Wednesday, February 28, 2007
Fun with Friends
We are having a great time with our Alabama visitors! The five kids could not be having a better time. They have enjoyed playing together, and we have had wonderful weather to enjoy. Here are some pictures of them enjoying the nice day.
Sarah gave my best girl a ride on the Power Wheels four-wheeler.
Nathan and my favorite boy have had nonstop sports fun!
Abby Grace is making a speedy get-away to keep me from taking her picture.
I am so thankful for this special time with friends. We don't see each other often, so this has been a blessing. We will be sad to see them go tomorrow!
Labels: Family and Friends, Fun
Less-Stressful Dinner Preparation
Late afternoon is often stressful for me. When dinner time is coming quickly, I often get more frustrated with my two-year-old and five-year-old helpers. I have found that preparing as much as possible earlier in the day works well for me. When we are in the kitchen at lunch time, I will assemble as much of my evening meal as possible so I only have to stick it in the oven before dinner. I tend to have more patience and enjoy my helpers more at this time. Obviously, this works better with some recipes than others; but it has helped me a great deal, and dinner preparations are a little more peaceful for everyone!
For more Works-for-Me Wednesday ideas, visit Shannon at Rocks in My Dryer!
Labels: Works-for-Me Wednesday
Tuesday, February 27, 2007
Small Talk at My House
I just thought I would share two cute conversations I had with my favorite boy recently. Both conversations took place as we were preparing for our company.
Conversation #1
Mom: You may not play on the top bunk. I just changed the sheets, and I don't want them messed up before our company arrives.
Favorite Boy: What if I climb up there when you are not looking?
Mom (trying to teach a lesson): Well, I cannot always see whether you are doing what is right, but who can?
Favorite Boy: God?
Mom: Yes. God can always see what we are doing and he even knows what we are thinking.
Favorite Boy: Is he going to tell on me?
Conversation #2
Mom: You are going to have to sleep with Mom when we have company so Sarah and Nathan can sleep in your beds.
Favorite Boy (who really wanted to sleep in the same room with Nate): That's okay. That is really Dad's spot. I wouldn't want him to think I was trying to take his spot.
Mom: Dad won't mind. We sleep in the same bed every night.
Favorite Boy: Yeah, I guess you must be tired of him, right?
Sometimes I can't help laughing out loud!
Conversation #1
Mom: You may not play on the top bunk. I just changed the sheets, and I don't want them messed up before our company arrives.
Favorite Boy: What if I climb up there when you are not looking?
Mom (trying to teach a lesson): Well, I cannot always see whether you are doing what is right, but who can?
Favorite Boy: God?
Mom: Yes. God can always see what we are doing and he even knows what we are thinking.
Favorite Boy: Is he going to tell on me?
Conversation #2
Mom: You are going to have to sleep with Mom when we have company so Sarah and Nathan can sleep in your beds.
Favorite Boy (who really wanted to sleep in the same room with Nate): That's okay. That is really Dad's spot. I wouldn't want him to think I was trying to take his spot.
Mom: Dad won't mind. We sleep in the same bed every night.
Favorite Boy: Yeah, I guess you must be tired of him, right?
Sometimes I can't help laughing out loud!
Labels: Small Talk
"I Never" Meme
I recently read this meme at A Spacious Place. I changed it a little, but it is basically the same.
1. Which dramatic role have I never had?
a. an orpan, Oliver Twist, community theater, 3rd grade
b. an orphan, Annie, community theater, 6th grade,
c. a munchkin, The Wiz, high school musical, 9th grade
d. the Baker's Wife, Into the Woods, high school musical, 11th grade
I was never in Annie. I wanted to be; but we had a vacation planned for one of the weeks of the performance, so I was not able to try out for a part. I was very disappointed at the time, but I have moved past my adolescent angst.
2. On which athletic team did I never compete?
a. softball
b. basketball
c. tennis
d. swimming
I never played tennis. I did take a tennis class in college, but I only got an A because I was a responsible student who made an effort! I played softball in elementary school, basketball in ninth grade, and swam for the high school team my senior year (it was the first year our school had a team).
3. What kind of lessons have I never taken?
a. piano
b. trombone
c. tap dance
d. etiquette
I never had etiquette lessons. I took piano lessons for several years, tap lessons as a small child, and trombone lessons for a few weeks in sixth grade band. I chose trombone because of a boy, I think, and dropped out after a few weeks.
4. Which type of vehicle have I never driven?
a. stick shift car
b. dirt bike
c. pickup truck
d. ATV
I have never driven a dirt bike. I drove an ATV on a date that was definitely blog-worthy, but I will save that for another time.
5. What book have I never read?
a. Gone with the Wind
b. Catcher in the Rye
c. Charlotte's Web
d. Pride and Prejudice
I have never read Pride and Prejudice. I may try to tackle it for the spring reading challenge at Callapidder Days. I read Gone with the Wind twice; I read the Catcher in the Rye in high school; and I reread Charlotte's Web last year with my favorite boy. It was the first chapter book I read aloud to him.
Feel free to play along! Let me know if you do so I can read your answers as well. Have a great Tuesday!
1. Which dramatic role have I never had?
a. an orpan, Oliver Twist, community theater, 3rd grade
b. an orphan, Annie, community theater, 6th grade,
c. a munchkin, The Wiz, high school musical, 9th grade
d. the Baker's Wife, Into the Woods, high school musical, 11th grade
I was never in Annie. I wanted to be; but we had a vacation planned for one of the weeks of the performance, so I was not able to try out for a part. I was very disappointed at the time, but I have moved past my adolescent angst.
2. On which athletic team did I never compete?
a. softball
b. basketball
c. tennis
d. swimming
I never played tennis. I did take a tennis class in college, but I only got an A because I was a responsible student who made an effort! I played softball in elementary school, basketball in ninth grade, and swam for the high school team my senior year (it was the first year our school had a team).
3. What kind of lessons have I never taken?
a. piano
b. trombone
c. tap dance
d. etiquette
I never had etiquette lessons. I took piano lessons for several years, tap lessons as a small child, and trombone lessons for a few weeks in sixth grade band. I chose trombone because of a boy, I think, and dropped out after a few weeks.
4. Which type of vehicle have I never driven?
a. stick shift car
b. dirt bike
c. pickup truck
d. ATV
I have never driven a dirt bike. I drove an ATV on a date that was definitely blog-worthy, but I will save that for another time.
5. What book have I never read?
a. Gone with the Wind
b. Catcher in the Rye
c. Charlotte's Web
d. Pride and Prejudice
I have never read Pride and Prejudice. I may try to tackle it for the spring reading challenge at Callapidder Days. I read Gone with the Wind twice; I read the Catcher in the Rye in high school; and I reread Charlotte's Web last year with my favorite boy. It was the first chapter book I read aloud to him.
Feel free to play along! Let me know if you do so I can read your answers as well. Have a great Tuesday!
Monday, February 26, 2007
Read to Me 2007 - Week One Update
After one week, our read-aloud time is going wonderfully. I am so glad we are participating in this challenge! I will share an update on each of my two listeners.
Just as I expected, my favorite boy was not excited about the idea of me reading to him. We started with The Wonderful Wizard of Oz (he has not seen the movie, so this is a new story to him). On the first day, I let him shoot baskets while I read. After only a few minutes, he eased over to take a peek at the illustrations and then feigned indifference. On the second day, he fussed again, but he sat next to me while I read. We are now a week into the book, and he begs me to continue when it is time to stop. We are having a great time! He is enjoying the story, and it is fun for me to see him drawn into a tale I have always loved.
Hopefully, my favorite boy and I will finish the Wizard of Oz this week and move on to another novel on our list. From our picture book list, we read Casey at the Bat and The Giving Tree. We are enjoying Read-Aloud Rhymes for the Very Young as our poetry selection, and my best girl joins us for this as well. We have been reading poems at lunchtime.
In addition to the poetry, I have read several new picture books to my best girl. From our Read-to-Me list, we enjoyed Ten, Nine, Eight; It Looked Like Spilt Milk; and Polar Bear, Polar Bear, What Do You Hear. It Looked Like Spilt Milk was a huge hit! My best girl and I have reread many books from our collection as well, including several she especially enjoys. Some of her current favorites are The Napping House; Llama Llama Red Pajama; Mr. Brown Can Moo, Can You; Mrs. Wishy-Washy; and Five Little Ladybugs.
I have updated our list in my initial post to show the books we have finished. If you would like to see this list, click here.
Just as I expected, my favorite boy was not excited about the idea of me reading to him. We started with The Wonderful Wizard of Oz (he has not seen the movie, so this is a new story to him). On the first day, I let him shoot baskets while I read. After only a few minutes, he eased over to take a peek at the illustrations and then feigned indifference. On the second day, he fussed again, but he sat next to me while I read. We are now a week into the book, and he begs me to continue when it is time to stop. We are having a great time! He is enjoying the story, and it is fun for me to see him drawn into a tale I have always loved.
Hopefully, my favorite boy and I will finish the Wizard of Oz this week and move on to another novel on our list. From our picture book list, we read Casey at the Bat and The Giving Tree. We are enjoying Read-Aloud Rhymes for the Very Young as our poetry selection, and my best girl joins us for this as well. We have been reading poems at lunchtime.
In addition to the poetry, I have read several new picture books to my best girl. From our Read-to-Me list, we enjoyed Ten, Nine, Eight; It Looked Like Spilt Milk; and Polar Bear, Polar Bear, What Do You Hear. It Looked Like Spilt Milk was a huge hit! My best girl and I have reread many books from our collection as well, including several she especially enjoys. Some of her current favorites are The Napping House; Llama Llama Red Pajama; Mr. Brown Can Moo, Can You; Mrs. Wishy-Washy; and Five Little Ladybugs.
I have updated our list in my initial post to show the books we have finished. If you would like to see this list, click here.
Thanks again, Jennifer! We are having a great time!
Labels: Children's Books
Sunday, February 25, 2007
Company Is Coming!
I am busy cleaning! Yesterday, my best friend Amberly mentioned in an email that her husband was preparing to leave for a week. My husband is leaving as well, so I emailed her back and told her to come for a visit. I have offered this before, but she always turns me down. After all, she lives four hours away, homeschools two children, and has a preschooler as well. SURPRISE! She called me almost immediately and said, "We're coming!"
Hooray! They will arrive tomorrow and stay until Thursday. I am sure we will have a wonderful time visiting, and the kids (all five of them) will have a ball playing together. Because Amberly used to live here, other friends will want to see her as well, so I am sure we will have a few get-togethers. It will be an exciting week!
I don't know why I am still sitting at this computer...off to clean!
Hooray! They will arrive tomorrow and stay until Thursday. I am sure we will have a wonderful time visiting, and the kids (all five of them) will have a ball playing together. Because Amberly used to live here, other friends will want to see her as well, so I am sure we will have a few get-togethers. It will be an exciting week!
I don't know why I am still sitting at this computer...off to clean!
Labels: Family and Friends
Saturday, February 24, 2007
My Best Girl's Prayer
My best girl likes to pray. A lot. Lately, her prayer has been something like this.
Dear God,
Thank you for this day.
Please help Mommy feel better.
Please help Daddy feel better.
Thank you for Mommy's brother.
Thank you for Daddy's brother.
Thank you for the Wiggles.
In Jesus' name,
Amen
Just for the record, Mom and Dad are feeling fine, and Dad doesn't have a brother; but she will not be swayed! I believe God must smile at these innocent prayers as much as we do!
Dear God,
Thank you for this day.
Please help Mommy feel better.
Please help Daddy feel better.
Thank you for Mommy's brother.
Thank you for Daddy's brother.
Thank you for the Wiggles.
In Jesus' name,
Amen
Just for the record, Mom and Dad are feeling fine, and Dad doesn't have a brother; but she will not be swayed! I believe God must smile at these innocent prayers as much as we do!
Labels: My Best Girl
Game Recommendation - Rat-a-Tat Cat
Currently, our favorite card game is Rat-a-Tat Cat. Rat-a-Tat Cat is great for developing memory, basic addition skills, strategy, and an understanding of probability (all of that, and it is fun too!). This game has received awards from Dr. Toy, Mensa, Oppenheim Toy Portfolio, National Parenting Publication Association, Games Magazine, and more. It is recommended for ages 6-12, and it includes variations to make it easier for the younger end of this age range.
The object of this game is to have the lowest score. To begin, each player has four cards face down on the table. The players begin the round knowing the value of only two of their cards. Each player takes turns drawing a card. With these cards, the players attempt to lower the value of their cards by swapping, peeking, and discarding. The challenge is that you have to remember the value of your cards because they are face down. When one player calls "Rat-a-Tat Cat," the round comes to a close, and the players figure out their total. The lowest score wins.
We play this game at least 3 or 4 times a week. Perhaps you and your children would enjoy it as well!
Labels: Games
Friday, February 23, 2007
Small Talk at My House
Lately, my two-year-old best girl has a new saying. She will see something in a picture, a doll for example, and say, "I had one of those when I was older!" Sometimes she will say, "I used to do that when I was older." I know it is much funnier in person, but I thought I would share this for the grandparents' sake.
My favorite boy drew a picture of our family today. You can imagine how happy I was when he told me, "Look Mom! You are the funniest looking one!"
My favorite boy drew a picture of our family today. You can imagine how happy I was when he told me, "Look Mom! You are the funniest looking one!"
Labels: Small Talk
Favorite Ingredients Friday
One of Mr. Baseball's favorite dishes is Swiss Dressing Chicken Casserole. I found this recipe in a Southern Living Cookbook several years ago(I think). It is easy and delicious.
Swiss Dressing Chicken Casserole
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 pkg. shredded Swiss cheese
1 can cream of celery soup
1/2 c. milk
1 box seasoned cornbread stuffing mix
1/2 c. melted butter
Grease 9x13 Pyrex dish.
Place chicken breasts in dish.
Cover with cheese.
Mix soup and milk; pour over chicken.
Combine melted butter and stuffing mix and pour on top.
Cover the dish with foil and bake at 350 degrees for 1 1/2 hours.
Enjoy!
For more great recipes, visit Overwhelmed with Joy.
My past recipes include:
Five Ingredient Chili
Mississippi Mud Cake
Pineapple Cheese Ball
Labels: Recipes
Thursday, February 22, 2007
Am I Keeping a Secret?
I am currently reading the gospel of Luke. Recently, I read the story of Jesus healing the leper (Luke 5:12-15; see also Matt. 8:2-4 and Mark 1:40-45 ). The diseased man came to Jesus, fell to the ground, and begged Jesus to cleanse him. He said, "Lord, if you are willing, you can make me clean." Jesus touched the man and said, "I am willing. Be clean." Immediately, the leper was healed.
Then Jesus said, "Don't tell anyone, but go, show yourself to the priest and offer the sacrifices that Moses commanded for your cleansing, as a testimony to them." Don't tell anyone? This man had one of the most dreaded diseases of the first century. Because of it, he was forced to live separately and identify himself by yelling, "Unclean!" His only future was that of pain, disfigurement, and death. Jesus healed him instantly, and then asked the man to keep it quiet.
Mark (1:45) tells us that the man just couldn't keep it to himself. Instead he went out and spoke "freely, spreading the news." This resulted in Jesus' inability to enter a town freely, but who can blame the man? Jesus healed his infirmities, made him whole, and opened up a life for him he would not have known. I think I would have had a difficult time keeping it to myself as well.
Wouldn't I?
Jesus has healed the infirmities of my soul. Jesus' death says to me, "I am willing. Be clean." Through Him, I am whole, with a life I would not have known (in this world and eternally). But Jesus has not asked me to keep a secret. On the contrary, He desires this message to "spread rapidly and be honored" (2 Thess. 3:1). Am I freely spreading the good news?
I pray that I will be more like the leper who was healed - so thankful and excited for my cleansing that I can't help but spread the word; for this cleansing has eternal benefits. I pray that I will be like the prophet Isaiah. For when God asked who would carry His message, Isaiah replied, "Here am I. Send me!"
Then Jesus said, "Don't tell anyone, but go, show yourself to the priest and offer the sacrifices that Moses commanded for your cleansing, as a testimony to them." Don't tell anyone? This man had one of the most dreaded diseases of the first century. Because of it, he was forced to live separately and identify himself by yelling, "Unclean!" His only future was that of pain, disfigurement, and death. Jesus healed him instantly, and then asked the man to keep it quiet.
Mark (1:45) tells us that the man just couldn't keep it to himself. Instead he went out and spoke "freely, spreading the news." This resulted in Jesus' inability to enter a town freely, but who can blame the man? Jesus healed his infirmities, made him whole, and opened up a life for him he would not have known. I think I would have had a difficult time keeping it to myself as well.
Wouldn't I?
Jesus has healed the infirmities of my soul. Jesus' death says to me, "I am willing. Be clean." Through Him, I am whole, with a life I would not have known (in this world and eternally). But Jesus has not asked me to keep a secret. On the contrary, He desires this message to "spread rapidly and be honored" (2 Thess. 3:1). Am I freely spreading the good news?
I pray that I will be more like the leper who was healed - so thankful and excited for my cleansing that I can't help but spread the word; for this cleansing has eternal benefits. I pray that I will be like the prophet Isaiah. For when God asked who would carry His message, Isaiah replied, "Here am I. Send me!"
Labels: Life Lessons
Wednesday, February 21, 2007
Reading Poetry
Thanks to the Read to Me 2007 Challenge at Snapshot, my kids and I have started reading poetry this week. Because my kids are on different reading and listening levels, I didn't know how well reading to them together would work, but poetry is proving to be enjoyable for both at the same time.
We have incorporated poetry into our day by reading a few poems before lunch. I keep the book on the hutch beside the table so I won't forget. Each time we have done this, I have had to call it quits so I could eat. They would have let me read during the entire meal!
The book we are currently using is Read Aloud Rhymes for the Very Young. It is perfect for preschoolers. We are enjoying this so much; we plan to make it our lunch treat each day. Poems only take a few minutes, and they are fun!
This is working-for-me. For more Works-for-Me Wednesday tips, visit Shannon at Rocks in My Dryer.
We have incorporated poetry into our day by reading a few poems before lunch. I keep the book on the hutch beside the table so I won't forget. Each time we have done this, I have had to call it quits so I could eat. They would have let me read during the entire meal!
The book we are currently using is Read Aloud Rhymes for the Very Young. It is perfect for preschoolers. We are enjoying this so much; we plan to make it our lunch treat each day. Poems only take a few minutes, and they are fun!
This is working-for-me. For more Works-for-Me Wednesday tips, visit Shannon at Rocks in My Dryer.
Labels: Children's Books, Works-for-Me Wednesday
Tuesday, February 20, 2007
Homemaking Meme
Stephanie tagged me for this meme. After reading it, you will know that I am certainly not Martha Stewart!
The A-B-C's of Homemaking
Aprons- Y/N? - No. I don't have one (not that I don't need one).
Baking- I like to bake, but I rely too much on prepacked products to help me out.
Clothesline- Y/N? No. I prefer to rob the environment by using electricity.
Donuts- Ever made them? - No, but I sure do like to eat them, especially Krispy Kreme!
Everyday- One homemaking thing you do everyday? - There are several, but I feel like I sweep the kitchen floor about 100 times a day (and there are still crumbs).
Freezer- Do you have a separate deep freezer? - Yes. We buy meat in bulk when it is on sale and freeze it.
Garbage Disposal- Y/N? - Yes.
Handbook- Y/N? - Yes, I do have a household notebook with my cleaning schedule. I am working on adding recipes and addresses to this notebook as well.
Ironing- Yes, but as little as possible. My mom, however, is the ironing queen!
Junk Drawer- Where is it? - Yes, I have one in the kitchen for scissors, tape, pens, markers, etc...
Kitchen- Design and decorating? - White cabinets, Corian countertops (love these), burgandy wallpaper with a Mediterranean -type fruit pattern, and wood floors.
Love- What is your favorite part of homemaking? - Cooking. I enjoy it although I am no expert, and I usually prepare simple meals.
Mop- Y/N? - Yes, usually once a week. Most of our living area is hardwood, so I mop all of it. I sweep the kitchen daily (or 100 times a day as mentioned above).
Nylons- Wash by hand or in the washer? - Washer, but in a mesh bag.
Oven- Do you use the window or open it to check? - Open it to check.
Pizza- What do you put on yours? - My husband prefers meat toppings. My favorite would be mushrooms, sausage, and green peppers.
Quiet- What do you do during the day when you get a quiet moment? - Blog, read, pray.
Recipe card box- Y/N? - Yes, for now. I am working on moving my recipes to my notebook.
Style of house - Ranch, with a bonus room over the garage.
Tablecloths and napkins- Y/N? - No tablecloths unless company is coming. Paper napkins.
Under the kitchen sink - Cleaning products.
Vacuum- How many times a week? - Once a week.
Wash- How many loads do you do a week? Usually six or seven loads a week.
X's- Do you keep a list of things to do and cross them off? - Oh, yes. I am absolutely a list maker. I have a daily list, weekly list, monthly list, etc...
Yard- Who does what? - I do flowers during spring and summer, my husband does the rest.
ZZZ's- What is your last homemaking task for the day? - Cleaning the kitchen
Well, I am sure that is more than you wanted to know about my home! I now tag Amberly, the queen of cleaning, Holly, and anyone else who would like to participate! Let me know if you do this on your blog. I would love to come check out your responses!
The A-B-C's of Homemaking
Aprons- Y/N? - No. I don't have one (not that I don't need one).
Baking- I like to bake, but I rely too much on prepacked products to help me out.
Clothesline- Y/N? No. I prefer to rob the environment by using electricity.
Donuts- Ever made them? - No, but I sure do like to eat them, especially Krispy Kreme!
Everyday- One homemaking thing you do everyday? - There are several, but I feel like I sweep the kitchen floor about 100 times a day (and there are still crumbs).
Freezer- Do you have a separate deep freezer? - Yes. We buy meat in bulk when it is on sale and freeze it.
Garbage Disposal- Y/N? - Yes.
Handbook- Y/N? - Yes, I do have a household notebook with my cleaning schedule. I am working on adding recipes and addresses to this notebook as well.
Ironing- Yes, but as little as possible. My mom, however, is the ironing queen!
Junk Drawer- Where is it? - Yes, I have one in the kitchen for scissors, tape, pens, markers, etc...
Kitchen- Design and decorating? - White cabinets, Corian countertops (love these), burgandy wallpaper with a Mediterranean -type fruit pattern, and wood floors.
Love- What is your favorite part of homemaking? - Cooking. I enjoy it although I am no expert, and I usually prepare simple meals.
Mop- Y/N? - Yes, usually once a week. Most of our living area is hardwood, so I mop all of it. I sweep the kitchen daily (or 100 times a day as mentioned above).
Nylons- Wash by hand or in the washer? - Washer, but in a mesh bag.
Oven- Do you use the window or open it to check? - Open it to check.
Pizza- What do you put on yours? - My husband prefers meat toppings. My favorite would be mushrooms, sausage, and green peppers.
Quiet- What do you do during the day when you get a quiet moment? - Blog, read, pray.
Recipe card box- Y/N? - Yes, for now. I am working on moving my recipes to my notebook.
Style of house - Ranch, with a bonus room over the garage.
Tablecloths and napkins- Y/N? - No tablecloths unless company is coming. Paper napkins.
Under the kitchen sink - Cleaning products.
Vacuum- How many times a week? - Once a week.
Wash- How many loads do you do a week? Usually six or seven loads a week.
X's- Do you keep a list of things to do and cross them off? - Oh, yes. I am absolutely a list maker. I have a daily list, weekly list, monthly list, etc...
Yard- Who does what? - I do flowers during spring and summer, my husband does the rest.
ZZZ's- What is your last homemaking task for the day? - Cleaning the kitchen
Well, I am sure that is more than you wanted to know about my home! I now tag Amberly, the queen of cleaning, Holly, and anyone else who would like to participate! Let me know if you do this on your blog. I would love to come check out your responses!
Catch Them Being Good
Last week, Stephanie left me a comment about Pass the Torch Tuesday. Each Tuesday, Kelly celebrates ways we catch children doing something right. I think this is such a great idea, and I included my post about my favorite boy from Valentine's Day. Stop by Pass the Torch Tuesday to find other ways kids are being celebrated.
As an addition to my post from last week, my favorite boy is already thinking about my upcoming birthday as well. He said, "Mom your birthday is coming up. I am going to have to get Dad working on it!" I guess he will keep Dad on his toes!
Have a great Tuesday!
As an addition to my post from last week, my favorite boy is already thinking about my upcoming birthday as well. He said, "Mom your birthday is coming up. I am going to have to get Dad working on it!" I guess he will keep Dad on his toes!
Have a great Tuesday!
Labels: My Favorite Boy
Monday, February 19, 2007
Hodgepodge
I have a few short items to blog about, so I thought I would put them together. First, I would like to show my appreciation to Our Seven Qtpies for choosing my entry in her birth story contest. This is my first time to win a blogging contest, so thanks! If you would like to read my birth saga, click here.
Secondly, I am not a doom and gloom type of person who thinks the next generation is going completely downhill; but it is certainly disappointing when a cashier cannot figure out my change (the total was $1.08 and I gave him a five). I think we all rely a little too much on machines! The former teacher in me wanted to give a little math lesson, but I refrained. I just smiled and told him I needed $3.92.
In other news, WE GOT TO PLAY OUTSIDE TODAY! It was in the 50s and sunny. Wonderful!
Finally, why, oh why, do companies have to discontinue products you have used every day for years? I am now on a quest to find new shampoo and conditioner because mine (a drugstore type brand - I am frugal) was discontinued. The search begins...
Have a wonderful Monday evening!
Secondly, I am not a doom and gloom type of person who thinks the next generation is going completely downhill; but it is certainly disappointing when a cashier cannot figure out my change (the total was $1.08 and I gave him a five). I think we all rely a little too much on machines! The former teacher in me wanted to give a little math lesson, but I refrained. I just smiled and told him I needed $3.92.
In other news, WE GOT TO PLAY OUTSIDE TODAY! It was in the 50s and sunny. Wonderful!
Finally, why, oh why, do companies have to discontinue products you have used every day for years? I am now on a quest to find new shampoo and conditioner because mine (a drugstore type brand - I am frugal) was discontinued. The search begins...
Have a wonderful Monday evening!
Labels: Hodgepodge
Read to Me 2007
Last Monday, Jennifer at Snapshot announced the Read to Me 2007 challenge. I spent last week thinking about goals for my two children. Because of the difference between their ages and listening abilities, I have separate plans for each child. However, I do plan to read for at least fifteen minutes per day with each child (I will be happy if they listen when I read to their sibling, but I want them to each have their own time).
Goals for my favorite boy:
My favorite boy just turned five, but he has been reading for almost two years. I have not done a very good job with reading to him because he spends so much time reading by himself (this is one of the only things he actually wants to do alone). In fact, I think he is going to resist me reading to him at first because he will think I am trying to do something for him that he can do for himself. However, I hope he will realize that reading-aloud with mom means a special time for the two of us, and he will warm up to the idea. I have come up with a list of books I would like for us to tackle, and I am going to give him the choice of what he would like to read first. Here is my list for my favorite boy.
Novels:
Ramona the Pest
James and the Giant Peach
Mr. Popper's Penguins
Short Novels:
The Whingdingdilly
Poetry (read selections from):
Side-by-Side Poems To Read Together
Sing a Song of Popcorn: Every Child’s Book of Poems
Never Take a Pig to Lunch and Other Poems about the Fun of Food
Where the Sidewalk Ends
A Light in the Attic
Picture Books (I hope he will listen in on his sister's picture books as well):
Bible Stories (we read from these each night):
My best girl is two, and I usually read to her daily. I plan to read with her for at least fifteen minutes a day, but my main goal is to introduce some new picture books into her repertoire of current favorites. Because I was a teacher in my former life, I have a large supply of books. However, I would like to read some books that are new to her. Because two-year-olds like repetition so much, I do not want to overwhelm her with all new books. I plan to introduce a new book every few days. For the remaining time, we will choose books to enjoy from our collection. Here is a list of the new books I would like to read during the challenge (I hope to add to this list as we progress).
Picture Books:
Where’s Spot
No Jumping on the Bed
I Can! Can You?
The Gingerbread Boy
Poetry:
Bible Stories:
The Rhyme Bible Storybook for Toddlers (we read from this at night)
I am so excited about these goals, and I hope to post an update on our progress each week. I would like to share what is working for us and what is not. I also hope to share our favorites (new and old). I always appreciate recommendations for books that others enjoy, so I look forward to sharing the books we enjoy as well.
If you are interested in participating in this challenge, please visit Snapshot. I think it will be a rewarding month for all of us. I look forward to reading other people's goals; I know I will find more ideas and books to use with my family. Thanks Jennifer!
Labels: Children's Books
Sunday, February 18, 2007
Keeping My Fingers Crossed
While I know that many parts of the country have been much colder than ours, we have not seen too many days above freezing lately. For us, that is cold. You can imagine how excited I am to see our regional forecast! Yippee! Sixty-six and sunny will seem like the middle of summer! I know that the forecast can always change, so I am hoping for the best. We sure could use a warm day to play outside!
Labels: General
Saturday, February 17, 2007
Blogging Fun
I found this idea from Jennifer at Snapshot. I visited the site Snapshirts.com and entered my blog address. The site created this word picture from my January archives. Neat!
Game Recommendation - Rush Hour, Jr.
My favorite boy received several games as Christmas presents. One of the games he enjoys the most is Rush Hour, Jr. This game is basically a changing, interactive puzzle. The object of the game is to help the ice cream truck find its way out of the traffic. To do this, other vehicles must be moved within a grid to create a path of escape for the ice cream truck. Each puzzle begins by setting up the grid with the vehicles according to a challenge card. Rush Hour, Jr. comes with 40 challenge cards, which include four levels of difficulty.
In theory, this is a game to be played by one person. Of course, my favorite boy enjoys anything more if another person is with him, so I often cheer him on from the sidelines with a few helpful hints every now and then. This game is recommended for ages 6-8, but if a grown-up is playing along, younger kids can enjoy it as well. As a mom, I love games like these because I know he is having fun and working his brain as well (and I will admit I had to use my thinking skills on some of these puzzles)! Perhaps your children might like this game as well. Have fun!
Labels: Games
Friday, February 16, 2007
Five-Ingredient Chili
Since the weather has been cold lately, I thought I would share a cold-weather recipe. Several years ago, I was looking for an easy chili recipe. I found this one in an old Southern Living cookbook, and it is the only recipe I use. It has a very good flavor, and it makes enough that you can freeze half to be used later. Enjoy!
Five-Ingredient Chili
2 lbs. ground chuck or ground turkey
1 medium onion, chopped (you can also use frozen chopped onion)
4 (16oz) cans chili-hot beans, undrained
2 packages chili seasoning mix
1 (46oz) can tomato juice
Cook ground chuck and onion in a dutch oven, stirring until meat crumbles; drain. Stir in beans and remaining ingredients.
Bring mixture to a boil; reduce heat, and simmer 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
Yield: 3 1/2 quarts.
For more recipes, visit Overwhelmed with Joy!
Labels: Recipes
Thursday, February 15, 2007
My Favorite Boy Looks Out for His Momma!
I have mentioned that my husband (who I may start referring to as Mr. Baseball), is not a holiday kind of guy. In particular, he thinks that Valentine's Day is a holiday manufactured simply to boost profits for the card companies. I have accepted this, and I don't really expect much on Valentine's Day. I just made a special dessert and got something for each of the kids.
On Tuesday night (Valentine Eve), my favorite boy yelled up the stairs, "Mom, I know what you are getting for Valentine's Day, but I am not telling!" I gave my husband a questioning look, and he said, "I don't know what he is talking about." In other words, "Don't get your hopes up because I haven't done anything, and I don't know what he is talking about." I just laughed.
When Mr. Baseball came in from work yesterday, he was carrying some pink carnations. My favorite boy ran into the room and said, "Dad! They were supposed to be RED!" Evidently, my favorite boy had given his father specific instructions at bedtime to bring me some red flowers. Mr. Baseball did attempt this; but at the time he went to the store, they were out of roses, and the delivery truck was stuck somewhere in snowy northern Kentucky.
I told my favorite boy that it didn't matter because I loved the flowers, and I was so happy that he wanted to give them to me. He said, "I just knew you needed the flowers mom. You don't have any!" Well, now I do, and they are the best flowers ever!
Labels: My Favorite Boy
Another Paralyzing Snow Day in Middle Tennessee!
Labels: General
Wednesday, February 14, 2007
The Birth of My Best Girl
This is the birth story of my daughter, my second child. You may not believe it. Sometimes I don't believe it, and I was there! I do hope you enjoy it.
As background information, let me tell you that my first birth was a breeze. Although I had not felt any contractions, I was already 5 centimeters dilated at 39 weeks. My doctor was concerned that I might not make it to the hospital when my labor started; so she sent me over to Labor and Delivery, started an epidural and pitocin, and my son entered the world 7 hours later. While I realize many women would not have preferred this type of birth, it suited me just fine. I like things to be planned, and I am also an epidural kind of girl. I guess I figure that the baby goes home with me no matter what, so why not skip as much pain as possible (for those of you who feel differently, that is just fine with me - this was just my preference).
Fast forward two years and nine months. I am nine months pregnant with my second child, and the doctor has scheduled me for an induction on October 27th. In the week leading up to the 27th, I had many contractions. They were very regular, but they always stopped. On the night of the 25th, they were coming at five minute intervals, but they stopped after about 30 minutes and were not painful. I went to bed.
At about 3:50 A.M., I woke up in pain. The contractions were much stronger, and I knew I was in labor. All the materials I had read stated that contractions should be every five minutes for one hour before going to the hospital. I waited about 10 minutes, but the contractions were strong enough that I told my husband we needed to go. He called his mother to come stay with our son, and I attempted to get dressed.
Unfortunately, my dressing was hindered by intense contractions about every three minutes. I also kept having to make trips to the bathroom. At one point I thought about the hours that would be ahead of me, and I prayed "God, I don't know if I can do this. Please let this be over quickly."
A few minutes after 5 (only a little over an hour later), we headed into the garage. As I walked down the steps, I had the sudden sensation that an accident had occurred. I realized that my pants were wet, and I felt a strong desire to go back to the bathroom. My husband was urging me to get in the car, but I told him "I have to go to the bathroom, and then I have to change my pants!"
Almost immediately, I realized that I did not need to use the bathroom, but instead, a baby was coming! I told my husband to call 911. My husband handed the phone to my mother-in-law, who had arrived to care for our son; he then directed his attention to me. He asked me to lie down (on the garage floor), but I couldn't. I couldn't move. I put my hands onto the side of the car, and I delivered a baby right there. Thankfully, my husband caught her (all his years of playing baseball payed off).
I heard her cry, which made me feel relieved, but I really felt like I was in another world. The only words I remember speaking after the instructions to call 911 were "She's attached to me!" (this was to my husband when he started to walk off with her). I could hear my mother-in-law talking hysterically to the 911 operator, and I knew that my husband tied off the umbilical cord with a shoestring and wrapped my best girl in a towel. However, when the ambulance arrived ten minutes after she was born, I was still leaning against the car having contractions.
We were transported to the hospital where my best girl was treated for low blood sugar (minor problem), and I finished the rest of the birthing experience. This part was probably the worst because I was so aware of the pain and the adrenaline was no longer pumping. I had to be stitched up without the benefit of pain medicine, and I almost jumped off the table. I apologized to the nurse for being a wimp and she gracefully replied, "Honey, you just had your baby in your garage. We don't think you are a wimp."
I will try to wrap this up with a few more things that were very memorable to me about this experience. First of all, I am a very private person. No one would have been in the delivery room with me except my husband and necessary medical personnel. The fact is, however, that my mother-in-law was standing behind me for my entire performance. Later, I said, "Oh! We don't have any pictures from my best girl's birth!" My mother-in-law laughed and said, "I do! It is permanently etched in my brain!" My mother-in-law also gets the award for cleaning the garage. Amazingly, in my trance-like state, I never even noticed all the loveliness that must have been there, but she cleaned it all before we came home.
I also remember all the phone calls. When you deliver your baby in the garage, word gets around (I got calls from as far away as Hawaii and Italy). Everyone I have ever known, and even people I didn't know, heard my story. Some of my close friends thought I was joking, but I had the 911 tape to prove it!
The final thing I remember most is the prayer I made in my bathroom. Be careful what you pray for! I asked for the birth to be over quickly, and God granted my request. Perhaps I should have specified that I wanted it to be over as soon as I was in the presence of anyone with some kind of medical training!
We enjoy this story now, and we are so thankful that everything worked out fine. My daughter is still not old enough to understand the circumstances of her birth, but for several months my son asked all my pregnant friends if they were going to have their babies in their garages. I think my husband, who was very calm during the entire process, is over the trauma as well (but I did get a very nice Christmas present that year).
Through it all, I learned three important lessons: I could have gone to the hospital in my pajamas; I will live with my OB during my ninth month if I ever have another baby; and I don't get to plan everything in my life!
As background information, let me tell you that my first birth was a breeze. Although I had not felt any contractions, I was already 5 centimeters dilated at 39 weeks. My doctor was concerned that I might not make it to the hospital when my labor started; so she sent me over to Labor and Delivery, started an epidural and pitocin, and my son entered the world 7 hours later. While I realize many women would not have preferred this type of birth, it suited me just fine. I like things to be planned, and I am also an epidural kind of girl. I guess I figure that the baby goes home with me no matter what, so why not skip as much pain as possible (for those of you who feel differently, that is just fine with me - this was just my preference).
Fast forward two years and nine months. I am nine months pregnant with my second child, and the doctor has scheduled me for an induction on October 27th. In the week leading up to the 27th, I had many contractions. They were very regular, but they always stopped. On the night of the 25th, they were coming at five minute intervals, but they stopped after about 30 minutes and were not painful. I went to bed.
At about 3:50 A.M., I woke up in pain. The contractions were much stronger, and I knew I was in labor. All the materials I had read stated that contractions should be every five minutes for one hour before going to the hospital. I waited about 10 minutes, but the contractions were strong enough that I told my husband we needed to go. He called his mother to come stay with our son, and I attempted to get dressed.
Unfortunately, my dressing was hindered by intense contractions about every three minutes. I also kept having to make trips to the bathroom. At one point I thought about the hours that would be ahead of me, and I prayed "God, I don't know if I can do this. Please let this be over quickly."
A few minutes after 5 (only a little over an hour later), we headed into the garage. As I walked down the steps, I had the sudden sensation that an accident had occurred. I realized that my pants were wet, and I felt a strong desire to go back to the bathroom. My husband was urging me to get in the car, but I told him "I have to go to the bathroom, and then I have to change my pants!"
Almost immediately, I realized that I did not need to use the bathroom, but instead, a baby was coming! I told my husband to call 911. My husband handed the phone to my mother-in-law, who had arrived to care for our son; he then directed his attention to me. He asked me to lie down (on the garage floor), but I couldn't. I couldn't move. I put my hands onto the side of the car, and I delivered a baby right there. Thankfully, my husband caught her (all his years of playing baseball payed off).
I heard her cry, which made me feel relieved, but I really felt like I was in another world. The only words I remember speaking after the instructions to call 911 were "She's attached to me!" (this was to my husband when he started to walk off with her). I could hear my mother-in-law talking hysterically to the 911 operator, and I knew that my husband tied off the umbilical cord with a shoestring and wrapped my best girl in a towel. However, when the ambulance arrived ten minutes after she was born, I was still leaning against the car having contractions.
We were transported to the hospital where my best girl was treated for low blood sugar (minor problem), and I finished the rest of the birthing experience. This part was probably the worst because I was so aware of the pain and the adrenaline was no longer pumping. I had to be stitched up without the benefit of pain medicine, and I almost jumped off the table. I apologized to the nurse for being a wimp and she gracefully replied, "Honey, you just had your baby in your garage. We don't think you are a wimp."
I will try to wrap this up with a few more things that were very memorable to me about this experience. First of all, I am a very private person. No one would have been in the delivery room with me except my husband and necessary medical personnel. The fact is, however, that my mother-in-law was standing behind me for my entire performance. Later, I said, "Oh! We don't have any pictures from my best girl's birth!" My mother-in-law laughed and said, "I do! It is permanently etched in my brain!" My mother-in-law also gets the award for cleaning the garage. Amazingly, in my trance-like state, I never even noticed all the loveliness that must have been there, but she cleaned it all before we came home.
I also remember all the phone calls. When you deliver your baby in the garage, word gets around (I got calls from as far away as Hawaii and Italy). Everyone I have ever known, and even people I didn't know, heard my story. Some of my close friends thought I was joking, but I had the 911 tape to prove it!
The final thing I remember most is the prayer I made in my bathroom. Be careful what you pray for! I asked for the birth to be over quickly, and God granted my request. Perhaps I should have specified that I wanted it to be over as soon as I was in the presence of anyone with some kind of medical training!
We enjoy this story now, and we are so thankful that everything worked out fine. My daughter is still not old enough to understand the circumstances of her birth, but for several months my son asked all my pregnant friends if they were going to have their babies in their garages. I think my husband, who was very calm during the entire process, is over the trauma as well (but I did get a very nice Christmas present that year).
Through it all, I learned three important lessons: I could have gone to the hospital in my pajamas; I will live with my OB during my ninth month if I ever have another baby; and I don't get to plan everything in my life!
Labels: Life Lessons, My Best Girl
Bible Study
I studied the Bible my entire life. I was blessed to grow up in a home and church where studying and knowing the word of God was valued. I am so thankful for this. With that being said, I am certainly no expert. I am not even at the level I should be, which brings me to this post.
For the past several years, I have been reading the Bible through in a year. This was wonderful, and I highly recommend it. However, I got to a point where I felt I was just reading; I wasn't taking the time to absorb or apply what I was reading.
Several months ago, I read Lord, Teach Me To Study the Bible in 28 Days by Kay Arthur. This book is an interactive introduction to the inductive study method. It was amazing! I learned the techniques described in the book, and I have changed how I study my Bible. I do not read the Bible as quickly as I used to, but this is good. I am now paying attention, marking in my text, making applications, and noticing more than I ever have.
If you are not familiar with this method, check it out. It works-for-me! For more helpful ideas, check out Works-for-Me Wednesday at Rocks in My Dryer!
Labels: Works-for-Me Wednesday
Monday, February 12, 2007
Read to Me *Updated*
Jennifer at Snapshot has come up with a great idea. She is calling it Read to Me 2007. Jennifer is asking people to make read-aloud goals to improve the time and quality spent reading aloud with children. I love this idea!
Some of you know I was a reading teacher, and I have always spent a great deal of time reading to my children. Lately, however, I realized that I don't read aloud much to my favorite boy anymore. Because he started reading so early, I have allowed him to read to himself most of the time. Last year, I read Charlotte's Web to him, but we never followed up with another chapter book. This will be one of my goals, but I plan to think about very specific plans for both my kids this week. I will post them on February 19.
I hope you will consider joining the fun. Be sure to check it out at Snapshot!
*Update* I just wanted to mention that Jim Trelease's The Read-Aloud Handbook is an excellent guide. It includes chapters on the importance of reading aloud, the stages of reading aloud, and a wonderful treasury of books with recommended age ranges. This book is great to have for yourself, but you can also find it at most libraries. I highly recommend it!
Labels: Children's Books
Sunday, February 11, 2007
A Nice Weekend (and Some Flirting Too)!
What a nice weekend. Thanks to Grandma and Papa Don who kept our kids from Saturday morning until Sunday afternoon, my husband and I had a very enjoyable weekend. I already mentioned that we went to Outback on Saturday night and that I caught up on my scrapbooking. To add to the fun, we went out again for lunch after church on Sunday. We enjoyed a very nice meal at Macaroni Grill and even topped it off with chocolate cake for dessert! Eating out is one of my favorite things, and we don't do it often. So...this was great fun for me. Of course, I will need to do some extra exercising this week to compensate for all of the wonderfully fattening food I ate!
As much as I enjoyed the eating out, one of my favorite moments of the weekend was on Saturday night in the check-out line at Sam's. As we stood there waiting, a very cute customer in front of us winked at me! I will be 33 in a few weeks, and I don't get winked at often; so I enjoyed the attention quite a bit. I smiled and winked right back! I was openly flirting with my husband right next to me, but I don't think he minded. The cute customer looked to be about three and was wearing shoes with Elmo and Cookie Monster on the side. He was adorable; and his wink, which was very slow and deliberate (I am sure he was concentrating), just made my heart smile!
Of course, when my kids are not with me, I always notice other children. Children just make me smile. Moments with children, like the one at Sam's, are precious, sweet and fun. So, as much as I enjoyed my 30 hours or so without my children, I am ready to go pick up my favorite boy and best girl and enjoy some of those wonderful moments with them!
As much as I enjoyed the eating out, one of my favorite moments of the weekend was on Saturday night in the check-out line at Sam's. As we stood there waiting, a very cute customer in front of us winked at me! I will be 33 in a few weeks, and I don't get winked at often; so I enjoyed the attention quite a bit. I smiled and winked right back! I was openly flirting with my husband right next to me, but I don't think he minded. The cute customer looked to be about three and was wearing shoes with Elmo and Cookie Monster on the side. He was adorable; and his wink, which was very slow and deliberate (I am sure he was concentrating), just made my heart smile!
Of course, when my kids are not with me, I always notice other children. Children just make me smile. Moments with children, like the one at Sam's, are precious, sweet and fun. So, as much as I enjoyed my 30 hours or so without my children, I am ready to go pick up my favorite boy and best girl and enjoy some of those wonderful moments with them!
Labels: Family and Friends, Fun
Saturday, February 10, 2007
Hooray!
The kids have been at Grandma and Papa Don's all day. My husband and I actually went out to eat by ourselves at Outback (and of course we went to Wal-Mart to get groceries - how do we always end up at Wal-Mart on our dates?). However, the most exciting news of the day is that I am 100% CAUGHT UP ON MY SCRAPBOOK! HOORAY!!!! Since the kids were gone, I got everything out and worked all day. Of course, as soon as I take more pictures I will be behind again. Maybe I will leave the camera in the cabinet for at least a few days!
Tomorrow, I plan to hear every word of the sermon without interruption. Unfortunately, Grandma may not be so lucky! We will pick up the munchkins tomorrow night. As nice as it is to have a day to do whatever we want to do, it will be nice to have them home. It sure is quiet around here!
Tomorrow, I plan to hear every word of the sermon without interruption. Unfortunately, Grandma may not be so lucky! We will pick up the munchkins tomorrow night. As nice as it is to have a day to do whatever we want to do, it will be nice to have them home. It sure is quiet around here!
Labels: Family and Friends, Fun
Friday, February 9, 2007
Favorite Ingredients Friday - Mississippi Mud Cake
Today is the Valentine Edition of Favorite Ingredients Friday at Overwhelmed with Joy. This is my valentine's favorite dessert. It is easy to make and very rich. I am including the recipe as written, but I usually leave out the coconut and nuts because my husband prefers it that way. Enjoy!
Mississippi Mud Cake
1 family-size pkg. fudge brownie mix
1 can coconut
1 (4-oz.) pkg. finely chopped pecans
1 large jar marshmallow creme
1 (12-oz.) pkg. semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 tub chocolate frosting
Grease 9x13 inch pan. Prepare brownies as directed, but fold in coconut and chopped nuts. Bake according to package directions. Remove from oven, and immediately spread marshmallow creme on top (I let the jar of marshmallow creme sit in a pitcher of hot water while the brownies are baking. This helps the creme come out of the jar more easily). Sprinkle chocolate chips on top of the marshmallow creme and let sit for 10 minutes. After the 10 minutes, use a knife to swirl the chocolate chips through the creme. Open frosting and remove foil. Place in microwave and heat until runny. Pour evenly over brownie-marshmallow-chip mixture. Let stand until completely cool. Do not refrigerate as this makes the cake too hard.
For more great recipes, head over to Overwhelmed with Joy. Happy Valentine's Day!
Labels: Recipes
Thursday, February 8, 2007
Fun!
The Vicious Valentine party was a great success. Nineteen very fun ladies were able to come, and they brought some very tasty finger foods. I think I ate ten chocolate covered strawberries all by myself! The gift exchange was so much fun, and there were some very nice gifts. I knew there would be lotions, candles, chocolates, etc... Some people had other great ideas. Two people brought DVDs (The Notebook and Sleepless in Seattle), some people brought marriage books, and one person even brought some cute PJs! I ended up with a very nice Yankee Candle.
We had a great time, and we plan to make it an annual affair. I would highly recommend the idea. I would also recommend that when you clean your house, you remember to clean under your two-year-old's booster seat. That way, when someone moves the booster seat to sit in the chair, they will not stumble across the leftovers of every meal that your child has eaten recently. I guess that is how it goes! You clean from top to bottom, but your dirty spot will be made known!
Okay, now go plan your own Vicious Valentine party! It was great fun!
We had a great time, and we plan to make it an annual affair. I would highly recommend the idea. I would also recommend that when you clean your house, you remember to clean under your two-year-old's booster seat. That way, when someone moves the booster seat to sit in the chair, they will not stumble across the leftovers of every meal that your child has eaten recently. I guess that is how it goes! You clean from top to bottom, but your dirty spot will be made known!
Okay, now go plan your own Vicious Valentine party! It was great fun!
Labels: Family and Friends
This Is For You Rucha!
5 Minutes for Mom is having another fun contest. They are giving away one gift certificate for StorkCalling birth announcements. I am not planning on needing this, but my sister-in-law is expecting a baby girl in May. I am entering for you Rucha! Anyone else who might be in need of this neat product, head on over to 5 Minutes for Mom. (And for anyone who is wondering, I have finished many of the items on my Thursday Thirteen to-do list, so I am taking a bit of a cleaning break.)
Labels: Blogging
Thursday Thirteen
Tonight is my Vicious Valentine party. Here are thirteen things I should be doing instead of blogging:
1. Mopping my wood floors
2. Vacuuming and mopping my bathroom floors
3. Folding laundry
4. Straightening the bonus room
5. Dusting
6. Cleaning the kitchen
7. Ironing a tablecloth
8. Shopping for plates, cups, napkins
9. Finding some Valentine decorations
10. Making food
11. Cleaning myself up
12. Emptying all the trash cans
13. Figuring out how to keep my house clean with two kids until everyone gets here!
I guess I'd better get busy! I will post an update tomorrow on whether or not the Vicious Valentine idea was a success. Have a good Thursday!
1. Mopping my wood floors
2. Vacuuming and mopping my bathroom floors
3. Folding laundry
4. Straightening the bonus room
5. Dusting
6. Cleaning the kitchen
7. Ironing a tablecloth
8. Shopping for plates, cups, napkins
9. Finding some Valentine decorations
10. Making food
11. Cleaning myself up
12. Emptying all the trash cans
13. Figuring out how to keep my house clean with two kids until everyone gets here!
I guess I'd better get busy! I will post an update tomorrow on whether or not the Vicious Valentine idea was a success. Have a good Thursday!
Labels: Thursday Thirteen
Wednesday, February 7, 2007
Small Talk at My House
My five-year-old favorite boy just told his two-year-old sister to quit being so fortissimo. I guess he is learning something in his music class at Mother's Day Out!
Labels: Small Talk
Very Special Visitors
This afternoon, we had some special visitors at our house. Aunt Rucha and Matt came for a visit! (For those of you who don't know me well, Aunt Rucha is my brother's wife, and Matt is my nephew.) Because they live in New Mexico and we live in Tennessee, we have only had the pleasure of seeing Matt three times. He is now nine months old and cuter than ever! My favorite boy and best girl were so excited to see their aunt and their cousin. We enjoyed lunch together and then played for awhile. We are so proud of you Matt (and we can't wait to see your new baby sister in three more months)!
Labels: Family and Friends
Mom's Wish List
Warning: If you or your spouse are hopelessly romantic, this is not the tip for you! You will probably be dismayed by this post's practicality.
I did not marry a romantic. He is the kind who believes that most holidays were made up by card manufacturers, especially Valentine's Day. Thankfully, I knew this from the time we were dating; it was not a surprise that came after the wedding. On the other hand, my husband is a wonderful day-to-day kind of guy, willing to pitch in wherever he is needed. He does dishes; he will even clean toilets. He is an outstanding father, and I know he would do anything for my children and me.
Having mentioned a few of his strong points, I will say that gift giving is not his forte. We have been married ten and a half years, and there have been many special occasions (Valentine's Day included) without gifts or cards. At these times, I reminded myself that its the day-to-day things that matter most. Of course, since most of you reading this are women, you know that special gifts every now and then are nice.
So...I came up with a plan. First, I came to the realization that my husband does not have to be a mind reader for a gift to be special. This was important because it meant I could let him know what I wanted directly. However, I still wanted the element of surprise. I came up with "Mom's Wish List." I have a list in Word that includes things I would love to receive. I listed things in many price ranges, including DVDs, pedicures, restaurant gift certificates, even having hardwood floors installed on my stairs. When my husband needs an idea, he checks my list.
I will say that my husband really likes this list, and it is a win-win situation for both of us. He can buy with the confidence of knowing that I will be thrilled, and I can still enjoy the anticipation that comes when you do not know what is inside your package . I know, I know. Not romantic. But...it works for me! Perhaps if you or your husband are romantically challenged it could work for you as well!
For more Works-for-Me Wednesday Valentine tips, visit Shannon at Rocks in My Dryer!
Labels: Works-for-Me Wednesday
Tuesday, February 6, 2007
Cheap Date Idea
Today is the 50 Cheap Dates Blogathon at Shalee's Diner. I am excited to see all of the ideas. My idea is less of a date idea and more of a way to make your dates less expensive for you.Being a stay-at-home mom, my favorite part of any date is going out to eat (no cleaning and cooking plus a change of scenery). Of course, this can end up being the more expensive part of a date. So...several years ago, when family members inquired as to what I might enjoy as a Christmas gift, I mentioned restaurant gift certificates. For the past several years, I have gotten gift certificates to several of my favorite restaurants at Christmas. We spread out their use over the next year, and we have several cheap dates to enjoy!
I hope you like this idea. For other cheap date ideas, head on over to Shalee's Diner!
Monday, February 5, 2007
Happy Birthday Dad!
Today is Dad's 33rd birthday! My favorite boy and best girl had a great time today. We surprised Dad at his office with balloons. My favorite boy picked out a sports balloon. My best girl picked out a Wiggles balloon. As I am sure most Dads would be, our Dad was very excited about the Wiggles balloon!
Since I am 100 percent certain that he will not read this before tonight, I will say that we have his favorite dinner, Swiss Chicken with Dressing in the works; and we have already made brownies (he prefers these to cake). We are also surprising him with season 2 of 24. He has recently started watching 24, and he just finished season one. I think he will be pleased with this gift (those of you who know us realize he would usually just tell me not to spend anything on him). We'll see!
Most of all, we want him to know that we think he is the greatest Dad (and husband), and we are so thankful to have him!
Labels: Family and Friends
Sunday, February 4, 2007
Dining Success!
We did it! We actually went to a restaurant with our children (that wasn't McDonald's or Chuck-E-Cheese) and had an enjoyable meal as a family!
It has been a while since we have been able to do that. My favorite boy is now five, so he manages his behavior well. My best girl, like most two-year-olds, continues to have a difficult time sitting still for extended periods of time. However, Dad has been out-of-town for most of the last two weeks, and I was ready to go do something. Going out to eat was extra appealing to me because it meant no cooking, and even more importantly, no cleaning. Although Dad thought I was insanely optimistic about how things would turn out, he agreed (perhaps he realized Mom needed a change of scenery).
So...we went to Logan's. Even though we had to wait for a table, the kids were great. My favorite boy loves bread, so he was very pleased with the rolls. My best girl was so excited to know that she could throw her food on the floor with Mom's approval that she spent most of the evening cracking open peanuts just so she could throw the shells on the ground. I enjoyed my big, juicy cheeseburger; and Dad, once we were headed to the car, admitted that things went very well.
On the way out, the lady at the table next to ours said, "Your children were so well behaved!" Now, I certainly know that they are not this way all the time, and I know every outing from now on will be perfectly smooth; but the compliment made me enjoy the outing as a family even more (we truly never realize how much a compliment can mean to someone).
I guess my kiddos are growing up! Sometimes that realization makes me sad, but tonight it just made me thankful for the opportunity I have to be their Mom!
It has been a while since we have been able to do that. My favorite boy is now five, so he manages his behavior well. My best girl, like most two-year-olds, continues to have a difficult time sitting still for extended periods of time. However, Dad has been out-of-town for most of the last two weeks, and I was ready to go do something. Going out to eat was extra appealing to me because it meant no cooking, and even more importantly, no cleaning. Although Dad thought I was insanely optimistic about how things would turn out, he agreed (perhaps he realized Mom needed a change of scenery).
So...we went to Logan's. Even though we had to wait for a table, the kids were great. My favorite boy loves bread, so he was very pleased with the rolls. My best girl was so excited to know that she could throw her food on the floor with Mom's approval that she spent most of the evening cracking open peanuts just so she could throw the shells on the ground. I enjoyed my big, juicy cheeseburger; and Dad, once we were headed to the car, admitted that things went very well.
On the way out, the lady at the table next to ours said, "Your children were so well behaved!" Now, I certainly know that they are not this way all the time, and I know every outing from now on will be perfectly smooth; but the compliment made me enjoy the outing as a family even more (we truly never realize how much a compliment can mean to someone).
I guess my kiddos are growing up! Sometimes that realization makes me sad, but tonight it just made me thankful for the opportunity I have to be their Mom!
Labels: My Best Girl, My Favorite Boy
Friday, February 2, 2007
I Continue to Work Towards Mommy of the Year
Earlier in the week I mentioned that I am failing in the Mom of the Year category. Yesterday was no exception. I was preparing a meal for a friend who recently had a baby. My children were busy with an activity designed to promote cognitive development watching Backyardigans while I worked. My wonderful neighbor called to see if my favorite boy could come down to play with her son. Of course, I happily called my favorite boy to the kitchen to inform him of the invitation, and he ran merrily over to their house.
About the time the Backyardigans were ready for their snacks (the show was almost over), my best girl realized her brother was gone. I told her that he had gone to play at Ryan's, and he would be home in a few minutes. Wrong answer. She had a meltdown. It went something like this..."AAAAAHHHH! I WANT TO GO TO MRS. ANGELA'S!"
The poor thing went and put her shoes on (the wrong feet) and attempted to get her coat. I really did feel sorry for her, but the answer was still no. I would like to tell you that I used all my Mommy wisdom to guide her in that moment, but no. Instead, I introduced her to the way all women prefer to deal with disappointment and stress; I got out the chocolate.
I said, "I know you are disappointed, but since you got to stay home with Mommy, you get TWO Hershey's Kisses!" Now two Hershey's Kisses are certainly a special treat, so she looked at me with wide eyes and stopped crying. It worked. She ate the candy, and she supervised as I finished preparing the meal. I guess if you measure success based on results, my method worked. Of course, thirty years from now you can look for her on the Dr. Phil show. The topic will be "How My Mother Messed Me Up By Teaching Me To Use Food as a Comfort!"
About the time the Backyardigans were ready for their snacks (the show was almost over), my best girl realized her brother was gone. I told her that he had gone to play at Ryan's, and he would be home in a few minutes. Wrong answer. She had a meltdown. It went something like this..."AAAAAHHHH! I WANT TO GO TO MRS. ANGELA'S!"
The poor thing went and put her shoes on (the wrong feet) and attempted to get her coat. I really did feel sorry for her, but the answer was still no. I would like to tell you that I used all my Mommy wisdom to guide her in that moment, but no. Instead, I introduced her to the way all women prefer to deal with disappointment and stress; I got out the chocolate.
I said, "I know you are disappointed, but since you got to stay home with Mommy, you get TWO Hershey's Kisses!" Now two Hershey's Kisses are certainly a special treat, so she looked at me with wide eyes and stopped crying. It worked. She ate the candy, and she supervised as I finished preparing the meal. I guess if you measure success based on results, my method worked. Of course, thirty years from now you can look for her on the Dr. Phil show. The topic will be "How My Mother Messed Me Up By Teaching Me To Use Food as a Comfort!"
Labels: My Best Girl
New Contest
I guess all the snow has frozen my brain. I have nothing to say today (very rare for me, I know)! However, I did want to post about the new contest at 5 Minutes for Mom. They are giving away an Open Heart necklace or a gift certificate from Alli's Originals. Be sure to check it out by Sunday. My best girl would love one of their kids' charm bracelets!
Labels: Blogging
Thursday, February 1, 2007
A Good Laugh for You Northern Folk
Do you see it? Look very carefully! I think there may be a few flakes of snow visible in our yard. How do we react to this in the south? School is CLOSED! My favorite boy usually goes to Mother's Day Out on Thursday, and he is very disappointed that he can't go. He had the strange idea that if it was a snow day, there might actually be, you know, snow.
Oh well, we can't take it around these parts. Give us 98 degrees with 100 percent humidity and we will deal with it like the tough southern folk that we are. If you warn us that the snow is coming, we will all run to Kroger to stock up on bread and milk, shut ourselves up in our homes, and hide from the three flakes of snow that will render us paralyzed!
Have a great Snow Day!
Labels: General
I Want It My Way!
Recently, I was playing a game with my favorite boy. He wanted me to be the yellow player, I told him that I was going to be red. He replied, "But I just want everything the way I want it!"
Hmmmm....
Obviously, we discussed how that is a selfish attitude, and we discussed the reality that we cannot always have everything the way we want it. However, isn't that the problem for most of us in life? Most of the time, when I am upset, it is because things have not gone the way I want them to go. It is because my plan has been messed up. We can see this in the little irritations of the day and even in our anger or frustrations with the bigger issues we face in life.
Much like my favorite boy, I must be reminded that I am not the center of the universe. The world does not revolve around me. As a Christian, I am to put aside selfish ambition and look to the interest of others.
Philippians 2:1-7 If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort form his love, if any fellowship with the spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus. Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness.
What a challenge! In our culture we are bombarded with so many messages promoting our own importance, our rights, our needs. This is not the attitude of Christ, nor should it be ours. For if he, the son of God, humbled himself, shouldn't we as his followers do the same?
Hmmmm....
Obviously, we discussed how that is a selfish attitude, and we discussed the reality that we cannot always have everything the way we want it. However, isn't that the problem for most of us in life? Most of the time, when I am upset, it is because things have not gone the way I want them to go. It is because my plan has been messed up. We can see this in the little irritations of the day and even in our anger or frustrations with the bigger issues we face in life.
Much like my favorite boy, I must be reminded that I am not the center of the universe. The world does not revolve around me. As a Christian, I am to put aside selfish ambition and look to the interest of others.
Philippians 2:1-7 If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort form his love, if any fellowship with the spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus. Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness.
What a challenge! In our culture we are bombarded with so many messages promoting our own importance, our rights, our needs. This is not the attitude of Christ, nor should it be ours. For if he, the son of God, humbled himself, shouldn't we as his followers do the same?
Let this be our goal today.
Labels: Life Lessons
