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    My Blog is about many things, adult adoptee, autism, family, laughter, and love, feel free to follow me on my journey, and look through my archives. It takes more than one subject to define me or my family. We are a mixture of a bit of everything!


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    Saturday, October 30, 2010

    What have I learned about Autism?

    What have I learned about Autism? I question myself daily. I open my mind and absorb everything. I can throw out statistics but whose statistics are they? I can quote the CDC, the FDA, the Pro & Con this or that.. but what have I truly learned? What I've learned best is to follow my heart. 


    My son is 3 1/2... in our world even if he was diagnosed at  birth (which is impossible) he would still be considered "newly diagnosed". I would still be considered "a new mom". His diagnosis was actually around 2yrs. 


    So a year and a half later what have I learned?

    I've learned that a child throwing a fit in public, may actually have underlying issues. 

    I've learned to be a better parent.


    I've learned to keep an open mind. I've learned that regardless of the situation the tacky yet true statement "opinions are like assholes, everyone has them" is still relevant. I've learned to say what I feel and then STFU. Because sometimes if we shut up, we may just learn something.

    I've learned to be less judgemental.


    I've learned to not be too hard on ignorant people, they are just a product of our failed educational system.


    I've learned that Autistic Children are resilient.


    I've learned to not blog about things I'm still figuring out. I've learned to not lash out at people and organizations that don't believe in the things I do. I've learned if I have something profound to say, to say it only if I've experienced it personally. I've learned not to judge another persons experience.

    I've learned that I am the I in IEP


    I've learned that the blogging community can be full of cliques. I've learned that I will remain true to myself and not participate in blogs where the blogger encourages that type of behavior.


    I've learned that even though I am not a huge fan of some organizations that I can still empower my community by attending their events. I've learned by opening my mind and attending said events, I am able to make connections with my local Autism Community. I've learned that by doing all of this that maybe, just maybe they have served the purpose I need to further my activism in my own Community. I've learned to hold my judgement and participate then navigate.

    I've learned that the government is sitting back laughing and is the real puppet master of The infighting within the Autism Community.


    I've learned to state my opinion and then move on. I've learned to allow others to have their own opinions, no matter how aggressive and demeaning they may seem.

    I've learned if I truly want to be here for my son I had to change my lifestyle and exercise daily.

    I've learned that my typical kids deserve just as much time as my Special Needs Son.

    I've learned to choose my battles wisely.


    I've learned that just because your a big star with a big name does not mean that you care about the little people whom Autism has engulfed, financially, physically, & emotionally. I've learned not to lash out at you for your ignorance. I've learned to know what your about and store that in my memory bank. Because one day i will be a 501(c) and you will hear about my non-profit. And I will thank you for teaching me how a non-profit should be run, and who a non-profit should REALLY HELP.


    I've learned that for some people GFCF is their families way of life, and for me GFCF means Get Food Cheap and Fast. 

    I've learned that although our family doesn't "do the diet" that I can still collect recipes and point families that do in the right direction.


    I've learned that we can all get along and respect each other. I've learned that $5.00 to donate to shut it down for a day for Communication Shutdown doesn't mean we are tellling people the rest of the 364 days of the year we won't advocate vocally, and online, daily for our kids. I've learned you can advocate in Silence and be louder than words. I've learned that if you don't want to shut down, its okay to have alternatives. I've learned we can agree to disagree and not disrespect each other.

    I've learned that sometimes he is just being 3 1/2 and needs to be treated in that manner.

    I've learned that my loyal blogging friends whom are Non-Special Needs Bloggers really do "get it" and care about our children.


    I've learned that nobody but me can change my communities services for our children. I learned if you want real change step up and do it. Stop complaining that they have "nothing" for Autism here. Yes, some Rural areas and dirt road towns its a lot harder. But I've learned you have to make the difference and not rely on others. I google Autism Events daily. I love the Autism Calendar... and Google is my Bitch.


    I've learned that you can turn a non-autism event into an Autism Event. I just attended a CPR class and invited Autism moms to come with me. I met the Fire Department and opened the conversation about Autism. Could that have possibly saved one non-verbal child's life in a fire? I'd like to think so.


    I've learned that if I truly want to learn something about Autism to take most things with a grain of salt and to listen to Mothers who have struggled with No services. They have been labeled as the problem, they have lived with absolutely no awareness... THEY ARE OUR TRUE SOLDIERS... parents like Brandons Mom-Amalia Starr, Aspergers2Mom-Elise, Eustacia Cutler, and my very dear local mom of an Autisic pre-teen-Marisol Romeyn (who has taught me more than any book, blog, doctor, or manual). 


    I have learned that to truly spread Autism Awareness WE MUST RID OF THE INFIGHTING WITHIN OUR OWN COMMUNITY.  I've learned that debating back and forth between each other only causes confusion... and most importantly our message gets lost and our children suffer.


    What have you learned?

    Thursday, October 28, 2010

    Happy Safe Halloween!


    Early post for Halloween....

    Unknown Mami


    Have A Safe and Happy Halloween!
    Remember.....

    50 Non-Alcoholic Drink Recipes 

    1. Fresh Grape Soda
    4 cup(s) seedless red grapes, plus more for garnish 2 tablespoon(s) lemon juice 2 tablespoon(s) honey 2 cup(s) seltzer Instructions: Puree grapes in a blender. Pour the puree through a fine-mesh strainer set over a medium bowl or large measuring cup. Press on the solids to extract all the juice. Add lemon and honey to the juice; stir until the honey is dissolved. Add seltzer. Divide among 4 ice-filled glasses. Garnish with whole grapes. (Courtesy of eatingwell.com) http://www.delish.com/recipefinder/fresh-grape-soda-recipe 


    2. Double Lemon on the Rocks
    1 Lemon (Juice of, fresh)
    Lemonade
    Instructions:
    Put about a scoop of crushed ice into the bottom of a highball glass. Squeeze the lemon juice into it, and fill up with lemonade. (Courtesy of baronedrinks.com)
    http://www.barnonedrinks.com/drinks/d/double-lemon-on-the-rocks-7304.html 


    3. Red, White, and Blueberry Freezee
    1 c Whipping cream
    1/2 c Frozen blueberries
    1 ds Lemon juice
    1 x Sugar to taste
    Small Strawberries for garnish
    Instructions:
    Mix together the whipping cream, blueberries, lemon juice, and sugar in a blender. Top with a few strawberries. This refreshing drink is great on a hot day. (Courtesy of garvick.com)
    http://www.garvick.com/annual/4th-july/recipes/drinks.htm#alcohol-free


    4. Yellowjacket
    2 oz. Orange Juice
    2 oz. Pineapple Juice
    1/2 oz. Lemon Juice
    Instructions:
    Shake with ice and strain over ice cubes into an old-fashioned glass. Garnish with a lemon slice. (Courtesy of baronedrinks.com)
    http://www.barnonedrinks.com/drinks/y/yellowjacket-5567.html


    5. 4th of July Holiday Punch
    6 c Orange juice
    20 oz Frozen strawberries in syrup
    2 c Cranberry juice cocktail
    3 c Ginger ale
    Instructions:
    Blend together the orange juice, strawberries, and cranberry juice cocktail. Add ginger ale immediately before serving drinks. Makes 18 servings. (Courtesy of garvick.com)
    http://www.garvick.com/annual/4th-july/recipes/drinks.htm#alcohol-free 


    6. Limeade
    1 cup(s) sugar
    1 1/2 cup(s) fresh lime juice, plus lime wedges for garnish (14 to 16 limes total)
    Instructions:
    Heat sugar and 1 cup water in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring, until sugar has dissolved, 5 to 6 minutes. Stir together lime juice and 5 cups water in a large pitcher; stir in sugar syrup. Refrigerate until cold (or up 2 days in an airtight container). Garnish each serving with a lime wedge.
    (Courtesy of Martha Stewart Magazine)
    http://www.delish.com/recipefinder/limeade-mslo0510-recipe 


    7. Lemonade
    1 cup(s) sugar
    6 large lemons, seeded and juiced
    Instructions:
    Bring the sugar and 1 cup of water to a boil in a small saucepan. Stir occasionally until sugar dissolves completely. Cool.
    Stir the syrup, unstrained lemon juice, and 4 cups of cold water together in a large pitcher. Chill. Serve over ice.
    (Courtesy of Good Houskeeping)
    http://www.delish.com/recipefinder/lemonade-2999


    8. Watermelon Lemonade
    1 1/2 pound(s) sliced seedless watermelon, rind removed Zest of 1 lemon
    3/4 cup(s) fresh lemon juice
    1/2 cup(s) mild honey (such as orange blossom)
    1 lemon, thinly sliced, for garnish
    Instructions:
    In the bowl of a food processor, place watermelon and process until very smooth. Strain through a coarse sieve set over a bowl, stirring to push through any pulp. Pour juice into a large pitcher. Add lemon zest. In a bowl, whisk lemon juice and honey until honey dissolves; stir into watermelon juice.
    Stir in 1 1/2 cups cold water; cover and refrigerate until very cold. Serve over ice and garnish with lemon slices. (Courtesy of O, The Oprah Magazine)
    http://www.delish.com/recipefinder/lemonade-2999 


    9. Monster Slime Juice
    12 oz. Orange Juice (Concentrate)
    6 oz. Kool-Aid (Berry Blue)
    Water
    Instructions:
    Mix juice and Kool-Aid, add 1 gallon water, stir and watch it turn green! (Courtesy of baronedrinks.com)
    http://www.barnonedrinks.com/drinks/m/monster-slime-juice-3416.html


    10. Berry Lemonade
    8 cup(s) cold water
    2 cup(s) sugar
    3 cup(s) (from 15 to 16 medium lemons) fresh lemon juice
    3 strip(s) (3 inches by 1 inch each) lemon peel
    1 cup(s) raspberries
    1 cup(s) blackberries
    Ice cubes
    Seltzer or club soda
    Instructions:
    Prepare sugar syrup: In 4-quart saucepan, heat 4 cups water with sugar and lemon peel to boiling over high heat, stirring occasionally. Cover saucepan and boil 3 minutes. Remove saucepan from heat.
    Meanwhile, in food processor, pulse berries until pureed. Pour into medium-mesh sieve set over large bowl and press berry mixture with back of spoon to remove seeds; discard seeds.
    Remove peel from syrup; stir syrup into berry puree with lemon juice and remaining 4 cups water. Makes 13 cups. Pour into large pitcher with tight-fitting lid. Cover and refrigerate until cold, at least 3 hours or up to 2 days. Serve over ice.
    Add seltzer to taste; garnish with berries and lemon slices. (Courtesy of Good Housekeeping)
    http://www.delish.com/recipefinder/berry-lemonade 


    11. Iced Fruit Punch
    6 cup(s) assorted fruit juices
    3 cup(s) ginger ale
    3 cup(s) seltzer water
    Instructions:
    Make the ice: Freeze juice in ice trays. When solid, release from molds and store by flavor in sealable freezer bags for up to 1 month. Make the punch: Fill an 8-ounce glass to the top with about 1/2 cup assorted flavored ice cubes, add 1/4 cup ginger ale and 1/4 cup seltzer, and serve immediately.
    (Courtesy of Country Living)
    http://www.delish.com/recipefinder/iced-fruit-punch-3644


    12. Raspberry Spritzer
    2 cup(s) seltzer
    2/3 cup(s) frozen raspberries
    2 sprig(s) fresh mint
    3 ounce(s) raspberry-flavored syrup
    Ice cubes
    Instructions:
    Combine seltzer, raspberries, mint and raspberry-flavored syrup in a small pitcher. Pour over ice. (Courtesy of eatingwell.com)
    http://www.delish.com/recipefinder/raspberry-spritzer-recipe-5332?click=recipe_sr


    13. Batman Cocktail
    6 oz. Orange Juice
    1/2 tsp. Grenadine
    Club Soda
    Instructions:
    Serve over lots of ice cubes in a collins glass and top up with soda. Garnish with an orange slice. (Courtesy of baronedrinks.com)
    http://www.barnonedrinks.com/drinks/b/batman-cocktail-471.html


    14. Haymaker’s Ginger Switchel
    9 cup(s) water, divided
    1/4 cup(s) minced fresh ginger
    1/4 cup(s) honey or pure maple syrup
    1/4 cup(s) molasses
    3/4 cup(s) lemon juice
    1/4 cup(s) cider vinegar
    Fresh berries, mint sprigs or lemon slices for garnish Instructions:
    Combine 3 cups water with ginger in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Boil for 2 minutes. Remove from the heat, cover and let infuse for 15 minutes. Strain the ginger-infused water into a pitcher, pressing on the ginger solids to extract all the liquid. Add honey (or maple syrup) and molasses; stir until dissolved. Stir in lemon juice, vinegar and the remaining 6 cups water. Chill until very cold, at least 2 hours or overnight. Stir the punch and serve in tall glasses over ice cubes. Garnish with berries, mint sprigs or lemon slices, if desired. (Courtesy of eatingwell.com)
    http://www.delish.com/recipefinder/haymakers-ginger-switchel-recipe-9853


    15. Lemon-Orange Fizz
    2 cup(s) orange seltzer
    2 tablespoon(s) frozen lemonade
    1 tablespoon(s) lemon juice
    3 ounce(s) lemon (optional)
    Lemon wedge, for garnish
    Ice cubes
    Instructions:
    Combine seltzer, lemonade, lemon juice (if using). Rub rim of 2 glasses with lemon wedge and dip in sugar. Fill glasses with ice and top with the seltzer mixture. (Courtesy of eatingwell.com)
    http://www.delish.com/recipefinder/lemon-orange-fizz-recipe-5330


    16. Summer Delight Punch
    6 oz Can frozen lemonade
    6 oz Can frozen orange juice
    2 1/2 c Pineapple juice
    12 oz Can apricot or peach nectar
    1 ea Bottle ginger ale, (2 litre)
    1 ea Lemon, sliced
    Instructions:
    Mix together the lemonade, orange juice, pineapple juice, and nectar and chill. When ready to serve drinks, add the ginger ale. Garnish with lemon slices. (Courtesy of garvick.com)
    http://www.garvick.com/annual/4th-july/recipes/drinks.htm#alcohol-free


    17. Sparkling CranRazzy
    1/2 cup(s) fresh or frozen raspberries for garnish
    2 cup(s) cranberry-raspberry juice
    2 cup(s) seltzer
    2 tablespoon(s) lime juice, plus 4 wedges for garnish
    Instructions:
    If using fresh raspberries, freeze them in a single layer for about 1 hour (or overnight) before proceeding. Combine cranberry-raspberry juice, seltzer, and lime juice in a pitcher. Divide among 4 ice-filled glasses. Garnish with frozen raspberries and lime wedges. (Courtesy of eatingwell.com)
    http://www.delish.com/recipefinder/sparkling-cran-razzy-recipe-ew0410


    18. Chicago Lemonade
    1 oz. 7-Up
    1 Lemon (Juice of, fresh)
    1 oz. Soda Water
    3/4 oz. Sugar Syrup
    Instructions:
    Stir in a highball glass. Garnish with a lemon slice. (Courtesy of baronedrinks.com)
    http://www.barnonedrinks.com/drinks/c/chicago-lemonade-1265.html


    19. White Ice Tea
    4 white tea bags
    4 cup(s) water
    1/2 cup(s) sugar
    Fresh tarragon sprigs, to taste
    Instructions:
    Steep 4 white tea bags in 4 cups boiling water, then chill. Bring 1 cup water and 1/2 cup sugar to a boil, add tarragon, and steep until cool. Sweeten to taste with the resulting tarragon syrup, which will add a licorice note to the tea. (Courtesy of Country Living)
    http://www.delish.com/recipefinder/white-iced-tea


    20. Mint Tisane
    1 bunch(es) fresh mint
    1 bunch(es) fresh lemon verbena (optional)
    3 cup(s) (up to 6 cups) boiling water
    Sugar (optional), to taste
    Instructions:
    Place 1 bunch mint and 1 bunch lemon verbena (including stems) in teapot. Pour in boiling water and allow to steep about 5 minutes. Add sugar, if desired. Serve in small Moroccan or other clear tea glasses. (Courtesy of O, The Oprah Magazine)
    http://www.delish.com/recipefinder/mint-tisane-tea-drinks-recipes


    22. Watermelon Slushie
    2 cup(s) (1-inch pieces) seedless watermelon
    1/2 cup(s) pomegranate juice
    1/2 cup(s) ice cubes
    Instructions:
    In blender, combine watermelon, pomegranate juice, and ice cubes. Blend until smooth. Pour into tall glass. (Courtesy of Good Housekeeping)
    http://www.delish.com/recipefinder/watermelon-slushie-ghk


    23. Mango Peach Fizz
    1 ripe mango, peeled, pitted, and cubed (1 1/2 cups)
    1 large ripe peach, peeled, pitted, and cubed (1 cup)
    1/2 cup(s) unsweetened mango, peach, or orange juice
    1 tablespoon(s) sugar
    Peach flavored seltzer
    Cold club soda or seltzer
    Instructions:
    In a blender, puree mango, peach, fruit juice (mango peach or orange), and sugar (adding more sugar if puree is too tart). Puree can be made up to 1 day ahead and refrigerated. For each fizz, fill tall glasses with ice cubes. Pour 2 tbsp each puree and peach-flavored seltzer into each glass and top with cold club soda or seltzer. (Courtesy of Redbook)
    http://www.delish.com/recipefinder/mango-peach-fizz


    24. Pineapple Cooler
    1 large (about 4 pounds) fresh pineapple
    1 1/4 cup(s) sugar
    11 sprig(s) fresh lavender, rosemary, or lemon verbena
    1/4 cup(s) fresh lemon juice
    Instructions:
    Cut the peel from the pineapple, remove the core, and cut the fruit into 1-inch pieces. Place the fruit in a food processor fitted with a metal blade and pulse until the pineapple is crushed but not pureed. Transfer to a large nonreactive pot, add the sugar, 4 cups water, and 3 herb sprigs. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook for 15 minutes. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve. Gently press the solids to extract the juice. Cool and stir in the lemon juice. Serve over ice garnished with the remaining herb sprigs. (Courtesy of Country Living)
    http://www.delish.com/recipefinder/pineapple-cooler


    25. End Wrench
    3 oz. Orange Juice
    3 oz. Tonic Water
    Instructions:
    Add ice. Tastes remarkably like a Screwdriver. (Courtesy of baronedrinks.com)
    http://www.barnonedrinks.com/drinks/e/end-wrench-1874.html


    26. Pina Colada
    2 very ripe bananas
    1 cup(s) diced fresh pineapple, plus 4 wedges for garnish
    1 cup(s) pineapple juice
    1/2 cup(s) "lite" coconut milk
    3 cup(s) ice cubes
    Instructions:
    Puree bananas, diced pineapple, pineapple juice, coconut milk, and ice in a blender. Divide among 4 glasses. Garnish with pineapple wedges. (Courtesy of eatingwell.com)
    http://www.delish.com/recipefinder/virgin-banana-pina-colada-recipe


    27. Tropical Mango Smoothie
    1/2 cup(s) pineapple juice, chilled
    1 cup(s) diced mango
    1 banana, sliced
    2 teaspoon(s) fresh lime juice
    1/2 teaspoon(s) grated, peeled fresh ginger
    3 ice cubes
    Instructions:
    In blender, combine pineapple juice, mango, banana, lime juice, ginger, and ice and blend until mixture is smooth. Pour into 1 tall glass. (Courtesy of Good Housekeeping)
    http://www.delish.com/recipefinder/tropical-mango-smoothie-2297


    28. Summertime Barbarian
    1/2 cup(s) Grapefruit Juice
    1/2 cup(s) Pineapple
    1/2 cup(s) Strawberries
    Instructions:
    Blend with a cup of crushed ice until smooth and serve in two collins glasses. Garnish each glass with a kiwi wheel. (Courtesy of baronedrinks.com)
    http://www.barnonedrinks.com/drinks/s/summertime-barbarian-4910.html


    29. Cool Collins
    7 Mint Leaves
    2 oz. Lemon Juice (Fresh)
    1 tsp. Superfine Sugar
    Sparkling Water
    Instructions:
    Pour the lemon juice and the sugar in a collins glass. Stir well, then add the mint leaves and crushed them with a bar spoon. Add ice cubes and fill with sparkling water. Garnish with a fresh mint sprig and a lemon slice. (Courtesy of baronedrinks.com)
    http://www.barnonedrinks.com/drinks/c/cool-collins-1463.html


    30. Hawaiian Smoothie
    1 cup(s) chopped fresh pineapple
    1/2 cup(s) chopped peeled papaya
    1/4 cup(s) guava nectar
    1 tablespoon(s) lime juice
    1 teaspoon(s) grenadine
    1/2 cup(s) ice
    Instructions:
    Place ingredients in the order listed in a blender. Pulse three times to chop the fruit, then blend until smooth. Serve immediately. (Courtesy of eatingwell.com)
    http://www.delish.com/recipefinder/hawaiian-smoothie-recipe-10032


    31. Melon Ginger Smoothie
    1 cup(s) chopped honeydew melon
    1/3 cup(s) chopped peeled kiwi (1 large)
    1/2 ripe banana, sliced
    1/4 cup(s) white grape juice
    1/2 teaspoon(s) ginger juice (see Tips & Techniques)
    2 teaspoon(s) lime juice
    1/3 cup(s) lemon sorbet
    1/2 cup(s) ice
    Instructions:
    Place ingredients in the order listed in a blender. Pulse three times to chop the fruit, then blend until smooth. Serve immediately. (Courtesy of eatingwell.com)
    http://www.delish.com/recipefinder/melon-ginger-smoothie-recipe-9844


    32. Coladine
    1 can(s) Cola
    1/2 oz. Grenadine
    Instructions:
    In a mixing glass stir well the cola and the grenadine then pour over ice cubes in a highball glass. (Courtesy of baronedrinks.com)
    http://www.barnonedrinks.com/drinks/c/coladine-1415.html


    33. Daniel’s Cocktail
    2 tsp. Grenadine
    2 oz. Orange Juice
    1 1/2 oz. Lime Juice (Fresh)
    Instructions:
    Shake with ice and strain into a cocktail glass. (Courtesy of baronedrinks.com)
    http://www.barnonedrinks.com/drinks/d/daniels-cocktail-1612.html


    34. Orange Sunrise
    2 Eggs
    1/4 c Frozen Orange Juice Concentrate
    2 tb Honey
    2 c Cold Milk
    8 oz Orange flavored yogurt
    Instructions:
    Combine the eggs, orange juice and honey in the blender. Blend until smooth (about 1 minute). Add the milk and yogurt. Blend until smooth and frothy. Serve at once in tall, chilled glass. (Courtesy of garvick.com)
    http://www.garvick.com/annual/4th-july/recipes/drinks.htm#alcohol-free


    35. Exit 13E
    4 oz. Loganberry Juice
    4 oz. Pineapple Juice
    1/2 oz. Lime Juice (Fresh)
    Instructions:
    Stir well with ice and strain over ice cubes into a collins glass. (Courtesy of baronedrinks.com)
    http://www.barnonedrinks.com/drinks/e/exit-13-e-1900.html


    36. Strawberry Lemonade
    12 ounce(s) (2 cups) strawberries, hulled
    2 quart(s) homemade or store-bought sugar-free lemonade
    Instructions:
    In blender, puree strawberries. Strain through fine mesh sieve (you should have about 1 c. strained puree). Stir strawberry puree into lemonade. Chill before serving. (Courtesy of Good Housekeeping)
    http://www.delish.com/recipefinder/strawberry-lemonade-recipe


    37. Ginger Mint Julep
    Ginger Ale
    Powdered Sugar
    Sirop de Menthe (Or crushed mint leaves)
    Instructions:
    Rim as many highball glasses as you need with the sirop de menthe and the sugar. Divide out the rest of the sugar and add a few drops of sirop in each glass. Fill up with Ginger Ale and garnish with mint sprigs. (Courtesy of baronedrinks.com)
    http://www.barnonedrinks.com/drinks/g/ginger-mint-julep-2253.html


    38. Just a Moonmint
    2 cup(s) Milk
    1/4 tsp. Mint Flavoring
    Chocolate Syrup
    Instructions:
    Blend together at medium speed until smooth. (Courtesy of baronedrinks.com)
    http://www.barnonedrinks.com/drinks/j/just-a-moonmint-2858.html


    39. Miracle Drink
    Fruitopia (Strawberry Passion Awareness)
    Ginger Ale
    dash(es) Lime Juice
    Instructions:
    Combine over ice in a highball glass. (Courtesy of baronedrinks.com)
    http://www.barnonedrinks.com/drinks/m/miricle-drink-7150.html


    40. Rhubarb Lemonade
    2 stalk(s) (or 3) rhubarb, chopped
    1 1/2 cup(s) sugar
    5 cup(s) water
    1 1/2 pound(s) strawberries, stemmed and crushed
    1 cup(s) freshly squeezed lemon juice, about 5 large lemons
    Instructions:
    Bring rhubarb, sugar, and water to a boil. Remove from heat and stir in strawberries. Let steep and cool for 30 minutes. Strain mixture through a fine sieve, discarding solids, and refrigerate to chill. Stir in lemon juice. Serve rhubarb lemonade over ice. (Courtesy of Country Living)
    http://www.delish.com/recipefinder/rhubarb-lemonade-recipe-clv0510


    41. Orangatang
    1 cup(s) Cranberry Juice
    1 cup(s) Orange Juice
    Instructions:
    Blend together at medium speed until smooth. (Courtesy of baronedrinks.com)
    http://www.barnonedrinks.com/drinks/o/orangatang-3620.html


    42. Honey-Lemon Tea
    1/4 cup(s) dried chrysanthemums
    3 lemon slices
    4 cup(s) boiling water
    Honey to taste
    Instructions:
    Place chrysanthemums and lemon in a glass or ceramic pot. Add boiling water. Cover with a lid and let steep for 5 minutes. Stir in honey. Refrigerate until cold, about 3 1/2 hours. (It's not necessary to strain the tea.) (Courtesy of eatingwell.com)
    http://www.delish.com/recipefinder/honey-lemon-tea-recipe-ew0410


    43. Punchless Passion Colada
    1 oz. Coconut Cream
    1 tsp. Lime Juice
    1 oz. Passion Fruit Juice
    Instructions:
    Blend with a cup of crushed ice and serve in a collins glass. Garnish with a slice of lime and a cherry. (Courtesy of baronedrinks.com)
    http://www.barnonedrinks.com/drinks/p/punchless-passion-colada-3992.html


    44. Cranberry and Ginger Punch Tea
    1 piece(s) (3-inch) fresh ginger, thinly sliced
    3 cup(s) cranberry-raspberry juice
    1 1/2 teaspoon(s) lemon juice
    1 tablespoon(s) orange juice
    6 slice(s) lemon
    6 slice(s) orange
    Instructions:
    Make the ginger tea: Bring the ginger and 3 1/2 cups of water to boil in a medium saucepan. Remove from the heat and steep for 2 hours. (Tea can be made up to a day ahead and refrigerated.) Mix the punch: Strain the tea into a large pitcher and stir in the remaining ingredients. Serve over ice. (Courtesy of Country Living)
    http://www.delish.com/recipefinder/cranberry-ginger-tea-punch-3746


    45. Mango Lassi Smoothie
    1 cup(s) chopped peeled mango
    1/3 cup(s) peach sorbet
    1/2 cup(s) nonfat vanilla yogurt
    1/4 cup(s) orange juice
    1/8 teaspoon(s) orange-flower water, optional
    Instructions:
    Place ingredients in the order listed in a blender. Pulse twice to chop mango, stir well, then blend until smooth. Serve immediately. (Courtesy of eatingwell.com)
    http://www.delish.com/recipefinder/mango-lassi-smoothie-recipe-9843


    46. Trapper’s Special
    1 part(s) Coca Cola
    1 part(s) Ginger Ale
    1 part(s) Mountain Dew
    Cherries cleaned and halved
    Instructions:
    Mix the drink in a tall chilled glass. Add several cherries and serve. (Courtesy of baronedrinks.com)
    http://www.barnonedrinks.com/drinks/t/trappers-special-8944.html


    47. Mock Pink Lady
    1 1/2 c Milk
    2 tb Lemon juice
    1 tb Grenadine
    1 tb Sugar, granulated
    6 Ice cubes
    Instructions:
    Measure milk, lemon juice, grenadine, sugar and ice cubes into blender. Blend until ice is dissolved. Serve immediately. (Courtesy of garvick.com)
    http://www.garvick.com/annual/4th-july/recipes/drinks.htm#alcohol-free


    48. Acid Sweetener
    2 drop(s) Vanilla Extract
    1 1/2 tsp. Sugar
    1/2 Lime Juice 1/2 lime
    Water
    Instructions:
    Combine lime juice, sugar and vanilla extract in a glass. Fill with water. Stir well and serve cold. (Courtesy of baronedrinks.com)
    http://www.barnonedrinks.com/drinks/a/acid-sweeter-11031.html


    49. Cape Cod Sunrise
    3 oz. Cranberry Juice
    1 oz. Lime Juice (Fresh)
    Instructions:
    Shake with crushed ice and strain into a wine glass. Garnish with a slice of lime and a fresh mint sprig. (Courtesy of baronedrinks.com)
    http://www.barnonedrinks.com/drinks/c/cape-cod-sunrise-1113.html


    50. Watermelon Agua Fresca
    8 cup(s) cubed seeded watermelon (about 6 pounds with the rind), divided
    1 cup(s) water, divided
    1/3 cup(s) sugar, divided
    1/4 cup(s) fresh lime juice
    1 club soda, or seltzer water, well chilled
    Lime slices, for garnish
    Instructions:
    Combine half the watermelon, half the water and half the sugar in a blender; puree. Pour through a coarse strainer into a large container. Repeat with the remaining watermelon, water and sugar. Stir in lime juice. Refrigerate until well chilled, about 4 hours. To serve, stir in club soda (or seltzer) and garnish with lime. (Courtesy of eatingwell.com)
    http://www.delish.com/recipefinder/watermelon-agua-fresca-recipe-5567


    Visit Unknown Mami 
    for more Sunday's in My City

    Tuesday, October 26, 2010

    Tuesday's Around The World Lemonade Love


     California













    I have formed a new partnership with my very dear friend Carrie, and her daughter, Emily. 
     Visit us at Lemonaid 4 Autism
    We have stands at various places. 
    Including Grocery Stores, Community Centers, 
    Parks, and Churches. 
    We are not affiliated with any one group or one religion.
    We have had and will have stands 
    at Jewish Community Centers, 
    Scientology Centers, Mosques, etc.
     Autism crosses all religions and races.

    check out more Tuesday's Around the World at Communal Global.

    Monday, October 25, 2010

    Monday Mayhem Ticked Off


    Join Us for Monday Mayhem

    1. What ticked you off last week while you were on your way somewhere?

    I got a couple cancellations again from acquaint-a-friends (an acquaint-a-friend is someone who is more than an acquaintance but not quite yet a friend. yes, i just made the word up) about SAME DAY Autism Events. Now, I know we are all busy and its hard to have children and still honor commitments. However, I have people inboxing me on facebook, emailing me, and instant messaging me stating how fortunate we are to have all the events in our area we have. I totally agree. It's frustrating because eventually other groups and businesses are going to stop providing us with these luxuries if we don't show up! Duh!!! Out of our group their is only one mom that I understand for not being as active. Her daughter has more social issues and is low functioning. But even she took a morning off to attend the CPR event with me. I'm starting to think some of these moms are getting a bit spoiled by how much our City has to offer.
    “God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.” ~Reinhold Niebuhr


    2. Who in your house really ticked you off and how did they do it?


    I let a woman and her son stay with me a few days while they were waiting for their apartment to be ready for move in. It turned into 2 1/2 weeks!!! She borrowed money and didn't pay it back on payday. Which really screwed me up because we just make it by the end of the month. I should have never loaned money that I didn't have. She and her son by the 2nd week started being rude to us. What the heck lady??? Your staying in my house and you just change the channel while Iz is watching a football game?? I was really stressing on how to get her out. Her "so called" apartment never opened. Well last Friday after my workout I usually catch up on my t.v. shows. Come to find out she and her son had deleted and stopped MOST OF MY DVR SHOWS!!! Are you kidding me? I told her she had to move by Sunday evening. Moral of the story... you messed with my money, messed with my son's football game, stressed me out, but never ever mess with my DVR. Oh yeah, and don't take my kindness for a weakness.


    3. What politician or political event really ticked you off last week?

    Michelle Obama, 
    whom i liked better than most P.W.'s,
    but she pissed me off!! 
    Eh, what can you do... 
    you gotta vote for the best of the worst!!
    (see Question 6)


    4. Tell us what ticked you off on TV last week.

    I dunno my shows were deleted!!!!!
    Grrrrrrrrrrrrrr


    5. What ticked you off online last week?

    Blog Bullying

    People attacking, bullying, degrading, and disrespecting each other about Vaccine/No Vaccine cause of Autism. Yes it becomes obnoxious a million comments later. 



    6. What celebrity ticked you off last week and how?


    The Women who "claim" to care... The Women whom could have really made a true difference at the 2010 Womens Conference in Long Beach. 

    I would NEVER purchase tickets for the Womens Conference here in Long Beach. In a city that holds so many low-income and single parent families why wouldn't you provide a way for us to attend? Or at least a way to Volunteer for admission? IT'S OUR CITY YOUR IN!!! 

    I do appreciate the 5k walk for Alzheimers free event. But your here three days... are you kidding me... SHAME ON YOU OPRAH, MICHELLE OBAMA, AND MARIA SHRIVER, and any other Celebrities & Politicians that spoke at The Women's Conference. Now get out of our city and let us do what we do best... help each other

    I know I am going to piss a lot of people off but I really can't stand Oprah.

    7. Tell us something food related that really ticked you off.

    I gave the kid a bath. Got him dressed for school. Turned my head, turned back again and he was covered head to toe in Mrs. Butterworth's Syrup. I didn't even get a pic because the bus was coming in 20min. and he was DEFINITELY going to school after that stunt!!

    More Monday Mayhem Ticked Off Monday

    Sunday, October 24, 2010

    Sundays in My City Free Breakfast



    Unknown Mami


    There's a group in our City called  We Love Long Beach, They Rock!!
    Lately they have been Sponsoring a lot of Special Needs Events.
    So I decided I wanted to give back to them by Volunteering at one of their Events.
    Here are some shots of my day Volunteering for their 
    Free Breakfast for Downtown Residents.






















    This Weekend in My City
    There was also a 
    Sidewalk Chalk Art Contest...

     Click Here to View Photos:



    Friday, October 22, 2010

    Gifts that keep Giving!


    Let me start by saying nobody has asked me to do this. I am just completely in love with this company and its causes. There was a benefit for my son that The Autspot had that raised over 3,000 dollars for his Speech Therapy. This benefit is how I heard of One Hope Wine. So I can definitely tell you their money is going to real families in need now! 50% of their Profits go to Charity. Do you know anyone with Breast Cancer, in the Military, Autism, HIV/AIDS, concerned about our Planet, or a frequent patient at a Childrens Hospital? If you answered no... where do you live? I'd love to move into that bubble!! If so, here is the perfect Holiday Gift for you to give this year....

    (the following pictures are not my own, they are the property of OneHope Wine)

     They donate to all different Charities...
    not just one non-profit prospers!

    They have Different Gift Baskets too..


     Breast Cancer
     Our Troops
     Variety
      Autism
    Our Planet
    HIV/AIDS

    Of Course My Favorite:


    AUTISM! 
    Cabernet Sauvignon
    (cabernet sauvignon is my favorite wine!!)

    View and Order here:





    Smart and Trendy Moms

     

    .