Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Wohoo!! I just booked our flights for Bevan and I to go back to my home state of Kansas! I can't wait.
Recipe of the Week
Saturday, May 24, 2008
Sorry! It's been a few weeks since my last recipe.
I am a HUGE fan of Johnny Carino's...and I've learned that a lot of their food can be re-created at home. So here is one that I figured out...hope you all will like it.
Spicy Romano Chicken- (Jessica's way):
Ingredients
* 2 tablespoons butter
* 2 boneless skinless chicken breast (cooked, thinly sliced)
* 1/2 cup sliced mushroom
* 1/4 cup diced green onion
* 1/8 cup sliced sun-dried tomato
* alfredo sauce (made from your favorite recipe or from a jar)
* 1/4 cup grated romano cheese
* 1 (12 ounce) can artichoke heart, drained and chopped
* cayenne pepper
* bow tie pasta, cooked ( I think I used one box, which I got from Wal-Mart.)
Directions:
1.In pan melt butter, saute chicken, mushrooms, green onions, and sudried tomatoes until hot.
2. Add Alfredo sauce and ROmano cheese. Simmer.
3. Add cayenne pepper to taste. Serve over bowtie pasta. ENJOY!
Wild Hair
Sunday, May 18, 2008
Today while doing my weekly Sunday ritual of lying around and wasting my day, a thought occurred to me. I thought, 'Maybe I should do something productive today.' Instead of vacuuming, cleaning the kitchen, doing laundry, etc, I decided I was going to try and liven up one of our bathrooms. First I wanted to find something for wall decor, and thats when I remembered that buried deep under all the piles of crap I have in the trunk of my car was a bag of goodies I had bought at the D.I a couple days earlier. I remembered that I had bought two bright neon blue and purple frames that were hideous( I really wish I would have taken a before picture). I bought them with the intention of re-doing them, and since they only cost $1...I figured, why not? So instead of watching t.v all day, I watched t.v and painted. And this is what I came up with:
After completing the frame, I then went to Target to see if I could find anything else to spruce up the bathroom.
I found the iron "Dream" for $5 and the stand for $40. Overall, I really liked how it turned out.
Now all I need to do is paint the bathroom, but I figured I had better run it by Bevan first.
♥
JLB
The Movie
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
I saw this, and got SOOOO excited. You can call me a nerd, I DON'T CARE!! :)
Official Twilight the Movie trailer in HD
..
p.s- I have watched this several times, and at the end it almost looks like he's flying. Do you guys see that? I'm thinking maybe they cut it off before he hits the ground and starts running at the speed of light...but if they make it so he flies, I think I'll be walking out of the theater at that point. I really really really hope they do not deviate from the book.
Bevan's Graduation
On Saturday, Bevan graduated from the Law Enforcement Academy at Idaho State University.
Now I know that I have totally gotten fat, but my gosh...the poofy skirt and sweater made me look HUGE! I couldn't beleive it. So I guess the moral is: Yes, I've become fat. But No, I'm not that fat as the picture makes me seem.
This is Bevan giving his speech. He was actually President of his class. His speech was really well written. If you know Bevan, you know he is incredibly, incredibly smart...and it came across in his speech. I made him give me a copy of it so I could scrapbook it.
Here is an excerpt..
We gather at the culmination of great crossroads, many of us will be moving up and out, forging paths, and making new lives; some here, others far away. It is impossible to tell where we will all end up, sufficed to say at least one of us will be somewhere they never dreamed possible as we sit here today. We have all embarked upon a unique way of life by attending this academy. As has been said before, "law enforcement is not for everyone." Undoubtedly , some of us will not stay with this profession forever, but neither will anyone be unchanged by the pursuance of this venture.
To Bevan's right, (our left) is his good friend Will.
This is Bevan and his mom. Her and I rode down together to the ceremony basically so we could gossip and talk about scrap booking.
♥
JLB
Diary
Monday, May 12, 2008
I thought this was so funny! A girl I know posted this on myspace,and I stole it.
Diary of a Dog - Diary of a Cat
EXCERPTS FROM A DOG'S DIARY
Day number 180
8:00 am - OH BOY! DOG FOOD! MY FAVORITE!
9:30 am - OH BOY! A CAR RIDE! MY FAVORITE!
9:40 am - OH BOY! A WALK! MY FAVORITE!
10:30 am - OH BOY! A CAR RIDE! MY FAVORITE!
11:30 am - OH BOY! DOG FOOD! MY FAVORITE!
12:00 noon - OH BOY! THE KIDS! MY FAVORITE!
1:00 pm - OH BOY! THE YARD! MY FAVORITE!
4:00 pm - OH BOY! THE KIDS! MY FAVORITE!
5:00 PM - OH BOY! DOG FOOD! MY FAVORITE!
5:30 PM - OH BOY! MOM! MY FAVORITE!
Day number 181
8:00 am - OH BOY! DOG FOOD! MY FAVORITE!
9:30 am - OH BOY! A CAR RIDE! MY FAVORITE!
9:40 am - OH BOY! A WALK! MY FAVORITE!
10:30 am - OH BOY! A CAR RIDE! MY FAVORITE!
11:30 am - OH BOY! DOG FOOD! MY FAVORITE!
12:00 noon - OH BOY! THE KIDS! MY FAVORITE!
1:00 pm - OH BOY! THE YARD! MY FAVORITE!
4:00 pm - OH BOY! THE KIDS! MY FAVORITE!
5:00 PM - OH BOY! DOG FOOD! MY FAVORITE!
5:30 PM - OH BOY! MOM! MY FAVORITE!
Day number 182
8:00 am - OH BOY! DOG FOOD! MY FAVORITE!
9:30 am - OH BOY! A CAR RIDE! MY FAVORITE!
9:40 am - OH BOY! A WALK! MY FAVORITE!
EXCERPTS FROM A CAT'S DIARY
DAY 752 - My captors continue to taunt me with bizarre little dangling objects. They dine lavishly on fresh meat, while I am forced to eat dry cereal. The only thing that keeps me going is the hope of escape, and the mild satisfaction I get from ruining the occasional piece of furniture. Tomorrow I may eat another houseplant.
DAY 761 - Today my attempt to kill my captors by weaving around their feet while they were walking almost succeeded, must try this at the top of the stairs. In an attempt to disgust and repulse these vile oppressors, I once again induced myself to vomit on their favorite chair ... must try this on their bed.
DAY 765 - Decapitated a mouse and brought them the headless body, in attempt to make them aware of what I am capable of, and to try to strike fear into their hearts. They only cooed and condescended about what a good little cat I was...Hmmm. Not working according to plan.
DAY 768 - I am finally aware of how sadistic they are. For no good reason I was chosen for the water torture. This time however it included a burning foamy chemical called "shampoo." What sick minds could invent such a liquid. My only consolation is the piece of thumb still stuck between my teeth.
DAY 771 - There was some sort of gathering of their accomplices. I was placed in solitary throughout the event. However, I could hear the noise and smell the foul odor of the glass tubes they call "beer". More importantly I overheard that my confinement was due to MY power of "allergies." Must learn what this is and how to use it to my advantage.
DAY 774 - I am convinced the other captives are flunkies and maybe snitches. The dog is routinely released and seems more than happy to return. He is obviously a half-wit. The bird on the other hand has got to be an informant, and speaks with them regularly. I am certain he reports my every move. Due to his current placement in the metal room his safety is assured. But I can wait, it is only a matter of time...
Happy Mother's Day!!
Sunday, May 11, 2008
Let me first say that to all you mom's out there: HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY! I can't think of a more difficult, or rewarding job than being a mother.
Now, there are FOUR mom's out there I would like to give a shout out to!
First let me start by saying that I was lucky enough to grow up with TWO mom's. My parents divorced when I was a wee baby, and my dad re-married when I was about 2 years old. Both mom's have been a source of inspiration, and I would not be who I am today without either of them.
My mom, April
Although we only lived with herduring the summers, and holidays, she always made sure we had the best time. She is one of the most giving and charitable person I have ever met. Her and I have always been close, and I can only think of ONE time we ever got into a fight, out of 24 years. She is literally one of my best friends, I know I can call her at any time, with any problem, and she will always help. We gossip on the phone, talk about t.v shows, and just be silly! She really is amazing, and I love her so very very much.
I love you mom!! And I can't wait to see you in about a month!
My Mom, Joanna:
Where to begin...?
I can not think of one other person who has been through more hell than her, yet she hardly ever shows it. If I had to choose one person who had the most impact on my life, it would be her. She is one of the smartest, strongest, and one of the most driven woman I have ever met. Although she had a lot of rules, and disciplines with us growing up, it's those rules that have molded me into the person I am today, and I am eternally grateful. She is also one of my best friends, and I can always count on her to tell me the truth.
I love you SO very much Mom, and thank you for all that you have done! I really hope you get everything you want out of life.
Now that I am married, I must say I have one of the best mother in laws in the world!
She is the one who got me into crafts, and brought out the more "girl-y" side of me.
She is so giving, and likes to help any one at any time. She is also very true to herself, which I love. She doesn't take any B.S from anyone, and you ALWAYS know where you stand with her. I can talk to her about almost anything, and she really is a great mom to follow once we have children of our own.
I love you, Galene!
My Grandma Cheley:
She is the best grandma I know!! She has been through a lot in her life, but I have never seen her in a bad mood! She has the BEST memory, and can tell you story, or any history from our family. I'm pretty sure my natural talent, and love of cooking comes from her! I know that I can turn to her for anything...and I can't wait to see her also!
I love you grandma!!
I hope all you other mother's out there had a great day!!
-Jessica
7 Unknown Facts About Me
1. I have a very strange obsession with 
. I have loved them ever since I was about 8 years old, and still to this day I listen to them.
2. I am the second eldest of six children when it comes to my dad, and the baby of the family when it comes to my mom.
3. I am pretty sure I had an eating disorder when I was in the 9th grade. It wasn't because I thought I was fat, or because I wanted to punish myself, I think it was mainly because of stress. I had just moved to my mom's house, and I had never really lived away from my dad before. I was also dating a boy who wasn't very nice to me, and I was involved in a lot of sports, which I had also never really done before. I think I ate maybe two full meals in about 3 months. I remember my skin looked weird (like a really light yellow), and my hair would fall out every time I touched it. Which is why now I force myself to eat when I'm not hungry...which is now to my detriment!
4. I am extremely messy, hence the nick name 'messy bess.' I love to drag stuff out, but I hate putting it away. It will stay out for 2-3 days before I get sick of tripping over it, and then I will put it away.
5.I absolutely hate any type of insect, but I especially hate grass hoppers. I think they are one of the creepiest things alive, especially when they jump on your legs, and won't let go...ugghh.
6.I love reality t.v- even though it's once of the most mindless things EVER.
7. Growing up I dead set against getting married or having babies. I was never really one of those girls who dreamed of a white wedding, and having lots of kids. I always wanted to go to college, make money, be successful, and live on my own forever!
I Tag: whoever wants to do it.
♥
JLB
Two Recipes of the Week!
Sunday, May 4, 2008
Ok, I really am supposed to be studying for finals right now, but I just had to post these two recipes I made last night. They were soooo dang good.
Before I even start this whole thing, I have to put a couple disclaimer's on this.
1. Most of my recipes come from www.recipezaar.com ( unless other wise stated), which is an amazing recipe website. I will give credit where credit is due to the people of which I am using their recipe!
2. I hardly EVER follow a recipe exactly. I have gotten very comfortable with replacing ingredients, adding ingredients, etc. So I will post the recipe as is, and then tell you what I did to make it different, so you can make the recipe based on YOUR personal preference. If your not comfortable experimenting, there is nothing wrong with following the recipe as stated.
The recipes of the week for this week are:
Slow cooked Sweet & Savory Ribs with Sensational Potato Salad:
Sensational Potato Salad ( courtesy of ratherbeswimmin')
INGREDIENTS:
4 lbs red potato
1 teaspoon salt, divided
3 green onion, sliced
1 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
1 tablespoon prepared mustard
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/2 teaspoon celery seed
DIRECTIONS:
1.Cook potatoes in boiling water to cover 40 minutes or until tender; drain and cool.
Peel potatoes and cut into 1 inch pieces. ( Or you can peel first, and then boil. That's what I would recommend so then the skin doesn't get stuck in your peeler.)
2.In a large bowl, stir together potato, 1/2 t. salt and green onions.
3.Add in remaining 1/2 t. salt, mayo, pickle relish, mustard, pepper, and celery seed; stirring until well blended.Adjust seasoning to taste with salt and pepper.
4.Cover and chill 2 hours (it is even better if you can chill this overnight and serve the next day).
MY Adjustments:
** I didn't have any celery seed, so I thinly sliced two celery ribs.
** I also didn't have any relish, so I cut up two dill pickle spears. I also added more mustard than what the recipe called for because Bevan doesn't like things too mayonaisy.
** I also added some dill weed. You have to very careful with dill because its very, very strong...so just add to your taste.
Slow Cooked Sweet & Savory Ribs:
Courtesy of Ratherbeswimmin'
Ingredients
1 large onion, sliced and separated into rings
2 1/2-3 lbs country-style boneless pork ribs
1 (18 ounce) bottle honey barbecue sauce
1/3 cup maple syrup
1/4 cup spicy brown mustard
1/2 teaspoon salt (to taste)
1/4 teaspoon pepper (to taste)
Directions:
1.Place onion rings into a 5-quart slow-cooker.
2.Place ribs on top of onions.
3.In a small bowl, mix together the barbecue sauce, maple syrup, mustard, salt and pepper; pour over ribs.
4.Cover; cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or until the meat is tender.
My Adjustments:
**Ok the sauce for this stuff is PHENOMENAL. It's soooo soooo good. So I tripled the sauce, and poured it over the ribs to cook.
** I also didn't have honey bbq sauce, so I used regular K.C Masterpeice BBQ sauce and added about 2 tablespoons of honey for each batch of sauce.
** After the ribs were done in the crock pot, I wanted to crisp them up a little bit. So I took them out of the crock pot, and placed on a broiler pan. I then scooped out some of the BBQ sauce, and smothered the ribs with the sauce, and placed the ribs under the broiler for 2-4 minutes, occasional pulling them out and adding more sauce.
I think no matter how you make the recipes, either as written, or my way...they were both really really good. They are also not a whole lot of work. You can start the ribs in the morning, and let them simmer all day. You can then make the potato salad whenever you have a free minute, since the ribs are taking care of themselves.
Enjoy!
♥
JLB
A couple things
Saturday, May 3, 2008
Alright so I've been thinking about changing a couple things. Since I was classified as a "sequential learner" in my organizational behavior class, it seems natural for me to list my potential changes.
1. I've been thinking about doing a "recipe of the week" type thing, or maybe recipe of the month, depending on how busy and/or lazy I am. I love to cook and bake, and I come across a lot of great recipes, so I thought it would be cool to share, especially for those of you who are busy moms.
2. I've also been thinking that since Bevan and I really do not lead interesting lives, and our dogs are in very little danger of being "dogknapped", I don't think I will make our blog private. Let's face it, not that many people read this thing, so as for now, it will remain public. However, once I feel like something in our lives has changed, or if I get a creepy comment, then it will be made private. Those of you who sent me your e-mail address, I will keep them for future use, if need be. I will also delete your comments in which you posted them so other people won't have access.
3. I also thought about maybe doing some craft tutorials on here, or on Messy Bess. I've had a few people ask me how I do certain things, and I ain't no Martha Stewart, but I would certainly be willing to create a tutorial for those "craft challenged" people. ;)
But believe me, being creative and coming up with new things is very hard, especially for someone like me who likes to use the word "ain't".
♥
JLB
p.s- I totally thought of all these ideas in the shower. Gross, huh?
