Gardens, Dancing, and Birthdays

Before it got too hot, we all headed down to the Norfolk Botanical Gardens. The kids especially enjoyed the climbing trees, while I enjoyed the peaceful, beautiful setting. Dan enjoyed snapping pictures and, well, not being at work. We are headed back sometime this week or next to see the butterfly house and Storybook Village that just opened, we look forward to going back.

At the beginning of June, my sister Sarah came down for a week, and we had a great time. We went to Busch Gardens and Water Country. It was so fun being with her and her mini-me. Finlee kept us on our toes and laughing a whole lot.

On June 19th, Noleigh had her Ballet Recital at Willet Hall. No pictures or videos were allowed, so I snapped a quick picture back stage. She and her class did a great job and I enjoyed seeing her hard work pay off.

Noleigh also celebrated her birthday this month. We had to celebrate a little late, Dan had a military exercise, and we wanted him to be able to celebrate with us. He was the one who made her birthday cake, which was very yummy!

The week of the 21st, the kids went to summer camp at the Air and Space Museum. They had a great time, and at the end they had an Ogre and Princess Parade. They had a wonderful time flying kites, making ogre slime, building catapults, planting a beanstalk, seeing the new exhibit Grossology, and doing other gross and fun things. I, in usual fashion, forgot my camera so I did the best I could with my cell phone. I'm grateful that I had at least that on me, though it didn't take very good pictures, at least we have something.

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!