Jennette's Blog

Binging Recommendation: The Wilds (Amazon Prime)

December 30, 2020

I was looking for a show to watch and stumbled across this show. The artwork (specifically the font) for the show being advertised on Amazon Prime intrigued me so I watched the trailer. It looked interesting. I never watched Lost but from the trailer it looked like what I thought Lost must have been (people stranded on an island after a plane crash) Here's a look at the movie poster so you can see what I saw.  If you want to know more about the show, click on the poster.  

It is so much more than that and OMG you have to watch. Just after watching the first episode, you know it's more --- and it makes you wonder what the hell is going on. I'm going to warn you this is a show you will end up bingeing in just 1-2 days. I watched 7 episodes yesterday and the rest today. Couldn't stop watching.

The basic premise of the show (without giving too much away) is that there are a group of teens that must survive on an island after a crash leaves them stranded.  It's a rag tag group of girls: Fatin (the stuck up rich snob), Dot (Survivalist), Martha (Native American), Rachel (Elite Diver), Shelby (Show Pageant Queen), Nora (Sister to Rachel), Toni (Best friend of Martha and Lesbian), Leah (loner/romantic), and Jeanette. While I describe each of the girls as I do - we come to learn that they are so much more than what they appear to be.

Each episode tells the story of what's happening on the island while also giving us a glimpse into the stories/lives of the girls back home so that we would understand why they were on the plane to begin with.

Episodes (10 Episodes of 1st Season)

1. The Beginning
2. Rachel
3. Dot
4. Toni
5. Fatin
6. Leah
7. Jeanette
8. Shelby
9. Martha
10. Nora

It has already been renewed for Season 2 which makes me happy as this was a great show....and I need answers!!!!!

Email me and let me know if you are watching this show and what you thought!

Recipe: Kourabiedes (Greek Butter/Almond Cookies)

December 28, 2020

My dad has always loved this cookie. His sister made some the other day and was showing us over zoom and I could tell how much he wanted one --- so I looked up a recipe and asked him to make them with me. The cookies were great but I enjoyed the morning of making them with my dad even more.

What You'll NEED for cookies:


• 2 cups of sweet butter (room temperature)
• 2/3 cup blanched almonds (finely chopped)
• 1/2 cup confectioner's sugar (for batter) and extra for topping
• 2 egg yolks (lightly beaten)
• 1.5-2 ounces of brandy
• 1/3 cup of orange juice
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 4.5 cups of flour (sifted)

Other Supplies that You'll NEED:


• Electric Mixer
• Baking Sheet(s)
• Wax Paper

Pre-heat oven to 400°.

1. Blanche (peel) the almonds (if you didn't buy blanched almonds).   Easy way to do this - bring a pot of water to running boil. Put the almonds in for exactly 1 minute (not more and not less). Drain immediately and rinse with cold water. If you squeeze the almonds, the almond should pop out of the shell very easily.
2. Cream butter until very light. I used an electric stand mixer for about 10-15 minutes (yes, 10-15 minutes). You want the butter to be almost white and look like whipped cream
3. Beat in sugar, egg yolks, almonds, brandy & orange juice.
4. Sift Flour and Baking Powder together. Very important to sift.
5. Carefully blend the flour/baking powder mixture into the butter mixture.
6. Use a tablespoon to scoop out batter. 1 tablespoon of batter rolled into a ball is one cookie.
7. Optional: If you have leftover blanched almonds, you can consider hiding an almond inside each cookie (that's what we did!)
8. Bake at 400° for 18-20 minutes until light golden brown on top (make sure bottoms don't burn).
9. Sift confectioner's sugar onto a large sheet of wax paper.
10. When the cookies come out of the oven, carefully place the hot cookies on the wax paper on top of sugar.
11. Sift additional sugar over tops and sides (as much as you want/desire)
12. Cool thoroughly before storing

This recipe will make approximately 8-10 dozen small cookies.

These are easy to freeze and will keep for up to 6 months.

TO FREEZE: DO NOT coat in sugar. When they come out of the oven, cool them separately. Put them in a freezer safe container. When you want to use them, pull them out of the freezer and bake at 300° just until warm and then sugar them.

Movie Review: Ma Rainey's Black Bottom (Netflix)

December 27, 2020

Mom, Dad & I watched this tonight on Netflix.

This movie is based on Pulitzer Prize winner August Wilson's play. You may have seen Fences (another play of his). Denzel Washington has made it a goal to produce his work to the big screen and we are lucky that he is doing it.

The story of Ma Rainey's Black Bottom should definitely be told. Set in Chicago, 1927. A recording session. Tensions rise between Ma Rainey, her ambitious horn player and the white management determined to control the uncontrollable "Mother of the Blues".

So many themes in this movie that go hand in hand with what is happening in the world right now and this is set in 1927 --- shows how far we haven't come.

Viola Davis and Chadwick Boseman were simply amazing. I'm sure they will both be nominated for some awards and they truly deserve it. I hope he wins for his last performance. He was truly amazing --- especially when I think what he was battling personally while shooting this role.

For more information on Ma Rainey's Black Bottom, click the movie poster below.

Movie Review: Wonder Woman 1984 (HBO Max)

December 26, 2020

Mom, Dad & I watched this tonight on HBO Max.

If you liked the first one, you'll like this one.

It's another story about Wonder Woman and where her life is in 1984. The storyline is great and I enjoyed it.

The action scenes didn't disappoint. There is a fun extra at the end during the credits which could possibly set up another one. Either way, make sure you watch the credits.

For more information on WW84, click the movie poster below.

Movie Review: Greyhound (Apple TV+)

December 26, 2020

Mom, Dad & I watched this tonight on Apple TV+.

It was an intense movie from start to finish. If you like military/war movies, you'll love this one.

The story is about a first-time captain (Tom Hanks) who leads the escort contingent of a convoy of Allied ships carrying thousands of soldiers and tons of supplies across the treacherous waters of the "Black Pit" to Great Britain. With no air cover protection for four days, the commander and his convoy must battle the surrounding enemy submarines in order to help the Allies win the war.

What was interesting to me is that my dad was in the Navy and worked on an air craft carrier during a later war. This movie showed me how important air craft carriers were to the winning of the war. When they didn't have aircover, they had to go through this. At the end of the movie, it stated that during that war (WW II) they lost 3500 ships and 72,000 people in the Black Pit. It made me understand how important Air Craft Carriers were to the war effort.

For more information on Greyhound, click the movie poster below.

Recipe: Bailey's Irish Cream Chocolate Chip Cheesecake

December 26, 2020

I was super jealous at Thanksgiving because my sister in Florida had made this recipe and it looked so good and since we couldn't be together for the holidays I didn't get any.

She suggested that I make it for Christmas which I vowed to do despite never having made a cheesecake of any kind before. OMG.

This is by far the best cheesecake I think I've ever had and yes, I've had NY Cheesecake before. It is rich and decadent and everything a cheesecake should be.

What You'll NEED for crust:


• 1/2 cup toasted pecans (cooled & crushed)
• 2 cups of chocolate oreo cookie crumbs (it's ok to crush with the white filling inside)
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 6 tablespoons of melted butter

What You'll NEED for filling:


• 2.25 lbs (36 ounces) of cream cheese (room temperature)
• 1 2/3 cups of sugar
• 5 eggs (room temperature)
• 1 cup Bailey's Original Irish Cream
• 1 Tablespoon of vanilla
• 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips

What You'll NEED for Coffee Cream Topping (optional but delicious!):


• 2 cups chilled whipped cream
• 4 tablespoons of sugar
• 2 teaspoons of instant coffee powder
• Optional: Chocolate curls or English Toffee Bits for decoration

Other Supplies that You'll NEED:


• 10" Spring Form Pan
• any other oven safe pan to put water in

Pre-heat oven to 325°.

1. Mix the crust ingredients into a bowl: melted butter, oreo crumbs, crushed pecans and sugar until well blended.
2. Press into the 10"Spring Form pan and up the sides a little. It should be a thick bottom crust.
3. Bake just the crust at 325° for 7-10 minutes.

While the crust is baking, mix your filling ingredients together.

1. Beat cream cheese with electric mixer until smooth
2. Beat sugar in gradually and then add eggs one at a time
3. Blend inBailey's and vanilla
4. Sprinkle half of chocolate chips over crust.
5. Spoon in filling
6. Sprinkle the top with the remaining chocolate chips.
7. Bake at 325° for approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes or until puffed, springy in center and golden brown. Place a pan of water on the bottom rack of oven while the cheesecake is baking to keep it moist. I checked it at an hour to ensure it wasn't burning but it took 1 hour and 20 minutes. At 1 hour and 20 minutes, my cheesecake looked like a mushroom top in the oven (like it was going to boil over the pan) --- but within a few minutes of removing it from the oven, it had settled down and was fine.
8. Cool Cake Completely (overnight is best)

1. Beat all ingredients together: whipping cream, instant coffee, and sugar.
2. You can either spread over the top of the entire cooled cake and decorate with chocolate curls/toffee bits OR you can put the cream topping on the side for people to add to their own pieces.

This recipe will make approximately 12 good sized pieces of cheesecake. My mom, dad, and I each ate a piece and those 3 pieces took about 1/4 of the cake.

You will enjoy if you like Bailey's and Cheesecake. What could be better?

Movie Review: Soul (Disney +)

December 25, 2020

Mom, Dad & I watched this tonight on Disney Plus.

I loved the story. I cried. Then I laughed till I cried some more. I enjoyed every minute of it. So good.

I was especially interested in seeing this film because my friend Tia Fuller from Beyonce's Band was the musical genius behind the portrayal of the saxaphone player Dorothea Williams. Angela Bassett voiced the character but any time you hear her playing the saxaphone those are the stylings of my friend. She did a fantastic job.

For more information on Soul, click the movie poster below.

Movie Review: Jingle Jangle (Netflix)

December 24, 2020

Mom, Dad & I watched this tonight on Netflix.

It is a musical and it doesn't disappoint. I felt it was just the right even mix of dialogue and meaningful songs. The actors did a fantastic job and the story was very enjoyable.

For more information on Jingle Jangle, click the movie poster below.

Recipe: Best Chicken Wings

December 23, 2020

When I was a little girl, one of my favorite meals was a baked potato and chicken wings....but not just any chicken wings...It had to be these special chicken wings...these definitely had a kick but it was so good.

My favorite part of the meal was to take spoonful's of the sauce and pour it over my baked potato. OMG.

My family and I are doing appetizers tomorrow night for dinner so I thought I would share my favorite wing recipe. I usually double the recipe to ensure plenty of great sauce for my baked potato (leftovers)....but it's not necessary.

What You'll NEED:


• 2 sticks of butter (melted)
• 1 tablespoons of lemon juice
• 2 Teaspoons of flour
• 1/2-1 Teaspoon of Red pepper
• 1/2-1 Teaspoon of Black pepper
• 2 Teaspoons of Mustard
• 1 clove worth of garlic powder
• 1/2 Teaspoon sugar (or honey)
• 1/2 Teaspoon salt
• 1 cup of Red Wine Vinegar
• Chicken Wings (1 batch of sauce will usually cover 12-15 whole wings (24-30 smaller pieces)
• 9*13 baking pan
• Cooking Spray

Pre-heat oven to 375°.

1. Mix the melted butter, lemon juice, flour, red pepper, black pepper, mustard, garlic powder, sugar, and salt together. 
2. Stir in the Red Wine Vinegar. Mix until well blended.
3. Spray the 9*13 baking pan with cooking spray
4. Spread the raw chicken wings out in the pan. If they are "whole" chicken wings, it is easier to cut them in 2 when they are raw/cold.
5. Pour the sauce over the top of the chicken wings. Make sure to pour sauce over all chicken wings (it won't cover them).
6. Bake for 35-45 minutes at 375°. It is best to flip them once about halfway through the cooking time so that both sides are golden brown.
7. Serve hot.

My family always served the wings with a baked potato (and the sauce is amazing on a baked potato). Serve however you wish and Enjoy!  Tell me what you think!  They are not wings that need ranch or bleu cheese to serve with it --- these are great all on their own.

Tip: Leftover Sauce can go great over a baked potato the next day! We're planning on having baked potatoes on Christmas with Prime Rib so you best believe I will be enjoying some wing sauce on my potato.

Movie Review: The Trial of the Chicago 7 (Netflix)

December 22, 2020

Mom, Dad & I watched this tonight on Netflix.

I have been wanting to see this because Aaron Sorkin directed it and I love his work. This movie did not disappoint.

The movie tells the  story of 7 people on trial stemming from various charges surrounding the uprising at the 1968 Democratic National Convention in Chicago, Illinois. It's a true story and was very well done.

For more information on The Trial of the Chicago 7, click the movie poster below.

Movie Review: The Prom (Netflix)

December 22, 2020

Mom, Dad & I watched this tonight on Netflix.

It was a musical through and through. Most of the dialogue was sung. So if you aren't into musicals, you won't like it.

I enjoyed it for the most part. The story was great. The musical numbers were good but not over the top which I liked. James Corden and Meryl Streep didn't have good chemistry toward the beginning of the movie, but the more the movie went on, the better it got. I really enjoyed it overall, even though I'm not usually a big fan of musicals.

For more information on The Prom, click the movie poster below.

Rainbow Mandala

December 22, 2020

I colored another mandala today. I went with a rainbow theme today with some glitter in the middle.

Movie Review: Holidate (Netflix)

December 21, 2020

Mom, Dad & I watched this tonight on Netflix.

It was silly and predictable. There were funny scenes and there were romantic scenes. Overall a pretty reliable rom-com.

For more information on the movie Holidate, click the movie poster below.

Movie Review: Safety (Disney +)

December 21, 2020

Mom, Dad & I watched this tonight on Disney +.

I love true stories as I think they are so relateable. This movie tells the story of Ray-Ray McElrathbey, a freshman football player for Clemson University, who secretly brings his younger brother on campus after his mom gets put in rehab.

For more information on the movie Safety, click the movie poster below.

Another Mandala

December 21, 2020

I colored another mandala today. So relaxing. I recommend it if you ever have some downtime.

Clouds

December 21, 2020

Interesting cloud patterns in the sky at Lake Somerville today.

For more information about Lake Somerville State Park, click the photo above.

A New Mandala

December 20, 2020

I started this mandala yesterday and was able to finish it today. I finally found time to color again. It is such an amazing way to relax. Coloring a mandala is a lot like meditation to me. I just feel so relaxed afterwards.

I plan on doing one the next 2 days while we are camping as well. Going to enjoy some downtime while I have it.

Another Lake Somerville Sunrise

December 20, 2020

This was our view of the sunrise this morning from our campsite.

For more information about Lake Somerville State Park, click the photo above.

Pre-Christmas Camping Trip at Lake Somerville

December 19-23, 2020

Since we had such a good time in September, we booked a camping trip again this month to Lake Somerville.

This time we had a site right on the water which was pretty amazing. When we arrived, we decorated the campsite for Christmas including using a snow machine to make out campsite a Winter Wonderland. We won 1st place in the decorating contest!

There is a pic of our snowy campsite below along with a picture showing me relaxing in a hammock.

Recipe: Watergate Salad

December 18, 2020

In preparation for your Christmas holiday meals, I thought I would share another favorite recipe...but this time for something sweet!

My mom's friends Curtis & Sally made this "dessert" salad years ago and it became a family favorite in our household.

Feel free to double the recipe below if you have a large number of people. This will serve about 6 smaller servings. It keeps great in the fridge so don't be afraid of leftovers. You'll want more.

What You'll NEED:


• 1 9 ounce package of cool whip
• 1 package of Instant Pistachio Pudding Mix
• 1 can of mandarin oranges (drained)
• 1 can of crushed pineapple (NOT-Drained)
• 1 cup of miniature marshmallows.
• optional: 1/2 cup chopped pecans

1. Pour all ingredients into a bowl and stir together.
2. Put in the refrigerator in a closed container overnight to chill.

Serve and Enjoy!

Crazy Morning led to a New Experience

December 16, 2020

Today I woke up super early to go walk with 2 good friends of mine. We planned it almost 2 weeks ago and I've been looking forward to it as I hadn't seen one of those friends since before COVID-19 started.

We were walking around the trail at Lady Bird Lake and enjoying nice conversation with each other, when one of my friends realizes that her phone has fallen out of her pocket somewhere on the trail. We've been walking for an hour, so we start to panic that we don't know where it is. She starts retracing our steps. After 20 minutes or so we find her phone.

During that 20 minutes, our other friend had to continue on without us because she had to be at work at 10am for a meeting so she couldn't be late getting back. I had a Dr's Appointment for a blood draw at 10:10am and I quickly realized I wouldn't be on time either...so we did something that I never thought I would have a reason to do (why would I?  I own a car) --- but today we had a valid reason.

I rented one of those scooters that I see tossed around on the sides of the roads. My friend and I rode scooters the last part of the way back to make sure I stood a chance of making it to my appointment. We were both nervous as neither of us had ever ridden on them before. It was a ton of fun and way faster getting back than it would have been if we had walked it.

Enjoy the pics below...(For the record, I took my mask off for the pictures but was wearing a mask the rest of the time)

Binging Recommendation: The Queen's Gambit

December 15, 2020

Here's a recommendation that won't take up a lot of your time. I just finished a limited series available on Netflix. It's a show called the Queen's Gambit. 7 episodes. It was designed as a limited series show but due to popularity, I think there is some discussion of a potential 2nd season. However, it was originally based on a book and apparently covered the entire book in season 1 --- so there is no telling what will happen if they do a season 2.

Even if it is 1 season and done --- it's a great investment of time as it really is well done. I loved every minute of it and I loved how it ended.

It's hard to believe the main plot of the show involves chess tournaments --- but it really is enthralling to watch. Great show that I would highly recommend.

Email me and let me know if you are watching any of these shows and what you thought!

Dom is jealous...

December 14, 2020

This picture says it all. Nico is eating the ice cream stick....and Dom doesn't look happy.

Recipe: Chaffles

December 13, 2020

Last night my mom tells me she has a new waffle recipe she wants to try. She says it's not really waffles but eggs, cheese, etc. so I was skeptical but said fine.

Think literally a belgian waffle but the batter is made up of eggs, cheese, flour and baking powder. Cooked in a belgian waffle maker (just like a waffle would be). SO it's shaped like a waffle.

As I mixed the ingredients together I thought it was super weird and a weird consistency but it eventually looked like a batter (eggs, flour, baking powder) and then I stirred the cheese in.

Doesn't matter what the batter looked like --- these were so good and will probably be my new favorite breakfast food. They were soooo good and super easy to make! Probably took about 10 minutes total including the 3-5 minutes to pre-heat the waffle maker and about 2 minutes per "Chaffle"

What You'll NEED: (Makes approx: 3 belgian sized waffles - you could easily double the recipe.)


• 4 eggs
• 1.5 teaspoons of baking powder
• 1/2 cup of flour (recipe called for almond flour which we didn't have so we used regular and it was fine)
• 2 cups shredded cheese (your choice of cheese)
• Waffle Maker (I used a Waring Pro Belgian Waffle Maker)
• Cooking Spray

Pre-heat waffle maker.

1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and beat with a whisk.  
2. Mix in flour and baking powder until mostly smooth.
3. Stir in cheese with a spoon.
4. Once the belgian waffle iron is pre-heated, spray with cooking spray.
5. Pour/spoon about 1/3 of batter into the middle of the waffle maker and close lid.
6. Cook the same amount of time you would cook your waffles (approx 2 minutes in my waffle maker).
7. I sprayed the waffle maker each time I cooked one to ensure that they didn't stick.
8. Serve hot. Top with your preferred topping or nothing at all. My dad used syrup, my mom used butter, I took mine dry. ALL DELICIOUS!

Serve and Enjoy!  Tell me what you think!  Totally different than a traditional belgian waffle --- different flavor --- but sooo good.

Binging Update & Recommendation

December 6, 2020

A show that I recommended last year, Virgin River, has returned with a second season on Netflix. I'm more than halfway through the 2nd season already and it's great. Just as good as the first season was. It's a feel good show which just the right amount of drama to keep things interesting.

I also just finished binge-watching the first 2 seasons of Jack Ryan on Amazon Prime. While some of the characters are the same from season to season, the storyline is completely separate from one season to the next so you know that after only 8 episodes you will find resolution to the show. I like that about this show. It's going to be a long wait until season 3 as they won't film it until 2021 and it's looking like a 2022 release.

As I was online trying to find more information about Season 3 of Jack Ryan, I learned something. Before Amazon Prime turned the Tom Clancy books into a TV show, there were 5 Jack Ryan movies made with very popular actors over the last 20 years. Most of these movies I had even heard of, just didn't know that they were Jack Ryan movies. So I think I know what my family and I will be trying to watch over the holidays.

• The Hunt for Red October - 1990 (Alec Baldwin as Jack Ryan)
• Patriot Games - 1992 (Harrison Ford as Jack Ryan)
• Clear and Present Danger - 1994 (Harrison Ford as Jack Ryan)
• The Sum of All Fears - 2002 (Ben Affleck as Jack Ryan)
• Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit - 2014 (Chris Pine as Jack Ryan)
• Jack Ryan TV Series (Amazon Prime) - 2018 (John Krasinski as Jack Ryan)

Email me and let me know if you are watching any of these shows and what you thought!

Recipe: Gluten-Free Cornbread Stuffing

December 1, 2020

In preparation for your Christmas holiday meals, I thought I would share this favorite recipe...

My mom went gluten-free for a short while about 10 years ago. She made this "gluten-free" cornbread stuffing for Thanksgiving and before I tried it I complained to her why we had to be gluten free too and that I wanted real stuffing. She told me to try it and I did and OMG! I've asked her to make it every year since.

I even made it for Thanksgiving in Amarillo one year to take to a potluck and when I say Gluten-free everyone just looked at me funny --- but it was ALL GONE when we left. Everyone loved it. My best friend even loved it and she didn't want to even try it.

What You'll NEED:


• Loaf of Gluten Free Cornbread (Bob's Red Mill Mix is what I used to make the cornbread)
• Loaf of Gluten Free White Bread (18 ounces)
• 8 tablespoons of Butter
• 1 cup onions chopped
• 4 cups of chicken stock
• 5 eggs beaten
• Salt & Pepper to taste
• Italian Seasonings to taste
• 9X13 baking dish
• Cooking Spray

Pre-heat oven to 350°.

1. Cube the GF White Bread & spread on 1 even layer on baking sheet. Toast the cubes at 350° for 8-10 minutes. Let Cool.
2. Crumble the cornbread in large bowl.
3. Add bread cubes to cornbread and combine thoroughly.
4. Pre-heat the oven again but this time to 375°.
5. Melt butter in large skillet. Add onions and saute for 7 minutes.
6. Put bread mixture in a 9x13 baking dish (sprayed/greased).
7. Spread veggies over bread mixture in baking dish.
8. Add chicken stock and mix well (in pan).
9. Season with salt, pepper, or italian seasonings.
10. Add beaten eggs to mix until well incorporated.
11. Bake for 35-45 minutes at 375° or until stuffing is set & golden!

Serve and Enjoy! You'll be thanking me - I promise.

Movie Review: Happiest Season (Hulu)

November 30, 2020

I was looking for a holiday movie to watch last night and I stumbled onto the Happiest Season on Hulu.

I thought it was romantic and cute and not necessarily predictable. It is an LGBTQ+ movie and if you look at it as another coming out movie, then you might be disappointed. I enjoyed it for what it was - a cute romantic holiday movie about 2 people in love and the hardships they go through at times.

Recipe: Creamed Turkey

November 20, 2020

PERFECT for Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey. This is literally my favorite meal ---- it would be the answer to what do I want my last meal to be....it's that good!!!!

Serves 4 people. Cut recipe in 1/2 for only 2 people

What You'll NEED:


• 1/2 cup of butter
• 1/2 cup of flour
• 4 cups of evaporated milk
• 2 chopped turkey breasts (leftover bits of turkey from a Thanksgiving Turkey works great!)
• 2 packages of Pepperidge Fram Pastry SHELLS (1 person usually eats 2 shells --- 3 if you are really hungry)

You start by preheating the oven and putting the pastry shells in the pre-heated oven (they take about 20-25 mins to cook). Follow Directions on Package.  Oven MUST be pre-heated.

Next you'll be making a basic white cream sauce while the pastry shells cook. If you start at the same time, then the sauce should be ready when the pastries are done.

1. Melt 1/2 cup of butter in a pot.
2. Slowly stir in 1/2 cup of flour mixing it with the flour so it doesn't burn. You'll end up with a paste in your pan.
3. VERY SLOWLY stir in Evaporated Milk (4 cups). You'll want to do this very slowly --- so that it evenly mixes --- otherwise you'll have clumps.
4. Simmer over a medium heat. STIRRING CONSTANTLY. You don't want it to burn - so you must stir.
5. It will gradually thicken. Once the sauce has thickened, you'll add the chopped turkey.
6. Continue to stir for about 5 more minutes to heat the turkey all the way through.

Serve sauce over pastry shells. Garnish as necessary.

Serve and Enjoy!

My thoughts on Fall TV Premieres

November 18, 2020

Over the course of the last few weeks quite a few of my favorite shows such as Chicago Fire, Grey's Anatomy, This is Us, The Good Doctor, etc. have returned to television. TV shows look different now as most of them have had to incorporate the pandemic in some way. For medical shows that's easy as they can focus on the pandemic. However, that's not a long term solution as we look to television to escape reality and not have it thrown in our faces.

The other theme I've seen popping up in the majority of the shows that have returned is Black Lives Matter. I am very glad this is getting discussed and getting attention as I think the more we can talk about change the more likely it is to happen, so I'm glad that they are incorporating such tough subject matter into shows. The Neighborhood on CBS premiered a few days ago and it was a powerful episode. It's a sitcom about 2 families (one black and one white) and that's where most of their jokes have come from in the last two seasons. In the season opener, they addressed BLM in the entire episode and it was powerful (for me) to watch the white family feel emotional and helpless watching their friends go through the cop brutality that one of them experiences which leads to a protest. I think they took on powerful subject matter for a sitcom and I think they did a great job.

However, I do have a pretty big complaint for almost all of the shows that have come back --- they are all guilty of it. They show their cast wearing masks and protective gear but they also show them pulling down masks or taking them off completely in situations that they shouldn't be. For example on Law and Order: SVU, the detectives go to interview a subject in the hallway of a public building and all 3 of them take off their masks to talk. They were definitely not social distanced and I worry about what kind of message this sends to the public --- that masks are necessary but that you can take them off to talk. NO YOU CAN'T. That defeats the whole purpose of them.

I'm very grateful, however, for the return of these shows and the entertainment it provides. Even if the episodes are going to be sporadic and few and far between. After only 2 episodes of each of my Chicago shows (Med, Fire & PD) - they won't be back until January. I can only hope that they will in fact be back in January and that production doesn't shut down again. However, I hope they are all being safe and cautious as they try to keep America entertained.

Email me and let me know if you are watching any of these shows and what you thought!

Oreo

November 17, 2020

I had an interesting task added to my work to do list this week. I was responsible for "putting up the horse every night." Now, this is unusual because until yesterday, having a horse on campus at school would be weird. Now it's just fun.

Yesterday, our Eco-Wellness teachers were out on the hiking trails and spotted a miniature horse out on the trail and he followed them back to campus. Thanks to Facebook posts and the beauty of Social Media, we've located the owner but he's agreed to let us keep Oreo on campus for this week.

Every night I get to walk him across campus over to the chicken coop to put him up for the night. He's a sweet horse and I will miss him when he leaves to go home. Maybe we can convince the owner to bring him back to visit...

Nico is sad...

November 3, 2020

Every since Emily left last week, I keep finding Nico looking very sad...

Live Concert: Michael Franti - Live From Bali

October 30, 2020

2020 was not a good year for live music. The pandemic halted concerts and gatherings. However, one of my favorite artists, Michael Franti, has been doing a live concert series once a month from Bali where his family is currently. This started in June when he released his new album "Work Hard and Be Nice" and then they just kept going. We have one more left in November --- but I hope he announces more.

In addition to having great music, he invites the first 500 people who buy tickets to a zoom room to be a part of the live stream. Then he comes into the Zoom room after the show to chat and answer questions. He's so genuine and wants to connect with his fans. We've been invited to participate in Zoom for every time show since July.

Tonight's show was bittersweet as Emily is now back in Brazil so we could only have her with us via video chat instead of in person to dance around the living room with.

For more about the music of Michael Franti, click on the photos above.

Starting Back to "In Person" School

October 27, 2020

Today I started back to work in person at ADS. I have mixed feelings about it. I loved seeing people again especially my kiddos in Aftercare, but I also hate that it is such a high risk.

Now that I'm back at work in person, I'm going to have to be extra careful around my parents and wearing a mask to ensure that they don't get exposed because of me. It's a weird feeling to know that now I can potentially expose my parents and those around me. I've been living in a COVID bubble since March without seeing very many people at all. So it feels really weird to be around people again.

I'm proud of the ADS Admin team and the safety precautions we've put in place for COVID. It's been a lot of work to prepare to open. I think the precautions are good. I think they will make a difference but I guess only time will tell.

Saying Goodbye Again

October 26, 2020

Due to some really unfortunate circumstances, Emily left today to go back to Brazil to quarantine there. I'm going to miss her a lot. She's made the last 7 months of quarantine bearable. The picture below was taken at the airport earlier today. Trying to smile through the tears.

Emily was holding court...

October 22, 2020

They were hanging on her every word....because she had greenies...

Zilker Botanical Gardens

October 21, 2020

Today we decided to go explore Zilker Botanical Gardens and since they are all outside, we felt pretty safe doing so. I would recommend a visit just to get out and be immersed in nature. Despite taking them off for some pictures, we had our masks on the majority of time just in case we saw other people.

Recipe: Vegetarian Enchiladas in a Poblano Cream Sauce

October 20, 2020

I got this recipe from my tenant in my rental house. She's a vegetarian and said it was so good. I will definitely be making it again because she was right!!! I added shredded chicken to it since I'm not vegetarian, but I'm sure it would be delicious without the chicken.

Serves 4-5 people (2 enchiladas a piece). You will want leftovers, so don't be fooled into trying to make less! 

It does take a lot to prep this dish, but it's totally worth the time in my opinion.

What You'll NEED:


• 4 poblano peppers
• 1/2 cup of cilantro
• 1/2 cup of heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons of butter
• 1/2 cup of vegetable stock
• 1/2 teaspoon of groound coriander
• 10 taco sized tortillas
• 1 cup of frozen corn (thawed)
• 1 small yellow onion (roughly chopped)
• 1 clove garlic (roughly chopped)
• 1/2 cup of sour cream
• 1 tablespoon of flour
• 4 cups Monterey Jack Cheese (divided)
• 15 ounces canned pino beans (rinsed & drained)
• 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
• 1/4-1/2 cup Cotija Cheese
• OPTIONAL: 3 chicken breasts, shredded

1. Prepare the Poblanos.

• Cut the poblanos in half (or quarters) so that they will lay flat on a baking sheet. Place SKIN up on a baking sheet. Broil until charred (about 5 minutes).
• After removing the peppers from the oven, immediately transfer them to a heat safe bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Let rest for 10 minutes.
• The steaming after the oven helps you easily remove the skins for adding to the sauce.
• After the 10 minutes, peel the skins off the poblanos and discard the skins.   The “meat” of the poblano is what you need for the recipe (Don’t worry if there’s a little skin left on them --- it doesn’t have to be perfect).


2. How to make the Poblano Cream Sauce

One thing to note, after the first time I made it, I think I will do 1.5-2 times the ingredient list above to make more sauce. So adding 1 more Poblano pepper and doing more of the cream sauce ingredients to make more sauce (even doubling it) would probably be beneficial as the sauce is delicious and trust me you'll want more.

• Place the roasted poblano peppers, cilantro, onion, garlic, heavy cream and sour cream in a food processor and process until just combined.
• Make a Roux: Melt butter in a sauce pan, then add flour. Cook, stirring for 1 minute.
• Add the poblano mixture and cook for a few minutes.
• Add vegetable stock and 1 ½ cups of the Monterrey Jack Cheese. – bring to a bubble and cook, stirring frequently, for 5-10 minutes


3. Assemble the Filling

• In a large bowl combine beans, corn, 1 cup of monterrey jack cheese, cumin, coriander and ¼ cup of cream sauce
• You can add 2-3 big chicken breasts shredded to this mixture to make them chicken enchiladas --- if you do this, you’ll need to add 1/2-3/4 cup of sauce to mixture (instead of 1/4 cup).
• Make sure filling is covered but it shouldn’t be smothered in sauce.
• Spray/grease baking pan.
• Spoon into flour tortillas, rolling tightly and placing in a 9*13 inch baking dish seam side down


4. Finish off Enchiladas

• Top the filled enchiladas with the remaining cream sauce. Use 1.5 cups of Monterrey Jack cheese on top of sauce as well as the crumbled cotija cheese.


5. Bake Enchiladas in 350° pre-heated oven for 20-25 minutes

Serve and Enjoy!

Dom wants a bath

October 16, 2020

He wants a bath until he realizes what that means...

Mia gets the "Upper" view...

October 16, 2020

Dom & Nico were curled up in the crib in my spare bedroom. No room for Mia so she decided to climb to the upper shelf and stare down at them. The death stare she was giving them is priceless.

TV Binge Recommendation: Cobra Kai

October 15, 2020

If you are my age, then like me, you probably watched and enjoyed the Karate Kid Movies growing up. If so, then I've definitely got a show recommendation for you: Cobra Kai on Netflix.

Cobra Kai picks up decades after their 1984 All Valley Karate Tournament bout. A middle-aged Daniel LaRusso and Johnny Lawrence find themselves martial-arts rivals again.

I enjoyed watching this so much because of the way they are able to intertwine the flashback scenes (from the movies). It's pretty amazing that they were able to get the entire cast back together to do this some 30 years later. Obviously Mr. Miyagi is not in Cobra Kai as Pat Morita passed away in 2005, but you feel like he is because of the flashback scenes that are included. I feel this honors the memory of some of my favorite childhood movies but at the same time brings them into the present day and continues the story.

Seasons 1 & 2 of Cobra Kai are available on Netflix. Season 3 will premiere on January 8, 2021.

If you are watching, Email me and let me know what you thought of the Season 2 cliffhanger and any thoughts you might have on what's going to happen in Season 3!

Dom is just hanging out...

October 15, 2020

He was just hanging out...

May I have your attention please?

October 13, 2020

All 3 cats at attention...

Dad's 74th Birthday

October 7, 2020

Today is my dad's birthday. To celebrate, we went to pick up food from Phil's Ice House. We ordered to go but when we arrived there was no one sitting out on their patio so we decided to eat there on the patio.

Dom trying to Flirt

October 4, 2020

He failed if he was trying to flirt.

What are they up to?

October 2, 2020

I felt like I interrupted something...

Movie Fun: Karate Kid

September 30, 2020

I have been hearing about this new show on Netflix called Cobra Kai and when I heard it was a continuation of the Karate Kid movies, I knew I wanted to watch it as I enjoyed all of the films when I was a kid. I decided though that I would need to rewatch the original movies to really go back in time to remember them.

I got to enjoy them all over again. Mr. Miyagi's teachings are the best.

I watched all 4 movies (yes I even watched The Next Karate Kid with Hilary Swank). Now I'm ready to watch Cobra Kai. I hope it's good. I'm sure I'll post about Cobra Kai in a few weeks on my TV blog.

Lake Somerville Sunrise

September 25, 2020

We woke up early to see the sunrise over the lake.

For more information about Lake Somerville State Park, click the photo above.

Camping at Lake Somerville

September 23-27, 2020

Due to the pandemic, we haven't been traveling as much as we used to. After a very long dry spell, we decided to take the RV out to go camping close by so we decided to try out Lake Somerville. It's about 90 minutes away. Super easy drive and it was worth it! So much fun and very relaxing!

Mom, Emily & I went hiking/walking every day but we also relaxed around the campsite in the hammocks. We took the boat out to the lake one day as well.. Below are a few pictures from the trip.               

Recipe: Zucchini & Carrot Fritters

September 20, 2020

My sister found this recipe online and we made it about a month ago and we've made them weekly ever since. They are sooo good and a great side item. It reminds me of a hashbrown patty made out of Zucchini and Carrots.

What You'll NEED:


• 1 can of chick peas (rinsed & drained)
• 1 large carrot (shredded)
• 1 large zucchini (shredded)
• 2 eggs
• 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
• garlic powder, salt & onion powder to season
• oil for pan (our choice was sunflower oil, but you could easily use Olive Oil)

1. Shred the carrot and zucchini on a grater like you would shred cheese (short slices). Remove as much excess water as you can from zucchini and carrots (use a cheese cloth or paper towels). Really squeeze out the water.
2. You'll need to crush the chickpeas with a fork in the bowl. Make sure they are nice and smashed.
3. Mix all ingredients together: chick peas, carrot, zucchini, eggs, and panko.
4. Add seasonings of your choice: I sprinkled in garlic powder, onion powder and salt.
5. Make patties out of the mixture that are about 1/4-1/2 inch think. Don't have to be perfect. I do this by hand so they vary in size.
6. Heat Oil in pan.
7. Once oil is hot, then take the patties and pan fry them until they are golden brown on both sides (usually about 3-5 mins per side.) Feel free to flip to ensure they don't burn.
8. Enjoy!

If you have leftovers, I have taken the leftovers and baked them in the oven to reheat them and they've turned out great.

Movie Tribute: Chadwick Boseman

September 15, 2020

I was very saddened to learn of the death of Chadwick Boseman. I always enjoyed his movies.

I decided to spend the last few weeks watching some of his movies to honor his life.

Here's a list of what I watched (and my brief thoughts!)

Previously Seen:


• Black Panther - Great movie
• Draft Day - enjoyable. He only has a small role.
• 21 Bridges - Predictable but enjoyable.

Watched for the First Time:


• 42 - Biopic of Jackie Robinson - EXCELLENT
• Marshall - Biopic of Thurgood Marshall - EXCELLENT
• Get On Up - Biopic of James Brown - EXCELLENT
• Da Five Bloods - great movie available on Netflix

As I look back on his short career, he played some fantastic roles and got to tell the stories of greats like James Brown, Jackie Robinson and Thurgood Marshall. There are actors with careers that are 3 times as long as his and will never portray such iconic roles. He had a tremendous impact on the films he did and his loss will be felt for years to come.

Dom joined my Admin Meeting Today

September 14, 2020

He wanted to be included.

What's on your bucket list? What's the #1 thing you want to accomplish before you die?

September 8, 2020

My Bucket List is on going. It changes all the time as things get added to it and I try to accomplish things all the time. You can view my Bucket List by clicking the icon below.

My #1 goal is complicated as it is to be a mom (adopt a child). I've already become a mom so one could say I've accomplished my goal but I want to have a forever child in my home.

Goodbye Sweet Chloe

August 24, 2020

We said goodbye to our sweet Chloe this morning. She crossed the rainbow bridge. It was a tearful goodbye but she let us know it was time. We will have to use pictures to remember her beautiful soul. She was such a special dog. She was surrounded by love.

Dom as a Cowboy...

August 19, 2020

He's serious about his riding skills...

Mom's 75th birthday

August 16, 2020

Tomorrow is mom's 75th birthday. To celebrate, we rented a boat today that we could be alone on and brought along brunch to hang out on Lady Bird Lake. Very relaxing and something memorable that we could do during the pandemic while being safe.

Movie Fun: Catching up on Older Movies

August 13, 2020

When the pandemic hit in mid-March, my visits to the movie theater stopped. This made me very sad as it was a weekly occurance for me to go to the theaters (sometimes 2-3 times a week). I was missing my movie watching tremendously.

So I decided to make a list of all of the older movies that I wanted to see but never had time to watch.

This summer I've been slowly making my way through the list. Here's a list of what I've seen so far (and my brief thoughts!)

• The Big Lebowski - weird, but glad I finally saw it.
• The Godfather (Parts 1-3) - great movies
• Shawshank Redemption - Fantastic movie. If you haven't seen it - WATCH IT!
• Primal Fear - very good
• The Outsiders - enjoyable
• Rain Man - excellent film
• Moonstruck - fun and enjoyable
• My Cousin Vinny - very enjoyable
• Awakenings - Great film
• The Fisher King - interesting. Robin Williams was great.
• Mystic Pizza - very cute.
• Snowden - thought provoking.

I also made a list of movies I wanted to watch again as it had been too long and I remembered enjoying them.

• The Game - None of my family had ever seen this movie so I was thrilled to share it with them --- it's a movie I always recommended to people when I worked at Blockbuster and everyone always loved it.
• Father's Day - Robin Williams is SO FUNNY!
• The Pelican Brief - Suspenseful!
• The Firm - great thriller
• What's Up Doc - classic
• City Slickers - just as funny all these years later
• Oceans 11, Oceans 12 & Oceans 13 - I love the twists & turns in the Oceans series.
• Hamilton - I saw it live on stage but when it premiered on Disney Plus I knew I wanted to watch it again. It was even better as I could turn on the closed captioning and I felt like I could understand and catch everything.

Nico doesn't want to leave...

August 8, 2020

Nico doesn't want to leave to go home so he's holding on tight. I'll have to drag him to the car.

Three Muskateers together again...

July 23, 2020

Another great picture of them all together on a bed.

Binge Watching during the Pandemic

July 18, 2020

The normal TV drought that is the summer will likely go on for awhile due to the pandemic, so I've got some suggestions of great shows to binge watch that I started (and finished) this summer.

• Homeland (Hulu)
• West Wing (Netflix)
• Marvelous Mrs. Maisel (Amazon)
• Sweet Magnolias (Netflix)
• Glee (Netflix)
• Dead to Me (Netflix)
• The Kominsky Method (Netflix)
• Unorthodox (Netflix) - Limited Series - just 4 episodes. Worth the watch.
• Heartland (Seasons 1-11 on Netflix; Seasons 12-14 haven't been released yet to Netflix.)

However, my biggest recommendation is for a show called Money Heist on Netflix. It's a spanish show so it's in another language (but turn on the Dubbed in English version and I promise you can't tell a difference). It's the story of a group of people who come together to pull off the robbery of the century --- to rob the Spanish Mint. Not by stealing the bank's money, but by printing their own money. It is such a powerful story and the cast is so amazing. There are 4 seasons and the fifth and final season is being filmed as we speak (no release date). It's worth the time. No famous actors but it's so good. I cannot say enough good things about this show. It's definitely for mature audiences --- so not ok for kids.

Email me and let me know if you are watching any of these shows and what you thought!

Recipe: Clam Dip

June 27, 2020

This is a great appetizer for a party.

What You'll NEED for the Clam Dip:


• 1 24 ounce carton of cottage cheese
• 1 8 ounce package of cream cheese
• 1 can minced clams (drained almost all the way - leave a little juice)
• A dash of Worchestire Sauce
• Garlic Salt
• Dill

1. Mix Cream Cheese & Cottage cheese together.
2. Add clams with a little juice from the can.
3. Add dash of worchestire sauce.
4. Season as desired with garlic salt and dill to taste (I'm heavy on the dill)
5. Enjoy!

Make sure you have crackers or chips to use to taste test for the seasonings. If you are gluten free, it's great for dipping veggies too. It's great to serve right away, but I prefer to let it chill in the refrigerator for awhile so it's nice and cold. It would last for days except everyone in our household love to eat it so it never lasts longer than 2-3 days in our fridge.

Socially-Distanced Drive-By Birthday

June 23, 2020

Today is my birthday. This is not normally how I would celebrate my birthday. When I think back to 2 years ago with a huge celebration, it makes me sad. But today we are making lemonade out of the lemons. My parents decorated my house for my "drive by" birthday party. Friends drove by wishing me well. My mom also surprised me with a surprise Zoom Call so that friends from around the country could wish me a happy birthday over video chat. It was a lot of fun. Overall a great and definitely memorable birthday.

Movie Fun: My favorite movies from Every Year I've been alive

June 22, 2020

I've officially been on the earth for 42 years tomorrow. It got me thinking about 42 years of movies I've enjoyed.

Here's my own Personal Movie of the Year List (for every year I have lived). Some years had a few movies worth noting but I limited it to 5 at most...please keep in mind this is my own personal list and I'm not saying that there aren't other good or worthy movies that were released during these years ---- but these are my personal favorites. I bolded my top 5 overall.

• 1978 - Grease
• 1979 – Black Stallion and Hair
• 1980 – Somewhere in Time and Urban Cowboy
• 1981 – Raiders of the Lost Ark
• 1982 – ET, Annie, Grease 2, and Secret of Nimh
• 1983 – Terms of Endearment
• 1984 – Sixteen Candles
• 1985 – The Goonies, Back to the Future, Breakfast Club, and Summer Rental
• 1986 – Stand By Me, Pretty in Pink, and Short Circuit
• 1987 – Dirty Dancing, Overboard, Adventures in Babysitting, Can’t Buy Me Love and The Secret of My Success (The Princess Bride is a close 6th)
• 1988 – Beaches, Beetlejuice, Willow, Who Framed Roger Rabbit and Twins
• 1989 – Steel Magnolias, Dead Poets Society, Look Who’s Talking, and She’s out of control
• 1990 – Pretty Woman, Ghost, Dances with Wolves and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (original)
• 1991 – Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves and Point Break
• 1992 – The Bodyguard and Aladdin
• 1993 – Chantilly Lace and Jurassic Park
• 1994 – Forrest Gump, Shawshank Redemption, Speed
• 1995 – Before Sunrise and Dangerous Minds
• 1996 – Up Close & Personal, Birdcage and Foxfire
• 1997 – Life is Beautiful, Chasing Amy, The Game and Good Will Hunting
• 1998 – Patch Adams and What Dreams May Come
• 1999 – Message in a Bottle and Girl Interrupted
• 2000 – Gone in 60 Seconds, Centerstage, Coyote Ugly and Love & Basketball
• 2001 – The Fast and the Furious, Save the Last Dance and What Matters Most
• 2002 – 8 Mile, Blue Crush, Big Fat Greek Wedding and XXX
• 2003 – 2 Fast 2 Furious and A Man Apart
• 2004 – The Notebook and Before Sunset
• 2005 – Brokeback Mountain and Hostage
• 2006 – Cars, Da Vinci Code, Step Up and Dreamgirls
• 2007 – Death at a Funeral
• 2008 – Twilight and Sex & The City
• 2009 – Fast & Furious, Up, Blind Side, and 500 Days of Summer
• 2010 – Inception and The Last Song
• 2011 – The Intouchables and Fast Five
• 2012 – Pitch Perfect, Les Miserables and Twilight Sage: Breaking Dawn – Part 2
• 2013 – Fast & Furious 6, Before Midnight, Frozen and Dallas Buyer's Club
• 2014 – Selma and Gone Girl
• 2015 – Furious 7, Inside Out and Room
• 2016 – Finding Dory, Moana, Me Before You, Elle and Hidden Figures
• 2017 – Fate of the Furious, Coco, Wonder Woman, The Greatest Showman
• 2018 - Black Panther, A Star is Born, The Hate U Give, Green Book and BlacKkKlansman
• 2019 - Best of Enemies, Spies in Disguise, 1917, JoJo Rabbit and Parasite
• 2020 - Onward (More to add I'm sure when November/December hits if theaters have opened back up...)

Three Muskateers

May 30, 2020

They must like each other because every time I turn around they are together somewhere --- on the bed, on the stairs, on the couch....they are hanging out together a lot.

Nico doesn't want me to leave...

May 26, 2020

He's guarding my suitcase to keep me from going anywhere...

TV Show Finales during the Pandemic

May 19, 2020

Obviously most of our TV shows ended in a very strange way because they weren't the traditional season cliff hangers that we the viewers are used to. Usually there is that huge cliff hanger that has you screaming at the TV because you have to wait 4 months before you will get to see what happens next. This year there wasn't a lot of that.

However, there were 2 shows that I want to call attention to for getting extremely creative during the pandemic.

Blacklist Season Finale was halfway done being shot when production closed down. Not wanting to not finish the episode, they hired people to animate the characters for the scenes that they had left to shoot and just recorded the actors voices so that they didn't have to be in the same room with each other. They had shot over half the episode so it only went to animation when it needed to --- so it was interesting to see how the animation was woven in/out of the real scenes they shot before production closed. If you are a fan of the Blacklist --- this will be something to enjoy for awhile.

The other show as All Rise. This was it's first season (it got renewed and is worth the time to binge it if you want). It shot an entire episode on Zoom. It was a great episode because they were showing the new norms of having court via Zoom and how much harder things are when everything has to be done on Zoom. It was a very cool tribute to the pandemic.

Email me and let me know if you are saw either of these episodes and what you thought!

Silver Linings - Family Zoom

May 17, 2020

Since this pandemic started in March, the Gianakos family has gotten together and zoomed every Sunday at 3pm. Prior to the pandemic, we would see each other at family reunions or family events. We're all close and really enjoy spending time together. The pandemic just showed us that there is technology that can allow us to keep in touch better.

This is something I look forward to each week and really enjoy spending an hour or so on zoom with my family. We talk about the pandemic or about life in general or about what we want to do when the pandemic is over and whose house we are visiting first (my Aunt Denise just built a new house.)

It's weird to say but I'm thankful to the pandemic for bringing our family closer during this awful time. I don't see this tradition changing anytime soon --- even after the pandemic is over. Not every family member makes it every week, but we all come when we can and enjoy the company of whomever is able to join us for that week.

If I haven't said it lately, I'm lucky to be a part of such an amazing family.

Puzzles

April 29, 2020

We are obsessed with puzzles. We started and finished the purple one on the left back in March. The one on the right is the one we finished today. We've done like 10 already.

The Lake

April 27, 2020

We're lucky that my parents live in such a beautiful place that we get to enjoy this scenery...

My cats have found the stairs

April 22, 2020

We finally let the cats explore the stairs today and they had so much fun running up and down the stairs. They were fascinated by them. I don't have stairs at my house so this was a new experience for them.

Seen on my hike this week

April 21, 2020

I've been hiking daily with my mom and sister just to get out of the house. This week, while hiking, I saw a bee and a butterfly and wanted to share...

Dom's a Card Player

April 16, 2020

We were playing cards tonight and my sister snapped this photo. Dom wanted to get in on the card action.

Nico

April 9, 2020

I woke up to this. I opened my eyes and this cute furball is what I saw.

Recipe: Sausage Balls

April 4, 2020

Comfort food in our family consists of Sausage Balls and Macaroni and Cheese. The Sausage balls we make by hand, but we usually just make boxed macaroni and cheesi (lately I prefer the White Cheddar Boxed Mac that you can get at HEB).

What You'll NEED for the Sausage Balls:


• 3 cups of Bisquick
• 1 pound of Hot or Mild Sausage (your choice)
• 10 ounces of sharp cheddar cheese

Pre-heat oven to 350°.

1. Grate cheese and work into sausage.
2. Then work in the bisquick until moist.
3. Form into small balls and put on cookie sheet.
4. Bake 15 mins in the 350° pre-heated oven.
5. Enjoy!

You can easily make and bake these and then freeze them. They stay good for a long time in the freezer and can be reheated in the microwave for a quick and easy dinner.

The Uncanceled Project

April 1, 2020

There is a company called Run The Edge who puts on virtual races each year. I'm currently signed up for their 2020 in 2020 race which is walking 2,020 miles in 2020. A few days ago, in light of the pandemix, they announced a new virtual event called the "Un-Canceled Project." The series is completely free of charge and open to all who want to participate. Each week you choose a race (or 2 or 3!) that you want to challenge yourself to do that week.

I've decided that I want to challenge myself to do a 5k and a 10k every week in April. Here's the first of hopefully many bibs for this project.

If you want to learn more about the Uncancelled Project or Run the Edge, click the Bib Above.

Adjusting to Grammy and Papou's House

March 31, 2020

I'm quarantining at my parents house so we moved the kitties here a few days ago. I think they are adjusting well.

Movie Review: I Still Believe

March 13, 2020

I saw I Still Believe tonight with Sheri.

I've always loved Britt Robertson as a young actress so it's not surprising that I enjoyed this film. Definitely a tear jerker.

It is the true-life story of Christian music star Jeremy Camp and his journey of love and loss that looks to prove there is always hope.

For more information on I Still Believe, click the movie poster below.

Movie Review: The Way Back

March 10, 2020

I saw The Way Back tonight with Sheri.

I enjoyed the movie and thought it was realistic. Ben Affleck was great.

It was the story of a guy who was a basketball phenomenon in High School but he walked away from the game as a whole, forfeiting his future. Years later, he reluctantly accepts a coaching job at his alma mater and he may get his shot at redemption.

For more information on The Way Back, click the movie poster below.

Movie Review: Onward

March 6, 2020

I saw Onward tonight with Jennifer and some of her friends.

I always love Disney movies but this one was just great. It was funny, emotional, and great --- like most Disney movies. Great role models for how siblings should be. I would highly recommend it. Have a tissue close as you will likely cry.

For more information on Onward, click the movie poster below.

Movie Review: Call of the Wild

March 3, 2020

Dad & I saw Call of the Wild tonight.

I loved the story even though parts of it were unrealistic but overall it was very good. Harrison Ford was great in it and I loved the special effects. I felt like I could feel the emotions of the dog.

For more information on Call of the Wild, click the movie poster below.

Photoshop Midterm

February 28, 2020

Today I was working on my photoshop midterm. I took 2 photos and combined them. In one photo, Dom & Mia were looking at the camera and in the other photo Nico was looking at the camera.  I combined them to make a great photo (see below). I really like the way it turned out.

Movie Review: The Photograph

February 18, 2020

Sheri & I saw the Photograph tonight.

Anyone who knows me knows I'm a hopeless romantic so I love anything with a good romance. This movie had intertwining/overlapping love stories which I thoroughly enjoyed. It was predictable but I didn't care.

For more information on the Photograph, click the movie poster below.

Movie Review: Downhill

February 17, 2020

The previews looked good, but the main couple in this movie had zero chemistry. Will Ferrell fell flat in this very dramatic role. Julia Louis-Dreyfus' character was great but not enough for me to recommend anyone else seeing this movie. Totally skip it.

For more information on Downhill, click the movie poster below.

Movie Review: Sonic the Hedgehog

February 17, 2020

I was expecting a cheesy kids movie based on a video game and it didn't disappoint. It was certainly enjoyable if you know what you are in for.

For more information on Sonic the Hedgehog, click the movie poster below.

Movie Review: Parasite

February 16, 2020

So my mom and I watched the Oscars last week and I was surprised by Parasite taking all of the awards including Best Picture. I had seen the previews and I wasn't interested at all. Even though it was a Best Picture nominee I had decided to skip it as it looked like a horror movie to me from the previews and that didn't interest me at all.

Once it won all of these awards, my parents and I decided to see what all the fuss was about so we rented the movie on Amazon tonight.

I was so very wrong. I completely understand why it won so many awards now. It was great and I'm glad that it got the recognition that it deserved. It was a brilliant story line with plots and twists that kept you enthralled the entire movie.

For more information on Parasite, click the movie poster below.

Movie Review:
Birds of Prey: And the Fantabulous Empancipation of One Harley Quinn

February 11, 2020

Lydie, Sheri, & I saw Birds of Prey tonight along with Sheri's girls.

It was too gory for me to enjoy as that's not my type of entertainment. Some parts were funny and I liked the ending but overall way too much violence for me. Margot Robbie was great in it.

I'm sure DC Comic fans loved it.

For more information on Birds of Prey: And the Fantabulous Empancipation of One Harley Quinn, click the movie poster below.

Movie Review: The Gentlemen

February 4, 2020

Dad, Sheri & I saw The Gentlemen tonight.

It was great and I enjoyed that it kept me guessing the entire movie. Lots of plot twists which kept things interesting.

It had an all start cast including: Matthew McConaughey, Chalie Hunnam, Colin Farrell, and Hugh Grant.

The basic premise of the movie is that an American expat tries to sell off his highly profitable marijuana empire in London which triggers plots, schemes, bribery and blackmail in an attempt to steal his domain out from under him.

For more information on The Gentlemen, click the movie poster below.

Movie Review: Once Upon a Time in Hollywood

February 1, 2020

This is another case of  "I always try to see the majority of Oscar Nominated Best Picture films before the Oscars."

I was certainly curious about this film because of Brad Pitt and Leonardo Di Caprio and the previews looked good.

It was great and I really enjoyed it. It had enough reality tied into it to make it super interesting. I loved some of the cameo appearances from Luke Perry, Al Pacino, and Dakota Fanning.

The basic premise of the movie is that a faded television actor and his stunt double strive to achieve fame and success in the film industry during the final years of Hollywood's Golden Age in 1969.

It was really long (2 hours and 40 minutes) but it certainly didn't feel like it.

For more information on Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, click the movie poster below.

Movie Review: JoJo Rabbit

February 1, 2020

I always try to see the majority of Oscar Nominated Best Picture films before the Oscars.

I saw previews for this film and didn't know quite what to think but the fact that it was a comedy set in the time of the Nazis and Hitler in World War 2 definitely had me curious about it.

It was great. Finding humor in an absolute tragedy is hard to do. The story was heartfelt and touching. Enough drama and heart ache to remind you of the war but enough humor to make it light-hearted (which is something I never thought I would say about a movie about Hitler).

The basic premise of the movie is that there is a lonely German boy named Jojo and his world is turned upside down when he discovers his mother is hiding a jewish girl in their attic. Aided only by his idiotic imaginary friend (Adolf Hitler), Jojo must confront his blind nationalism.

I cannot say enough good things about this movie. It's a must see. The entire cast is great, but Sam Rockwell was my favorite.

For more information on JoJo Rabbit, click the movie poster below.

Movie Review: The Last Full Measure

January 28, 2020

Mom, Dad, Sheri & I went to see The Last Full Measure tonight.

It is a true story that shares the story of William H. "Pits" Pitsenbarger and how his fellow soldiers fought for 34 years after his death to get him awarded the nations highest military honor for his actions on the battlefield.

The movie was powerful and a true story which made it all the more enjoyable.

For more information on The Last Full Measure, click the movie poster below.

Movie Review: 1917

January 26, 2020

I wasn't sure I wanted to see this movie when I saw the previews. However, I heard good things and it was nominated for quite a few Oscars so I thought I would check it out and see what all the hype was about.

This movie should definitely be seen once by everyone. It's powerful and you feel like you are right there with the characters. The director shows the WHOLE MOVIE as if it were shot in 1 shot. It is truly a work of art. I felt totally engaged throughout the entire film.

The premise of the movie is that two young british soldiers during the first World War are given an impossible mission: deliver a message deep in enemy territory that will stop 1600 men, including one of the soldiers' brothers from walking straight into a deadly trap.

Sam Mendes did an excellent job directing this film.  It is not surprising that it is nominated for 10 Oscars including Best Picture and Best Director.  I hope it wins for Best Cinematography because it truly deserves it. 

For more information on 1917, click the movie poster below.

Movie Review: Dolittle

January 26, 2020

Jennifer, Johnny & I went to see Doolittle today.

I enjoyed this movie for what it was. It was a fun escape but nothing to brag about. It was 100% enjoyable though.

For more information on Dolittle, click the movie poster below.

Movie Review: Bad Boys for Life

January 21, 2020

Sheri & I went to see Bad Boys for Life today.

I loved the first 2 movies, so I had every expectation that I would love this one too....and I did. It was hilarious as ususal. Mike and Marcus arguing on the plane was super funny. My only complaint is that they needed more bloopers at the end.

I do love that they set it up for a potential 4th movie....I would definitely go see it.

For more information on Bad Boys for Life, click the movie poster below.

Movie Review: Just Mercy

January 20, 2020

Mom, Dad & I went to see Just Mercy today.

I loved this movie. It's the story of a world-renowned civil rights defense attorney Bryan Stevenson who works to free a wrongly condemned death row prisoner.

I love true stories like this, but it was hard to process that this happened in 1992. I thought we had come farther than this. It makes me sad that people judge and hate people based on the color of their skin.

For more information on Just Mercy, click the movie poster below.

Movie Review: Like a Boss

January 14, 2020

Sheri & I went to see Like A Boss today.

It was a cute movie that was definitely funny. Tiffany Haddish and Rose Byrne had great chemistry portraying best friends.

For more information on Like A Boss, click the movie poster below.

Movie Review: Bombshell

January 7, 2020

Sheri & I went to see Bombshell today.

I really liked this movie. It's the true story of the a group of women who take on Fox News head Roger Ailes and the toxic atmosphere he presided over at the network. I thought it was well done with weaving the real media coverage into the story which made it feel more like a documentary even though it was actors playing the roles. All 3 of the main actresses: Charlize Theron, Nicole Kidman and Margot Robbie were fabulous and there were a lot of other people you would recognize in it such as Allison Janney, Kate McKinnon, Connie Britton and John Lithgow. Overall, it was great.

For more information on Bombshell, click the movie poster below.

Movie Review: Little Women

January 5, 2020

Mom, Emily & I went to see Little Women today.

I had low expectations of this movie as I've seen other versions of the story of Little Women and they never really appealed to me, but I really enjoyed this one. I thought it was engaging and it kept my interest. The story was powerful and the acting was great. I'm sure it will be up for some awards at the Oscars.

For more information on Little Women, click the movie poster below.

Family Cruise - Cayman Islands & Cozumel

December 28, 2019 - January 2, 2020

For Christmas this year, my parents wanted to create memories with us instead of gifts, so we decided to take a family cruise together over New Years.  Mom, Dad, Emily & I flew to Florida right after Christmas and on Saturday December 28, we embarked on a cruise.  My sister Buffy & my nephew Aiden joined us.  Unfortunately, my brother-in-law had to work.  

We had a great time mostly just being together, eating way too much good food and enjoying the beautiful scenery.  My sisters and I did get to swim with the dolphins in Cozumel which was a lot of fun. Below are a few pictures from the cruise               

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