Bilingual

When I was younger I always wanted to be able to speak a different language. I thought it was so cool. So, instead I would just gibber away in my own made up language. My sister and I thought it was so funny to talk back and forth in our own language. We would do this in the car, walking through the grocery store, anywhere really. I am sure that everyone knew that we weren't really speak another language, but hey...we sure thought we were tricking them.

Today, we were running errands after church. TW came back to the car after running in somewhere and he proceeded to blurt out a sentence of gibberish. So, I just figured I would respond back. This turned into us having a conversation in our own language. This went on for a few minutes. It was hilarious to see the kids' reaction. They totally bought it! YESSS! The more they bought it the more we did it. It was so funny! When we finished AA asked what we were talking about and we just played it off.

Let me know if you try it out on your own kids! :)

Christmas Top 5

My friend QueenBusick blogged about her Christmas Top 5, so I thought I would do the same!

1. Our goal this year was to simplify Christmas and put more emphasis on giving to others, especially those in need. I feel good about the things we were able to provide for others and how involved our kiddos got in the whole process. We filled shoe boxes for kids over seas, we provided a new outfit for a boy in Malawi so that he could attend school, we donated gloves at AK's school for kids in need, AA took two toys to her school for the Toys For Tots campaign, TW's office sponsored some kiddos from a local Christian and we shopped for the gifts as a family, we helped a friend make it a better Christmas for her kiddos, and most of all we tried to reflect the love of Christ to all we came in contact with.

2. Thanks to some of our family members making some changes to their normal Christmas routine/tradition we were able to get home earlier on Christmas eve so that we could attend church, and then we were also able to be home most of the day on Christmas. It was so nice! The kids didn't have to rush around and instead could enjoy their presents. It was a lot more relaxing!

3. While the focus was on giving this year, I did receive some pretty great presents! My brother-in-law and sister-in-law gave us a pretty thoughtful/creative gift. She had noticed, by reading my blog, that TW and I enjoy going to coffee shops on our date nights. So, she did some research (by calling one of my best buds) and got us a gift certificate to the coffee shop and then also called our nanny and arranged for two hours of babysitting! How thoughtful! I got lots of "comfy" stuff this year as well like new PJs and a soft robe. TW got me some really stylin sunglasses and a new video camera. As soon as I learn how to use it I will be able to post videos for your pleasure. :) QueenBusick and 40before40 got me a teapot...and it whistles! I love it! Hmmmm...what else. How could I forget...a new plasma TV which will be great for family movie nights!

4. Lots of fun times with family and friends! We played lots of games this year with the family...it was great! Cranium, Catch Phrase, and Rock Star.

5. Watching the kiddos interact and play with each other! The kids usually exchange presents with one another. Most of the time I pick up something for them and then tell them what they got each other. Well, this year Addi was playing on the computer. I walked into the kitchen where she was playing and she was on the Build a Bear website shopping for her sister and brother. She was so excited! She couldn't wait for them to arrive! Then one night tucking her in to bed she said, "I am so anxious for AK and Bubby to get their presents I bought for them!" I loved watching it from the sidelines!

A Small Peek Into Our Lives

I hope you had a Merry Christmas!

AA received the High School Musical Sing It game for our Play Station. Christmas morning the family played it together...it was a blast. Now, to let you in on a small secret. TW has been down there playing the game "with" AA this morning. We are supposed to be picking up the house and I keep hearing him down there singing. I have even caught him down there without AA. This is very typical for our house. Just thought the picture of that in your mind might bring a slight giggle and grin to your face.

Happy singing!

Track Santa

Keep up with Santa's location at http://www.noradsanta.org


Enjoy!

Let the Celebrations Begin

Our Christmas celebrations have officially began. Last night we had a dinner for TW's work and tomorrow we have our first family gathering. We will also go to dinner and then to the MU vs Illinois basketball game with my family. This has been a tradition as long as I can remember. Then Sunday and Monday will be with TW's family. Back home Christmas eve for church and Santa. This year we are changing things up for Christmas day. We usually go to my parent's house, instead they are coming to our house for brunch and to hang out, along with my sister and her boyfriend. We will then head south to spend time with my extended family. I think our last Christmas gathering is on Dec. 29th. Whew! That is a lot of celebrating and a lot of traveling, but we wouldn't miss a beat of it! What are your Christmas traditions?

Exactly Why I Say Merry Christmas!

So, this time of year I get really frustrated by this whole Happy Holidays term that is being thrown around now. The whole reason for this season, unless you are Jewish, is the birth of Christ...hence CHRISTmas. Offices are closed for Christmas, schools are closed for Christmas, restaurants are closed for Christmas, gas stations are closed for Christmas, heck almost everything stops for Christmas! If you drive through a seemingly otherwise busy town on Christmas it could be mistaken for a ghost town. I understand that not everyone shares my belief that Christmas is the time we celebrate Jesus' birth, but a majority of the country does celebrate some part of Christmas, even if it is time with family or time to stop and relax. So, why is it that we have to say Happy Holidays? Since when are people so touchy that you can't say Merry Christmas?
So, when I was sent an email with the following videos, the whole thing just got stirred back up for me.

You will need to pause the music that is playing on the right hand side of the screen before watching the videos.

Disclaimer...I had never heard of Mike Huckabee before I posted my last video with him. And, now I got this video sent to me with him in it as well. So, I am not like a die hard Huckabee fan, although I am starting to like the guy, it just happens that I keep seeing his videos.

A Wonderful Weekend

Have you ever had one of those really great weekends? We did this past weekend. There was no huge event that made it so great, and maybe that is exactly why it felt so great. Friday night the girls performed, along with their team, at my parents' Christmas party. After leaving there I dropped AA off at a birthday sleepover and we headed home. Saturday morning we woke up to the most beautiful snow falling! I loved sitting at the kitchen table, drinking my coffee, watching it snow. It looked so peaceful! We, as a family, then ventured out in the snow and headed to the mall. TW's idea of the right amount of time at the mall and my idea of the right amount of time at the mall are apparently way different. :) He was getting restless along with bubby so we ended at Target doing some shopping for some kiddos we sponsored for Christmas. Then it was back home. We all had some quiet time and I got a quick little nap in. The girls and I then made peanut butter balls and then we had family movie night. Sunday morning we headed to church and then went to eat. Back home we headed in hopes of making a snowman family, but the snow wasn't quite the right consistency for making a snowman. So, instead we headed back inside to decorate ginger bread houses. AA and I teamed up and TW and AK teamed up. Fun times! Then off to my parents' house for a quick dinner and back home for another family movie night.

It was fun. Many times I felt myself living in the moment and just taking it all in. I knew that one day I would look back at those memories and miss them, so I made the most of each moment. I hope you find time in this busy season to slow down and enjoy the moment!

Turkey Day Pictures...Way Past Due

After sharing with you the experience of cooking our first Thanksgiving meal, I thought I should share some pictures of the experience.

The BEST Gag Gift for Christmas

This past Friday was TW's work Christmas party. We have had it at our house in the past and this year decided to have it at a local restaurant. Much less stress for me! It was a great time! We always have a "Rob Your Neighbor" gift exchange. This year my sis' boyfriend opened up a GREAT gift. It was a pooping reindeer jelly bean dispenser. Absolutely hilarious and ingenious!

I had to go out and buy some to give out to people for Christmas. I have made this new friend, Bylerbabe, and she is so fun to be around! I would love to give this to her, but I know she will read my blog before I get a chance to give it to her...she has been sick so I have been banned from her. :( She might be one of the funniest people I know, so I felt like I could get one up on her by giving this to her. So, LB, this post is to you babe! Second best to having the reindeer in real life!

The pooping reindeer can be purchased at Wal Mart! Go get you some! (Yes, I know that wasn't grammatically correct, but I had to add my country twang to that statement!)

How is your Shopping Going?

Whew! I am worn out. Yesterday some of my friends and I were supposed to go to KC to do some Christmas shopping. This is an annual trip that we do and it is always fun. Well, we had to cancel due to weather and kiddos being home from school. So, I headed to some stores here in town to get some more stuff marked off of my list. I was at it from 11 to 5:30pm. Shopping is hard work! And, you probably think I am joking, but I am not. Searching for that right gift for the person on your list is not always an easy task. I have a majority of my shopping done. I still have a few gift cards to buy and some cologne from Bath and Body Works...requested...and our Bath and Body Works hasn't been carrying that cologne. So, I am on a hunt for it. I am completely done with the kiddos! Now, the fun part...shopping for TW. I have the most fun shopping for him. I have some ideas, but will probably head out on Friday to shop for him. This evening I tackled the next process in the gift giving phenomenon...the wrapping. Another tiring task. No, I am not complaining...I love each stage of the process, from the shopping to the wrapping, to the giving. But, I think that TW doesn't realize that it is hard work. He just sees the dollar signs. :) Bless his heart. I am feeling quite good about my progress though. I tackled a majority of the shopping yesterday and now it is all wrapped. AK helped me wrap this afternoon. The kids have been home all week from school because of "weather", that is another story, so when she came down and wanted to help I thought to myself..."This could go a lot quicker without her help, but use this as a time to bond with her." So, I made the most of it and we had fun together. And...it didn't take as long as I thought it would. Then, tonight after the kiddos were in bed I finished up the wrapping. Whew! My back is a little sore from leaning over and my eyelids are barely open, but the work is done. At least until I finish the shopping. :) I love to see the presents under the tree!

Breakfast with Santa

This weekend our dance studio hosted a Breakfast with Santa at our local Applebees to help raise funds for our competition season. Although it was a wet,cold morning we had a great time and a pretty good turnout! It was fun to work the restaurant business for a brief time. The parents, mostly moms and one brave dad, took over the restaurant. We were hostesses, waitresses, bus boys, and even cashiers. Applebees provided the cooks. It was a fun, warm family environment! What a great group activity!

Well Said!

A Pain Turned Pretty

I absolutely love the excitement of the season. I have been thrown off a little bit this year with my decorating because of our trip out of town over the Thanksgiving holiday. Usually I would spend that weekend decorating the house, putting up the tree, and getting the lights put up outside. This year was different. I have had the house done on the inside but just today got the outside lights finished up. TW and I were going to do it this weekend, but the rain didn't allow for that. So, I was left to do it alone. I could have waited until this weekend for his help, but I wanted the lights up...I am already feeling behind. So, I spent almost three hours today working on the lights. Christmas lights can be so frustrating. I would take the strands and plug them in before putting them up to test them and they worked. Then after I put them on the tree and plugged them in...didn't work! I felt like Clark Griswald on Christmas Vacation. I could hear the background music playing in my head. So, I pulled that strand down and started over. Same thing happened again. Grrrrr! Needless to say I got very frustrated at some points wondering why I even bother with all of this. I don't know if it is more frustrating getting all of the lights placed just right and then dealing with lights that don't work, or trying to figure out how to get all of the extension cords to work together. You would think the Christmas Light manufacturers would have this figured out by now...can't they make it easier for them all to connect together???!!! I finally got it all working and even have them on timers. We will see if they go off tonight when they are supposed to and then come back on tomorrow evening. When we pulled back into the house tonight after a meeting I remembered why I spend all of the time putting up the lights. It looked so pretty. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder though. :) Maybe it looks so pretty to me because of the hard work I put into it. I am certain you can't appreciate the lights near as much unless you have some invested time in the decorating process.

Our Family Song

Throughout this year TW and I have really been trying to set a new vision for our family. He has spent time teaching me how to form my own vision and we have studied and discussed what it is that we want to focus on as a family in terms of values, behaviors, and purpose. We have formed a purpose statement, values and definitions (which help guide our behaviors), and a vision statement. TW downloaded the song The Blessing by John Waller. It really resignates with our vision for our family. In no way are we living the words of this song perfectly. However, it is what we are working towards. This is our heart for the way we want to live. I hope you enjoy the song!

You will need to pause the music player on the right hand side of the page before playing the video!

My Mizzou Girls

Our girls paricipate in competition dance and they recently had their first performance. This picture is from their dance "Stray Cat Strut".

Failure

M-I-Z BEAT-K-U

WAHOOOOOOOOOOOO! Go Tigers! I have been a Tigers fan since I was ten years old and I can't remember near as much excitement in Tiger history in quite some time. For those of you who don't follow the MU Football team, last night was a HUGE game. Not only did we play KU, our biggest rival, but we were also playing to move onto the Big 12 Championship game and to most likely be ranked number 1 in the country. I still can't get used to saying Mizzou and number 1 in the country in the same sentence. It is so exciting! The fam. is still in Colorado and last night we were all around the TVs in pure anticipation and nervousness. We had goose bumps, high fives, screaming, yelling, cheering, running around the room, falling to the floor, and everything else you can imagine. Cheering on the Tigers is a family tradition. I can still remember back to the Bob Stull days, a former coach, when the football team was pretty much horrible. A-B, my sis, and I would go to the games and make forts with our blankets under the bleacher seats because there was no excitement in the game. What a long way the Tigers have come! Cheers to Coach Pinkel, the staff, and the talented players!

First Turkey Dinner

We are currently in Colorado with my family celebrating Thanksgiving and enjoying the slopes! Beings that my parents aren't big on cooking, my sister's boyfriend and I took on the task. This is the first ever Thanksgiving dinner I have been a main contributor of! TW cleaned the turkey the night before and then BL prepped the turkey following a recipe that we have found on the Food Network's website. Thanksgiving morning we relaxed and some of us did some skiing. Our goal was to have the turkey in the oven by 2 so we could eat at 6:30pm. Well, 6:30 turned to 7:00 and then 7:00 turned to 7:30 and well you get the idea. We didn't end up eating until 8:30pm, but it was delicious. It was the most moist turkey I have ever had! The problem was that the door to the oven was not shutting all of the way causing the turkey to cook slower. All is well that ends well, and that was exactly what happened. It was tasty! I have some pretty funny pictures of the meal prep that I will have to post when we get home. I hope you each had a wonderful Thanksgiving!

Crappy Situation

So, I haven't blogged in over a week and not two in one day. Whew!

This child never ceases to amaze me. I walk in to Bubby's room to get him up this morning and what do I find? Poop. I find a pile of poop. Smack dab in the middle of his crib. He took his diaper off and then proceeded to drop a load in the middle of his bed. That's not it. Then I look up to notice he has smeared some of the poop onto the wall. I now pause and ask myself, like the hundredth time, would the girls have ever done this...NO, NO, NO, HECK NO is what I tell myself. After cleaning him up I roll the crib out to wipe it down and realize that he has also peed all over the wall. Now, do I think he did this just to make me mad? NO. Does it still gross me out and make me nauseous? YES! Yet another reason why boys and girls are different. Hope your morning isn't as crappy as mine. :)

The Kids and I Were Bored...

So, we put together the following for your enjoyment!

http://www.elfyourself.com/?id=9551793558

When I Say "I am a Christian"

Today our pastor read this poem by Carole Wimmer and I so connected with it. There are times in our society today when Christians get misread because of their faith. For me being a Christian is about saying I can't do this life on my own. I can't face the challenges of my day without God! It is never about pride or self-righteousness, it is about laying my life before him to give me the strength I need. I hope each one of you connects or learns something from this poem. It gave me a whole new perspective.

When I say, “I am a Christian”
When I say, “I am a Christian,” I’m not shouting “I've been saved!” I’m whispering, “I get lost! That's why I chose this way”

When I say, “I am a Christian,” I don’t speak with human pride, I’m confessing that I stumble - needing God to be my guide

When I say, “I am a Christian” I’m not trying to be strong I’m professing that I’m weak and pray for strength to carry on

When I say, “I am a Christian,” I’m not bragging of success I’m admitting that I've failed and cannot ever pay the debt

When I say, “I am a Christian,” I don't think I know it all I submit to my confusion asking humbly to be taught

When I say, “I am a Christian,” I’m not claiming to be perfect My flaws are far too visible but God believes I’m worth it

When I say, “I am a Christian,” I still feel the sting of pain I have my share of heartache which is why I seek His name

When I say, “I am a Christian,” I do not wish to judge I have no authority -- I only know I’m loved

Family Movie Nights

We have a new tradition we have started with our family. Every Sunday night we have "movie night" where we all cuddle up on the living room floor and watch a movie together. It has been something we look forward to every week. TW has been finding us some great movies that are values based. The first one he just kind of fell upon at the movie store. "Facing the Giants" was our first family movie night premiere. Great movie! A movie about a football coach and what he has to overcome to turn the team around. The next week we watched "The Sin Eater." AK had fallen asleep early, thankfully, and AA made it through. Another good movie, but scary for younger kids. It ends up being good and warm, but has scary parts. Then we started the Love series based on the books by Janette Oke. It is a series of four movies and we just found out that the fifth one comes out in December...YES! "Love Comes Softly", "Loves Enduring Promise", "Loves Long Journey", "Loves Abiding Joy". The new one that is released on Dec. 4th is "Loves Unending Legacy." We are patiently awaiting its release. :) Most of these movies are through Fox Faith, christian and family movies everyone can enjoy. Last night we watched one of my favorites thus far..."The Ultimate Gift." WOW! Great movie! It really puts life in perspective. The soundtrack is awesome as well. Check out the website http://www.theultimategift.com/ I hope you check out one, a couple, or all of these movies. They have sparked great conversation for us and the kids. It is so nice to know that there are still appropriate movies that promote the goodness of life out there in this ever increasing negative world.

November...already?

I can't believe it is already November. September through the end of December is my favorite time of the year. In fact after Christmas I kind of go through this slight funk knowing that the time I cherish has just ended and now life goes on for nine more months before I get that season again. For me to realize that it is already November makes me want to stop and live every moment. Slow down! I keep thinking to myself. Aren't the trees so beautiful? Here in our town they are just gorgeous right now. What a great gift from God...the beauty of his creation. I try to take in every color of every tree knowing that in a couple of weeks those leaves will be gone. The bright red is my favorite...what is yours? I will leave you with some pictures of my adorable, I'm not biased at all, kiddos last night for Halloween! AA was a Queen, AK was Dorothy, and JD was a Pirate...and no we didn't prompt him to make that face...and yes his nose and forehead are scraped up. He fell in the driveway while we were playing outside. He is all boy! Never a dull moment!

The Old Retired Taxi Driver

A few posts back I talked about "Car Chat" and in that I had said that my mom wrote a poem about all of her years of driving my sister and I to our activities. She emailed me the poem this morning and I thought I would share it with you.

Although I am glad she (my sister) will be able to drive soon, it is also a very sad time for me. . . . my taxi and carpool days are over! I put in a good 20 years (from the time Household Executive was born until the time AM was able to drive). 20 years, whoa, that seems weird. So, that means I am a retired Taxi driver? Although the monetary pay was not good, I would highly recommend the job to anyone. For the rewards are priceless.

The Old Retired Taxi Driver
I wouldn't trade anything in the world for:
The conversations I have heard in my Taxi,
The laughter that bellowed out loudly,
The sneaky little giggles,
The excitement shared when news of a possible boyfriend developed,
The hushed whispers of secrets too private for Mom to know about,
The joy, the fun, the grumpiness, and silence so thick you could cut it with a knife.
The spilled drinks, and the spilled tears.
The tears caused by disappointments, school frustrations, mean boys, and catty girls.
The tears left me feeling helpless and inadequate as I would search for ways to help my passengers.
The wheels of my Taxi turned daily for 20 years.
The pay I received was awful.
The rewards I received are priceless memories.



written by Big Mama*
November 13, 1999


*name has been changed to protect the identity :) And, yes she goes by Big Mama...pretty funny considering she is 5'1".

Menu Plan Monday

Well, over the weekend I have gotten a touch of the stomach flu, so I haven't really felt like eating. But, the fam must eat so I must serve. Not really if I felt bad enough I would call something in. :)

Monday: Lasagna (had in the freezer)

Wheat bread

Asparagus

Tuesday: Carmelized Pork Chops (have had these in the freezer and they were on the menu previously but we never got around to eating them)

Wild Rice

Wednesday: Homemade Vegetable Beef Stew

Thursday: Date night

Friday: Out to eat (we have a function at church and kids will be with sitter)

Saturday: Out to eat

Sunday: Chicken, Mushroom, and Wild Rice Casserole

Dear You

My friend does these "Dear You" entries on one of her blogs and I really like reading them. So, I will try it here. I think the idea is that you write a "Dear You" to someone in your life or someone you encounter throughout your day. Basically an anonymous way to share or vent your feelings. Most of which will never really get to the person you are taking to.

Dear You,
Thank you for your kindness today. I have never been in and out of the Dept. of Revenue in less than ten minutes. And, I have never had someone as nice as you. What a relief! The major shocker...I didn't have my inspection ticket with me and you still let me get the car registered. WOW! Huge thanks to you!
Sincerely,
Mouth hitting the floor that I was in and out in less than 10 min.

Dear You,
Why did you not show up for your child today? Almost all of the kids had a parent there and the look in her eyes waiting for you to come to the door just broke my heart. I was there for her while you weren't. I don't even know her, but I tried to make her feel special. I sure hope you have a good reason for not being there.
Sincerely,
Heart broken

Dear You,
If you are going to smoke on your break, please brush your teeth before clocking back in.
Sincerely,
Shopping while plugging my nose

Dear You,
You are turning into such a great young lady! I am proud of you!
Sincerely,
Grateful

Dear You,
Thank you for accepting me as your own! You have filled a role in my life that I have never truly had!
Sincerely,
Grateful

Dear You,
Your smile brings me such joy!
Sincerely,
Grateful

Dear You,
You wear me out. I have never experienced anything like you. You wear me thin but steal my heart at the same time. How can you make so many messes in such little time? I could eat your cheeks and kiss them over and over.
Sincerely,
Head over Heels

Menu Plan Monday

It seems I have every intention of following my menu that is planned for the week and then during the week things start to come up and I am not able to follow the plan as I had intended. So, I will post this for the week and there is little "at home" eating because we are busy with evening activities.

Sunday: Jeremy's chicken
Baked Beans
Green Beans

Monday: Creamy Potato Soup
Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

Tuesday: Chicken and Rice casserole
Peas

Wednesday: Out to eat

Thursday: Lasagna

Friday: Out to eat

Saturday: White Castle Burgers or Out to eat

Sunday: Chili

Cheat Sheet

Fall is in the air...well, almost. The weather man says that this week it is supposed to be in the upper 50's, so we will soon be leaving this summer like weather behind us. So, Fall will be in the air and football is definitely here! Nothing I love more than football on the TV, candles burning, cuddled up by the fire, with a warm pot of chili cooking in the kitchen. Well, there are probably a lot more things I love more than that, but you get the drift. It is something I really enjoy! Something I have noticed and has really peeved me this football season is the quarterbacks who wear their play lists in some form of booklet on their arm WHILE playing football. I can't even believe this is allowed. Isn't that a form of cheating. I don't think I have ever seen a HS quarterback wear one of those silly things, but this college season I have seen my fair share of QBs wear them. Come on...if you can't get those plays memorized then bring in the second string guy, I bet he has every play memorized forward and backward. I think the "cheat sheet" really discredits these guys and I think it looks darn right stupid when you see them going to the huddle flipping through their plays. I would have a lot of confidence in that guy...NOT! I am sure that one of my friends, SS, that played football in college could maybe give me a good reason for these guys to wear their "cheat sheets", then again I can hear him making fun of them right along with me. So, for now everytime I see a QB flipping through his plays while on the field during a game I will have to make fun of him.

Car Chat

I know that my mom has always said that she learned so much about us, my sister and I, as far as what was going on in our lives while driving us around in the car. She even wrote a poem about it titled Taxi Driver. She is out of town right now, but when she gets home I will try to remember to post it. AA and I were talking on the way to dance this evening when I had yet another "Out of the Mouths of Babes" moment.

AA: Mom remember when Auntie told us that she swam in that fountain. (Referring to a fountain in front of an office complex at a busy intersection in town)

Me: Yes.

AA: Are you supposed to swim in that fountain?

Me: No.

AA: Ohhhh, she must have been in high school when she did that.

Me: She sure was.

AA: Yep, goes you do naughty things in high school.

Me: Well you're not supposed to do naughty things in high school.

AA: Sometimes you just have to break the law. (With a little mischeveous look on her face)

Hmmmmm. What does this mean for her teenage years? Could be interesting!

Update

Just a few updates on some past posts...

1. The BBQ went well. I got everything done that needed to be done, ahhhhhh.

2. The "Are you a slacker mom" quiz has got to be fixed somehow. Everyone that I know that has taken the quiz comes out as a Zen Mom. My sister in law caught on to this early. I didn't think I was the "calm" in the middle of a storm to my family. It must be an advertising ploy to make moms feel better about themselves so that they'll buy whatever product it is that they were advertising throughout the quiz. It boosted my self esteem...briefly, but I certainly didn't buy their product just because they told me I was a Zen mom.

So Much to do So Little Time

I really feel like posting a funny or inspiring entry on my blog today, but instead all I have is my many "to-dos" running through my mind. So, for my benefit I will list those so that I have a track to run on today. Some are bigger tasks then others, but none the less they have to be done.
1. Get my butt of this chair and get dressed.
2. Get my kids ready for school.
3. Pack their lunches.
4. Take AA to school and the younger ones to Mother's Morning Out.
5. Come home and start picking up the house. We have a BBQ here tonight for TW's office so EVERY room has to be picked up. Not a lot of stuff in every room, but still something in every room has to be done.
6. Get my hair colored.
7. Go to the grocery store to buy stuff for tonight.
8. Pick up kids from Mother's Morning Out.
9. Back home and put the little ones down for a nap.
10. Continue to pick up the house and back patio.
11. Decorate the deck with lanterns.
12. Clean off the furniture on the deck.
13. Prepare cooler with bottled water to take to...
14. Go to team building event with TW's office.
15. Oh yeah, still don't have a babysitter for that. Need to find a sitter. This needs to be moved to #1.
16. Back home to start getting the food and drinks ready for the BBQ.
17. Entertain our guests.
18. Put kids to bed.
19. Clean up after the BBQ.
20. Ahhhhh, Bed! :)

Slacker Mom?

I was reading my friend's blog and saw that she had taken the quiz "Are you a slacker mom?" I have seen this quiz advertised before, but I never took it. Well, she got my curiosity ticking so I clicked on it and took the time to do the quiz. My results:

Zen Mom
How do you do it? Even when explosions are all around, you are able to take a deep cleansing breath and chant your mantra "this too shall pass." You are a calming influence on your kids in a hectic world.

Not really sure this is true of me though. Hmmmm. I will have to ponder that some more!

www.areyouaslackermom.com

Menu Plan Monday

So, the last week's menu didn't pan out as well as I thought. Life got busy and we didn't eat at home as much as I thought. We will see how it goes this week!

Monday: Move over Rachael Ray Salmon (this is my new name for the dish, it is the salmon I posted about a while back)

Tuesday: Crock Pot BBQ chicken, baked beans, peas

Wednesday: Jeremy's favorite (this is a pasta dish and very easy to make!) and garlic bread

Thursday: date night

Friday: Company BBQ at our house

Saturday: out of town

I had a request for my recipe for homemade White Castle burgers. I make this like a sloppy joe consistency.
2 lbs. of hamburger
2 packets of dry onion soup mix
American cheese

Brown the hamburger and drain. Sprinkle two packets of soup mix over hamburger and add three to four tablespoons of water. Mix and let simmer for five to ten minutes. Add in slices of american cheese until you get the consistency you like. Serve on buns.

Power of Prayer

The following is an email I had sent out to some friends last Thursday following a horrible day. You never know what is going to happen when you wake up!

As the kids and I were headed out the door for me to take AA to school and then for the rest of us to go to Bible Study our morning took a quick change for the bad. Bubby had gotten his shirt wet while he was eating breakfast, so I took it off of him and threw it in the dryer. I finished getting everything packed up and then took him out to the car. I sat him in his car seat and noticed that I had not put his shirt back on him. For some reason that I will never know or forget, I didn't buckle him in his car seat. I sat him there and then turned to go get his shirt out of the dryer. At this point my Denali is parked in the garage and his car door is probably fifteen feet away from my dryer which is right inside our door. As I turn my back to him and head to get his shirt I heard Addisyn scream. I turned around to see Bubby laying on the concrete garage floor. He had fallen out of the car onto the ground. My heart started racing. I picked him up expecting to see blood, but didn't. He cried for a very short amount of time. I couldn't find a bump on his head anywhere. He got very disoriented and started to get pale. I am now cuddling him frantically trying to call KK to ask her what to do and to get my girls to her, all while trying to find his shirt in the pile of shirts inside the dryer. I rush over to KK's house, right around the corner, and drop off the girls and then head towards our pediatricians office. On the way to the Dr's office Bubby threw up and his eyes were rolling in his head. At this point I got frantic and hysterical. I called TW and he left the office to meet me at the Dr's office. We went into the Dr's office and our Dr. was not in yet, he was still at the hospital checking in on the newly born babies. After waiting with the nurse at the office TW and I decided to head to the hospital because Bubby was getting worse. While at the Dr's office I called KK and asked her to go to the prayer room and pray for our little guy. While on the way to the hospital he projectile vomited and became extremely groggy. I was even more hysterical and completely scared. I was trying to keep him awake by tickling him. He would smile but could barely get his little eyes open. I took him into the ER with throw up all over him so now all over me. They got him back in a room right away. As soon as we got into the room in the ER he made a huge turnaround. He was suddenly alert and looking around, smiling, pointing, and engaging with us. For some reason I remember looking at my watch and it was around 9:20 or 9:30. This would have been right around the time that the faithful prayer warriors would have been leaving the prayer room to head into the morning study. This was a GOD MOMENT for sure! I didn't put all of those pieces together until after leaving the hospital. But, there is no other explanation for his complete turnaround other than the Grace of God! Our pediatrician came to the ER and examined him and even suggested that we didn't need any tests ran, but being the anxious ridden gal I am I insisted they do a CT scan to be sure everything was okay. They did the CT scan and everything was normal. Praise God! We walked away with a slight concussion and a happy baby. Oh, how easily it could have ended up differently. The amazing power of prayer and God's loving and healing hand is my complete explanation of our good news. This will be something that I will never forget. A true miracle I believe. How great is our God! I am just in awe of him at the moment. Trust in the Lord for he is good. That was my lesson learned along with ALWAYS buckle in the baby. :)

It was a long emotional day. Feelings of guilt have come and gone and come and gone. I will never forget what my poor baby looked like in that hour of hysteria for me. It is a picture that seems to be haunting me at the moment. But, I must concentrate on the good.

I cannot thank each of you enough for your prayers! It saved my baby! The very fact that I knew I had the greatest friends and a room full of ladies that would be praying for our little guy was something I took comfort in during all of this crisis. That is all I kept telling myself "get someone to that prayer room, get someone to that prayer room!" I don't even think I asked KK to go to the prayer room, I am pretty sure I demanded she go! :) Community is great and I am thankful for each and every one of you!

Menu Plan Monday

Monday: Beef and Broccoli with Rice

Tuesday: Caramelized Onion Pork Chops with Brown and Wild Rice

Wednesday: out to eat; date night

Thursday: Parmesan Chicken with Bow Tie and Broccoli Pasta

Friday: Crock Pot Hamburgers, Asian Slaw, and Baked Beans

Saturday: Football tailgate

Sunday: Move Over Rachael Ray Salmon or White Castle Burgers (homemade)

We are on Oprah Tomorrow!

Like you have probably read we went to the Oprah show earlier this month. The show that we saw while we were there will air tomorrow, Friday. TW and I are in the very front row. Be sure to watch and look for us!

Family Fun

We have been thinking of new ways to spend time together as a family in order to form a deeper bond with one another. We have done movie nights, bowling, game night, and our most recent adventure was a family bike ride. TW loves cycling. Before bubby was born he would spend a lot of time cycling, but now with three kiddos the free time doesn't come as easily. Cycling takes a lot of time so in order for him to do what he loves, he had an idea of involving the family with his love of the sport. Last weekend we borrowed my parents' tandem bike and we rented a tag along (a bike with one wheel that connects to the back of our bike) for AA to ride and a trailer that would connect on behind her for AK and JD to ride in. So, get that in your mind! Picture all five of us going down the trail like one big train. After about 20 minutes of TW getting all of the bikes/trailers/accessories hooked together we were ready to go. But, oh wait...we (TW and I) have never ridden a tandem together just the two of us, never mind the fact that we are now trying it with our three kids hooked on behind us. We walk our "train" up onto the trail and get everyone situated. TW counts to three and we start to pedal. We didn't get two feet! We couldn't get going anywhere, we couldn't balance, and the handlebars of the bike were swirving back and forth. To try to put this comical situation into words is hard, but I am trying the best I can. The four people who were resting at the picnic table and bench sure did get a humorous show! So, TW counts to three again and we start to pedal. Again...we make it less than two feet. At this point I am laughing hysterically, TW is getting extremely frustrated, and AA is crying. What a range of emotion! I can't remember the last time I laughed that hard! I am laughing out loud just thinking about it. So, after some communicating and problem solving we try again. No luck! We weren't going to give up! We kept talking it through until finally we got the "train" moving. Wow, never knew you could learn so much about yourself and your spouse by riding a tandem together. Communication was key! Problem solving was key! Handling emotions properly was key! Trust was key! The main thing I had to face was my need to control every situation. I had to relinquish control. Wow, what a lesson. It was cool! We rode for about 10 miles to a stop that has a restaurant. The family had dinner and then we hopped back on the train. We rode almost back to our starting point stopping on the way at a spot that overlooks the river to do a family devotional. Then back on the train and back to the car. It really was a great time together! We are going to try to do this more often, hopefully at least once a week. Try to think of some new ways you can spend time together as a family. The memories you make will last a lifetime! My challenge to you: make family a priority this week; take the time to truly connect. See if there is any difference in behavior. Shine on!

The Shining

So, Tuesday was a rough day...and I didn't handle it quite like I wish I would have, but sometimes we/I let the frustration get the best of us. Just as I had written my blog entry complaining about my day from hell I click on over to my pal Tina's blog and after experiencing a frustrating day herself, she had written an entry quite the opposite of mine. It was great and it hit me with some conviction. As a Christian God calls me to reflect his character at all times, yes even when I can't find a Dr. to see me and I am carrying around a poopy toddler. Even then I can be a witness of God's love to others. See sometimes we screw it up and let the flesh get in the way of our heart for God. But, the part I rejoice in is the fact that I was even aware that my approach could have been different. Self awareness is an amazing discovery! One that I have been working hard at. I think self awareness leads to true authenticity of character. Tina's blog sure did help me give this idea of how my actions can reflect God's heart a visual. She posted a music video on her blog and wow, it is pretty impactful. Matthew 5:16 tells us, "Now that I've put you there on a hilltop, on a light stand - SHINE! Keep open house; be generous with your lives. By opening up to others, you'll prompt people to open up with God, this generous Father in heaven." How will your actions or attitude affect others today?
In order to hear the video you need to pause the music player on the right side of your screen.

Can Somebody Get this Lady a Doctor?

Beware: lots of complaining to follow...but could potentially still be funny!

This morning was not how I planned for it to go to say the least. I have been fighting a cold, strep throat, and now a cold again for the last three and a half weeks. Last night TW and I had a class at church and before we left I was so congested that my ears were clogged up. I couldn't hear real well, but could hear myself talking loud and clear. If you plug your ears and then talk at the same time this is how I sounded to myself. Really annoying! Then I woke up this morning and my left ear was hurting pretty badly. I decide to tough it out. Well, not for long because the pain got worse, so then I change my mind and decide to call the Dr. Here is where the frusration begins. I call my family Dr. and the receptionist says she will have to call me back. Hopeful I am thinking! Maybe she is trying to squeeze me in this morning. That would work great because bubby has a Dr.'s appt. this morning as well so I could just go right after that. No such luck. She calls back and in her happy-go-lucky voice says, "We could get you in tomorrow afternoon at 4:00." I almost laughed. Are you serious lady? Do you know how much pain I am in? Do you realize I can't stand to hear my annoying voice like this? And, everything I am hearing is blurred and mumbled jumbled together so my toddler and my baby's talking now sound like a foreign language to me. Forget that, I don't need your services I will get help elsewhere (little did I know the joke was on me). Then I call our pediatrician, great guy and has seen me before when I was sick. Oh no, it is Tuesday. His only day off is Tuesday. Of course, I would be sick with an ear infection on a Tuesday. So, I go to the convenience clinic, they really should change the name of that to, "Come hear because you don't have another option clinic so because you are at our mercy we will make you wait for as long as we please Clinic". I unload the two youngest kids and in to the clinic we go. We wait in the waiting room for one hour. Still no sign of my name being called. Bubby at this time also has a poopy diaper and I am out of wipes. Gross! I ask the receptionist how close they are to calling my name and she informs me that there are still three people in front of me and that they only have one doctor in, so it would probably be at least another thirty minutes before they took me back and then I would have to wait longer in the room to see the Dr. AHHHHHHHHHH, noway! I left! I was sick of chasing my son around the waiting room and smelling his poopy diaper. So, one hour wasted in the waiting room of a not-so-convenient clinic, and I still don't feel better. Oh yeah, minor detail I forgot to add in. Bubby's Dr.'s appt. was with and ENT to check his ear tubes. I begged the Dr. to look in my ear to let me know what was going on. He said there was lots of fluid in it and probably bacteria growing. He would treat it with an antibiotic. However, he didn't offer to write me a script. So, going through all of this I KNOW I have an ear infection I just can't get anyone to treat it. Oh I was so frustrated! What does it take to get a Dr. to see you? So, tomorrow I am going to the pediatrician to get myself some meds! Hope your day was better than mine! :)

What you have all been waiting for...

Or, maybe not but here they are anyway. Pictures from our Oprah trip. There aren't very many because as soon as you enter the studio they confiscate your cell phone and camera. And, remember we were there less than 24 hours so not many photo opportunities.

No more complaints...for now

Remember a few weeks back when I was complaining about how dang hot it was here...no more complaints from me. It is absolutely beautiful here! The high on Saturday is 68 degrees; that is the high! YIPEEEEE! I am in hog heaven. I love to wear jeans and this is the perfect weather for them. One of my favorite things is to go outside and take a deep breath and smell the season of fall coming upon us. When we walked out of church on Wed. night AAP said, "it smells so good out here." She summed it up. The cool, crisp air feels so good on my skin. Oh, I could go on and on about how much I love this time of year. Next time you walk outside take in a deep breath and smell the scent of the season.

The Big O!

Bet I caught your attention with that title! :) I love Oprah and have watched her for some time. I am not a faithful, daily watcher of her program, but I do like to watch it when I get the chance. I record it on our DVR and watch the ones that interest me. I have always wanted to go to her show, but just never knew how to get tickets. This past July TW and I celebrated our fifth wedding anniversary and he got us four tickets to the show. AWESOME! I was so excited to be going! Much thought and preparation went into this less than 24 hour excursion to Chicago. The lady I booked the tickets through, who works for Oprah, said not to wear beige or white because it doesn't show up well on camera. I had also heard to wear bright colors. One gal told me that someone she knew went to the show and wore a really cute, bright colored outfit and the producers whisked her away and down to the front. So, my search began for the perfect outfit. Now why is it that when you are out at a store not really needing a new outfit you see tons of things you like, but when you go out shopping for a specific event you can't seem to find a dang thing. Well, maybe this only happens to me, but it yet again happened the day I set aside for finding my "Oprah outfit." No luck! I found TW a new, stylin shirt but nothing for me. So, later in the week I decided to visit one of my favorite little boutiques in town. I don't shop here as often as I would like because it tends to be pricey, but I figured for Oprah I could go all out. The owner of the store was in and she helped me pick out a few things to try on. I found a dress that I loved and it wasn't near as much as I thought I would have to spend. Later this same day I went to pick up a car for TW to test drive so the bag with the dress in it was with me in the car we were test driving. Later in the evening TW took that car back and ended up putting the bag with my new dress in it down into my daughter's dance bag in my car. Are you following me here? This was on a Thursday. The next morning I woke up with strep throat really bad and didn't think about the dress until Tuesday, the night I was leaving for Chicago. It was time for me to buy some shoes and jewelry to go with the dress so that I could pack up and leave town. Where is the dress??? It was no where to be found. I should also back up to mention that on the Thursday I bought the dress and the Friday I was sick we were getting new carpet installed so our house was a disaster zone. So really this dress could be anywhere! I was frustrated because I knew days or even months later I would find this dress, but at the moment when I really needed it I couldn't find it. So, back to the shop to buy another one. I got the dress then headed to find shoes and jewelry. Pulled in the driveway at 6:00pm ready to pack and head out the door by 6:30pm. We had Parent Preview night at AAP's school that night and then we headed to the airport to fly to Chicago. I invited two of my best friends to go with us, so they met us at the airport. Thanks to Big Daddy (my Dad) we flew on my parents' plane to Chicago. We got in about 10:30, ordered room service, which cost an ungodly amount of money, and went to bed by midnight. Up at 5:15am to get ready for the big morning! We all got dressed in our "Oprah outfits" and headed to the show. After waiting on long while in a waiting area our numbers were called to go be seated in the studio. K and L, my friends, got down the stairs before TW and I. We got stuck behind an older, bigger lady who took a while to get down. The minute K and L entered the studio the producers pointed to them and wanted them in the front row. K had on a really bright shirt and they looked cute of course. The producer asked how many were in their party and they said four, but then it took forever for TW and I to get down there. So, by the time we got to them there were only two seats left in the front and then two off to the left but still in the lower section. So, K and L were seated in the front and TW and I off to the left. K and L graciously switched us seats. Something I never considered or expected at all! It was so sweet of them, see why they are two of my bestest friends (they are very thoughtful)! So, TW and I ended up sitting in the very front row and we were probably six feet away from Oprah! They announce the topic and it wasn't one that I was particularly interested in...transgender kids. I was hoping for "Oprah's favorite things" of course, or a really cool celebrity, but oh well. It ended up being thought provoking to say the least. The weird thing was there wasn't like any grand entrance. Instead the audience coordinator was talking to us and then all the sudden she says, "She's on her way" and we all stand up in anticipation of her. We were never prompted to clap or yell or anything. She walks out and addresses us, the audience, and then goes right into the show. First impression, I hate to say, Wow she looks really bad. Her eyes were really swollen and she had big bags under her eyes. It looked like her and Stedman had been up all night or something. I wondered if she looked like this everyday and the camera does wonders, or what the deal was. Today when I watched the season opener she looked great, so we will see when our show airs what she looks like on this side of the camera. Best part of the trip...Oprah told me, "Love the shoes!" Oh yeah! Wow, probably one of the best compliments I have ever received. WOW! That puffed me up a little bit. :) There was also a point during one of the commercial breaks where her and I had an interaction. Super cool! How will I ever repay K and L??? When the show was over she spoke to the audience for a couple of minutes and as quickly as she came out she was gone. AWESOME experience, I would do it again in a heartbeat. We then headed to lunch and then back to the airport to fly home. We were gone less than 24 hours. Oh yeah, I was cleaning the girls' room...I found my dress pushed down inside of AKP's dance bag!

Goosebumps

I'm Baaaaack!

Not like my normal self to go so long without blogging, however I did notice that no one seemed to be concerned about my absence. :) Just kidding! I have had a lot of things going on keeping me off of the computer. The main one is that I got strep throat really bad last Friday. It had me out of commission until Tuesday. Bad thing...I'm not so hot at taking my antibiotics (missed three doses) so I am starting to have a sore throat again. TW is not going to like that. He really stepped up to the plate while I was down and out. Now AKP has it and JDP is showing signs of getting sick, runny nose and fussy. I also made a trip to see Oprah with TW and two of my best friends. More details on that soon! And, today AAP had surgery to fix all of her dental problems. I blogged about her cavities quite some time ago, and we finally got the work done today. She had the procedure done at the hospital and did pretty good. She is just like her mama, a nervous wreck and questioning the doctors with every move they make. God love her! So, today we spent the day resting and watching movies. Now, family movie night...in which I anticipate I will fall asleep within the first half hour of the movie! Stay tuned for more Oprah details!

Thursday Thirteen

This morning I woke up early to do my Bible study, I try to do this daily but that doesn't always happen, and I was able to join TW at the dining room table during his quiet time as well. In between our studies we had some good discussion. And, even when we weren't talking it was just nice to be sitting next to each other in the quiet house studying God's word. So, in honor of our morning together I will share Thirteen things I love about TW...

1. His outgoing yet approachable personality.

2. He is caring and wants the best for those he loves.

3. His dedication to me and our three children.

4. His love of the Lord and spiritual leadership in our home.

5. His work ethic. Although I do complain that he works too much at times, I do admire this about him!

6. Okay, this is a silly one but I love it. The fact that most times he is asleep when I crawl into bed, yet he NEVER complains or even says a word when I cuddle up to him and place my ice cold toes in between his legs to warm them up!

7. His ability and willingness to relationally connect with the kids daily.

8. Our silly times together dancing and singing around the house.

9. He strives to be better everyday.

10. His ability to connect and share on an emotional level with me. Yes, again one that I complain about at times...he often wants to process feelings more than I do, but what a gift that is! A lot of women yearn for this out of their man!

11. He gets me a coffee every morning!

12. He tolerates me! That is a big one!

13. His continual desire to learn more. He is a life long learner.

These are just a few...I could go on and on!

Click here to see other Thursday Thirteens!

Wordless Wednesday - Bubby's First Birthday

Menu Planning Monday

So, I know these posts may be boring for you all...as I have said before. But, it helps me hold myself accountable to what I have planned on cooking for the week.

Monday: Roast with noodles over mashed potatoes and Peas
Tuesday: Jeremy's chicken (chicken marinated in lemon, rosemary, garlic, and red pepper
flakes), breaded tomatoes, and cottage cheese
Wednesday: Brad's (my sister's boyfriend) Pork Tenderloin (don't have the recipe yet)
sweet potatoes, steamed broccoli
Thursday: Mexicali Pie
Friday: Out-Holiday weekend

High School Musical 2 Review

***I was wrong. It is the song "Bet On It" that cracks us up!

I have been wanting to do this post for a couple of days, but haven't gotten around to it. I must say that my review of the movie a few days ago would have been much different than the review I will be giving you today. We are avid High School Musical fans here at our house. We all know the songs, characters, and some of the lines from the movie...yes even TW. AAP and AKP attended a party to watch HS Musical 2. We didn't end up watching the movie until after we picked the kids up and put them in bed. The first time I watched it I was not a fan. However, the more it is on at the house the more I like it. It plays at least once a day on our TV. There are still somethings in the movie I could do without. Sharpay's attitude is taken to a whole new level in this movie. She is one materialistic, self absorbed, brat! Definitely NOT someone I want my daughters being exposed to. I am not sure if I am more appaled over the lyrics to the song Fabulous or at the way she treats her parents...well treats anyone for that matter! Glad to see her somewhat humbled by the end of the movie. Hopefully if there is a HS Musical 3 she can stay resectable and they can all get a long. Yeah, right. :) The whole scene to the song Work It Out just cracks me up. TW and I couldn't stop laughing at Troy. Very cheesy!

Fabulous:

Sharpay-
Its out with the old and in with the new,Goodbye clouds of Gray, hello skies of blue.
A dip in the pool, a trip to the spa
Endless days in my chaise
The whole world according to moi
Excuse Me Thank You
Iced tea imported from England,
Lifeguards imported from Spain,
Towels imported from Turkey,
Turkey imported from Maine,
Sharpay and Ryan-
We're gonna relax and renew,
Sharpay-
You, go , do!
I want fabulous,
That is my simple request,
All things fabulous,
Bigger and better and best,
I need something inspiring to help me get along,
I need a little fabulous is that so wrong?
Fetch me my jimmy choo flip flops,
Where is my pink prada tote?
I need my tiffany hair band,
And then I can go for a float.
Ryan and Sharpettes-
A summer like never before
Sharpay-
I want more!
Ryan and Sharpettes-
She wants fabulous,
That is her simple request,
All things fabulous,
Bigger and better and best,
She needs something inspiring to help her get along,
She needs a little fabulous is that so wrong?
Fabulous pool,(eww) fabulous splash,(read my lips)
Fabulous parties even fabulous trash,
Fabulous fashion,(no) fabulous bling,(yeah)
She's got to have fabulous everything.
Ryan and Sharpay-
Nothing to Discuss
Everything's got to be perfect.
Sharpay-
For me
Ryan-
She wants fabulous,
That is her simple request,
All things fabulous,
Bigger and better and best,
She needs something inspiring to help her get along,
She needs a little fabulous is that so wrong?
Sharpay-
This won't do, that's a bore,
That's insulting, I need more!
I need, I need,I need, I need,I need, I need
I Need FABULOUS!
I want fabulous(FABULOUS)
Sharpettes-
Fabulous Hair, fabulous style,
Fabulous eyes and that fabulous smile.
Sharpay-
I like what I see,I like it a lot
Sharpettes-
Is this absolutely fabulous?
Ryan-
Fabulous, Fabulous, Fabulous?
Sharpay-
Absolutely... NOT!
Ajouté par

Show Off

God has been showing off...in a good way...here at our house lately. Often times when someone says you are showing off there is a negative connotation around the phrase. But when it comes to God it can be an amazing thing. I often pray for God to "show off" for me. Well, he has been doing just that lately! A few nights ago TW and I were sitting on the front porch while bubby was playing in the yard and we were enjoying the birds. TW can even talk to the owls. :) He does a mean owl call and the owls respond. It is pretty cool. He said that the morning before when he was pulling out of the drive way there was a huge owl perched up on top of our house. How often do you see something like that? While watching the birds TW said that he wished we had a blue jay that would come to our feeder. Now, if you remember right I have shared my new found love of birds and that we have a bird feeder and hummingbird feeder in the backyard. We have never had a blue jay at our feeder! This morning, I kid you not, there were three blue jays that were hanging out on our deck and eating from our feeder. They were there all morning. They are some mean looking sun of a guns! Beautiful, but mean looking. And, as far as my hummingbirds that I thought had left. They are back in full force! One of the little guys is going to get fat...he sat there and chugged from the feeder for a long time; and he did this multiple times. Plus there were several cardinals visiting us today as well. We were so delighted! To top it off when I came out of HyVee tonight there was the most amazing sunset! I stopped right in my tracks and took a picture of it. I then noticed that everyone else in the parking lot was just going on about their business and they totally missed this amazing art. God was showing off and I stopped long enough to notice. By the time I had the car loaded the sunset was gone. Just that quick. I could have missed it! How many times in a day does this happen? We just go on about our busy lives and don't notice the gifts right in front of us! Take time today to notice something new and beautiful around you.

Happy First Birthday Bubby!

Move Over Rachael Ray

I have gotten back into cooking more regularly for my family. Thanks to the Menu Planning I have been doing, and posting some of them, I have been more creative and consistent with my cooking. This week I went out on a limb and decided to try a salmon recipe. This is going out on a limb because I don't like to cook fish. It scares me...that I won't get it done enough. Bema, TW's grandma whom I have taken as one of my own, gave me a Rachael Ray cookbook for Christmas and I was looking through it for some new ideas. I ran across a picture for the Lime - and - Honey Glazed Salmon with Warm Black Bean Corn Salad. Not normally a fan of black beans but this looked really good. So, I added this to the menu. Not only was it delicious when I cooked it, but it was so pretty as well. It had so much flavor! Wow! I was proud! :)

4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 medium red onion, chopped
2 large garlic cloves, chopped
1/2 to 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 teaspoon ground cumin
Salt
Pepper
Juice of 2 limes
3 tablespoons honey
1 teaspoon chili powder
4 6-ounce salmon fillets
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 10oz. box/bag frozen corn kernels, defrosted
1/2 cup chicken stock or broth
1 15oz. can black beans, rinsed and drained
2 to 3 tablespoons fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (I left this out)
6 cups baby spinach (I left this out)

Preheat a medium skillet over medium heat with 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil. Add the onions, garlic, red pepper flakes, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 3 minutes.

While the onions are cooking, preheat a medium non-stick skillet over medium-high heat with the remaining 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. In a shallow dish, combine the juice of 1 lime, honey, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Add the salmon fillets to the lime-honey mixture and toss to coat thoroughly. Add the seasoned salmon to the hot skillet and cook until just cooked through, about 3 to 4 minutes on each side. (I added the lime-honey mixture to the skillet as well and cooked it for 8 minutes on each side...it was cooked just perfect temp.)

To the cooked onions, add the bell peppers and corn kernels and cook for 1 minute. Add the chicken stock and continue to cook for another 2 minutes. Add the black beans and cook until the beans are just heated through. Remove the skillet from the heat and add the juice of the second lime, the cilantro, and spinach. Toss to wilt the spinach and then taste and adjust the seasoning. Serve the lime-and-honey glazed salmon on top of the warm black bean and corn salad.

Heat Wave

Warning: This entry is one big complaint!

I am totally disgusted by the heat we have been having. I can't stand it...in fact I hate it, yes TW I know hate is a strong word. :) For one, you wake up in the morning to look outside and see a beautiful sunny day with clear skies. I want to get out there and enjoy the beauty of the world that God has given us. But, I open my door and almost get knocked over by the intense heat. It is like walking out into thick air. Your body can't move as good and geez, if I could only take a deep breath. You know it is going to be a hot day when it is already above 85 at 9:00am. I just watched the news...9:18pm it was 90 out and with the heat index it feels like 102 they said. That is just sick and wrong. And, the depressing part...actually I can't decide if it depresses me or just angers me...is that it isn't supposed to let up until the end of the week. Oh and get this, you wanna know what let up is...instead of being over 100 it will only be in the mid 90's. Wow, cool! NOT! And my poor yard. It looks like we live in the middle of the desert. I want to start watering, but that sure seems like a lost cause now. I am trying to patiently await the cooler, Fall weather. But, I must say my patience is running low. I am already in Fall mode here inside the house. I bought all new candles from Pier1 that are the Ember scent, a nice fall aroma. And, I am keeping it very cool in the house. In fact I am covered up with a blanket right now. I love that. I love the cold weather. I am one of the wierd ones that LOVES when it snows and it is hard to get around town. I love that! BRING IT ON!!! I think I will have to get some more patience for that though. :) Hope you are finding ways to stay cool.

Complaint session over!

13 of my Favorite Things

1. Coffeemate's Hazelnut creamer
2. Origins Ginger Body Cream
3. Quiet time in the morning before the kids arise. This one rarely happens because I am much more a night person, but I love my mornings on the deck with my Bible and a cup of coffee.
4. Autumn. The weather and the beauty of the changing earth.
5. A cozy fireplace on a cold, Winter afternoon.
6. A big warm sweater.
7. The sound of a baby laughing.
8. My bus. This is what I refer to my Household Executive SUV as. It has everything I love in a car. Comfort and style.
9. Sleeping in the car while traveling; of course when TW is driving. :)
10. Downy's Wrinkle Releaser. I am notorius for putting a load of laundry in the dryer and then leaving it there for hours or even days. This spray comes in handy when trying to get the wrinkles out without having to iron.
11. Easy Weeknight Favorites cookbook from Southern Living at Home. Definitely easy recipes and ones that my family love!
12. Oatmeal Carmelitas! This is a dessert from a local bakery/restaurant. I frequent this restaurant several times a week. They have three locations and one is about 20 seconds from my house. This dessert is absolutely amazing!
13. Salsiccia Baked Mostaciolli from a local pasta joint in "The District". Mmmmmmm! It is delicious as well.

I think I know what I am doing Friday night...dinner of Salsiccia Baked Mostaciolli followed by an Oatmeal Carmelita.

Mrs. Green Thumb

Every year I buy hanging plants to hang on our front porch. We have kind of a "country front porch" with the rocking chair and all. So, I love to hang plants in the Spring to add color to the house. I also buy some flowers to put in some pots in the front of the house and a couple for the back deck. Well, it never fails that these flowers start to die off by early to mid-July. The heat starts to get to them and I forget to water them as frequently so they suffer and eventually die resulting in me throwing them away. Well, it is officially Aug. 6th and all of my plants are still alive (except for one very small plant that didn't make it)! I LOVE it! I think we are going to make it through to mum season! Yes!

On a side note...Mrs. Green Thumb has a tip of the day for you. I enjoy when TW buys me fresh flowers. I asked to get frustrated when they would only last a few days, even less sometimes, before they started wilting away. One day we were buying some flowers and the florist told us when we got home to cut the stems at a diagonal and then place them in a vase with equal parts of water and Sprite. Odd, but it works! Seriously! I have had flowers that TW got us for our anniversary that are lasting well past a week! It helps lengthen the life if you change the water/Sprite mixture everyday and re-trim the stems occasionally as well!

Sing a New Song

I saw this clip on Patti's blog and it cracked me up! I was literally LOL! I think I will take her new approach to disciplining at those times when I don't know what else to do. I have learned that lightening up the environment is best for you/me and our kids. I just might have to memorize this song.

Menu Plan Monday

Sunday:

Grilled Fillets
Sauteed Mushrooms and Onions
Corn on the Cob
Cottage Cheese

Monday:

Roast, Potatoes, and Carrots in the Crock Pot
Applesauce

Tuesday:

Lasagna
Salad
Garlic Toast

Wednesday:

Ribs
Green Beans
Cottage Cheese

Thursday:

Leftovers

Friday:

Pizza

Saturday:

Italian Mac-n-Cheese from the Freezerchicks

We Still Know How to Have Fun

TW and I had a great getaway for our anniversary! We connected on so many levels...what a true gift! I planned our getaway to Hermann because it is somewhere I have always wanted to go, but just never took the time. When we got into town we got a massage at a spa there in town. I had made the appointments prior to arriving. We then checked in to a wonderful bed and breakfast...awesome view! Hermann Hill Inn. I highly recommend it. The service is awesome and the place is very nice. A lot of little extras. They have a coffee machine available 24/7 where you can brew yourself a cup of flavored coffees and teas. A large library of DVDs, VHS, and books to borrow from. Complimentary glass of wine upon check in. Two free bottled waters. I could go on and on. After checking in and getting a tour of the place we got ready for dinner. We ate at Stone Hill Winery's restaurant and enjoyed some German food. After some great laughs due to reminiscing about our earlier days, great food, and a nice glass of wine we headed back to the B&B. We picked out a couple of movies from the library and retired to our room. At 9:30pm the innkeeper delivered two heart shaped chocolate chip cookies, more like a gooey scone, and a scoop of ice cream to our door. This is yet another complimentary service to every guest. YUMMY! We purposefully didn't order dessert at the restaurant in anticipation of this treat. We then popped in the movie, only to turn it off 20 minutes later to go to bed. This morning TW woke up early, like usual, and spent some quiet time on the deck off of our room and I joined him when I woke up. Although I am not a morning person I love to sit outside in the morning to do my Bible study while drinking coffee and listening to the sounds of the world. We then headed to the kitchen for breakfast. We chose to eat outside on the deck. This was our first experience at a B&B so eating with other people that you don't know was an interesting experience. At first I was not too hyped about it, but it ended up being kind of fun. We then checked out and took a scenic drive eventually ending up at a coffee shop. Here we spent two and a half hours brainstorming our family vision, mission statement, values, and goals. It was a great time sharing ideas and helping one another sift through our thoughts. We still have some work to do to finalize things, but we got a good start. At the coffee shop we spoke with the owner about different types of coffees and learned some about the coffee making process. It was interesting for me. TW really enjoys a nice cup of coffee, no Folgers for him, so it was interesting for me to learn more about it. After our planning session we headed to a quaint spot for lunch that served BBQ. Very tasty! We then headed home. We will definitely be back to Hermann in the future. We had a memorable time!

Happy Anniversary Baby!

Today TW and I celebrate five years of marriage! Quite a feat in todays world! We have already experienced so many joys and trials together and those have only made our love stronger. TW's committment through each of these periods definitely amazes me; I am so blessed! He truly is a gift from God. My love for him is stronger today than the day we married. We will whisk away to a Bed and Breakfast for a couples massage and dinner tonight and then tomorrow we are going to spend some time planning for our future. We are putting together a Vision, values, and purpose statement for our family. I am excited for the time together! Cheers!