Kids in the Kitchen

I love to see kids in the kitchen. I never had the energy to do it with mine and that is very disappointing on my party as a parent. My bills ruled my life instead of me taking charge of my life and paying attention to my children.

Anyway that is the sad part of this post. The Pampered Chef has worked hard for the last 36-37 years to build individuals to the best of their God given talents and to build healthy families. We are committee to teaching adults and children the power of the family table and to teach the art of giving back. Laura Austin - The Pampered Chef

I have wonderful memories of being in the kitchen. That's usually where we would eat breakfast, lunch or have a snack, but at dinner time it was into the dining room. Placemats, coasters, real plates, and real flatware. It was very important to my family to eat this meal at the dining room table. But I don't ever remember my Grandma or my Mom teaching me to cook. I don't ever remember helping to measure out the ingredients for anything. I remember though, one day in particular. I came home from school and I had my afternoon snack with my Grandma, we lived with Grandma, and Grandma was chasing me around the kitchen table and I would make her laugh by blowing up my cheeks and crossing my eyes. She laughed so hard at me. LOL. That is one of my most cherished kitchen memories. My Mom and Grandma took care of me very well, but I still don't remember ever being taught HOW to cook. I took a home economics class in high school, catering, and I loved it. It was there that I learned a lot about cooking.

With all of the violence in the world, case in point the recent bombing in the UK, the constant shootings we have in our area here, where is the love, where has all of this hate and discontent come from. As a society, have we lost so much that we can't get it back. We have lost an entire generation to this discontent. We, adults, have lost sight at how important our children are for our future. We are more focused on making the needed money to just survive in the country. All of our utilities are so high we can afford to pay them but we can't afford to have them turned off because our children will freeze in the winter and roast in the summer, since global warming has gotten so bad. We cannot live without water, and you can't really cook very well without it either. We have to have transportation to get to and from work and because the boss wants us to be in at 6 or 7 am we have to give over our children to a childcare provider. And God help that childcare provider if there is an issue and they try to correct it then and there. The parents go off! I have always said that it take a tribe to raise children. Each individual has something to teach. What a parent see as the child not being rude, may be rude to someone else. We have to teach our children how to talk to others with respect and we have to teach them that they really do need to care about the other persons feelings. I know raising children is the hardest job in the world, I have been working on three of my own. It's not easy and not for the faint of heart. There is so much we really need to fix in this world, but we need to continue to take our families back. We can't afford to continue to lose them to a faulty society.

In need of prayer

I don't know what to do today. I'm feeling meh today. I'm praying a lot. I want to smile, I  want to post, I  want to work my business, but I just don't have the energy today. I do have a few things on my mind but I  didn't think it was bothering me.


I know it's really my fault because I  over extended my money this pay period. There are a couple of bulls i can't pay and it's really bothering me.

I went to church yesterday and it was youth Sunday. It was really good and e sang hymns that were my favorite like "Lord I life your name on High" and "Shout to the Lord". I love those because they are so up beat and inspiring. I also did something that I haven't done in years and that was i paid my tithes. I feel that it's very important in my life. It really always had been but I've never really done it constantly. As I  am turning over this new leaf in my life I feel that I  need to do this. Good has blessed me with so much in my life and He continues to show me everyday. I also know that when I  am feeling like this I must continue to have faith. Even if it is just the faith of a mustard seed and that is all I can muster right now God is still happy, but it's not enough for me. At this time, right now, as I  am typing this I am laying it at the feet of my Lord.

       




Oh, I wanted to tell you! I used these two amazing products this weekend. The ceramic egg coffee and the indoor/outdoor grill. I made an egg and cheese omelet and a single serve blueberry lemon muffin. They were both amazing and on the grill I did lemon pepper chicken. So juicy and tender. WOW! The egg coffee is$15.50 + tax and shipping and the grill is $125.00 + tax and shipping. If you would really like to get the grill or even the egg coffee for free contact me and I'll tell you how.

Laura Austin - The Pampered Chef

Stepping it up

 

Remember when I said that was was going to have to step it up with my lifestyle change? That I was to the point that the water weight was gone and now it's time to burn the "real" fat? Well on Thursday I decided that was a good day to begin the second leg of my journey.

I was sitting at home, working; yes on my Pampered Chef business, and I received a phone call from my boss at the school. She asked me if I could help get one of our busses back to the school as the repairs had been finished. Of course I told her yes. Well she told me to be at the school by 1 and I was about 15 minutes early and my fellow bus driver that was going with me was about 10 minutes early. I know him so well. We went on and got the bus and I headed back to school. Well I couldn't see parking the bus, going back home for 30 minutes, and driving back to school. So I decided I would just stay at school and instead of just sitting there I went for a walk on the school track. Now mind you, there was a wonderful breeze blowing and it really wasn't to bad outside. I'm excited, I am going to do this. I'm walking along, doing fine when I realize that my feet were stinging. Holy Mother of God! The devil was licking my feet. Don't Google that for a graphic. My eyes hurt and I dumped my cookies right away. lol. Anyway, I was determined that I was not going to give up. I wanted to get in my 30 minutes so I could get my 30 fit points. I lasted about 25 minutes. I had blisters on the balls of my feet that were the size of half dollars. I DO NOT recommend that you walk in 93 degree heat, on an asphalt track, with the wrong shoes. I had on tennis shoes but they were not walking shoes and the heat went right through them. Phew what an adventure I had.

I have to tell you that I have been feeling very at peace this last week. I have dedicated myself to a new lifestyle and I am sticking to it. I am finding it easier to get up in the mornings. I've gone from 3 alarms down to 1, and I am smiling a lot more and having a lot more positive thoughts. There is one thing that I have changed, something that I should have been doing my whole life, and that is I pray. I might no do it when I first get up but by the time I get on the bus, I am praying while I am driving. I praise my Lord for all that he has given me, and then even though is knows all, I ask for something specific and I find that He is there. He is watching over me. I am a human! An imperfect human! Of course that statement leads right back to "What does it mean to be an Adult". All your bills are paid, and on time, your house is immaculate, your yard is cut and trimmed and flowerbeds weeded, your dishes are clean and put away and your kitchen is so clean you could eat off the floor. You are perfect! Well I was told that if I was like that, then I shouldn't be here on earth because only God is perfect. I am so thankful that I do make mistakes, as long as I learn from them. Because I would not want to miss a minute of my life here on earth with my family and my friends.

God's love, joy and peach to you

Laura

Be your own BOSS

You get up in the morning, thank the Lord, and you get ready for work. Shower, dress, breakfast (maybe), coffee (a must), get in the car (get caught in traffic), finally get to work and your doing great, you haven't spilled coffee on you (yet). Punch in at the computer and if you are a grunt like me, let the sweating begin. Work harder then hard for the boss for 8 hours, go home with muscles hurting you never thought you had or you're sitting at your desk all day on the computer and your carpal tunnel has kicked in and your back and butt are hurting so bad it's hard to get up and walk because your stiff. Now I know that companies like this are trying to be more opened minded and getting computer/office workers these ergonomic desk that allow you to stand up at your station and get the blood flowing again, kudos to them. Thanks for helping. Ok your day is done and you are on the way home. Punch out, get in your car, get in traffic (again), and when you finally get home you're so tired that the idea of fixing something to eat is the farthest thought from your mind. Sit down in the easy chair, breath a sigh of relief, and here's a happy thought. GET UP AND DO IT ALL AGAIN TOMORROW! Oh yeah.  If you are a wife and a Mom, or a single Father even, Lord help you, let us pray. Do you really want me to go through that list of things to do. No I don't think I will take the time. We would be here all day reading what has to be done. Let's just say there is a better way for you to make extra money in spare time (if you have any), or to eventually replace your paycheck, AND it's fun. So you can do this......

Or you could consider this.......

    

You could have more time for your family by working around their schedule. Work where you want and when you want. Never again have to sit in traffic and breathe exhaust fumes that are not really good for you. I am not saying to quit your job right this minute because I am not saying that the money and time is just going to fall into your lap. What I am saying is that with a lot of hard work, an investment into yourself, and consistency you already have you CAN make some extra money or even replace a paycheck (sometimes surpass). You can contact me or visit my website for more information. Laura Austin - The Pampered Chef

According to womenonbusiness.com there are 5 signs that you are ready to be your own boss.
*ALL the information given below is copy and pasted from the website.

You have ideas

There’s much debate about whether entrepreneurs are born or made, but they all share something in common: a list of ideas that just won’t stop growing and evolving. When they look at business, they see innovation, ways to improve, and opportunities missed.

This insight is described as a blessing and a curse, but if you have that ability, it’s a clear sign you might be suited to going it alone. This drive and resilience may mean you’re willing to take a risk, back yourself, and have more than one plan on how to achieve your aim.

Good Product

Whether you have created it yourself or have come across a product you’d like to be associated with, having a great product or service is imperative to your business success. If your motivation to be in business is about managing your own time and using your skills, there are a host of options.

There are some great companies that want inspired people on board under their own terms, such as Telcoinabox, who can help set you up to be your own telecommunications provider.

Passion

If you believe in your idea and have the passion to drive it, there’s a good chance you’re ready to be your own boss. Business requires an unshakeable belief – in your concept, your product, and your ability to deliver it. Passion guarantees job satisfaction. It also inspires enthusiasm in your team and customers.

Want something different

Many people realize it’s time to go into their own business when they find themselves sitting at their desks and begrudging their jobs, wishing they could manage their own time and do it their own way. Successful business people will often tell you a major reason they went into business was simply to be their own boss.

Business Awareness

A great way to recognize you are ready to own your own business is to know how business works, particularly in your chosen field. Hospitality is different to sales, maintenance is different to manufacturing, but if you have an awareness of the industry, ability to learn, and some experience in how business operates, then you’re already part of the way there.

Any person entering their own business accepts that it’s a risk. Few things in life are guaranteed, and business is no different. But if you have passion, drive, a great product and some know-how, it could be a risk that reaps huge financial returns and amazing lifestyle rewards.

Do you think you’re ready for the leap? Share in the comments the signs you’ve noticed that might indicate it’s time for you to take a chance on running your own business.

Planning ahead can relieve stress

Planning ahead can help you relieve stress. Just like finally listening to the nag you have in the back of your mind that keeps reminding you that you need to get back to the gym. But there is a downfall to planning ahead and that is if you are trying to plan to far ahead. In comes the anxiety. That's for a later time, but yes, a good plan is never a mistake.

I had my field trip today, so yesterday I looked at the paperwork, again, and noticed the time of pick up, where we were going, how many I would have on board, and what time we would be arriving back at school. Well my pick up time was for 8:15am and we would not be arriving back at school until about 1. With my lifestyle change I knew that I needed to be prepared with my lunch and snacks and everything else I might need. Also you remember the fiasco I had last friday? No lunch or snack because I was to lazy to get my rears out of bed. Well this week was way, way different. We are still on the night before. I call my husband and asked him to stop at the store for a few things. I needed lettuce, carrots, and cherry tomatoes, he also added some Mini Babybel cheese, AMAZING! So I grab my vegetable knife, yes it's green, and my Pampered Chef Close and Cut, wonderful tool, and cut my tomatoes in half. But the lettuce in the Pampered Chef Make and Take Mason Jar along with the tomatoes and added the dressing in the secret compartment in the top of the lid and bamb I was set. Done! That had my two vegetable that I am allowed for lunch. I packed my two proteins, carbohydrate, and my fat was in the dressing. Lunch was packed, in my lunch box and waiting for me in the refrigerator for in the morning. Also while all this was going on with me I also used my Pampered Chef simple slice and sliced up 5 red potatoes and had them ready in about 8 minutes. All and all I had dinner fixed, and my lunch packed in about 20 minutes. I take a minute and show you the products I used to help me get this done so fast.

 

Make and Take Mason Jar Set

                                                                                                        Simple Slicer

     

Close and Cut set                                        

Laura Austin - The Pampered Chef

By the time the morning came I was so refreshed and relaxed that I was able to pop out of bed and go take my shower, fix my breakfast, and pack the last additional items I needed for my trip. This is one time when being prepared really paid off for me big time. My day when as smooth as a babies butt today. lol

God's love, peace and joy to you,

Laura

OMG

Oh my what a day already. I have to tell you all that I was sitting here trying to think about what I was going to talk about today or what I was going to complain about. I have to laugh at myself though. Thoughts kept sneaking in from the back of my mind. You know that wonderful to do list that we all have. Dishes, laundry, etc.

I went to work this morning like a normal more, except on time, lol, and left school on time. I'm going down the road and traffic starts to stop. I'm like, "let's keep going people, what is what they make sunglasses for". We were all headed in an easterly direction. Well the traffic just kept stacking up and we were coming to a complete stop and I start watching the clock. I know that I am going to be late for my students, so I call in and told her what was going on. By the way my friends please pray for the people involved in the multi-car accident that happened this morning.

Getting back to the back of my mind. As I was sitting there in traffic I kept thinking about how I am going to have to step things up now. I have reached the end of the first stage of my weight loss, I'm done losing all the water weight now it is time to burn the fat. I have a Fitbit and I also have a Pebble. My Pebble is connected to my phone and my Fitbit to my tablet. I want to keep track of my walking activity, drinking enough water, and making sure I get up and move around every hour. I will get lost when I am working on the computer and I will sit for hours. So while we are at a full stop I start loading the apps I want on my phone/watch. lol.

Ok, so I finally go home and I know that I have work to do on the computer. So I sit down and start going through the different things that I always do and got side tracked. I stopped working on my business and started organizing files. I swear sometimes I have ADD. Well I get to the part where I pull up my blog and I think, "ok, what are we going to try to enlighten ourselves about today". The page sat there for about ten minutes, blank. Not one work, no thoughts coming to my mind except that little voice in the back of my mind again telling me to get off my butt and get your laundry done as well as the dishes. My dishwasher is broken so I have to hand wash them. Yuck! Anyway, I get off my behind and I start doing my chores and thinking, in the back of my mind again, what I need to do to prepare for tomorrows field trip. I won't be home for lunch so I have to be prepared. If manage to finish my dishes and I have one load of laundry in the dryer and one in the washer and LOOK, here I am. Writing away as if something has been freed in me. I still have to prepare my food for my field trip tomorrow, but that will be easy. I will take left overs from tonight! Yeah, problem solved, except my husband will still have to go to the store after work for me so I have everything I need more dinner.

I sure am having a blast laughing at myself today. And one more thing I have to laugh at is National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation is on Oxygen today!

Goodness my pot roast smells good.

I have to give myself credit where credit is due. Even though I have reached a small plateau in my weight loss I am not discouraged. The craving for sugar and fat have ALMOST gone away and I have stuck to my menu. I have no desire to stop at Hardee's in the mornings anymore and I don't want to stop at the BP and get a 44oz. diet soda either. I can drive right past them and I do not get any pangs of regret that I started this change in lifestyle. When I know that I am not going to be home I have begun to pre plan my meals or if I know we are going out I start think ahead of time what I can order.

I am doing great and I am enough. I am worth the skin I live in and I am worth loving. I am beautiful and my husband and children, and grand children, love me! My life is blessed! I give all this AWESOMENESS to my Lord above, because if it were not for him I would not have what I have today.

With God's love, joy and peace

Laura

Sunday

As promised I am back to tell you about Sunday.

Sunday morning we all got up and went to early morning church service, and it was great as it always is. The Preacher knows just how to step on my toes to make me sit up and listen. Sometimes my toes really hurt when I am not be the Christian I should be and she dances on my toes. My mind imagines a little tiny Preacher happily singing and dancing on my toes while looking up and me and smiling. It's like she is saying "you get it now". Ouch Preacher, yeah I get it. lol

Anyway I got a little lightheaded as we were singing the hymns and I had to sit down. Once I was stable I continued to sing while sitting between my husband and our youngest daughter. After the service was over my husband asked me what was wrong and I explained to him that my body was going through a transition as I am not eating refined sugar anymore or drinking soda's. So I am in that adjustment period and I get lightheaded on occasion.

Well after church we went home so we could get something to eat, yes I ate my breakfast but I needed a little more, and sit down and relax before meeting my middle daughter and her fiance' for dinner at Olive Garden to celebrate Mother's Day together. I got a little tired while waiting, after all it was quite a long time before we had to meet them, so I took a nap. About 3:30 I received a phone call from her that her fiance' was sick and they would not be able to make it. "Ok" I said, and told my husband that dinner was off. He asked me what I wanted to do. And here is the kicker my friends, He said, "I know with this "diet" you are on you don't really want to go out and eat do you"? Now that was amazing for me because he helped to not self sabotage myself. He supports me in my endeavor and is proud of how hard I am working on it. We sat back for a while and watched some really great movies on the Lifetime channel and when dinner came I fixed dinner for us and when the time came I went to bed very peacefully. What a wonderful Mother's Day I had!

God's Peace, Love and Joy to you all
Laura