New Goals

So, I realized the other day that a lot of my goals that I had made in the past are well...complete. Which, that's pretty awesome to say because that means I have accomplished a lot.

So, it's time to reassess my goals that I have made and make some new goals.

1. Complete a 5 K

This means I need to get to walking. As of tomorrow, I plan to sign up for my first 5 K, the Color Vibe. It is in Flint on September 21. If things go well, I would like to also sign up for the Color Me Rad 5K in October. Today I made the pact with myself to start walking. I hooked Tonks up to a leash and we started with a mile. I may had to carry her some because she was being stubborn but she got the feel for the leash eventually (and was enjoying the attention). I have mapped out several different routes in my neighborhood that will get me up to my goal.

2. Get my CPhT

Diplomat is awesome that they provide training, paid study hours and lots of refreshers on everything I'll need to take this test....and then pays for the test! Since Kevin will be going back to school in September, I will miss campus. So I decided this fall is time for me to get back to the books myself. My goal is to have taken my test (and passed) by November.

3. Get more involved in the Alumni Association

I emailed the head of the UM-Flint Alumni Association to show my interest and I plan on finding times to volunteer and attend events with the alumni association. I spent 5 years at UM-Flint and it'll be cool to help give other students a great time as well. Plus, there are some perks of being an alumni that I plan to cash in on.

4. Do Another "A Month of Giving."

Last year, it was SO much fun. This year is unlucky number 23. I have a new group of people to share my generosity with and I invite you to join me :)

5. Get a Promotion

This one may actually come with number 2. After getting my CPhT, I will be able to internally apply for many positions in Diplomat, and as a college grad, I am qualified for even more positions than my coworkers. This will take some work and determination, but I am ready!

Amelia's Super Amazing Easiest Peanut Butter Cheesecake You'll Ever Make

So, I have been known for this cheesecake over the years. For some people, "it has a special place in their heart." And I don't mind making it because it is the easiest thing you'll ever make! It also tastes like a Reese's Peanut Butter Cup. Don't trust me, make it yourself!

Easiest Peanut Butter Cheesecake Ever!

Ingredients
1 cup creamy peanut butter (choose your brand)
1 8oz package cream cheese (softened)
1 8oz tub of Cool Whip (defrosted)
3/4 cup sugar
1 bottle of chocolate ice cream shell
1 Oreo Crust

Directions
1. Place peanut butter, cream cheese and sugar in a bowl/blender (I am using a blender in this case because a piece of my mixer is missing)

2. Blend until well mixed.

3 Add 1/2 the tub of Cool whip and blend until mixed.

4. Pour mixture into oreo shell and smooth. Cover with thin layer of chocolate ice cream shell.

5. Place in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes (a great time to clean up your mess!) or until shell has thickened. Cover the top with the other half of Cool Whip until it covers the filling. Decorate the top of the Cool Whip with chocolate shell if you life.

6. Cool in refrigerator for several hours. If you are taking it to a party, freeze it over night so that by the time people are ready to dig it, it has thawed!

Substitutions!

If you are looking for a less sugary cake, substitute Cool Whip for sugar free (it's just as good), use a peanut butter with less sugar added and use an artificial sweetener (you would know better than me how much of your favored sweetener equals 3/4 cup of sugar). You can even substitute the chocolate shell with chocolate syurp (which I did for several years and it comes in sugar free as well!).