Minimalist Kitchen Idea: weekly menu

Showing posts with label weekly menu. Show all posts

This Week's Menu | Slow Simmered Bolognese, Goat Cheese & Caramelized Pizza, Lemon Chicken

I can not believe it is already the third week of October.  My heartaches a little thinking about it.  The weather is perfect.  Skies are blue, leaves are gold and red, air is crisp - perfect.  I can not get enough of it.  We've been a bit on the run for the last couple of weeks, so I'm going to really try to slow down and relax this week - long walks with Emma and D, easy dinners that leave us a time to play outside in the evenings (before it gets too dark!), and less working.  We have nothing on our calendar for the rest of the month besides a couple of halloween parties and I couldn't be more glad.  Time always skips a little faster for me because I'm already working on packaging up Thanksgiving products this week.  There is a lot of wheat involved (hint, hint).  I do have a couple of more Halloween projects to share, though... I've been dreaming about some Peanut Butter Cup inspired Cupcakes that will come in the next couple of days.<br /><br />Hope you are enjoying a beautiful October day!<br />Jenny<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeS6v1i9NrlUecT5c4KjTtgmoYV_VoeqPd0AunM6eeEfzIi6DjtdnDegQx9xIjyacCU4vt7orMvsQWP5LQP5IyPoxO9va4073F-as8mqbjHjF9LluS9h_n2lj2zp29wMrVnkISBhcJY3Q7/s1600/beef-ragu.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeS6v1i9NrlUecT5c4KjTtgmoYV_VoeqPd0AunM6eeEfzIi6DjtdnDegQx9xIjyacCU4vt7orMvsQWP5LQP5IyPoxO9va4073F-as8mqbjHjF9LluS9h_n2lj2zp29wMrVnkISBhcJY3Q7/s1600/beef-ragu.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2014/01/slow-simmered-beef-ragu-tomatoes-wine.html">Slow Simmered Beef Ragu</a><br /><br />This. Is. So. Good.  Tomatoes, cream, parmesan, thyme, rosemary, garlic, wine... all slow simmered with beef makes the most comforting, delicious beef ragu/bolognese.  If your family allows, add mushrooms, too... mine does not : )<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT6gZSMiqWeaepu6rUvYE0aRnUOfDgcQ3S1cxLyw-3asXRnvADnu8pJlCPKBGMUGKKw9TVGECIirCSnOBG26jLT37GtoIGINmNL_1wR3pwJ6ME1eW8dt-HPPDsYkS1kn0Go5z3PluIdaSp/s1600/lemon+chicken.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT6gZSMiqWeaepu6rUvYE0aRnUOfDgcQ3S1cxLyw-3asXRnvADnu8pJlCPKBGMUGKKw9TVGECIirCSnOBG26jLT37GtoIGINmNL_1wR3pwJ6ME1eW8dt-HPPDsYkS1kn0Go5z3PluIdaSp/s1600/lemon+chicken.jpg" width="397" /></a></div><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2012/04/lemon-garlic-thyme-roasted-chicken-on.html">Roasted Lemon Chicken Breasts with Mashed Potatoes and Roasted Vegetables</a><br /><br />This is such an easy dinner - using chicken breasts make it simple and quick.  The lemon butter thyme sauce that the chicken cooks in is perfect drizzled over the mashed potatoes.<br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2MIJTD4FB8MJU2G93w6254AVCmWfa28SpDprcwLf-qzKHywVBsHvD9VQTFLRhVDKHj89Ssv3L8aCOEh8fmOsoNAp1KVp5MnTc8bBIXEghdPejw4ALTi1IMPjmOlbPaG-AkNGi1Jo8DEFQ/s1600/IMG_1694.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2MIJTD4FB8MJU2G93w6254AVCmWfa28SpDprcwLf-qzKHywVBsHvD9VQTFLRhVDKHj89Ssv3L8aCOEh8fmOsoNAp1KVp5MnTc8bBIXEghdPejw4ALTi1IMPjmOlbPaG-AkNGi1Jo8DEFQ/s1600/IMG_1694.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2013/03/chicken-lemon-orzo-soup-from-nine-and.html">Lemon Orzo Soup</a><br /><br />In honor of my blogger friend, Tessa's home being featured in Midwest Living Magazine's holiday issue (that is now out!) I'm sharing her recipe for one of our family's favorites - Lemon Orzo Soup.  I'll use the chicken from our Roasted Lemon Chicken to make it an easy dinner from leftovers.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6N4lRyJ2gh19AW3huZhYSH_5yC0GcJZt_b5qMBQ7QdZwN7yH8fSApJ7uyz3CCwkkUZa-iOIkJOiu05466l0pMsLd6be6vZIQxm5dCnrZpuv1kc4LCDjWdt1G81NhGdQrSVeNf_GXkfisd/s1600/IMG_7543.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="357" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6N4lRyJ2gh19AW3huZhYSH_5yC0GcJZt_b5qMBQ7QdZwN7yH8fSApJ7uyz3CCwkkUZa-iOIkJOiu05466l0pMsLd6be6vZIQxm5dCnrZpuv1kc4LCDjWdt1G81NhGdQrSVeNf_GXkfisd/s1600/IMG_7543.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/03/goat-cheese-caramelized-onion-pizza.html">Goat Cheese & Caramelized Onion Pizza</a><br /><br />Homemade Pizza is much easier than you think... especially when you used pizza dough from Trader Joes :)  This will be mine, Emma and Mike will make a simple margarita with tomato sauce and fresh mozzarella.

This Week's Menu | Slow Simmered Bolognese, Goat Cheese & Caramelized Pizza, Lemon Chicken

I can not believe it is already the third week of October. My heartaches a little thinking about it. The weather is perfect. Skies are bl...

8:26 AM

This Week's Menu and House Project Update

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: start;">I have to say, I am loving this October.  September felt more like August, but for some reason, just as the calendar flipped the page, so did the weather.  I'm so excited to be bundled up for our morning walks.  We spend our afternoon walks collecting leaves of every color, shape and size... any ideas of what to do with them?  I thought about having a cardboard wreath form that we glue them to every evening so by the end of the month we'll have a really full fall leaf wreath (three times fast...).</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqWMLsuPRbOzCt75jkmXRVcbksUkeO4fS-1KEr-AvwH-QyHVM3SeR25FQ4Gi4Sn3uBOXyKLuaLRhfElF8IJBSfCIh5Zk6K3IdsglOkhDqOCV6hfKY3xNlarRlM_GDJTpE_i2_iIGLwgwSo/s1600/1photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqWMLsuPRbOzCt75jkmXRVcbksUkeO4fS-1KEr-AvwH-QyHVM3SeR25FQ4Gi4Sn3uBOXyKLuaLRhfElF8IJBSfCIh5Zk6K3IdsglOkhDqOCV6hfKY3xNlarRlM_GDJTpE_i2_iIGLwgwSo/s1600/1photo.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /> This is not really a very pretty stage of construction - but it is progress, so it looks beautiful to me.  This will be the third week of the House Project.  The first week was demo, the second week was digging, now this week will be pouring the foundation.  This is the side of the house where the new garage will go - the trench on the right is just the path the bobcat used to get of of the foundation digging hole to the left of me in this photo.   Last week was filled with a couple of delays due to rain and extra equipment that had to be rented because "PeeWee": ) discovered these while excavating with the bobcat. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJLyyeU2fu8mI6pl2j5VfL-37PdxBmmZaQcp3i8SdtuingP9w2Of-R0s2GwJQAdNlcR7TqChtGxkWEE-_uMulu9y5jk4HpKbJvDLDoCVmVBjUe3Fno5u-LqwHUHjx4ekfsCYva_fC2zmuP/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJLyyeU2fu8mI6pl2j5VfL-37PdxBmmZaQcp3i8SdtuingP9w2Of-R0s2GwJQAdNlcR7TqChtGxkWEE-_uMulu9y5jk4HpKbJvDLDoCVmVBjUe3Fno5u-LqwHUHjx4ekfsCYva_fC2zmuP/s1600/photo+1.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>They were about 2 feet out from our foundation, and spaced about every 4 feet running along the entire back of the house.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheP2tiu9jX7txcVk-bV_nlxvRfvn3TnElr-wBrg6JqvdIwcqbOt9m2yaY0EhKwFxPvxVOf5h6qQ9huC0mmxh6hI6G3F9-iR_20DmtBVwNQ2NCeN03M2mplcAD6cxbJIZcUxdVbDmVS4duS/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheP2tiu9jX7txcVk-bV_nlxvRfvn3TnElr-wBrg6JqvdIwcqbOt9m2yaY0EhKwFxPvxVOf5h6qQ9huC0mmxh6hI6G3F9-iR_20DmtBVwNQ2NCeN03M2mplcAD6cxbJIZcUxdVbDmVS4duS/s1600/photo+2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />They seem to be some sort of piers - but have all of our builders stumped.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXrBEyCVUZfMZxuBMSYbtb57HjKhKrtr_o4Kr7HV2vQyqsQVA7jtq3KbfdnAT2eF2ht_TPVo4WR6n_AG8TMgUA3UdYUlsQAyR0-gjvw-ejAuOSWD1s2RfT0xHjKngJWusKwIA1xSlLOK5e/s1600/photo+5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXrBEyCVUZfMZxuBMSYbtb57HjKhKrtr_o4Kr7HV2vQyqsQVA7jtq3KbfdnAT2eF2ht_TPVo4WR6n_AG8TMgUA3UdYUlsQAyR0-gjvw-ejAuOSWD1s2RfT0xHjKngJWusKwIA1xSlLOK5e/s1600/photo+5.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Long story short, they had to be chopped off with some sort of saw, so that took a couple of extra days... hoping it wasn't too much of a ding to the budget/schedule.  We're also hoping that was our "hiccup" during construction... there's always going to be something, we hopefully that was ours.  Right...?!<br /><br />Here's what I'm planning for this week's menu :<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6KhmaPmDL9tnFTuLo_hdpfZFHYYdLujtTAzusxPVrXrFsoO15XrHdaNrUhBySvNR7_wMvh0Vaclz0XBJZHuTh-9EB9ATYuiBmy6_xARYAVok7HGcyh5gBo3I3PhJw2jINbf8hLGpgD-Ih/s1600/IMG_3312.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6KhmaPmDL9tnFTuLo_hdpfZFHYYdLujtTAzusxPVrXrFsoO15XrHdaNrUhBySvNR7_wMvh0Vaclz0XBJZHuTh-9EB9ATYuiBmy6_xARYAVok7HGcyh5gBo3I3PhJw2jINbf8hLGpgD-Ih/s1600/IMG_3312.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><i><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2014/08/our-favorite-spaghetti-sauce-homemade.html">Our Favorite Spaghetti & Meatballs</a></span></i><br /><i><br /></i><i>We didn't have this on Sunday, or last week, so it is at the top of my list for this week!  The meatballs make great sandwiches for Mike's lunches.</i><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY71C4rp1YHB2JhJ9BOQ8W7NB72WK_oIS870_wltBmIZBwSD3EvkZfAflSrCdTl4B_oQijXxIPKNaQZTcMMc3go8kNmhyphenhyphenqlZS59KFL3oS279Pc8mbyhySbgCSaAUxSo-M5voYfUKTifMKk/s1600/potato-leek-soup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY71C4rp1YHB2JhJ9BOQ8W7NB72WK_oIS870_wltBmIZBwSD3EvkZfAflSrCdTl4B_oQijXxIPKNaQZTcMMc3go8kNmhyphenhyphenqlZS59KFL3oS279Pc8mbyhySbgCSaAUxSo-M5voYfUKTifMKk/s1600/potato-leek-soup.jpg" width="425" /></a></div><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2013/12/simple-potato-leek-soup-with-parmesan.html"><i><span style="font-size: large;">Potato Leek Soup with Parmesan & Bacon</span></i></a><br /><br />I'll probably add a big salad to this to make sure we eat something green this week : )  <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbl2XEBY612qlxn24umOeZ79m8b50pfLcCoCHV0q_QgsNO3m6s3iL4WzXwf6UfT9ENPJuSJtAunvkmmaGD_HpkyIQsayopjPHTS7WLphKjATL4GIW49GUR2Wv7oP24OhBIE2BSoJPn4a9C/s1600/truffle-fries.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbl2XEBY612qlxn24umOeZ79m8b50pfLcCoCHV0q_QgsNO3m6s3iL4WzXwf6UfT9ENPJuSJtAunvkmmaGD_HpkyIQsayopjPHTS7WLphKjATL4GIW49GUR2Wv7oP24OhBIE2BSoJPn4a9C/s1600/truffle-fries.jpg" width="426" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbl2XEBY612qlxn24umOeZ79m8b50pfLcCoCHV0q_QgsNO3m6s3iL4WzXwf6UfT9ENPJuSJtAunvkmmaGD_HpkyIQsayopjPHTS7WLphKjATL4GIW49GUR2Wv7oP24OhBIE2BSoJPn4a9C/s1600/truffle-fries.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><i style="font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></i></a><i style="font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2014/02/homemade-truffle-fries-baked-truffle.html">S</a>t</i><i style="font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2014/02/homemade-truffle-fries-baked-truffle.html">eaks & Truffle Fries</a></i></div><br />This may seem like a weekend meal, but dressing frozen fries up with truffle oil and parmesan cheese makes these any easy, easy weeknight meal... and, there is nothing easier than searing or grilling steaks.  I will probably put some veggies on the grill along with the steaks, too.<br />This may seem like a weekend meal, but dressing frozen fries up with truffle oil and parmesan cheese makes these any easy, easy weeknight meal... and, there is nothing easier than searing or grilling steaks.  I will probably put some veggies on the grill along with the steaks, too.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKaAlRWBpf1Dw0U6cJsgoZz-41GAamYsh3CPzH0jQT9N3EEwA5SrfkEE3ca6ZWFqnVVTqFxlR-rTNwTzAQbT5ybTtSsrXYnsAeXZ83gZ_IKkWNc454VMyzumZFoEAUh1eEL0-A-nhcUnHf/s1600/beef-chili.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKaAlRWBpf1Dw0U6cJsgoZz-41GAamYsh3CPzH0jQT9N3EEwA5SrfkEE3ca6ZWFqnVVTqFxlR-rTNwTzAQbT5ybTtSsrXYnsAeXZ83gZ_IKkWNc454VMyzumZFoEAUh1eEL0-A-nhcUnHf/s1600/beef-chili.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><i><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2013/10/our-pumpkin-carving-party-braised-beef.html">Braised Beef Chili</a></span></i><br /><br /><br />Because it is officially October, chili is definitely on the menu.  This is the Braised Beef Chili I mad at our Pumpkin Carving Party last year - I love the meatiness and the texture that the shredded braised beef gives the chili, instead of just ground beef.

This Week's Menu and House Project Update

I have to say, I am loving this October. September felt more like August, but for some reason, just as the calendar flipped the page, so di...

10:08 AM

This Week's Menu & Fall Fun with Cousins

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7p1G1fHBuKllUcVf7NHypcY2_7Z4o3BX95XF7gntDZVxm-GeEPCMbVkzVIjW0ozZSKDh9ZEpFdziPQ2dNIRAi5nH4TrMXcus875dVE_f5kC4mlumB0-Jd8ITcR_p1WU67XK4qwtj7kCXS/s1600/IMG_4599.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7p1G1fHBuKllUcVf7NHypcY2_7Z4o3BX95XF7gntDZVxm-GeEPCMbVkzVIjW0ozZSKDh9ZEpFdziPQ2dNIRAi5nH4TrMXcus875dVE_f5kC4mlumB0-Jd8ITcR_p1WU67XK4qwtj7kCXS/s1600/IMG_4599.JPG" width="640" /></a><br /><br />We had a fall fun-packed weekend with my Sister and her family in town.  In two and a half days we went to a pumpkin patch, a train station, we stumbled upon a parade, had a craft day at kaleidoscope, ran around in a hotel (since we don't have a house...) and went to the Fall Festival in our neighborhood.  I love this photo of the 5 of us at the pumpkin patch!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2nNjnbssGTPA764eKolx-eCC2OyfHnvLgBtKexz5yRsNqzQ6zqUPvooZ9_gQxRtS2rJi-tMjIJz_GxMnuG8jzKh7Iq2A3JyRXnTp0au9CF7bZw3uJTW7wSBuEiaA_jAq-VpK_Om-4OIBv/s1600/IMG_4587.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="462" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2nNjnbssGTPA764eKolx-eCC2OyfHnvLgBtKexz5yRsNqzQ6zqUPvooZ9_gQxRtS2rJi-tMjIJz_GxMnuG8jzKh7Iq2A3JyRXnTp0au9CF7bZw3uJTW7wSBuEiaA_jAq-VpK_Om-4OIBv/s1600/IMG_4587.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Here Emma and Sam are running for the Corn Maze.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLeb6NNOo_8x1ZXXCywkzx3vtqBZNMhJ8djLofrTmKUtXdwaM2e-uc59JbW96AYbYGKnkWlXHDH0Vm8mCemnLhQV3ogqoIk41giiQ_asdQJITVSTZU_NuKyBA3LQdds31Jh5R7v584kBow/s1600/IMG_4588.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLeb6NNOo_8x1ZXXCywkzx3vtqBZNMhJ8djLofrTmKUtXdwaM2e-uc59JbW96AYbYGKnkWlXHDH0Vm8mCemnLhQV3ogqoIk41giiQ_asdQJITVSTZU_NuKyBA3LQdds31Jh5R7v584kBow/s1600/IMG_4588.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And running through the Corn Maze.  Pink cowgirl boots, of course.</div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWlmwTHQpvVFC5HVotlbvJ8w0eQTArB5FZ7ptgPoHFGVylC59mL7czPZk_b_sHzc7nL6sJxTpE3mUgncf-xjwV17g3R_OT6hQvfOCpkcxw20dLXHlCqKbJY6_TSZW7xk0Lmw7R5_8XDqeb/s1600/IMG_4586.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWlmwTHQpvVFC5HVotlbvJ8w0eQTArB5FZ7ptgPoHFGVylC59mL7czPZk_b_sHzc7nL6sJxTpE3mUgncf-xjwV17g3R_OT6hQvfOCpkcxw20dLXHlCqKbJY6_TSZW7xk0Lmw7R5_8XDqeb/s1600/IMG_4586.JPG" width="640" /></a><br /><br />Yeehaw!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirSgrupqznmLrBO2dsmRi1dw80AKD4MqmLBWL_XOQpEImRYYNS1z1_AYse7uW6KdfvMEHzyH_qKKgwxsELEYNgq-CtISSbHKm7Caqqr0rlk2GnEw5vUVCd5u8vtGpMcq0Yty-HnXJWvTSx/s1600/IMG_4606.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirSgrupqznmLrBO2dsmRi1dw80AKD4MqmLBWL_XOQpEImRYYNS1z1_AYse7uW6KdfvMEHzyH_qKKgwxsELEYNgq-CtISSbHKm7Caqqr0rlk2GnEw5vUVCd5u8vtGpMcq0Yty-HnXJWvTSx/s1600/IMG_4606.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Emma in the tunnel, 2014, age 2<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkntiWHkfFE4uM_g7074BcY2rQqSzbFKXsUyBgSOL-6WEOVyTJBoNbFj073QXt0lyZDKmqaLJ05ZPi9m0_jIImvLrTr_7IwiEQPBHg73VlRn-LT81uktnJUMs5_uNlX70FysMwC9jYXbpS/s1600/IMG_4610.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkntiWHkfFE4uM_g7074BcY2rQqSzbFKXsUyBgSOL-6WEOVyTJBoNbFj073QXt0lyZDKmqaLJ05ZPi9m0_jIImvLrTr_7IwiEQPBHg73VlRn-LT81uktnJUMs5_uNlX70FysMwC9jYXbpS/s1600/IMG_4610.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Kate in the tunnel, 2014, age 1<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTRQNcqHoWo-87VxgwiR1RlED06znwu5E7ClkVwmr2u2eTROLY69jNIMIeYcYRbchqm_MUTIfSv4N-HEtylT-zS01iboQneJa0vZPUl7fTF6jdIQpex1eFJ37Nb8MMrpCEKP-99nXM2CY5/s1600/sam+pumpkin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTRQNcqHoWo-87VxgwiR1RlED06znwu5E7ClkVwmr2u2eTROLY69jNIMIeYcYRbchqm_MUTIfSv4N-HEtylT-zS01iboQneJa0vZPUl7fTF6jdIQpex1eFJ37Nb8MMrpCEKP-99nXM2CY5/s1600/sam+pumpkin.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Flashback : Sam in a tunnel 3 years ago, 2011, age 1</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">*You might remember my <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/10/halloween-gifts-in-mail-baby-gifts-for.html">post</a> of Sam in a similar tunnel at a pumpkin patch and some<a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/10/halloween-gifts-in-mail-baby-gifts-for.html"> Halloween gifts I made for friends</a> - 3 years ago!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3ES33K8AmFMHzmwBlr5RzXVf0xNOLY9Q8T-I7BXeEduXbZkfASBdNK7MRUPN_V_tf2qbFWJw8w1oq9R-DBgWqiqxTaf8YWRCkhbamvavvVCheNQ0gNEyBDLTuzhGW-EX10UxSM0pzjAeA/s1600/photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3ES33K8AmFMHzmwBlr5RzXVf0xNOLY9Q8T-I7BXeEduXbZkfASBdNK7MRUPN_V_tf2qbFWJw8w1oq9R-DBgWqiqxTaf8YWRCkhbamvavvVCheNQ0gNEyBDLTuzhGW-EX10UxSM0pzjAeA/s1600/photo.jpg" width="214" /></a>I love this photo from our neighborhood fall festival - Emma's 2nd horse ride of the weekend.  One of our friends took this photo of her daughter and caught Emma and me in the background : )<br /><br />After being in survival mode for the last couple of weeks - packing, moving, unpacking, hosting family - we are settling into our new routine.  I still have some organizing to do this afternoon so I am no longer digger through boxes to access my work things, but we're feeling a little more settled.  The house is moving right along - the digging starts today!  I'm headed over this afternoon to look at the progress before I pick Emma up from school.  I'm a little cautious of exposing her to too much of the ugly part of the construction, because I don't want her to be worried about her house being torn apart.  I'll take her there more when the fun, building part of the process begins.</span></div><br />Here is my dinner plan for the week... I'm not really sure what order they will happen!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX1dkrFc9yKdDAXl0S1WAOso7tzM75b_ALgf3pwkd8teoh6MX_OR8Kcj0Nll3jkZelIW8IbB7guMlcnbwBxc_MYrbcue1ErlXL1NO1y5I_LOCuRzrYh3tOHzB-2PNuzNUAPFClFdPIx79f/s1600/french-onion-sargento.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX1dkrFc9yKdDAXl0S1WAOso7tzM75b_ALgf3pwkd8teoh6MX_OR8Kcj0Nll3jkZelIW8IbB7guMlcnbwBxc_MYrbcue1ErlXL1NO1y5I_LOCuRzrYh3tOHzB-2PNuzNUAPFClFdPIx79f/s1600/french-onion-sargento.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2013/09/french-onion-soup-with-sargento-natural.html">French Onion Soup</a> & Salad<br /><br />This is Emma's favorite soup... who would've guessed?!  I have to say it is one of mine, too.  I'll be making a really yummy salad with greens, chopped egg, bacon and veggies with buttermilk garlic dressing, too.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8VW-SgLqWXv5KQwgOgyb_j2b_N5M8p1-0ss5JaL2A5GHE27ZMTfjRWTfEZREp2SsJSf2PtIrYuHYv4grtqtO5IMZBQuhjLNzkHqDFSJY9RTkVmXolHFu-4TUo3yXa8kobTyRsORlo3Rgr/s1600/lemon-chicken-rosemary-oliv.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8VW-SgLqWXv5KQwgOgyb_j2b_N5M8p1-0ss5JaL2A5GHE27ZMTfjRWTfEZREp2SsJSf2PtIrYuHYv4grtqtO5IMZBQuhjLNzkHqDFSJY9RTkVmXolHFu-4TUo3yXa8kobTyRsORlo3Rgr/s1600/lemon-chicken-rosemary-oliv.png" width="266" /></a></div>Roasted Beat & Vegetable Salad with Goat Cheese & Chicken<br /><br />This will be a new recipe - sort of like the <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2014/04/roasted-chicken-with-lemon-rosemary_8.html">one pictured</a>, but more of a salad, without olives or rosemary... so verry different, I guess.  My plan is to roast beets, carrots and brussel sprouts, along with chicken breasts.  Then cut into large pieces, toss with arugula and lemon shallot vinaigrette and add goat cheese.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMEFbOGJfaWXk8WZWCVdSvxTdyhfAnTop4w7oosNM8RLSzitMozOUW3cL29zFfa9HRUkwnvO3ALZnCQR6X4ORrMCKBR2Z4WtFNpBHn7nrk0phD3TtQlLxR9vBl5HVPQPEhIlKlPnyZQpfb/s1600/meatball-lasagna.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMEFbOGJfaWXk8WZWCVdSvxTdyhfAnTop4w7oosNM8RLSzitMozOUW3cL29zFfa9HRUkwnvO3ALZnCQR6X4ORrMCKBR2Z4WtFNpBHn7nrk0phD3TtQlLxR9vBl5HVPQPEhIlKlPnyZQpfb/s1600/meatball-lasagna.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2014/01/meatball-lasagna.html">Meatball Lasagna</a><br /><br />If this doesn't happen on Wednesday, it will happen on Sunday.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE9F47lU048D_ERyDp9UhOZVmgN12c1PmaTYq6EUbPIQcdw4jHNucBUbbK_oLCY4jgJsK8qH3Mn9zInfCmra63gx3gVxA6fmVxwgSNo6hTZ33exDZbwvIYvEAbczm35am5po01otbYV9hP/s1600/short-ribs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE9F47lU048D_ERyDp9UhOZVmgN12c1PmaTYq6EUbPIQcdw4jHNucBUbbK_oLCY4jgJsK8qH3Mn9zInfCmra63gx3gVxA6fmVxwgSNo6hTZ33exDZbwvIYvEAbczm35am5po01otbYV9hP/s1600/short-ribs.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2013/09/braised-short-ribs-cozy-sunday-supper.html">Braised Short Ribs</a><br /><div><br /></div><div>A popular one!  Again, this might happen Sunday instead, we'll see how the week goes.  Sometimes by Thursday we are having Chinese takeout : )</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>

This Week's Menu & Fall Fun with Cousins

We had a fall fun-packed weekend with my Sister and her family in town. In two and a half days we went to a pumpkin patch, a train station,...

10:49 AM

This Week's Menu | Roasted Pork Tenderloin, Braised Cabbage with Goat Cheese & Homemade Applesauce

Well, this is the week.  The last week of living in our house, that is.  We will be packing up ev-er-y-thing we own, putting it in a Pod (hoping it fits...) and moving out for the next six months.  Trying to explain the process to Emma has been a little difficult - I keep telling her that Mr. John is going to come build us a new house.  In the next couple of weeks I'll share how we finally picked and hired a contractor and some of the lessons we've learned along the way. <br /><br />For now, after I post this weekly menu, I'm going to finish up a couple of posts for the rest of the week (Bathroom Inspiration board included!) and some recipes... then, I'll be in the basement.  For the rest of the week.  Don't think I'm crazy, but I love packing.  I love cleaning out, donating and neatly packing everything up - fresh start.  I've resolved to keep only things that I love and know exactly where they will go in the new house.  Everything else will be given away.  I've noticed in this process, that I get a little more lenient with this rule as we go on, and have to keep reminding myself.  For those of you that have emailed - the Acorn Cookie Cutters should be back in stock by the end of the week!  Hope your week is off to a great start!<br /><br />Jenny<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp-r_jAlooIG7KJNIzDqXmwtzdvtvLFWnOLmvq1S62qj7NXH3XUVrTYSaKziEHVEF5KIA8oFTbdtGA61lLi6Hoagl9X-IpDHGF0feXsGwKrl3XlcT23Jj8VbpaNKX3FyhgQTGqBJ6QAcXe/s1600/pork.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp-r_jAlooIG7KJNIzDqXmwtzdvtvLFWnOLmvq1S62qj7NXH3XUVrTYSaKziEHVEF5KIA8oFTbdtGA61lLi6Hoagl9X-IpDHGF0feXsGwKrl3XlcT23Jj8VbpaNKX3FyhgQTGqBJ6QAcXe/s1600/pork.jpg" width="476" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><i><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2013/10/roasted-pork-tenderloin-with-homemade.html">Roasted Pork Tenderloin with Homemade Applesauce & Braised Cabbage with Goat Cheese</a></i></span><br /><br />Oh my gosh, is this good.  It is more of a Sunday Supper type of meal, but this week, I'll be making it tonight, on a Monday.  It makes great sandwiches for the rest of the week for Mike's lunch.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQmobCnWz2vFzftC2roTOxZ4rHTKSNKJEvaEPWabIhf7C8zr2dtpQ3-QbTULdCkpGpgudxi5ftRazlBOZ5aHw1P5f_r1gzae_QNAkQKusnA4s6lJABk74clPxIAkggivc0Or5Jxy31Fb4c/s1600/chorizo-soup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQmobCnWz2vFzftC2roTOxZ4rHTKSNKJEvaEPWabIhf7C8zr2dtpQ3-QbTULdCkpGpgudxi5ftRazlBOZ5aHw1P5f_r1gzae_QNAkQKusnA4s6lJABk74clPxIAkggivc0Or5Jxy31Fb4c/s1600/chorizo-soup.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2012/09/chorizo-vegetable-cream-soup-fresh.html" style="font-size: x-large; font-style: italic;">Chorizo & Vegetable Soup with Fancy Grilled Cheese</a><br /><br />We try to do soup once a week, especially now that the weather is cooling down.  This is a great soup that has so much flavor!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo5UTu4T1HIm8wi_P0abAmyWOt02v7ghGuV-QLyHvy5U2CRMPSVSZKMFg4puBckJfxT5E18fjHSozbxiJYCMxmqD4njP4ATXO0iaC8MRFJWwG4PuhAbp3lGrYjq_7nkTv-vgwpBG3gCu0L/s1600/tomato-goat-cheese-salad.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo5UTu4T1HIm8wi_P0abAmyWOt02v7ghGuV-QLyHvy5U2CRMPSVSZKMFg4puBckJfxT5E18fjHSozbxiJYCMxmqD4njP4ATXO0iaC8MRFJWwG4PuhAbp3lGrYjq_7nkTv-vgwpBG3gCu0L/s1600/tomato-goat-cheese-salad.png" width="424" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><i><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2013/08/heirloom-tomato-marcona-almonds.html">Tomato & Goat Cheese Salad</a></i></span><br /><br />Even though the weather is turning colder, it is prime tomato season.  I'll probably serve this salad with a grilled Flank Steak or piece of Fish.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwaHLbKeUGxuYEpWryyGKXriOiP_5AuPMrTsCIgyhdQzHroN3zAoL8NEBGV9xuNCXjaoe_A8GRycAiWuLJQ3dI_24K3a648xbvJtyZLe5HlysAse9t_ByF3WcmuyhTfY6iHR2PB_2brPcl/s1600/chili.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwaHLbKeUGxuYEpWryyGKXriOiP_5AuPMrTsCIgyhdQzHroN3zAoL8NEBGV9xuNCXjaoe_A8GRycAiWuLJQ3dI_24K3a648xbvJtyZLe5HlysAse9t_ByF3WcmuyhTfY6iHR2PB_2brPcl/s1600/chili.jpg" width="524" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><i><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2012/10/butternut-beef-chili-fall-recipe.html">Butternut & Beef Chili</a></i></span><br /><br />I'm making this on Thursday afternoon, because it will a great thing to have for leftovers the rest of the weekend while we finish the packing.  It will be great to have a filling meal that is just a microwave away.

This Week's Menu | Roasted Pork Tenderloin, Braised Cabbage with Goat Cheese & Homemade Applesauce

Well, this is the week. The last week of living in our house, that is. We will be packing up ev-er-y-thing we own, putting it in a Pod (ho...

8:20 AM

This Week's Menu | Slow-Simmered Cabernet Mushrooms with Pot Roast, Penne alla Vodka

This morning it was 58 degrees for my walk with Mr. Darcy.  Ahhh.  Finally.  We were spoiled with a mild summer, but just as we were ready for Fall, it has been 98 degrees for the last couple of weeks.  I feel like we've really earned it now.  Our week's menu reflects the chill in the air - lots of comfort food.  Emma and I + some friends will be decorating Fall Sugar Cookies this week and sipping on apple cider to put us in full on Fall mode.  I'll be sharing more fall baking products later in the week including fall copper cookie cutters, sprinkles, and baskets perfect for hostess gifts and treats.<br /><br />What are the first fall-ish foods that you like to make?  I have apples and salted caramel all ready for after school snacks this week!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUjCwuRsVa1O4SpRDR6m_RIrqV0e2iVyUyKjkJCHCsZc8Aq3Sm-XMJHSccZdMSWf0Bh_kd847X6asG6QxKymeDkESusZz_6muN_6W6BKryGABWaXbM12EDd8fabgW8yZnr3dJomYWoHBTG/s1600/mushrooms.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUjCwuRsVa1O4SpRDR6m_RIrqV0e2iVyUyKjkJCHCsZc8Aq3Sm-XMJHSccZdMSWf0Bh_kd847X6asG6QxKymeDkESusZz_6muN_6W6BKryGABWaXbM12EDd8fabgW8yZnr3dJomYWoHBTG/s1600/mushrooms.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2014/02/slow-simmered-cabernet-thyme-mushroooms.html">Pot Roast with Slow-Simmered Cabernet & Thyme Mushrooms, Chive Mashed Potatoes & Roasted Carrots</a><br /><br />I'll be using this recipe but adding a chuck roast to the simmering mixture.  I haven't tried it before, but I'll let you know how it goes! <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiybYtEgnMwGGdaGKZ3ZQLFJhy2sPFdbiHmPC0VoKoASTOM8P5_J9a6f_VOXMtbFCELkqDJ39lJA4jfZBhEPWbCZZGY75mpME8SO4wB2v0KMEws0OHySV2pRwDwUIbiAU31mf0W4CRrbYkN/s1600/vodka-sauce.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiybYtEgnMwGGdaGKZ3ZQLFJhy2sPFdbiHmPC0VoKoASTOM8P5_J9a6f_VOXMtbFCELkqDJ39lJA4jfZBhEPWbCZZGY75mpME8SO4wB2v0KMEws0OHySV2pRwDwUIbiAU31mf0W4CRrbYkN/s1600/vodka-sauce.jpg" width="265" /></a></div><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2013/01/penne-alla-vodka-sauce-barefoot.html">Barefoot Contessa's Penne alla Vodka Sauce</a><br /><br />I've been really craving this lately - a favorite that I haven't made in a while!  Sometimes I add sliced chicken and mushrooms to add a little protein and heft without it being all pasta... but it is good all on its own, too.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiPFzWK1kLZxU29dat95098FU3d4MBhZN0UkN9ZogEuS6W3FpLXFQOsvMQsLHHut-PGpp57X1RFzvAU4bQv7cze2zxO5yL83PCh6CJxhIwZWB7L6w_ucS9_hBG5X5zyHXMd9GMjTms6Yw0/s1600/beef-stew.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiPFzWK1kLZxU29dat95098FU3d4MBhZN0UkN9ZogEuS6W3FpLXFQOsvMQsLHHut-PGpp57X1RFzvAU4bQv7cze2zxO5yL83PCh6CJxhIwZWB7L6w_ucS9_hBG5X5zyHXMd9GMjTms6Yw0/s1600/beef-stew.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>Soup Night / Leftovers : <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2012/10/braised-beef-italian-vegetable-stew.html">Italian Vegetable & Beef Stew</a><br /><br />You might remember that I made this soup, but without beef, a couple of weeks ago.  This time, I'll use some of the left over beef from Pot Roast on Monday to add to this Italian Vegetable Soup.  Sorry, you might see this on repeat a little bit - it is my very favorite for Fall.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE85T2DQe-SBs6jirTvXoj7QIso-JVM_mnEr0RATuu5MI4Aol-dsfmyLKQKIG0HLMlK34leKTWl8bseuHscUGLIM43szUnwU9iTk__2aNV_THgt_7Fctt_ehu1fHDHP-S7OAxOvmvONv-p/s1600/pork-tenderloin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE85T2DQe-SBs6jirTvXoj7QIso-JVM_mnEr0RATuu5MI4Aol-dsfmyLKQKIG0HLMlK34leKTWl8bseuHscUGLIM43szUnwU9iTk__2aNV_THgt_7Fctt_ehu1fHDHP-S7OAxOvmvONv-p/s1600/pork-tenderloin.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2013/05/simple-spring-supper-brown-sugar-sesame.html">Brown Sugar & Sesame Pork Tenderloin with Roasted Vegetables</a><br /><br />This is a little bit lighter than the rest of the week - basically, roasted pork tenderloin with vegetables.  I'll probably do something very simple for the sides like sauteed green beans and maybe some steamed rice... or <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2012/01/best-mac-and-cheese-recipe-baked.html">mac n'cheese</a> depending on how many walks I go on this week or how many fall sugar cookies we eat while decorating on Tuesday ; )

This Week's Menu | Slow-Simmered Cabernet Mushrooms with Pot Roast, Penne alla Vodka

This morning it was 58 degrees for my walk with Mr. Darcy. Ahhh. Finally. We were spoiled with a mild summer, but just as we were ready f...

8:14 AM

This Week's Menu : Roasted Chicken, Shrimp, Penne & Red Pepper Cream, Grilled Herb Butter Steaks

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikSQAu20LGL2aQo1hN_eS3rOgnT1OZ6zF8lmGbrZ2yVbYy6weVE2GuaoTChRzUKZ9YPkZYrWhAIARIon07i_jiJ56vLCSixQ33pngRMab45vwBG7JAiNWwulfgD2UCpKAoJ2gJbRJ4gxpa/s1600/IMG_4209.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikSQAu20LGL2aQo1hN_eS3rOgnT1OZ6zF8lmGbrZ2yVbYy6weVE2GuaoTChRzUKZ9YPkZYrWhAIARIon07i_jiJ56vLCSixQ33pngRMab45vwBG7JAiNWwulfgD2UCpKAoJ2gJbRJ4gxpa/s1600/IMG_4209.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Good <strike>Monday</strike> Tuesday morning : )   It is time for the weekly menu plan.     This is what my world looks like right now - tube rose (one of my favorite smelling flowers), to-do lists, weekly menu, candle & coffee!  I didn't have my phone on the entire weekend and it felt so good.  Now, I'm catching up and checking out the weather for the week so I can plan dinners.  Am I the only one that plans food around weather?<br /><br />I decided to start on Tuesday this week since we had a holiday yesterday... and last night we had frozen pizza and salad from the grocery store.  You're impressed, right?  We had a good excuse - we started packing up the house for demo day!   Actually, I'm impressed (surprised) that I've kept it up this menu planning post three weeks in a row.  It really <i>has</i> helped me be more on autopilot during the week for meal planning so I can not be on autopilot for other, more important things.  Is it helping you?  What would you like to see more of?<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh42hjgT4iXacKKM6MTvJzRXlAX3kQfREMYwk5q7CHoV8Ie3sSL0tPIVNtGsnxzo-makVUabU4SezLa-k3FM3rchTfDx3UfnYpFxlWs2f5uE9IY8w5W6SirizzmfePyWFYHoprfgTWHOxuC/s640/IMG_9142.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh42hjgT4iXacKKM6MTvJzRXlAX3kQfREMYwk5q7CHoV8Ie3sSL0tPIVNtGsnxzo-makVUabU4SezLa-k3FM3rchTfDx3UfnYpFxlWs2f5uE9IY8w5W6SirizzmfePyWFYHoprfgTWHOxuC/s640/IMG_9142.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><i>Tuesday : <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2012/09/easy-roasted-chicken-our-first-dinner.html">Easy Roasted Chicken</a><br /><br />I'll use leftover chicken in Chicken & Biscuits on Thursday.</i><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYPjU4vAUE-8jCjjEBVnHJUSF3XkaIS1_EHzXX6CtDZ1KPACn-6sw44G0AWwvmpxkEfVPz9u4X7jBuNQzDirRtyjYG8n5rKIXf0cRyTa1HGhIIWe3EUggaUr8uY8WQ5P8v8uTdCqdE2kTb/s400/IMG_9257.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYPjU4vAUE-8jCjjEBVnHJUSF3XkaIS1_EHzXX6CtDZ1KPACn-6sw44G0AWwvmpxkEfVPz9u4X7jBuNQzDirRtyjYG8n5rKIXf0cRyTa1HGhIIWe3EUggaUr8uY8WQ5P8v8uTdCqdE2kTb/s400/IMG_9257.jpg" width="266" /></a></i></div><br /><i>Wednesday : <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2012/09/make-ahead-meal-rustic-penne-shrimp.html">Make Ahead Rustic Shrimp & Penne in a Red Pepper Cream Sauce</a></i><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdTtDv3qHJhdN8oHGSfDt1KHldSB_B9g246AKl_VyzL-gtRpuW_fWOfPMbci0tPWFWJDLgCvVIXe9ZTrDP9sBREZk0aCbm1hETB682wJnA-wAGBclJ2sxFFZYVWoMzAe7GT5RUf3_3OPI/s640/chicken-biscuit.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdTtDv3qHJhdN8oHGSfDt1KHldSB_B9g246AKl_VyzL-gtRpuW_fWOfPMbci0tPWFWJDLgCvVIXe9ZTrDP9sBREZk0aCbm1hETB682wJnA-wAGBclJ2sxFFZYVWoMzAe7GT5RUf3_3OPI/s640/chicken-biscuit.png" width="305" /></a></div>Thursday : <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2013/08/chicken-chive-biscuits-pot-pie.html">Chicken & Chive Biscuit Pot Pie</a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoGD_j1l1GkUo1Xx2pXRH0VI9E1sRJLnD66hk5ap_HwuDkVc9SibVUKm4afdiHyxKMk9GiGUBIo32HEf1L_-PgxifLQ9xA2HicNIetmI2wkPqQqqhInzY-_t6dfwF-IIYairAx7fd1CwPi/s1600/herbs-grilling.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoGD_j1l1GkUo1Xx2pXRH0VI9E1sRJLnD66hk5ap_HwuDkVc9SibVUKm4afdiHyxKMk9GiGUBIo32HEf1L_-PgxifLQ9xA2HicNIetmI2wkPqQqqhInzY-_t6dfwF-IIYairAx7fd1CwPi/s1600/herbs-grilling.png" width="317" /></a></div><i>Friday : <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2014/06/grilling-with-herbs-steaks-herb-butter.html">Grilled Steaks with Veggies & Herbed Butter</a><br /><br />We're going out on Saturday, so staying in this Friday night. </i>

This Week's Menu : Roasted Chicken, Shrimp, Penne & Red Pepper Cream, Grilled Herb Butter Steaks

Good Monday Tuesday morning : ) It is time for the weekly menu plan. This is what my world looks like right now - tube rose (one of m...

8:38 AM

This Week's Menu | Roasted Chicken, Poached Salmon, Beef Stew

As promised!  Here is the menu I've planned for us this week.  Again, I tried to plan recipes that have some crossover ingredients to make prep and shopping more efficient.  Hope you enjoy them, too!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLMIh_-O4FddRkL7jqzh4BG5hCCNeMGkfFEKlazQjRd94nWf3nqdjNzSDfX1hQoLq-IBOqIS5ZbxZIlUgYilyIN5EibR8EP7-UHN4Outeguq56RnVsV7keZ9VM9jLksjzIZq1ojZLwImmA/s1600/lemon-chicken-rosemary-oliv.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLMIh_-O4FddRkL7jqzh4BG5hCCNeMGkfFEKlazQjRd94nWf3nqdjNzSDfX1hQoLq-IBOqIS5ZbxZIlUgYilyIN5EibR8EP7-UHN4Outeguq56RnVsV7keZ9VM9jLksjzIZq1ojZLwImmA/s400/lemon-chicken-rosemary-oliv.png" width="265" /></a></div>Sunday :  <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2014/04/roasted-chicken-with-lemon-rosemary_8.html">Roasted Chicken with Lemon Olives, Rosemary & Thyme</a><br /><br />*Make sure to prepare extra chicken to use on Tuesday for the Pasta.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDHKF7IT0pZXosdK0ejK3deIGwmPktaSZWadztdU0npGOIsFDIwo3pp2a86XudP-dHii4c-zjeaB1_WfxJb1Tuw_RRP6uNLb9ptTIRK-4tZrGNuoCHADczdr0CCTidaPeTNXMo-X02HVvX/s1600/poached-salmon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDHKF7IT0pZXosdK0ejK3deIGwmPktaSZWadztdU0npGOIsFDIwo3pp2a86XudP-dHii4c-zjeaB1_WfxJb1Tuw_RRP6uNLb9ptTIRK-4tZrGNuoCHADczdr0CCTidaPeTNXMo-X02HVvX/s1600/poached-salmon.jpg" width="266" /></a>Monday : <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2014/01/poached-salmon-vegetables-with-lemon.html">Poached Salmon & Vegetables</a><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfIASAPzzHu-2hBFcRGBbEu93d8Y4ou5UUvL8d1rFQr1uA0v1eBtSmFOfs-2Wm3Ga3a5mXjF_S5voFJqU12RLTBmrdvB516u1Po-pstI6Gb_kesirSfImRnatR4VZE0fBWDmaZIp46N3aH/s1600/grilled-chicken-pasta.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfIASAPzzHu-2hBFcRGBbEu93d8Y4ou5UUvL8d1rFQr1uA0v1eBtSmFOfs-2Wm3Ga3a5mXjF_S5voFJqU12RLTBmrdvB516u1Po-pstI6Gb_kesirSfImRnatR4VZE0fBWDmaZIp46N3aH/s1600/grilled-chicken-pasta.png" width="266" /></a>Tuesday : Leftovers into... <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2014/06/penne-with-grilled-chicken-spinach.html">Pasta with Chicken</a><br /><br />Use leftover chicken from Sunday night for this - recipe calls for grilled chicken, but roasted will work perfectly.  <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy_kCkYtOyHHeqJ14SXiwSNAYfHOZQdzDHZgp9R29czm46bkJpefJwm4RXO1ZO0KktOnQdQ0lt5ZIjFVbyIjmBcR0-61W6joRW98F0MnlAP-Tu_uPioCSnUu3GpQCdODt7es4ixu3Ul3nN/s400/beef-stew.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy_kCkYtOyHHeqJ14SXiwSNAYfHOZQdzDHZgp9R29czm46bkJpefJwm4RXO1ZO0KktOnQdQ0lt5ZIjFVbyIjmBcR0-61W6joRW98F0MnlAP-Tu_uPioCSnUu3GpQCdODt7es4ixu3Ul3nN/s400/beef-stew.jpg" width="266" /></a>Wednesday : <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2012/10/braised-beef-italian-vegetable-stew.html">Italian Vegetable & Braised Beef Stew</a><br />I make this without the beef, too, on nights when I don't have all day to braise the meat. <br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIbbDw9-AcfQ1g1afMRH7eQB2VLVf8hOmWk-UPdF0H2MYwgwFIuHomAJkjXckv0tyPenK8b38zPdKELVNJGV5QEbwr5bsqhDEWbtQ2RQXSYRbu-nlOUaxebLWCIFKzXa9YEKL1i8NGv4CB/s1600/fg-thai-steak-noodles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIbbDw9-AcfQ1g1afMRH7eQB2VLVf8hOmWk-UPdF0H2MYwgwFIuHomAJkjXckv0tyPenK8b38zPdKELVNJGV5QEbwr5bsqhDEWbtQ2RQXSYRbu-nlOUaxebLWCIFKzXa9YEKL1i8NGv4CB/s1600/fg-thai-steak-noodles.jpg" width="290" /></a></div><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2014/07/thai-steak-vegetable-noodles-in-peanut.html">Thai Steak Noodle Salad with a Spicy Peanut Sauce </a><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />

This Week's Menu | Roasted Chicken, Poached Salmon, Beef Stew

As promised! Here is the menu I've planned for us this week. Again, I tried to plan recipes that have some crossover ingredients to ma...

11:30 AM

This Week's Menu | Emma's Back to School ; (

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkGLT-tlB4TgzOX1S7SGcGzFO7uaWOzBavJBbeMHDIKhRMzba0o6PLVbTPI2WVUzAsSfwhWIGcPIHCwLuqfDSRYmsz0gZKX6OstbBKvktPDPmw_Z1rmPx3JCHXj6rKT8jF_5f16WWi7cSD/s1600/IMG_3415.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkGLT-tlB4TgzOX1S7SGcGzFO7uaWOzBavJBbeMHDIKhRMzba0o6PLVbTPI2WVUzAsSfwhWIGcPIHCwLuqfDSRYmsz0gZKX6OstbBKvktPDPmw_Z1rmPx3JCHXj6rKT8jF_5f16WWi7cSD/s1600/IMG_3415.jpg" width="426" /></a>Right now I'm feeling very love/hate towards Back to School.  I love the rhythms of routine that go along with the school year - my walk with Mr. Darcy in the morning, off to school for Emma, work for Mike and me, then to the grocery store with Emma when I pick her up in the early afternoon, we take a walk around the neighborhood, then we make dinner.  I love that little routine of ours.<br /><br />What I'm hating right now was dropping her off at her first day in the big kid classroom.  She was so brave and sweet with a little hint of timidness when we dropped her off this morning.  I am so proud of the brave, big girl she has become, but heartbroken at the same time.  She seems so grown up as she showed off her new backpack to her teachers and then held their hand as she set off to explore the new classroom.<br /><br />In her old room (the "Two's & Toddlers" room) she had gotten so comfortable and would bounce around the second she entered.  This day felt different.  She was so putting on such a strong, brave face even though I could feel her little nerves as she entered.  She was in control of her fears, and she was calm.  When did my little girl transform into this lovely little tiny lady?  <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLaF6ks5pBE-D8mOQEFrlo-e4bOyq5aJWObbufLHJVGjlUWBmsABfNLuxEVFaDiTrGTw7qKQluvyjLsP1KCVsXDPiLke3xgqJDcDnZxeDDp8L5cwA0dhlFb5VbTOIs1GHi7sdgRh1eQLxz/s1600/IMG_3389.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLaF6ks5pBE-D8mOQEFrlo-e4bOyq5aJWObbufLHJVGjlUWBmsABfNLuxEVFaDiTrGTw7qKQluvyjLsP1KCVsXDPiLke3xgqJDcDnZxeDDp8L5cwA0dhlFb5VbTOIs1GHi7sdgRh1eQLxz/s1600/IMG_3389.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>Like all working Mom's I struggle with the decision to work.  I'm very fortunate that I get to be a little of both - I work from home for 20 hours a week divided over a couple of days, then get to be a stay-at-home mom the rest of the time. I love having Emma here at home with me while we keep the house, piddle in the kitchen, run our errands and go exploring outside.  But there is a part of me that needs to work, too.  I'm a worker bee - it is the way I'm built.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDdjwCH4yj1kn0XRotaFGBwaWYrR3eGDX1DHvKFgkeenBG5Im4K5N3KEk9rZeEiJ0W22OD9Zr1siKl2W0PjmkLlUXW-r00vc4uoSO14-6jl9buWo-Hq4Err5XvkJJ8HLE8XmxagDyNtSbr/s1600/IMG_3409.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDdjwCH4yj1kn0XRotaFGBwaWYrR3eGDX1DHvKFgkeenBG5Im4K5N3KEk9rZeEiJ0W22OD9Zr1siKl2W0PjmkLlUXW-r00vc4uoSO14-6jl9buWo-Hq4Err5XvkJJ8HLE8XmxagDyNtSbr/s1600/IMG_3409.jpg" width="488" /></a> <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />I've come to terms with the fact that I'm best as a Mom and Wife when I have that couple of days a week to work, let my brain focus and be creative.  Of course, there is always a part of me that feels a bit guilty for loving what I do so much, but at the end of the day, I hope Emma finds a passion that can be as fulfilling for her, too.  I'm so grateful that I have the best of both worlds, but I'm very much missing my Emma this morning.<br /><br />Our summer break has given me a chance to reflect on what I do here and given me some new perspective and inspiration.  I'm attempting to be more organized in all aspects of my life - on here and at home.  One thing that is always a priority for us as a family is dinner time every night.  Every single night we sit down together as a family and eat at the dinner table.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ81WctfJ9RRzFdiIlDqZ6ywExytv9QJHxFCKC8E0WZj0aXrbcXB6v5TDZk7dmTMZ2ZZ8UO0R70Kln0k8INDZh_pJop0Dd9gqUwK5dcQn4gvoRFXijapQvYeO9wESBY05Z-sS5q7nuTt6n/s1600/IMG_3399.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ81WctfJ9RRzFdiIlDqZ6ywExytv9QJHxFCKC8E0WZj0aXrbcXB6v5TDZk7dmTMZ2ZZ8UO0R70Kln0k8INDZh_pJop0Dd9gqUwK5dcQn4gvoRFXijapQvYeO9wESBY05Z-sS5q7nuTt6n/s1600/IMG_3399.jpg" width="426" /></a> <br />Because I've never been very organized about meal planning, we go to the store almost every day.  It is my goal to be more efficient with our errands, so I'm going to try to shop for a couple of days at a time so our afternoons are more open.  I'm also planning to incorporate one night of leftovers transformed into a new dinner.  I think this is a really smart way to be efficient with our time and money... after all, each night that I don't have to buy something for dinner is about a savings of $25-30, adding up to more than $100 a month with really no sacrifice at all.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZT7YjZbAQd3u833CAyIQ9wZNg9NCxvpNfvLiYQxOF2zVZPCS_1ueaSfbjKgjtesOZCTp4KXA8PFjbAr5i3JxC4f9gz7OoFHEGN9ydKtq6hcpOxy9mjy-hpYWblqA5ilOMNSA48zILCWHG/s1600/IMG_3406.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZT7YjZbAQd3u833CAyIQ9wZNg9NCxvpNfvLiYQxOF2zVZPCS_1ueaSfbjKgjtesOZCTp4KXA8PFjbAr5i3JxC4f9gz7OoFHEGN9ydKtq6hcpOxy9mjy-hpYWblqA5ilOMNSA48zILCWHG/s1600/IMG_3406.jpg" width="476" /></a></div><br /><br />I also am conscious that we have leftover options for lunches the next day for Mike and me.  Mike likes to workout over lunch, so if he can take something with him to the office, he earns an extra 30 minutes in his day if he doesn't have to stop for lunch.  <br /><br />I'm going to focus on sharing more recipes and home projects here this Fall.  You can expect to see at least 2 recipes each week, along with a home project (mostly inspiration boards and construction updates... slated to start in 1 month!).  Once a week I'll share a product update for the Store - the new Fall Collection is coming out this Thursday.<br /><br /><br /><br />I'm also planning to share our weekly meal plans here every Sunday so you can use our plan as inspiration for your own (of course, I'm already a day late this week!).  I'd love to hear more about how you organize your family's meal planning, too.  Right now I'm looking for lots of inspiration for make-ahead meals and ways to reuse leftovers.  Please share your favorites!<br /><br />This Week's Menu : <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTN_SCgWC6-Xo0sPJjkgbDeCMjWUz4sXZgHQAKA8j1Bxuzfis8idHMLISVs8h3hT_UUqnR4euM0DrK-RsEoux1l5kUG1vRyMZZgFbS8hkYL4FeA2-PEX_mb1BCKmqmiOmYXUFKdpFXSkLs/s1600/IMG_3315.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTN_SCgWC6-Xo0sPJjkgbDeCMjWUz4sXZgHQAKA8j1Bxuzfis8idHMLISVs8h3hT_UUqnR4euM0DrK-RsEoux1l5kUG1vRyMZZgFbS8hkYL4FeA2-PEX_mb1BCKmqmiOmYXUFKdpFXSkLs/s1600/IMG_3315.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Sunday : "<a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2014/08/our-favorite-spaghetti-sauce-homemade.html">The" Spaghetti Sauce & Homemade Meatballs</a> with <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2014/01/italian-restaurant-salad.html">Italian Restaurant Salad</a> and Easy <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2014/08/our-favorite-spaghetti-sauce-homemade.html">"Homemade" Garlic Bread</a><br /><br />Last week I shared our new favorite tomato sauce - the best, and simplest sauce you'll ever try.  This is a Sunday night staple at our house (or something equally as comforting like Pot Roast or Roasted Chicken).  I also love making this on a Sunday because leftover meatballs + garlic bread turn into meatball sandwiches for Mike's lunch.  <br /><br /><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAa9E1ypGPqOOdus2wRHUv-rHoE6n_dHg2Q2tA9yXTc0BsJhTMh7q7uJ_Hzh0Vz3GJ0yJzpwMFX_rno8s8W7EZnHqHMXfIbzW8y7hm2yJPnKS06L79fEoNheCF1CMMwh9Ia9e6x_-jGhc/s640/IMG_0061.JPG" width="640" /><br /><br />Monday : <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2013/01/crispy-lemon-chicken-with-basil-mashed.html">Meyer Lemon Chicken with Basil Mashed Potatoes</a><br /><br />This is one of my all time favorites.  You can grill the chicken and serve with veggies if you're in the mood for a lighter/fresher dinner, too.  I make sure to prepare extra chicken to use for the Bacon & Chicken Panini's the next night.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJvtjKkuT8o29Q83uRjul8-_bL4lKDWqbVX1GeX1yGoUlzQ0O4QyAyG1tFXf8xJu-teOsrdiUrYpLu-Su_jTkXptWcoyEQzGz-5S8K4EfGih8mCcyX45XviTDXpEwAY4e68O9Aq8Xpe919/s1600/IMG_3213.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJvtjKkuT8o29Q83uRjul8-_bL4lKDWqbVX1GeX1yGoUlzQ0O4QyAyG1tFXf8xJu-teOsrdiUrYpLu-Su_jTkXptWcoyEQzGz-5S8K4EfGih8mCcyX45XviTDXpEwAY4e68O9Aq8Xpe919/s1600/IMG_3213.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br />Tuesday : Leftovers Night : Tomato Bisque and Bacon Chicken Panini's<br /><br />Recipe to come tomorrow!  I use the left over Tomato Sauce to make tomato bisque by adding chicken stock and cream, then bringing it to a simmer.  We always have bacon and cheese, so this is something that I can make almost any night of the week.<br /><br /><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLFNFXefhvISi0jj3XJAjgZdPMvRfuTJpa9t7QDp7iwyDI9Zu40B8K5EzDcchsMSxWn8DiFCCEtyD8UcLQhsulUCgbYIPdNolQ3NLG30Tmf_gJwNuqCDT2_v-OhrxyNe0Fb-bMUdf2G_g/s640/meatloaf+close.jpg" width="640" /><br /><br />Wednesday : <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2013/01/1770-house-meatloaf-green-beans.html"> Mike's Favorite Meatloaf</a>, Chive Mashed Potatoes & Roasted Carrots with Salted Caramel Apple Pie<br /><br />Wednesday is one of my days home with Emma so we like to make a big meal and dessert that we can work on all day.  We use the Barefoot Contessa's Meatloaf recipe as a base, but I've made a couple of revisions that make it easier.  I'll share our version later this week... and that Apple Pie!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBvLi3TpxnKAHrKgtsP0tAnn27mjgAgTmWTKQ6Y0pjTFNxcJJueoDwhu2l2CEZf0BWzK1Wqdo8iiQlthGYuzpwAM0WiT2q9-KxCiDAsqioF1GwXHdjNJmmc4yk7_9h8dvJUFYIug46yXTP/s1600/IMG_3268.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBvLi3TpxnKAHrKgtsP0tAnn27mjgAgTmWTKQ6Y0pjTFNxcJJueoDwhu2l2CEZf0BWzK1Wqdo8iiQlthGYuzpwAM0WiT2q9-KxCiDAsqioF1GwXHdjNJmmc4yk7_9h8dvJUFYIug46yXTP/s1600/IMG_3268.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Thursday : <a href="http://nineandsixteen.blogspot.com/2014/07/recipe-korean-beef-tacos-with-mango.html">Tessa's Tacos</a><br /><br />We've always loved shredded beef tacos at our house, but now we have a new favorite that Tessa shared a couple of weeks ago.  It is called Korean Beef Tacos with a Mango & Cilantro Slaw.  Sooo good.  <br /><br />Friday : Pizza Night<br /><br />We go out almost every Friday night - usually to the pool for dinner, or something easy and family friendly.  <br /><br />Saturday : Parade & Carnival in Lexington<br /><br />This weekend we're headed back home to Lexington for the Heritage Days Festival!  Emma can't wait to see her cousins and go to Moo-Moo's Carnival.<br />............<br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWw7-Za8ZIer2LVo5F7xskS1u7Ghor2nALd6UFgB0bcJBbkUd8Wa7TNdTOXOnnQL7V16UUmAp2JfWmBEvVx3e5Ewwx8tuZiFTgRL4Cfd99ogb70zmnkUtZjEGc8ITpG0gb5tCCenLh8cZn/s1600/IMG_3425.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWw7-Za8ZIer2LVo5F7xskS1u7Ghor2nALd6UFgB0bcJBbkUd8Wa7TNdTOXOnnQL7V16UUmAp2JfWmBEvVx3e5Ewwx8tuZiFTgRL4Cfd99ogb70zmnkUtZjEGc8ITpG0gb5tCCenLh8cZn/s1600/IMG_3425.jpg" width="426" /></a>Just writing this post and planning our week has eased my heartache just a little from this morning.  I'm planning to spend the rest of the morning finishing packaging products for the big unveiling of the new Fall Collection and organizing the new craft station I made out of cabinetry this weekend - can't wait to share photos later this week.  <br /><br />Happy Monday,<br />Jenny<br /><br /><br /><br />

This Week's Menu | Emma's Back to School ; (

Right now I'm feeling very love/hate towards Back to School. I love the rhythms of routine that go along with the school year - my walk...

8:45 AM

Minimalist Kitchen Idea