Obsession with pulled pork

Actually, I can't remember how my obsession with pulled pork started. I believe it may have been whilst watching TopChef Masters. If you haven't seen any episodes, I seriously recommend it. It is addictive.

Anyways, I'd been searching for a great recipe. At last the last one I tried from the Food Network was to may specifics. Though it did turn out a little watery. Never mind that. I tweaked it the next time I made it and finally I have it quite down pat.

So here is the original recipe http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchens/barbecue-pulled-pork.html

I followed the slow cooker version, only I marinated the meat in the fridge using the whole marinade instead of halving it.

Pork in its juicy marinade

Finished product in the slow cooker. Too watery (for me anyways)

Fish out the meat onto a separate plate

Transfer the liquid into a saucepan and bring to boil
Simmer for about 40mins or so till the liquid has reduced 

Add the reserved pork and stir, stir, stir!

The meat will break and you will be left with some serious pulled pork goodness!

I usually serve with coleslaw and cornbread. Or sweet potato chips.

Enjoy! Nom. Nom. Nom!

Assisting independence

I don't know about you but my toddler is at a stage where he is wanting to "do myself", or when I go to help without asking, well mayhem ensues. And that is an extreme understatement.

Other times, it takes forever to do anything! From putting on shoes, convincing him to change into clean clothes etc...

Sometimes I'm not too good in keeping routine everyday. Which is strange as my job is all about keeping routine. So I went searching... on Pinterest that is. I found some great routine/chore charts for children, a little older than my mister but nonetheless great.

One stood out in particular from http://www.mynameissnickerdoodle.com/2012/09/chore-chart-tutorial.html

I adapted it to my mister's routine. Well shall I say things I'd like him to do in the near future without me asking (!)

And here it is...
I went old school ruling, cutting, pasting and I couldn't find stick on magnet things which did drive me a little nuts....

Here it is in all it's glory - with the unsightly blu-tack!

As the mister completes his routine, he can close each flap. Once the row is closed, he can receive a reward!

Control freak...Shut down!

Some things you just can't control.
I like having things under control..
I have learnt and am learning to "go with the flow".
I am the first to admit that "go with the flow" has never till very recently been in my vocabulary.

Saturday afternoon the toddler announced he will use his potty.
I've tried toilet training a few times.... obviously didn't eventuate to anything...

So first day today at 'school' in undies - just 2 accidents.

Just like that.

I'm off to do something I can control... buying more undies. I was totally underprepared.
(hahaha)

Silence

Every mum would tell you that silence is heaven. In those 'silent' moments we sit down with a cuppa and sip it oh so slowly without being disturbed...

NOT!!

Exhibit A:
No little person coming to check "what doing, mum?" whilst getting ready for the day in the bathroom.

I went to investigate as the house was just too quiet. Eerily so..

He was squeezing the entire contents of Savlon to put on his "ouchies".
His ouchies consist of 2 small mosquito bites...