I've lived in Texas all of my life, where the cliché is "If you don't like the weather, wait a minute and it'll change." That's a true statement in this state where the weather can go from "Let's have a picnic" to "holy-shi*-we're-all-gonna-die" in about 30 seconds. Been there. Survived that. I'll 'splain.
Charlotte, Cole and I along with our friends the Ross family barely survived the infamous Mayfest storm in 1995. It still rates as the most expensive storm in Texas history ($1.1 billion in damage).
We barely made it to our Jeep Grand Cherokee before hail the size of canned hams pounded us for a solid 45 minutes. Oh yeah, and the tornado-force winds actually lifted our SUV off the ground. Good times.
That's why I was happy to come across the new Mobile warning Alert Messaging Application (MAMA) from the National Weather Service. The FREE service automatically sends weather alerts to your mobile device for the area(s) you select based on your Zip Code.
Here's how it works.
Text your Zip Code to 56149 and you'll receive a text message anytime the NWS issues a weather warning for that area.
Weather alerts include warnings for severe weather, winter weather, marine, coastal and tropical weather, fire-related weather conditions and more. When you text 56149, you'll receive a text reply telling you that you've subscribed to the program. That's all there is to it.
The MAMA Service is available on just about every carrier and - while it is free - standard messaging rates will apply based on your cell plan.
I have a LOT of apps on my phone, but this is one I know I'll never regret. With enough notice, I'll have time to grab a bottle of strawberry infused jalapeno tequila or Hill Family Estates Wine before Charlotte and I seek shelter under our staircase.
Experience has taught me that if you're gonna ride one of these out, you might as well be comfortable.
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Prepare your own Mexican quick fix with this Chipotle-inspired bowl. Carbs are moderated by filling the bowl with beans, extra veggies and chicken. No need for rice, since the beans count as carbs.
Tips:
If you love tomatoes, increase the quantity to 1/2 cup, but note that the carbohydrates will also increase.
If preparing this recipe for one person, cut all of the ingredients in half. Or simply prepare the full recipe up to the end of step 2 and store leftover chicken and vegetable-bean mixture in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave on High for 1 to 2 minutes, or until heated through, and continue with step 3.
Health Bite: The iron, calcium, magnesium, manganese, copper and zinc in black beans help to keep bones strong and healthy.
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