Here we go! Last one of 2011! It's not to late to join in on the fun, friends. It's quick and (relatively) painless.
1. What's the oldest piece of clothing in your closet?
Well, I have a piece of lingerie from our wedding night...stashed in a back dark corner somewhere in there. Otherwise, the closet has had some good purges since moving into it a few years ago. I don't know why I keep that article of clothing....my mind is a strange sort of pack rat.
2. How many random blog readers have you met?
Zero! Most of my readers are already my friends. There were a few acquaintances that I've met recently that have read the blog, and therefore know a lot about me....which meant we were fast friends, and I had a LOT to catch up on in order to get to know them better.
Otherwise, there's a select few that I've grown close enough to to befriend on facebook. And knowing them better makes me love them all the more! And perhaps obtain a puppy. (long story)
3. Do you let your kids stay up till midnight on New Years Eve? (Or, if you don't have kiddos yet, did you get to stay up until midnight as a child?)
We have plans to have family fun on NYE...but, no the kids won't be staying up until midnight. Not only are we not fans of that at all, they'd NEVER make it.
I tried a few times as a child to stay up until midnight....never made it until I turned about 18.
4. What are the gas prices where you live?
Yesterday they were $3.32.
Ten days ago they were $2.99.
Sheesh.
5. What is one resolution that you know you should do but are too afraid to try?
I'm not too sure on that one. I've never really let fear control my movements or decisions. Wait...I have in the past....and perhaps I let fear subconsciously control some actions, but nothing like "I should do that, but I'm afraid....."
Sky diving....that could fit under this category.
Always wanted to try it.
Friday, December 30, 2011
Monday, December 26, 2011
The unwelcome guest
Something moved in on my little guy.
An unwelcome guest.
Just what we DIDN'T want for Christmas...
I'm heading into the trenches for the next few days....
An unwelcome guest.
Just what we DIDN'T want for Christmas...
I'm heading into the trenches for the next few days....
...a regular post will be forthcoming when we resurface.
Catch you on the flip side.
(what movie?)
Friday, December 23, 2011
Thursday, December 22, 2011
Oh so selfish
I'm shopping for Christmas presents.
Only, I'm done shopping for Christmas presents.
I've been done since before A's birthday (2 weeks ago).
And yet, I still go shopping.
And I bought myself a sweater.
And I bought myself some earrings.
And I bought myself a new (SMALLER!!!!) pair of jeans.
The only thing that redeemed me is that I also bought some cough drops for A who is fighting a bit of a head cold.
Whew....so glad for those cough drops....otherwise I'd think myself oh so selfish. ;)
Only, I'm done shopping for Christmas presents.
I've been done since before A's birthday (2 weeks ago).
And yet, I still go shopping.
And I bought myself a sweater.
And I bought myself some earrings.
And I bought myself a new (SMALLER!!!!) pair of jeans.
The only thing that redeemed me is that I also bought some cough drops for A who is fighting a bit of a head cold.
Whew....so glad for those cough drops....otherwise I'd think myself oh so selfish. ;)
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Tuesday Miscellany
It's the Tuesday before Christmas...
I have nothing on my mind, and I have everything on my mind (and to do list) at the same time.
Which means there's no room left in this brain of mine to compose a coordinating blog post.
Miscellany seems to fit the bill of my mind....so, we'll go with that.
1. I have come to a point in my life that I'm realizing the friends I've let go of weren't really the greatest friends to begin with. The friends I have in my life now are the ones I want there. They support me, pray for me, give great hugs, and are a boatload of fun to hang out with. I dig them.
2. Wipeout is, by far, one of my favorite game shows. They pull all these super annoying people on there....(you know, the kind of people you'd slap across the face if you met in real life?) and they hit them and make them run into large objects at full speed.
3. German web sites are hard to navigate when you don't sprekense duetsch.
4. Friends are great for texting you phrases like "we're getting our BOOTIES on the treadmill next week! Get ready!" Again...see #1.
5. Having a finite budget for Christmas....in a separate bank account....has worked wonders in keeping me withIN the budget.
6. Finger Jello takes longer than I thought to set up.
7. Kids getting sick right before the holidays clearly sucks. Thank goodness for vitamins and expectorant!
8. Gluten free chex mix rocks. And puppy chow. Mmmmm.
9. My husband and I can throw a mean Christmas party. And our pastor can mix a mean (and sneaky!) sangria.
10. I'm so grateful for grandparents who are willing and able to take the boys. I get a small break (to enjoy silence) and the boys make priceless memories.
I have nothing on my mind, and I have everything on my mind (and to do list) at the same time.
Which means there's no room left in this brain of mine to compose a coordinating blog post.
Miscellany seems to fit the bill of my mind....so, we'll go with that.
1. I have come to a point in my life that I'm realizing the friends I've let go of weren't really the greatest friends to begin with. The friends I have in my life now are the ones I want there. They support me, pray for me, give great hugs, and are a boatload of fun to hang out with. I dig them.
2. Wipeout is, by far, one of my favorite game shows. They pull all these super annoying people on there....(you know, the kind of people you'd slap across the face if you met in real life?) and they hit them and make them run into large objects at full speed.
3. German web sites are hard to navigate when you don't sprekense duetsch.
4. Friends are great for texting you phrases like "we're getting our BOOTIES on the treadmill next week! Get ready!" Again...see #1.
5. Having a finite budget for Christmas....in a separate bank account....has worked wonders in keeping me withIN the budget.
6. Finger Jello takes longer than I thought to set up.
7. Kids getting sick right before the holidays clearly sucks. Thank goodness for vitamins and expectorant!
8. Gluten free chex mix rocks. And puppy chow. Mmmmm.
9. My husband and I can throw a mean Christmas party. And our pastor can mix a mean (and sneaky!) sangria.
10. I'm so grateful for grandparents who are willing and able to take the boys. I get a small break (to enjoy silence) and the boys make priceless memories.
Friday, December 16, 2011
5QF
1. What's the best Christmas present you've ever received?
Can I say my son? He came a few weeks before Christmas...and his hospital bill was our Christmas present to each other....therefore, he's my Christmas present, right?
If I can't claim him as a gift....hhhmmmm, I'd have to go the the Cabbage Patch Kid. I received mine the year they were all the rage. I actually didn't think I'd be lucky enough to get one. But my awesome mom came to the rescue....I wonder if she has a fun story to tell about nabbing my Leonora Cicily.
2. Worst/Funniest White Elephant gift ever received?
I'm usually the one that fights for the good gift. And I usually get it.
We had a MOPS leadership Christmas party not long ago, and there were some pretty funny and AWFUL white elephant gifts. One was a stuffed bear....it was HUGE with a floral jumper complete w/ sailor collar. It had a crazy face....and was just about the ugliest thing I've ever seen. It totally freaked me out, but the girl that opened it was such a good sport. So, there I am....ripping on this bear the whole night...and when the end came, someone asked "WHO on earth brought this bear...."
Yeah, totally the lady sitting next to me.
(Sorry Gretchen!)
3. Is your Christmas tree plain and simple (white lights and matching ornaments) or is it wild and crazy (colored lights with lots of ornaments collected over the years)?
I have kids. I think there's a law that mandates that I have a hodge podge tree full on ornaments made with love. I love it. I'll appreciate the matchy-matchy trees in the stores.
4. "How" do you iron your clothes? The old fashioned iron/ironing board way, the shower, back in the dryer, etc.
Oh, come now....iron?!?!?! me? iron?
IF I do have to iron, I pull out the board and iron....I'm an old-fashioned girl at heart.
5. How much baking do you do for Christmas and what are your "must make" items? (I'm looking for recipes here, peeps...)
I found a fantastic caramel corn recipe ....but since I leave out the molasses, it's more of a butter toffee popcorn recipe. It's soooo yummy, and when I gave bags to my table mates in MOPS, they SQUEALED....it's that good! Take my word for it.....LEAVE OUT THE MOLASSES!
Can I say my son? He came a few weeks before Christmas...and his hospital bill was our Christmas present to each other....therefore, he's my Christmas present, right?
If I can't claim him as a gift....hhhmmmm, I'd have to go the the Cabbage Patch Kid. I received mine the year they were all the rage. I actually didn't think I'd be lucky enough to get one. But my awesome mom came to the rescue....I wonder if she has a fun story to tell about nabbing my Leonora Cicily.
2. Worst/Funniest White Elephant gift ever received?
I'm usually the one that fights for the good gift. And I usually get it.
We had a MOPS leadership Christmas party not long ago, and there were some pretty funny and AWFUL white elephant gifts. One was a stuffed bear....it was HUGE with a floral jumper complete w/ sailor collar. It had a crazy face....and was just about the ugliest thing I've ever seen. It totally freaked me out, but the girl that opened it was such a good sport. So, there I am....ripping on this bear the whole night...and when the end came, someone asked "WHO on earth brought this bear...."
Yeah, totally the lady sitting next to me.
(Sorry Gretchen!)
3. Is your Christmas tree plain and simple (white lights and matching ornaments) or is it wild and crazy (colored lights with lots of ornaments collected over the years)?
I have kids. I think there's a law that mandates that I have a hodge podge tree full on ornaments made with love. I love it. I'll appreciate the matchy-matchy trees in the stores.
4. "How" do you iron your clothes? The old fashioned iron/ironing board way, the shower, back in the dryer, etc.
Oh, come now....iron?!?!?! me? iron?
IF I do have to iron, I pull out the board and iron....I'm an old-fashioned girl at heart.
5. How much baking do you do for Christmas and what are your "must make" items? (I'm looking for recipes here, peeps...)
I found a fantastic caramel corn recipe ....but since I leave out the molasses, it's more of a butter toffee popcorn recipe. It's soooo yummy, and when I gave bags to my table mates in MOPS, they SQUEALED....it's that good! Take my word for it.....LEAVE OUT THE MOLASSES!
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Things you do when you mind is on strike
Somewhere between November and now...I've lost my ability to think clearly. It's been the worst the past couple of days. I can think of a few things that would cause this phenomenon...but still....the causes wouldn't be able to take away the fact that I've spent almost 1/2 of my days recuperating or recovering from the mistakes I made the first 1/2 of the day.
For instance...here's a list:
1. I got gas on my way to pick A up from school. Half way there, I heard a "thump, thump, thump." Upon investigation (i.e. looking in my driver's side mirror), I realized I forgot to replace the gas cap, and shut the tank door. It was flapping on the outside of the van. Awesome.
2. I not only cooked hamburgers on my pancake griddle (read: was too lazy to go outside and grill in the middle of December in Michigan), but I also cooked them one degree short of industrial hockey pucks. This is a tragedy in this carnivorous household.
3. I forgot to make A do his homework. I know better than this. We've been working on homework every night for the past 3 months! Really....they'll let just about anyone be a mom these days. :)
4. I forgot about our Bright Beginnings home visit at 8:30am. I remembered as she was backing down my driveway. And I was still in my pajamas.
5. I got dressed so quickly that I put my sweat pants on backward. Backward. And didn't realize it until I was in the company of my meeting friend. Backward. The whole time. Backward.
6. I went to make a bank deposit, and found myself in the drive thru of my credit union. Luckily, I realized this BEFORE I sent the tube into the building.
7. I made it to the BANK drive thru for the deposit, and realized that I had forgotten to check the checks. Of course, one person had decided to forget to SIGN their check.
8. The bank sends back the deposit slip for correction (really...they want ME to do the math in my head....aren't THEY the ones with calculators?), and I redo the math....and apparently mess THAT up to.
9. I forgot to send my friends' thank you note in the mail. For two months. Is there a statute of limitations on this?
10. I keep forgetting to ask D. what he wants for Christmas. Lovely gift-givers are waiting patiently for ideas to give him....and I just keep forgetting. Not on purpose....just forgetting.
Too early to test me for Alzheimer's? Just kidding. Busy schedules abound. I'm not a super-hero, and I'm perfectly ok with that. :)
For instance...here's a list:
1. I got gas on my way to pick A up from school. Half way there, I heard a "thump, thump, thump." Upon investigation (i.e. looking in my driver's side mirror), I realized I forgot to replace the gas cap, and shut the tank door. It was flapping on the outside of the van. Awesome.
2. I not only cooked hamburgers on my pancake griddle (read: was too lazy to go outside and grill in the middle of December in Michigan), but I also cooked them one degree short of industrial hockey pucks. This is a tragedy in this carnivorous household.
3. I forgot to make A do his homework. I know better than this. We've been working on homework every night for the past 3 months! Really....they'll let just about anyone be a mom these days. :)
4. I forgot about our Bright Beginnings home visit at 8:30am. I remembered as she was backing down my driveway. And I was still in my pajamas.
5. I got dressed so quickly that I put my sweat pants on backward. Backward. And didn't realize it until I was in the company of my meeting friend. Backward. The whole time. Backward.
6. I went to make a bank deposit, and found myself in the drive thru of my credit union. Luckily, I realized this BEFORE I sent the tube into the building.
7. I made it to the BANK drive thru for the deposit, and realized that I had forgotten to check the checks. Of course, one person had decided to forget to SIGN their check.
8. The bank sends back the deposit slip for correction (really...they want ME to do the math in my head....aren't THEY the ones with calculators?), and I redo the math....and apparently mess THAT up to.
9. I forgot to send my friends' thank you note in the mail. For two months. Is there a statute of limitations on this?
10. I keep forgetting to ask D. what he wants for Christmas. Lovely gift-givers are waiting patiently for ideas to give him....and I just keep forgetting. Not on purpose....just forgetting.
Too early to test me for Alzheimer's? Just kidding. Busy schedules abound. I'm not a super-hero, and I'm perfectly ok with that. :)
Monday, December 12, 2011
The world according to A: Eight is GRRRRREAT!
Some special little boy is turning eight today.
I still remember the day he was born.
Like it was yesterday.
(Side note: Does EVERY mom say that about the day her kids were born?)
I've said it before, and I'll say it again...
...he was worth every minute of that 22 1/2 hour labor.
And just because my ovaries are gluttons for punishment,
here's a blast from the distant-ish past.
(about 3 years ago)
And one from the other day:
I love watching him grow and change into a neat little boy. His heart is so soft- even though he doesn't want people to know. (Sounds just like my dad). He loves routine and schedules (sounds like D). But doesn't mind messy rooms (sounds like me).
And, just because he's a big boy now...here's eight things about him on his eighth birthday. (narrated by him)
- I got 100% on my AR test today. (accelerated reading)
- My favorite college football team is University of Michigan.
- My best friend is Nick and Ryan M.
- I'm saving my money for Nintendo ds or legos.
- We're having crabby patties for dinner tonight. (translated: hamburgers- thank you, Sponge Bob)
- My favorite holiday is Christmas.
- My favorite color is green.
- My favorite subject in school is math.
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
Intermittent blogging
While I'm not gonna start my blog post out by saying "oh, gosh...sorry I've neglected you! but I've been busy...."
Nope.
I HATE blog posts that start like that. Like you've been sitting at your computer refreshing every minute of every day just to read the drivel I post on here...hoping for an occasional laugh.
Yes, I've been busy...but haven't we all? It's Christmas time. We have parties, decorations, more parties, baked goods, cards, shopping, preparations, more parties, more things to coordinate...in addition to the regular livelihood.
Oh, and a December birthday boy would be HEARTBROKEN if I didn't make an awesome cake for him.
So, while I do miss the blog, and I miss entertaining myself with my posts (and hopefully you're entertained too), life outside the keyboard is scurrying along at an alarming pace. So, it's not like I don't appreciate your bloggy friendship during this holiday season...I just need to priortize my time. I'll be back intermittently...until the season is over...and then we can refresh the blog all the time.
And now.... there is gluten free chex mix baking in my oven at this very moment...permiating every inch of air in this house. I love that smell!
Nom nom nom
Nope.
I HATE blog posts that start like that. Like you've been sitting at your computer refreshing every minute of every day just to read the drivel I post on here...hoping for an occasional laugh.
Yes, I've been busy...but haven't we all? It's Christmas time. We have parties, decorations, more parties, baked goods, cards, shopping, preparations, more parties, more things to coordinate...in addition to the regular livelihood.
Oh, and a December birthday boy would be HEARTBROKEN if I didn't make an awesome cake for him.
So, while I do miss the blog, and I miss entertaining myself with my posts (and hopefully you're entertained too), life outside the keyboard is scurrying along at an alarming pace. So, it's not like I don't appreciate your bloggy friendship during this holiday season...I just need to priortize my time. I'll be back intermittently...until the season is over...and then we can refresh the blog all the time.
And now.... there is gluten free chex mix baking in my oven at this very moment...permiating every inch of air in this house. I love that smell!
Nom nom nom
Monday, December 5, 2011
Getting in the Christmas spirit
Ok....so Mama M. not so gently pointed out that I should have provided with y'all a link to show you how easy it is to make the personalized stockings that I highlighted in my last post. Well, just in case you haven't slept since I failed you, and are just waiting for that link, here it is. Really, it's a very easy craft and I loved the results!
And, because I've taken to listening to the Christmas station all the time in my car...I heard this on the way home from droppng the boys off at school. And I was laughing. (in the morning*, no less!). Well, to get you smiling on this Monday...I thought I'd share the smiles. :)
*not a morning person.
And, because I've taken to listening to the Christmas station all the time in my car...I heard this on the way home from droppng the boys off at school. And I was laughing. (in the morning*, no less!). Well, to get you smiling on this Monday...I thought I'd share the smiles. :)
*not a morning person.
Friday, December 2, 2011
5QF
It's already Friday again...and time for some 5QF! This is the most easy blog hoppy thingy out there. Click on the Five Question Friday square below, and it will take you to Mama M's blog if you want to play along.
1. What is your favorite Christmas decoration in your house?
I'd have to say our stockings. It's the first home decor project I tackled on my own after seeing the idea on the Martha Stewart show. They were relatively easy, and took about 8-9 hours to complete all four stockings. In addition, the felt fabric only ran about $13 for all of it, so I was on budget!
They're all personalized and everything! The only thing I'd change about them is that they are very narrow, and I can't fit much in there....
wait....
on second thought, that's a great problem to have! Small stockings are easy peasy on my Christmas budget!
2. Do you finish your Christmas shopping early or are you a last minute type?
I'm usually finished about a week or so before Christmas. I start the day after Christmas, and gradually pick things up for people if I know it's 1) a good deal and 2) something that they'll enjoy (i.e. not a trendy thing).
I'm pretty much on target for finishing next week sometime. I just need to get through A's birthday celebrations first. :)
3. When do you turn on your heat?
How's that for a smart-alek answer?!?!? hehe. Apparently, I'm a little sassy today.
4. Do you ever wish your blog was private?
Not really. My whole reason for starting the blog was to keep friends and family up-to-date on our house project. Then, when updates came few and far between, I realized that I had more things to say, and I realized it was a lot of fun. There are things I would post on here if my blog was private, but that's what journals are for...right?!?!?
Nope. It's the first thing I do after drying off out of the shower. It starts my "getting ready regime." I don't do "change" well, so I won't be mixing it up anytime soon. :)
Thursday, December 1, 2011
Those darn cards
I'm in a tangle of Christmas cards.
I finally figured out how to download the pictures for the card, sent them to the printers...and now they are in a not-so-neatly-stacked pile in the middle of my kitchen table. I have some addressed, filled, and licked (gross)...but there's an equally large pile.
One without updated addresses.
Guess how many people in my life have moved in the past two years, and I don't have updated addresses for them?!?!?
Go ahead...GUESS!
28.
I need to find 28 addresses.
I find this insane.
Stop moving, people.
At least, only if you would like to keep receiving our Christmas cards.
I finally figured out how to download the pictures for the card, sent them to the printers...and now they are in a not-so-neatly-stacked pile in the middle of my kitchen table. I have some addressed, filled, and licked (gross)...but there's an equally large pile.
One without updated addresses.
Guess how many people in my life have moved in the past two years, and I don't have updated addresses for them?!?!?
Go ahead...GUESS!
28.
I need to find 28 addresses.
I find this insane.
Stop moving, people.
At least, only if you would like to keep receiving our Christmas cards.
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Things I learned during deer hunting season
I realize that this post would have been a tad more applicable a few weeks ago...but hey...better late than never, right?
So, here's the top ten things I learned during deer hunting season:
1. Fondue nights are awesome with fun friends. And laughter. And wine. And Ticket to Ride. And victory. And lots of yummy yummy food.
2. I've seen just about every chick flick I wanted to see before hunting season. Next year: save a few for that weekend- it will make the time alone something to look forward to.
3. I enjoy teasing my husband and pushing his buttons. When he's not around, I tease my kids. My very literal child was not appreciative. I think I just need to save my button pushing for when my husband gets home. I think it will make a nice "welcome home" present. :)
4. Not doing the dishes for three days only makes more dishes to do on the third day. Next year: paper products.
5. Scratch that. Next year: eat out.
6. It IS possible to have my husband gone for three days and NOT have a major incident in the PMD house.
7. Next year: arrange for some sleep over's for the boys and REALLY have the house to myself!
8. Outings and family gatherings are much more fun with my husband by my side.
9. I need to be more grateful that he's willing to take a weekend to relax once a year.
10. I'm grateful that my husband gets along well enough with my father to go hunting with him for an entire weekend and still enjoy his company every.time.he.sees.my.dad. Love those men!
So, here's the top ten things I learned during deer hunting season:
1. Fondue nights are awesome with fun friends. And laughter. And wine. And Ticket to Ride. And victory. And lots of yummy yummy food.
2. I've seen just about every chick flick I wanted to see before hunting season. Next year: save a few for that weekend- it will make the time alone something to look forward to.
3. I enjoy teasing my husband and pushing his buttons. When he's not around, I tease my kids. My very literal child was not appreciative. I think I just need to save my button pushing for when my husband gets home. I think it will make a nice "welcome home" present. :)
4. Not doing the dishes for three days only makes more dishes to do on the third day. Next year: paper products.
5. Scratch that. Next year: eat out.
6. It IS possible to have my husband gone for three days and NOT have a major incident in the PMD house.
7. Next year: arrange for some sleep over's for the boys and REALLY have the house to myself!
8. Outings and family gatherings are much more fun with my husband by my side.
9. I need to be more grateful that he's willing to take a weekend to relax once a year.
10. I'm grateful that my husband gets along well enough with my father to go hunting with him for an entire weekend and still enjoy his company every.time.he.sees.my.dad. Love those men!
Monday, November 28, 2011
Just some sentences
I'm tired from the holiday weekend.
Turkey, mmmmmm.
My kitchen is still organized.
That, in itself, is a modern day miracle.
I need a good dye job.
Perhaps before the holidays?
I took the boys out on Black Friday.
Twice.
Bribery worked both times.
And I ran into a dear friend at Hobby Lobby.
I don't have a plan for my Christmas cards.
I'm ok with that.
Our Christmas decorations are up.
It feels good to decorate the new side of the house.
I love 3M command strips.
I'm decking the halls with them.
And my husband is not complaining.
I love my good friends.
I'm still tired....
...and I still have audits to do this evening.
This concludes my post.
Turkey, mmmmmm.
My kitchen is still organized.
That, in itself, is a modern day miracle.
I need a good dye job.
Perhaps before the holidays?
I took the boys out on Black Friday.
Twice.
Bribery worked both times.
And I ran into a dear friend at Hobby Lobby.
I don't have a plan for my Christmas cards.
I'm ok with that.
Our Christmas decorations are up.
It feels good to decorate the new side of the house.
I love 3M command strips.
I'm decking the halls with them.
And my husband is not complaining.
I love my good friends.
I'm still tired....
...and I still have audits to do this evening.
This concludes my post.
Friday, November 25, 2011
Five Question- Black Friday edition
I went to the stores this morning. Just two stores. With two little boys in tow. No, I didn't get anything for them...but the rest of my purchasing is 3/4 done, and I'm still on budget! No, I didn't take them out at 6am...we left the house at 9. Menards and Target weren't too bad! Thanks to the crazies that were in Target at midnight...we breezed through!
1. Is there a special dish you prepare that you are famous for?
I make a gluten free pumpkin pie that is pretty awesome. I've combined a few recipes to make it the way I want it to taste/texture. Want to see the recipe?
Raw nut crust:
2 cups pecans
1 tbsp cinnamon
pinch of nutmeg
10-11 dates
1 tbsp coconut oil
place pecans and spices in a food processor and process until pecans are finely ground. Add dates and coconut oil and process again until the mixture resembles a fine meal. Pour into a 9 inch deep dish glass pie plate and evenly press to the bottom and sides. Set aside.
Pie filling:
1 envelope Knox gelatin
1tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. ginger
1/2 tsp. nutmeg
1/2 tsp. salt
1 (14oz) can of sweetened condensed milk
2 eggs, beaten
1 (16oz.) can of pumpkin
In a medium saucepan, combine gelatin, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg and salt. Stir in milk and eggs. Mix well. Let stand about 2 minutes. Over low heat, cook and stir constantly until gelatin dissolves and mixture thickens slightly (about 10 min). Remove from heat. Stir in pumpkin, mix well, pour into prepared pie shell. Chill for 3 hours. Enjoy!
2. Are you (did you) go Black Friday shopping ?
I went to the stores this morning. Just two stores. With two little boys in tow. No, I didn't get anything for them...but the rest of my purchasing is 3/4 done, and I'm still on budget! No, I didn't take them out at 6am...we left the house at 9. Menards and Target weren't too bad! Thanks to the crazies that were in Target at midnight...we breezed through!
3. What are your strangest holiday traditions?
Someone told me that having crab legs for dinner on Christmas was strange. I find it delicious.
4. Pecan or pumpkin pie? (She actually asked "Apple or pumpkin?" I just T-giving'ed it!)
Well, since I've never tasted pecan pie....I'll have to go with pumpkin. It's fantastic. (see recipe above)
5. When will you put up your Christmas tree?
Well, right now, all our Christmas stuff is in the rafters in our garage/pole barn. The ceiling is about 13' high...and I don't do ladders. :) So, it's going to have to wait until D. gets around to bringing the bins down. Once they're down, I'll throw everything up...so perhaps by next weekend?
1. Is there a special dish you prepare that you are famous for?
I make a gluten free pumpkin pie that is pretty awesome. I've combined a few recipes to make it the way I want it to taste/texture. Want to see the recipe?
Raw nut crust:
2 cups pecans
1 tbsp cinnamon
pinch of nutmeg
10-11 dates
1 tbsp coconut oil
place pecans and spices in a food processor and process until pecans are finely ground. Add dates and coconut oil and process again until the mixture resembles a fine meal. Pour into a 9 inch deep dish glass pie plate and evenly press to the bottom and sides. Set aside.
Pie filling:
1 envelope Knox gelatin
1tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. ginger
1/2 tsp. nutmeg
1/2 tsp. salt
1 (14oz) can of sweetened condensed milk
2 eggs, beaten
1 (16oz.) can of pumpkin
In a medium saucepan, combine gelatin, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg and salt. Stir in milk and eggs. Mix well. Let stand about 2 minutes. Over low heat, cook and stir constantly until gelatin dissolves and mixture thickens slightly (about 10 min). Remove from heat. Stir in pumpkin, mix well, pour into prepared pie shell. Chill for 3 hours. Enjoy!
2. Are you (did you) go Black Friday shopping ?
I went to the stores this morning. Just two stores. With two little boys in tow. No, I didn't get anything for them...but the rest of my purchasing is 3/4 done, and I'm still on budget! No, I didn't take them out at 6am...we left the house at 9. Menards and Target weren't too bad! Thanks to the crazies that were in Target at midnight...we breezed through!
3. What are your strangest holiday traditions?
Someone told me that having crab legs for dinner on Christmas was strange. I find it delicious.
4. Pecan or pumpkin pie? (She actually asked "Apple or pumpkin?" I just T-giving'ed it!)
Well, since I've never tasted pecan pie....I'll have to go with pumpkin. It's fantastic. (see recipe above)
5. When will you put up your Christmas tree?
Well, right now, all our Christmas stuff is in the rafters in our garage/pole barn. The ceiling is about 13' high...and I don't do ladders. :) So, it's going to have to wait until D. gets around to bringing the bins down. Once they're down, I'll throw everything up...so perhaps by next weekend?
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
The counting continues
Blessings abound...and the thankful count continues:
16. A great hair cut. When I get these, I feel like a new woman. I get compliments on my hair, and I feel awesome. I love love love that my old beautician is back in town after 9 years away.
17. Friends. God has put new people in my path over the last few years, and I'm so so thankful. These are ladies I really feel I can be myself around, and that's such a gift.
18. Reese's Peanut Butter Cups. Gluten free goodness. If I'm gonna splurge, it might as well be on the good stuff that won't hurt my gut.
19. Health. Increased health. 53 pounds lost. Phasing out meds because my body is healing itself.
20. Work. I work from home. Although it provides a challenge with attention -seeking kids under foot, and sometimes stresses me out, I'm able to have lunch with them, go on field trips and set my own hours. And pay their school tuition.
21. Crafts. I really love being artsy. I love thinking of new crafts to do, and I love starting something and not knowing where it will end up...but figuring it out along the way.
22. Organizers. My friend, Stephenie, came last Thursday to help me organize after she read this post. While I had tackled much of that room on my own, I still needed help fitting everything into the one kitchen. Not only did she fit the things I found "unfittable," it's totally organized. I haven't had to look more than 20 seconds for anything!
23. Costco. This is a love/hate relationship. I hate the cashier when they tell me my total. Ugh...it's rarely under $100. BUT, I get so much food, and such a value on vitamins, that I really shouldn't complain. AND if I go directly after school with the boys, I don't have to worry about feeding them a snack- the sample stands take care of that for me. :)
24. My alternative Dr. and his (nurse) wife. These medical professionals diagnosed my gluten issue within 5 minutes of my first appointment. After I spent thousands of dollars on testing with my conventional Dr...and they never found an issue. This Dr. and his wife care about each and every patient, pray for them all, and educate them about what's happening in their bodies. The education has been priceless.
25. My handy husband. Really, he's not meant to be #25....but I wanted to give him a shout out on his birthday! Happy Birthday, baby! Love you tons.
16. A great hair cut. When I get these, I feel like a new woman. I get compliments on my hair, and I feel awesome. I love love love that my old beautician is back in town after 9 years away.
17. Friends. God has put new people in my path over the last few years, and I'm so so thankful. These are ladies I really feel I can be myself around, and that's such a gift.
18. Reese's Peanut Butter Cups. Gluten free goodness. If I'm gonna splurge, it might as well be on the good stuff that won't hurt my gut.
19. Health. Increased health. 53 pounds lost. Phasing out meds because my body is healing itself.
20. Work. I work from home. Although it provides a challenge with attention -seeking kids under foot, and sometimes stresses me out, I'm able to have lunch with them, go on field trips and set my own hours. And pay their school tuition.
21. Crafts. I really love being artsy. I love thinking of new crafts to do, and I love starting something and not knowing where it will end up...but figuring it out along the way.
22. Organizers. My friend, Stephenie, came last Thursday to help me organize after she read this post. While I had tackled much of that room on my own, I still needed help fitting everything into the one kitchen. Not only did she fit the things I found "unfittable," it's totally organized. I haven't had to look more than 20 seconds for anything!
23. Costco. This is a love/hate relationship. I hate the cashier when they tell me my total. Ugh...it's rarely under $100. BUT, I get so much food, and such a value on vitamins, that I really shouldn't complain. AND if I go directly after school with the boys, I don't have to worry about feeding them a snack- the sample stands take care of that for me. :)
24. My alternative Dr. and his (nurse) wife. These medical professionals diagnosed my gluten issue within 5 minutes of my first appointment. After I spent thousands of dollars on testing with my conventional Dr...and they never found an issue. This Dr. and his wife care about each and every patient, pray for them all, and educate them about what's happening in their bodies. The education has been priceless.
25. My handy husband. Really, he's not meant to be #25....but I wanted to give him a shout out on his birthday! Happy Birthday, baby! Love you tons.
Monday, November 21, 2011
Blessings to count
Thanksgiving is just around the corner, which means I need to start thinking of all the things I'm grateful for.
Heck....I know I think about them all year long, but right now is a great time to give extra thanks.
So, here's a few blessings I'm thankful for:
1- a safe relaxing deer hunting weekend for my husband.
2- a school that nurtures my children's minds...and hearts.
3- a sister-in-law who doesn't disregard my gluten free needs, but sees it as a challenge to create a yummy, sandy-safe meal.
4- Decaf White Heather coffee (almond toffee...mmmmm)
5- Orange juice. Mmmmmmm.
6- Texting with friends on my cell phone.
7- My small group
8- Fondue night
9- Great friends on fondue night
10- Great friends, great fondue, great fun board game, and I won. :)
11- The ability to feed my boys through a growth spurt.
12- Fantastic parents
13- Great in-laws
14- One whole kitchen
15- An uneventful deer hunting weekend for the boys and I. Without critter drama.
Heck....I know I think about them all year long, but right now is a great time to give extra thanks.
So, here's a few blessings I'm thankful for:
1- a safe relaxing deer hunting weekend for my husband.
2- a school that nurtures my children's minds...and hearts.
3- a sister-in-law who doesn't disregard my gluten free needs, but sees it as a challenge to create a yummy, sandy-safe meal.
4- Decaf White Heather coffee (almond toffee...mmmmm)
5- Orange juice. Mmmmmmm.
6- Texting with friends on my cell phone.
7- My small group
8- Fondue night
9- Great friends on fondue night
10- Great friends, great fondue, great fun board game, and I won. :)
11- The ability to feed my boys through a growth spurt.
12- Fantastic parents
13- Great in-laws
14- One whole kitchen
15- An uneventful deer hunting weekend for the boys and I. Without critter drama.
Friday, November 18, 2011
5QF
1. Do you have a go to song that always puts you in a good mood?
There's always a few songs that I fall back on...but it depends on what I'm trying to motivate myself to do.
If I'm trying to get in a "good workout" mood, I listen to "Eye of the Tiger."
If I'm trying to get into a "good cleaning" mood, I listen to Hootie and the Blowfish or Deanna Carter.
If I'm just trying to get a "pick me up", I'd have to say "Take on me"
Why yes, I do like 80's music...why do you ask?!?!?
2. Are you a real Christmas tree kinda person or do you go with a real fake one?
I always thought I'd be a "real tree" kinda girl. I'm old-fashioned at heart.
However, once kids came into the picture...and a teeny tiny little Love Shack, well, I found a slim artificial pre-lit tree...oh, and I love love love it. Put together and plug in. So fast, so easy. Perfect.
3. What are you thankful for?
What am I NOT thankful for?!?! Seriously, I am so blessed....if this blog had unlimited space on it, I'd still end up maxing it out. But, I'll sum it all up into one sentence:
4. Which fashion fad from the past do you wish you could wear today?
I'm not a "fad" person. I never have been, and probably won't ever be. I'm just me.
5. Do you wait until the "low fuel" light comes on before you fill up the gas tank?
Yep. And I know that once that light goes on, I have approximately 24 miles to go before I really HAVE to refuel. Procrastination runs in my blood. :)
There's always a few songs that I fall back on...but it depends on what I'm trying to motivate myself to do.
If I'm trying to get in a "good workout" mood, I listen to "Eye of the Tiger."
If I'm trying to get into a "good cleaning" mood, I listen to Hootie and the Blowfish or Deanna Carter.
If I'm just trying to get a "pick me up", I'd have to say "Take on me"
Why yes, I do like 80's music...why do you ask?!?!?
2. Are you a real Christmas tree kinda person or do you go with a real fake one?
I always thought I'd be a "real tree" kinda girl. I'm old-fashioned at heart.
However, once kids came into the picture...and a teeny tiny little Love Shack, well, I found a slim artificial pre-lit tree...oh, and I love love love it. Put together and plug in. So fast, so easy. Perfect.
3. What are you thankful for?
What am I NOT thankful for?!?! Seriously, I am so blessed....if this blog had unlimited space on it, I'd still end up maxing it out. But, I'll sum it all up into one sentence:
I'm grateful that I serve a God who is always in control.
4. Which fashion fad from the past do you wish you could wear today?
I'm not a "fad" person. I never have been, and probably won't ever be. I'm just me.
5. Do you wait until the "low fuel" light comes on before you fill up the gas tank?
Yep. And I know that once that light goes on, I have approximately 24 miles to go before I really HAVE to refuel. Procrastination runs in my blood. :)
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
Shopping
Christmas is ....what....less than 6 weeks away?
I started shopping today.
In a strange turn of events, my dad is the first one done.
He's usually the last.
I'm impressed with myself.
I started shopping today.
In a strange turn of events, my dad is the first one done.
He's usually the last.
I'm impressed with myself.
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Driving pet peeves that make me want to ram people with my van
No, I'm not a hostile person, why do you ask!??!?!
Over the course of three days, I spent more than 16 hours in a car. This is much more than the 90 minutes (tops!) I'm used to per day....which means I had a long time to analyze other's behavior and try to talk myself down from a road rage ledge.
So...here we go on a list of things that set me off.
1. Wide turners. If you in the turn lane, don't swing your car so that you enter MY lane so you can make a wide turn. You're driving a compact car, NOT a semi truck. You do NOT need that wide of a turn radius. If you do, chances are you shouldn't be on the road.
2. Slow left lane drivers. There's a right lane for a reason. If you're slower, get over there. That's your happy lane....and I'll happily pass you on the left. No really, move over.
3. Flipper-off'ers. Chances are, I'm just responding to your awful driving. If you wouldn't be so stupid behind the wheel, I wouldn't have to over compensate for your lack of quality thinking. You flipping me off just results in a van sized-dent in your side of the car. Really...watch it.
4. Road hoggers. There's two lanes. Pick one. Any one. And if you're driving slower, try the right one. See #2.
5. Wrong way parking lot drivers. I've inherited this one from my mom. The directional parking spaces are angled that way so that poor drivers (like you) can get into and out of them without hitting other cars. The lanes are thinner because of this reason. You're taking up space in my driving lane. Pay attention, please.
6. TV's. I'm driving across town, and I'm seeing all these tv screens down and kids zoned out watching the tube. Really, parents? You can't talk to your kid for the 20 minutes it takes to cross town? Really!?!??! Shut off the darn tv and have a relationship with your kid! Save the tube for road trips- give them something to look forward to.
7. Litterers. Asphalt does NOT equal trash receptacle. If I see you dumping on the road, I will write down you license number, and I will report you. No, really...been there, done that!
8. Booger pickers. You have windows all around you. You're knuckle deep. People can see that. Gross.
9. Parking lot hogger. Again, you don't need four spaces (up close!) to keep your precious car ding-free. You're just being a selfish snit. If you want to stay ding-free, park out a tad farther and take a walk in. Chances are less people will be looking nasty in your direction.
10. Newspaper readers. Really?!?!? How can you read a newspaper while driving?!?!? How can you hold the paper, read (without loosing your place) and not kill everyone in your path?!?! Is the news from yesterday THAT important? Couldn't you just turn on news radio?!?!?
Over the course of three days, I spent more than 16 hours in a car. This is much more than the 90 minutes (tops!) I'm used to per day....which means I had a long time to analyze other's behavior and try to talk myself down from a road rage ledge.
So...here we go on a list of things that set me off.
1. Wide turners. If you in the turn lane, don't swing your car so that you enter MY lane so you can make a wide turn. You're driving a compact car, NOT a semi truck. You do NOT need that wide of a turn radius. If you do, chances are you shouldn't be on the road.
2. Slow left lane drivers. There's a right lane for a reason. If you're slower, get over there. That's your happy lane....and I'll happily pass you on the left. No really, move over.
3. Flipper-off'ers. Chances are, I'm just responding to your awful driving. If you wouldn't be so stupid behind the wheel, I wouldn't have to over compensate for your lack of quality thinking. You flipping me off just results in a van sized-dent in your side of the car. Really...watch it.
4. Road hoggers. There's two lanes. Pick one. Any one. And if you're driving slower, try the right one. See #2.
5. Wrong way parking lot drivers. I've inherited this one from my mom. The directional parking spaces are angled that way so that poor drivers (like you) can get into and out of them without hitting other cars. The lanes are thinner because of this reason. You're taking up space in my driving lane. Pay attention, please.
6. TV's. I'm driving across town, and I'm seeing all these tv screens down and kids zoned out watching the tube. Really, parents? You can't talk to your kid for the 20 minutes it takes to cross town? Really!?!??! Shut off the darn tv and have a relationship with your kid! Save the tube for road trips- give them something to look forward to.
7. Litterers. Asphalt does NOT equal trash receptacle. If I see you dumping on the road, I will write down you license number, and I will report you. No, really...been there, done that!
8. Booger pickers. You have windows all around you. You're knuckle deep. People can see that. Gross.
9. Parking lot hogger. Again, you don't need four spaces (up close!) to keep your precious car ding-free. You're just being a selfish snit. If you want to stay ding-free, park out a tad farther and take a walk in. Chances are less people will be looking nasty in your direction.
10. Newspaper readers. Really?!?!? How can you read a newspaper while driving?!?!? How can you hold the paper, read (without loosing your place) and not kill everyone in your path?!?! Is the news from yesterday THAT important? Couldn't you just turn on news radio?!?!?
Monday, November 14, 2011
Weddings, wind chills, and card readers
I was in Kentucky.
For 1/2 of the weekend.
My cousin got married.
I went with my mom.
We left on Thursday at noon.
We drove through a few sets of flurries.
Ugh.
We stayed at my favorite Aunt and Uncle's house.
Along with most of the family.
Some I haven't seen for 5 (or so) years.
It was nice to catch up.
I wore a new (smaller sized!!!) dress that I purchased on a crazy sale for $27.46.
I loved it.
It was comfortable.
My shoes were not.
The wedding was in a mansion on the Keenland property in Lexington.
It was outside on the patio.
The temperature was approximately 31 degrees.
It was frigid.
But beautiful.
I have blisters on the tops of my toes.
What?
We drove home on Saturday.
Indiana is the longest, flattest, more rediculous state to drive through.
The boys were so excited to see me home.
Sunday was another busy busy busy day.
I was very tired by the end of the day yesterday.
I went to bed by 9pm.
D has my card reader, so I can't upload any pictures.
Perhaps later. :)
For 1/2 of the weekend.
My cousin got married.
I went with my mom.
We left on Thursday at noon.
We drove through a few sets of flurries.
Ugh.
We stayed at my favorite Aunt and Uncle's house.
Along with most of the family.
Some I haven't seen for 5 (or so) years.
It was nice to catch up.
I wore a new (smaller sized!!!) dress that I purchased on a crazy sale for $27.46.
I loved it.
It was comfortable.
My shoes were not.
The wedding was in a mansion on the Keenland property in Lexington.
It was outside on the patio.
The temperature was approximately 31 degrees.
It was frigid.
But beautiful.
I have blisters on the tops of my toes.
What?
We drove home on Saturday.
Indiana is the longest, flattest, more rediculous state to drive through.
The boys were so excited to see me home.
Sunday was another busy busy busy day.
I was very tired by the end of the day yesterday.
I went to bed by 9pm.
D has my card reader, so I can't upload any pictures.
Perhaps later. :)
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Nick
When I envisioned our home that we would raise our kids in, I always imagined a neighborhood (NOT a subdivision, but a neighborhood) with tons of kids running around.
Like I had.
Like D. had.
We would run out the door and play and play and play until we heard my mom's tall-tell yell for us outside the back door, "SSSSSS AAAAAAA NNNNNNN DDDDDDD YYYYYYY"
We heard it, cleaned up, and ran home for dinner.
I never realized what a rarity that is.
That we had TONS of neighborhood friends all running around, clothes pinning cards to the back of our bikes to make motor sounds....riding to the local store to spend $1 on candy, watching backyard fireworks on the 4th.
When we first moved here, there was one family in our backyard. The boys were fast friends, and so were the moms. :)
That's it.
No other kids.
And then they moved.
While I don't begrudge them their family's ministry move...we miss them.
And then, Eureka...we have a new friend.
The nephew of one of our neighbors moved in with his elderly aunt to help her with home up-keep, etc. And he has a son. A son just a year older than A. A son who loves all sports, just like A.
He's only here on the weekends, when he visits his dad, but that's ok....that way I don't need to make rules about weekday playing.
He's incredibly respectful of our house and our family too- his family has very close priorities to ours.
Last weekend, Nick's dad had 4 tickets to a local hockey game. D didn't really want to go, he wanted to say home and chill out on the couch...but agreed to go because he knew A. would go CRAZY!
And he did. He was beaming when he came home- with a game puck and free t-shirt in hand. Apparently, there weren't many people there that night, so the boys had the run of the arena. Nick had been there many, many times before, so he showed A. the ropes.
Monday morning, I find this picture in my email in box:
Check out who made it on the arena screen (more than once, I'm finding out....)
I love neighborhood friends!
Like I had.
Like D. had.
We would run out the door and play and play and play until we heard my mom's tall-tell yell for us outside the back door, "SSSSSS AAAAAAA NNNNNNN DDDDDDD YYYYYYY"
We heard it, cleaned up, and ran home for dinner.
I never realized what a rarity that is.
That we had TONS of neighborhood friends all running around, clothes pinning cards to the back of our bikes to make motor sounds....riding to the local store to spend $1 on candy, watching backyard fireworks on the 4th.
When we first moved here, there was one family in our backyard. The boys were fast friends, and so were the moms. :)
That's it.
No other kids.
And then they moved.
While I don't begrudge them their family's ministry move...we miss them.
And then, Eureka...we have a new friend.
The nephew of one of our neighbors moved in with his elderly aunt to help her with home up-keep, etc. And he has a son. A son just a year older than A. A son who loves all sports, just like A.
He's only here on the weekends, when he visits his dad, but that's ok....that way I don't need to make rules about weekday playing.
He's incredibly respectful of our house and our family too- his family has very close priorities to ours.
Last weekend, Nick's dad had 4 tickets to a local hockey game. D didn't really want to go, he wanted to say home and chill out on the couch...but agreed to go because he knew A. would go CRAZY!
And he did. He was beaming when he came home- with a game puck and free t-shirt in hand. Apparently, there weren't many people there that night, so the boys had the run of the arena. Nick had been there many, many times before, so he showed A. the ropes.
Monday morning, I find this picture in my email in box:
Check out who made it on the arena screen (more than once, I'm finding out....)
I love neighborhood friends!
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Seven weeks
There are LESS than seven weeks until Christmas.
This does not put me into a bevy of shopping stress....it gives me something to look forward to. It's almost as if the rest of the year exists to provide anticipation for the season. Here's my list of anticipatory activities for the next seven weeks:
1. Food. From the sweet potato dish (w/ marshmallows) on Thanksgiving to the crab legs on Christmas Day...oh my, the food is just so good. And now that I've found a fantastic pumpkin pie recipe with a raw nut crust....well, that's just perfection.
2. The people I dine with. Family. Friends. I love that feeling of togetherness.
3. Christmas carols. Note: This does NOT include the following songs- Feliz Navidad, Grandma got run over by a Reindeer, and All I want for Christmas is my two front teeth. However, anything sung by Michael Buble is tops in my ears.
4. Breakfast Birthday party. Every Christmas morning, the boys open their stockings, and before we do family gifts, we have a breakfast birthday party complete with gf coffee cake, 3 candles and a birthday ballad for little baby Jesus. This is my way of counter-acting the crazy commercial-ness of the holiday.
5. Giving gifts. I must admit....even though the whole commercial part of the holiday irritates me, I am a gift giver. Always have been. It's a love language. I've been told I'm a great gift giver. I love thinking about my recipient and finding the perfect gift to give. I can honestly say that I love gift giving more than the receiving.
6. Decorating. Yes, I'm looking forward to it. I love making my house feel all cozy and festive. Now, we're all under one roof. C is 4 this year, and wants to help, and knows to stay away from the breakables. There's a new found independence that goes with having older kids, and I'm loving it! And everything's under one roof....have I mentioned it's all under one roof?!?!?!
7. Shopping with Melody. We did this last year, and I totally enjoyed the evening. I'm hoping to make this a tradition?!?!? What say you, Mel?
8. Christmas cards. It's like catching up on Facebook, but for the technologically challenged, and with pretty pictures. Love it.
9. Christmas Break. Ask me two days in, and I may be singing a different tune. However, I'm looking forward to lazy mornings, and spending some extra time with my boys.
10. Family time. Worthy of saying it again. It seems like we just can't find enough time during the year to make each other priorities all the time. (hey...gotta work sometime). But it's great to see them and really make a concentrated effort to enjoy each other's company.
What things are you looking forward to this holiday season?
This does not put me into a bevy of shopping stress....it gives me something to look forward to. It's almost as if the rest of the year exists to provide anticipation for the season. Here's my list of anticipatory activities for the next seven weeks:
1. Food. From the sweet potato dish (w/ marshmallows) on Thanksgiving to the crab legs on Christmas Day...oh my, the food is just so good. And now that I've found a fantastic pumpkin pie recipe with a raw nut crust....well, that's just perfection.
2. The people I dine with. Family. Friends. I love that feeling of togetherness.
3. Christmas carols. Note: This does NOT include the following songs- Feliz Navidad, Grandma got run over by a Reindeer, and All I want for Christmas is my two front teeth. However, anything sung by Michael Buble is tops in my ears.
4. Breakfast Birthday party. Every Christmas morning, the boys open their stockings, and before we do family gifts, we have a breakfast birthday party complete with gf coffee cake, 3 candles and a birthday ballad for little baby Jesus. This is my way of counter-acting the crazy commercial-ness of the holiday.
5. Giving gifts. I must admit....even though the whole commercial part of the holiday irritates me, I am a gift giver. Always have been. It's a love language. I've been told I'm a great gift giver. I love thinking about my recipient and finding the perfect gift to give. I can honestly say that I love gift giving more than the receiving.
6. Decorating. Yes, I'm looking forward to it. I love making my house feel all cozy and festive. Now, we're all under one roof. C is 4 this year, and wants to help, and knows to stay away from the breakables. There's a new found independence that goes with having older kids, and I'm loving it! And everything's under one roof....have I mentioned it's all under one roof?!?!?!
7. Shopping with Melody. We did this last year, and I totally enjoyed the evening. I'm hoping to make this a tradition?!?!? What say you, Mel?
8. Christmas cards. It's like catching up on Facebook, but for the technologically challenged, and with pretty pictures. Love it.
9. Christmas Break. Ask me two days in, and I may be singing a different tune. However, I'm looking forward to lazy mornings, and spending some extra time with my boys.
10. Family time. Worthy of saying it again. It seems like we just can't find enough time during the year to make each other priorities all the time. (hey...gotta work sometime). But it's great to see them and really make a concentrated effort to enjoy each other's company.
What things are you looking forward to this holiday season?
Monday, November 7, 2011
Not Me....Nope!
I really enjoy a good Not Me! Monday. I really feel as though it's therapy and helps me realize that other mom's out there are just as scatter-brained or not-together just like me. So, what say you...on with a Not Me! Monday!
- I did not double....(or actually triple) book a day this week. When one thing obviously trumps all others...resulting in a few disappointing emails to friends to reschedule. Nope! Certainly, I have it all together, and use the calendar on my fridge or the planner on my phone religiously. I have it all together and am totally organized with my time.
- I did not threaten my children "no wii for a week" in order to get them to turn off the lights as they leave the room. First of all, I would NEVER use screen time for bribery, (we don't have screen time in this house at all- screens rot brains....sha!)......and FURTHERMORE, I would never bribe my children. Obviously, I have raised my children to be obedient "just for the joy of being an obedient child" and they are fantastic stewards of energy.
- I did not steal3 ok, ok...5 Reese's Peanut Butter cups from the Halloween stash. Nope...certainly, I am on a strict eating plan, and I would never delve into the hard-earned candy stash of my children's labor. I did not justify this by stating that I'm saving their teacher's from sugar-highed children for the next few days.
- I did not tell C. that there wasn't enough protein shake mix for him, and then go ahead and make one for myself. I am not a selfish horrible person and mom. I do not put my uber narrow eating choices and nutritional needs before his. Never. I always choose to starve myself to give my child his whim choice of breakfast foods- even though I know he won't finish it and will spill it all over the car. I certainly won't do that...bring on the spill!
What things have you not done over the past few weeks?
- I did not double....(or actually triple) book a day this week. When one thing obviously trumps all others...resulting in a few disappointing emails to friends to reschedule. Nope! Certainly, I have it all together, and use the calendar on my fridge or the planner on my phone religiously. I have it all together and am totally organized with my time.
- I did not threaten my children "no wii for a week" in order to get them to turn off the lights as they leave the room. First of all, I would NEVER use screen time for bribery, (we don't have screen time in this house at all- screens rot brains....sha!)......and FURTHERMORE, I would never bribe my children. Obviously, I have raised my children to be obedient "just for the joy of being an obedient child" and they are fantastic stewards of energy.
- I did not steal
- I did not tell C. that there wasn't enough protein shake mix for him, and then go ahead and make one for myself. I am not a selfish horrible person and mom. I do not put my uber narrow eating choices and nutritional needs before his. Never. I always choose to starve myself to give my child his whim choice of breakfast foods- even though I know he won't finish it and will spill it all over the car. I certainly won't do that...bring on the spill!
What things have you not done over the past few weeks?
Friday, November 4, 2011
5QF
1. What movie do you love to quote?
We have a few that we pull from that are pretty much classics in our house. Here's a few that are used most frequently:
Pretty in Pink:
"You my new style American girlfriend"
"I've never been so happy in my whole life!" sometimes followed by "now I have a place to put my hand!"
" Where is my automobile?" "AUTOMOBILE?!?!?"
"Quit feeling sorry for yourself, it's bad for your complexion!"
"How you spell? Well, you don't spell it, son, you EAT it!"
"Dat you?" "Yeah, dat me."
"BONSAI!"
Footloose:
" He's testing us! Our Lord is testing us!"
"Jump back"
"Willard...which is your right from your left?"
"Uh oh...he's taking the car...."
"What did David do? what did David do? He was leaping before the Lord in a dance."
"and there was a time for this law, but not anymore. It's our time to dance."
Napoleon Dymanite:
"GOSH!"
"What ever I feel like, gosh!"
"Tina, come get your dinner."
"Your mom goes to college."
"You're just jealous of me because I've been chatting with hot girls online all day."
"Vote for pedro"
2. Have you ever ridden a motorcycle?
Yes. My brother owned a crotch rocket in the early years. He gave me a ride home on it and I burned the inside of my ankle so bad. The blister was the grossest and biggest thing I've ever seen. So, after that I'm a little sceerd of motorcycles and their hot hot hot mufflers.
3. What's your favorite thing to do on a rainy day?
Watch chick flicks, read a book, clean the house....
4. Do you prefer a bunch of small gifts, or one really big, (expensive) gift?
Depends on my needs that year. The bigger gifts are usually the ones I treasure the most and use the most often, though.
5. Do you ever lose track of days and show up somewhere wrong?
Not really....When I mix up days, I usually miss appointments or coffee dates. My subconscious must be hoping for a free day instead of the crazy busy ones....
We have a few that we pull from that are pretty much classics in our house. Here's a few that are used most frequently:
Pretty in Pink:
"You my new style American girlfriend"
"I've never been so happy in my whole life!" sometimes followed by "now I have a place to put my hand!"
" Where is my automobile?" "AUTOMOBILE?!?!?"
"Quit feeling sorry for yourself, it's bad for your complexion!"
"How you spell? Well, you don't spell it, son, you EAT it!"
"Dat you?" "Yeah, dat me."
"BONSAI!"
Footloose:
" He's testing us! Our Lord is testing us!"
"Jump back"
"Willard...which is your right from your left?"
"Uh oh...he's taking the car...."
"What did David do? what did David do? He was leaping before the Lord in a dance."
"and there was a time for this law, but not anymore. It's our time to dance."
Napoleon Dymanite:
"GOSH!"
"What ever I feel like, gosh!"
"Tina, come get your dinner."
"Your mom goes to college."
"You're just jealous of me because I've been chatting with hot girls online all day."
"Vote for pedro"
2. Have you ever ridden a motorcycle?
Yes. My brother owned a crotch rocket in the early years. He gave me a ride home on it and I burned the inside of my ankle so bad. The blister was the grossest and biggest thing I've ever seen. So, after that I'm a little sceerd of motorcycles and their hot hot hot mufflers.
3. What's your favorite thing to do on a rainy day?
Watch chick flicks, read a book, clean the house....
4. Do you prefer a bunch of small gifts, or one really big, (expensive) gift?
Depends on my needs that year. The bigger gifts are usually the ones I treasure the most and use the most often, though.
5. Do you ever lose track of days and show up somewhere wrong?
Not really....When I mix up days, I usually miss appointments or coffee dates. My subconscious must be hoping for a free day instead of the crazy busy ones....
Thursday, November 3, 2011
Random Post Halloween List
- So, Halloween is over as of Monday. As of Sunday, Christmas decorations were out in full force. Ugh.
- I'm already started my Christmas shopping (actually, started it in June), but that doesn't mean I'm ready for "Deck the Halls."
- I need to get the Halloween candy out of my house.
- I need to get back on the running bandwagon (see previous statement)
- I had a crazy-not-at-all-went-like-I-planned morning, but I recovered quickly and everything turned out ok.
- My kitchen is a mess.
- I will soon have help organizing my mess. I'm so grateful, but afraid that she'll hate me when she sees how disorganized I really am.
- I need to get the Halloween candy out of my house.
- C. is watching Strawberry Shortcake, and I'm perfectly ok with that.
- I'm already started my Christmas shopping (actually, started it in June), but that doesn't mean I'm ready for "Deck the Halls."
- I need to get the Halloween candy out of my house.
- I need to get back on the running bandwagon (see previous statement)
- I had a crazy-not-at-all-went-like-I-planned morning, but I recovered quickly and everything turned out ok.
- My kitchen is a mess.
- I will soon have help organizing my mess. I'm so grateful, but afraid that she'll hate me when she sees how disorganized I really am.
- I need to get the Halloween candy out of my house.
- C. is watching Strawberry Shortcake, and I'm perfectly ok with that.
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
All grown up
Lately there's been a lot of reflection over when the kids were small.
Perhaps because we're in a new phase of our lives: no diapers, soccer, basketball, staring down the gauntlet of having both my children in school full time within the next year or two. More independence.
We're starting to purge the baby stuff, and look forward to just enjoying the boys as they grow.
It's also weird to see friend's kids. To see them grow, and see what little personalities that had as a small baby come out as a kid. It's just fun to see and enjoy life.
So, because I'm a sap, and because I'm finding all sorts of pictures and thought it would be fun to post:
Perhaps because we're in a new phase of our lives: no diapers, soccer, basketball, staring down the gauntlet of having both my children in school full time within the next year or two. More independence.
We're starting to purge the baby stuff, and look forward to just enjoying the boys as they grow.
It's also weird to see friend's kids. To see them grow, and see what little personalities that had as a small baby come out as a kid. It's just fun to see and enjoy life.
So, because I'm a sap, and because I'm finding all sorts of pictures and thought it would be fun to post:
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
to the victor go the spoils
Between trunk-or-treat
The firestation Halloween party
and regular old trick-or-treating....
I'd say we have enough candy to last us until next year.
Monday, October 31, 2011
PLEASE tell me you can see what it is!!!
We carved pumpkins on Saturday night.
When I say "we" I meant D and I...and the boys "helped."
They helped by picking out a pattern to put on the pumpkin, whined about the gooiness of the pumpkin guts, and refused to touch it, helped by poking holes from the pattern onto the pumpkin (if you're C, you are poling holes EVERYWHERE), and putting your fingers precariously close to sharp knife blades.
Yep, fun was had byall some.
C's pumpkin was the bane of my existence. He picked a moderately hard one...and then he poked holes EVERYWHERE making it difficult to see where to really cut.
So, here's our line up:
Close ups:
Ok...can you tell what it is? It's the one on the left below:
When I say "we" I meant D and I...and the boys "helped."
They helped by picking out a pattern to put on the pumpkin, whined about the gooiness of the pumpkin guts, and refused to touch it, helped by poking holes from the pattern onto the pumpkin (if you're C, you are poling holes EVERYWHERE), and putting your fingers precariously close to sharp knife blades.
Yep, fun was had by
C's pumpkin was the bane of my existence. He picked a moderately hard one...and then he poked holes EVERYWHERE making it difficult to see where to really cut.
So, here's our line up:
In the light:
A's is the spider
Mine is the funny Frankenstein.
C's is the next one.
D's is the U of M block M. (Go blue!)
Close ups:
Ok...can you tell what it is? It's the one on the left below:
Friday, October 28, 2011
5QF
I.am.exhausted.
A. had a teeny little cold last week, and C. now has it. For an asthmatic child, it's never a teeny cold. We've had a 4 year old bunking with us the last two nights...and last night there was no sleep to be had. We narrowly avoided an ER visit - for which I'm extremely grateful. But, now I'm tired. C. is napping on the couch fully engolfed in Vicks vapo rub (for littles), and I'm here blogging with a full plate of work in front of me.
Motherhood is such a blessing. A very tiring blessing.
1. Do you prefer cotton, silk, or flannel sheets?
I'm a cotton girl. We have a set of flannel that we pull out in Jan/ Feb. But those only last a week before we realize that we are now in a house that has insulation, and don't need the crazy hot sheets.
I have a few pairs of a Sateen sheet. Not silky, still cotton....but ohhhhh, so cozy!
2. What time zone are you in?
Eastern
3. What is your favorite part of the holiday season?
The gift giving. Thinking of my recipient and finding the perfect gift for them.
The socializing. I love being with friends and family doing parties and just hanging out.
The decorating. There's just something about trimming a Christmas tree.
The worshiping. Don't forget what the season is all about.
4. What is your favorite "wintry" drink? (It doesn't have to be an "alcoholic" drink!)
Coffee. Anything coffee.
5. In your opinion, what is the worst job in the world?
Ever watch Dirty Jobs with Mike Rowe? Pretty much any job that he goes to is what I would consider the worst job in the world. And yet, I continue to watch and just am totally grateful he's there and NOT me. :)
A. had a teeny little cold last week, and C. now has it. For an asthmatic child, it's never a teeny cold. We've had a 4 year old bunking with us the last two nights...and last night there was no sleep to be had. We narrowly avoided an ER visit - for which I'm extremely grateful. But, now I'm tired. C. is napping on the couch fully engolfed in Vicks vapo rub (for littles), and I'm here blogging with a full plate of work in front of me.
Motherhood is such a blessing. A very tiring blessing.
1. Do you prefer cotton, silk, or flannel sheets?
I'm a cotton girl. We have a set of flannel that we pull out in Jan/ Feb. But those only last a week before we realize that we are now in a house that has insulation, and don't need the crazy hot sheets.
I have a few pairs of a Sateen sheet. Not silky, still cotton....but ohhhhh, so cozy!
2. What time zone are you in?
Eastern
3. What is your favorite part of the holiday season?
The gift giving. Thinking of my recipient and finding the perfect gift for them.
The socializing. I love being with friends and family doing parties and just hanging out.
The decorating. There's just something about trimming a Christmas tree.
The worshiping. Don't forget what the season is all about.
4. What is your favorite "wintry" drink? (It doesn't have to be an "alcoholic" drink!)
Coffee. Anything coffee.
5. In your opinion, what is the worst job in the world?
Ever watch Dirty Jobs with Mike Rowe? Pretty much any job that he goes to is what I would consider the worst job in the world. And yet, I continue to watch and just am totally grateful he's there and NOT me. :)
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
I'm soliticing your advice. And perhaps qualify myself for Hoarders.
It's no secret that I'm not at all type A.
If there was a type Z, I'd be it....because it's the farthest one can get away from A.
But, I'm desiring some order.
I'm feeling like my lack of organization is starting to affect my ability to think clearly, and find things in a pinch.
Those of us that are over committed do not have time to spend 30 minutes searching for that fundraiser paper...that I totally forgot to sell anything from anyway. Sigh.
Anyway....There are a few areas of my life that really need help. For example:
My kitchen pantries. Now that we're totally in one kitchen, the two pantries have a combination of food, spices, bake ware and serving stuff. There is no rhyme or reason to it, everything just is there.
My papers. I have a filing system, but the papers never do their job by getting themselves in the proper folders. They're just complacent and sit around in piles all day.
Junk drawer stuff. There is no room for a junk drawer in the new kitchen. This breaks my heart. And what do I do that that stuff?!?!?
And...perhaps my ultimate vulnerable moment on this blog. C's old room has become a dumping ground for everything that I choose not to deal with. And now we have a room that looks like this:
Notice the door doesn't even open all the way anymore.
(hangs head in shame)
Since it's only one room, I don't believe that this qualifies me as a person on Hoarders, right?!?!?
I need organizational help. So...here's where I ask for your expertise...what do you use as organization for your house? Is it easy to maintain? I'm looking for any tips you have here, friends!
If there was a type Z, I'd be it....because it's the farthest one can get away from A.
But, I'm desiring some order.
I'm feeling like my lack of organization is starting to affect my ability to think clearly, and find things in a pinch.
Those of us that are over committed do not have time to spend 30 minutes searching for that fundraiser paper...that I totally forgot to sell anything from anyway. Sigh.
Anyway....There are a few areas of my life that really need help. For example:
My kitchen pantries. Now that we're totally in one kitchen, the two pantries have a combination of food, spices, bake ware and serving stuff. There is no rhyme or reason to it, everything just is there.
My papers. I have a filing system, but the papers never do their job by getting themselves in the proper folders. They're just complacent and sit around in piles all day.
Junk drawer stuff. There is no room for a junk drawer in the new kitchen. This breaks my heart. And what do I do that that stuff?!?!?
And...perhaps my ultimate vulnerable moment on this blog. C's old room has become a dumping ground for everything that I choose not to deal with. And now we have a room that looks like this:
Notice the door doesn't even open all the way anymore.
(hangs head in shame)
Since it's only one room, I don't believe that this qualifies me as a person on Hoarders, right?!?!?
I need organizational help. So...here's where I ask for your expertise...what do you use as organization for your house? Is it easy to maintain? I'm looking for any tips you have here, friends!
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Top ten random blessings that give my heart joy.
I need to read a book. I'm not sure what it's called. But, some of my friends are reading it. One is actually listing 15 of her blessings every Sunday on her blog. I think I need to start doing that. But, in the meantime...I thought I'd share them with you today.
1. Good books. Ones that you can't put down, and continue reading...and look up at the clock to realize it's 1am...and you continue to read until you reach the end of the chapter.
2. Loving husband. Can't imagine life without him.
3. A full roll of toilet paper. Or should I rephrase that to say "an un-empty roll of toilet paper."
4. A car that works. Getting me from point A to point B. Nothing fancy, no status symbol, just gears, wheels and a body. It gets the job done.
5. A comfortable bed. A great night's sleep. Nuf said.
6. Camera. New pretty DSLR camera. I am content.
7. A good cry. Sometimes we just need a good cry once in a while. Feels good to clean the ducts out once in a while.
8. Reese's Peanut Butter Cups. Gluten free goodness. Yum.
9. Soft fuzzy socks. Perfect for cold toes. Emphasis on "soft."
10. Under arm deodorant. Allowing mating rituals around the States to continue without repulsion.
1. Good books. Ones that you can't put down, and continue reading...and look up at the clock to realize it's 1am...and you continue to read until you reach the end of the chapter.
2. Loving husband. Can't imagine life without him.
3. A full roll of toilet paper. Or should I rephrase that to say "an un-empty roll of toilet paper."
4. A car that works. Getting me from point A to point B. Nothing fancy, no status symbol, just gears, wheels and a body. It gets the job done.
5. A comfortable bed. A great night's sleep. Nuf said.
6. Camera. New pretty DSLR camera. I am content.
7. A good cry. Sometimes we just need a good cry once in a while. Feels good to clean the ducts out once in a while.
8. Reese's Peanut Butter Cups. Gluten free goodness. Yum.
9. Soft fuzzy socks. Perfect for cold toes. Emphasis on "soft."
10. Under arm deodorant. Allowing mating rituals around the States to continue without repulsion.
Monday, October 24, 2011
WHOLE developments
Well, it happened.
What I've been waiting 10 months for.
I no longer have 2 1/2 kitchens.
I have one WHOLE kitchen.
That's right.
It started on Thursday,
(he took Friday to actually work on other people's homes)
And by Saturday afternoon, I was helping him clean out the fridge and repack it.
Wanna see our new (temporary) kitchen?
Here it is!
Why temporary?
Well, because in a few years, the old side of the house will be torn down, and our kitchen will be expanded.
That wall (in the second picture) will be torn down, and our kitchen will expand another 12 feet.
So, for now....I'm going to enjoy our new cozy little kitchen, and the fact that it ONLY takes me 10 minutes to empty the dishwasher!!!
Friday, October 21, 2011
5QF
This week has been a busy one. I've been an auditor, mom, PTL president, fill in nanny, part time babysitter, car pooler, exerciser, discussion leader, friend, wife, handyperson, maid, cook (moreso than usual), and whatever you need to fill in the blanks or additional hats that we moms wear.
They're all fun hats to wear most of the time, but it certainly fills up the calendar in short order.
Also, I now have 1/3 kitchen and 2/3 kitchen. One of D's customer's doors didn't come in time for his scheduled day, so he had a "free" day. And he chose to work on our kitchen. I now have running water in the new kitchen, but no appliances. And all of our kitchen items are strewn about our old living room. This is a very interesting phase.
And we host our small group this weekend. Awesome.
1. Where do you escape to when you've had enough?
Depends on my mood and what I've had enough of. If it's the family (which really doesn't happen often with my non-type-a-personality), I'll head out to the store for "something I forgot and need to get right away." If it's other people...then I just avoid them for a while. If it's the schedule, well....my body usually tells me when it's had enough by compromising my immune system enough for me to get sick...then I HAVE to take some time off.
2. What shows are you watching this fall?
I really love the Sing-Off. I'm really trying to be careful of what I watch, and what kind of ideals I'm exposing my mind to. I LOVE Glee, but they started tackling big liberal issues...and I'm not a fan of all the extra stuff, but I loved the music...so the sing-off really falls into a great category. I'll watch the Property Ladder at my mom's house on Saturdays...because I can commiserate with them....except for the big payday at the end.
Any other shows I should be looking for? I'm open to suggestions.
3. What was the longest roadtrip you've ever taken and where did you go?
When I was in 5th grade, we drove down to Florida. We split it into 2 days, but it was still a long journey.
On the way home, we drove straight back. 22 1/2 hours in a mini van. I'd like to believe that we did pretty well behavior-wise...but you'd have to ask my mom about that one.
4. Do you plan on taking your kids to Disney World?
We'd love to...sometime soon. But we'll see how that goes. I want the boys to remember it, and I want C. to be old enough to enjoy the rides, etc.
Are we going to be the parents that take their kids once every year? Ummmm, no. I really don't understand that, but to each their own.
5. What is something people would surprised to know about you?
I really don't think there's anything of me to hide....I'm pretty much an open book. If you're new here, you can read this recent post. Hhhhmmmm, something that would surprise people.....
I've always wanted to host a big Halloween party for adults complete with costumes. My friend hosted one a VERY long time ago, and I was an Egyptian lady....It was fun to see what everyone came as, and it was fun to be dressed up! I think D and I would have a lot of fun figuring it all out. :)
Is that surprising?
They're all fun hats to wear most of the time, but it certainly fills up the calendar in short order.
Also, I now have 1/3 kitchen and 2/3 kitchen. One of D's customer's doors didn't come in time for his scheduled day, so he had a "free" day. And he chose to work on our kitchen. I now have running water in the new kitchen, but no appliances. And all of our kitchen items are strewn about our old living room. This is a very interesting phase.
And we host our small group this weekend. Awesome.
1. Where do you escape to when you've had enough?
Depends on my mood and what I've had enough of. If it's the family (which really doesn't happen often with my non-type-a-personality), I'll head out to the store for "something I forgot and need to get right away." If it's other people...then I just avoid them for a while. If it's the schedule, well....my body usually tells me when it's had enough by compromising my immune system enough for me to get sick...then I HAVE to take some time off.
2. What shows are you watching this fall?
I really love the Sing-Off. I'm really trying to be careful of what I watch, and what kind of ideals I'm exposing my mind to. I LOVE Glee, but they started tackling big liberal issues...and I'm not a fan of all the extra stuff, but I loved the music...so the sing-off really falls into a great category. I'll watch the Property Ladder at my mom's house on Saturdays...because I can commiserate with them....except for the big payday at the end.
Any other shows I should be looking for? I'm open to suggestions.
3. What was the longest roadtrip you've ever taken and where did you go?
When I was in 5th grade, we drove down to Florida. We split it into 2 days, but it was still a long journey.
On the way home, we drove straight back. 22 1/2 hours in a mini van. I'd like to believe that we did pretty well behavior-wise...but you'd have to ask my mom about that one.
4. Do you plan on taking your kids to Disney World?
We'd love to...sometime soon. But we'll see how that goes. I want the boys to remember it, and I want C. to be old enough to enjoy the rides, etc.
Are we going to be the parents that take their kids once every year? Ummmm, no. I really don't understand that, but to each their own.
5. What is something people would surprised to know about you?
I really don't think there's anything of me to hide....I'm pretty much an open book. If you're new here, you can read this recent post. Hhhhmmmm, something that would surprise people.....
I've always wanted to host a big Halloween party for adults complete with costumes. My friend hosted one a VERY long time ago, and I was an Egyptian lady....It was fun to see what everyone came as, and it was fun to be dressed up! I think D and I would have a lot of fun figuring it all out. :)
Is that surprising?
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Sneak Peek Photos
We had pictures taken on Monday night (Thanks, RACH!). It was chilly, windy, not as colorful-foilage as we had hoped, and I had a cranky 4 year old...but we got it done.
She sent me some sneak peeks yesterday via Facebook. Wanna See?
She sent me some sneak peeks yesterday via Facebook. Wanna See?
C. with a pumpkin. These were fun little props to have around.
Since it's our 10th anniversary year, we asked Rach to get a few of the two of us.
This is a great shot.
I can't wait to see the rest of them!
(And I hope that I won't want to throttle C. when I see his antics...)
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
Top ten things you may or may not know about me....depending on how long you've read this blog
1. I'm debt free. Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would be debt free growing up. I assumed credit cards would always be a part of my life. Dave introduced me to Dave Ramsey, and I'm so grateful. I can't imagine what our life would be like with credit card payments, car payments or a mortgage. Actually...yes I can. It would suck.
2. I bungee jumped once. Actually, three times- but all within one hour. I went out to visit my brother in the Air Force, stationed in Utah at the time. I brought 2 friends with me on this trip, and we had a blast. I don't regret it at all.
3. I have a dream to travel. I'm addicted to Pintrest, and I have a folder called "pipe dreams." Other than the dslr camera and a 69 red Ford Mustang Convertible....they're all destinations. I just realized this when looking through the folder last night. I think I get this trait from my mom. She loves to travel. As do I.
4. I have a crush on Justin Verlander. Pitcher for the Detroit Tigers. He's a cutie. Dave knows this and is ok with it...as long as I'm respectful, (which I always am!!!). I think he's secretly glad they're off the tv until next spring, though. :)
5. I used to have my belly button pierced. It lasted a few years...until I started an internship in an office and had to wear professional clothing. Most dress pants have a button on the inside. My ring kept getting caught and once actually ripped some skin. When I got home, I pulled out my dad's pliers and pulled that puppy out.
6. I don't consider myself a "trendy" person. Actually, if someone calls me "trendy" I don't take it as a compliment. I just want to be myself, not everyone else. I'd rather be an individual marching to the beat of my own drummer rather than some sheep that looks like everyone else.
7. I hate the dentist. Hate them. Loathe, despise, hate. Really, I do.
8. I've lost 52lbs so far, and still have a long long journey ahead of me. Even though this journey is painfully slow and sporadic, and I have health issues working against me, I figure that if I'm consistent with my choices, I'll get there someday. Perhaps I'll be 45, but I'll get there.
9. I used to not text. This development for me is only 2 years old. I used to think texting was stupid and used as a method to be rude to others when you're texting while they're talking to others. But, now that I have it, I LOVE it. It's totally eliminated the need to make small talk on the phone. Essentially, texting feeds my love of lazy dialog.
10. I am unimpressed by people with a lot of stuff. I'm unimpressed by stuff in general. Name brands don't send me into a flurry of envy. Big houses? Nope, doesn't float my boat. Fancy cars? Not that either. If they need ot have it, that's fine....but it's not for me. I want to get to know people, not stuff.
2. I bungee jumped once. Actually, three times- but all within one hour. I went out to visit my brother in the Air Force, stationed in Utah at the time. I brought 2 friends with me on this trip, and we had a blast. I don't regret it at all.
3. I have a dream to travel. I'm addicted to Pintrest, and I have a folder called "pipe dreams." Other than the dslr camera and a 69 red Ford Mustang Convertible....they're all destinations. I just realized this when looking through the folder last night. I think I get this trait from my mom. She loves to travel. As do I.
4. I have a crush on Justin Verlander. Pitcher for the Detroit Tigers. He's a cutie. Dave knows this and is ok with it...as long as I'm respectful, (which I always am!!!). I think he's secretly glad they're off the tv until next spring, though. :)
5. I used to have my belly button pierced. It lasted a few years...until I started an internship in an office and had to wear professional clothing. Most dress pants have a button on the inside. My ring kept getting caught and once actually ripped some skin. When I got home, I pulled out my dad's pliers and pulled that puppy out.
6. I don't consider myself a "trendy" person. Actually, if someone calls me "trendy" I don't take it as a compliment. I just want to be myself, not everyone else. I'd rather be an individual marching to the beat of my own drummer rather than some sheep that looks like everyone else.
7. I hate the dentist. Hate them. Loathe, despise, hate. Really, I do.
8. I've lost 52lbs so far, and still have a long long journey ahead of me. Even though this journey is painfully slow and sporadic, and I have health issues working against me, I figure that if I'm consistent with my choices, I'll get there someday. Perhaps I'll be 45, but I'll get there.
9. I used to not text. This development for me is only 2 years old. I used to think texting was stupid and used as a method to be rude to others when you're texting while they're talking to others. But, now that I have it, I LOVE it. It's totally eliminated the need to make small talk on the phone. Essentially, texting feeds my love of lazy dialog.
10. I am unimpressed by people with a lot of stuff. I'm unimpressed by stuff in general. Name brands don't send me into a flurry of envy. Big houses? Nope, doesn't float my boat. Fancy cars? Not that either. If they need ot have it, that's fine....but it's not for me. I want to get to know people, not stuff.
Monday, October 17, 2011
A case of the "Mondays"
I got nuthin'
My brain is empty.
Well, it's actually full.
Of many other things than blogging.
There's an old marching band picture on my facebook wall, and it's amazing how many people are writing on it. It's been fun to reconnect with my band-mates. And it's fun now that true things come out...things you suspected about people but never believed because you wanted to believe you lived in a perfect little bubble.
It's been fun.
My friend, Rach, came over tonight to take some family pictures. C. was less than cooperative. He thought it would be funny to be the "odd man out" in all the pics. I hope he gave her something to work with. And I hope my rolls were concealed. :) Thanks, Rach!
It's been fun.
After a short sabbatical, I'm back to writing on the other blog. Actually, I haven't written yet, but I'm starting a monthly series that I'm hoping will produce more motivation for that aspect of my life. It's a fun blog, and I adore the ladies I'm working with....so I'm hoping this will continue for some time.
It'll be fun.
I'm working on an audit that I cannot balance.
That's not fun.
My brain is empty.
Well, it's actually full.
Of many other things than blogging.
There's an old marching band picture on my facebook wall, and it's amazing how many people are writing on it. It's been fun to reconnect with my band-mates. And it's fun now that true things come out...things you suspected about people but never believed because you wanted to believe you lived in a perfect little bubble.
It's been fun.
My friend, Rach, came over tonight to take some family pictures. C. was less than cooperative. He thought it would be funny to be the "odd man out" in all the pics. I hope he gave her something to work with. And I hope my rolls were concealed. :) Thanks, Rach!
It's been fun.
After a short sabbatical, I'm back to writing on the other blog. Actually, I haven't written yet, but I'm starting a monthly series that I'm hoping will produce more motivation for that aspect of my life. It's a fun blog, and I adore the ladies I'm working with....so I'm hoping this will continue for some time.
It'll be fun.
I'm working on an audit that I cannot balance.
That's not fun.
Friday, October 14, 2011
5QF
Tigers won last night!!! And it was hottie night in Tiger Stadium (Verlander and Inge.) Honestly, I don't know how much more I can take....but it's fun to be cheering on a team. The boys are really getting into it too. C. is enjoying the numbers, and A. is just obsessed with baseball. And cute booties in tight polyester pants are pretty awesome.
1. Do you prefer your ice cream in a bowl or in a cone?
Based solely on health alone...I have to go with a bowl.
But I do miss the waffle cones.
2. What three things do you love the smell of?
Oh gosh....you're gonna think I'm crazy for this.
Do I dare tell you?
Ok....please don't think I'm weird!
Gas. Freshly blown out matches, and anything baking in the oven.
To help you think I'm NOT crazy...I prefer the latter one.
Does that help?
3. Giftcards or no? (In regards to gift giving...)
Unless its been asked for, or it's for a service...I really don't like giving gift cards. One of my love languages is "gift giving." I really like thinking about person and figuring out the perfect gift for them.
What's weird, is that I prefer gift cards as a received gift from time to time. I like going and picking out exactly what I want or need. And then I can bargain shop, and get even more for it. Unless that person thinks about the gift they're giving and know it was something I would use/want.
4. What sports did you play in high school if any and do you still play them?
BWAHAHAHA! No, I was not a jock.
5. Were you in band in high school? What instrument did you play?
I was in marching band, but played no instrument. I flipped my flag in the color guard. Those are my best memories of high school- where I made the best friends- ones I still stay in touch with, where I felt the most like myself. Perhaps that's one of the reasons I love fall so much. :)
Happy weekend!
1. Do you prefer your ice cream in a bowl or in a cone?
Based solely on health alone...I have to go with a bowl.
But I do miss the waffle cones.
2. What three things do you love the smell of?
Oh gosh....you're gonna think I'm crazy for this.
Do I dare tell you?
Ok....please don't think I'm weird!
Gas. Freshly blown out matches, and anything baking in the oven.
To help you think I'm NOT crazy...I prefer the latter one.
Does that help?
3. Giftcards or no? (In regards to gift giving...)
Unless its been asked for, or it's for a service...I really don't like giving gift cards. One of my love languages is "gift giving." I really like thinking about person and figuring out the perfect gift for them.
What's weird, is that I prefer gift cards as a received gift from time to time. I like going and picking out exactly what I want or need. And then I can bargain shop, and get even more for it. Unless that person thinks about the gift they're giving and know it was something I would use/want.
4. What sports did you play in high school if any and do you still play them?
BWAHAHAHA! No, I was not a jock.
5. Were you in band in high school? What instrument did you play?
I was in marching band, but played no instrument. I flipped my flag in the color guard. Those are my best memories of high school- where I made the best friends- ones I still stay in touch with, where I felt the most like myself. Perhaps that's one of the reasons I love fall so much. :)
Happy weekend!
Thursday, October 13, 2011
My kid sucks this thumb....or I should say suckED!
Anyone who has ever met C. from 8 weeks on knows that the boy loves his thumb.
Heck, when he was 8 weeks old (and sleeping through the night), I loved his thumb.
When he woke in the middle of the night and needed a "fix" he just popped the thumb in and went back to sleep.
A. was much different. He had a pacifier....the lost that pacifier every night. So, I'd put 4-5 in there with him, and he'd loose them too. It was a very sleep deprived first year.
So, we were grateful for C and is ever-loved thumb.
Until he wouldn't give it up.
After 2, we started hounding him about it. At 3, we were trying gentle coaxing, yelling, discipline, etc.
Nothing was separating that boy's mouth from his thumb.
Everyone said that once he started preschool, the social pressure would cause him to quit on his own. We waited a whole year....and nope....he was still sucking.
Then he turned 4!
And was still sucking his thumb.
Then we went to his first dentist appointment a month ago.
I knew she was going to say something about his overbite.
I was hoping she would be stern with my boy.
No such luck. But she did write something on a piece of paper for me to get.
Malava.
That's what she wrote.
So, I looked it up. It's actually called Malava Stop.
Heck, when he was 8 weeks old (and sleeping through the night), I loved his thumb.
A. was much different. He had a pacifier....the lost that pacifier every night. So, I'd put 4-5 in there with him, and he'd loose them too. It was a very sleep deprived first year.
So, we were grateful for C and is ever-loved thumb.
After 2, we started hounding him about it. At 3, we were trying gentle coaxing, yelling, discipline, etc.
Nothing was separating that boy's mouth from his thumb.
Everyone said that once he started preschool, the social pressure would cause him to quit on his own. We waited a whole year....and nope....he was still sucking.
And was still sucking his thumb.
I knew she was going to say something about his overbite.
I was hoping she would be stern with my boy.
No such luck. But she did write something on a piece of paper for me to get.
Malava.
That's what she wrote.
So, I looked it up. It's actually called Malava Stop.
I painted it on C's thumb nails (both for good measure- just in case he's an ambidextrus thumb sucker), and he stopped! It has a VERY bitter taste in the polish, and really tastes like what I imagine a skunk smell would taste like. Really, it's awful.
It wore off after 5 days (during the bath). I just reapplied it again, and off we went.
Now, after 20 days, I believe he's kicked the habit!
I applied it 3 times so far, and hope I'm done with it for good!
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
Brain Purge
- I had a dentist appointment today. I hate the dentist. I really hate the dentist. I've been known to throw up on them (nerves), and occasionally bite. And one time I pushed the hygienist out of my mouth and walked right out of the office. Somewhere in my home town, there's a purple star on a chart with my name on it. Yep....I'm a "special" patient. I spent all night getting sick.....to find out my dentist is ill today. Really?!?!?
- I watched my friend's kids for a while last night, and I watch my other friend's kids tomorrow night. Let's just say, now more than ever, I'm convinced that God knew what he was doing when he gave me boys. Totally grateful.
- I've been sleeping funky and am in need of a good back massage.
- My dear friend, Melody, took me to the Melting Pot for dinner last Friday night. I'm STILL thinking about it and it's yummy gluten-free-ness. Seriously....best.meal.ever. I'm already trying to figure out how to get back there.
- A. doesn't have school on Friday. C. still has preschool. It's worked out so that I don't have to drive either way on Friday....so, off to school he goes. :)
- Am I the only person in America that's horribly annoyed at the Obamas? Seriously....they talk, and I wish I was deaf. ((shudder))
- How is it fair that on GNO nights, I still have to make dinner for the rest of the clan?
- U of M and MSU square off this weekend. Can't wait to kick some green hiney!
- I'm feeling strangely zen-like about turning 35. I'm really enjoying life right now, and I'm loving where I'm at. I feel a lot of gratitude, and am really comfortable in my own skin. It's taken me 35 years to honestly say that last part.....and I'm loving that I can say it.
- With great nutrition, I'm finding that my fingernails are stronger and growing longer. How did I realize this? I went to bite one, and about cracked a tooth. Bad habit, I know.
- My cousin is getting married in November. I'm trying to figure out how to get there and what to do with my kiddos.
- I wish there was a naptime for adults. I think the world would be a much happier place.
- I watched my friend's kids for a while last night, and I watch my other friend's kids tomorrow night. Let's just say, now more than ever, I'm convinced that God knew what he was doing when he gave me boys. Totally grateful.
- I've been sleeping funky and am in need of a good back massage.
- My dear friend, Melody, took me to the Melting Pot for dinner last Friday night. I'm STILL thinking about it and it's yummy gluten-free-ness. Seriously....best.meal.ever. I'm already trying to figure out how to get back there.
- A. doesn't have school on Friday. C. still has preschool. It's worked out so that I don't have to drive either way on Friday....so, off to school he goes. :)
- Am I the only person in America that's horribly annoyed at the Obamas? Seriously....they talk, and I wish I was deaf. ((shudder))
- How is it fair that on GNO nights, I still have to make dinner for the rest of the clan?
- U of M and MSU square off this weekend. Can't wait to kick some green hiney!
- I'm feeling strangely zen-like about turning 35. I'm really enjoying life right now, and I'm loving where I'm at. I feel a lot of gratitude, and am really comfortable in my own skin. It's taken me 35 years to honestly say that last part.....and I'm loving that I can say it.
- With great nutrition, I'm finding that my fingernails are stronger and growing longer. How did I realize this? I went to bite one, and about cracked a tooth. Bad habit, I know.
- My cousin is getting married in November. I'm trying to figure out how to get there and what to do with my kiddos.
- I wish there was a naptime for adults. I think the world would be a much happier place.
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