Tin Cup Chalice

Hey y’all … My boss graciously allowed me to work from home yesterday so I was able to take frequent naps, frequent trips to the bathroom, frequent coughing, frequent blowing nose noise and guck all in the comfort of my home. I’m sure that my co-workers appreciated me not grossing up the place.

So, one of the thing I enjoyed while my throat was sore was this new ice-cream called Häagen-Dazs five™ which only contains (as you guessed it) five ingredients: milk, cream, sugar, eggs, and the flavor. I am always one who believes it’s best to be natural with moderation rather than unnatural in excess. For example, I only drink regular Coca-Cola Classic and never Diet Coke. One, I believe that aspartame isn’t good for you*, and two, by having the original and limiting myself to one only once in a while I don’t have the problem with calories.

Same goes with ice-cream. I buy real all natural ice-cream and eat in moderation. I think one of the best things you can do for yourself is to practice moderation. Keep the ice-cream in the fridge and only allow yourself small amounts now and then. It is amazing how much willpower you actually have if you just put it to good use!

Well, this ice-cream is delicious… let me tell you! I got the coffee flavor and it’s been perfect as an afternoon or evening snack. I find that the flavor is so rich that I really only need a few spoonfuls. It’s heavenly.

* Please note that aspartame itself is not the problem… there is more and more research out that shows people who drink diet drinks have a higher risk of obesity… they believe it is because those who drink the diet drinks drink more in one day than those who drink the full flavor drinks and the empty calories and acidic properties are causing all sorts of health issues. Just myself I know several people who drink over 5 diet drinks A DAY. Ridiculous. People think that because it’s a diet meal or drink or whatever that they can have more of it but instead it should still be limited as you would anything else.

Okay, I’m down off my soap-box. Hope y’all are enjoying your week… it’s almost Friday!

Y’all… today I’m seriously missing me some Ocean City, Maryland… more importantly I’m craving some Thrasher’s French Fries.

Ocean City has one of the nations most outstanding boardwalks.

From their site: “It’s like a buffet that’s three miles long. Or a shopping mall. Or a stage. Or all of them put together. We call it the boardwalk. And the Travel Channel and USA Today both named it one of America’s best.

Bike it, stroll it, or ride the tram. However you do it, you’ll soon see what all the buzz is about. Foods of every description: wonderful Maryland crab cakes, sizzling French fries, fresh, hot pizza, overstuffed sandwiches, and luscious saltwater taffy.

Duck into an arcade and try your hand at your favorite game. (Or try a new one.) Scream with delight on the rollercoaster, or enjoy a ride on one of America’s oldest working carousels.

Ready to shop? The boardwalk is ready for you with beachwear, T-shirts, toys and any number of surprises. And in summertime, the street performers turn all the world into a stage – where you may become a player at any moment.

Need a little respite? Head down to the inlet, and watch the fishing boats head in and out to sea.

In short, the Ocean City boardwalk is three miles of concentrated, family-friendly fun, where ocean breezes are scented with the lovely aroma of French Fries and caramel popcorn, and adventure waits at every turn. You just have to experience it for yourself, ASAP.”

Every summer my family had two time share weeks that we’d use… one in June and one in July. We’d head to Ocean City and always have the best time. I miss those family vacations as a kid. I sure hope that I get to do the same things with my children (should God bless me with that opportunity).

Today, as it is now Friday and soon the weekend will start (finally!) I hope that you remember the simple joys in life and that you cherish every memory as they shape you into the person you are and the person you will be. All the experiences in my life, good or bad, have made me the person I am today and I am grateful.

Have a wonderful weekend y’all!

I’m really liking the Planters NUT-rition snacks, especially the South Beach Diet Recommended Mix. I keep them in my drawer at work and it helps give me a boost in the afternoon when I’m feeling sleepy. I know that these cans cost more than just regular nuts but I can’t find another mix that doesn’t have the stuff I don’t like. If that makes sense. Although lately I’ve been lazy and just buying a can of cashews. I know that they’re not as good as the almonds but I like them better… hee hee.

Pretty much the coolest idea ever … the Sky Couch. Introduced by Air New Zealand, Sky Couch is basically a flip up portion that covers the leg room area to create a bed or couch like surface for you to lie down. My favorite comment in the WSJ article is, Mr. Fyfe said in a statement, “The dream is now a reality, one that you can even share with a travelling companion – just keep your clothes on.” LOL.

Seriously … I have no words. This is so awesome. Of course you have to purchase three seats together to get this function but still … awesome idea for sure! The plan eventually is that two adults would purchase two seats and the third seat at half-price. Hopefully this idea will catch on and more airlines will begin offering this option. Now, those flying in coach would be able to have some of the same luxuries as those in business class. How cool!?! What are your thoughts?

Welcome to another episode of Things I Like. Today I’m sharing with you my love of JELL-O Pudding and mostly their Fat Free Sugar Free Banana Cream. This is such an easy treat. It takes 5 minutes folks and has less than 25 calories in a serving … YUMMY!

Plus, you can make an easy Banana Cream Pie with this box and some NILLA Wafers. So good!

Have a great weekend y’all … and when you make some banana cream pie … be sure to save me a piece!

Hey y’all … today I’m featuring another episode of Things I Like … and I know that some of you are going to turn away in disgust. I know, I know, SOY CHEEZE??? WTF is that?

Well, I’ll tell you … cholesterol free lactose free wonderfulness. Amy’s makes wonderful products that are organic and vegetarian and easy! This macaroni and cheese is actually very good and helps me trick myself into thinking I’m eating something deliciously cheesy and yet I don’t suffer afterwards like I do when digesting milk products.

I really was rather skeptical but Amy’s has me sold. I really enjoy their frozen food and I wanted to share this with all you folks who might be lactose intolerant, like myself. Seriously. Try it.