The Years Fly By...

Heartbroken...

2012-02-05T22:26:00.000-06:00

Separation & Divorce are nasty words. Ones that roll off the tongues of society way to easily. An option far too easily. From celebs in the news, family & friends, and recently, people I look up to for Christian marriage encouragement.

Prayer is all I can offer. My marriage has been through distinct highs and lows. We have pulled through, rode the roller coaster, circled around got back in line, and have enjoyed the ups and down many times over in our almost 12 married years.

As I get back in the blogging mode, I write this for my own children. I write to encourage them in their future marriages that they would recognize that real life, real marriages aren't perfect fairy tales. With God's divine mercy and grace, their daddy and I love each other, make each other laugh and have a genuine commitment to this family-even through, no wait, especially through our failures and imperfections.

What I realize: No marriage is "safe". Please keep your spouse in your daily prayers, be their best friend, the one who romances them, their #1 cheerleader in life. Wake up each morning with a renewed devotion to keeping your marriage a priority.

We Have a Winner For Dinner

2012-01-23T22:08:00.000-06:00

Dinnertime around here can really be emotional. Sounds strange? With my family of 5, it's close to impossible to keep everyone happy at meal time. I'm not so picky...the others....well they are! There can be some frowns, pouting, cheers and even tears.

Tonight though was a big night. I thought for sure it would be a 3star night...get it, only 3 of 5 of us would like it...but not the case at all. I'm thrilled to say that everyone enjoyed dinner tonight. It was our first venison steaks of the year. And it rocked!

I will do this from now on. McCormick makes this Brown Sugar Bourbon marinade. Use it. Love it. Marinaded the steaks for a couple hours, then, oh then, I wrapped the steak medallions in bacon. The grill was hot and ready for the marinaded, bacon wrapped, skewered pieces of venison.

Tim, Cayley, & Travis were all digging in before I could even sit down. I was so happy! Adam, well is the pickiest of them all and after some coaxing, he actually tried some. He said he really liked it!!! My heart overflowed.

Tonight was a winner and a complete success. Feeling pretty great tonight.

Not By a Long Shot

2012-01-23T12:35:00.000-06:00

My refrigerator door is a reminder of the good things going on in my home, well usually. Being a mother of three means good grades, gold star work, and 100s on spelling tests all hang proudly on the fridge door with random magnets collected over the years. The writing assignment of my 8 year old son was no different, for everyone else anyway. You see, it was based on a biographical interview he did of me, his 32 year old stay at home mom. Seems fine, right? I’m pretty comfortable in my role as a child care provider from my home and I’m able to be with my own children as much as possible. What’s wrong with that? There’s honor in caring for your family, right?

Here’s “The Life of Sarah Lett (my mom)” by Travis Lett

My mom was born with her parents. Her mom Debbie was born in Florida. And her dad Robert Chetwood was born in Texas. Her mom Debbie was a home maker. And Robert worked at a police apartment. Her mom had 4 children and Sarah was the oldest. She had a happy life and her childhood was pretty busy. She remembered she was cooking as a girl. She grew up in a city. She liked school and her friends and her teachers.

***All pretty normal stuff here so far***

Sarah wanted to be a counselor when she grew up. She ended up being a babysitter. She likes watching movies and reading books.

***That is when I wanted to break down and cry. Is that what my life can be summed up as? Maybe it’s the phrase “ended up”. My life isn’t over, not by a long shot. I had to remember that this was written by my 8 year old and this is what he sees every day. I had to hold on to some hope that this would get better, and it sure did.***

She is very proud of her children and her husband for being a hard worker and providing for the family. She has learned over her lifetime to pray and help others.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Those last words are the absolute truth. Maybe I don’t have a completed college degree, or career to really speak of, but if I can be an example of prayer and service to my husband, children, family, friends, and the children I care for, then I’m more than “ok” with where I have ended up. Don’t get me wrong, I know there’s going to be another season of my life where I will want to work outside my home, but right now I will bloom where I am planted. I will try and live up to the Godly wife and mother role model set for us in Proverbs 31. This is my goal, my career, my investment.

And blogging, where does that fit in? Let's just say, there will be no giveaways, book reviews for companies, or posts just to post. I want to take my blog back to be a place of record keeping for my family, and if something I share evokes a feeling or comment from someone, then cool. I'm going old school and doing this for me. Welcome back.

A Nice Long Break

2011-09-13T21:49:00.001-05:00

After a long summer blogging slow down, I guess this was coming. A temporary bloggy shutdown is happening.

God's Perfect Design

2011-09-05T21:20:00.001-05:00

It has been a long blogging break for me. Lots of changes. I've dealt with each one as they came, and I'm blessed enough to know that God always has my best interest at heart.

My "babies" are back in school. I am now the mom to a 5th, 3rd, & 1st grader. *sigh* They are all doing amazing and each have adjusted so very well to new schools. I'm one proud mommy.

And...Tim and I are working on a new project together. It's pretty interesting working side by side on something together. Here's something that has been running through my mind and this passage from http://www.bible.org/ does a great job of explaining it.

The New Bible Commentary explains the companionship of marriage:³

The husband and wife complement each other. Suitable helper would be better-translated ‘helper matching him’, i.e. supplying what he lacks. She is his missing rib. Matthew Henry commented on God’s choice of a rib to create Eve: ‘Not made out of his head to top him, not out of his feet to be trampled upon by him, but out of his side to be equal with him, under his arm to be protected, and near his heart to be loved.’ Perhaps this reads a little too much into the rib, but it expresses well the biblical ideal of marriage."

I refuse to let my husband just be someone that I see and pass info along too. He is my best friend and partner in everything. I can't imagine life any other way.

Ususally, we have to wait a while to see what God's bigger plan is for us, but sometimes His timing is shown a little faster :)

Upcoming Post Alert!

2011-07-04T22:00:00.002-05:00

Wonder what happens when a 6 and 8 year old boys take over a camera for a couple days???

How about 377 new pictures on the sd card! LOL Stay tuned this week for some adventure pictures ;)

Have You Ever???

2011-06-30T22:14:00.003-05:00

Have you ever seen anything cuter?

The.
End.

I love this boy!

Why I Cook...

2011-06-28T08:49:00.005-05:00

I have not always "liked" cooking. Dinners were just ho-hum, nothing special. After years of just getting by, I realized that dinner on the table meant more. Now, it's my way of saying "Welcome Home" and "I thought about you today."

My family of 5 have very different tastes and somedays I can feel like a short order cook. I'm always looking for new recipes to try, hoping to find one that may actually please the majority. My husband is really honest, especially when it comes to food, so I would just make a mental note about what was a hit or miss. Life gets super busy and now I've taken to writing it down in a recipe binder. I keep a running list of "family favorites" and keep tabs on new recipes that made the cut too.

Where I find recipes...
Thank goodness for the internet! I'll start there and browse around some very reliable and tested blogs, recipe and tv show website.
Here's my favorites:
Full Bellies, Happy Kids Must try: Orange Chicken. not kidding around. try it. today. A little shout out to Sandra over there :)
Comfy in the Kitchen Must try: Cresent Chicken. made this last week, making it again tonight.
AllRecipes.com Great resource for finding great & rated recipes! i love how people comment and leave notes on what they tweaked.
The Pioneer Woman Can't leave out Ree! must try: Apple Dumplings. simply amazing. She's also getting her very own show on Food Network!!!
Food Network And you can't go wrong with Paula Deen on Food Network! Also a great site for searching and browsing through fun recipes.

Easy? What's That?

2011-06-13T21:41:00.005-05:00

Does anything ever important really come easily? Sometimes you come to a moment in your life where a tough decision needs to be made--and guess who's the only one who can make it? YOU! We can make a hundred choices each day, but it's not until you take the cruise control off and realize what's the next crucial question that must be answered.

I'm a people pleaser by nature and serve my God by serving my family. It's a calling I (try to) answer daily, 24/7, 365. Just about every choice I make can effect or influence at least one of the people I live with- that's huge!

Most of the "calls" I make aren't life altering for us, but sometimes they can be. Hard choices are not taken lightly by me and I really prayerfully weigh all options. I will always do my very best to put the needs of the 4 people I share my life with first. I'm not perfect. I can't see the future, but I can live life knowing that my God is bigger than any issue or speed bump I may come across. He sees me through and shows me, ultimately, how things work for our good. Romans 8:28 is my safety blanket in moments of insecurity.

28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

Enough With the Heavy

2011-06-02T12:42:00.006-05:00

To quote Renee Dwyer

"Enough with the heavy."

Summer starts tomorrow at noon!!! Woohoo! I spent rest time today coming up with 25 activities for the kids to do at home as soon as I hear the words "I'm bored."

So with that, here's my top 25:

Homemade Ice Cream in a Bag- as long as you make mommy some too ;)
here's the recipe:

What you'll need:
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1/2 cup milk or half & half
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla
• 6 tablespoons rock salt
• 1 pint-size plastic food storage bag (e.g., Ziploc)
• 1 gallon-size plastic food storage bag
• Ice cubes

How to make it:
1. Fill the large bag half full of ice, and add the rock salt. Seal the bag.
2. Put milk, vanilla, and sugar into the small bag, and seal it.
3. Place the small bag inside the large one, and seal it again carefully.
4. Shake until the mixture is ice cream, which takes about 5 minutes.
5. Wipe off the top of the small bag, then open it carefully. Enjoy!
Tips: A 1/2 cup milk will make about 1 scoop of ice cream, so double the recipe if you want more. But don't increase the proportions more that that -- a large amount might be too big for kids to pick-up because the ice itself is heavy.

Chalk Art

Play Card Games

Draw for art show

Bubbles

Read books

Practice singing

Picnic

Write a story

Watch a movie

Computer time

Write in your journal

Take a bath

Wii

Make paper airplanes & race them

Play in your room

Bouncy Castle

Clean your room

Play kickball outside

Slip n’ Slide

Play Frisbee outside

Listen for birds and guess what kind they are

Play Catch

Build a blanket tent in your room

Collect leaves and research what tree they are from

What home activities do you have planned for your summer vacation?

Reason, Season, Lifetime Friends

2011-06-02T09:58:00.010-05:00

No one is perfect- especially me! I continue to learn and grow, so with that, I'm "speaking" to someone in particular. If you are reading this, I hope you are well. I'm writing this if I never get the chance to tell you.

I only wish you the very best in life. I'm protecting myself and my family from the emotional drama you brought to our life- probably without even knowing it. I've heard you've had a rocky start to a new beginning and I want you to know that I pray for you in your new life.

I've learned some people come into your life for a reason, season, or lifetime. Thank you for being there when we needed you and I did value our friendship very much. I will always be grateful for our time shared as friends. I'm sorry that I really don't understand what happened or what changed, but I've reconciled it and have moved forward. I will always wonder how you are and will ask about you.

I can only assume that things got in the way of us being friends and choices had to be made. That's life and we all live with the results of the choices we make.

We live in a small town, so I'm sure one day we'll run into each other. Wishing you all the best that life has to offer-
Sarah

When I Can't Be With Them...

2011-05-06T12:30:00.005-05:00

I'm not usually an anxious person. I can handle most anything when I have a tiny bit of time to prepare. When my children are at school, they are their own person and dealing with their own happenings. I can't be with them, and sometimes yes, it does bring me some anxiety. This year especially, when my baby started all day kindergarten, I just began praying with them individually before they got on their buses.

Slowly, but surely I have shown them (and myself) that I am trusting the Lord to protect and care for them all day while we are apart. Some days the prayers are a little longer, some may be a quick little "I love you" prayer. Now they look for that moment while we are prepped and ready to go, for that special time with me by our front door.

Our. Front. Door.

The place where I kiss and hug them goodbye in the morning, the door where I kiss and hug them hello in the afternoon.

What an amazing thing to share with my 3!

~Happy Mother's Day~

Spring Cleaning

2011-04-27T13:00:00.001-05:00

Well, yes, I'm doing some Spring cleaning. De-cluttering in all kinds of ways. Closets, cabinets, drawers, and even my heart. Clutter builds up everywhere you don't want it. My heart has been so heavy with what is going with another person, along with what they think and say.

Heavy is the perfect word. I let my heart fill with emotions till it weighs me down and everytime I think of this person, it isn't positive at all.

This is not my character.

This is not me.

During this Easter season, I have to be reminded of His love and constant grace for me, His flawed and sinful child. Jesus gave his life for me. I need to extend this LOVE to someone who needs it. I need to let all the hurt go and forgive, even if they never acknowledge what's been done or said. UGH, this is hard, but I have to cleanse myself.

My life is filled with God's incredible blessings!

Prayer from a December 2010 Proverbs 31 Ministries devotion:

Dear Lord, help me to forgive one person today. I lift up my heart. I won’t pretend that it doesn’t hurt, but I am willing to forgive. I’m not always big enough, but You are and I am grateful. I won’t forgive based on a person’s response, or even what is fair, but instead I will trust that You desire my heart to be free so that You can love in and through me. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

When Did This Happen?

2011-04-27T09:35:00.006-05:00

I guess the window of posing for me with the Easter bunny has closed for 2 of our 3 little ones.

I'm sure I'm no longer "cool enough" for an 8 & 10 year old.

Believe me, I wasn't cool before either, lol!

In One Week

2011-04-13T21:56:00.003-05:00

In one week, I'll have a 10 year old daughter.

Start

praying

now.

For A Special Occasion

2011-04-06T21:55:00.007-05:00

In December, my husband made a special stop on his way to the deer lease for a special purchase. The most delicious wine.

Ever. Seriously.

Now, I am not a seasoned wine taster, but I do know what I like. The Muscat Canelli is Divine, but wait they even have a Reserve that's even better. So if you head up to the TX Hill Country, stop by Sister Creek Vineyard. You won't regret it. Even if you aren't a connoisseur, you'll have a great time.

So can ya guess what we will have a glass of to celebrate our 11th wedding anniversary?

Bless My Marriage

2011-04-06T21:34:00.005-05:00

They are my grandparents. Both in heaven now. I know their marriage went through ups and downs, just like ours. 47 years they were married, if I figure correctly.

AMAZING. BLESSED.

Both drew strength from their Lord and served their family everyday.

Tim and I celebrate our 11th wedding anniversary on the 15th of this month. I wouldn't believe it myself if our oldest wasn't turning 10 a few days after. So I pray that the Lord would bless the ups and downs of our marriage, that it would continue to grow in togetherness and love.

The Hunger Games

2011-03-09T21:16:00.005-06:00

These three words: The Hunger Games, changed me.

This book series is so hard to describe to someone, but they are amazing.

Filled with joy, sadness, tragedy, and mostly the courage of the human spirit.

Literally, I read these books and stayed awake in bed with the book themes running through my head.

I could not escape them.

The Hunger Games is action filled and pulls you in right from the start.

Really pulled at my heart.

Catching Fire, the second book in the series has even more of what you loved about HG,

if it was at all possible!

Mockingjay, the finale, leads you through twists and turns you never see coming!

Thank you Suzanne Collins for inviting us into Panem and District 12!

Anticipation!

2011-03-09T14:36:00.006-06:00

Everyday around 2:30, I get this feeling I can't explain.

Joy.

Anticipation.

Excitement.

I'm on the edge of my seat waiting for my kids to get home!

I love to hear about their day at school, get their snacks, & start homework.

We fall right into routines and it's so nice! Fridays, I have a movie ready to relax and watch with them. Some days, it's smoothies, some days fruit.

Adam 9 times out of 10 requests a PB sandwich and so I always have it ready.

The kids eat lunch pretty early in the day, so they are so ready to snack when they get here.

Do you do anything special to prep for your kids getting home from school?

What Are You Watching?

2011-03-06T20:16:00.008-06:00

Here's a post about tv. Yes, I need some tv time to unwind and just escape the duties of being a wife and mother. So here's truthfully what I'm watching. My mommy only tv time ;)

Some are so thought provoking that tackle some really tough issues:

What a completely relatable show!

Grey's takes on alzheimer's, post tramatic stress, and way more!

Ok, what hasn't gone on with PP?! It's been a tough season to watch, lots of me crying in each episode lately.

Now what I watch for a good laugh:

I just really discovered Modern Family. If you don't watch it, don't be left behind like I felt ;)

Yes, I am a new Gleek! I have said it before- I wish (if I could sing) that my life could be a musical. These kids are living my dream, lol! This is one that deals with loads of social issues as well- ones I'm not ready to discuss with my almost 10 year old, so it's just for me.

And to name my biggest (not so secret) indulgence:

Anything on Bravo pretty much!

Everyday is Valentine's day

2011-02-15T09:03:00.003-06:00

Valentine Tribute to My Family

I Love

How you make me smile with just a glance

How you bring me to laughter with one word

How you know what I need before I need it

The biggest hugs you give

The sweetest prayers you pray

The kisses you give

The kisses you try not to give

How you wave good bye to me from the bus window

How you love to snuggle in the big bed

How you’ll never be too big to sit on my lap

The quiet times we share

How your imagination is always working

The stories you write

The art you make

The songs you sing

That you are mine

To my husband of 10 years and our amazing children, I love you more than my own life.

New Year, Big Changes

2011-01-26T20:53:00.005-06:00

2011 is well on it's way and I'm at a place where I can stand in awe at the progress and growth of my family.

Our life is so full and completely blessed...now I say blessed, not perfect. Not everyday is sunshine and butterflies, but we know that at the end of the day we all love and care so deeply for each other. Yes, my kids can bicker and fight with each other, but I have seen an amazing sense of sensitivity, kindness and compassion for each other grow as well.

As a parent, it's pretty remarkable to stand back and see how life has changed. Just a few years ago, it was just non stop with diapers, feedings, chasing, changing...now it's deeper and they need me differently. I guess I'm changing too.

I'm So Blessed

2010-10-12T08:29:00.003-05:00

Yes, it's been a really long time since I have blogged. The last part of the summer and beginning of school was so in need of my full attention. Moms, you can relate. Life is what it is and mine was busy.
I've never had much time to myself since the kids were born. Now that they are all in school full time, my life has changed. Stress levels have dropped, routines are flowing, life is good. Well, not without it's bumps and bruises- some literal.
I am a thankful person, but lately I am making a real effort to say exactly what I am thankful for in prayer. Sure saying "Thank you God for all my blessings" is good, but recounting many of the big and lots of little blessings is a great way to remember that He is with you all day long. He's with you folding laundry, packing school lunches, running errands...
Isn't that amazing! The little things that make up our day, the things that keep our family running are blessed by God.
Now on the flipside- He's with us when things go wrong too. My 7yr old son was rushed to the ER after a head injury at his school playground. God knew that would happen and placed the people in place to care for him and react in the way they all did. His teacher and school nurse especially have a special place in my heart. Both were so concerned and caring. Thankfully my little boy is fine, but you just never know what could have happened, I know that God had his hand in this situation and for that I am so thankful!

Count your blessings friends and remember "A thankful heart is a happy heart."

So, It's July...

2010-07-21T08:57:00.006-05:00

And it's hot, muggy, and the mosquitoes are swarming. No fun. Here's a quick catch up on us.

Adam is loving his summer school class. He comes home so happy and is excited to wake up in the mornings to get going. This means the world to me!!! His speech is improving everyday :)

Travis finished up his 5 week golf session with First Tee. He loved it! Trav was so proud to get his official shirt and certificate. He's spending the days filling out his Boys Only book and making all kinds of crafty things out of paper, soda bottles. lol

Cayley is half way done with her golf sessions and is reading a lot. Right now she's reading Red Pyramid by her new fave author Rick Riordan. We had a the best time at the SE Texas Twilight Moms Eclipse event that we volunteered at. She even won a raffle prize. I handed her 2 raffle tickets to put into what ever prize jar she wanted and bingo! This girl won 2 gold passes to the Dallas Twilight Convention in November! I was so shocked and for once she was speechless.

In January, I had this weird feeling and I told Tim that this year would be different. Things are changing so fast and that I knew that positive things would be happening...so be ready. Now that the year is half way over and I've seen how much our kids have grown...it's amazing.

Thank you Lord for blessing us with these wonderful children and for allowing us to witness them growing. There's a line from a song that's been stuck in my head the last few weeks..."Life's about changing, nothing ever stays the same." Isn't that true?!

Romans 8:28

"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."

The Summer Blogging Slowdown

2010-06-21T10:09:00.004-05:00

Yep, it's here. Summer! I realized I haven't posted anything on here in a while and it does make me sad. This summer season is keeping me busy and way from my computer. All three kids are home and each have their own activities for me to get them too. Now toss in a case of bronchitis and you'll understand how the blogs can be lacking for good reason.

So hang in there with me through the summer and please keep my job search in prayer too.

Cayley Sings White Horse

2010-05-24T15:14:00.002-05:00

Cayley's 3rd grade talent show performance. She loves Taylor Swift, hey I do too! She put a lot of thought into getting in character for the song. I'm one proud mommy!

The Story of Macy...

2010-05-24T09:20:00.002-05:00

So, my friend Anna is writing this story. She recently started blogging about the characters and stories she's building . It's filled with emotion and depth. Take a minute and read what she's posted so far.

I find it very interesting to be able to see something like this in progress, to begin to understand what makes an author. Anna is a woman of faith and I look forward to reading how all different aspects of Macy's life intertwine.

Here's a snap shot:

I still have your yellow Hurley cap

It is easy to fall in love. No? You think it is hard? You're dead wrong. It is easy to fall in love. It is hard to get someone to reciprocate. Any little thing can make you fall in love with someone else. It sneaks up on you when you're not looking, Macy Schaefer. A look. A kind gesture. A night of conversation. Big things can make you fall in love with someone. A rescue from a bad situation. A night of drinking ending with holding that person over the toilet. A time when that person just takes your word for it. An all-encompassing hold of love and understanding when all you can do is cry. A place when that person has your back without question.

The Story of Macy, for more & to follow along.

Blueberry Banana Smoothie

2010-05-04T08:13:00.006-05:00

This makes a super quick, healthy after school snack for my kids. Quick is the key. On these warm afternoons, this hits the spot for them. I keep hearing how great blueberries are for us, and keeping a bag of frozen ones on hand makes it quick and easy.

What you'll need:

1 banana
1 cup or so of ice
2 cups orange juice

1 cup frozen blueberries

a sprinkling of sugar- i bet splenda would be great too. thinking we'll try this very soon.

Add to the blender:

ice
banana

blueberries

sugar

lastly, orange juice...but this could easily be any other juice too!

Blend and serve!

The pic doesn't do this justice...I had a bunch of kids just waiting for their glass :)

Need a Quick, Yummy Dessert Recipe? Here's One!

2010-05-03T08:10:00.001-05:00

So very simple, and pretty health conscience. I love cheesecake topped with strawberries. I mean come on, it's like heaven on a plate! But I am not going to buy or make one on a whim, so to meet this "need" I came up with this recipe.

There's what ya need:

(easily doubles for a bigger dish)

1 box of instant, sugar free, fat free cheesecake flavored pudding mix
about 20 or so Nilla wafer-like cookies

1 1/2 cup milk

strawberries, slice and dusted with a little sugar to get the juices going ;)

Mix pudding powder with only 1 1/2 cups of milk... I know the box says different, but this works.

So in a dish here's what ya do with the cookies:

Crumble, crush, leave some whole

Layer cookies on the bottom

Pour pudding mix on top

Let the pudding set for about 10 minutes in the fridge

Easy, huh?

Prep your berries or topping of your choosing while waiting....

Serve it up and top it

You are done :)

Enjoy!!!

Marriage Mondays- Perfection is My Enemy

2010-04-26T09:31:00.005-05:00

I'm posting this each Monday. I feel it's a great way to reflect on the the joys, troubles, funny, very relatable things that make our marriage uniquely ours. Love for you to join in and stop by to Come Have a Peace for more encouragement!

You all know that song from Christian radio. "Gotta couple dents in my fender, gotta couple rips in my jeans..." Well, that's how I have felt all last week. I came down with a major case of allergy/sinus issues and was not up to much for 3 days. That's kinda just not acceptable when you are a wife and mom of 3. I pushed through with the help of my hubby. I have so many things that have to get done. They aren't even options, people.

Dinner still needs to get made, laundry washed, homework checked. I failed to get these done a couple times last week. I anxiously waited for 6pm to arrive so I could "tag" Tim. Instead of reminding me of what wasn't getting done, Tim got the kids in bed each night, no one complained that we ordered pizza one night and then had another easy, B- dinner the next. Didn't do much real cooking this weekend either. -yay for the grill!-Yes, laundry is over flowing in my bathroom and clean clothes have yet to be put away.

I never claim to be perfect, I'm just me. Full of faults, dents, rips- trying to keep the pieces together. I know that God works for the glory of His purpose and I was reminded of how blessed I am to have a "tag team partner" in this life.

Now, I do know that my 30 day Gentleness Challenge is being tested...that's a whole other blog post. Praying that with feeling mostly better, that I'll get all areas back on track :)

Marriage Mondays- I Say "Yes"

2010-04-19T09:29:00.006-05:00

Yay! Our 10 year anniversary has been celebrated! Thank you God for the blessing of our marriage. Tim scheduled the day off from work just to spend the day with me. Still working on Dave Ramsey's 2nd baby step, so no huge plans, but just spending the time together was priceless. After our last child left for school, we headed out to run some errands and have lunch. While driving, Tim pulls out a card for me. It was a cute, funny one. I smiled. Then I turned it over and he had written a marriage proposal to me! I was taken back by his sweetness. My eyes began to tear up. Before I could say much, he pulls out a little box. A ring! A beautiful sparkly ring that made me cry. I'm kinda sappy!

We got the ring out of the box, slipped it on my finger, then he asked me something strange. He asked if I has ever seen this ring before. Something told me I had, but I couldn't place it. He flipped the box over and it said "Bella's engagement ring". GASP! He worked with a mutual friend of ours and got it ordered without me having any idea!

I have never even spoke of this ring to him. The fact that he pays attention to the silly things I can go on about with Twilight related things is pretty special. The time, effort, & trouble is amazing to me. He pays attention! He is committed to me and our marriage through thick & thin and I say "Yes" to US each day as well. I didn't need a card or present to tell me all this...

Here it is! *sigh* Tim had his perfect "Edward" moment. I, on the other hand, had a perfectly awkward, stunned, speechless "Bella" moment.

Gentleness Challenge

2010-04-17T11:33:00.009-05:00

If you are a personal friend of mine, heck even a bloggy friend, you probably won't guess that I can have a temper and get frustrated by being a mom to three kids. I love them so much, but honestly they can be a challenge. Why don't they just do what I say?! Crazy thought isn't! They are 9 (this Tuesday), 7, & 5 years old...and they are each pushing their boundaries in different ways.

I try so hard to encourage them to respect others and at school each do awesome!!! Now at home, they are great for daddy. When it comes to me, that's a different story. I guess I get some frustration knowing that lots of people get the best from my kids, while I get the attitudes. I feel like that's part of me being a mom- them knowing that no matter what they do or say, mom's always going to be there, so they feel safe to vent. Ok, now that's to a point. When I ask one to clean their room and I am knocked back with "I don't wanna", that's not gonna fly anymore. I would lose my temper, fuss, take privileges away, bribe even.

After reading Courtney's post at Women Living Well from a year ago, I got inspired to change my way of thinking and handling the tense situations. I have to do this. This 30 day Gentleness Challenge could be life changing.

Proverbs 15:1 "A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger."

I have a lot to learn and lots of praying to do to see me through the next 30 days. Summer break is coming fast and I really need you help in keeping myself accountable to this challenge. I am weak, but with Him, I am strong.

If you struggle like I do, feel free to join up to the 30 Day Gentleness Challenge. Let me keep encouraging you too. Just grab the graphic and post on your blog once a week, or why not every couple days.

So, here's my 200th post! Thanks for sticking around and welcome to the new bloggy friends I've made this year!

Wondering???

2010-04-14T09:21:00.005-05:00

Wondering why my posts have been a little few and far between lately? Well, stop on by my other blog: Life As A Twilight Mom for some fun events & happenings I have been up to.

Marriage Mondays- Blessed By Our Differences

2010-04-12T08:14:00.008-05:00

Tim and I can debate anything till we have forgotten what the issue was. We are very different and it takes a real effort to make sure that we can see each others differences as strengths...and appreciate them as well. That is way easier said than done. For so long we tried to just get our own points across, to get our own voice heard, sadly- our own way. What did that get us? Nothing but hurt feelings and confusion.

Once our marriage took a shift in things, we could really see that God put us together like a puzzle. Not symmetrical or similar in every way (how much fun would that be?) but complimentary to one another to be able to draw strength and understanding from each other. What a blessing! We are different, but we serve our family with the best that each one of us has to offer. It would be like both of us liking to cook-ever heard that story of too many cooks in the kitchen? I think that's what God had in mind somehow. We are perfect....for each other. Not perfect individually, but together we are complete...insert Jerry MaGuire line here ;) lol.

We are on a super tight budget while working on our debt elimination with the Dave Ramsey program, so Tim's always on the look out for good deals. While browsing craigslist free stuff yesterday, he came across an ad for a free red grill. It was said to be in decent shape, but not working and located 45 minutes away from us. Now, I would have taken the approach of this "who knows if it's gross? it says it's not working? is it worth fixing? it's so far!". Tim on the other hand got us all in the truck and head out to get it. The lady left it in her driveway for us. We get there are it's in really good shape...only time would tell how much it would take to get it fixed,I thought.

We get home and I run to get him a lighter to see if it would at least light somehow. And it did :) Working grill that's 1 year old! Yay! The electronic igniter wouldn't work, but who cared at that point. After some Internet research, we found that the ingniter takes a AA battery...we wondered could it be THAT simple? And it was! A grill, sold brand new for over $500, new to us for a AA battery.

An Absence So Great Review & Giveaway

2010-04-02T14:56:00.002-05:00

Book: An Absence So Great

This book was provided for review by the WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group.

Author: Jane Kirkpatrick

Summary:
Inspired by the engaging stories told through her grandmother’s photographs taken at the turn of the century, award-winning author Jane Kirkpatrick provides a portrait of the tension between darkness and light in the soul of a young woman pursuing her professional dreams.

Despite growing in confidence as a photographer, eighteen-year-old Jessie Ann Gaebele’s personal life is still at a crossroads. Hoping she’s put an unfortunate romantic longing behind her as “water under the bridge,” she exiles herself to Milwaukee to operate photographic studios for those ill with mercury poisoning.

Jessie gains footing on her dream to one day own her own studio and soon finds herself in other Midwest towns, pursuing her profession. But even a job she loves can’t keep those painful memories from seeping into her heart, and the shadows of a forbidden love threaten to darken the portrait of her life.

Author Bio:

Jane Kirkpatrick is an award-winning author of sixteen historical novels, including A Flickering Light, the first part of Jessie Gaebale’s story, and three nonfiction titles. Known for her unique insights into the exploration of community, family and faith of actual historical women, the Wisconsin native and her husband have called their ranch in Oregon home for the past 25 years.

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I am really looking forward to finishing this book! (being a mom has had me busy from morning till night recently) It's like the author takes you to a totally different time with her decriptions of people and scenes. The book starts off a little slow, but hang in there...I know I am glad I did.

To get your very own copy from me, all ya have to do is leave a comment. I'll end the giveaway & announce the winner on Thursday 4/8 at noon.

To purchase this book and check out others click here.

Marriage Mondays-Musical Reminders Fill Me Up

2010-03-29T08:04:00.003-05:00

Always around this time of year I start listening to our wedding song...as our 10 year anniversary approaches. I love it. It speaks to me. It encouraged me through some really difficult times because I know that when we said "I do" that these word rang true in both of us. This song was a like another promise we made and when we danced closely, my sweetheart sang it quietly to me.

Now after these years, another song is also so powerful. Gosh, does music do this to you too? It can totally change my mood, be uplifting, remind me of what's important, fill me with love. This is another SCC song, and to me it just says- hey, you are together, through seasons coming and past, weathered storms together, changed into the people you have become together. It's very true, I was pretty young when we got married, but I know I wouldn't be the woman I am today if I hadn't married Tim at that time in my life. God's timing is perfect. We have grown together and I love that Tim knows me better than anyone...good and bad.

So here's the song I'll be dancing to on our anniversary. Got these off YouTube, because I didn't have time to make a video myself...but maybe there's time.

Have a happy Monday friends!

Marriage Mondays- Team Work

2010-03-22T08:43:00.006-05:00

Sacrifice...a word lots of stay at home moms can identify with. As a family, I know we had to shift life styles almost 6 years ago when I became a full time sahm. I'm kinda use to the fact that I won't be driving a new car, or have the trendiest clothes for a long while. The privilage of being home for my babies when they get home from school is amazing. We will survive this season of our lives...older car and all :)

Now that said, we all need an outlet...a hobby...something! My husband is an avid hunter. He has been for years. It's something I know he loves doing and it's a huge stress reliver since he's up at 4:00am and works till sometimes 6pm every week. Well, he's giving it up. I was taken completely by surprise when he told me. It's the time of year again to renew his membership with the deer lease he's on and instead of doing that, he's putting it into our savings to snowball (Dave Ramsey.com) into our bills. We don't have a large number of bills, but school loans are crazy! We figured if we live tightly for 2.5 years, we can be completely debt free and have cash saved in the bank. Woo hoo! We are excited! I'm so proud of Tim and the husband/father he is for us.

Now for my contribution to our family cause. You all know my hobby...all things Twilight. Tim has been planning on giving me a day pass and ticket to a big event on the Saturday that Twi Tour is in Houston. Well, by the time we factor in all that goes along with it...I will have spent over $200 for a day of fun. Something that I'd love to do, but I have this great feeling knowing that that money will be put towards OUR goals.

So, Twi friends...I will miss you & can't wait to hear all about it!

No sacrifice...No victory. (ok, what movie is that from?)

I Really Promise!

2010-03-21T10:18:00.006-05:00

I'm not ignoring you bloggy friends. I really promise to give you all the catching up you can stand...as soon as the kids are back in school on Monday. Spring break has been a wonderful time for family renewal and just good times together.

I'll leave you with a preview:

Enjoy today friends! I know I will...

Giveaway WINNER: Relationships...

2010-03-08T08:31:00.002-06:00

Denise is our random winner!

Congrats!-You'll like these!

More reviews & giveaways soon :)

Happy Monday!

Simple Black Forest Cake

2010-03-03T08:45:00.006-06:00

Now if you were heading to a Twilight party...you could call this "Jacob Black" Forest cake..LOL I crack myself up sometimes. But really, this cake is amazing and so simple! Trav loved it for his birthday- kid & adult pleaser, I promise!

Ingredients
1 (18.25 ounce) package devil's food cake mix with pudding
3 eggs
1 tablespoon almond extract
1 (21 ounce) can cherry pie filling (i reserved 7 cherries for garnish- by baby boy turned 7)
1 can of chocolate frosting

Directions
1.Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2.Mix together: cake mix, beaten eggs, almond extract, cherry pie filling and 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips. Stir until just combined. Pour batter into a greased 9x13 inch pan or 2 round pans.
3.Bake in a 350 degree F (175 degree C) oven for 45 to 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove cake from oven and let cool.

I frosted with chocolate frosting, garnished the top with some melted vanilla frosting- just a little to decorate, & then added the last few cherries on top.

I wish I had a piece to go with my morning coffee today! Confession: Yes, I eat chocolate cake for breakfast sometimes.

Book Reviews & Giveaways: Relationships...

2010-03-01T11:57:00.008-06:00

Book: Mother Daughter Duet

Author: Cheri Fuller

Summary:
When a daughter is born, her mother has a thousand hopes and dreams for her, especially that they will be best friends one day. Unfortunately, even the best of intentions can go awry. There are so many challenges on the journey to adult friendship that the reality is fraught with friction and frustration. But a harmonious relationship is possible.

Award-winning author Cheri Fuller and her daughter, Ali Plum, have been there and have discovered the keys to a healthy relationship. In Mother-Daughter Duet they share their story—each from her own perspective—in which they have experienced distance and tension, growth and challenge, and, ultimately, acceptance and harmony. Filled with personal anecdotes and based on several basic principles (letting go; listening; respect; setting boundaries; and more), Mother-Daughter Duet helps moms repair the breach so that daughters want to draw close.

The mother-daughter dynamic is intense, personal, complex, and unique. But mothers and daughters can achieve mutual respect and learn to celebrate their differences when they learn the two-part harmony of the mother-daughter duet.

Author Bio:
Cheri Fuller is a best-selling, award-winning author whose books have sold more than one million copies. She speaks to a wide range of women at women’s conferences and is a frequent guest on national radio and television programs.
Ali Plum is Cheri’s daughter, a writer and songwriter, a wife, and a mother to Noah and Luke. She and her mom have weathered the ups and downs of their relationship to find one of the most treasured, honest relationships of their lives. Ali has recorded background vocals for popular musicians, and Mother-Daughter Duet marks her debut into book publishing.

Peronal Review:

I read 1/2 of this book and life just got busy- you all know what that's like! I love the kind of book this is. Now, I didn't read this to "fix" a relationship with my own mom, but to better prepare myself as to handle my 8 year old- going on 17! It's like reading an honest conversation between the authors. Each has their own perspective.

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Book: Dancing With My Father

Author: Sally Clarkson

Summary:

The reality of living in a broken, fallen world can leave women feeling overcome by fear, guilt, and weariness. Many develop “sawdust souls,” numb to any sense of joy.

In this warm and wise book, author Sally Clarkson invites readers to take God’s hand and let Him lead them into a life of anticipation, passion, and purpose. With the voice of a trusted mentor, she reveals how, by getting in tune with the rhythm of God’s presence, women can nurture an inner attitude of anticipation and celebration even in the stressful seasons of life.

Through rich biblical insights woven with real-life stories, women will be inspired to recapture a spirit of joy as they follow God’s lead on the dance floor of life.

Author Bio:

Sally Clarkson is a popular speaker, known across the nation and internationally for her work with women. She is the author of several books, including The Mission of Motherhood, The Ministry of Motherhood, and Seasons of a Mother’s Heart. She has worked in various ministries, including Campus Crusade for Christ. With her husband, Clay, she is cofounder of Whole Heart Ministries, which encourages and equips Christian parents. The Clarksons, parents of four, live near Colorado Springs , Colorado .

Personal Review:

I love the prayers and bible passages in the book! Very encouraging reading about how to get that connection with God back. I really took away this: He wants us to find his JOY in our everyday life. It's so much about trusting that He has a wonderful purpose for us.

These books were provided for review by the WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group.

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Now to the giveaway:

Just leave me a comment about how you'll be renewing yourself this spring. I love this time of year...everything seems fresh and new again. Like what you'll be doing for spring break? Doing spring cleaning? Or what you do just to renew yourself?

These books come together in the giveaway: so ya get 2 books!

If you aren't a follower, welcome! hit the button and stay a while :) you get an extra entry for that!

Repost on your own blog or Facebook for an extra entry too!

Random winner will be chosen on Friday at noon :)

8 Day Giveaway!

2010-03-01T11:51:00.001-06:00

My friend Crystal is celebrating her bday with giveaways to friendly followers :) Drop by her blog and see what fun she has!! She's really crafty and loves Twilight!

Going in 100 Different Directions

2010-02-26T09:20:00.006-06:00

This has been one busy week for this stay at home mom. I really do try and commit myself to staying at home and working for my family...goodness knows my home needs my constant attention :) This week was filled with crazy sinus pressure, grocery shopping, goodwill & dollar tree finds, errand running, birthday lunch & dinner, very yummy cake baking, present wrapping, dental appointment, and now it's friday. Taking one room at a time and then locking the door behind me when i'm done. My bathroom and 2 bedrooms (never mine, lol) are done and laundry is rolling.

Got some MatchBox 20 blaring while Adam and I straighten up.

Next week, I have 2 books to review and both are giveaways! Trav's birthday pics to post too. March and April are fast approaching. Seems like these two months are the busiest for us around here. I'm prepping for all that Spring has to offer, this crazy weather has to go.

Have a great weekend bloggy friends!

Avoiding a Meltdown

2010-02-22T08:05:00.004-06:00

Yep, it was one of those weekends. And after reading This is Me, Then's blog post this morning, I was comforted to know that I am not alone...that WE moms are not alone. Saturday was a busy work around the house day...mainly outside. The weather was so wonderful! Dinner was simple and delicious...
Sunday, a long drawn out time of flipping pancakes for everyone. Then guess what happens after that...someone needs to wash all those sticky plates and forks. I get that done...off to good ol' Wal-Mart to get my oil changed. Oh the joy of waiting at WM for an hour. By the time I get back home, it's lunch time. I made this awesome pasta bake. It took a little time, but so good! Dishes did not get done after lunch...we all opted for a nap. A much needed nap. After an hour, I got up and started straightening up AGAIN before the rest were awake. So after the huge lunch I cooked, no one wanted left overs for dinner...off to make chicken strips and fries. Late dinner, late bedtimes, a glass of wine, and it's my bedtime.
I still have a huge pile of laundry in my front living area and dishes galore in the sinks.....but dirty dishes mean we were all together and ate well. The laundry means we are overflowing with blessings. I'm opting for the glass half full today :)

Stella's Turning One

2010-02-18T07:56:00.006-06:00

This past weekend my family went to LV for my baby niece Stella's first birthday party. Though it was a quick trip, we had a ton of fun! It was all worth it to see that little girl dancing and digging into her cake & cupcakes.- blue frosting and all.

All babies & kids LOVE Uncle Tim. He's fun, he listens, it's just him...

Of course, there was a pinata...hit with a little help from her momma.

Happy Birthday Stells! We love you!

Simple Chocolate Chip Cookies

2010-02-16T08:42:00.006-06:00

Really...these are the easiest cookies ever to make. They are really good the first day, after that they get a little too hard for my taste. Oh well, gotta eat them the day ya make them, which is no trouble here. Cayley even asked me where I bought these from!

Here's what you need:
1 box of yellow cake mix
1 (or more) cup of chocolate chips
1/3 cup of vegetable oil
2 eggs

Directions:

1.Preheat oven to 350 degrees

2.Pour cake mix into a large bowl. Stir in the oil and eggs until well blended. Mix in chocolate chips. Drop dough by teaspoonfuls (or small melon baller) onto the prepared cookie sheets. Parchment paper is the best!

3.Bake for 8 to 10 minutes in the preheated oven. Remove from pan to cool on wire racks.

Love & War Winner

2010-02-15T13:01:00.003-06:00

Congrats to Julie!

You'll love this book...and it's a good one to pass along to married friends.

I'll get it to ya this week.

Love & War Review, Plus Giveaway!!!

2010-02-10T10:18:00.009-06:00

This was book was provided for review by WaterBrook Multnomah.

Author: John and Stasi Eldredge

Summary:

What the Eldredge bestsellers Wild at Heart did for men, and Captivating did for women, LOVE & WAR will do for married couples everywhere. John and Stasi Eldredge have contributed the quintessential works on Christian spirituality through the experience of men and the experience of women and now they turn their focus to the incredible dynamic between those two forces.

With refreshing openness that will grab readers from the first page, the Eldredge's candidly discuss their own marriage and the insights they’ve gained from the challenges they faced. Each talks independently to the reader about what they’ve learned, giving their guidance personal immediacy and a balance between the male and female perspectives that has been absent from all previous books on this topic. They begin LOVE & WAR with an obvious but necessary acknowledgement: Marriage is fabulously hard. They advise that the sooner we get the shame and confusion off our backs, the sooner we'll find our way through.

LOVE & WAR shows couples how to fight for their love and happiness, calling men and women to step into the great adventure God has waiting for them together. Walking alongside John and Stasi Eldredge, every couple can discover how their individual journeys are growing into a story of meaning much greater than anything they could do or be on their own.

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This book is completely refreshing!!! I had so many "aha" moments while reading it. I love how the points of view change from John & Staci through the situations and you get to really see their perspectives. Their honest approach to romance meeting reality- with a Christian point of view is appealing. I could see a lot of my marriage in their experiences...like movie quotes, etc. I walk away from this book knowing that my marriage is a wonderful love story and a blessing in God's plan. I love that...our love story! I could go on and on about the notes I made about this book.

Though I didn't get an extra copy as a giveaway...this one is too life changing not to share it.

*To Enter:

1. All you have to do is comment with a little insight to your "love story" or what your family is doing for Valentine's Day.

2. Repost on your blog and/or Facebook and link back here. 1 entry for each

3. Make sure you are a follower here! I have several more books for review coming up soon! If you are new...welcome! enjoy an entry just for the new following :)

If you want to purchase your very own copy click here. Giveaway entries accepted through 2/14! I'll post the winner on Monday :)

Let Me Count the Ways... Day 8

2010-02-08T08:38:00.004-06:00

in january, for no occasion at all, my husband brought me this special little book. "i love you because..." about 100 pages of romantic love quotes and sweet thoughts. i was so moved to tears and inspired. here's the theme for february: i'll post a new quote/thought for each day and then elaborate with a personal story. i encourage you all to do the same for your significant other. it's a great way to get that feeling of renewal. feel free to borrow the graphic and link to my blog as well. there just might be a giveaway at the end ;) i'd love for you to share your stories!

day 8:

the best relationship is one in which your love for each other

exceeds your need for each other.

i love this one.

Let Me Count the Ways... Days 6 & 7

2010-02-08T08:30:00.003-06:00

day 6:

love doesn't make the world go 'round.

love is what makes the ride worthwhile.

day 7:

love is like chocolate,

too much is not enough.

Let Me Count the Ways... Day 5

2010-02-05T06:52:00.000-06:00

day 5:

to love someone is to see the miracle invisible to others.

individually, tim and i are very different. i'm sure people think we are complete opposites! in being so different, we truly appreciate what each other brings into our marriage. how blessed are we to have the chance to really know someone better than anyone else on the planet!

Let Me Count the Ways... Day 4

2010-02-04T06:44:00.001-06:00

day 4:

love does not consist in gazing at each other but in looking outward together in the same direction.

we learned a long time ago that being on the same page means the world to us. sure we struggle to work on the everyday things, but our plans are exactly that "our" plans. not for just one of us...but things in the long term that we pray over. our lives are forever intertwined...and it's so comforting.

Let Me Count the Ways... Day 3

2010-02-03T07:33:00.001-06:00

day 3:

love is always bestowed as a gift- freely, willingly, and without expectation...we don't love to be loved; we love to love.

ok, this took a while for me to learn how to do. expectations are always hard to handle! when i started taking this approach...everything changed.

Let Me Count the Ways... Day 2

2010-02-02T06:45:00.003-06:00

day 2:

love is friendship set on fire.

he is my best friend. the first person i want to call with good news, when i need to vent, the one i want to date!

Let Me Count the Ways... Day 1

2010-02-01T07:45:00.003-06:00

day 1:

i love you because...

you make me laugh.

tim and i have countless inside jokes! it's almost a secret language we speak. he can just give me a look and we'll just connect and laugh. we have had this since the beginning. even when things aren't going right, he can always make me smile...or laugh at myself.

Being MIA

2010-01-20T11:16:00.003-06:00

january is really going by fast! i have been really making a difference in my own home...and keeping pretty busy. sorry for the blogging neglect, but that's real life. i have been giving much thought to february and i have some fun ideas coming up for a month long theme.

stay tuned for that announcement soon!

the kids are all doing well, and are keeping up with the new semester at school. seems like we are just coasting right now, and that's cool with me. cayley and trav are looking forward to upcoming birthdays! i'm telling i can't believe i'll have a 5, 7, & 9 year old in a matter of months.

tim has been working especially hard lately. his company just bought out a smaller company, and he's helping with the transition in the area. so, he's got to be available to work weekends for the next couple of months. no fun, but he always does what is needed...and beyond.

me, well i'm so blessed to be apart of a daily devotion email group. it's so nice to be able to share and receive what is on our spiritual heart with these christian women i have grown up with. this is helping me set time aside to have some quiet time for just me and prayer each day- and i can honestly say that it has been so wonderful. my life is just falling into order, not own version of it, but His. having this group to pray for and to have them praying for me was a great way to start off 2010.

Blessed Sums It Up

2010-01-04T16:43:00.004-06:00

this april, tim and i will celebrate our 10 year wedding anniversary. when things get hurried, dramatic, challenging and we can just breathe, secure in our marriage, love and friendship- i can't describe it. we are a team. we keep each other laughing everyday. we know each other's strengths and weaknesses. he is such a comfort in my life. this man makes a mean deep fried turkey too.

he is not an ultra cheese-y romantic, but sweet gestures are what makes a real life romance. he even laughs when i quote twilight lines to him...secretly in hopes that he will work them into his vocabulary to me, lol. he is a man's man, hard working, honest husband and wonderful daddy. i know he doesn't read my blog, but i just had to send this out into the world.

i love him....simply and sweetly.

Simple Banana Bread

2009-12-30T11:15:00.008-06:00

does life get much sweeter than the smell of banana bread filling the house? i made this one today that i found on tasty kitchen. i omitted the nuts.

I’m Having Banana Nut Bread – Sweet
Added by mrswebbfisher on November 8, 2009 in Breads

5.00 Mitt(s) 2 Rating(s)
Moist banana bread. Great with some softened butter on a slice right before eating.
Prep Time 20 Minutes
Cook Time 55 Minutes
Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients
•2 cups Flour
•1 teaspoon Baking Soda
•½ teaspoons Salt
•½ cups Butter
•1 cup Sugar
•2 whole Eggs
•1 teaspoon Vanilla
•3 whole Large Bananas
•1 cup Pecans, Chopped

Preparation Instructions
Sift together flour, baking soda and salt. In a separate bowl, cream butter and sugar together. Add eggs and vanilla; stir until mixed well. Stir in mashed bananas. Fold in dry ingredients and nuts. Place in a well-greased 9 x5 x 3-inch loaf pan. Bake at 325 degrees for 55 to 60 minutes.

Pioneer Woman Obsession

2009-12-30T09:14:00.004-06:00

ok, now thanks to julie i am now so crazy about this woman & her website. i gave her apple dumplings a try...and i decided i can officially eat these for breakfast, lunch & dinner every day. you have to try them.

i am making a list...ok a rather long list...of recipes and things i must try. pioneer woman is just cool. get ready to spend some TIME going through her blogs, tips, stories, recipes.

here's my attempt at the yummy apple-licious-ness.

yes, you are welcome friends. i'm vowing to eat grilled chicken and salads a couple times a week, just to be able to try more PW recipes. i'm tackling her cinnamon rolls tomorrow so we can have them for new year's. (oh, that will be a fun post!)

sit back & enjoy!

A Little Give & A Little Go

2009-12-30T08:55:00.006-06:00

my cayley & travis have been gone to SA with grandparents since the day after christmas. it's so strange here. i really thought adam would be upset for a day or two, but nope...he's more than fine being an only child for a week. gosh, he went with tim and i to see new moon, yep again, and was so good! he is the wolf kid ;)

christmas eve was nice & kids were asleep before 9pm.

presents and evidence of santa's visit inspected by 6:45am

egg nog pancakes and bacon by 9am

wrapping paper galore bagged up by 11am

ham, smoked turkey & sides all done and lunch served at 2pm
NAPS!

this week it's just been me & adam hanging out at home, cleaning rooms, running errands, watching ice age: dawn of the dinosaurs over & over. he's one happy dino boy. who by the way is turning 5 tomorrow. funny how us moms can recall so many details of the birth of our babies...adam was so easy, even though he was 3 1/2 weeks early....he's been an early riser ever since. he only likes the frosting off cake, so i'm making him a cookie cake. like the ones ya get at the mall. i even found green icing to decorate his dino cookie cake!

40 Loaves Winner

2009-12-23T15:03:00.003-06:00

Kristi-

Congrats! Leave me your email or drop me a note at sarahlee28@yahoo.com and we'll get you your copy soon.
Merry Christmas!!!

Keep checking in for more book giveaways in 2010!

The Percentages Go Way Up!

2009-12-21T09:50:00.007-06:00

Yes, the percentages of me missing fun things have waaaay up since becoming a mother of three. Just between me, Tim and the kids having illness & schedule conflicts, me not making it to an event like today's mommy cookie swap with friends of mine just plain makes me sad. But things happen and the chances of things happening again are high. Sadly, I'm not as dependable as I once was....I am depended upon by the four others that I live with and those needs always come first.I am surrounded by people who like me, even though this is my life...thank you!

Tomorrow I will be making a million cake balls for Tim's company Christmas lunch.rush.rush.rush. but it will all be fun while listening to Christmas music! Right now I am trying to be what the kids need and really make the holidays not about the gifts, but the entire experience. Honestly, when you think back to your childhood Christmas, do you really remember lots of specific gifts, or the enjoyment of doing things together? Toys and presents come in and out of style with each passing year, but the traditions we make and the memories we are making....well, they last a whole lot longer.

So, What are You Reading?

2009-12-17T07:59:00.005-06:00

Ok, I finally saw "Julie/Julia" -loved the movie & the book as well. I love cooking and could find myself easily falling into a deadline of completing every recipe in a cookbook. Oh what joy that would be! The ideas are racing through my head and who knows what 2010 will bring. What was really sweet was the way the movie showed the relationships between the main 4 characters as husbands & wives .

So supportive and encouraging to each other....especially when things got tough.

The book was slow at first, but good. I now have a need to read Julia Child's biography, "My life in France". Makes me want to go out and buy butter by the pound.

And here's Julie Powell's latest book:

Here's the next big thing at my house: Percy Jackson! Percy Jackson and the Olympians, to be exact. My sweet 8 year old daughter needed another series to read, so here's 5. I'm only 1/2 way through the first and she's on the third. Hey, it's been really crazy busy around here! The movie based on the first book, "Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lighting Thief" is out in theaters in February-no doubt we'll be there. I adore having this special connection with Cayley- books and stories unites us, even when we don't agree. What we share is extremely important to me...shows her I honestly have an interest in what she's doing and what she likes.

I pray this lasts the rest of my life.

Book Review & Giveaway: 40 loaves

2009-12-16T10:33:00.005-06:00

"40 loaves: Breaking Bread with Our Father Each Day"

Here’s a summary:

“Why don’t I have more faith?”
“Why am I so bored with Jesus?”
“Why are Christians so hard for me to like?”
There are many questions we’re not supposed to ask when playing by the religious rules. It makes people uncomfortable. So why is it that Jesus invited questions and even asked some of them himself? What is it that you’re afraid to ask God? It’s a risky prospect to begin asking–but far riskier to continue simply trying to get by without knowing. Author C. D. Baker asked himself 40 soul-searching questions which started a conversation in his heart and ultimately showed him more about God than He ever expected.
Can we become more honest with who we really are and find who God says He really is at the same time? Come indulge yourself in daily readings with an honest exploration of your secret fears and thoughts, and know that you will always be welcomed in God’s unconditional love.
Search me, O God … and know my anxious thoughts.
–Psalm 139:23 NIV

This book was provided for review by the WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group.

I read this book over Thanksgiving break and it brought up a lot of questions and situations that I could relate to. There were several days that really struck me. Fear of death...yes, I have it. That's one of my confessions, but as it says in the book: confession of fears, replaces them. I can say that I am confident in where I will go when i die, but that still doesn't take away the fear of unknown, fear of ending, fear of what will go on without me. BUT, I know that everything will be according to His will and His perfect plan. Sad that it takes being called back to heaven to see his plan, but I have faith that He knows way more that I do :)

Another day that spoke to me in a way was: Why does God seem silent in my life? Well, I felt some comfort that this author see it the same way I do. He writes about how "God is love. We listen for God by listening for love. When we experience love, we have heard the voice of God." God is speaking to me loud and clear everyday. I am so very loved and I love so many...

So now here's the big giveaway: To get your copy of 40 loaves, all you have to do is leave a comment. You get 2 entries if you share this on your blog as well :)

Contest ends 12/23 at 3pm central.

Just Plain Yum-

2009-12-14T14:34:00.004-06:00

Egg Nog pancakes....my heaven! The family went out to Ihop this weekend- this is rare- and my sweet little guy Adam and I shared a huge breakfast. The egg nog pancakes were just too perfect and the thought of not having them for a while made me a tiny bit sad. Being the home cook that I am, I have reinvented the to the best of my ability.

Now, the ingredients:

pancake mix like Bisquick, I used Pioneer because I love everything they make :)

eggs as needed on boxed recipe

now instead of milk...use egg nog!

a tablespoon of veg oil

Now, cook them up!!!

In the mean time, make a yummy egg nog filling to go between layers of pancake goodness.

Just a large box of instant vanilla pudding... I used 1 cup of milk and 1 cup of nog. I wasn't sure if it would have been too think if I had just used the egg nog...so I split it.

So, just butter and layer pancakes with filling and syrup it up. Enjoy!

Dear December,

2009-12-09T08:12:00.004-06:00

well, december you are well on your way. you keep us busy and it takes real focus to make sure our priorities are in order. i love our family outings and activities, but sometimes i need the company of "just the girls". do you understand? this weekend will get me my fix, so to speak. hanging out with lindsey and then my ome sisters will do me wonders i think. things just get rolling so fast, that i really do feel stuck in one role of my life....and i have to recognize when that's happening so i can regroup.

tim's birthday is next week, and he doesn't want a cake! what's wrong with him? lol everyone wants a cake, but i do know what he wants for his birthday dinner. little mike's queso chicken- like from our dates at jail house cafe! so it will be a special meal :) i don't even remember what we did last year for his birthday...is that sad that they all kinda run together after so many years?

christmas cards are just about addressed and finished. i have a list of baking to do, new recipes to try, gifts to buy, class parties to attend, ornaments to finish, holiday movies to watch with the kids, songs to sing, cups of hot chocolate to sip, books to read, thanks to give and hugs to share.

hope you are have a wonderful wednesday friend. enjoy it- there are only 3 left till 2010.

Dear December,

2009-12-02T07:42:00.006-06:00

today, i'm staying home and cleaning. the boys' rooms look like tornadoes hit and everywhere else could use some help too. what would i rather be doing??? sitting in starbucks with a cheesey twilight magazine sipping an eggnog latte, but that's not on the agenda today. i'll really work it this morning, so i can have the time when adam's in school to work on some ornament orders. they'll be so cool when i'm done. this time last year, i had just finished the twilight series, but no one i knew around here had read them. what a difference a year makes! it's nice to have something to feel silly & excited about. today i'm praying for very special people- that god would make his plan known and give direction. i feel so helpless sometimes to help others-praying for god to give me some insight to what i can do.

Dear December,

2009-12-01T06:42:00.003-06:00

you are back again. what a difference 12 months can make. last year, we were preparing for a christmas week away vising family in florida. this year, we are looking forward to a cozy holiday at home. lots of parties, birthdays and gatherings to keep us all busy! december, right now i'm focused on prayer and the hard fact that i can't be everywhere at once. let's just get through day one and see how we go from here.

btw, happy 21st birthday to my little brother aj. love you!!!

sarah

Happy Homemaker Monday

2009-11-30T08:59:00.005-06:00

thanks sandra at diary of a sahm for hosting each monday!
join in and link up to her blog for more monday posts.

The weather in my neck of the woods:
cool, cloudy & rainy

One of my simple pleasures:
evening coffee at the kitchen table with my dad

On my bedside table:
back to "the host"

On my tv:
adam's fave show "dinosaur train"!

On the menu for tonight:
i'm roasting our turkey today! lol, now don't think i'm crazy friends. i love thanksgiving foods!

On my To Do List:
the list is so long. there's always so much to do when ya get home from a vacation.

In the craft basket:
more twilight ornaments :)

Looking forward to:
wow- there's so many wonderful happenings in december. i'm super excited about the ome christmas party!

Homemaking Tip for this week:
i'm a blank for this one today!

Favorite Blog Post of the week (mine or other):
didn't do any blog reading last week-

Favorite photo from last week: this pretty much sums up the time at the deer lease last week. it was such a blessed time with my hubby & kids.

Lesson learned the past few days:
just be thankful. no one is guaranteed anything in this life and when you feel out of control- step back and pray.

On my Prayer List:
my dad's in the hospital with infection and other complications. he's been in since friday morning. please keep him in prayers.

Well, Who Knew...

2009-11-16T08:10:00.008-06:00

having cookies after school on fridays is pretty much a given around here :) tim bought me these fun fall cookie cutters, so i thought i'd give them a whirl. i made a ton of sugar cookies and i think i have a couple hidden away just for my coffee break today. they went fast! didn't even have time to decorate them- no one complained!

our leaves & acorns!

then, tim said the weirdest thing saturday evening. " can you make a funnel cake?" i was kinda shocked and cayley was so excited at the possibility of eating carnival food at home. away i went to find a recipe and a quick trip to walmart for powdered sugar. (where i ran into buffy! sorry buffy, i was a mess and had been cleaning all day, lol- isn't that how it goes, when you run into someone ya know at the store, lol)

this was a little messy, but so very worth it!!!

well, who knew i could make this!?

i guess tim never doubted :)

Spotlight Wednesday

2009-11-11T09:26:00.000-06:00

this is one of my favorite movies.

the choice between what might have been and making your own reality....

making a conscious choice to really embrace the life you could be living

and what ultimately makes you happy...

i choose us...

yes, i get wrapped up in trying to get everything done- most days only 1/3 of it does-but it's so nice to be reminded of choosing to be who i am. i am a wife, mom, daughter, sister, auntie, friend. it's impossible to have everything, but living this blessed life is more than i could ask for.

no where near perfect, but mine.

i just love how this scene plays out in the movie...

and if you haven't seen "the family man" go get it. you'll love it!

Recovering from October- Excited about November!

2009-11-10T08:00:00.003-06:00

wow! october flew by! so here's a recap of happenings through pictures :) cayley received 3 awards at school this month! it was so great to be there and clap as she walked up and got her certificates :) i'm one proud mommy to all three!

dad and linda came up one weekend before halloween to visit. the weather was so perfect!!!

i ran around friday before halloween going to the boys' class parties and the night before was reading night at cayley's school.
it was really fun though- trav's class got cake balls, and so did the family. trav was thing 2 for his school party, then a jedi for trick or treating. adam was venom from spiderman. while cayley was a cutie witch for halloween night. mom and richard came up for halloween along with amanda, stella & raylee! it was nice to have them here for some fun too.

adam pinning the tail on the black cat.

Trav found a "rat tail" in the shaving cream game at his class party.

Making a candy skull necklace

Adam bowling with a little pumpkin.
Cayley's reading night at school- dressed up as "Thing 1"

Drawing by Cayley after watching "It's the Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown".

Spotlight Wednesday

2009-10-28T09:51:00.009-05:00

today is all about travis! oh, he such a complete mystery to me sometimes and can make me laugh, especially when i don't want to. he has the best sense of humor & give the best hugs!

last night he had his fill of little brother adam drama. trav came up to me and said"we need to take adam back to the baby store and get a new one!" he was so very serious- at that moment anyway. then while we were watching "it's the great pumpkin charlie brown" he sees a toll house cookie commercial and wanted grandma debbie to make cookies for him. i grab the phone and tell him to chat with her about it :) he put in his request for chocolate chip cookies with strawberries and whipped cream. he is so my kid! i'll post pics along with halloween weekend stuff.

today is also the day he is getting his staples removed from his head. i don't think i really posted about this. 10 days ago, trav & adam were playing with the couch cushions in the living room. no harm in that, right? not till you add in a coffee table. yep, trav got wobbly after stacking 2 cushions and adam was around too horse playing. travis fell back and hit his head. there wasn't any blood at first as i held him..then it started. sorry for the details. lindsey came over and rushed us to the er clinic 15 minutes away. they saw him as quickly as i could fill out the paperwork. did i mention that tim was at the deer lease and no cell phone signal???

by the time we see the nurse, trav is joking around and laughing---that is until the dr. come in with the staples! 5 total and his poor head was so very swollen. a couple days later, swelling was down and drama was over. now, today we go back to get the removed and i know this won't be fun. he has been such a brave little guy.

Heaven....

2009-10-26T13:07:00.003-05:00

i get chills and teary every time i hear this song. it pulls at a spot in my heart that aches at the thought of losing a child. scc puts it all into words...everything i'd miss about them. gosh, everything will make more sense as soon as we make it to heaven. sounds weird, but every question answered, every fear gone. that's the comfort offered to us.
go hug the ones ya love now and listen to this song.
keep connected.

Tuesday Rambling

2009-10-20T15:30:00.001-05:00

Small life
Needed to do important things vs. needing to feel important
Little things bring excitement –
Don’t have much to offer to conversations
Speaking to children vs. speaking to peers
Feeling out of the loop-
So many little things to do, daily
Knowing my “un job” is more important than any career
Needing a break from everything- and missing everything at the same time
Knowing my whole world lives inside these 4 walls
Praying that this is filling
Waiting for more
Getting through the day
Amazed at the peacefulness in each sleeping child’s face
Dealing with being loved and unliked at the same time
Being right vs. peace
Finding myself at 30…

Happy Homemaker Monday

2009-10-19T08:54:00.006-05:00

thanks sandra at diary of a sahm for hosting each monday!
join in and link up to her blog for more monday posts.

The weather in my neck of the woods:
so perfect! cool mornings, sunshine :)

One of my simple pleasures:
good friends to call on

On my bedside table:
"eat pray love" & "bringing up boys"

On my tv:
adam's fave show "dinosaur train"!

On the menu for tonight:
slow cooker taco soup. easy meal after a busy weekend.

On my To Do List:
tim's home from the deer lease today- missed him! just straightening up a bit here.

In the craft basket:
ornaments galore! this week, i have to pin down my alice one. just can't get my idea to work...yet.

Looking forward to:
to a day when coffee tables are not an enemy. poor trav hit his head yesterday and needed 5 staples.

Homemaking Tip for this week:
keep a bag of frozen ravioli on hand...really saved the day last night- just added pasta sauce and cheese to it. yesterday i couldn't even think straight- this was a super easy meal.

Favorite Blog Post of the week (mine or other):
didn't do much reading-

Favorite photo from last week:

Lesson learned the past few days:
99.9% of kid accidents happen at home. things can happen so fast...and mom's sometimes aren't fast enough.

On my Prayer List:
for my sweet trav- feel better baby.

safe travels home for tim & troy today.

I Only Hear What I Want To...

2009-10-17T15:01:00.001-05:00

Happy Homemaker Monday

2009-10-05T08:42:00.008-05:00

thanks sandra at diary of a sahm for hosting each monday!
join in and link up to her blog for more monday posts.

The weather in my neck of the woods:
getting a break from rain. still very gloomy outside- good napping weather!

One of my simple pleasures:
a couple minutes of quiet after the kids go to bed

On my bedside table:
"eat pray love"

On my tv:
only really watching grey's & private practice as appointment tv. thankfully for on demand for my atlanta housewives, lol.

On the menu for tonight:
oooh! heading to lindsey's for troy's surprise bday dinner :)

On my To Do List:
vacuume, dishes, laundry- mail out twilight ornaments!

In the craft basket:
oh the craftiness! check out my twilight mom blog!!!

Looking forward to:

my hubby coming home tonight! getting all my ideas together for halloween.

Homemaking Tip for this week:
can't think of anything

Favorite Blog Post of the week (mine or other):
the recent post i have on my twilight mom blog! i am so excited that a twilight convention is coming to houston!!!

Favorite photo from last week:

Lesson learned the past few days:
love is something that we do- not just a feeling. make those you love a prioriety. you won't regret it. that's what you'll think about on your last day on earth. not that your laundry wasn't put away, or a job you could have had.

On my Prayer List:
family & friends facing health issues

blessed and safe week for everyone.

Thank You for Being a Friend

2009-09-22T09:18:00.004-05:00

ok, cheesey, but what am i if not a little bit cheesey~

i am so very blessed with friends that surround me. whether they are here for a reason, season, or lifetime- each play a role in my life. i have an amazing "honey line"! each friend is so unique and bring special things into our relationship. maybe we talk on the phone once a week, email everyday, FB once in a while, share similiar interests, or are just praying for each other.

all these are special to me and remind me that although being a wife and mother is amazing, i am complex and there's more to me than laundry and dishes.

i love those who i swap recipes with, crazy child stories with, and ones i can call with random questions. we are each other's "go to" for something! we help each other get through the seasons of life- whether it is a time of heartache, joy, confusion, or routine.

blessed is all i can say....

Happy Homemaker Monday

2009-09-21T08:20:00.011-05:00

thanks sandra at diary of a sahm for hosting each monday!
join in and link up to her blog for more monday posts.

The weather in my neck of the woods:
very muggy this morning getting the kids on the bus.

One of my simple pleasures:
listening to adam play in the tub. that boy has such an imagination!

On my bedside table:
"new moon" still & again

On my tv:
big tv week! grey's 2 hour season premier is thursday!

On the menu for tonight:
fried chicken, mac & cheese, & salad. this is by far everyone's fave meal here.

On my To Do List:

laundry from tim & cayley's deer lease trip, start on a new 2 week menu and grocery list

In the craft basket:
ooooh! i'm feeling crafty again! big, giant ideas are hitting me lately! i'll keep ya posted.

Looking forward to:
this week is a full week! tiger cubs meeting, open house, crop night, grey's,- all good stuff!

Homemaking Tip for this week:

this bread is awesome!!! it tastes so much like homemade, but isn't. 20 minutes in the oven and it's perfection! there's always coupons in the paper and online for it too :)

Favorite Blog Post of the week (mine or other):
well, not to be braggy, but my friend julie posted a very sweet blog about her bday present i gave her :) she is a sweetie too!

Favorite photo from last week:

my niece stella bella- who just smiles and claps when her "stella bella" song is sung to her!

Lesson learned the past few days:
i can do all thing through christ who strengthens me! i started partnering with the gourmet cupboard and am excited about the prospects. "when god closes one door, somewhere he opens a window"...i think this is my window.

On my Prayer List:
busy moms trying to do it all,

family & friends,

thanksgiving for all kinds of blessings- even ones we can't even see coming!

The Gourmet Cupboard

2009-09-19T12:04:00.009-05:00

in response to my previous post....none of those options worked out right now. my schedule is very unique and i can't honestly expect for businesses to need someone with such confined availability.
i understand completely!

a month ago, i found this company online called the gourmet cupboard. after lots of thought and prayer i have decided to become a distributor of their products. i'm so very excited! this is food that i would eat, prepare for my family & friends, and give as gifts! there's such a wide variety of foods that i think everyone could find their fave quickly. i love how this is so "semi-homemade"! this is gonna save time and money on cooking- and hopefully be an added income :)

right now, i'm taking catalog orders from the website product list- soon i'll have real brochures in hand. the possiblities are endless. i'm making plans for sampler baskets for christmas time with fun recipes.

so, take a minute my bloggy friends and pop on over to the gourmet cupboard website and see if there's something you like to order. i'll probably submit orders twice a month and i'll be posting monthly specials starting in october.

feel free to comment or email, i'd be happy to help!

Job Hunting, Since Blogging Doesn't Pay Well

2009-09-08T10:16:00.006-05:00

yep, you read that right. i am looking for a job.

not searching for anything full time, my life is so full already.

this is when living in small town america gets complicated. there aren't a ton of options for evening positions. so the plan is dinner with the family, showers & jammas, and daddy tucks them in while i head out around 7/8pm till 11/12 during the week. it's not a huge amount of hours, but i have been praying for something to be available and a company to need someone these exact hours. today i'll go and return a couple of applications and then wait and see.

for along time, i've looked for a work at home something and haven't found anything that worked for me. an evening job would be ideal for me. i'm up anyway while tim & the kids are sleeping, could be home with adam in the mornings and get everyone off and home from school, best of all i wouldn't miss school functions during the day & family time at night.

so if you would, keep me in prayer as i try and find the right fit......

Happy Homemaker Monday

2009-09-07T07:40:00.011-05:00

thanks sandra at diary of a sahm for hosting each monday!
join in and link up to her blog for more monday posts.

The weather in my neck of the woods:
niiiiiice!!! in the mornings anyway- still pretty warm in the afternoons.

One of my simple pleasures:
having dinner cooking in the slow cooker- so nice to not be a rush at dinner time.

On my bedside table:
"new moon" still & again

On my tv:
no school today- lots of cartoons & kid movies. the kids are loving watching toy story 2 on vhs right now! crazy fun stuff!

On the menu for tonight:
probably some grilled chicken & a salad

On my To Do List:
my kitchen has been neglected this weekend- with sick ones in the house.

In the craft basket:
nothing :(

Looking forward to:

a really fun week- lots to do, & big surprises!

Homemaking Tip for this week:
doing the fly lady thing this week- did a little last week and saw a big difference. now, keeping it up is the hard part.

Favorite Blog Post of the week (mine or other):
not much blog reading going on over here- i was cleaning closets last week :)

Favorite photo from last week:

home from school, had a snack, milk mustache

Lesson learned the past few days:

it's so hard for me to speak up when i feel something is wrong...less conflict the better, but when a carpet cleaning dude did me wrong...i had to say something. i was shocked that i stood up to a stranger, but it was well worth it. this will be a blog entry this week.

On my Prayer List:

health!!! for everyone who is feeling under the weather to be up and feeling normal again. there's something going around here.

for safe travels for secret surprise company this week.

Happy Homemaker Monday

2009-08-31T07:46:00.010-05:00

thanks sandra at diary of a sahm for hosting each monday!
join in and link up to her blog for more monday posts.

The weather in my neck of the woods:
cooler than it could be...almost a hint of fall in the breeze.

One of my simple pleasures:
those first good morning hugs from adam. he's very much a happy morning person!

On my bedside table:
"new moon" still & again

On my TV:
has anyone else been watching "the colony" on discovery? it is a very interesting social experiment.

On the menu for tonight:

slow cooker salsa chicken for tacos, rice & beans

On my To Do List:
grocery shopping, laundry... hey, what's new?! lol

New Recipe Tried last week:
i have done this once before and it was a hit!

sarah's sweet chicken lo mein w/ spicy mayo

1 16 oz box of angel hair pasta

4 chicken breasts

1 bell pepper

1/2 red onion

5-6 mushrooms, fresh & sliced

marinade:

1/4 cup honey

1/2 cup vegetable oil

couple shots from the soy sauce bottle

2 tablespoons of sesame oil

spicy mayo:

1/2 cup mayo

2 teaspoons of sesame oil

a couple squirts of the red rooster chili ;)

chop all chicken & veggies into bite size pieces and toss in the combined marinade for 2 hours. then just throw it all in a hot skillet (make sure ya use a big one) till the chicken is cookand and browned, the veggies are tender & carmelized.

while that's going on just cook up tha angel hait pasta.

when all is done- toss the pasta in the skillet with the meat & veggies and let that sit and play together for a couple minutes.

combine all the spicy mayo ingredients and serve it on the side :)

it's so very good and easy to prep ahead!

In the craft basket:
nothing :(

Looking forward to:
feeling that my house in in order and under control.

Homemaking Tip for this week:
don't have anything off the top of my head...

Favorite Blog Post of the week (mine or other):
Jill Savage's blog from yesterday reminded me that I'm not just relaxing and hanging out waiting for the kids to come home. I love being able to be here to get them on & off the bus, help them with homework, and just be present for them. I have been looking for a job to help a bit, but no luck yet. Have a couple of work form home ideas, but none solid. Keeping it in prayer.

Favorite photo from last week:

it's mouth watering good!

sarah's sweet chicken lo mein

Lesson learned the past few days:
my son can be potty trained! lol adam is so there now! with some help & routine at school, he's doing so well. he's 4 and both strong willed & has some communication problems- so last week was a huge blessing when he came home so excited about going potty :) ok, maybe tmi, but i was thrilled!

On my Prayer List:
my kids as they start a new week

my bloggy friends out there ;)

family & friends- blessings this week all!

Recycled Treasures!

2009-08-29T10:47:00.005-05:00

i did a little resale shopping this week- child free!!!

it was very strange, but gave me some good time to find these little gems.

3 large crosses- needing some love, but only .50 each. with some cleaning and spray paint i think they'll be really cool.
thinking of a glossy black maybe???
what do you think?

cayley's reading us out of house & home, lol. alice in wonderland came home with me for .25!
she will love it! just can't wait for that fall feeling to be in the air!
tiny scarecrow for 50 cents.

this basket was pretty & rustic for 25 cents!
after some cleaning and arranging, it found it's spot in my kitchen.

Slow It Down Thursday

2009-08-27T06:13:00.000-05:00

so, i have said this for years-if i could sing like anyone,

it would be like natalie merchant.

i adore her style & voice. hope you enjoy this as much as i do!

life is sweet. life is tough. it is everything in between.

Happy Homemaker Monday

2009-08-24T08:56:00.007-05:00

thanks sandra at diary of a sahm for hosting each monday!
join in and link up to her blog for more monday posts.

The weather in my neck of the woods:

oh so humid!!!

One of my simple pleasures:
packing lunches with special treats for my kiddos

On my bedside table:
"new moon" still & again

On my TV:

adam watching some playhouse disney before getting ready for his pm prek class

On the menu for tonight:
probably some shrimp tempura rolls & spicy mayo- really craving it!

On my To Do List:
lots! grocery store, laundry, baking...

New Recipe I tried last week:
not new, but haven't made it in a while & they are so easy!

easy peanut butter cookies-

1 cup peanut creamy butter

1 cup sugar

1 egg

1 tsp vanilla

mix the egg till fluffy, then throw in everyitng else. scoop into balls, the press with fork to make the criss cross pattern. bake @350 for 8 minutes. perfect cookies!

In the craft basket:
nothing :(

Looking forward to:
hearing about how first days have gone!

Homemaking Tip for this week:

don't have anything off the top of my head...

Favorite Blog Post of the week (mine or other):

this yummy post from B. Jane . I love how she blogs & is so super creative! Go take a peek!

Favorite photo from last week:

well, it's from this morning! 1st day of prek, 1st grade & 3rd grade! can ya tell how humid it is this morning?- crazy!

Lesson learned the past few days:
routines are a blessing to us!

On my Prayer List:

my babies on the first days at new schools

teachers & bus drivers

friends & their babies on first days

safe travels back home for my dad & linda :)

Slow It Down Thursday

2009-08-20T06:45:00.000-05:00

just a little reminder....

this has to be one of my top 10 albums! the whole cd is filled with wonderful, lovey songs. yes, our wedding song is on there too, but i'll save that for another post :) there's a song scc wrote for is wife called 11-6-64. it's her birthday song and about how his life changed on that day and he didn't even know it. so very sweet! check it out guys- good stuff! "all about love"

Happy Homemaker Monday

2009-08-17T04:37:00.005-05:00

thanks sandra at diary of a sahm for hosting each monday!

join in and link up to her blog for more monday posts.

The weather in my neck of the woods:

right now- it's very early. i bet it's pretty comfortable before the sun rises :)

One of my simple pleasures:
being able to be listen...

On my bedside table:

hurray! finished time traveler's wife last week. it was super good!!! picking new moon back up till i can go get a new book.

On my TV:
nothing special- well, right now it's around 4:40am, but we did watch 17 again this week & really liked it.

On the menu for tonight:

no clue- i have to pick something pretty easy off the menu today.

On my To Do List:
call the dr and set an appt this morning! praying i can get in. i think i have a bladder infection and haven't had one of those since i was little. excuse my vent- but goodness it hurts. so we'll have to miss the park brunch with friends this morning- very sad!

New Recipe I tried last week:

don't think i made anything new...

In the craft basket:

nothing :(

Looking forward to:

feeling back to normal again! if it's not one thing, it seems there's 20. this is the big meet the meet the teacher week- very excited!

Homemaking Tip for this week:
gosh, i can't think of anything...

Favorite Blog Post of the week (mine or other):

i have loved keeping up with my fun new blog!! life as a twilight mom has got some cool previews of new moon ;)

Favorite photo from last week:

my sweet little golfing girl!

Lesson learned the past few days:

god has a much bigger plan- just go with it, he'll explain later :) it's gotta be awesome!

On my Prayer List:

the boerger & smith families ((hugs))

health of myself & those i love

my family & friends

Priorities....

2009-08-16T15:57:00.006-05:00

not sure where this is coming from, but what exactly are your first priorities each day?

kiss and hug your family first thing? pour that much needed cup of coffee? check email? watch the morning news? are you top on the list for someone? or are you making the list for yourself at all?

there is so much to do every single day....and so then what gives and how do you make it ALL happen? right now, i'm still not feeling well so my house is really feeling neglected. but the house will always be there for me to tidy tomorrow. i just can't shake that feeling of wanting to have things "just so", but feeling the heavy reality of the millions of little this i have to do each day.

does it sounds terrible that i am so excited for school to start on the 24th? because i am! i have had a great summer with the kids, but oh boy, do i need a little break! as moms, we give & give...sleep...and start all over.
especially with elementary aged kids.

the kids are well worth the occasional frustration, headache, and exhaustion. god knew what he was doing when he built women to be mothers :)
there is always a bigger plan- and we are blessed to be apart of it.

hey- i do see a light at the end of this mommy tunnel.
it's called the first day of school and it will be here in one week. lol

Happy Homemaker Monday

2009-08-10T09:59:00.009-05:00

thanks sandra at diary of a sahm for hosting each monday!

join in and link up to her blog for more monday posts.

The weather in my neck of the woods:

hot & humid...what's new!? maybe some late afternoon summer sprinkles

One of my simple pleasures:
sharing movies from when i was a kid with my kids~

On my bedside table:

the time traveler's wife...finally! about 1/2 done :) i love it!!!

On my TV:
right now, the kids are watching old scooby-doo and tom & jerry cartoons!

On the menu for tonight:
spaghetti, salad, italian bread

On my To Do List:
straighten up around here- nothing major, feeling sick.

New Recipe I tried last week:

made up a new recipe last night! pesto & parm chicken.

brown up some chicken breasts, put them in a casserole dish & slather on some store bought pesto :) sprinkle with parm. bake in the oven at 350 for 30 minutes. super easy!!!

In the craft basket:

nothing :(

Looking forward to:

feeling better! this cough has turned into a head cold. besides that, i'm looking forward meeting new teachers for all three kids. still in disbelief that i'll have a 3rd, 1st grader and a pre-ker.

Homemaking Tip for this week:
my bedroom door has been so squeaky lately. got tired of it and sprayed some non-stick cooking spray on the hinges- worked like a charm!

Favorite Blog Post of the week (mine or other):

my dear friend Sarah reposted a blog she had written for her mom. i'm so proud of sarah! she is dealing with huge things right now- and God is leading her through it.

Favorite photo from last week:

ok, so not from LAST week, more like a few years ago! but i love this one of adam and it felt so nice to look back a this set of pics. he's so small here.

Lesson learned the past few days:

even when you don't know what to say....call anyway.

On my Prayer List:

the boerger & smith families ((hugs))

teachers as they prepare for the new school year

my family

Slow It Down Thursday

2009-08-06T14:08:00.011-05:00

ah! when this comes on the radio- the kids & i can't help but sing really loud!!! love this song & the message warms my heart every single time. He never lets go. no matter what. never. where ever you are. he's with you. always. no matter what. never let's go of me. what a mind boggling thing to wrap around. amazing love.

matt redman "never let go"

New Blog Up & Running!!! Check it out!

2009-08-03T16:09:00.003-05:00

hi all-

launched a new blog today- too much twilight on here & it needs it own space, lol. so click on over and follow me :)

Life As A Twilight Mom

today has been crazy, but i'll update that tomorrow.

Friday Snap Shot

2009-07-31T11:52:00.009-05:00

life has been a whirl wind around here! thought i'd post some pics to show what we have been up to :) tim was in the hospital with a kidney stone & complications from last tuesday- home for less that 24 hours on friday- then back in the hospital till this past monday evening. he's home and doing so much better now! so here's what we were doing before:

trav on the jet ski after troy & lindsey bailed. he's perfectly safe- they key is no where near him, lol.

we have had a couple fun cook outs at the lake! i'll post my new go-to chicken/veggie kabob recipe next week. it was soooo good!

adam finished up his summer classes yesterday! what a big boy getting on the bus! i'm so proud of him. although he has a long way to go with catching up speech wise- he is improving and i'm so happy with our school district's special service dept.

time to start thinking about back to school again- aug 24th!

cayley is coming home on sunday! she's had a 3 week vacation with my parents, but she sounds ready to be back home. i miss her too, but know she's having a ton of fun.

and....the never ending project of decluttering and organizing our home has begun again. the goal this time is to maximize using the space we have- starting with our bathroom & master closet. they are so big and could be used more wisely.

i finished "julie/julia" while at the hospital with tim last week, and my new book should arrive wednesday next week!!!!

so happy friday- enjoy your weekend! i'm headed back to the tasks at hand :)

nice catching up with you

Summer Movie Season

2009-07-15T06:07:00.001-05:00

is anyone else super excited about the latest harry potter movie coming out this week??? well, we sure are! i read the last 3 books in the series of 7 during the hurricane last fall and loved them! she writes so vivdly! all five us of love the movies and the great music just draws you in. looking forward to a fun little movie escape this weekend. for my bday, tim bought me the first 5 movies in a collector set edition! needless to say we haven't been able to get enough of HP around here- especially with watching them on the "wall" with the projector!

this summer movie season has been awesome!

transformers- super cool

the new terminator-good

my sister's keeper-very touching, sad, different from the book

now, hp this week! oh, i'm reading "julie/julia" and it's so good! the movie with amy adams & meryl streep opens aug 7th :) and "the time traveler's wife" is next on my summer reading/movie list! the preview alone made me cry!

A July Weekend

2009-07-11T14:18:00.006-05:00

so, my sister and her sweet baby girl came up to visit this weekend and i had to take advantage of this gorgeous (but warm) weather. look a ther eyes and how the colors of her dress just bring them out even more! what a sweetie- and so good to smile for her auntie.

does it get any sweeter than a new mommy and her baby girl???

here's my trav! all smiles as he indulges me for a minute :)

then off to feed (chase) the ducks- cayley was so good to remember the bread- as i forgot!

my sweet baby faced adam- well, he wouldn't be still, lol, but if he did- it wouldn't be adam.

and last night was cayley's last night of golf and we all went to see her last class.
here's my sweet hubby- i'm so proud of him! he's lost 3 pant sizes in 1 month and is so working on getting healthy :)

this is the definition of focus.
she does get it from her daddy!

i had to set the timer and try and get one shot with everyone :)

Slow it Down Thursdays

2009-07-09T06:31:00.000-05:00

just a happy little summer tune :)

if you are a fan of christian music-you'll recognize jimmy needhams' voice...

he sings "forgiven & loved" awesome song too!

happy thursday & enjoy!

Spotlight Wednesdays

2009-07-08T08:55:00.006-05:00

today is all about cayley! i'm telling you-she's growing up too fast, even with her parents keeping a very watchful eye on her every move. yesterday was another lost tooth day and another late night tooth fairy visit ;) just wondering if she'll stop being my baby before she runs out of baby teeth. yesterday, she just began sweeping the kitchen for me! just up and did it without me asking-what a sweetheart. just now, she came in saying that she made her own chocolate milk- yes, i hover.

this weekend she is leaving for her vacation in SA & LV. 3 weeks is an awfully long time in the life of a mom missing her child...but i know it will go by so quickly for her- filled with doing her favorite things.

she's going into 3rd grade this august. it's so odd, because i remember 3rd grade so well. so, here's me- bracing for change and enjoying the snuggle time.

Happy Homemaker Monday

2009-07-06T09:04:00.013-05:00

thanks sandra at diary of a stay at home mom for hosting :)

The weather in my neck of the woods: humidity has taken over!

One of my simple pleasures: waking up to a clean kitchen :)

On my bedside table: well, i finished reading "my sister's keeper" yesterday so i am free to see the movie this week with some friends! yay! now, back to "the host"

On my TV: rented "bride wars" it was ok. cayley really wanted to see "princess protection program". watched that w/ her and probably liked that more then "bride wars" lol

On the menu for tonight: slow cooker special! green beans & red potatoes w/ sausage. yummy!

On my To Do List:unpack trav, start on dinner early, hang w/ the kids at home.

New Recipe I tried last week: i made mini cheesecakes for 4th of july!!! they were so perfect & super easy!

12 NILLA Wafers

2 pkg. (8 oz. each) cream cheese, softened
1 tsp. vanilla

1/2 cup sugar
2 eggs
blueberry pie filling, whipped cream, sliced strawberries

PREHEAT oven to 325°F. Place 1 wafer in each of 12 paper-lined medium muffin cups. Beat cream cheese, vanilla and sugar in large bowl with electric mixer on medium speed until well blended. Add eggs, 1 at a time, beating on low speed after each addition just until blended. Spoon evenly into prepared muffin cups 3/4 full.

BAKE 20 to 25 min. or until centers are almost set. Cool. Refrigerate 4 hours then top with fruit and cream before serving - get it: red, white & blue!
this was awesome for portion control too.

In the craft basket: nada

Looking forward to: winning the lottery- well, i'd have to play first, lol. so besides that, looking forward to a movie night this week.

Homemaking Tip for this week: more like a money saver tip: ck out what your local library has on dvd for the kids. they picked out 4 last week and have loved it. and free! watched anne of green gables -and are on the list for the other 2 movies in the series- because of winn dixie, meet the robinsons-if you & your kids haven't seen this by disney, you should really find it! it is so good and adam loves it! and it's waaaay too hot to be playing outside.

Favorite Blog Post of the week (mine or other): jill savage's "yes mom challenge" . i'm really trying to just make it happen a little everyday.

Favorite photo from last week:

cayley & adam enjoying some bouncing on my bed while i was in between changing linens.

Lesson learned the past few days: being a "yes" mom takes a real effort on my part, but well worth it. my little guy had some harmless fun!

On my Prayer List: my little family- i'm keeping our finances in prayer and trying to find a way to bring in a little extra income...summers are expensive.

"Yes" Mom Challenge

2009-06-30T07:56:00.005-05:00

ok, this is so hard for me, but i do find myself saying "no"so much more than "yes". so i'll focus on saying more "yes" to the kids and harmless fun. if you read in jill savage's blog-i find myself guilty of being selfish with kid activities-like i don't want to have to clean up more, or just plain end up with anything more to do that i already have going on. you know my day is a full plate of busy! but they need fun! so here's to having more "fun mom" days, won't you join me?!

jill is having a giveaway when you post on her blog your "yes" mom stories...here's what she has to say "Anyone who posts a "yes mom" story to this post from today through the month of July, will be entered to win a Hearts at Home mom gift package, full of mom resources designed to encourage you! And here's the best part: the more you say "yes," and share your "yes" stories, the more times you are entered into the August 1 drawing. And the more we are all encouraged!"

sounds like a plan- i wonder what fun will the kids suggest we have today??? i'd love to hear what you all say "yes" to. take pics, share & document all the fun, crazy things :)