Time for Light and Yummy

Hot days are here, and I have been in the mood for some light, easy dinners. Last night we had Antipasto Tortellini Salad, which was a huge hit and took maybe 15 minutes to make (I had to wait for the tortellini to boil). I used a homemade balsamic vinaigrette which I enjoyed so much I used the rest on my salad at lunch. I also threw in one boiled chicken breast, because Dan has to have meat with his meals. Any precooked chicken would work.

(Picture from Betty Crocker)

Antipasto Tortellini Salad

1	package (9 oz) refrigerated cheese-filled tortellini
1	cup drained Giardiniera vegetable mix (from 12-oz jar), near pickles
1	can (15 oz) Progresso® dark red kidney beans, drained, rinsed
3	plum (Roma) tomatoes, coarsely chopped (1 cup)
4	medium green onions, sliced (1/4 cup)
2	tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1/2	cup balsamic vinaigrette dressing

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1.

Cook and drain tortellini as directed on package. Rinse with cold water; drain.

2.

Cut up large pieces in Giardiniera vegetable mix. In large bowl, mix tortellini, vegetable mix and remaining ingredients except dressing. Add dressing; toss to coat. Serve immediately, or refrigerate up to 2 hours.My picture, ha ha, big difference

Tonight I threw this little number together. Took all of 15 minutes to make, I like it, I'll update after dinner on how kids liked it. . .

(adjust to family size, this feeds 4)

3/4 pkg of Orzo, cooked according to box directions
1/2 pkg of fresh Mozzarella, cut into cubes
2 vine-ripe medium tomatoes
Fresh Basil, about 8 leaves, chopped
Turkey Pepperoni, about 12 sliced (only because of Dan, is good without as well, or use another meat)
Olive Oil, to coat
Salt and Pepper to Taste

Boil Orzo. Cut Mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, and pepperoni while pasta is boiling. Once Orzo is finished, run under cool water to cool down, coat with olive oil to prevent from sticking, add all other ingredients, mix, enjoy!

May Happenings

I have been horrible this year about posting, but better few and far between than not at all, right? The kids started swim this past month, and have really enjoyed it. I am pleased with their progress and will definately feel more comfortable at the pool this year. Noleigh has already moved up and Hiram, if we can ever shake his fear of the water, will soon.

On May 2, we looked out the window to find a little grey furball out in our yard, I had to go out and get a closer look and this was what it was, a baby possum. . . and as a friend pointed out, that means the mama is not too far away. . . glad we didn't run into her instead.

We love Grandview Nature Reserve, especially when we can enjoy it with friends, thanks Andrea and kids for joining us!

And this month I got to celebrate another birthday. Dan and the kids made me a yummy chocolate cake and spoiled me with a wonderful dinner. Thanks guys, you are good to me!

On May 14, there was a Homeschool Day at the Norfolk Botanical Gardens. We really enjoyed the park and learning about eagles, seeds, and pollinators. The kids especially enjoyed the eagles nest and seeing some bugs in the pitcher plant.

Hiram was having a hard time seeing the eagle's nest, so Noleigh was pointing it out to him.

We had another birthday this month, Oreo celebrated his first year alive (which was a miracle considering he all the naughty things he has done!) The kids had wanted to bake him a cake, even after I told them he couldn't have any. . . . I think they were more excited about having a treat than they were about Oreo's birthday.

Yesterday morning we had the opportunity to join my dad in placing flags at the National Cemetary here in our area. It was a good way to start our day and our weekend. We enjoyed being out and taking a little bit of time to remember those who served in our Armed Forces. I am truly thankful for the sacrifices of our ancestors and I am grateful for opportunities to teach my children to feel gratitude as well.

Noleigh with Chuck Smith, a gentelman who is running for Congress for the November election, Good Luck!

Last night we headed to Busch Gardens, and it was just a gorgeous night to be there. I have always loved the landscaping, we found this little area, that we must have overlooked several times and found a few little surprises.

We found this little frog/tadpole, it was cool to see a young frog who still hadn't lost its tail. We had just learned about the frog's life cycle in science, so it was cool that we came across a quasi-morphed frog.

This may have been the mom or the dad?