken so pieces are not touching. Bake at 350 F for about 50-60 minutes, or until chicken is slightly browned and firm, but not hard to the touch.


Changes I made: I could not find tomato pesto, so I bought regular pesto and added it to regular sundried tomatoes in a food processor. It would have been better if I had the tomatoes packed in oil instead of the dry ones in a bag.

The Verdict: Hubbs had never had goat cheese before, and I am a very picky cheese eater. Therefore, goat cheese was a no go!! It was very bitter and kind of took away from the flavor of the chicken. Next time, I will use mozzarella cheese instead. The chicken was very good and crisp after baking for 50 minutes.

Skillet Barbecue Pork Chops

I needed a recipe for pork chops, and didn't have time to scour all of the food blogs I follow. What to do, what to do...Use my Betty Crocker app on my iPhone!! New age cooking!

Skillet Barbecue Pork Chops
Recipe from Betty Crocker

4 pork loin chops, 1/2 inch thick
1/4 tsp salt
1/8 tsp pepper
1 can (15 oz) chunky tomato sauce with onions, celery, and green bell peppers
2 Tbsp pack brown sugar
2 Tbsp white vinegar
2 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp ground mustard

Spray 12-inch nonstick skillet with cooking spray; heat over medium heat. Sprinkle both sides of pork with salt and pepper. Cook pork in skillet about 5 minutes, turning once, until brown.

Stir remaining ingredients into skillet.  Heat to boiling; reduce heat. Cover and simmer 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pork is slightly pink when cut near bone.

Served with mashed potatoes and corn.

I could not find a can of the chunky tomato sauce, so I used sliced tomatoes with onions/celery/peppers instead. As I poured them into the skillet, I realized I probably could have thrown them in the food processor for a better end result, but hindsight is 20/20. Because I wasn't using sauce, I added a small can of plain tomato sauce to the skillet as well.

I battled yeast and won!!

I made this bread about 2 weeks ago. In fact, we don't even have any left. But I have been slacking on my blogging. An even BIGGER but- This was my first time using yeast and making bread (thats not in the bread maker!!), so clearly it deserves a spot on my blog!!! Also- I am new to food photography, and the lighting in our kitchen leaves a lot to be desired, so please excuse my poor photos.

Anyway...a new (well if you can call getting it in March and opening in September new) Kitchen Aid mixer was calling my name from the upstairs closet, so I pulled it down into the kitchen. But what to make...well, I have some yeast. Let's try...bread!

Basic White Bread
Yields 32 servings (16 slices per loaf)
Recipe from Kitchen Aid

1/2 cup low-fat milk

3 Tbsp sugar

2 tsp salt

3 Tbsp butter or margarine

2 packages active dry yeast

1.5 cups warm water (105-115 degrees F)
5 to 6 cups all-purpose flour

Place milk, sugar, salt, and butter in small saucepan. Heat over low heat until butter melts and sugar dissolves. Cool to lukewarm.

Dissolve yeast in warm water in warmed mixer bowl (I ran the outside of the bowl under the hot faucet). Add lukewarm milk mixture and 4.5 cups flour. Attach bowl and dough hook to mixer. Turn to Speed 2 and mix about 1 minute.

Continuing on Speed 2, add remaining flour, 1/2 a cup at a time, and mix until dough clings to hook and cleans sides of bowl, about 2 minutes. Knead on Speed 2 about 2 minutes longer, or until dough is smooth and elastic. Dough will be slightly sticky to the touch.

Place dough in greased bowl, turning to grease top. Cover. Let rise in warm place, free from draft, about 1 hour, or until doubled in bulk.

Punch dough down and divide in half. Shape each half into a loaf and place in greased 8.5x4.5x2.5 inch loaf pans. Cover. Let rise in a warm place, free from draft, about 1 hour, or until doubled in bulk.

Bake at 400F until golden brown, about 30 minutes. Remove from pans immediately and cool on wire racks.

Viola!! Bread! Did I make mistakes while making this? Of course. And could it have been better? Yes. But did Hubbs love it? He did!! And I will make it again.

"Taco Bake!"

The gnocchi plans in the post from last night (well this morning) got postponed due to my friend having family plans come up at the last minute. When I let Hubbs know she wasn't coming and that I would figure out something else for dinner, he promptly responded with "Taco Bake!!!" He has been craving it and actually just mentioned it the other day. Perfect.

Now, while I did not take pictures of the taco bake (it's not very pretty anyway) it goes something like this: Brown ground beef (or turkey) like you would if you were making tacos (i.e. add taco seasoning). In a glass pie dish, place one tortilla. Layer 1/3 the ground beef, and your choice of taco ingredients (I made it with queso dip, corn, salsa, mexican cheese blend and olives on my half). Repeat twice more until you have 3 tortillas and 3 layers of meat. Bake in oven uncovered 15 minutes at 350.

Not quite gourmet, but quick and yummy and it will give us leftovers for tomorrow's lunch.

But my biggest news, with a post to come tomorrow....I made my first loaf of bread today (that wasn't in a bread machine)! Yes folks, I tackled yeast and won. Tomorrow, I will have some jam on my toast and update the blog (I did take pictures of that process!)

Just a Wednesday...

Today I took my first practice exam for my licensure. I've only studied one section of my review book so far, so this was a way for me to get a baseline and too see what areas I am strong/weak in. Of course, I did not get a passing score but I knew I wouldn't. I did, however, only miss a passing score by about 22 points (or 22 questions), which I don't think is that bad for basically no review! Hubbs was happy.

In other news, I am still waiting to hear back from the interview I did 2.5 weeks ago. Keep crossing those fingers, folks!!

Tomorrow one of my besties is coming over and we are making gnocchi from scratch. I will try to remember to take pictures!

It's Tuesday again!

As you may have noticed, if it wasn't for these weekly posts, I would never update my blog!! This week's Top 2 Tuesday topic over at Taylor's blog- 2 Things You Want to Accompish This Year

1. Get my license to practice/Find a job

Really, I want this to be accomplished before we leave on our delayed honeymoon. Hopefully it works out that way!! I need to get studying!

2. Lose 10-15 pounds/Start eating better

I've gained weight since the wedding and wanted to lose weight before it anyway but didn't. I don't want to go on said honeymoon at the weight I'm at now. We will see what happens.

If you want to play along, click the link and head over to Tay's blog!!

Favorite Fridays

This Week's Favorite Fridays topic: Fall Fashion!

My favs for fall:

Chunky Sweaters

Hoodies

Ok, not exactly fashion forward, but who doesn't love curling up in a comfy hoodie on a chilly fall night?

Want to play along? Click the link to Jen's blog!!

Have a great weekend everyone, it's finally starting to feel like fall here!!

Top 2 Tuesday: Favorite US Cities

I haven't done a Top 2 Tuesday in what seems like forever! This week's topic: Favorite US Cities.

I can't say that I have been to too many places, even in the US. Hubbs and I are trying to do a bit more travelling, so I am hoping that I will be able to add to the list. For now, however, the two cities that he and I have visited since being married:

1. Stowe, VT

It was so relaxing here. Even though we don't ski, and we went in August, the town is just so quaint and peaceful. We also drove to the top of Mt. Mansfield and hiked part of the ridge. We are planning on returning to complete the ridge hike. And the lodge we stayed at was amazing!!

Panoramic photo I took from our hotel.

A self portrait of Hubbs and I on the top of Mt. Mansfield- gorgeous view!

2. Newport, RI

This is where we went on our mini honeymoon right after the wedding. I love the ocean, even though I barely get to see it. Sometime about Newport just relaxed me, it was a great release after months of wedding planning. I found the town to be cozy and homey even though it is big and full of people/tourists. I can't wait to go back!!

Panoramic I took from the top of Fort Adams in Newport.

Can you tell we do self portraits quite often?

Wedding & Wedding Pictures

Hubbs' cousin is getting married tonight. It is the first wedding we will be attending since our own almost 3 months ago (has it really been 3 months already?!) I am interested in seeing a different wedding as a post-bride, as I was so immersed in my own for so long. Can't wait to see what a different budget, different venue, and different ideas get you!!

Also- we finally got our DVD with all our wedding photos, so now I can post here!! I will probably try to do a weeks' worth of recap posts, each day will be a different aspect of the wedding. Stay tuned!!

It's Sunday, again!

1. What kind of athlete has the hottest body?
Swimmers...tall, thin, and muscular!


2. Are you a planner or a procrastinator?
Ok so here's the thing...I love to plan- make lists, divy things up. BUT I procrastinate on everything!!!!! My procratination actually makes me more efficient- if I have less time to do something, I do it well.


 3. Diet or regular (soda)?
I try not to drink soda, but I'm not picky if I do. If I am having a mixed drink, I usually go for diet.


4. What's your one "must have" for Fall?
Chunky sweaters that can serve as a coat! I want to lose some weight and change my style, but for now I will stick with what I know. Oh, and long sweaters over leggings!


5. What's your favorite fast food restaurant?
Wendy's is the only one that doesn't make me sick, and I actually like the taste of the food. Give me a small chili, a junior bacon cheeseburger, and a small fry and I will be happy!

Our state recently got it's first Sonic, but I haven't tried it yet, it's over an hour from my house. I so want to try one of everything on the menu!!


6. What do you think is the sexiest profession for a guy?
I think Hubbs is a pretty sexy software developer ;-)


7. Did you wear braces?
I did for 3 years. They figured out, however, that my jaw was continuing to grow and it wasn't really my teeth after all...so the last year was a waste.


8. Would you rather have a guy that's super sexy or kind?
Kind. Who wants to deal with a super sexy, arrogant jackass who isn't nice?!
 


**Oh and...Our wedding pictures got posted!!! I will not post the link here because some of the pictures have personal info in them, but I will be posting some of my favorites throughout the week, so follow me and stay tuned!!

WooHoo Pictures!

Our wedding pictures are done!!! There are some on facebook that our photog posted, and he is uploading the 500+ photos to our website today. I will share my favorites with you guys tomorrow or Monday, so stay tuned!!

When he posted them on facebook, I was at work at the hospital. Facebook is blocked on those computers. I checked my email and had all these notifications of people writing on my wall- they had all seen my pictures before I did!!! I went running from the 4th floor to the main floor and over to our office to get my phone so I could sneak a peek lol I was quite the sight...

So I found out tonight that Hubbs reads my blog...

Guess I better not talk about baby fever or anything too girly ;-)


*Waves* Hi Hubbs!!!! <3

Procrastination At Its Finest.

1. Do you think mustaches are sexy?Heck yes, but only if it look like this...

LOL!!!! Totally kidding, I prefer a goatee.


2. What's the last concert you've been to?
Rascal Flatts and Kellie Picklet last weekend. Next weekend we are going to see Brooks & Dunn on Saturday night and Zac Brown Band on Sunday night. We are concert freaks, we go to at least 6 a summer!


3 What was your favorite 80's sitcom?
The Cosby Show. I still love it when the reruns are on!


4. Were you named after anyone?
The song "Melissa" by the Almann Brothers Band.


5. When you buy new clothes, do you wash before wearing?
Only if they smell like the store.  Or if I happen to be doing a load of wash anyway and can throw them in.


6. If you didn't blog, what would you do with your spare time?
I don't blog that often because I don't have spare time. Case in point- I should be working on a presentation right now, but I am here instead! However, I am looking forward to spare time once my degree is done. Hopefully I will spend more time with Hubbs.


7. What is your favorite department store?
Macy's because I am shamefully addicted to their housewares department!


8. If you were to get Laser Hair Removal..where would you get it?
Bikini line, definitely!