Sedona Vacation

It is amazing how much there is to do in our fantastic state of Arizona. Yes, it is hot, but such gorgeous scenery is just all around us. We just returned from a long weekend in Sedona--so fun! Scott and I hiked some great trails; this photo is in front of the Vultee Arch, which Scott actually scrambled to and stood atop. Now...it is back to reality.

Seriously? It's been a MONTH?!

Where in the world did the time go? Let's see, happenings that I can remember (in no particular order).

1. We went to San Diego for 4 days. Spent a little time on the beach, went to the zoo, Balboa Park (for museums), and Sea World. Got DRENCHED on Atlantis at Sea World. Tip: two big people in the front seat is maybe not the best idea. :) Saw the Georgia O'Keefe show at the art museum (sigh-didn't want to leave). I am not the biggest fan of her flowers but the landscapes are amazing.

2. Got bifocals (the progressive ones--no line). I hate them a little bit.

3. Went to the fabulous Laurie Notaro reading on July 11th with my friend, Sara. Laurie is my very favorite writer, and she is so funny and kind. She said she remembered me from previous readings. Uh, no, she wasn't "just being nice."

Whoa...

When Scott was driving the girls back to their mom's last night (we got to spend Father's Day together), Sonja said, "ah, Dad, I miss Ann already." I think yesterday was step-mom day, too! :)

This whole step-mom journey has been long and challenging. It is a process of learning and discovery and compromise and tongue-biting. It is the hardest thing I've ever done and the most rewarding experience I've ever had. The hugs and little talks are becoming daily, and I frequently feel a hand take mine as we're out and about. It's like being a mom and nothing like being a mom all at the same time. A therapist told me that the best thing I can be for them is a "calm in the storm," a place where there is room to breathe.

I'm workin' on it! What a day, you guys. I'm overwhelmed with emotion...

Williamsburg, VA & D.C. trip...

Just a few pics from our trip. We're visiting Williamsburg, and D.C., and we stopped at the aquarium, too. Lots of fun stuff for the kids to do, and interesting stories for the grown-ups.

The Crockpot

I broke out a wedding gift recently--my crockpot. You see, we, in the Bonar household have committed to a healthier lifestyle. ALL of us! We had to find ideas that would appeal my scientist husband (who is slowly realizing that he CAN live without cheese) and our girls.

The BEST easy-chicken-cooking-plan is this: get a bag of those frozen chicken breasts (no bones, skin, etc) and throw them in said crockpot with a couple of cans of the really cheap green enchilada sauce. Cook on low for 6-8 hours (depending on how fancy your pot is!). They shred like a dream. Use in salads, or soft tacos (with the torts that are only 1 point!), or mixed up with kidney beans, diced tomatoes and green chilis over brown rice, or with whole wheat pasta diced tomates, Italian spices.

Really yummy and so easy. The kids even like this stuff!

Another idea. Fat free salad dressing is so gross. Mix it with some salsa (free on WW!) to dress salads or dip veggies.

Down 5 LB's :)

After bidding adieu to PB Jalapeno Chips (sniff...sniff) and throwing some water and exercise into the mix, I'm down 5.

By the way, carrots are a LAME-O replacement for said chips.

403 calories

That's what 21.6 miles on the stationary bike will do ya'.

The important question is: how many Poor Brother's Jalapeno Chips is that?