Me and Mine

Pinterest...so fun...so amazing!!

2011-07-14T11:11:00.002-04:00

So I joined Pinterest yesterday...Thanks Bec!! and it is so much fun!! It's basically like a bookmark holder with pictures. Anything you see on the web you "pin" to boards. I'm in love!!

The server that holds my "world" at work was down this morning so I whiled away the time on Pinterest and pinned my little heart out.

If you want to play too, hit me up, and I will sent you an invite.

Telling on myself

2011-06-27T10:26:00.002-04:00

Okay, I have to tell a funny story on myself.

Last week, I ordered Chinese takeout on my way to pick up the kids at daycare. I knew I had a long night ahead of me and didn't want to take the time to cook and clean up the kitchen afterwards.

I get to daycare, pick up the kids and head over the the restaurant. We walk in and the guy behind the counter looks for our order and it is not done yet so we sit and wait for a bit. He helps a few customers and then tries to figure out why our order isn't finished.

Guy behind counter, "When did you call your order in?"

Me, "About 15 minutes ago."

Guy behind counter, "Are you sure you called it in here?"

Me, "Ummm..." Check phone, Oh, crap! I called my order in to the restaurant all the way back across town..the side I just came from!!

YeeKee, Ru Yi...see how easy it was to mess that up?!

So, I call the restaurant to see if maybe they could just cancel the order...I'm trying to save time here remember. Nope...they have already cooked my order. We drive all the way across town (15 minutes in traffic) get there and I hand them my card to pay.

Guy behind this counter, "We don't take cards, cash only."

Me, "Seriously?!"

I herd the kids back into the van and drive to the nearest ATM and pull out my cash, drive back to the restaurant, get my food and get back in the van. My gas light is on!!

By now it has been 1 hour since I ordered my food!!!!!!!

We head towards home and stop at the gas station to fill up and no joking, I'm serious...the first pump I pull up to is out of service!

I was talking to one of my girl friends on the phone and telling her my story and we were both laughing our heads off...did I actually think something wouldn't have gone wrong at the first pump I pulled up to! She was laughing extra hard because this was a day that never happens to me...usually she is calling me with the crazy stories!

We finally make it home and the food was tasty...I was really worried about it to after the episode I had. To top it off by the time we got home and ate...I could have just come home straight after work and cooked, cleaned and did everything else and it would have taken the same amount of time!

The rest of the story

2011-06-20T08:22:00.002-04:00

Thursday was our last full day at the beach. The morning started out by raining but we figured it would end soon so we walked down to Kate's again (can you tell we liked it!!) and when we were done it looked pretty stormy out so we walked back to the house and hung out for a while. We did lunch at the house and then hit the beach. We stayed there for a while and Jeff, Cheryl and I all ended up with burns...ouch!!

We had supper at Michael's again...their steamed crab legs were so good!! So much work but it worth all the effort!

Friday we had breakfast at Kate's for the last time and headed out. We said goodbye to the ocean until next year. We decided to stop off for the night at Knoxville again and even stayed in the same hotel because it was so nice. We made a pit stop in Sevierville at Smokey Mtn Knife Works where Jeff picked out his father's day gift. He got a really nice Case trapper pocketknife.

Saturday we started with breakfast at Cracker Barrel and then hit downtown Knoxville to check out Mast General Store. This place is very cool. We let the kids pick out a few things...Kailyn got a diary and a bracelet that matched one I bought and Camden got a wooden pocketknife and an airplane. Cam's knife has been a huge hit, he has played with it non stop since he got it.

We finally made it home around 430. We were unpacked and almost all the clothes washed by 630.

Day 5

2011-06-16T19:43:00.003-04:00

We started with breakfast at the house and followed that up with a trip to the beach. It was very cool out but I was amazed at how warm the water was and we still managed to have lots of fun.

We had lunch at Charlie's boardwalk subs and then had snowcones and Jeff bought some nasty Jelly Belly's. They were mixed up barf, centipede, dog food, booger, baby wipes and toothpaste which was mixed in with the good flavors. The kids and I mixed our own bag and I found out you should always do that yourself because I bought $20 worth of Jelly Beans by the time we were done!! We ended up back at the bench when we were done.

Somehow Jeff and Cheryl both managed to lose their sunglasses in the ocean. I'm not sure how since Jeff had already lost his once but found them and we all made fun of him...then they both end up losing theirs one right after the other and both said afterwards...I didn't think the wave was going to be that high.

I managed to build my sand sea turtle that I build whenever I go to a beach. I'm not sure why but I've made one every time. The kids built many sand castles because it was too windy/chilly for them to play in the water and they had a blast building and then demolishing them.

We came home and everyone took showers then Jeff and I went out on a date. We went to Italian place in Kure beach and it was AMAZING!! Jeff had the best lasagna!

We came home early enough to put the kids down for bed and chill out!

Day 4

2011-06-15T20:06:00.002-04:00

We ate breakfast at the house and then decided to take a break for the day. We didn't go to the beach because the morning was very cool...only 64 when we woke up.

We chilled out for a little bit and then decided to go to the USS Battleship North Carolina. I have never been to a battleship and was so amazed and how interesting it was. The kids had a blast and were fascinated by everything they saw.

We were able to walk through almost the entire ship. They still use the Captains and Admirals cabins for meeting areas. It is amazing to me the way these guys lived while on the ship.
We complain all the time about how hot it is or how uncomfortable we are...I learned that we Americans as a whole are great big sissies!!

We did lunch at Buffalo Wild Wings...I know we went to the beach and this is an ordinary restaurant but we needed a change of pace. I have never ate there and it was pretty good.

We came back and took naps and everyone slept for around 3 hours. After naps we went to Michael's Seafood Restaurant. We ordered a huge steamed seafood platter and everything was great expect for the big balls of snot posing as oysters. I did not try one but Cheryl and Jeff both did to hilarious and disasterous results.

Day 3

2011-06-13T21:30:00.003-04:00

The day started with breakfast at Kates again. Yummy again and we had the same waitress and she recognized us. We played on the beach for hours and finally decided to stop around lunch time. Jeff and I played with the wake boards again and we both are starting to get it all figured out. The kids just like to sit on them in the most shallow of water and we think they need to be used the way they were intended.

After our beaching we ate at Charlie's Boardwalk Subs and they were the absolute best subs I've ever had. The fresh squeezed lemonade was the perfect ending to a sunny day. We came back to the "pink house" and showered and went to the aquarium. It was very nice. We got to touch a hermit crab, horseshoe crab and a sea anemone. We stood in the mouth of a replica megalodon and watched the jellyfish for a very long time, they are so beautiful. We had a lot of fun and it was a great way to spend a very hot afternoon.

We made a stop at the grocery store and got our breakfast and lunch supplies for the rest of the week. We figured up that we will save $180 if we eat at the house for those meals. CRAZY!!

We went for ice cream at Squigley's and it was awesome!! They have over 4000 flavor combinations. They have a machine called the squiggler which is like the blizzard machine only better and they put different bits and pieces in vanilla ice cream and "squiggle" it. I have kit kat and chocolate chip cookies in a freshly made waffle cone and it was so good.

After playing frisbee in the front yard the kids went to bed on time, for once, and then we watched the bachelorette (I read and Jeff played on his phone) and watched the first thunderstorm of our stay.

Soon it will be bedtime for the adults so we will be ready for another day on the beach.

Bacation

2011-06-12T22:14:00.003-04:00

We left for vacation on Friday after work. Drove 5 hours and stopped for the night. We stayed at a new comfort inn suites and it was really nice.

Saturday we got up early and drove for...the...next...SEVEN...HOURS!! Are we there yet? When are we going to be on bacation? Mom, how much longer? I was really wishing I had an atlas in my hand! I always looked at one when we would go on vacation growing up...ingenious on my mom's part...I didn't have to ask how much longer because I always knew exactly where we were on the map. We made it right at 4.

First things first, we unloaded the van and went to the beach. We walked around for a few minutes and then went for supper. Afterwards we went back to the beach and played for a few hours. The kids had so much fun and it was so hard to get them to come back to the beach house. Jeff and I went back out after bed and got some donuts at Britts.

They deserve their own paragraph because these donuts are the BOMB!! Don't bother looking for a long john or donut holes because they only sell one thing...glazed donuts. You can order them 1, 6, 12 or 24. So far we have bought 2 dozen and this is only our second day here!! They open at 830 and make donuts all day long. Did I mention how good they are? AMAZING!

This morning we started with breakfast at Kate's Pancake House and it was so good. I love the places that look like dives but end up being the best places to eat. It is also worth noting that grits in the south are so much better than grits in the north. Then we were off to the beach. Meemaw had to stay at home and do her homework. We had to leave for lunch and the kids were both very unhappy about that.

Lunch was in a restaurant that I found out was right beside where my mom and grandparents used to eat when they would go on vacation. Unfortunately, that restaurant is gone and has been replaced but I did see a picture of it on the wall of the place we went. My grandma even remembered another place that was there and sure enough it is still standing. The kids, Jeff and Meemaw walked out on the pier while I watched them. I'm not a fan!!

Everyone napped in the afternoon then we had pizza on the boardwalk and spent our evening on the beach. We bought the kids wakeboards and Jeff and I had a lot of fun with them!! ;)

Now we are relaxing on the couch, blogging and looking for the next place to eat!

Sick Day

2011-05-26T12:31:00.003-04:00

This is what happens when my baby girl is sick and I can't miss work. Do you like her "sick station"?

When the boss man is out on vacation I have to be here. So she got to come along with me today and boy is she a trooper. She has helped me stamp envelopes, and has written more notes than I can count. She made me a lovely book which is hanging on my desk now. We have drawn fairies and I promise I have done a bit of work.

We ate lunch together and now she is sacked out on her beanbag, with her Rachel pillow and reindeer blanket watching a Barbie movie.

I am very blessed to work where I do. How many offices let you bring your sick kid to work with you? It happens often enough that she has her own drawer here with art stuff!!

College as an Adult

2011-05-24T08:46:00.002-04:00

Most of you know I have gone back to school. I started college right after High School and was pursuing a degree in Graphic Design. Into my 2nd year I got a job working for an accountant and for some odd reason I fell in love with numbers. Now, I hated math in school and I never made it past Algebra II but there is a huge difference in that kind of math and business math. Accounting is much more analytical which I'm great with. I quit college, got married, eventually had babies and now I've decided I want to go back and get my CPA's license. Sounds long (6 years, start to finish) and crazy sometimes, I know!!

Well, I just started my 3rd class, English II. So far, so good. It doesn't seem to be nearly as difficult to fit into my schedule as I thought it would. It is more time consuming than what I was told it would be but I'm actually loving it!! Everyone knows I love to learn...I'm the google queen and that is just because I love answering my never ending questions.

It is personally satisfying and a great example for my children. It is never too late to pursue your dreams!

Buy Local

2011-05-20T11:02:00.002-04:00

We are very blessed to live in this community. Bartholomew county has an amazing network of local farmers who want you to buy locally. I'm so excited because the farmers market will be opening in a few weeks. We stop there every Saturday and buy all of our produce for the week. The selection is enormous because there are tons of vendors. Local food, honey, jams, jellies, even ketchup. Baked goods...my kids love the whoopie pies the menonite family bakes each week. There is a different musician that entertains each week, too. I love that my kids (and I) get to meet the actual people who are growing our food.

Something that really appeals to me is that these farmers aren't part of the large corporations growing food in mineral deficient fields. The food doesn't change from the ground to the table. There is no post production. I don't worry about eating more pesticide and fertilizer than the natural vitamins, nutrients and minerals that should be in the product.

There is a lady who has opened a grocery store in town that sells local foods: beef, poultry and pork, seasonal fruits & veggies. My favorite is the eggs. We stop every Friday night and buy our meat and eggs. They have homemade jams & jellies which we buy.

I can't stress enough how grateful I am to have this available so close to where we live. If you have watched Food, Inc. then you know why I find all of this so important. If you haven't watched the documentary then I urge to. It will revolutionize the way you think about food.

Goat Milk Stuff

2011-05-10T09:00:00.003-04:00

If you haven't heard of Goat Milk Stuff you are missing out. This family of 10, yep...10, makes goat milk "stuff": soaps, lotions, bath bombs, sugar scrubs, lip balm, etc. Each product is made with their raw goat milk. The soap is nothing short of amazing!! It has completely cleared my eczema. My husband no longer gets razor burn since he started using their shaving soap and this is something he has always dealt with.

My favorite is the Oatmeal, Milk and Honey...I love the scent so much I bought a CLEFFS. An ingenious idea of one of their son's and I keep it in my van. Think of it as a satchet...great idea!!
I use the organic castille for my face and an eczema patch I had for over a year cleared up completely within three days and my rosacea is barely noticable. My skin is...dare I say...luminous!
The lotion comes in a stick...like a glue stick...and it's a great way to apply it. They also make a bug off stick of lotion and a cold relief stick. The cold relief is great....think vicks vaporub. We used it a lot this winter and not having to dip my hands in the tub of vaporub was awesome!! That stuff is so hard to wash off.
The lip balm is great. It feels nice and makes your lips super soft and you don't have to use it very often. I used to be a chapstick addict!!
The soaps are also great to give as gifts...everyone I've given a bar to LOVES it!!

I first heard about Goat Milk Stuff when I was reading a post on MckMama's blog. Imagine my surprise when I found out they were a local (to me) company. I am states away from MckMama. I have had the pleasure of meeting the family at a few local events, like the chautauqua. Their children are well versed in the products and love telling you about them.

If you haven't tried their soaps, I encourage you to at least order 1 bar...it will change your skin.

I also want to add that they have no idea I posted this...I just LOVE their soap! It's all we use now!

Mine is the Night

2011-04-04T20:48:00.003-04:00

This was a great read. Liz Curtis Higgs did a great job of bringing the beloved story of Ruth to Scotland…my favorite historical fiction setting.

Marjory and Elisabeth have fallen from riches to rags. With the death of Elisabeth’s husband, a Jacobite traitor, they are left with next to nothing. They have a few small possessions most of which are sold on their journey to the town Marjory grew up in where they hope to stay with a relative.

Elisabeth takes work as a seamstress in their small town to help provide for her and her mother in law, Marjory. In doing so, she ends up in the home of Lord Jack Buchanan, sewing dresses for his staff. Along the way they, of course, find love.

This is a beautiful story with a happy ending. Not to mention, I found myself speaking with a Scottish dialect when I was done (only in my head thankfully).

I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.

Dragons of the Valley

2011-02-14T11:01:00.003-05:00

I have to say again...I LOVE DONITA K. PAUL!! I love fantasy. I have now added kimens, tumanhoefers and emerlindians to my must read list with wizards, prince and princesses and dragons!

I regret not picking up the first book in the series before I read this one but I was able to easily pick up most of the pieces. This series would be perfect for the 8-13 year range (older as well...I loved it). I know my 8 year old self would have devoured these books.

I love how the story tangles God's love and his purpose for your life with action and adventure. Princess Tipper and friends find themselves on a quest to keep three statues from falling into the hands of the enemy. Bealomondore, an artist, comes to terms with the fact that Wulder (God) has a plan for his life (which naturally is not the same as his own) and through this acceptance he finds purpose. I loved his story because I think it's something we can all relate to! Princess Tipper, finds the love and peace that Wulder has been waiting for her to accept.

I really like how this book appeals to both girls and boys. There is plenty of action and just enough (appropriate) romance to keep everyone reading and happy.

I give this two thumbs up! :)

I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review

Lady In Waiting

2011-01-18T16:11:00.005-05:00

I'm in LOVE with Susan Meissner! I've never read her books but I'm hooked now. She is definitely going on my reading list.

I love reading historical fiction and this book does a great job of blending the stories of a 21st century and a 16th century Jane. A 16th century promise ring was given to Lady Jane Grey by a man she would never marry because she was forced to marry a man she didn't love to further her families political ambitions. In turn she had to entrust her ring to her confidante and friend...her dressmaker, Lucy, whom she begged to hide the ring in hopes that she would one day be able to reclaim it. The story goes that the ring was passed down from family member to family member over the centuries until one day it gets sold at a jumble sale.

Enter 21st century Jane who, in the midst of marriage problems, finds the betrothal ring through a friend who bought a box of "junk" from said jumble sale. Jane's name is inscribed in the ring and she thinks this is a "sign" that it's meant for her. Through her hopes that she can figure out just which 16th century Jane the ring belonged to we get flashbacks of Lady Jane Grey's life (whom the author has us hoping it belongs to). Both women find themselves in circumstances they can't control and both find their own ways out of it.

Here are some quotes from the book that I really liked:

"Love isn't something you know or don't know. You decide it."

"What keeps a couple together is determination."

"It's hard work. You have to want it more than anything. And be ready to give up everything for it."

"You don't give up on someone just because that person is unhappy and you don't let them give up on you."

Each of these quotes are referring to marriage and I really liked them. They are something that in the first 11 years of my marriage I've found to be completely true.

Overall I think this was a great read and I recommend it to anyone who loves period fiction.

I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.

Two Tickets to the Christmas Ball

2010-12-30T09:01:00.004-05:00

Loved this book! It's a quick easy read that will suck you in. It's a love story with a twist: a christian book (for adults no less) that weaves wizardry and magic with forgiveness and faith.

Cora and Simon have worked together for the last few years but have never noticed each other. Until they both make a stop at the Warner, Werner and Wizbotterdad (the name of the store is what had me hooked) book store. With their purchases they find tickets to a Wizard's Christmas Ball. Along the way Cora's faith is tested but with help, she didn't know she needed, she remains resilient.

I think Donita K. Paul did a great job with this sweet, feel-good book. I will definitely be adding her other books to my list for the new year.

I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.

The Pirate Queen

2010-12-08T10:03:00.003-05:00

Don't you love this cover!

I was hooked on the second page with this line, But here the afternoon had been spilled like sweet tea poured out. Great analogy!

This book is the story of a woman who was seconds away from leaving her husband when he walks in to tell her he is dying. They move to their house on the coast (what was going to be her escape) so he can finish out his days there. This is where she learns to forgive him for his past infidelities and she finally find happiness not only with her husband but with the rest of her life.

I really like this passage about midway through the book:

It seemed like fate had propelled some mystic, psychic wind, drawing them all back against plans, against dreams and deposited them all here in answer to a mother’s prayer. But did God really care about a mother’s unspoken desire? Had God really heard her silent prayer all these years? Did he hear her prayers at all?

Who hasn’t asked questions like these and she does get her answers but you’ll have to read to find out what they are! :)

I did come away disappointed that I didn’t get to read more about her spiritual journey. In the beginning of the book she didn’t have a relationship with God and in the end she just did. I would have liked to see that unwind but it was still a good and easy read! That said I fell in love with some of the characters especially the neighbor child. Such a beautiful soul!

I give it a 4 out of 5.

Easy decorating project

2010-11-21T14:27:00.003-05:00

We repainted our bathroom and needed something to go on the walls. So I searched through my folder of "pictures I like" (yes, I have a folder of random photos I see and like) and printed some out on the color printer. I bought $3 frames at walmart and tada....instant wall art. It doesn't get much easier or cheaper than that. If you do this yourself let me know how it turns out.

Our bathroom is very small...that's why the photos are so close up there isn't much perspective to go on but I think it looks very nice.

Jumping on the Bandwagon

2010-11-11T09:08:00.001-05:00

I've done it...Blogging for Books!! I'm super excited and anxiously awaiting my first book to review. I LOVE to read and what better way to fill up my book shelves ;) than blogging for books. They send you a book (for free) you blog about it and then you do it all over again. I'm so excited about this opportunity. If you want to know more just click the banner on the right.

Ahead of the game!

2010-09-16T13:04:00.003-04:00

Christmas!!

We usually wait until the last minute to get all of our gifts. Not this year. I bought my first 2010 Christmas gift in January. I've been compiling a well thought list over the last few months and I'm finally ready to start purchasing! I LOVE buying Christmas gifts. It's so much fun to find the perfect gift for someone.

Where do you stand? Are you an all year purchaser or do you wait until the last minute?

Cincy

2010-09-11T08:12:00.005-04:00

These are backwards in order but that's ok.

This was taken with a cell phone and I think it turned out pretty cool. The sharks teeth were enormous and he was swimming straight for us!

This fish was flat on one side and had all it's fins on the top of it's head.

Kailyn riding the largest frog in the world ;)

This water fountain is in downtown Cincinnati and it's beautiful.

Rock Bottom Brewery...very good food. We all loved it.

I have a pic somewhere of me and Kailyn sitting on this when she was much younger.

He loved feeding the goats...weird kid loves when any animal licks his hands!!

Inspiration: Birthday Parties

2010-09-10T07:58:00.004-04:00

I'm a planner and one of my favorites is birthday parties for the kids. I'm also a tad obsessive! Here are a few things I'm currently in love with and plan to use for Kailyn's party.

These boots were made for walkin'

2010-09-09T10:58:00.002-04:00

Just a few I like

Dreamy

2010-09-08T08:46:00.004-04:00

A little bedroom inspiration...

I wish for this...

2010-09-03T15:10:00.007-04:00

Courtesy of Rebecca's post...this is what I wish for...Heather Bailey's craft room. This lady has awesome fabrics and style!!

Tooth

2010-08-24T08:53:00.003-04:00

Notice anything missing? That's right Kailyn lost her first tooth!! She was so excited this morning when she woke up to find a $5 bill under her pillow instead of the tooth she left. The first tooth is extra special!

BRING IT!

2010-08-18T09:18:00.002-04:00

Jeff and I got P90X from a friend. From those who don't know or haven't seen the infomercial...it's a workout program. Let me clarify...a very intense workout program. It's a lot like the conditioning in high school I did for basketball, only I'm far more out of shape and slightly older. I have found out that you don't have to be overweight to be out of shape...you can be the perfect weight and still not be able to walk up a flight of stairs without losing your breath. It's not a program for everybody (I'm sure the designer would say differently) but we are loving it!!

After being diagnosed with asthma and getting my acid reflux under control I'm finally at a place where I can start exercising again. It has been far too long. It's amazing how much better I can breathe when I'm stronger (muscle wise). My lungs don't have to work as hard when I'm not huffing and puffing. Exercising isn't just for losing weight...it's essential to maintaining a healthy lifestyle and body. I've realized that with genetics going against me (we have a history of heart problems, BP problems, bone density issues) it's crucial that I do all I can now before it's too late.

God didn't make us to just sit behind a desk or on a couch all day. He made our bodies so we could and would use them. I want to make sure I feel and look (not a God thing but a confidence thing) my best. It's amazing to watch the transformation...I'm constantly in awe of the human body. God built an amazing thing!

I will try to update in a few months on our progress. We aren't doing the program the exact way it was designed because of our time limitations with work and the kiddos so it will take us a bit longer.

Make this ASAP

2010-05-21T16:47:00.004-04:00

It's called Granny's Chocolate Cobbler. You can read all about it here. I found it on www.thepioneerwoman.com. It is divine!! Seriously it is delicious. I saw it and made it today since I'm home and the kiddos are napping. Super easy and so delicious. I even messed mine up because the pan I originally tried to use was too small and had to dump it all out in a different pan. I wasn't sure it would turn out but I cooked it anyway and it tastes awesome! So I urge you to make this as soon as you possibly can!

Granny's Chocolate Cobbler

1 cup All-purpose Flour
2 teaspoons Baking Powder
¼ teaspoons Salt
7 Tablespoons Cocoa Powder, Divided
1-¼ cup Sugar, Divided
½ cups Milk
⅓ cups Melted Butter
1-½ teaspoon Vanilla Extract
½ cups Light Brown Sugar, Packed
1-½ cup Hot Tap Water

Preparation Instructions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

First stir together the flour, baking powder, salt, 3 tablespoons of the cocoa, and 3/4 cup of the white sugar. Reserve the remaining cocoa and sugar.

Stir in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla to the flour mixture. Mix until smooth.

Pour the mixture into an ungreased 8-inch baking dish. I prefer my small oval Corning Ware glass dish.

In a separate small bowl, mix the remaining white sugar (it should be 1/2 cup), the brown sugar, and remaining 4 tablespoons of cocoa. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the batter.

Pour the hot tap water over all. DO NOT STIR!

Bake for about 40 minutes or until the center is set.

Let stand for a few minutes if you can hold yourself back. Serve with homemade ice cream using the gooey sauce to spoon over all.

Please pray

2010-05-20T09:08:00.002-04:00

One of the daycare mom's at Cam's daycare is very sick. Her name is Jill Karr (sp?). She has an auto immune disease of some kind, the dr's have it narrowed down to 4. It's affecting her joints and blood vessels. Right now it's also attacking her lungs. She has been to a specialist in cleveland and right now they are trying to decide if she needs to be hospitalized. They have her on steroids, chemo meds and arthritis meds. So far nothing has helped with her ability to breathe.

They are a new daycare family and I don't know much about them but I know they have a 2 year old daughter, Elise.

Please pray for Jill and her family.

Easter

2010-04-05T08:51:00.003-04:00

Enjoy!!

One Big Tartlet

2010-03-15T15:04:00.004-04:00

I recently made this:

It's a large Tartlet, I think the "let" implies something small, oh, well!! This is so easy to make. I made this pie crust but I cut it in half. While the crust was chilling I cut up strawberries and peaches, added some blueberries and sprinkled with Turbinado sugar (it's made from raw cane sugar) and cinnamon. I let that sit in a bowl until it started to get juicy. Once the crust was chilled, I rolled it out until it was about 1/4" thick. I placed the fruit mixture in the center and pulled the crust up over the sides. I sprinkled a little sugar over the top and baked at 350 just until it started to turn golden brown. Perfection!!

Pie Crust

Ingredients

1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup shortening, chilled
3 tablespoons ice water

Directions

Whisk the flour and salt together in a medium size bowl. With a pastry blender, cut in the cold shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Drizzle 2 to 3 tablespoons ice water over flour. Toss mixture with a fork to moisten, adding more water a few drops at a time until the dough comes together.
Gently gather dough particles together into a ball. Wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 30 minutes before rolling.
Roll out dough, and put in a pie plate. Fill with desired filling and bake.

Fun at the park

2010-03-08T08:47:00.004-05:00

We found a new park this weekend...the kids had a blast...enjoy!!

The best steak marinade

2010-02-20T10:06:00.002-05:00

I was really feeling like red meat (ie. steak) the other day so I went to Kroger and bought a huge sirloin (it fed our whole family) that was on sale (under $5). I found this awesome marinade here, Simply Recipes. You can find her blog in my side bar. I've tried a few of her recipes and they are all great.

No pictures this time. Jeff made the meal and I didn't think to ask him to photograph his cooking session. He put the steak in the marinade about 30 minutes before he grilled it...yes on the outside grill in the snow...there is no other way. For the side dish I made these stir fried veggies.

Here is the recipe. I only used the marinade part. I use Bragg's raw apple cider vinegar...it is much better for you. You don't want to know how they make the other kind.

Marinade
2 Tbsp soy sauce
2 Tbsp sherry vinegar or apple cider vinegar
2 Tbsp olive oil
4 garlic cloves, minced
A couple of turns of freshly ground black pepper
A sprinkling of salt

You really must try this...you won't be disappointed. You may never use anything else.

Compassion

2010-02-15T11:25:00.003-05:00

Saturday, we went to Walmart to pick up the few groceries we needed and afterwards we told the kids we would take them to McD's to spend their gift cards they got for valentines day (thanks Granny & Grandad).

Camden woke up from his nap pretty grumpy. When my 3 year old is grumpy he starts crying and soon as he started his nose started bleeding. When I say it was bleeding...it was really bleeding. I won't go into detail just in case anyone reading is a bit squeamish but it did take us a while to get it stopped.

Poor boy hated having his nose pinched...it made him cry...which in turn made the bleeding worse. He hated having the ice pack on his neck and most of all he hated that he couldn't get his sucker in his mouth (I would like to mention that he cold in deed get it in there but he was just plain mad). Every time I would pull the washcloth off his nose to check he would stop crying but it just wasn't stopping.

I'm not sure how long we sat in the bathroom (it seemed forever with a screaming 3 year old in my lap). Alas (don't you love that word), it did finally stop. Kailyn, brought him a fresh sucker...his was ruined!

Jeff put Camden in the tub and Kailyn brought her brand new Penguin bath toy she got at McD's that morning for her brother to play with. This is unheard of in our house...new toys aren't shared for a while. I was really proud of her.

Banana Ice Cream

2010-02-12T08:22:00.003-05:00

I need to share this recipe with you because it has changed my life. I haven't been eating ice cream, which I love, because of the high sugar and dairy content. Both of which bother me.

I ran across this recipe here and made it that night. It's revolutionary!! An ice cream that doesn't use any dairy or sugar...get out! Just one frozen banana, a little honey and a little peanut butter. I didn't have very high expectations going into this because really why would that taste like ice cream but I was shocked when finished. The texture and flavor are exactly like ice cream. Even my kids were fooled...they loved it.

This is so easy and really there are no limits to what you could create. Just change your frozen fruits maybe add a little juice and you will have a sorbet.

[Photograph: Kristen Swensson]

1 frozen banana (cut into chunks first and then freeze)
1 tsp honey
1tsp peanut butter

Put all ingredients into a food processor and process until smooth & creamy.

That's it...it tastes just like ice cream and it's oh, so delicious.

The next night i made this and it's the same principle with a frozen peach but leave out the peanut butter (unless of course those flavors appeal to you). I will be trying many different combinations in the near future.

Granola Bars

2010-02-10T16:01:00.007-05:00

These have quickly become my go to recipe. I absolutely love these granola bars. They are my afternoon, pick me up snack and are so easy to make.

The cast of characters. Oats, honey, a little cinnamon, and here's the fun part, you can add whatever you want...for these I used pecans, unsweetened shredded coconut and raisins. Your options are practically endless...any kind of dried fruit, nut, seed, chocolate, peanut butter. I have so many combos I want to try.

The recipe calls for prepared Granola which I have used and it tastes great. I use Back to Nature brand plain granola. But this time I was out so I just used all oatmeal and toasted* half of it. Mix it all together and spread on a cookie sheet to whatever thickness you like and bake.

*spread on cookie sheet and bake at 350 until golden brown to toast oatmeal

Cut into bars and eat...also forget to take a pic at home and take one at your desk!! Just store in an airtight container. The recipe says for 3 days but mine last all week and are just as fresh.

The recipe:

Granola Bars

1 cup prepared granola
1 cup rolled oats
1 cup whatever
1/2 cup flour
1 egg
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup oil (I generally use olive but I think coconut oil would be awesome)
1/4 tsp cinnamon

Mix first 4 ingredients in large bowl. Whisk last 4 ingredients in small bowl and mix with dry ingredients. Spread on cookie sheet to desired thickness. Bake at 325 until browned. Don't forget to preheat your oven.

Enjoy!!

PS. Let me know if you make this and what you think.

Mommy, are you going to pray me?

2010-02-09T14:46:00.003-05:00

Ever since Kailyn was born I've prayed over the kids right before I go to bed. I pray with both kids before they go to bed but I always sneak back in to make sure they are tucked in extra tight and say my prayers. Every once in a while Kailyn will still be awake and ask if I'm going to pray her...too cute!!

My prayers have changed over the years. The past year has been full of asking God to fill my kids with a calming spirit (can anyone say 2 year old). To give me the skills I need to be the parent God made me to be. To lead them the way he has called me. Most importantly to help me, help them know God. To build a lifelong relationship with him that won't falter during their teen years or any other time. I want them to grow up knowing my God, my heavenly Father, that I've come to know in my adulthood.

When Emma was diagnosed with JRA (juvenile rheumatoid arthritis) and more recently Emily's (you can read about Emily's journey here and the link is on my sidebar) Infantile Spasm diagnosis my prayers changed again. I've been thankful in my prayers. Not just that my kids are healthy. I've been thankful that Camden only has Reactive Airway Disease (even though it can get scary sometimes) and if it does turn into asthma I will be thankful then too. This may sound weird to some but life is full of perspective and this is mine.

I'm thankful that my kids have the ability to argue and fight with each other. They can think and reason. Some kids can't.

I'm thankful they can color on the built in shelves with red crayon and write their name with the blue one. Some kids can't.

I'm thankful they can cry, whine, argue, pitch fits.......some kids can't.

Erica's post affirmed my prayers and thoughts. You should take the time to read...it's really good. I think it's so easy for mom's to forget how fragile life really is. To take what you have with your kids for granted. Take an extra moment today and be thankful for all of it.

Say an extra prayer of thanks tonight, too!

Princess Emily

2010-02-08T09:08:00.002-05:00

http://ourbeautifulemily.blogspot.com/

I encourage you to read about Emily. She is the daughter of two very special parents. They go to church with my parents and I have come to know them over the past few years. Their little princess Emily was recently diagnosed with Infantile Spasms. They could really use your prayers. Please read their story and I encourage you to check back often, you will find the link in my sidebar.

Pasta

2010-02-03T08:27:00.002-05:00

Here is the recipe I adapted:

Ingredients

8 ounces uncooked penne pasta
2 bacon slices
1/2 cup chopped sweet onion
2 1/2 cups (1-inch) slices asparagus (about 1 pound)
1 1/2 cups fat-free, less-sodium chicken broth
4 cups bagged baby spinach leaves
1/2 cup (2 ounces) preshredded Parmesan cheese, divided
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Preparation

Cook pasta according to the package directions, omitting salt and fat. Drain; keep warm.

Cook bacon in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat until crisp. Remove bacon from pan; crumble. Add onion to drippings in pan; sauté 1 minute. Add asparagus and broth to pan; bring to a boil. Reduce heat, and simmer 5 minutes or until asparagus is crisp-tender. Add pasta, spinach, 1/4 cup cheese, and pepper to pan; toss well. Sprinkle with remaining 1/4 cup cheese and bacon.

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I used zucchini and white mushrooms in place of the asparagus and spinach. I also didn't have any penne or enough of any other shape so I just used regular spaghetti noodles. It was a hit with 3/4 of our house, Kailyn on the other hand didn't like the zucchini. I'm going to keep putting it on her plate though...she will eventually start eating it. I paired it with baked chicken* and homemade garlic, cheddar biscuits (think red lobster). Is it insane that I think nothing of spending an extra 20 minutes and making biscuits from scratch on a "work night"? Probably but that's how I roll!!

*Tip: Bake extra chicken breasts that you can shred or dice to use in dishes later in the week. It takes no extra time or effort, just season accordingly (I usually just salt & pepper them).

When Jeff got home from work and heated his food up he looked at the pasta and asked if it was good. I just waited for him to try it and he said, "Oh, my, this is really good"! Needless to say, this is going in the rotation.

Stir Fried veggies

2010-02-02T08:20:00.002-05:00

This is quickly becoming a staple at our house. Quick and easy way to get a good variety of veggies in your diet.

Put these in pan on med heat and cover:
1 slice bacon or enough olive oil or coconut oil
brussel sprouts, halved
1/2 onion chunked
1/2 zucchini chunked

thickly slice white or portabello mushrooms and add half way through cooking

when everything is almost done throw in a handful of spinach (I like to remove the stems) and let wilt. Sprinkle with salt and enjoy!!

As for the bacon, it may not be your idea of the healthiest choice of meat but everyone needs fat in their life. It is essential when eaten properly. It keeps your skin moisturized and healthy, is essential for proper brain & nerve growth, important hormones, and it helps your body absorb vitamins (don't take my word for it...read this article and you can find others that support this "theory" http://www.preventionisbest.com/site/saturatedfat.html)

I don't think God originally intended for us to count fat grams and calories. I also don't think it is a mistake that saturated fats are found naturally in nature and if you look back through history it didn't become necessary to count anything until processed foods were introduced. This is just my theory but I think if we eat foods the way God intended and exercise the way he intended we would all be healthier. This includes getting some good fats in your diet.

Fried Cabbage

2010-01-29T08:47:00.003-05:00

After suffering from painful acid reflux for the past nearly 2 years I've completely and totally revamped the way I eat and have been able to go medicine free. Let me say I can't stand taking meds. Almost everything I've ever taken I've had some kind of reaction to. So I try to avoid them at all cost. The way I see it if I can change the way I do things to stay healthy I'm all for it. It requires sacrifice but what good thing doesn't.

It seemed a very daunting task when I started. But in reality it just wasn't that hard. We still eat a lot of the same foods but just make them differently. Instead of hamburger helper beef stroganoff...I make it from scratch. The only boxed food we still buy is Macaroni & Cheese but we buy Annie's brand organic...it may sound silly...organic mac & cheese but it's so yummy.

I have found that sweets really aggravate my reflux...so I just don't eat them. Instead if I feel like something sweet I make a little fruit salad and drizzle with honey and unsweetened shredded coconut. Or I make a sauce with 100% cacao, honey & Peanut Butter and drizzle over the fruit...but that's only on occasion...chocolate isn't good for reflux.

I try to buy foods that are as close to the way God made them as possible. I buy from the outside of the grocery store. Dairy, eggs, 100% juices, meats and fresh veggies. I do venture into the aisles for some products...a few veggies, tuna, the baking aisle and cereals. I also still buy snacks for Jeff and the kids but I try to make sure (at least for the kids) that they are healthy yet fun.

Since changing my diet a lot of things have changed. I don't crave sweets, I don't have reflux problems every single day (it still happens on occasion), I feel better, I have more energy, I sleep all night...finally, I don't have continual migraines. I'm happier and a nicer person because I don't feel horrible all the time.

Now this may not be the healthiest dish in the world but I don't think a little bad here and there will hurt. It's when you have a little bad, that turns into two little bads, that turns into...okay you get the point.

Fried Cabbage

3 slices bacon, diced (you could use Turkey I guess...we had pork in the house)
1 tbs olive oil
diced carrot
1/4 sliced onion
scant 1/4 c water
1/2 head cabbage (cut the head in half and then cut each half in 1/2" - 3/4" strips)

Put first two ingredients into non stick fry pan on med heat cook for a few minutes. Put in carrot & onion and cook a few more minutes. Add the water and lay the cabbage over the top. Cover and turn on low and let steam, stirring occasionally.

It's really yummy! I think I will try the turkey bacon next time...I'm just not sure it will have the same output as pork but would be so much better for us.

Homemade Pizza

2010-01-28T08:35:00.000-05:00

I'm in love with this pizza. It's definately not traditional but oh my is it ever delicious. We had it last night and will be eating the leftovers for lunch today. Yummy!!

First the crust...homemade of course.

http://thepioneerwoman.com/tasty-kitchen/recipes/main-courses/delicious-pizza-dough/

Delicious Pizza Dough

1 cup Lukewarm Water Or Beer
1 Tablespoon Sugar
1 Tablespoon Quick Acting Yeast
1 teaspoon Salt
2 Tablespoons Vegetable Oil
2-½ cups Flour

Preparation Instructions

Mix water, sugar, and yeast in a bowl. Let yeast rise for at least 15 minutes.

Add: salt, and vegetable oil and stir. Add any other seasonings as desired. Then add flour and mix.

Knead on a floured surface until dough is not sticky anymore but still feels moist. Cover and let rise in a warm place for at least 30 minutes. Roll on a floured surface and put on a lightly greased pan.

Add toppings and cook at 425F for 10-20 minutes (depending on your oven). The crust is cooked when the bottom starts to brown.

Enjoy!

This is really easy to make...don't be afraid to make your own dough from scratch...this was the first yeast bread I ever made by hand and I made it perfect the first time....it's not hard!! A note on the flour we generally use Unbleached All-Purpose flour or sometimes Unbleached White Whole Wheat Flour.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I separate the dough into two sections a small one for me and a larger one for everyone else. They use a tomato base sauce, mushrooms, pepperoni, maybe a little ground beef and mozzarella & parmesan cheeses.

Pizza Sauce

1 can diced tomatoes
1/2 can tomato paste
enough salt & pepper
couple shakes of garlic powder
Italian seasoning (I don't have a measurement just put in enough until it looks like traditional pizza sauce)
pinch of sugar

Simmer all ingredients on low until it thickens. If you use larger proportions you can freeze the leftovers. (Take the same base, minus sugar, and add mushrooms, diced onion & ground beef and you have spaghetti sauce.)

For my pizza I use Basil Pesto as my sauce. I take about 1 1/2 Tbs and spread all over the crust. This is what it will look like.

For my toppings I take 1/3 onion, 1/3 small zucchini, 1/3 small yellow squash and saute in olive oil just until tender but not mushy(I love onions but I don't like them crunchy hence the sauteing first). Spread evenly over pizza. Top with thinly sliced fresh white mushrooms, ground beef or leftover cooked chicken. Last night I used ground beef because I was out of cooked chicken and I'm too lazy to cook one piece just for myself. Then sprinkle with Mozzarella & Parmesan cheese. Or use whatever is in your fridge...Freshly shredded Colby & Jack are really good too.

Bake per the dough directions and tada...

Pair with a salad or not either way you have yourself a healthy pizza dinner.

Stir Fry

2010-01-27T09:41:00.000-05:00

Last night I made stir fry and it was delicious. Sorry no pictures. Kailyn like it so much she asked for more veggies...my 5 year old asked for more veggies!!!

I cut up broccoli, cauliflower, onion, brussel sprouts, zucchini, yellow squash, cabbage and carrots. Put in a large pan with 1/3 cup chicken broth, covered and let steam. (I know not technically stir fry but it takes a while for the veggies to get tender if you actually stir fry them) I then added my favorite sauce House of Tsang classic stir fry sauce (I made my own (and it's really good) but I was really craving this sauce so I used it instead) just enough out of the bottle to cover everything liberally. Put the veggies over brown rice and tada...yummy stir fry!!

I think next time I'm going to add mushrooms, bean sprouts, meat and maybe take out a few of the other veggies.

It was definately a hit!!

For a friend

2009-11-22T21:21:00.000-05:00

I was gently reminded a few weeks back that I haven't updated in quite a while so I've added 4 new posts. Sorry guys...I hope this helps!

Brown County State Park

2009-11-22T21:19:00.001-05:00

Playing in the leaves

2009-11-22T21:17:00.001-05:00

Kailyns 5th Birthday

2009-11-22T21:13:00.000-05:00

Kailyn had a great birthday!! She has been looking forward to turning 5 for the last 2 years and now that she is she can't wait for 6!

I dropped my camera right before she blew out her candles (and broke it)...WTG mom!!

matching aprons made by Granny

notice Amelia on the end of the couch...she's playing with Kailyn's barbie guitar I was afraid she was going to have to take it home...she played it almost the entire time...right here she's playing us all a tune while Kailyn opens her gifts.

Pumpkins

2009-11-22T21:09:00.001-05:00

Jeff carving

this

the kids paint

check this out

2009-09-15T10:08:00.000-04:00

http://littlegreennotebook.blogspot.com/

This blog is awesome. This designer, Jenny, runs Pearl Street Interiors and her blog is full of little and inexpensive ways to decorate. It will take me forever to look through but there are so many things I'm going to duplicate...have fun!!

(in)courage

2009-08-13T08:55:00.001-04:00

Take a minute and visit this new site. There are some really great bloggers writing there and lots of good stories. They also have some cute gifts in their shop.

I scream

2009-07-23T15:41:00.001-04:00

Yesterday we went here and we had this the Big "Z"

Zaharako's is an old time soda fountain. They've been around since 1900. The building was completely remodeled this past year...it still has almost all the original woodworking and the original bar and soda machines.

The Big "Z" has 2 scoops of vanilla and 3 scoops of chocolate, whipped cream, chocolate chips and caramel sauce and an extra bowl of sauce...just in case. It was DIVINE!!!

lots of new photos

2009-07-14T08:52:00.000-04:00

Sunday went to the fair...it was $1 day...the kids had more fun playing on the tractors than riding the rides.

The 4th we had a BBQ at moms.

The kids after their bath. They were being so funny!

Kailyn's new room

2009-06-14T20:20:00.000-04:00

Jeff had a rain day last week and painted Kailyn's room.

Before:

After:

The whole of it

2009-05-21T16:02:00.000-04:00

Our whole business therefore in this life is to restore to health the eye of the heart whereby God may be seen.

~Saint Augustine

Frog

2009-05-11T19:53:00.001-04:00

The kids found a frog yesterday and had a ball chasing it around the yard...I don't think he looks like he's having quite as much fun...what do you think?

Change I can believe in

2009-05-08T15:16:00.000-04:00

Fishing and playing in the park

2009-05-03T15:02:00.000-04:00

This is at the park we also had a picnic.

Kailyn caught her first fish!

Her second fish...daddy was so proud!!

Slight tweak

2009-04-29T19:05:00.000-04:00

I tweaked it a little and like this version a lot better. I am going to blow it up for the wall. I have a few others from when she was a baby that I'm going to do too. I just have to find them. Then I need to find some of Cam to do as well.

An old photo

2009-04-27T21:30:00.000-04:00

This has always been one of my favorite pictures of Kailyn and Jeff and I've always wanted to properly edit it (and by proper I mean just the way *I* want it)

This is how the photo looked in June of 2005 (she doesn't even look the same).

This is how it looks now...I think this needs to go up on a wall!

Before & After

2009-04-25T11:07:00.001-04:00

I got a copy of photshop from one of the guys at work...I'm so excited!!! Here are some before and after edits. Enjoy (remember I'm still learning)

Before

Boost, B&W, slight vignette

Before

Boost, B&W, vignette

Before

B&W with vignette

Before

color boost

Before

Color boost and vignette

Before

Color boost with vignette

before

Boost, B&W with vignette

before

lots of things ;)

Before

boost, b&W vignette

Before

color boost

boost, B&W, vignette & blue eyes ( I think this is my favorite)

Before

color boost

Painted

2009-04-15T09:18:00.000-04:00

This is what Camden's room looked like when we moved in

This is what it looks like now

It needs wall decorations but...IT'S NOT HOT PINK!!!

Picture overload

2009-04-13T10:28:00.001-04:00

These are out of order but that's okay.

Cam and Kailyn playing with the bubbles Gram sent.

Their loot at home.

Easter outfits...doesn't Cam look so grown up.

The most beautiful eyes ever!

Kissing the baby.

On the hunt at Pappy & Nanny's

Cam & Em

The biggest kid

Michael with his loot

Levi captured his sister's eggs

Emma with an egg

Kailyn found a Cars egg and gave it to Cam because he LOVES Cars

Carly & Levi at the ranch (mom's church)

Please pray for Stellan

2009-03-28T08:06:00.000-04:00

I've been reading Mckmama's blog on and off for a while. I had forgotten about it until I read this post on Bring the Rain. Baby Stellan is a miracle. His mama was told he would die in the womb. You can read his story here. He had some problems with his heart in the womb. The drs didn't think it would ever correct but it did. He was born healthy with no signs of problems.

Now his heart is doing the same thing it did when he was in the womb. Stellan got a cold and was put on a nebulizer and the problems came back. I'm not doing an adequate job of explaining it all but you can catch up at Mckmama's site here. Stellan has been at children's hospital most of this week. The cardiologist's are having a hard time getting his heart back to a normal rhythm. They've also found the root of his problem. But they aren't getting it fixed. (There is a whole lot of medical stuff that I can't explain but his mama does a good job of)

Long story short he needs prayers! Please if you can spare the time this weekend...catch up on his story and add him to your prayers.

Side note:

I've been praying for him all week and keeping up with her twits and posts and then praying some more. Last night I came home and turned on the computer so I could catch up and pray well my modem wouldn't work. I couldn't get connected to the internet. I prayed for him then. I called my ISP and they couldn't fix my problem and said that they would have to send someone to fix it. Stellan was so heavy on my heart last night. I wanted to check again before I went to bed but it wasn't working. I prayed again and cried for this sweet baby boy. Guess what...this morning my moden works just fine. I fully believe Satan stopped my modem from working so I couldn't catch Stellan's updates.

A little something to think about

2009-03-17T08:55:00.000-04:00

We are not promised tomorrow.

I just read this on another blog and it's something I'm going to remember. Something I tend to forget. I'm not promised tomorrow. I need to live fully for God TODAY not tomorrow!

wildolivetees.com

2009-03-11T10:38:00.000-04:00

I just found this site from another blog and went to read their blog (nice runon huh;)). They are having a contest giving away a $75 gift certificate...that's worth about 3 of their awesome tees.

Go check it out...they are super cute and have an awesome message.

www.wildolivetees.com

I need your help...

2009-03-05T16:50:00.001-05:00

I'm looking for a song. The only lyrics I remember are

Through the fire I know that one day I will shine.

Anybody???

I'm it

2009-03-03T08:29:00.001-05:00

6th folder, 6th picture

Kailyn and Camden are playing in a tunnel. Kailyn is made because she doesn't want Camden in there with her and he doesn't want to get out and if you can look really close at his hair...it's standing on end.

Milestones

2009-03-03T08:13:00.000-05:00

My girl is getting so big. Kailyn has learned how to tie her shoes. If she continues to tie her shoes all by herself this week at daycare she gets an enormous Hershey bar on Monday. Well I do believe she is going to get it. She practices everyday, at home and at daycare. She is even tying the shoes of the other kids.

crazy morning

2009-02-19T10:42:00.000-05:00

It snowed a little this morning and the roads were crazy. I left at just the right time too. Nobody had touched the roads and they were down to ice. It took me 40 minutes to make a 20 minute drive. On top of that Cam's belly was not feeling well. Let's just say he was keeping the diapers full. I got Kailyn to daycare and decided that Cam didn't need to go after all and Jeff called saying he was on his way home...they had called off work. So I was on my home to take Cam to stay with Jeff and Cam started getting sick...from the other end. I got to the house and Jeff came out and grabbed Cam, seat and all and took them both straight to the bathroom. I went to the store and stocked up on pedialyte and diapers.

Poor Jeff, he's never had to deal with a sick kid by himself (well, besides a runny nose). I hope he starts feeling better today. I'm sad I'm not there to snuggle him!

I've learned a new craft

2009-02-16T08:31:00.001-05:00

Mom, Mick, Carly and Michael came up for Valentine's Day. We had Papa Murphy's pizza (a favorite at our house), salad, strawberry trifle and oreo truffles (super yummy and so easy). The kids had a great time and I'm not sure if mom noticed or not but Kailyn wasn't bossing Michael around like normal. They played but it was different than usual...maybe it was because it was a different locale than normal.

Now about my new craft. Mom taught me to crotchet...yay!!! We went on a girl trip to Hobby Lobby. I got a skein of yarn and a hook and a skein of crotchet thread and a hook to go with that. I'm making Kailyn a baby doll blanket so I can practice the different chains. I'm just over halfway through. I will probably make two and make a different pattern on the other one. The thread is to make flowers for hair clips. Kailyn picked out her own yarn (which made Nanny very proud) and Nanny is knitting her a baby doll blanket. Jeff was amazed at how I was taking to it somehow he forgot that crafting is in my blood.

Here is what I have so far. (I took the pic with my phone so the color is a little off but it's a rose pink.

Pure Joy

2009-02-11T10:48:00.001-05:00

Consider is PURE JOY, my brothers,

whenever you FACE TRIALS of many kinds,

because you know that the TESTING OF YOUR FAITH

develops PERSEVERANCE.

James 1:2-3

Perseverance (to persist in a state in spite of opposition/discouragement) = Steadfast (firm in belief = Immovable

Today we are facing a trial (nothing major I just have a worry complex). Last night it had me so worried I wanted to throw up. I picked up my bible and this is the scripture that I read. Coincidence...not hardly. I know that all things work out how they are supposed to and that it's God's plan. There is no arguing with that. God has my back through everything no matter how insignificant.

Today I'm looking for PURE JOY because I want to PERSEVERE!

Obedience

2009-02-10T10:24:00.000-05:00

This stuck out to me last night as I was reading:

he humbled himself
and became obedient to death-
even death on a cross!

Philippians 2:8

Isn't that something to think about.

I've been tagged!!

2009-02-02T09:58:00.001-05:00

1. Link to the person who tagged you -YO ANNIE!!
2. Mention the rules.
3. Tell 6 things about yourself.
4. Tag 6 other bloggers by linking to them.
5. Go to each person's blog and leave them a comment to let them know they've been tagged.

This is kind of a fun way to get to know peopleSo hmmmm.... 6 things

1. I LOVE water!! It's my favorite drink...that's weird I know. Drinking anything else makes me thirsty.

2. I'm a big kid. We play basketball in our house and I don't just mean the kids...Jeff and I will play horse by ourselves. We let the kids ride their bicycles in the house (in the playroom of course).

3. I make killer oatmeal pecan cookies but don't ever make them because I'm addicted to the dough.

4. I love to look at craft materials...scrapbook paper, fabric, yarn, beads...all of it. I could spend hours in Hobby Lobby just looking and imagining. BTW...I don't scrapbook because I'm afraid to start...I wouldn't know where to start. I wouldn't be satisfied if I didn't have everything...and that's expensive. So I stick to photo albums.

5. I love to read...I speed read. I finished Breaking Dawn in less than two days and I didn't stay up late reading either. Before kids I would read about 5 books a week but now I just don't have the time for it.

6. This one is for Rebecca...she will appreciate or hate this. I love doing account reconciliations. I used to work for an accountant and I would love it when someone would bring in an entire years worth of checks and statements and I would have to reconcile it. The messier the better...I enjoyed trying to make sense of it all.

Snow Angels

2009-01-29T09:39:00.000-05:00

Enjoy!!

Happy Birthday Cam!!

2009-01-19T10:50:00.003-05:00

Cam's birthday was on Saturday. He had a great time at his party. I think the adults had a good time too.

His new friend Amelia. My friend Maria's little girl.

Maria's son EJ.

Amelia's senior picture pose.

Rachel and Robert

Emma and Cam

Opening his gifts.

Laughing at something funny!

This was while everyone was singing...he looks thrilled ;)

His cake. The "rocks" were crushed heath bars...so yummy!!

More pictures

2009-01-07T16:23:00.000-05:00

Gram & Levi

Look at all that Sass

This is the what do you want face I tend to see a lot now

Cute one of Em

Sneaky one of Em

Carly & Rachel

Our new home

2009-01-05T09:59:00.000-05:00

I thought I should finally get some pics up of our new home. Please keep in mind that the paint schemes are temporary. We will be painting every wall in the house eventually and we DID NOT do this ourselves.

This is the playroom/den

This is part of the living room. We have since decorated it.

I think this is obvious

This is our bedroom

This is Kailyn's room

Poor Cam...this is his room

Family

2008-12-31T10:28:00.000-05:00

This awesomeness that follows is what happens when you accidentally leave your camera with your family. Just goes to show you should never make faces that you would be ashamed of other people seeing.....Shame on Gram she was supposed to be keeping my camera safe too...I'm sure they overpowered her...I guess I got the last laugh in though!!

This last picture is Chase feeding Levi. He was being such a big helper and he did a great job.

We are moved...

2008-12-29T11:17:00.001-05:00

and I'm exhausted!!!

The real reason

2008-12-24T08:30:00.000-05:00

Yesterday Jeff and Kailyn were talking about Christmas. He asked her if she knew what was coming up and she said no. He told her it was going to be Christmas in two days. She got really excited. He asked her if she knew what Christmas was about. She said, "Yes, it's Jesus's birthday!" Not one mention of presents...that was it!

10 tons o' fun

2008-12-22T11:38:00.000-05:00

Saturday we went to Mick's family for Christmas. We had a good time. The gift exchange is always a hoot. We do a "dirty Santa" type exchange. Mick's brother ended the game by picking the last gift under the tree and it was a ladies sweater!! That got a lot of laughs. The kids had a great time and Camden ate nonstop all day. I thought he was going to explode by the time we left. He's just tall enough to reach food left on the table and can make just the right face to get someone to help him out if he can't reach it. ;)

This week starts Jeff's layoff. He will be home alone with the kids for the next 3-5 weeks until his work starts back up. This will be a great time for them to bond. But I'm expecting loads of manipulation on the eldest child's part "But mommy lets us" type arguments. He is also packing our house completely up this week. Poor guy...all by himself. It's not going to take very long at all. He called around 11:00 and said he was almost out of stuff to pack. The rest will have to wait until Weds.

We are expecting them to fight us over every little thing in the apartment. So we are spackling any nail holes and making sure everything is super clean. They only have one duplex rented out of 4 and these are new so I'm sure they don't want to part with our deposit at all. But we've taken good care of everything so I think we will be fine.

I got my hair cut. I'm very excited about it. I was growing it out but I'm just not a plain long hair kind of person. I love it on other people but just not me. Here are some pics for those who haven't seen it already.

We're moving!!!

2008-12-08T14:30:00.000-05:00

We have been looking for a new place to rent for a long time. We knew what we wanted and how much we wanted to spend and were having a very hard time finding what we wanted in a low monthly payment. We just kept praying that God would lead us where he wanted us and he did on Saturday.

Friday at work one of bosses asked if we were still looking for a house and gave me the # to his FIL who had a bunch of houses and had one coming up for rent. So Saturday we went to look at it. It's in edinburgh (yay 2 minutes from the outlets!!!). It's 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, laundry room and has a Den which will be a playroom. There is a large backyard and the neighborhood is quiet. There is plenty of room to ride bikes in the summer. Plus he will give us the option to buy the place on contract.

Here are the God parts. We knew we wanted to stay around $650/mo and I really thought this house would be way out of our price range but when I called to set up the appt he said he would take $600/mo. So we went to look thinking there really must be something wrong with it but this guy is just generous. I asked him about the deposit and he said not to worry about it since I work for his SIL. Then we talked about painting the place because the people who lived there previously had painted it a little obnoxiously in some rooms and as we were leaving he said well if you guys want to paint it yourselves lets just make it $550/mo. So we said we would go home and talk about it. So we worked out our budget to make sure we would be able to do it before we had to pay the next months rent where we are now and we can but I was worried about making the Feb payment on the 1st of the month because of Jeff being layed off and the timing of my checks. So when Jeff called the guy to tell him we wanted to move in Jeff asked him if we could just pay on the first friday of every month (that's when my checks fall until Jeff goes back to work full time)and he said oh that's fine whatever works best for you.

Needless to say we are very excited!!! There is a lot of painting and cleaning to do (the house had two guys living in it...need I say more) but that's easy stuff.

Thank you God for leading us in the right direction and nudging us to make the right decisions.

Merry SITSmas!!

2008-12-02T14:30:00.000-05:00

I found this site from Bec's blog. It's pretty cool. The Secret is in the sauce or SITS . You should check it out.

Here's my card!!

Merry Christmas To All!!

Joy

2008-12-02T09:13:00.000-05:00

I watched a short video this morning on another blog and this one sentence stuck with me and I wanted to share. Think about this today there is a lot of power to it.

My JOY should have no regard for circumstances.

Big Boy Bed

2008-11-25T11:02:00.000-05:00

Camden moved to his toddler bed this weekend. He's done very well with the transition. He cried the first couple of nights but he was okay. This morning about 4:30 he started crying and I walked (okay ran) to his room and he was sitting on the floor and very confused as to how he got there. I picked him and gave him a hug and put him back in bed. Poor kid. It took Kailyn a few weeks to figure out that falling out was an option so I'm sure it will be the same for him.

It was bittersweet to move him. When we moved Kailyn we had Camden on the way and with Cam we are moving him because he's ready. It made me just a little misty!!

more photos

2008-11-03T11:12:00.000-05:00

Great Weekend and lots of pics

2008-11-03T10:12:00.000-05:00

We went to mom's this weekend. We had a halloween party on friday. I made Kailyn's birthday cake on Saturday while Pappy & Nanny took the kids to Riley's place. Then Sunday we had Kailyn's birthday party.

The Great's with Levi

Kailyn in her seat with her costume

Miss Em

Trying to bounce on the hop ball

Michael's school smile

Kailyn's cake

Playing

Father and Son

Expect more later...my photo hosting site is very slow today so this will be all for now.

Wow!! An Award...

2008-10-24T08:54:00.001-04:00

Rebecca received this award from one of her blogger buddies and passed it to me. Yay me! I am to name 6 things that make me happy and then pass it on to three people....

1. Kailyn asking to listen to our Casting Crowns CD because she likes to sing it with me.

2. My quiet time with my Heavenly Father every night.

3. Making tutus. It's an awesome creative outlet. I have so many ideas and it's so much fun to see them come to fruition.

4. Being with family...and the idea of coming home.

5. Watching Kailyn and Camden sit with each other and watch TV. They sit almost on top of each other and just watch. No words to say...not pestering...just enjoying the closeness.

6. Late night conversations with Jeff after the kids have gone to bed. We always hit on some deep stuff and it's nice.

These are what make me happy. I have to break the chain...I don't have anyone else who hasn't already been called out to send this on to. But thanks Bec!!

Weekend fun

2008-10-20T10:57:00.000-04:00

We went to a little canal town called Metamora. They have a bunch of little shops and a canal boat that's pulled by draft horses (which are enormous) and Camden loved them. We didn't ride the boat but we did get to pet the horses once they were done and put back in their stables. They also had a mill which we toured. It was a neat little town.

Yes we are a little "country"!! Jeff made a homemade slingshot with the elastic string Camden pulled out of the hem of my jacket. The kids absolutely love to play this and I'm sure we are setting ourselves up for disaster at some point but as Jeff would say "that's how we roll"...lol!!

Cutie Tuties

2008-10-18T20:07:00.000-04:00

I'm sure you've heard by now if you read any of my families blogs. But I've started making tutus. I must say they are pretty awesome!!

It all started with a search for the perfect costume for Mom's fall festival party. Kailyn wanted to be a fairy (or I wanted her to be one...but that's neither here no there). I found some really cute tulle tutus and decided I could make some myself...one for her and one for me. All girls (every age included here) likes the idea of dressing up in something beautiful. I made a trip to Hobby Lobby and bought all the supplies I would need, tulle, ribbon, flowers, sequins, glitter pens. I made the first one (for Kailyn) and it was fun and a great creative outlet. I was hooked!! The ideas started pouring out.

I posted about this on a messageboard I'm a part of and lots of ladies expressed interest and a few said they wanted me to make them one if I decided to make more. I also asked a few ladies I've been friends with for a while and they expressed interest. I told my cousin on facebook and one of our mutual friends saw and decided she wanted one for her neice. So the next day I bought more materials and I've officially sold two.

With my family we can't stop the creativity...it runs too deep!! So I've also made up flyers to send with the tutus as I mail them out. This is what was born:

Here are some samples of the tutus:

The Kailyn

The Em

The Ellie

The Amelia

Captivating

2008-10-10T15:47:00.001-04:00

I just started this book this week, Captivating, by John & Stasi Elderedge. I have made it to chapter seven. Let me just say wow!! It's touching on so many past hurts in my life and my relationship with God and seeing him as my Father. Something I've never really had and don't know how to have. But it's also about revealing the mystery of a woman's soul and why we long for the things that we do. It's a great book so far and I hope it continues to be.

Lots of new photos

2008-10-06T10:16:00.001-04:00

This weekend we went to get pumpkins and the kids painted them...that was scary...lol!!

Last weekend we went to visit Meemaw (Jeff's mom). The kids made friends with some neighbor children.

Some chalk pics...more on them than anywhere else.

A couple from Michael's birthday party.

TAGGED!!!

2008-09-29T10:24:00.000-04:00

1. I eat 5 times a day. Breakfast, snack, lunch, snack and supper. My new favorite #2 snack is apples and peanut butter.

2. I love the way moth balls smell...weird...I know!

3. I haven't had a full night of sleep in 4 years. I keep wondering when it will happen.

4. I like to watch the Disney channel and all the new disney movies.

5. I love the Veggie Tales!

6. The feel of armor all makes me gross out. I can't stand to use it in my car.

7. The smell of cinnamon give me a migrane.

I got a bonus!!!

2008-09-17T16:00:00.001-04:00

I spent a few days last week working on the information for the tech's bonuses. They get bonuses based on their billable hours and since I don't have billable hours and was told when I started that I wouldn't receive a bonuse I wasn't expecting one.

But my bosses had other plans...I got one too!! It couldn't have come at a better time too. It's nice the my work here is appreciated.

Cincy Zoo

2008-09-06T19:23:00.000-04:00

Jeff will be working out of town most of the week the next two weeks. Today we got up and decided to do something fun before he left so we went to the Cincinnati Zoo. We surprised Kailyn...she had a great time and thought it was a good surprise. I through in some cute princess pictures too.

Politics

2008-09-05T15:44:00.000-04:00

I've never been one to appreciate or "get into" an election. But I have to say this one has me interested. I've enjoyed reading different articles about the opponents.

I don't see the hype about Obama. I'm having a hard time understanding his "changes". He won't give a direct answer to a question. Sure he's entertaining but when it comes down to it he has no "meat" he's not solid. Besides the fact that his talk seems to be walking...increasingly faster ...towards a socialist government. Where is his experience???

McCain is old (no offense to anyone)...so what! He is touting change as well but at least he spells out what he wants to change. A "me" centered Washington.

Palin...at first I was skeptical but after her speech...I love her!! Can you tell I think she's great. She has the most government leadership experience out of any of the candidates. If they make it to the presidency I can see her really shaking things up in about 8 years with a presidential run.

This is hard to say

2008-08-26T09:52:00.000-04:00

I have Panic Disorder.

This has been going on since last May. I thought I could handle it and that it would get better but it's hasn't. My Dr. and I talked and I finally let him prescribe me something. I haven't filled it yet. It's Paxil. I have a problem with medicine. Every time I take something I have some kind of weird reaction. So needless to say I have anxiety over that. I don't even read any of the paperwork before I take something because I don't want to make something happen to myself by over analyzing it.

Last year when Jeff started his new job it got really bad. I was having crazy migraines every single day mixed with anxiety and throw some panic attacks on top of that but I made it through all of it. Then we moved and it started it again. I was having a lot of anxiety. A new place that I was unfamiliar with. I never wanted to leave the house with the kids by myself because I was afraid I was going to have a panic attack. How irrational...anxiety over a panic attack.

Every time I feel some kind of pain or get sick I worry that I'm going to die or I have something really bad. When in reality I'm just very out of shape and when I do any physical I feel pain and guess what people just get sick... no biggie!!

I have to pump myself up to go places...like the grocery or target or kohls. I'm holding myself back and I'm a prisoner of my own mind. My mind always wanders to bad situations like wrecking the car or Jeff getting hurt at work or something happening to one of the kids.

I'm so tired and wiped out everyday. I don't sleep well...I'm grumpy and irritable and the littlest thing starts my anxiety up.

I also know that I have a huge battle going. Good vs. Evil!! Satan will not win...you hear that...you will not win!! I've come to realize that I don't need to control my mind that I just need to leave it open to the Holy Spirit and let him guard it for me. That's what he's here for.

This is so hard for me to admit...I don't think Jeff or my mom even know all that I've been going through. It's embarrassing to admit. But I felt really led today to do this and part of being led is submitting and doing what you're told to do.

Fishing

2008-08-24T12:17:00.000-04:00

We took the kids fishing for the first time this morning. Everybody had a great time.

Just a few pics

2008-08-23T21:10:00.001-04:00

A funny

2008-08-19T10:11:00.000-04:00

This morning Kailyn came bounding into the bathroom..."Look Mommy my booboo is gone!!!" I checked out her knee where the aforementioned booboo was previously located and it in fact was gone. She looked up at me with her big blue eyes and said "It must be in Heaven now."

A little update

2008-08-14T12:33:00.000-04:00

Camden got his tubes put in his ears last Thursday. He did great and I swear it's already made a difference. His speech has picked up and he's using letters he wasn't before.

He had his 18 months checkup last night (our pediatrician is open until 8 two nights a week). Developmentally he is doing great. He runs, says way more than 8 words, knows more than 2 body parts, follows directions and so on and so forth. He wowed her with his dancing skills and his talking skills. She even said "Boy, he does talk a lot!" He measured in at 31 1/2 inches tall (25th %) 24.4 lbs (25th %) and his head was 20 1/2 (off the charts %). He's growing steadily he's just a shorty!! But he has 17 more years to grow. I would just hate for his sister to be taller than him.

Kailyn was seen as well. She has a nasty sinus infection complete with sores in her nose. She felt pitiful yesterday but they put her on an anitbiotic. She had the first round last night and this morning when she woke up she was feeling a little better. She's a trooper though.

Kailyn is "showing her true colors" at daycare now. She feels comfortable with her surroundings and is testing out Mrs. Janet. She also seems to like the "bad boys" at daycare. I'm sure they are more fun. But she seems to be finding a lot more trouble this way as well. So now we have to work on how our choices and our actions can effect us. What God and Mommy & Daddy want out of her. Big stuff for such a little girl. She's also figuring out manipulation and pitting Mommy and Daddy against each other. I was hoping we'd have a few more years without this but she is her Mother's daughter!!