Slow cooker, chicken pot pie soup

 

With the fall season upon us who doesn’t like a quick easy crockpot meal? I have seen this recipe on Facebook for a while now and decided I’m going to make it this weekend. 

              *Ingredients*

Two large boneless skinless chicken breast

One can peas

One can whole corn

One cup chopped carrots

One celery stock, chopped

Two medium potatoes, peeled and diced

One small onion diced

4 ounces of cream cheese (room temperature)

4 cups of chicken broth

One tablespoon of chicken bouillon

2 cups of heavy cream

One tube of biscuit dough

Two cans of cream of chicken soup

                 *Directions*

And your slow cooker, combined chicken, peas, corn, carrots, celery, potatoes, cream cheese, chicken broth, chicken, bouillon. Cover and cook on low 4 to 6 hours.

About 30 minutes before serving shredded chicken with two forks and string, heavy cream and salt and pepper to taste.

Biscuits according to package directions

Serve with biscuit on top.  

Chicken breast in bottom of crockpot. Did spray with pam for help with cleanup.

These are the ingredients I used to make the chicken pot pie. 

Food Truck Championship

 This is the 7th Annual Oklahoma Food Truck Championship.  It is held in Chickasha Oklahoma in the historic downtown.  This year 37 different food trucks will be competing for the $10,000 dollar prize. 

My coworker/friend Mindy went with me.  We had so much fun walking and listening to the DJ.  1pm bands will start playing on the main stage. 

I can’t turn down a  muffuletta sandwich.  It was so good. I thought it was as good as the ones I have enjoyed in New Orleans.  I will keep The Bayou in mind and will frequent it when I can. 

I only bought a half of the muffuletta and it was more than enough for me.  I took this half  home for later.   Their line was very busy.  

How cute is this display?  It was promoting Squatchmoes BBQ.  They are located in Oklahoma City but looks like they go to many different locations in Oklahoma and Kansas

Their set up and display and truck was unique.  As I was doing some research seems like they are closing up for good in October.  What a shame.

Am doing some people watching and listening to some old school music from the DJ.  I absolutely love food trucks.  This was my second year to attend.  You can bet I will show up next year as well. 

Much better of the entire set up without people in the way!

Going to the Circus

In 1985 Robert Johnson, Jim Herbert and Curtis Cainan started a small show. The three alternated announcing, performing and selling concessions during each performance for the 1st year. They were based in Queen Creek, Arizona until 2001.  Then the new ownership moved its base of operations to Hugo Oklahoma. Hugo is known as “Circus City, USA for a good reason. It’s the 3rd active circus currently operating from the seat of Choctaw County. 

Brooks and Nana ready to watch the circus.  He is super excited to see the circus. Everything he seen he wanted to do. He wanted to do the huge inflatable slide, face painting and the horses that go in circles.  Then of course he wanted all the circus food.  He ended up being happy with a snow cone and popcorn. 

Jessica and Hattie and I enjoying the circus. 

My oldest son Blake and I.  

Hattie is our little dancer. She is in dance class and is loving it. She was moving to the fun circus music.

Sweet Kyndall and Brooks.  We were watching Leo the clown entertain us while waiting on the Circus to start. The vendors keep going around selling souvenirs and Circus food.  I did give Kyndall and Brooks down to get two bags of peanuts.  A circus isn’t complete without peanuts! 

Simone Key hanging by her hair and doing her act. I’d be in tears as I am so tender headed. She did a amazing act that was spell binding.

The Loyal family doing their horseback riding act was fun to watch. The circus is 90 minutes in length.  Brooks and Kyndall enjoyed the performers and the lion and tiger acts.

I took this picture of the truck because I was curious where the circus was located. I shouldn’t have been surprised that they were located in Hugo Oklahoma. 

The crowd came early to enjoy the face painting and inflatables as well as the horse ride.  Most everyone grabbed circus food before entering the big top.  Brooks really wanted a souvenir at the start of the circus, he finally got the light up spin toy he wanted during intermission.  

They sit the big top up in the field of Eddie Palmer ball field. The same field my boys played ball on while they were in school. 

After the last show at 7:30 pm the circus was gone as quickly as it arrived.  The workers work as a well oiled unit and get it broke down extremely fast. 

So as I was doing research on this particular circus I came across a few fun facts that intrigued me. 

In English a circus can be: 

1. A traveling company of performers that may include acrobats, clowns, trained animals, and other novelty acts, that give shows usually in a circular tent

2. A spectacle; a noisy fuss

3. The modern circus was invented in London by trick horse-rider Philip Astley back in 1768

4. “Bello” is the famous clown from Ringling Bros. & Barnum & Bailey Circus

5. What is the first Circus ever?  Circus Maximus

6. The oldest form of Circus entertainment would be juggling. 

If you get a chance go see a traveling Circus. Watching the joy on my grandchildren’s faces made me so happy.  Was a pretty inexpensive experience for me to add to my memories. 

 

Mr and Mrs Trevor Grigsby

Can’t believe these two finally got married today.  They just went before a judge and got it done. I was really surprised that they didn’t tell me.  

Love this little family so much! 

Congratulations to my younger son and his new bride Mellisa.  They have been together for 6 years or more.  Do believe it was probably time to make it official. 

 

Budget planning

 

I haven’t blogged about budgeting in quite a while. Today I will be sharing some new and  old changes in my budget. 

I’m excited to focus on my finances for the last quarter of 2024, including setting a budget that aligns with my priorities and avoids over spending on gifts. 

I’m proud to have started my 401(k) and Roth plans, and I’m committed to contributing 10% and 5% respectively. Well, it may require some adjustments. I’m confident that I can manage my disposable income and maintain a tight budget to achieve my financial goals. 

Have started back using my cash envelope system. Which helps me stay on track with my expenses. I am prioritizing my emergency fund, Car, maintenance and medical expenses. I have not been current with saving my cash, Today is the day to get it started. 

We are trying to cook more homemade meals.  That’s a struggle for us in several ways. Mr.C. Isn’t in great health and standing for a period of time really hurts him.  He has been using our air fryer more and more.  I also have been trying to find crockpot meals to throw in before work.  

Our monthly grocery and household budget is $400.00.  If we run out of dairy, produce and fruits I pick up when I get paid.  So add another $100.00 to that figure. This total doesn’t include our fast food budget. Honestly I am not sure how much goes to eating out. Especially with the price of food rising everyday. Can you believe 18 eggs are now $5.57.  Yikes!   

I’ve had to take a step back from shopping online.  I found myself spending money on items that I really didn't need. This money would be better used going to my emergency fund.  Am working on putting back money for 3 months of bills.  My goal is to have 6 months of bill money put back for life’s emergencies. I have a binder with clear envelopes in it.  I have an envelope for each household bill with the projected amount I need for my goal.

I also pack my work lunch everyday.  Normally take leftovers or something easy such as sandwiches or homemade adult snack packs.  I like Turkey pepperoni, cheese cubes, crackers and grapes.  I also like pinwheels.  My lunch is only 30 minutes long, so I prefer quick lunches. 

This is just a few ways I am trying to figure out my budget and not overspend.  What ways do you save money for your budget? 

Autumn morning routine

 Morning mindset

I start my mornings with a prayer of gratitude and protection every morning before my feet hit the floor. I I believe this sets the tone for the day. Incorporating in your morning routine when the house is quiet and cold, put on your cozy socks, grab a throw and go to your comfy spot. I’ll bring my Bible and bible journaling book. This way I can reflect and study the Bible beefed the hectic day.  Trying not to be on social media during this time. I feel like phones kill the morning routines for me. I get caught up reading all the post on Facebook and do not get to my Bible journaling. True story. 

Remember your home is your sanctuary this fall! Do little things in the morning to make it inviting, cozy, and comforting all day. Make your bed every morning. Then pick up the dirty clothes and wipe up sinks and counters in the bathroom and kitchen. When you return home after work, it’s clean and sparkling for your nighttime routine.

Make your home, your Haven. Perhaps get a simple morning routine for your fall home like setting a tassel throw blanket over the edge of your sofa before you head to work that way in the evening you can get comfy after being in the cool evening air. Sometimes the little touches in your house makes all the difference. 

Fall Skin Care

It’s important that we nourish our body, mind and soul. Preparing for the fall does include the correct skin care.  During the cold temperatures, my skin gets very dry. I had to remind myself to drink plenty of water and eat hydrating fruits and vegetables to keep with the spirit of the season fall scented facemask.  It might take a few tries to get the right moisturizer for your face. Do not forget using the correct sunscreen as well. I tend to always go with a lot foundation for fall. 

Positive affirmations

Fall is a time for rest and transitions, why not practice affirmations that aligns with the season for example you can recite like the leaves I release what no longer serves me.

Save your affirmations as screensavers, Or write them on sticky notes and place where you can see them. 

Gratitude journal

Seasonal changes can greatly affect our mental health. Riding down what you’re grateful for can help lift your spirits and center your focus on the good things in your life. I tried to write three things that I’m grateful for every day in my planner. Just looking for the small blessings and makes the difference with my mindset. 

A few tips for a morning routine

Make a healthy warm warm breakfast. Warm food is easier to digest.

Fall scented candle, and journal your thoughts

Make a list of what you’re grateful for

Meditate or breathe deeply

Read an inspirational book

Do not forget self-care

Whatever you choose to do make sure that it makes you happy and you’re enjoying what you’re doing. Fall season is a great time to start new routines and new thoughts.

Fall themed books

As fall officially begins, I’m filled with gratitude for the opportunity to slow down and appreciate the beauty of the season. I can’t wait to embrace the cozy season with open arms! I’m proud of myself for prior terrorizing, self-care, and setting aside time for reading and relaxation. My personalized book list features a mix of romance and mystery and fantasy novels that I can’t wait to dive into, all while, sipping hot tea and snuggled up in my favorite throat. Here’s to embrace the cozy charm of fall and making lasting memories.

* A cup of Autumn ( Silver Falls)  by Melissa Mcclone

* Autumn Nights by Debbie Macomber

* Autumn Skies & Pumpkin Pies ( The Coleman Series) by Katie Winters

* The Pumpkin Spice Cafe 

* Cinnamon roll secrets by Kathleen Suzette

* Candy coated murder by Kathleen Suzette

* Autumn Alibi by Jennifer David Hesse

* Harvest and Hunt (An Autumn Cozy Paranormal) by Eva Belle

* Death by Pumpkin Spice by Alex Erickson

I can’t believe they’re only three months left in 2024. It has been a busy year, as I’ve challenged myself to be more active. Going into fall, I will be ready to unwind and enjoy some books.  During this season, I tend to read physical books instead of e-books. My carefully selected book list reflects my preferences. 

Do you have a favorite book you like to read in fall?  If so please let me know.  What is your favorite genre to read? Would love to hear from you! 

Eastside spa and dessert night!

Simple ingredients and easy to make this dessert. 

The finished product looks yummy. 

 My cousin Brenda called this morning to see if I was going to Eastside Baptist Church for the ladies night of spa and desserts.  I had seen it on Facebook but hadn’t gave it much thought.  After thinking about it I am going to attend.  Says to bring a dessert. It’s from 6:30 to 7:30 pm. 

Oreo Mud Pie

Ingredients:

1 box of chocolate pudding mix

2 cups of whole milk

2 containers of Cool whip

And crushed Oreo’s

Directions:

Mix the chocolate pudding mix as it says on box. Mix in both containers of cool whip, add one sleeve of crushed Oreos. Mix together. Add another sleeve of crushed Oreos on top. Place in fridge to chill for 2 hours and it’s done.  

I really enjoyed myself.  Am looking at a good church to attend, it’s been many years since I attended Eastside Baptist Church.  The vibe the ladies was giving off was much better than what I remembered. I am going to plan to attend next weekend.  

Who’s ready for fall?

It’s hard to believe we are already in fall season. I have some ideals on how to prepare for autumn. Do you do anything special for the autumn season as far as decorations or food?  I am always looking for seasonal recipes. 

This is a wreath that I redid last weekend. It looks so much better with the new items. This wreath did not take very long to finish.  I am very happy with the way it turned out. So many things to create around fall.

Be sure to spend time outdoors. 

Go for walks enjoy the cooler temperatures and Chris Pere. I’ve heard that being outdoors has proven health benefits, like reducing anxiety and depression. If go for a walk is out of the question just set outdoors and enjoy the weather. I enjoy rotten my penpal letters outside in the mornings.

Get out your seasonal decor

I love the vibrant colors of fall. There is something comforting about fall decor. I enjoy using several pumpkins in my home for decorations, along with fall pictures and leaves. I keep several fall colored throws around the house for when the air is chilly.

Incorporate fall flavors

Full has some amazing smells such as savory and sweet and delicious awaken these memories of fall with sense and flavors we all associate with the season, including:

Apple

Pumpkin

Maple

Cinnamon

Caramel

Enjoy a cup of warm apple cider or bacon apple pie. Make a pumpkin pie or bars. Don’t forget to heat up some spice potpourri And fill your home with seasonal fragrance. Incorporate fall veggies, like brussels sprouts, potatoes, and spinach and two daily meals. Search for some new soup Recipes to try as the weather gets colder.

Warm up your wardrobe

Weather is great for dressing in layers. Get those lightweight jackets, sweaters, and flannels from the closet and put back in rotation. Be sure to have your favorite hats, scarfs, and mittens ready.

These are just a few ideals to bring fall into your home and your life.  To me fall is a time to embrace changes coming our way. 

 

Santa Fe Chicken

Santa Fe Chicken in crockpot was extremely easy to make.  I did not have black beans in my pantry so used ranch style beans with jalapeños instead.  The ingredients was all items we had on hand. 

Ingredients 

Chicken breast

Green chilies with diced tomatoes

Black beans

Corn

Taco seasoning

Salt and pepper

Add all ingredients~ Mix slightly all the ingredients in a crockpot.

Cook Ingredients~ Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high 3 to 4 hours.

Remove chicken and place in bowl~ Shred the chicken and stir it back into the mixture.

Serve and enjoy~ Serve over rice or in a tortilla and enjoy.

What to serve with Santa Fe chicken? 

You can enjoy this recipe lots of different ways. You can serve it with cornbread, have it with rice. Serve with pasta. Make tacos or burritos.  You can even eat with a queso and chips. 

I put this on before I left for work so it was easy to get in the slow cooker.  Mr. C shredded the chicken and had the pasta ready for dinner. As you can see we made burritos and a pasta side.  It turned out really good. By now you may realize that I am all about easy recipes. 

 

Fall Bucket List

 Fall is finally here! 

Fall is my favorite season. With the crisp air, caramel latte, sweaters, fun socks, and do not forget pumpkin spice everything, there’s little not love.

As the day shorten and the temperatures cool. It’s still warm enough for outdoor activities, such as Taking walks and visiting festivals and farmer markets.

At the same time, we find ourselves indoors more. We make fall, comfort foods, make hot drinks, such as hot chocolate or pumpkin spice lattes.  Put on for movies to watch is a favorite at our house.

The colors of fall make me happy. Bold oranges, red and earth tones are everywhere. The Sunset in fall are very specific. The color pallets are a lot richer. I am so glad to see fall has arrived.

If you’re wanting to make this autumn special check out my list of fall activities.

Attend a fall festival

Go on a hayride

Go apple picking

Carve a pumpkin

Decorate for fall      

Bake a apple pie

Have fall candles burning

Bake pumpkin bread

Sit around the fire pit and have S’mores

Cozy up with a hot tea and a good book

Go to the drive-in movie

Indulge in your favorite Halloween candy

Visit a farmers market

Make a homemade pumpkin pie

Binge watch Harry Potter movies

Take a scenic drive in the fall foliage

Fill a Blessing box

Purchase an advent calendar for December

Go to the craft show

Make homemade hot chocolate

Visit a graveyard

Go to a fair

Attend a local football game

Make a cider Bellini

Make a fall wreath   ( my fall wreath is pictured above) 

Whatever you choose to do just get out enjoy the fall season.  I may not get all of these done this season, but I hope to get several of these accomplished.  I really want to do more baking this year.  Am going to be looking for fall recipes that is healthier for us. 

Let me know your favorite recipes.  Would love to hear what you have on your bucket list.

Dorito Casserole

We enjoy the Dorito Casserole.  We are having Alisha and Jonathan over for lunch today.  So we went with a family favorite. These are the ingredients we used along with a can of rotel (not pictured.) 

Browning the hamburger meat and onion first.  Then we open the cans and crush up the chips into a mixing bowl.  I also add a handful of cheese to mixture.  Once the meat is brown dump into the casserole dish.  We bake at 350 for about 30 minutes.  Then we cover top with cheese and let it melt. Takes about 10 minutes.  

This is the completed casserole.  We usually add jalapeños on top or even black olives.  Luther didn’t want to make it spicy since Alisha had been sick this past week.  

We also made a small pan to take over to Brody’s.  He absolutely loves our Dorito Casserole.  

I’ve been taking this to potluck dinners for many years.  I love how simple it is to make and it feeds a small crowd.  

 

DIY canvas print project

I have needed to add several pictures to my family wall.  I had 3 8x10 pictures printed at Walmart for this project.  I also picked up 10 canvas’s for a great price of $11.97.  That will give extra to keep wall updated.  The black paint also came from Walmart for only 97 cents. 

I painted the edges black.  As you can see it doesn’t have to be perfect as the picture will be covering most of it up. Be sure to prep your space, I placed a clear trash bag to keep mess at a minimal level.  I am always quite a messy crafter. 

Then you use modge podge on the canvas using a foam brush.  Sweeping it on with long strokes. Once that has dried then you will apply two coats of modge podge on top of the picture.  If you choose you can seal with a clear acrylic sealant. 

This is a super easy project that anyone can do.  Give it a try and you will see how easy it is to produce the look of the expensive canvas prints on a budget.