reVision magazine - October 2015

encourage. empower. inspire.

Leather Accents, Artistic Life Small business commands new attention a reVision publication

Finding Joy In Giving Back Live United campaign led by heart for community simplifying IT

October 2015

From the editor

rePeatedly reVised It’s that time of year when we start salivating over all things pumpkin!

I love the change in seasons.

Humid air makes way for crisp fall breezes and fall colors start to creep into our day-to-day lives.

October 2015 Pg 4 : Feature woman: Leather Looks Good

Pg 8: Money Matters Pg 9: Fashion

Pg 11: Cover feature: United for the Joy of Giving Back

Pg 14: Faith Pg 17: Heatlhy living Pg 20: DIY Pg 25: Food

Autumn takes me back to when I was a kid. The brisk air leaves me feeling invigorated — like a shot of anti-aging serum for the soul.

That’s why this issue is devoted to helping you rediscover the kid inside you! Go ahead… jump into a pile of leaves, eat a few s’mores, snack on some candy corn.

It’s easy to get wrapped up in our to-do lists and holiday preparations, but in the midst of “doing” life, don’t forget to live life!

Take time to give back to those around you, explore a new hobby, strike a chord with a long-forgotten talent or let your hair down and wear a funky outfit.

Life isn’t worth much if all we have to show for it in the end is our full day planners and carefully planned agendas. Sometimes it is equally important to let go and have a life full of kid-sized imagination, dreams and ambitions.

How about dressing up as your favorite superhero for Halloween, or spending some time in a fort made of blankets, or how about staying up all night to watch your favorite movies?

Loving life can take on any shape or color… there’s no limit!

You can create a month of fun that will make your kiddos wonder, “what’s happened to Mom?” Go ahead… make them ask, better yet… make them laugh!

Christie Browning —Editor, Speaker, Entrepreneur, Success Coach On the cover: Shawn Ellis is the current co-chair for Whitley County’s United Way fundraising campaign. The nonprofit serves several other nonprofits and community organizations in the area with the motto, “Live United.”

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Feature

Mom turns home-based craft into artistic business with flair

By Christie Browning

Somewhere between Girl Scout meetings, school pick-up lines, and a few dozen loads of laundry, Tanya Freedman of Fort Wayne, launched a unique business turning leather into artistic accessories.

“It wasn’t really anything I was looking for,” she says nonchalantly. “I happened to have a conversation with someone who sold the carving tools.

The more questions I asked, the more I was intrigued. I thought I would give it a try and see what I could do.”

Tanya’s leap of artistic faith launched T&J Leather Accents (https://www.etsy.com/shop/TandJLeatherAccents) and in a short time, her leather creations were gaining attention. Her scarf cuff makes for a very creative accessory, not often seen worn by the masses.

“The cuff is unique and I like that it is something not everyone else is going to have. Those one-of-a-kind looks are great and I find that women especially like wearing something that is just for them,” says Tanya.

“Now that we are getting into the perfect season for scarves, the cuffs add that extra touch to complete your fall look.”

In its product line, T&J Leather Accents showcases leather necklaces, bracelets and earrings. But it was Tanya’s purse design, along with her scarf cuffs, that gained the attention of an art show in Indiana. Through-

out the month of September, three of Tanya’s leather pieces were featured in Nickel Plate Arts “The Great Abstract: Let art give you a break from reality,” and showcased at the Judge Stone House Gallery in Noblesville, Indiana.

“I took a chance that I could take what I do with leather and make it abstract,” Tanya says. “When I found out my pieces were ac-

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Pictured above are Tanya’s three pieces showcased in a gallery event in Noblesville, Indiana in September. From left: “Kaleidoscope”, “Spirit” and “Solitaire.” T&J Leather Accents can be found online at https://www.etsy.com/shop/ TandJLeatherAccents.

cepted in the show, I was beyond excited.”

In the gallery, Tanya’s leather purse piece, entitled “Spirit,” was displayed upfront as visitors came into the gallery. Her two scarf cuffs were labeled “Kaleidoscope” and “Solitaire.”

“It was fun to see my purse as the first view when I walked into the gallery. Being at the opening was great. I enjoyed getting to see friends and family who supported my work,” says Tanya as she remembers her gallery experience. “Right when I was going to leave, someone was looking at my purse and called me out as the artist. We had a nice chat and then she bought it. It was so exciting that someone else loves that purse as much as I do.”

Tanya is a busy mom and volunteers for several organizations, as well as runs two other direct-sales businesses.

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“It seems a bit crazy to have added something to my plate, but when I

am working with leather and carving new pieces, it is a bit of an artistic release. It’s where my creative juices flow. Crafting leather accessories has become my outlet and my way of expression.”

To see more of T&J Leather Accents’ creations, visit online at https://www.etsy.com/shop/ TandJLeatherAccents. You can also

follow T&J Leather Accents on Facebook (www.facebook.com/ TandJLeatherAccents) and Instagram (tandjleatheraccents).

Looking for a way to promote your business in a new and refreshing way? Torn between print ads and digital marketing?

Advertise in reVision magazine where the content is always encouraging, empowering and inspiring.

Ad pricing start as low as $25 and include both our print publication and free-to-read online magazine!

Email christiebrowning@outlook.com for more information.

Money Matters

for giving

By Shannon Simmons Are you ready? Emotionally? Physically? Mentally? Financially? I can’t really help you with the first three except that I know when the finances are covered, it does help with the emotional and mental aspects of the holidays... and the physical, too. As of this writing, you have exactly 98 days till Christmas.

et. You will be approached by many organizations in December wanting your year-end gifts. Having a budget will help you know how much you can give to each and encourage you to prioritize your donations.

Do you know how much you’re going to spend on charity, gifts, food, events, travel? Is there anything else for which you need to budget?

Have you saved throughout the year for the holidays? If so, do you have enough to cover your budget? If not, you have 98 days to either save more or revise your budget.

Those are the five major categories for my family, but yours For those of you who get paid every two weeks, you have may be different. Each category should have its own budg seven paychecks before Christmas. Divide the amount you need by seven. Can you save that much between now and then? If not, what can you cut for this year?

Now, we can also think ahead to next year. Next year, we’ll start this saving in January. To set this up, divide your ideal Christmas budget by 12. Can you save that much each month? It probably seems easier than saving over the next 98 days.

If you haven’t started at all for this year. That’s great!

Go open a separate checking account and have an automatic transfer from your main checking account to your Christmas account each time you get a pay check. Twenty dollars each paycheck, for those of you who receive a weekly paycheck, amounts to just over $1,000. Find somewhere to cut $20 each week so you can emotionally, mentally and physically enjoy Christmas more next year.

Get a debit card to go with this new checking account, but

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only carry it when you know you’ll be Christmas shopping. This will force you to think ahead and think about your purchases. You can even use it to purchase online if you prefer to shop that way.

What about your business? Is your business prepared to give?

I have a client who was recently able to establish a giving fund. Five percent of every sale goes into a separate account and that money is saved for charitable giving. When they are approached for donations at Christmas for their favorite charity, are in the middle of a slow season when an employee is in special need or when an illness strikes, they can look at their account to determine how much to give.

Giving helps us feel better about ourselves, but only if we’re prepared financially to do it. Start now and let your pennies add up so every holiday season is more enjoyable and you can feel great about giving in your community.

Originally from Dayton, Ohio, Shannon has been a wife to Jeremy for 13 years and is “mom” to two children, Peyton, 10, and Layla, 8. She started her business, Netbooks Accounting Services, in October 2008 and is fueled by taxes, accounting and math. Find Netbooks Accounting Services online at http://www.netbooksaccounting.com.

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Fashion Forward

Finding your inner FASHION kiddo

by Kennedy Slavicek

We’re squealing over fall pigtails When it comes to embracing your inner kid, what’s more fitting than pigtails and overalls?! Pigtails is a great hairstyle (especially for short hair) because it looks cute with every outfit. I wear my hair like this at least three times a week.

Dust off the denim Denim overalls are always a classic look throughout the year. From shortalls in the summer, overall dresses in the spring, and full length overalls in the fall and winter, you can’t go wrong with them! Throw on a distressed T -shirt and Converse sneakers to give it a causal look or pair it with a fitted, striped tee and pumps for the chic take on the style. Overalls certainly never go out of style. I’ve been wearing them since I was in elementary school! Wear them to the grocery store or even out to dinner with friends. They are casual, comfy, and you will NOT be able to live without them. Embrace you inner kid and go buy a pair of overalls!

Kennedy Slavicek is reVision magazine’s fashion contributor. You can learn more about Kennedy by visiting her at her online clothing store, kennedynoellescloset.com and her blog, kennedynoelle.com .

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Community Feature



for the joy of

 

By Christie Browning If you were to look up “philanthropic” in the dictionary, it is possible that Shawn Ellis’ photo would be seen attached to the definition.

Ellis is the executive director for a county-wide nonprofit serving pregnant women, children and families.

B.A.B.E. of Whitley County, Indiana, impacts moms and babies for healthy living in all aspects.

But Shawn is also a co-chair for Whitley County’s United Way annual fundraising campaign. She is joined by local business leader David Smith of Star Financial Bank, with locations in Northeastern Indiana.

“We are excited to have both David and Shawn leading our campaign this year,” said United Way of Whitley County Executive Director Cindy Baker. “They both know first-hand the impact the United Way has on Whitley County. Their passion for what we can do to make a difference here is contagious.”

Whitley County’s fundraising campaign will raise funds to be dispersed to other Whitley County non-

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profits and local organizations. Through donations collected from corporations, small businesses, civic groups and residents, the campaign hopes to raise $190,000.

In 2016, applications will be submitted for grant dollars awarded by the United Way through a selection and interview process. The funds raised during the campaign are used to fund those grants.

Feeling the impact of those grant dollars is Shawn.

“When people give to United Way, they aren’t just supporting a program, but the people those programs serve,” Shawn says. “When you give, even the smallest donation, you are giving to support the lives changed by the work done through so many nonprofit groups.

We are all quick to say how we’d like to better our community. This is it. This is how we stretch dollars across the county to make the greatest difference.”

Those that choose to give to the United Way of Whitley County, may feel as if their financial support is called on once a year during the campaign period.

However, Shawn knows first-hand that the support is

felt throughout the year.

“I want those that give to know the impact their dollars have. Not just by my organization, but by the whole county. Each dollar is grown and enhanced to create a ripple effect that lasts.”

Community members who know Shawn might wonder why she would choose to advocate for another nonprofit when she could devote her voice for B.A.B.E. However, she doesn’t see it as a comDavid Smith (left) and Shawn Ellis are the co-chairs for the United Way of Whitley County’s anpetition, but as a way to nual fundraising campaign. directly benefit the county as a whole. you not cook at home? I don’t think so. What you do “I don’t benefit if B.A.B.E. is successful and other nonfor a living is different than what you do for the comprofits aren’t,” she said. “The nonprofits in our community. It just so happens I do both in the nonprofit munity work together to support each other and to fill world.” a variety of needs. So while B.A.B.E. might be able to Getting to share the United Way’s impact and purpose create healthier families, it doesn’t do any good if they is Shawn’s favorite part of the campaign. She said edugo off to school and have no after-school support like cating people on the far-reaching benefits of the orwhat they can get at The Center for Whitley County ganization is rewarding.

Youth. Each nonprofit, supported and funded through the United Way, are able to focus on serving. We all David, who serves at the second part of this dynamic benefit from each dollar raised. On my own, I can’t duo, is the market president for Star Financial Bank, raise the kind of money the United Way can. I am and no stranger to leading a campaign. This is his secvery grateful for the grants we receive and know what ond time as a chairperson and his second term as a a real difference it makes.” board member.

Shawn says she considers a privilege to represent the United Way and its efforts “When I look at it, I guess I feel like it’s all our jobs to do something to give back to our community. Just because I work for a nonprofit doesn’t absolve me of that responsibility. If you worked as a cook or chef, would

“I choose to get involved and stay involved with the United Way because it assesses the needs in Whitley County in a unique way,” said David. “It gathers resources to support organizations throughout our county. For those who want to be philanthropic, the United Way helps to distribute funds where it is needed most. It provides a conduit for peo-

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ple to give and do so effectively.”

walk past my doors needing the very help I could provide? We have to give to change lives. We need a way David’s perspective as a business leader allows him to to dole out the support and the help where it’s needed speak to other business owners that exist in Whitley most. The United Way does just that. It takes my County, and who might consider financially supporting efforts and multiplies it throughout the county, ensurthe campaign. ing the dollars work at their best.”

“I think we have a responsibility to understand the For more information on supporting the United Way need in our community and do something about it,” of Whitley County, visit said Smith. “What does it say about me if I sit in my www.unitedwaywhitleycounty.org or call 260-244corner office in downtown Columbia City while people 6454.

Pictured are area representatives of several organizations served by Whitley County’s United Way.

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Faith

Lessons from

War Room

By Toni Ryan Seeing this movie once was not enough. I had to see it a second time, and would gladly pay for another ticket at the theater again. Purchasing the DVD when it comes out is a must. Yes, it is that good!

There are many movies I've enjoyed and watched repeatedly over the years. Sleepless In Seattle comes to mind as does The Rose, You've Got Mail, A Star Is Born and many others. Each of these movies I've seen many times for the entertainment value and overall theme.

War Room, however, has had a different impact on me.

It’s a movie with a message. A message of the power of prayer and the power of love. And, I believe, a message directly from God. Both times I saw War Room it was all I could do to keep from weeping during several scenes. At the end my tears just flowed, unabashedly, without a way to stop them. Many walked out of the theater in tears while others left as if they'd been to any other movie.

Why some were moved to tears and some were not perplexes an emotional person like me. On the other hand, I also know God connects with us in many different ways. He's wonderful like that. He speaks to us in ways we sometimes don't expect. He spoke to me through War Room.

We are in the middle of a War Good versus evil has always been part of life. Maybe it's just me, but it seems evil is getting worse and worse, and good is seen less and less.

ing sure our hearts are prepared more so than our pantries for doomsday. One of the reasons for my tears after seeing War Room was of shame. Have I been on my knees for our messed up country lately?

Have I gone before the Lord with prayers for revival in this land? A little, yes, but not nearly as much as I should. God is still in control, but I believe He's waiting to hear from us.

Just because we call ourselves Christians, doesn't mean a hill of beans unless we are actively praying for our family, friends and those the Lord has called us to minister to. I don't mean the kind of little prayer thrown up now and then so we can feel like we've prayed. I mean actual, on our knees, sincere from every ounce of our being, prayers. We can and must do better! Will you join me?

If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.

2 Chronicles 7:14 NIV

In my article, Doomsday Preparation, I spoke of mak-

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throughout the church.

Everyone would have someone to encourage and pray for them as well as be accountable to. And, in turn, we would do the same for someone else. Knowing we have someone in our corner, who will also poke us in the nose if we need it, is so valuable to the growth of the kingdom of God.

Everyone needs a “Miss Clara” (or “Mr. Clara” if the case may be) in their life I know I need a “Miss Clara” and will pray daily for God to bring me mine until she shows up. I've been blessed to be a “Miss Clara” to a few along my journey, but have never really had one for myself. It's taken me a long time to realize just how much I need a “Miss Clara.” It seems odd to confess that here, but I suppose I needed to.

Miss Clara didn't give Elizabeth a bunch of platitudes to make her feel better in her circumstances. Instead, she hit her right between the eyes by showing her she wasn't helping the situation with her thoughts or actions. We all need that now and then. When we can't see the truth, enough to get out of God's way, we need someone willing to put a mirror in front of us because they care enough to do so.

We also need someone a bit more mature in Christ to keep pointing us to Him when we get complacent.

Yes, everyone needs a “Miss Clara.”

Remember those who led you, who spoke the word of God to you; and considering the result of their conduct, imitate their faith.

Hebrews 13:7

We are all called to be a “Miss Clara” for someone else One of the most meaningful sermons from my favorite pastor, Kevin Odor, was titled “No One Stands Alone.”

He, along with the rest of the staff, decided to set the example for the rest of us who were volunteering

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New to faith? Think you aren't equipped to be a “Miss Clara?” Not true. I guarantee, if you ask God to bring you someone younger in faith than you, who needs encouragement and a prayer partner, He will. It doesn't matter how much you know about the Bible, it matters only that you have asked Jesus to be the Lord of your life. Someone needs you to let them know how much Jesus loves them too.

Iron sharpens iron, So one man sharpens another Proverbs 27:17

Women want and need their men to be the spiritual leader of the home In the movie, Elizabeth and Tony are more like prize fighters at opposite corners of the ring. Tony is leading the family, but not in ways that make God or his wife happy. Things begin to change for the better when Tony is faced with the reality of his poor choices and what they've done to his family.

Elizabeth, like most women, wanted to be proud of the way her man led their family, not ashamed and discouraged. Though she had to take the spiritual leadership role initially, she gladly gave that roll over to Tony when he was ready and willing.

One of the best lines in the movie was when Elizabeth said to Tony, “I'd rather have a man chasing Jesus than a house full of stuff.” Amen and amen!!

A married woman once told me she would commit to prayer and church as soon as her husband did. She felt it was his responsibility to lead her in that direction.

Though I completely understood her dismay at her husband's lack of spiritual leadership, I reminded her that she and she alone was responsible for the rela-

tionship she developed with God. If she truly had dreams, Jesus will always hold the top spot in my heart. asked Jesus to be the Lord of her life, it was disrespect- Ask Him to take that place in yours too. I promise, it ful to put Him off while waiting for her husband to fol- will make all the difference in the world! low along.

Sometimes we lead, sometimes we follow. Either way, we follow Jesus. And that, my friends, is a very good Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty thing. Amen?! hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.

A word to single mom's. Do not be discouraged. You 1 Peter 5:6-7 are absolutely the spiritual leader of your home. It's a high honor to lead another to a closer relationship Father God, we come humbly before You and ask Your with Jesus. Especially our children. hand to be on this land. We pray for revival in our country, our homes and our hearts. Forgive our complacency I am proud to say I was the spiritual leader of my home and lack of spiritual courage. Please bring a Miss Clara while raising my son as a single mother. Some of the to those of us who need one and help us to be a Miss best times of my life were during those years.

Clara to those who need us. Thank You for Your love God was and always will be my leader in all things. He and grace. In the matchless name of Jesus, amen. is yours too.

Even though I am now married to the man of my Praying with and for you.

Toni Ryan is a mom, a Christian, and business woman with a heart to write and speak about the love of God. Insurance agent by day, speaker and writer by night, Toni has a deep connection to her faith and shares her writing online at In His Em-

brace (www.inhisembrace.com)

Healthy Living

Hello, Healthy Momma

By Kim Waggoner

Hey there Momma!

I have been looking forward to talking to you. Are you a stay–at-home mom, working mom or a little of both? Do you find yourself being pulled in all different directions? Are you juggling a lot of roles? From multitasking between work, homework, sports activities, scheduling appointments and cleaning the house, do you feel like you aren’t ever fully engaged or doing a good job at any of it because your mind is always floating around bouncing to the next thing you have to do?

You want to nurture your children, feed them healthy foods, tell them to make good choices, be active and involved in their communities. You want your kids to have peace and joy in their life. These are the things you are telling them. Let’s face it though, you are tired and stressed. You put yourself last. If you want to raise healthy and happy kids then it must start with you.

Mom’s especially seem to invest all their time, energy and resources into their families, which leaves them neglecting themselves. Please! Begin to take care of youself first! Have you ever flown in an airplane? When the stewardess is giving out instructions on what to do in an emergency, she tells you to put your oxygen mask on first and then help your child put on theirs. There is a reason for that. If you don’t have oxygen, you are not much help to those around you.

So let’s talk. What things do you need to do to begin to take care of you?

Eat a healthy diet. No skipping meals, or eating junk.

Choose fruits veggies, lean proteins. Fuel your body instead of feeding your stress.

Exercise. I didn’t say you had to join a gym or run a marathon. I want you to get your body moving. Walk, swim or do yoga.

Just move, stretch, sweat. Exercise is a huge stress relief, releases

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toxins and keeps you young and fit to chase after those kids. Exercise is a great excuse to connect with your kids. Play with them. Invite them in on the action. As you get active they will too.

Sleep. What’s that, right? Focus on seven-to-eight hours. Consistently. Also be consistent about the times you go to bed and when you get up in the morning.

This is a huge help for that rhythmic clock. Sleep in the dark. No light from your cell phone, night light or TV. When there is less light your brain will tell your body to release melatonin which makes you drowsy, producing a more restful sleep.

Decrease your stress. Bubble baths, a massage, quiet times to read, walks with friends, delegate chores to your kids. I am not talking a foreign language here, really. Make a date with yourself, even if just one time per week. Choose an activity that makes you feel special and pampered.

Connect with other moms. Connect and share your struggles, triumphs, what is working for you and what is not. Don’t we moms tend to have this image we are trying to portray? Like we have this whole Super Mom thing figured out. Aren’t we mortified that another mom

Kim Waggoner is a nurse, mom, health and wellness coach and Shaklee representative. Follow Kim online at www.kimwaggoner.com

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DIY

Ya gotta admit…besides all the pumpkins and costumes, the other star of Halloween is our home’s front door. After all, that’s what’s being knocked on all night by trick or treaters, eagerly awaiting your appearance with candy bowl in hand, right? Why not give them something to admire while they stand there holding out their plastic pumpkin pails and pillow cases? They’ll know you mean business with this three-eyed monster, and you’ll save money creating it by recycling your grocery bags (overall this cost about $7 to make!). It’s a what I call a DIY trick and treat!

MAKE YOUR OWN DOOR MONSTER Here’s what you’ll need for your project: 

6 or more paper bags



Scissors



Measuring tape or yard stick

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Painters or packing tape

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Pencil or Sharpie

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Dessert paper plates

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Black and green sparkle paper



Elmer’s Glue

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Small finishing nails or removable mounting putty

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HERE’S WHAT YOU DO:

1.

Measure the dimensions of your front door: using your tape measure, find the length and width of your CLOSED front door and write it down. Note: be sure to measure the part of your door that appears when closed. The paper will last longer if it isn’t being creased and mashed by the frame.

2. 2. Remove handles and open bag: after carefully detaching the handles (if yours have them), start with the opening of the bag and start opening the bag at the seams. Note:the first one is a little tricky, just keep at it and follow the natural lines of the seams… seriously…it’ll work!

3. Remove the rough edge: cut off the bottom edge of the bag. You can

then measure the width and length to see how much paper you have to work with per bag.

4. 4. Measure length and tape bags together: knowing the length of your door, pull out your tape measure, then tape your bags together. The trick is to get to the last bag and tape it in place so that it measures exactly the length you need.

5. Measure width, then draw & cut along cutting line: knowing the length of your door, measure and mark the cutting line onto your taped bags, then cut.

6. Place where you want the eyes: now that you have your paper bag perfectly custom sized, turn your plates upside-down, then place your eyes (paper plates) where you’d like them to go on your paper

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bag. Note: there are no rules here…if you want 1 or 4 eyes…that’s up to you!

7. Measure the inside height and width of the eye balls: to achieve a “peek-a-boo” affect, be sure to measure about 1/4″ inside the edge on the top and bottom of the plates (measure 1/4″ inside the outer edges of the two outside plates as well). Then, using these dimensions, mark an “x” on your paper bag for the center top and bottom measurements, as well as an “x” for both sides.

8. Sketch peek-through hole for eyes then cut out: draw an arched line from “x” to “x”, creating an oval for the “peek-a-boo” hole, then cut.

9. Glue edge of paper plate: glue along the plates highest edge, then turn it over and place onto black card stock paper.

10. Measure, then peel and stick sparkle paper eyes on to paper plates: use anything close to the size eyes you want for your monster. The peel and stick sparkle paper makes it easy to place the iris and pupil anywhere you wish!

11. Taper black paper onto paper bag monster: position the eyes where you want them to show through the “peek-a-boo” hole, then tape it into place.

12. Measure and cut out mouth: if you have a colored door, cutting out your mouth will have a fun effect. Note: if you have a white door, you may want to just draw a mouth or add colored paper to the backside like you did with the “peek-a-boo” hole.

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13. Cut out teeth, glue and/or tape into place: cut out any size and number you wish to adhere to the monster. You can first glue it to the back of the paper bag, but for sure tape it to make sure they stay in place. Note: be creative and shape your teeth however you wish. Note: pointy teeth are more scary, where rounder teeth are more cute.

14. Nail or tape onto door: adhere your finished monster to your door.

Be sure to cut out holes for the deadbolt lock and door knob. Optional: add cobwebs for a more scary/dramatic look…boo!

Check out more do-it-yourself Halloween projects at www.tosimplyinspire.com

Food

Real Food

by Cyndi Turnpaugh Typically in my home my children do the cooking. When someone can't cook for whatever reason, I'm the stand in. Recently, after a long day, it suddenly became my turn to cook. I wanted ...no needed... something fast and easy with little-to-no clean up. I ended up making a BBQ chicken dish, which took about 20 minutes from start to finish. Not including eating time!

Let me show you how I make this meal... dare I say, a fast food meal?!?!

First, I had leftover chicken to use. Second, my family will eat most anything if it contains pineapple so I threw this easy dish together and we had a winner!!

BBQ Chicken and Rice 2 tbs walnut oil 1 lb cooked, cubed, chicken (I always use leftover) 1 bottle BBQ sauce (preferably organic, even better... make your own) 1 can pineapple with juice 1 green pepper, diced 1 red pepper, diced 1 onion, diced 2 garlic cloves, minced 2 cups cooked white rice (I like the Lundberg Basmati) Dice all your veggies. Rest the side of a large knife on your garlic cloves and bring your hand down fast and hard to bust it open. Remove the skin from your now minced cloves.

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As you heat up the oil in a large skillet over medium heat clean up the cutting board, knives and anything you are finished with.

Add onion to your skillet and cook until desired done-ness while you get plates and forks out. Add the remaining ingredients, stir and cook until heated through. It took about 10 minutes to get it good and hot. When it is heated, divide the food onto plates then wash the skillet as you call for everyone to "come and get it!"

By the time we finished eating, the skillet was dry, ready to be put away and there were only plates and forks to wash. In our house, we all wash our own plates and silverware. I am a firm believer in not doing for my children what they can do for themselves. It instills confidence and a sense of being capable. ...Cyndi said... this was the best kind of fast food meal!

Cyndi Turnpaugh is passionate about sharing helpful advice and information on a variety of topics. Follow her online at www.cyndisaid.blogspot.com.

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