The DeVrieses

Happy Halloween!

2010-10-30T18:11:00.000-07:00

Odds are there arent many people checking in on this blog anymore. For those of you who do, heres an update!

Jaime is getting settled in at her new job teaching first grade in Comstock Park.

Jackie has been busy turning two, going to the zoo and trick or treating. Hes still trying to figure out how to ride his tricycle but he looks really cool doing it in his leather coat.

There are tons of new pictures on our Picasa web album so be sure to check them out.

Here We Are

2010-02-16T19:42:00.000-08:00

Weve been having so much playing in the snow that weve totally forgotten to keep you all updated as to whats going on. So heres whats going on.

Jaime has been working as a Math Interventionist at a Kentwood elementary school since the return from winter (Christmas) break. Dave no longer works at Sears and is working full time at Village Inn now. Jack has been very busy smiling, walking, running, climbing, laughing, playing and being ridiculously cute.

Most of you should have received an email about this but in case you didnt, we have new, local, phone numbers. They can be found on the contact info page. Were also going to be phasing out our website. We will be using this blog for keeping people updated and will have pictures on Picasa. (http://picasaweb.google.com/david.ross.devries) Check back here and hopefully there will be another update in the next four months!

One Year Until Hes Two

2009-10-15T02:05:00.000-07:00

Our little boy is the big 1 now and had a very fun party to celebrate it. Thanks to everyone who was able to come out. It means a lot to us. Ive put some pictures in the gallery from the party so check them out.

Someone is Turning One

2009-09-22T05:42:00.000-07:00

Weve decided to have Jacks birthday party at Pinewood Park in Kentwood. There is a pavilion in the middle of the park with picnic tables that we will be meeting at. Its going to be on Saturday October 10th from 4pm until 6pm. We are going to have cake and ice cream and anyone whos inclined to may come. We certainly dont expect it but if youd like to get a present, Jack could use clothes size 12 month or bigger. Im sure hed like toys too if thats more fun for you. He does have plenty of bibs, blankets and stuffed animals already.

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There are also about two dozen new pictures up in the gallery.

Who is that handsome boy?

2009-09-10T10:32:00.000-07:00

So, we've caught some flack as of late for not updating this site. True, the last pictures of Jack are in Arizona, and when he didn't have hair. He is now 11 months old...almost a year! I can't believe it. We are in the beginning stages of planning a Birthday Party for him. He is adorable and amazing and more than I ever dreamed I could have. He makes everything worth it. He's so happy being back home with Grandmas and Grandpas and lots of little baby friends. He crawls like a mad man, cruises on all the furniture, and has taken several steps! Today I thought he was going to just start walking. He took three steps from a chair to his little shopping cart without a second thought.

Dave is at Sears at Woodland and just started delivering pizzas for Village Inn again. I'm at J. Crew again, and I found a long term sub position. After several interviews and rejections, I took a first grade position until November 2nd at my mom's school. It's been great so far, and just like having my class back!

Here's what you really wanted:

Home at Last

2009-06-18T01:12:00.000-07:00

We completly missed the month of May, and honestly there was so much going on that I dont remember any of it. In the end we are back in Grand Rapids and happy to be here. Dave is working at Sears and Jaime is working part time at J Crew again while she searches for a teaching job. Jack is very busy being the cutest little man in the whole world and is having lots and lots of fun with his grandmas and grandpas.

Weve added a couple dozen new pictures to the gallery so be sure to check them out.

Jackie Bananas

2009-04-26T13:55:00.000-07:00

If you're wondering about the nickname, it was given to him by one of the toddlers at the babysitter's...and we love it. So many new things every day. On Friday, Jack decided it was time for him to sit up. So, he sat on his side from all fours and then sat up! He's almost crawling...a lot of rocking and lunging going on. All this is still not fast enough for him it seems. He's just not content sitting around. On Saturday we took him swimming for the first time. He wasn't really sure what was going on and probably wondered why we were in such a big bathtub...be he sure was cute! We're getting anxious for our move. It's only five weeks away...so close now! Jack can't wait to meet everyone!

Action Jack

2009-04-12T07:07:00.000-07:00

Wow, it's been busy around here! Grandma and Grandpa DeBruin came to visit Jack. He turned 6 months old and visited the doctor. Today is his first Easter, and he's so excited he's trying to crawl! And, our upcoming move is getting closer and closer. Dave told me yesterday that we're only here for 7 more weeks...that's insane! We couldn't be more excited. We wish you all a Happy Easter, and can't wait to see you!

With Grandma DeBruin

6 months old already!

Happy Easter!

Attempting to crawl!

Yes...he has a tail.

Best Friends Are We

2009-03-26T03:23:00.000-07:00

Mr Jack and Hudson have become best buddies the last couple weeks. Jack has learned that the doggie is soft and loves it when he licks his hands or feet. Hudson has learned that the baby is messy and tasty so he likes to lick his hands and feet.

In other new I should have a job waiting for me in GR. Hopefully I dont jinx anything but I heard back from one of the Sears in Grand Rapids and they should have a position open for me as a tech there when we move back. Now its still two months away and any number of things could happen between now and then but things are looking good as far as thats concerned.

There are a bunch more new pictures in the gallery.

Jack is 5 months old!

2009-03-09T12:11:00.000-07:00

Wow! Time goes so fast. Jack is laughing and rolling over and eating rice cereal and applesauce now. What a big boy! So many changes in the last month. We are getting so excited about coming home...yeah, we've already planned out our route and everything. Jack's Grandpa DeVries was just in town, and we're also looking forward to Grandma and Grandpa DeBruin's visit soon. We'll be very busy until the end of May.

Loving his big "Fred" bear.

Jack woke up this way.

With Grandpa DeVries

Mmmm...enjoying some rice cereal.

4 Months

2009-02-06T05:26:00.000-08:00

Today is Jacks 4 month birthday!

Fabulous Wet Burrito

2009-01-24T06:47:00.000-08:00

Tasty burritos found on allrecipes.com.

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef

½ cup chopped onion

1 clove garlic, minced

½ teaspoon cumin

¼ teaspoon salt

1/8 teaspoon pepper

1 (4.5 ounce) can diced green chile peppers

1 (16 ounce) can refried beans

1 (15 ounce) can chili without beans (We like to make this one with 1½ cup of leftover homemade chili.)

1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed tomato soup

1 (10 ounce) can enchilada sauce

6 (12 inch) flour tortillas, warmed

2 cups shredded lettuce

1 cup chopped tomatoes

2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese

½ cup chopped green onions

Directions

Crumble ground beef into a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook and stir until evenly browned. Add onion, and cook until translucent. Drain grease, and season with garlic, cumin, salt and pepper. Stir in the green chilies and refried beans until well blended. Turn off heat, but keep warm.

In a saucepan, combine the chili without beans, tomato soup and enchilada sauce. Mix well, and cook over medium heat until heated through. Turn off heat and keep warm.

Place a warmed tortilla on a plate, and spoon a generous 1/2 cup of the ground beef mixture onto the center. Top with lettuce and tomato to your liking. Roll up tortilla over the filling. Spoon a generous amount of the sauce over the top, and sprinkle with cheese and green onions. Heat in the microwave for 30 seconds, or until cheese is melted. Repeat with remaining tortillas.

Vegetable Beef Soup

2009-01-24T06:12:00.000-08:00

Another soup creation from Dave that is based loosely on this recipe.

Ingredients

1-1½ pounds stew meat

2 garlic cloves, pressed

8 cups water

4 beef bouillon cubes

1 envelope dry onion soup mix

1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce

1 potato, diced

1 medium onion, diced

3 stalks celery, chopped

1 (16 ounce) package frozen vegetables

1 cup elbow macaroni

Directions

Brown stew meat in pressed garlic.

Mix water, bouillon, soup, sauce, potato, onion, celery and vegetables in large pot and bring to boil.

Add noodles and cook until al dente.

Add browned stew meat, mix and serve.

Bruschetta Chicken

2009-01-24T06:05:00.000-08:00

Flavorful chicken recipe from our Taste of Home cookbook.

Ingredients:

½ cup all-purpose flour

½ cup egg substitute

4 boneless skinless chicken breast halves (4 ounces each)

¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

¼ cup dry bread crumbs

1 tablespoon butter, melted

2 large tomatoes, seeded and chopped

3 tablespoons minced fresh basil

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 tablespoon Crisco® Light Olive Oil

½ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon pepper

Directions:

Place flour and eggs in separate shallow bowls. Dip chicken in flour, then in eggs; place in a greased 13-in. x 9-in. baking dish. Combine the Parmesan cheese, bread crumbs and butter; sprinkle over chicken.

Loosely cover baking dish with foil. Bake at 375° for 20 minutes. Uncover; bake 5-10 minutes longer or until a meat thermometer reads 170°.

Meanwhile, in a small bowl, combine the remaining ingredients. Spoon over the chicken. Return to the oven for 3-5 minutes or until tomato mixture is heated through.

2009-01-18T04:11:00.000-08:00

Today my family is remembering and celebrating my Grandma Crane. I wish I could be there. Grandma, we are celebrating and remembering you here too. We love you and miss you.

Fiesta Chicken & Rice Bake

2009-01-07T06:07:00.000-08:00

Campbell's Soup recipe originally found here.

Ingredients:

1 can (10¾ ounces) Campbell's® Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup (Regular or 98% Fat Free)

1 cup Pace® Chunky Salsa OR Pace® Picante Sauce

½ cup water

1 cup whole kernel corn

¾ cup uncooked regular long-grain white rice

4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts halves

Paprika

½ cup shredded Cheddar cheese

Directions:

Mix the soup, salsa, water, corn and rice in a 2-quart shallow baking dish. Top with the chicken and sprinkle with the paprika. Cover.

Bake at 375°F. for 45 minutes or until chicken is cooked through. Sprinkle with the cheese.

Christmas Morning Egg Dish

2009-01-07T05:49:00.000-08:00

Jaime's mom makes this deliscious egg dish every year for Christmas.

Ingredients

8 eggs, beaten

½ cup flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

16 ounces small curd cottage cheese

2 cups shredded montery jack cheese

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

8 ounces diced green chilies, drained

¼ cup butter, melted

½ teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon chili powder

Directions

Combine eggs, flour and baking powder. Mix well.

Mix in remaining ingredients.

Pour into lightly greased 13x9 baking dish.

Bake at 325° for 35-45 minutes or until solid in middle.

Egg Salad Sandwich

2009-01-07T05:06:00.000-08:00

Jaime's famous egg salad sandwich recipe. Dave likes to add some celery for a little extra crunch.

Ingredients

2 eggs, boiled

2 tablespoon mayo

2 teaspoon mustard

celery, diced

paprika

bread

Directions

Mix all ingredients and put on bread.

Cheesy Ham & Potato Frittata

2009-01-03T10:21:00.000-08:00

Breakfast, lunch or dinner, this Kraft recipe is always good.

Ingredients

½ cup milk

1 pkg. (10.23 oz.) VELVEETA Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

2 cups chopped ham

1 small onion, chopped (about ½ cup)

½ of a medium green pepper, chopped (about ½ cup)

5 eggs, lightly beaten

Directions

Combine 1¾ cups hot water, milk, Seasoned Potatoes, ham, onion and green pepper in large skillet. Bring to boil on medium-high heat. Reduce heat to medium-low; simmer 12 to 15 minutes or until potatoes are tender, stirring occasionally.

Stir in Cheese Sauce until well blended.

Add eggs; mix well. Reduce heat to low; cover. Cook 15 minutes or until set in center. Let stand 5 minutes before cutting into 5 wedges to serve.

11.5 weeks

2008-12-24T10:22:00.000-08:00

Yes, I realize we've been lax with the pictures lately. I'm on winter break (yeah!) and have some time now to post a few pictures. Be sure to check out the gallery for new shots...including Jack smiling! We visited Santa at the mall today and Jack slept through this first encounter. We wish we could be back home for Christmas or that somehow we could see everyone...it's just not in the cards this year. Grandma, we love you and are praying for you.

Jack's first meeting with Santa.

2 months

2008-12-07T13:57:00.000-08:00

Jack turned 2 months old yesterday and we celebrated by going to the doctor and getting 3 shots! Jack (and I) handled it pretty well I thought. He cried for a short time and was sleepy and a little fussy for the rest of the day. We also survived my first week back at work. It was long and difficult, and there were some tears (from me, not Jack), but overall I think we all did a good job!

Jack's first day at the babysitter's.

Jack at 2 months old.

Sweet Potatoes with Apples

2008-12-01T05:51:00.000-08:00

A wonderful side dish found in our The Taste of Home Cookbook.

Ingredients

3 to 3½ pounds sweet potatoes

2 tart apples, peeled, cored and cut into ¼ inch rings.

½ cup orange juice

¼ cup packed brown sugar

¼ teaspoon ground ginger

¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon

2 tablespoons butter

Directions

Place sweet potatoes in a large saucepan and cover with water. Bring to boil. Reduce heat; cover and cook for 30 minutes or until just tender. Drain and cool slightly. Peel and cut into ¼ inch slices.

In a greased 13x9x2 baking dish, alternately layer potatoes and apples. Pour orange juice over top. Combine the brown sugar, ginger and cinnamon; sprinkle over potatoes and apples. Dot with butter.

Bake, uncovered, at 350° for 35-45 minutes or until apples are tender and heated through.

8 Weeks

2008-12-01T05:21:00.000-08:00

Today Mr Baby Jack turns 8 weeks old. Its also Mommys first day back to work and Daddys first whole day alone with the little man.

We had a wonderful Thanksgiving despite the Lions and Cardinals losing. Dan came over and we had a turkey with stuffing, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes and rolls, with pumpkin pie and homemade banket for dessert.

Saturday we went and got Jacks first Christmas tree. Hudson hasnt figured out that theres a secret bowl of water under it for him yet this year so this tree might make it all the way through the holiday.

We continue to add pictures to the gallery and the cookbook now has 40 recipies in it and were adding more and more every week.

Most of you have probably heard already, weve decided to move back to Michigan after Jaime finishes this school year and our lease is up. This means that by June 4th we should be back in Grand Rapids. (Just in time for Jacks first festival.)

Smoked Sausage in Tomato Sauce

2008-11-25T10:14:00.000-08:00

Slightly modified version of a recipe found on allrecipes.com

Ingredients

1 pound package smoked sausage, sliced

1 cup water

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes

1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce

1 cube beef bouillon

2 zucchini, sliced

Directions

Place the sausage in a skillet over medium heat. Cook 5 minutes, until evenly brown.

Mix the water and flour in a small bowl, until flour is dissolved. Stir into the skillet. Mix in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef bouillon, and zucchini. Cook 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce is thickened and zucchini is tender.

Serve over rice or noodles.

7 weeks

2008-11-24T11:25:00.000-08:00

He's getting so big and it's our last week together. Next Monday, when he's 8 weeks, I'll be back at work for 12 hours. I have a class the very first night back! Jack gets to spend that day with Daddy. Happy Thanksgiving to everyone!

6 weeks (on 11/17)

2008-11-23T01:25:00.000-08:00

Here are pictures of Jack at 6 weeks and during a visit from Great Grandma DeBruin, Aunt Diane, and Aunt Darlene.

Baked Pork Chops

2008-11-18T13:06:00.000-08:00

Jack's great grandma DeBruin made this for us when she came to visit us in Phoenix.

Ingredients

¼ cup brown sugar

½ cup ketchup

¾ cup water

pork chops

salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Salt and pepper pork chops and place in a shallow baking pan.

Combine sugar, ketchup and water. Spoon over pork chops.

Bake at 350° 30 minutes covered. Remove cover and bake 30 more minutes. (For thicker chops add 30 minutes to covered time.)

Cheddar Broccoli Chicken

2008-11-18T03:00:00.000-08:00

Another soup can recipe.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts

1 (10.75 ounce) can Campbell's® Condensed Broccoli Cheese Soup or Campbell's® Condensed 98% Fat Free Broccoli Cheese Soup

1/3 cup milk

2 cups fresh broccoli flowerets or frozen broccoli flowerets

4 cups hot mashed potatoes

Directions

Heat oil in skillet. Add chicken and cook until browned.

Add soup, milk and broccoli. Heat to a boil. Cover and cook over low heat 5 minutes or until done. Serve over potatoes.

Aunt Fannie's Dinner

2008-11-18T02:38:00.000-08:00

I don't know who aunt Fannie is but she has an awesome goulash here. Jaime found this recipe on allrecipes.com

Ingredients

½ cup uncooked elbow macaroni

1 pound ground beef

½ onion, chopped

1 teaspoon garlic powder

salt and pepper to taste

1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce

1 cup stewed, diced tomatoes

1 (15 ounce) can whole kernel corn, drained

Directions

Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until al dente; drain.

In a large skillet over medium heat, saute the ground beef for 5 minutes. Add the onion and saute for 5 to 10 more minutes. Season with garlic powder, salt and pepper to taste. Add the tomato sauce, stewed OR diced tomatoes, corn and cooked macaroni. Stir well and allow to heat through, about 5 to 7 minutes.

Season with garlic powder, salt and pepper to taste. Add the tomato sauce, stewed OR diced tomatoes, corn and cooked macaroni. Stir well and allow to heat through, about 5 to 7 minutes.

Grandpa Tozer's Chicken

2008-11-18T02:25:00.000-08:00

Dave's stepdad, Bruce, made this deliscious grilled chicken for us when they came to Phoenix to see Jack.

Ingredients

1tbsp soy sauce

1tbsp Worcestershire sauce

2tbsp lemon juice

1 stick butter

Lawry's season salt

garlic salt

onion salt

chicken

Directions

Melt butter and add sauces and juice

Grill washed chicken.

While chicken is cooking, baste with butter mix and season with salts.

5 weeks

2008-11-10T04:31:00.000-08:00

I can't believe he's 5 weeks already! Time is going so fast...soon I'll be back at work and won't get to spend all day with him. Hopefully my days will go fast, then he'll be just across the street! By the way, he's already outgrown a few outfits...Dave's been diligent in making sure we have photos of the clothes before we retire them!

4 weeks old!

2008-11-05T14:07:00.000-08:00

When do we say he's a month old? On November 6?

Big Update!

2008-11-01T08:59:00.000-07:00

Wow...I can't believe how fast time is going! So, you saw a 2 week picture, but no 1 week picture. Here are a bunch of random pictures that I've been meaning to post!

One week old.

Two weeks old.

Three weeks old.

Grandma and Grandpa DeBruin come to visit.

Grandma and Grandpa Merchant come to visit.

Cute Halloween outfits!

Key Lime Pie

2008-10-30T09:16:00.000-07:00

Dave's mom found this delicious and easy pie recipe from Keebler.

Ingredients

¼ cup water

1 package (4-serving size) sugar free lime flavor gelatin

2 containers (6 oz.) fat-free key lime pie yogurt

1 tub (8 oz.) frozen reduced-fat non-dairy whipped topping, thawed

1 Keebler® Ready Crust® Reduced Fat Graham Pie Crust

Directions

In microwave-safe measuring cup heat water on high (100% power) for 45 seconds to 1 1/2 minutes or until boiling. Whisk in gelatin until dissolved.

In large bowl whisk together gelatin mixture and yogurt. Fold in whipped topping. Carefully spread in crust. Refrigerate at least 4 hours or until set.

Garnish as desired. Store in refrigerator.

2 Weeks Old

2008-10-20T14:53:00.000-07:00

Best Guacamole

2008-10-08T15:35:00.000-07:00

Another recipe we use from allrecipes.com

Ingredients

2 avocados

½ lemon, juiced

2 tablespoons chopped onion

½ teaspoon salt

2 tablespoons olive oil

Directions

Cut the avocados into halves. Remove the seeds, and scoop out the pulp into a small bowl.

Use a fork to mash the avocado. Stir in lemon juice, onion, salt, and olive oil.

Cover the bowl, and refrigerate for 1 hour before serving.

Homecoming

2008-10-08T13:25:00.000-07:00

We brought Jack home today. Here are a couple more pictures and dont forget to check the gallery for more.

Day 2

2008-10-07T15:04:00.000-07:00

Today was another big day for little Mr Baby Jack. He did some poopin, some eating and some sleepin. On top of all that he met his doctor who then proceeded to circumcise him. Not the best way to meet someone but I think he'll get over it. As promised here are a few more pictures and again more can be found in the gallery.

Day 1

2008-10-07T01:46:00.000-07:00

Everyone always says that their best day was the day that their child was born. I always accepted this, but now I feel it. Jack Henry DeVries was born yesterday at 3:08pm pacific standard time. We went to the hospital a little before 9 to have Jaime induced. By 12 she was 5 cm dilated and the doctor came and broke her water. Jaime hadn't been having much pain from the contractions yet but decided to ask for the epidural at that point. About half an hour later the anesthesiologist came and gave her the epidural. The was very happy about that because the previous few contractions really started to hurt. By 2:00 she was fully dilated and she started pushing around 2:30.

Jack is very healthy and weighs 7 pounds 9 ounces. He is 20½ inches long and has some dark hair on the top of his head. Here are some pictures (there are more in the gallery) from yesterday and Ill be posting more tonight or tomorrow from today.

39 weeks

2008-10-05T15:23:00.000-07:00

The last belly picture...how do I know? I am being induced at 9am tomorrow (Monday). So, by the time many of you see this post, Jack will be here! We are SO excited and just can't wait to meet him. Soon, we'll be posting baby Jack pictures instead of belly pictures!

38 weeks

2008-09-28T02:08:00.000-07:00

No news from the last appointment, no change. We're still just waiting! In the meantime, things keep marching along at work and I'm ready say "I'm done, going on leave now!" But, I'll wait. I'm still feeling pretty good, just exhausted. My doctor still thinks I won't make my due date, but I'm starting to wonder if I'll ever have this baby! They should just lie to me and tell me I'm not dilated at all, then I'd be fine. Thanks again for all the thoughts and prayers, we'll do our best to let you all know when it happens!

37 weeks

2008-09-23T14:15:00.000-07:00

A very full 37 weeks...today I'm actually just 38 weeks. We had an appointment on Friday at which they said I was 3-4 cm dilated and 80% effaced. I have another appointment tomorrow, of course they have no way of knowing if little Jack is coming sooner than expected. If there is any new news I'll try to update tomorrow! Thanks to everyone who's sent good thoughts and prayers!

36 weeks

2008-09-14T11:10:00.000-07:00

Getting close...we have doctor appointments every week now. On Friday I was 2-3 cm dilated...she said it could still be a couple weeks, but that I probably wouldn't make my due date, and that it could be any day. Just trying to make as many preparations as possible at home and at school now. We'll do our best to let everyone know if/when anything happens!

34 weeks

2008-09-03T13:37:00.000-07:00

It's a little late, but we've been having some internet problems. I had a lovely three day weekend and this week, so far, has been non-stop action. Things are not going to slow down anytime soon! I do have a sub and she's able to come in for a couple days to observe and get familiar with the kids and the school. It won't be long now!

Restaurant Style Artichoke & Spinach Dip

2008-08-31T11:48:00.000-07:00

A tasty dip found on All Recipes.

Ingredients

1 tsp garlic powder

1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained

1 (14 ounce) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped

1 (10 ounce) container Alfredo-style pasta sauce

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese

½ (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).

Chop spinach and artichoke hearts.

Mix all ingredients in a 8x8 inch baking pan.

Cover and bake in the preheated oven 30 minutes, or until cheeses are melted and bubbly. Serve warm.

33 weeks

2008-08-28T12:48:00.000-07:00

Peachy Ham

2008-08-23T13:31:00.000-07:00

Ingredients

Thick sliced ham

1 can sliced peaches

½ cup orange juice

½ cup Sprite

¼ cup lemon juice

1 shot Peach Tree peach schnapps

cornstarch

Directions

Brown ham

While ham is browning, mix oj, Sprite, lemon juice, schnapps and juice from peaches

Remove ham from pan, add juice mix, bring to boil, lower heat, add cornstarch to thicken

Return ham and add peaches, cook on low for 10 minutes

One Dish Chicken & Rice Bake

2008-08-23T13:07:00.000-07:00

Another delicious Campbell's Soup recipe.

Ingredients

1 can Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup

1 cup water

¾ cup uncooked regular long-grain white rice

¼ tsp. paprika

¼ tsp. ground black pepper

4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts

Directions

Mix soup, water, rice, paprika and black pepper in 2-qt. shallow baking dish.

Top with chicken. Season with additional paprika and pepper. Cover.

Bake at 375°F. 45 min. or until done.

We like to put the pepper and paprika right on the chicken while it bakes.

32 weeks

2008-08-17T10:27:00.000-07:00

Yes, I missed week 31...it's been busy. I started back at school with students last Monday. It was a very long week. Hopefully this year's group won't be as challenging. Things have gone well so far, except I have one little boy who cries when he has to draw or write or over anything that goes wrong, and one little (very little, like 3 feet tall) boy who just "can't take it" sometimes, like when his nose is running or his eyes are watering. After we get over those little bumps I think things will go smoothly.

Sweet & Tangy Pork BBQ

2008-08-10T04:49:00.000-07:00

This is one of Jaime's cousin Jenny's recipes from the family cook book.

Ingredients

1.5-2lbs pork steaks

1 cup BBQ sauce

2T brown sugar

1tsp soy sauce

1tsp Worcestershire sauce

½ tsp liquid smoke

1 big squeeze honey

1/3 cup chopped sweet onion

Directions

Mix BBQ sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, liquid smoke and honey. Stir well.

Place pork in crock pot and cover with onion.

Spoon BBQ mixture over pork and onions.

Cook on low for 6-8 hours or until pork is falling apart.

30 weeks

2008-08-10T02:40:00.000-07:00

Grandma Crane's Potato Salad

2008-08-08T09:44:00.000-07:00

Ingredients:

6 large potatoes, cooked, cooled and sliced

½ medium green pepper, diced

2 hard boiled eggs, sliced

1 small onion, diced

salt

pepper

½lb bacon

½ cup vinegar

½ cup water

½ cup sugar

Directions:

Mix potatoes, peppers, eggs and onion. Salt and pepper to taste.

Fry bacon, cut into pieces and add to potato mix.

Add sugar, water and vinegar to bacon grease. Cook until sugar dissolves. Mix in a little sugar to thicken if necessary.

Mix bacon grease mix into potato mix.

On A Horse with no Name

2008-08-04T14:51:00.000-07:00

We went through the desert, and came out at the majestic Pacific Ocean. Thanks to a wonderful birthday gift from my dad, Jaime and I were able to spend this weekend in San Diego. We spent the first night at the beach where I went swimming and we watched the sun set. Saturday we spent our time on the Old Town Trolley Tour. The tour gave us a beautiful view of the city and harbor. On Sunday we drove up the coast toward LA and then headed back into the desert. For more pictures check out the gallery.

As promised

2008-07-31T03:55:00.000-07:00

The crib and glider. The glider is soooo comfortable! Thanks to my mom and dad for their generous gift of the nursery furniture.

The dresser and changing table. Yes, Jack's room connects with the bathroom...lucky guy. Also a view into his closet. We put all his clothes (he has a lot!) in the dresser, that's why the closet looks so bare!

His awesome stroller. We actually liked this one before we registered for a different one at Babies R Us. The other one was a little pricier, but we liked that it had a matching pack n play and swing. In the end, we found horrible reviews about the swing and found a really cute Pooh pack n play (thank you to Dave's mom and Bruce) and decided it wasn't a big deal that they didn't match.

29 weeks

2008-07-31T03:23:00.000-07:00

27 weeks...the shower

2008-07-27T02:46:00.000-07:00

It's not exactly side profile, but it's a nice picture of me and my mom at the shower. I had an amazing time at the shower! Everything was beautiful and planned so perfectly! I loved seeing all the baby pictures of me and Dave. The food was delicious (although I definitely wanted seconds and thirds of those croissants!) and that cake! It was beautiful and so cute, not to mention very tasty. It was so nice to see my family and friends, as well as some new faces. I can't thank those involved enough! We've had so much fun setting up the nursery since I returned home here. I'll post pictures of it soon, I'm a little behind on the posts (I'll actually be 30 weeks on Tuesday). When I get a chance I'll add more pictures of the shower to the photo gallery.

Gulyás

2008-07-20T11:55:00.000-07:00

A Hungarian style goulash recipe that Dave came up with.

Ingredients

vegetable oil

2lbs pork or beef shank, shoulder or shin, cubed

salt

pepper

paprika

2tbsp butter

1 large onion, sliced

5 garlic cloves, pressed

2 red bell peppers, seeded and diced

1 red jalapeño pepper, diced

1 potato, pealed and finely sliced

2 cup water

1 beef bullion cube

1tsp thyme

1 bay leaf

Directions

In a large pot, brown meat in oil. Season with salt, pepper and paprika to taste.

Sauté onion, garlic, bell peppers and jalapeño pepper in butter.

Add potato, water and bullion cube to meat, bring to boil.

Stir in sautéed veggies and thyme.

Add bay leaf, cover and reduce heat to low for 2 hours.

26 weeks...a little late

2008-07-08T12:52:00.000-07:00

Many new things...

2008-06-29T13:33:00.000-07:00

Well, we've finally completed our move. While it was nice to have an entire month to move over our things at our leisure, it also feels really great to be done and have only one apartment. This morning we picked up our few remaining possessions and turned in our keys. We slept at our new place for the first time on June 19th and are now comfortably settled in. We were without cable or internet until about 2pm yesterday so we have some catching up to do!

One of the things keeping us busy this past week was receiving some of our nursery furniture. We had a whole crib fiasco, the minute details of which I will not go into. Let's just say after several long and confusing phone calls and trips to Babies 'R' Us by my mom and ourselves we ended up with exactly what we wanted in the first place! We now have both the dresser and the crib assembled and set up in Jack's room. It looks great, and I can't wait to get everything set up!

Here are some pictures:

24 Weeks

25 Weeks

The crib and dresser

Time to Move on

2008-06-16T10:38:00.000-07:00

Most of you know that were moving. Well the big move is taking place on Thursday and our new address is:

4202 E Cactus Rd #5201
Phoenix AZ, 85032

Our phone numbers and other contact info will be staying the same. If you dont have those just click on the "Contact Info" tab at the top for any information you could possibly need to get a hold of us.

Happy Father's Day

2008-06-15T13:55:00.000-07:00

Happy Father's Day to all you Dads out there! And especially to my awesome husband who will soon be an awesome Dad!

Skedoosh

2008-06-08T14:34:00.000-07:00

22 Weeks. They say the baby is going through a growth spurt. He certainly is moving around a lot. I'll try to be more diligent about posting pictures!

Pretzel Dip

2008-06-03T11:15:00.000-07:00

Ingredients

16oz cream cheese

2 cups (8oz) Sharp Cheddar, shredded

1 packet ranch dip mix

4tbsp beer

Directions

Mix all ingredients and serve with pretzels or crackers.

Back to reality...and triple digits

2008-05-30T00:56:00.000-07:00

Our trip to the mitten was short but sweet. We got to see lots of family, and we wish Staci and Taylor all the best! We got to see friends too. We were really going nonstop from about 2:00 a.m. Friday morning until 10:00 p.m. Sunday night. My two favorite things were shopping with my mom, and seeing my friends again. My mom took me shopping at maternity stores, which would have been intimidating by myself...we had a lot of fun! It was so nice to see my friends and everyone there had kids or was pregnant so it was all babies all night. It was so cool to listen to them all and see them as the wonderful moms they've all become.

On the Monday and Tuesday we were back here in Phoenix, the temps reached 110. Yuck! Then by Friday it was rainy, and the low was 55...half of the high from 3 days before! It was very strange. They're saying now that this weekend and next week will reach 100 and over.

We signed a lease on a new place with two bedrooms...can't wait to start setting up the baby's room! We had another doctor's appointment on Wednesday, nothing new to report. I have started feeling him move though! That was very exciting, and he seems to be very active!

School's out...thank goodness! What a year! I can honestly say I will miss some of them, but I did not shed a tear when they all left on Wednesday. It was a relief to get this year over with. Hopefully next year will be easier...even if it's not, I won't be there for part of the year! I am teaching summer school again this year. I start on Monday and it lasts 4 weeks. Only half days and I get Fridays off. Man, this summer will go fast!

It's...

2008-05-12T13:17:00.000-07:00

A boy! We're having a boy! Enjoy the pictures!

It's official

2008-05-08T13:03:00.000-07:00

On Monday, we're going back to the doctor for a second ultrasound. If all goes well, we could find out if we're having a boy or girl! Here's a picture at 18 weeks.

Don't know if I mentioned this or not...we traded in our truck for a new jeep. We decided we needed a more family type vehicle. I love it! I've never had my own new car before! I love driving it everyday. Hopefully it'll work better for our now growing family!

Baked Chicken Parmesan

2008-05-07T11:27:00.000-07:00

A tasty baked chicken recipe from Jaime's mom. Shown with Grandma's Disappearing Rolls.

Ingredients

4tbsp margarine

4 chicken breasts, boneless

¼ tsp paprika

1 tbsp parley flakes

1/8 tsp thyme

¼ tsp garlic powder

¼ cup Parmesan cheese

1/3 cup bread crumbs

Directions

Melt margarine over low heat.

Mix all spices, cheese and bread crumbs.

Carefully dip chicken in melted margarine and then into spice mix, coating completely.

Bake on greased baking pan at 350° for 45-50 min or until chicken is cooked through.

Tip: Mix spices in a large bowl that has a lid and then place buttered chicken in, cover and shake until coated

Chicken Noodle Soup

2008-05-07T02:49:00.000-07:00

Ingredients

8 cups water

6 chicken bullion cubes

2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed

1tsp pepper

3 carrots, peeled and sliced

3 stalks celery, sliced

½ onion, diced

8oz egg noodles

Directions

Bring water and bullion cubes to boil.

Add chicken, pepper, carrots, celery and onion and cook on high for 20 minutes.

Add noodles and cook until noodles are al dente.

American Goulash

2008-05-03T13:23:00.000-07:00

Ingredients

1tbsp butter

1 green bell pepper, seeded and diced

½ onion, diced

1lb ground beef or sausage

2 cans diced tomatoes

1 can tomato sauce

1 can tomato paste

16oz cooked elbow macaroni

Directions

In large sauce pan, sauté onion and pepper in butter.

Add beef, brown and drain.

Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce and tomato paste. Heat through.

Stir in cooked elbows and serve.

Chicken & Stuffing Skillet

2008-04-29T13:21:00.000-07:00

Another simple, delicious soup can recipe from Campbell's.

Ingredients:

1 tbsp. butter OR margarine

4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts

1 6oz box chicken stuffing mix

1 can condensed cream of chicken soup

½ cup milk

½ cup shredded Cheddar cheese

Directions:

Heat butter in skillet. Add chicken and cook 12 to 15 min. or until done. Remove chicken.

Prepare stuffing in skillet according to pkg. directions except let stand 2 min.

Top with chicken. Mix soup and milk. Pour over chicken. Sprinkle with cheese. Cover and heat through.

TIP: *Delicious with cream of celery or cream of mushroom soup.

Belly Watch

2008-04-28T12:38:00.000-07:00

Hello all! We had another doctor's appointment today. It wasn't very eventful, but it was important to me to hear that little heartbeat again! It hasn't seemed like much is happening lately so hearing that heartbeat gave me the satisfaction of feeling that I am in fact pregnant. We also made an appointment to go back in only 2 weeks to find out the sex of the baby! The doctor said we could do it early or we could do it at our next 4 week appointment...I can't wait! Also I've had a couple of inquiries about pictures. I haven't felt like I'm showing yet but, we'll start a little "belly watch" here. I'll try to post a picture weekly!

Grandma's Disappearing Rolls

2008-04-20T02:00:00.000-07:00

Ingredients

4 tubes of biscuits (10 biscuit packs)

¾ cup margarine

1 tsp seasoned salt

½ tsp garlic powder

1 tsp dill weed

Directions

Melt butter on low and mix in seasoning.

Cut biscuts in half pinch to form crescent shape and place on baking sheet.

Brush butter mixture on rolls and bake for 15 minutes or until tops are brown at 350 degrees.

Lasagna

2008-04-10T12:52:00.000-07:00

Super easy no boil lasagna from Jaime's cousin Jenny.

Ingredients

2 (26oz) jars pasta sauce

1pkg lasagna noodles

15oz ricotta cheese

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 eggs

1lb Italian sausage, cooked and drained

3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

In medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, parmesan cheese and eggs.

In 9x13 pan, spread 1 cup pasta sauce.

Layer with uncooked lasagna noodles, covering the bottom of pan. Spread half of the ricotta cheese mixture, half sausage, 1 cup mozzarella cheese and 1/3 of remaining sauce. Repeat.

Form 3rd layer of noodles cover with remaining sauce and cheese.

Cover tightly with aluminum foil.

Bake covered for 1 hour.

Remove foil and bake 10 minutes.

Beef Stroganoff

2008-04-07T13:22:00.000-07:00

As easy as hamburger helper but ten times tastier, this stroganoff is one of Jaime's cousin Jenny's recipes.

Ingredients

1½lbs ground beef

1 can cream of mushroom soup

½ cup water

1 envelope onion soup mix

½ cup sour cream

4 oz can mushrooms

hot cooked noodles

Directions

In large skillet, brown ground beef, drain.

Stir in soup, water and onion soup mix. Reduce heat, cover and simmer for 20 minutes.

Stir in sour cream and mushrooms then heat through. Serve over hot noodles.

Dried Beef Dip

2008-04-06T05:59:00.000-07:00

When we lived in Michigan we would get beef dip from D&W's deli. Well none of the stores here have it so Jaime emailed D&W in hopes of getting the recipe. They were kind enough to send her the ingredients list. After a couple tries, this is our best guess at the quantities of this delicious dip.

Ingredients

5oz dried beef

16oz cream cheese

16oz sour cream

2Tbs mayo

6 green onions

Directions

Rinse, dry and cut into small pieces dried beef. (This washes all the extra salt off the beef.)

Chop green onions.

Mix all ingredients.

Tiny heartbeat

2008-04-05T01:55:00.000-07:00

Whew...I've been exhausted lately! Sorry for the lack of an update. Our second doctor's appt. went really well. It was very short, and we got to hear the heartbeat! It was exciting and sounded like a little horse galloping. The doctor said everything was normal and answered our questions. In about 3 weeks we go back again, and 4 weeks after that we get to find out whether we're having a boy or a girl! In other news, we are coming to GR for my cousin Staci's wedding May 16 through 18. Can't wait to see everyone, and we're so excited for Staci!

Pot Roast

2008-03-22T10:48:00.000-07:00

Ingredients

2lbs stew meat

1 can condensed cream of mushroom soup

2 medium russet potatoes pealed and cubed

1 pound carrots, pealed and chopped

½ onion diced

Directions

In large Crockpot heat all ingredients on low for 6 hours or until meat falls apart and veggies are soft

Cranberry Chicken

2008-03-19T11:04:00.000-07:00

A favorite from Jaime's mom, this sweet chicken recipe may sound a little strange but will not disappoint.

Ingredients

1 can whole berry cranberry sauce

1 pkg Lipton onion-mushroom soup

½ bottle of Catalina dressing

4-6 boneless chicken breasts

Directions

Mix cranberries, soup and dressing

Place chicken in baking dish and cover with mixture.

Cover with foil (or oven safe cover) and bake for 1 hour or until chicken is done at 350 degrees.

Spring Break and 2nd Dr.'s appt.

2008-03-19T10:14:00.000-07:00

I'm so happy it's spring break! Finally a chance to rest and really take care of myself. I can eat how I need to and sleep when I need to...this is the life! You could definitely convince me to job share or to go year round. These breaks are so necessary, and they always seem to come just in time. I think I'll be refreshed enough when I come back to make it through the last, long, full two months. People asked me if I was going anywhere for spring break...why? People come here for spring break. The weather is pretty much perfect right now, cool in the morning and at night, warm enough during the day for summer clothes and swimming. We took a hike today and saw many people on vacation. This time we conquered Squaw Peak and it was pretty spectacular. Wildflowers were in bloom and we saw several lizards soaking up the sun.

Next week Friday we have our second Dr.'s appointment. This time we see the actual doctor. It probably won't be as exciting as the first, no ultrasound this time. Of course, if there is any news we'll keep you updated!

Grandma's Spaghetti

2008-03-16T11:19:00.000-07:00

A delicious spin on macaroni and cheese recipe from Ruth Hamacher taken from the the family cook book.

Ingredients

2 cups uncooked macaroni

2 cans diced tomatoes

¾ cup sugar

1 lb sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

6tbsp margarine

1 medium onion, chopped

salt to taste

Directions

Preheat oven to 325 degrees.

Cook and drain macaroni.

Mix remaining ingredients and bake in 3qt casserole dish for 1½ hours.

Chicken Quesadillas

2008-03-11T13:31:00.000-07:00

Super easy quesadillas based on this soup can recipe.

Ingredients

2 skinless, boneless chicken breast, cubed

1 can Condensed Cheddar Cheese Soup

1 cup salsa

10 flour tortillas (8-inch)

Directions

Preheat oven to 425°F

Cook chicken in nonstick skillet until done and juices evaporate, stirring often. Add soup and salsa and heat through.

Spread soup mixture on half of each tortilla to within 1/2" of edge. Moisten edge with water. Fold over and seal. Place on 2 baking sheets.

Bake 5 min. or until hot.

Tomato Pesto Pasta

2008-03-05T10:48:00.000-08:00

A delicious Italian pasta dish found on All Recipes.

Ingredients

3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

2 cloves garlic, peeled and chopped

1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, drained

14 ounces fusili (spiral) pasta

salt and pepper to taste

3 tablespoons pesto

3 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese

3 tablespoons fresh basil leaves for garnish

Directions

Heat oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Saute garlic for 2 minutes, then add tomatoes and simmer for 10 minutes.

Meanwhile, bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until al dente; drain and return to pot.

Season tomato sauce with salt and pepper; stir in pesto. Pour sauce over hot cooked pasta and mix well. Sprinkle with cheese, garnish with basil leaves and serve immediately.

Lemon Broccoli Chicken

2008-03-04T10:52:00.000-08:00

Pictured with wild rice and steamed carrots. This recipe is based on a recipe from All Recipes.

Ingredients

2 tbsp lemon juice

1 tbsp vegetable oil

4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts

1 can (10 3/4 oz.) Condensed Cream of Broccoli Soup

½ cup milk

ground black pepper to taste

Directions

Heat oil in skillet. Add chicken and cook until browned.

Mix soup, milk, and lemon juice and add to chicken. Top chicken with pepper. Heat to a boil. Cover and cook over low heat 5 minutes or until done.

Big Announcement!

2008-03-04T10:04:00.000-08:00

By now most of you have already heard our wonderful news! But if you haven't, let me be the first to tell you...we're pregnant! We're very excited and have tried to let those closest to us know. Thank you by the way for all the congratulations, and well-wishes, and wonderful advice! It means so much to us to have a caring and supportive group of friends and family to share this with. Being far away from most of you, we're so glad we're able to keep in touch! As you may have guessed, this does change our plans slightly. We had planned to move to Colorado after this school year was over. As we started thinking about our situation and talking finances and feasibility, we decided it would be best to stay put for another year. Then, once the baby is born and I finish next school year, we'll be better able to make a move. In addition, I will have completed my district's three-year teacher induction program and converted my provisional certificate into a standard one, making it easier to get licensed in another state.

We went to the doctor last week for my first visit...it was a long four week wait from the time we found out! We got our first picture and were told the heartbeat was 162 beats per minute. It was exciting to see the little flutter on the screen! We could not hear it yet. We'll go back in 3 weeks to meet for the first time with our doctor, and of course we'll keep you updated!

Check back often for more updates and pictures! Remember, to leave a comment, click on the word "comments" at the end of the post. Type your name, a working email address, and your message and click "submit comment". The first time you comment, your email address will need to be approved (to prevent spam). Your comment will show up as soon as Dave or I approve it. After that, use the same email address, and your comment should appear immediately.

3 Down, 4 to Go

2008-02-19T07:04:00.000-08:00

In the weeks since we last posted a lot has happened. Jaime had conferences, which, for the most part went well from what I understand. The dogs received a good bill of health from the vet. Eli Manning ruined professional football. We climbed North Mountain, another of the "Seven Summits" of Phoenix. Business has been slow at Sears. Its that time of year though. People have to pay for all the xmas gifts they gave, then they will be able to get their cars fixed again. Things should start picking up when the refund checks start showing up.

Since the launch of the site much has been added. Many new pictures are viewable in the gallery. Most notable of which are the pictures from our trip to the Grand Canyon. We have also added a cookbook section. This area contains all (not all all but all that we've had time to put up) of our favorite recipes. We plan to keep adding pictures and recipes so come back often.

Down Home Macaroni and Cheese

2008-02-19T05:15:00.000-08:00

Once heralded as "Dave's Famous Macaroni" this recipe is not an original, it came from All Recipes.

Ingredients

¼ cup butter or margarine, divided

¼ cup flour

1 tsp salt

2 cups milk

¼ pound Velveeta, cut up

2 cups shredded Cheddar, divided

2 cups elbow macaroni, cooked, drained

2 tablespoons seasoned dry bread crumbs

Directions

Melt 3 tablespoons of the butter in large saucepan on low heat. Blend in flour and salt; cook and stir 1 minute. Gradually add milk; cook, stirring constantly, until thickened. Add prepared cheese product and 1-1/2 cups of the shredded cheese; stir until melted. Stir in macaroni.

Pour into lightly greased 1-1/2-quart casserole. Melt remaining 1 Tablespoon butter; toss with bread crumbs. Sprinkle casserole with remaining 1/2 cup cheese and bread crumb mixture.

Bake at 350 degrees F for 20 minutes or until thoroughly heated.

Curry Chicken Sandwich

2008-02-19T04:11:00.000-08:00

A southern style chicken sandwich Dave came up with. This recipe makes 2 sandwiches.

Ingredients

1 tbsp vegetable oil

1/4 cup diced onion

1 boneless skinless chicken breast, sliced

curry

chili powder

4 slices bread

Colby Jack cheese, sliced

ranch dressing

lettuce

tomato, sliced

Directions

In frying pan sauté onion in oil until translucent.

Add chicken and brown one side. Flip and season with curry and chili powder.

Toast bread and assemble sandwich. (We assemble it bread, chicken, cheese, tomato, lettuce, bread with the ranch spread on the top piece of bread.)

Holiday Sugar Cookies

2008-02-12T10:04:00.000-08:00

This recipe came from Dave's Grandma Larson and is a Larson family Christmas tradition.

Ingredients

3/4 cup shortening

1/4 cup butter

1 cup powdered sugar

2 tsp vanilla

1 1/4 cup flour

1/2 tsp salt

1 cup rolled oats

colored sugar

Directions

Mix together shortening, butter, powdered sugar and vanilla.

Add flour, salt and rolled oats.

Shape into two rolls. Roll rolls in colored sugar. Chill for 2 hours.

Slice 1/4 inch think and bake at 350 for 15 minutes or until they are done.

Oma's Soup

2008-02-12T09:56:00.000-08:00

This is an old favorite from Dave's Grandma DeVries.

Ingredients

2 packages of Lipton Noodle Soup

1 package of Knorr Vegetable Recipe Mix

1 lb ground beef

1 tbsp nutmeg

10-15 saltines, crushed

2 eggs, beaten

Directions

Prepare noodle soup according to package. (Take out one of yellow salt mixes if you want to live.)

Add dry vegetable soup and reduce heat to low.

Combine crushed saltines, eggs, nutmeg, and ground beef and form into 3/4 inch meatballs.

Add meatballs to soup and cook on low for about 30 minutes.

Souperior Meat Loaf

2008-02-12T09:39:00.000-08:00

This one can be found on the back of a box of Lipton Recipe Secrets Onion Soup Mix

Ingredients

2 pounds ground beef

1 envelope Lipton Recipe Secrets Onion Soup Mix

5 slices of bread, cubed

2 eggs

3/4 cup water

1/3 cup ketchup

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

In large bowl, combine all ingredients.

Place in loaf pan.

Bake for 1 hour or until done. Let stand for 10 minutes.

Fiesta Rice

2008-02-12T08:02:00.000-08:00

Changed slightly from the Campbells cheddar soup can recipe, this rice goes great with any Mexican food.

Ingredients

1 cup salsa

1 cup water

1 chicken bouillon cube

2 cups Minute Rice

Directions

Bring salsa, water and bouillon to a boil

Stir in rice, cover, remove from heat and let sit 5 minutes.

Fruit Pizza

2008-02-12T07:54:00.000-08:00

There isnt ever a slice of this delicious dessert left no matter how big the gathering. This tasty treat was found on All Recipes. We like to top it with fresh strawberries, grapes and kiwi.

Ingredients

18 ounce package refrigerated sugar cookie dough

7 oz jar marshmallow cream

8 oz package cream cheese, softened

Sliced fruit

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F

On an ungreased medium baking sheet, smooth the refrigerated sugar cookie dough into a single layer approximately ¼ inch thick.

Bake for 10 minutes, or until edges are lightly browned and center is no longer doughy.

In a medium bowl, blend the marshmallow cream and cream cheese.

Spread the mixture over the baked crust

Cover with sliced fruit and chill in refrigerator.

Banana Bread

2008-02-12T07:50:00.000-08:00

This recipe came from Dave's Grandma Larson.

Ingredients

2 Eggs

½ Cup Shortening

2/3 Cup Sugar

3 Bananas

½ tsp Baking Soda

2 tsp Baking Powder

½ tsp Salt

1 ¾ Cups Flour

Directions

Mix all ingredients together and pour into greased loaf pans

Bake 45 minutes to 1 hour at 350 degrees

Homemade Chili

2008-02-12T07:38:00.000-08:00

After many, many, many tries, this is Dave's final recipe for his homemade chili.

Ingredients

2 tbsp butter

2 garlic cloves, pressed

1 large onion, chopped

2 lbs ground beef

2 cans stewed tomatoes, Italian recipe

1 can tomato paste

4 oz can diced green chilies

2 bell peppers, seeded and chopped

1 tbsp chili powder

1/2 cup red wine

Directions

In a large skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic and onion until onion is translucent. Add ground beef and cook until brown. Drain.

In a large pot or crock pot mix all ingredients and cook on low to medium low for 2 hours.

Dog Food Dip

2008-02-12T07:24:00.000-08:00

A Super Bowl favorite, Dog Food Dip will satisfy any tortilla chip dipping fan.

Ingredients

1 1/2 lbs ground beef

1 can Manwich

1 pound Mexican Velveeta cheese

1 can refried beans

8 oz diced green chilies

hot sauce to taste

Directions

Brown and drain ground beef.

Mix all ingredients and cook on low heat until heated through.

Welcome to thedevrieses.com

2008-01-29T22:39:00.000-08:00

After many many months of talking about it and trying to figure out the best way to do it and blah blah blah blah, Ive finally gotten off my butt and put this here website together. This site will be used in place of our Blogger blog. Having an entire domain allows us to do much more. We have a photo gallery and over the next few months we will be adding many old pictures and any new pictures to it. Anyone is able to post comments here on the journal as well as on the photo gallery. Your first comment will need to be approved, but after that, as long as you use the same email address, the comments should appear right away. Please come by often and comment as much as you like. It is always nice to hear from everyone.

Shadow Mountain

2008-01-26T09:12:00.000-08:00

This is a picture from a recent hike we took with the dogs. Shadow Mountain is practically in our back yard. It was a nice hike, moderately difficult because of some pretty steep areas. We liked it because it's less recreational than other mountain preserves. We could let the dogs off the leashes and be more free to climb. Last weekend we went to Lookout Mountain, and tomorrow we'd like to go to North Mountain as long as it's not raining. Yes, every once in a while it does rain here in the Valley of the Sun. Apparently there is a storm on its way and we have a forecasted 100% chance of rain.

Ramblin'

2008-01-18T12:42:00.000-08:00

Our trip was a success, my last week off was nice, but short, and now we're back in the swing of things. It's strange, all that time off and I hardly thought about my classroom, it seemed like a world away. Now it's like I never left...waiting for the next break I guess. The next break just so happens to be this weekend! I get Monday off for a nice 3 day weekend.

I have a pretty tough class this year and it's not easy to get up and go in every day. I don't dread going and when I think of all I've done to get here I get my lazy butt out of bed and am thankful for the job. Many days, like today, things go pretty well and I love my job. There are also days when I wonder why I ever became a teacher. It's a difficult and often times thankless job. Kids are kids and even though they still like school (mostly) at this age, they don't thank you for being their teacher. It's awesome when I get to play around a little with them and they totally get what's going on...there are the thanks I guess. Anyway...that kind of explains why my updates are few and far between. I come home exhausted and have a million things I want to get done.

We have decided that when our lease is up in June, we'll be moving to Colorado. This may surprise some of you, but it's what we've wanted for a while now. If I would have been able to find a job there in the first place it would have been nice. It's beautiful out here and it's a great detour. I've gotten to do so many things I never thought I'd do and have more in mind before we leave. Leaving the white of Michigan to return to the heat of Phoenix really opened our eyes I suppose. I miss the change of seasons and of course the snow. Honestly, I can't stand the summer here either. I know it's only been one summer, but I don't need the experience of a second! We want to settle down and buy a house and find a place we'll love and it feels like we're wasting time here because we know we won't stay. We have no set plans yet as far as where we'll live...I'm watching job postings and working toward getting my Colorado teaching license. We'll keep you updated as soon as we know things for ourselves!

Happy New Year!

2008-01-01T04:47:00.000-08:00

A new year...five years ago, did I ever think I'd be here now? Honestly, no. But, here we are and life goes on. We had a wonderful visit home, although we didn't get to see several people that we wanted to. It was awesome to be home for Christmas and to see so much snow! It felt like we never left, then of course we did have to leave. It was harder for me to leave this time than when we moved in the first place. And let me tell ya...coming down from Flagstaff into blue sky and 60 degree weather was not as comforting as you might think. If it only gets warmer from here I don't think I'll make it!

It is good to be home, although very quiet! Dave's already been back to work, and I'm thankful I have a few more days. Time to clean, relax, read, and get mentally prepared to jump back in head first. Truthfully, I'll be glad when this school year is over, it hasn't been easy and I don't think it will get easier. That's okay though...I'm learning valuable lessons about what to do and what not to do in the future! Here's to a less stressful 2008...one can hope!

Holiday Plans

2007-11-11T01:55:00.000-08:00

Well, I think we've got our trip back all planned out (mostly). Dan will be coming with us and we'll leave Friday evening. We'll arrive in Kalamazoo late Saturday night and stay there with Dave's family. Then we'll Christmas it up for the next 3 days while making our way north to Grand Rapids. Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday will be for catching up with friends, going on Meijer's visits, touring our old haunts, and other miscellaneous things like sledding (hopefully)! It's coming so fast, I can hardly believe it. So many things have changed and I'm interested to see how it will feel to be back in GR.

For Thanksgiving we'll be going to Tuscon for the day. Mmmmm...actual real Turkey this year! I can't wait for that either...maybe this year I'll go shopping the next day...by myself (cue sad, pathetic music). I wonder if IKEA has Black Friday sales?? If so, I think I'll be there!