A New Year . . . Almost

I'm so excited to begin a new year. Benj and I are going to try to lose some weight this year, so my goal is to create delicious, LOW FAT meals. Our "free" day, where we can eat anything we want, will be on Saturday. We'll be eating salads everyday for lunch, and I want to make sure my family gets 5 servings of fruits and vegetables a day. Next week is when we'll really be getting into it.

MONDAY - Mexican - Chicken Enchiladas
TUESDAY - New - Stuffed Shells
WEDNESDAY - Seafood - Shrimp Stir Fry
THURSDAY - Chili's
FRIDAY - French Dip
SATURDAY - Soups On! - Minestrone
SUNDAY - Traditional - Steak and mashed potatoes

Late Menu

A little late, but this weeks menu:

Monday: Crock Pot Hawaiian Chicken
Tuesday: Chicken Crescents
Wednesday: Breaded Pork Chops and stuffing
Thursday: Beef Tacos
Friday: Potato Chowder in bread bowls
Saturday: Company Party - no cooking!
Sunday: Chicken Broccoli Casserole

Benj and I decided to shoot for $50 a week on groceries. Yeah, wish us luck. That also includes diapers and baby food. I've been inspired by Money Saving Mom. She has 2 kids, so if she can do it, I can do it!

Peanut Butter Blossoms

Made these last Sunday and thought I'd share the recipe.

Peanut Butter Blossoms

1/2 cup shortening
1/2 cup peanut butter
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/8 teaspoon baking soda
1 egg
2 tablespoons milk
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 3/4 cup all purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
Hershey kisses (I like to use the caramel ones)

1. Beat shortening and peanut butter with an electric mixer 30 seconds. Add the 1/2 cup granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, and baking soda. Beat until combined, scraping bowl. Beat in egg, milk, and vanilla. Beat in as much flour as you can. Stir in any remaining flour.

2. Shape dough into 1-inch balls. Roll balls in the 1/4 cup granulated sugar. Place 2 inches apart on an ungreased cookie sheet. Bake in 350 degree oven for 10-12 minutes or until edges are firm and bottoms are lightly browned. Immediately press a chocolate kiss into each cookie's center. Transfer to a wire rack and let cool.