Passing Down My Skilz

This year Mae has decided to give a couple gifts to her friends for Christmas.  She bought a couple candy bars but wanted something else to go with them.  This got me to thinking about friendship bracelets.  I knew it would be something crafty and easy enough for Mae.  I used to make these bracelets back when I was in Jr. High, but I can't remember any of the patterns except for a basic braid.  So I went online to find some simple patterns for her.

After finding a few simple patterns, I dusted off my friendship bracelet making skilz.  Funny how quickly it all comes back, kinda like riding a bike.  I made a sample bracelet for Mae, and then I passed on my mad skilz, which incudes; jeans, safety pin, thread, and an intense concentration.  Kinda like this

Watching Mae, I feel like I've been transported back to my early teens.  But without the size 2 jeans.

Isabel Randomness

The other day Isabel and I were hanging out in the living room.  We weren't really talking about anything in particular or playing any game.  It was during this span of time when she, while doing a cartwheel, blurted out "I really wish I could swing on a vine!".

It was one of those moments where you stop for a second and try to connect the dots and figure out where this statement came from.  The next second finds you laughing out loud while the child just stands there, aghast that your laughing at what she said, staring at you.

It couldn't be helped.  Isabel says the silliest things sometimes.  And we love her for it.

Stock-ing Stuffers

I think I'll get the kids one of these for Christmas.  It'll make for a nice addition to the backyard, dontcha think?

Cider...Mmmmm

When my parents came to visit for Thanksgiving they didn't come empty handed.  They came bearing gifts.  For example, they brought one of these

Yep.  A one gallon jug of apple cider.  And when it's heated up, it's super-yum!

Not sure what I'll do with the big ol' jug when we're done with the cider though.  Maybe we'll make some moonshine!

Settle Down

I was at Target yesterday, getting some flea stuff for the cats, when I saw this other stuff

It is recommended for issues like 'destructive behavior' and 'inappropriate marking'.  Makes me wonder......doest this stuff come in a child version?

What I Made For Breakfast

The day after Thanksgiving I made this for breakfast

It's sliced peppers with eggs cooked in the middle.  I saw the recipe/idea on Pinterest recently and decided to give it a try.  And there were no complaints from any of the partakes.  Thank you Pinterest!

Peek-A-Boo

The other day I was in my bathroom getting ready for the day when I heard Jane, our cat, meowing at me in her diminutive little voice.  She was outside, this I knew for sure, but I could tell from the sound that she was very near.  And as I looked up at the sliver of a bathroom window that we have, I saw Jane's little head peeking in at me.  It had begun to rain a little and Jane found a dry spot under the eaves and close enough to my window to tell me that she'd like to come inside, please.

Thanksgiving Table

This was our table for Thanksgiving this year.  There are a few things to note about this table.  At least, things that I will always remember.

- the table was set for 12 (plus a highchair), 8 adults, 4 kids.
- the first year we were able to host my parents!
- we had a bbq turkey and ham
- and lots of other good food (I'm quite proud of the cornbread stuffing and cranberry compote I made)
- my mom helped with the table settings, she brought the gold chargers and made the place cards
- I got to use my crystal stemware! (most of them have been in boxes since we got married....that's 15 years of storage!)
- the meal was timed to perfection.  All meat and dishes were done when planned, and all guests present.  Per. fect. timing!

The major plus to hosting Thanksgiving is all the leftovers.  Yum!  But most of all I will remember this year as the year we hosted a big family Thanksgiving.  I am very thankful.

What To Do When....

It's the day after Thanksgiving and...

1 - you still have guests
2 - put up the Christmas tree and started decorating
3 - played a few rounds of Mexican Train while the kids were distracted with a movie
4 - wrapped Christmas presents so my parents can take them home when they leave so I won't have to jam the truck with them when we travel next month
5 - stayed up late and was about to go to sleep when I realized I have a handful of minutes to get a blog post in before 'today' turns into 'tomorrow'

I'll tell you what you do....you lay in bed as your husbands sleeps soundly next to you and you type out a blog post on your iPhone and hope that typing with just one finger can be accurate and fast enough to make the 11:59 deadline. That's what! Yikes!!

So Thankful

It's late and I'm too tired (and full of good food) to write anything of worth today.

Maybe tomorrow.

When my tummy is not quite so full.

My College Courses Being Put To Use

I am busy getting my house ready for visitors and guests for Thanksgiving.  This includes the vacuum, cleansers, paper towels and child labor.  I"m also getting food things ready.  For that I am employed the use of my Kitchen Aid mixer, oven, rolling pin, and lots of flour.  Put all those things together and you have a house clean and ready to serve guests and good food.

But don't forget about the decor!

I rummaged through my yard and found some good things throw into a vase and adorn my table.  I'm putting my college education to work here (well, some of it anyway) - thank you floral design classes!

Inside the vase is pomegranates, which you can't see too well in the picture, but trust me they are a beautiful red.  Then I found some horsetail that had the seed pods on the tips (at least I think it is horsetail). Then I added some fall foliage from an obliging tree (I don't know that name of the tree *sigh*).  I scattered some extra leaves around the vase and picked a few more pomegranates to place around the base.

So there you have it, my college classes employed for Thanksgiving!

Things I Love

cozy socks on chilly days
a good movie on rainy days with the kids
those tiny marshmallows that melt in hot chocolate
a new twisty scarf (made by me, admired by others)
the word 'sale' and 'clearance' followed by a color
gift cards for stores I frequent
coupons
stores that accepts coupons from their rivals
my crockpot
my crockpot when it's plugged in and turned on
getting Christmas shopping done early
having the presents wrapped early
Pinterest
new recipes
new craft ideas (also related to Pinterest)
chocolate covered almonds (protein AND antioxidants!)

Oh To Be Young

I used to keep a running list of what we owed the kids for doing chores.  It was handy to have, I thought.  I'd add to the column of each kid after a chore was completed, then I'd dole out cash whenever I happened to find any in my possession (which wasn't often, hence the running list).

But we don't really have the accumulative list anymore.  Not since Ryan opened bank accounts for the kids.  Now we just transfer money into their accounts when they earn it.  Which is handy, too, in it's own way since I rarely ever have cash to give them.

Now, instead of them being excited when I pass out the cash and as they load up their piggy banks, they get super-excited when their bank statements come in the mail.  I've never seen such excitement over a bank statement.  Though I can imagine what it's like, if I were a kid receiving one.

I wish I got that excited over mail with my name on it.

She Knows What She Likes

Isabel is a little preoccupied with cats.  I have no idea who she gets that from either!

If she's drawing, it's about cats.

If she's writing a story, it's about cats.

If she picks out a new toy, it's a cat.

And if she's picking out books......

it's about cats.

I'm tellin' ya, she's ob-sessed!

Happy Ho Ho Ho To You!

It couldn't be helped.  I had to do it.  Had to!!!  It was beckoning me, and as a Borg would say 'resistance is futile'.

I succumbed.  Christmas music is officially playing inside my truck.

I know, I know.  Thanksgiving hasn't happened yet and here I am playing music for a season that isn't 'officially' here.

Oh well!  Isabel and I are having fun rocking' out to Drummer Boy and Carol of the Bells (my favorite!).  Next up, some Christmas Harry!  Yay for Christmas music!!!!

Photo Friday

The highlight of my summers, these past few years, have been boogie boarding week with my friends.  We usually hit the surf when our kids are in VBS and make it back just in time to pick them up.  However, as much as I look forward to that week throughout the year, and enjoy the time with friends and being pushed by fantastic waves.....I had a different highlight this past summer.  For this year my mom and my brothers kids came to visit for a few days!

After I got over the shock of oh-my-gosh-there-is-going-to-be-six-kids-in-my-house!!!, I quickly got the house in order and things situated to accommodate my four visitors.  Then I planned out what we would do.  As it turned out, we went to the beach twice and hung around the pool most of the time.  And it was GREAT!  I wouldn't mind adding this to our summer every year!

(here are a few snapshots of the time we had)

Mom, Mae and Haylee (one of the BEST days at the beach!)

Mae and Isaac getting some 'air'

Us girls getting some 'air' (I got my mom to jump!).  I can't tell you how long we tried to get this picture, maybe that's why Isabel didn't get very high she was tired. 

Works Every Time

Have you had a bad day?  One of those terrible, horrible, really bad, no-good, kind of days?  And maybe you just need to laugh and let out the yuck of the day?

Well, this clip will make me laugh.  Every.  Time.



*it's not a great quality video, but it get the point across.  besides, it's probably the best laugh scene.  ever!

Night Number 3

Earlier this week I posted about a change we've made in the nighttime routine concerning the kids.  We've let Mae stay up an extra half hour in hopes of squashing the evening fights and chaos that has become the norm.  Tonight was only the third night, but I must say what a difference it's made!

There has not been any of the noise and thumps, or giggling, or lights streaming from the girls room.  Instead, the house has been peaceful and content.  Isabel has been able to wind down without interuption, and last night she even asleep before Mae went to bed.  And I do believe that Mae has enjoyed her time of quiet coloring as well.  I hadn't thought of it until now, but she doesn't really get a chance to unwind from her day in peace since she shares a room.

Overall I'd say this was a great decision.  I hope I didn't just jinx what we've got going on....but I doubt it.

That Sinking Feeling

You know that feeling of absolute dread and horror that comes over a mother?  The feeling of not being in control and not knowing what is happening or how to stop time so you can figure it out??  Well, I had that tonight.  Thankfully for just a handful of minutes.

Mae and Caleb had finished their homework and I heard the front door close behind them as they headed out to play.  No one told me where they were going or what they were doing, but I assumed it was the usual, across the street to play with the neighbor kids.

It's gets dark sooner now that we are observing Daylight Savings.  "Dark" is now a little after 5:00, and it was about 5:15 when I closed the blinds around the house and headed outside to call the kids in.  I did not see or hear them in the neighborhood.  I called out and no one came running.  I went to the neighbors house to see if Mae and Caleb had gone inside to play, but the boy that came to the door said they were not there.

At this point I start telling myself not to freak out, the kids are probably playing quietly in the backyard at home.  That's what I do, I shove freaked-out emotions away and tell them that there is a reason for what is going on and that they are not needed here.  And usually I'm right and freaked-out-emotions never get the chance to surface.  But tonight they came out a little bit, for the kids were not in the backyard.

At this point Ryan gets his jacket on and heads out front and starts yelling their names.  And yelling their names.  My mind doesn't want to freak out but the thoughts start coming too fast to control.  Like angry bees out of a hive, I start thinking.....have I taught them enough to survive a horrible situation?, do we need to call the police?, can I check at the neighbors one more time?, it's getting dark, can someone please turn the light back on so I can find my kids??!?!?!!

As I head back outside and to the street where Ryan is yelling, I begin to hear the kids.  Then I see them as they emerge from the neighbors backyard.  Relief floods in and sweeps the bees of fear away.  Then after talking with the kids about telling us where they are going, I get shaky with relief and fear again as my mind replays the reels of the last five minutes and what could have happened.

Thank you, Lord, for watching over Mae and Caleb.  Thank you that this situation turned out well.  Thank you that my children are home and safe tonight.  Amen

This Has Been A Test

Every night it's the same thing, tuck the girls in only to return to the room several times to tell them to 'quiet down', 'stop fighting', and/or (but not limited to) 'go to bed!'.  It's so exhausting.  I wish it was them that was tired out, but it's not.  And after the fighting and tears last night, we knew things had to change.

Ryan and I talked about it and have come to this conclusion - Mae will stay up for a half hour after the others have been tucked in.  She can read or quietly draw and have a little down time before going to bed.  It is our hope that Isabel will go to sleep during this time or at least be relaxed and close to la-la land.

We are taking this change on a trial run basis.  Meaning, we'll see how it goes.  Tonight went ok, Isabel was not asleep, and both girls have come out of the room at separate times after Mae's 'quiet time'.  I'm not too surprised, a little mix up always causes some excitement, even at bedtime.

Compare and Contrast

Some things have changed since I was a kid.  Others haven't, at least not by much.  I heard Isabel singing this little song today.  For other than obvious reasons, it made me stop and really listen.

Beans, beans. They're good for your heart.

The more you eat, the more you fart.

The more you fart, the more you laugh.

The more you laugh, the better you feel.

Let's have beans for every meal!

When I was a kid it went a bit differently.  But given the subject matter, well, um, I'm spare the differences.  I'll just say that when I was a kid it was a wee less crass.  I'm not sure how or why my sweet baby girl is singing about such things.  Oh well, I'm sure she'll grow out of it soon (I don't hold such allusions for my son, however.  I know things haven't changed that much.

Snapshot Saturday

This is Mae and I a few months ago.  I took her to the theatre and she saw her first Broadway musical.  She loved it!  We got all dressed up, prettied our hair, had dinner with friends and enjoyed our evening together.

Dates

Today is one of those days that is just unusual, with it being 11-11-11 and all.  I don't' get caught up with numbers or dates.  However, it does get me to thinking of how many important dates in my life are shared with other memorable or celebrated dates.

Here's my list:

January 8th - Ryan and I had our first date.  It is also the birthday of my friend who was my maid of honor.

May 18th - Mae was born.  also the anniversary of when Mount St. Helen's blew (she was born on the      21st anniversary)

July 13th - our wedding anniversary.  Also the birthday of our friend who was Ryan's best man.

July 16th - Isabel was born.  BUT if she had been born just about two hours earlier then she'd share a birthday with her late great-grandmother.

November 5th - the dated that Ryan and I were officially engaged.  Also my sister in law's birthday.

December 23rd - Caleb was born.  He shares his birthday with his Papou (Greek for Grandpa) who celebrated his 50th that year.  Also the date of when my grandmother passed away (12      
                              years prior).

My New Favorite.....

recipe!  Or maybe I should rephrase that to say our new favorite recipe, seeing how much Ryan like loved it.  A friend of mine so graciously passed on the recipe and I made this past Sunday.  It was ah-mazingly fab-u-lous!  If you love Mexican, spicy flavors then you will love this.


~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ 

Posole

serves 8, prep 10 min, cook 2 hours (or longer in crock pot), adapted from Recipezaar, (and the recipe is also found here, on this web site)

• 2 tbsp butter or bacon fat 
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 jalapenos, seeded and diced
• 2 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp oregano
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 3 cups cooked pork, like carnitas
• 1 cup roasted green chilies (canned or fresh), diced
• 2 (15 oz) cans white hominy, drained and rinsed
• 1-2 qts chicken or pork stock to cover

1. Melt butter or fat over medium heat and add onion, garlic, jalapeno, and spices.
2. Saute until veggies are soft.
3. Add pork, green chilies, and hominy.
4. Add stock to cover and simmer soup for about 2 hours or until flavors are well combined.
5. Serve with desired garnishes.

I actually made this in the crockpot by sauteing the veggies then adding everything to the crock pot and cooking on low until we were all home and ready to eat (about 7 hours).  The pork is already cooked and tender so you can cook this as long or as little as you want.  If you want to defat the soup, chill it over night in the fridge then remove the solidified fat from the top and reheat.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Mexican food is Ryan's comfort food.  Whenever he returns from a lengthy trip and is worn out from his travels, his go-to food is anything Mexican and searches it out when he hits the ground.  This is a dish that he may be requesting next time he's away.

I mentioned it being spicy, but don't be alarmed.  I'm not a fan of spicy-hot dishes, and neither are my kids for that matter.  However, the kids and I loved this soup.  Yes, it has some spicy, but it's not overdone or overpowering.  It's just, well, perfect.  And delicious.  And......well, you just gotta try it!

**I was able to purchase my carnets meat at Costco, already marinated and set to go!  I threw it in the freezer until I was ready to make the dish.  Then I put it in the crock pot all day (to thaw and cook), and cut it up and added it to the soup when it was time.  Perfection I tell ya!

The Only Thing Missing - His Cape

After telling the kids to get ready for bed tonight, I could hear Caleb playing around instead of donning his pj's.  I heard things like "arhhhhh, I'm Captain Underpants!".  Then there was a noise that made me think he had playfully run into his closet door.  All I could imagine was Caleb wearing his tighty whities while pretending to be Captain Underpants.

I had to go check.  I mean seriously, I can't leave thoughts like that unattended, right?

Sure enough, he was playing around in his skivvies.  And quite embarrassed that I opened his door.

Sorry Bud, but I had to know!!!!

It's Cool!

I had a video that I wanted to share today, but it's not working (blast you Youtube!).  Maybe I'll get it to work another day (because it's totally worth it!).  However, as I was trying to get the other video to work, I found this one.  It made me laugh, maybe because I remember the commercial.

Enjoy a blast from the past.

Ikea Love

I love having an Ikea relatively close.  But maybe it's not wise to go as often as I have in the past few months.  Since August, I think I've been three or four times.  It's not entirely my fault, I do have a friend (or partner in crime) that goes with me and she has requested that we return for certain items.  And I've done the same thing.  Like the other day when I realized that I should get those Christmas stockings that I'd seen a few weeks ago, and I had to go soon before they were gone!

While my friend and I were there the other day, I found something quite useful (Ikea is so stinkin' practical!).  It was a hand crank flashlight.  Good for emergencies.  And doubly good since the batteries will never run out or need to be replaced because it doesn't have any!  And triply good 'cause it comes in red.  Another plus?  It was only five bucks!

This little handy flashlight will be quite useful if/when there is ever a blackout or power outage.  And we can take it camping too.  The kids love it, of course.  But I only bought one,  maybe I need to pick up another one.  Or two.  But......that would mean another trip to Ikea.  Darn! *wink wink*

Murphy's Law Of Family Pictures

Yesterday we had our family pictures taken.  Of course it wasn't a simple journey to that magical appointment, it never is when more than one person is involved (or three 'smaller' ones, that is).  Here are a few, um, less than fantastic things that happened while getting ready.....

~  I didn't have a new favorite shirt I wanted to wear (what a bummer!)
~  so Ryan chose his new favorite shirt and I built our color scheme around it (not necessarily a bad thing)
~  the kids had nothing to contribute, which means buying new shirts for all three of them.
~  I took three kids shopping.
~  three stores and two agonizing afternoons later.....I realized I didn't have to bring them. Duh!
~  found two shirts that would work for the girls, but Mae wanted one and Isabel the other. (and I want        them matching!)
~  finally got all the kids set, then I decide I don't like the shirt I picked out for myself.
~  I have to go shopping for a color-specific shirt.
~  4 stores and 2 outings later I found it (and it was on sale!)
~  got Mae some hair clips to wear in the photo shoot.  but they matched my first shirt and not the new one. ~  she couldn't wear it.
~  Caleb got a hair cut three weeks before the shoot.  could have used a touch-up before the pics (scraggly guy)
~  Isabel needed a hair cut.  got one a week prior.
~  Caleb only has black jeans, we are all wearing blue.
~  kids want to go outside the afternoon of the shoot.
~  Isabel played in the dirt.
~  with her picture jeans and shoes on and we have less than 2 hours before camera time!
~  Mom is getting frantic and crazy.
~  who wants to smile and be around  crazed mama after all that??!

Turns out that everything went fine.  I was able to clean up Isabel's jeans and shoes and have them dry before leaving for picture time.  I also had time to decide to not be crazed and frantic.  And I'm pretty optimistic about how the pictures will turn out.  The kids aren't so bad, they clean up pretty good.  And their smiles aren't so bad either.

How Cats Are Not Like Lizards

This is Edward, our cat.  He's had a rough afternoon.  Right now he's holed up in the garage trying rest and recoup from loosing the tip of his tail.  *shudder*

This poor kitty is an outdoor cat, but loves to come inside (or try) several times a day.  Since we love our kitty (who eats spiders in the house for me and brings us occasional tokens of affection), we let him from time to time.  But when we do let Edward in, we always close up the bedroom doors to restrict him from most areas of the house.  Today, Isabel was trying to close up the doors really fast so Edwards wouldn't slip into one of the rooms and, well, maybe she acted a little too quickly.  All I knew was that I heard Edwards loud protests, watched him dart quickly out of the hallway, and then I saw the leftover bits of fur stuck in the closed door.

I will spare the other details.  But, I'll say is that it's apparent that Edward no longer has the cute little white tip on the end of his dark brown tail.  Right now he is safely curled up in the garage with his tail protectively wrapped around himself as he snoozes the day away.  He can't be suffering too much if he's letting us give him scratchy loves under his chin, just as he likes, and is purring.  But I wonder if he's maybe not quite as anxious to come back inside.

Isabel feels terrible.  And when I say terrible, I mean TERR-I-BLE.  She also wants his tail to grow back. But we know it won't.  Why?  Because cats are not like the lizards that Edward rids our yard of.  Unfortunately.

Photo Friday

I am waaaaay behind in posting and sharing pictures.  I have a slew of pictures that I meant to share about some of the things we did over the summer.  So I'm totally taking advantage of NaBloPoMo and I fully intend to get caught up.  Or at least get closer to current events.

This is a picture (albeit a poor quality one) of Isabel on her birthday back in July.  She opened a card from her great grandma and found her present inside, a twenty dollar bill.  Isabel is not filled with glee over her monetary gift, rather, she's laughing at the fact that there is an old man pictured on it!

I love my six year old girl, she's a hoot!

My New Favorite.....

....Snack!

I've mentioned before how a friend of mine makes ah-mazing popcorn. Well, she told me how to make it, and now my family and I eat it. A lot.

I know, I know, there is such thing as microwave popcorn. But this stuff is better than any popcorn I've ever had. Period.

Want to know how to make it too??!? It's super-easy.

Grab a stock pot and pour just enough olive oil to cover the bottom of the pot. Toss in three popcorn kernels and turn the stovetop on high. After the three kernels pop then you know that the oil is hot enough to pop popcorn. Add enough kernels to cover the bottom of the pot, then put the lid on the pot. As the kernels pop, I shake the pot from side to side a little, just to keep it from burning, but it's not necessary. When the popping kernels slow or when you no longer hear them popping then it's done! I sprinkle salt on and mix it up real good, then and serve.

Wah-lah, homemade popcorn! And it's healtier than most microwave popcorn. Can't beat that!

**and I still contend that popcorn is a vegetable! *wink wink*

Don't Forget To Floss

Today is my birthday.  And so far this week I have been blessed by my family and friends showering me with cards, emails, tokens of love, and lunches.  Then there was the one little email I received that got the biggest emotional rise out of me.

From my dentist.

*ugh*  Nothing says happy birthday like a reminder of 'the chair of doom'.

If they really wanted to bless my day, why couldn't they push my next appointment back a few months?  Or tell me that my six month check-up has been cancelled and they'll just see me in a year?

Nope.  They wished me 'happy birthday' and 'look forward to seeing me soon'.

I wish there was a way to make certain emails explode.

Here We Go Again

It's that time of year again.  Yep, that's right, I'm getting my typing fingers warmed up and I'm on the lookout for blog material because.......... it's NaBloPoMo!!!!



I'm going to try this posting-everyday-thing again. Day one down, 29 more to go!

In years past I think I've pretty good, but it always gets difficult toward the end of the month.  So please feel free to give any suggestions for content. Consider the comment section as your own personal suggestion box. :)

See you tomorrow!

* * News Flash * *

Attention all Homemakers, Cooks, and Personal Chefs ! ! ! !

When using the crock pot for a meal, always always ALWAYS, remember to check to see if it's plugged in.  Turning it on is not enough.  The crock pot MUST be plugged in order for it to work.  Even if you've used it successfully two times before in your current week, you have to make sure it's connected to a power source.  You just have to.  Unless it's your way of trying to finagle a night of eating out.  But then why go to all the trouble of assembling a meal for the crock pot?  Also, it would be a waste of fresh baked cornbread that you made to go with the white chili that didn't cook in the crock pot.  And you really don't want to waste a good batch of hot-from-the-oven cornbread.  So save yourself the time and potentially wasted effort and just make sure the silly thing is plugged in.  Then, just for good measure, make sure it IS turned to the 'on' position.  After all your checks, re-checks, and double checks, THEN you can walk away knowing that dinner will be ready when the cornbread timer goes off.

This has been a friendly reminder from a fellow crock pot user.

What I Did This Weekend

Remember that pallet project I said I was going to do?  Um, well, it didn't happen.  I had seen the picture of the pallet coffee table and remembered that we had a pallet at the side of the house, left over from the delivery of our now-in-use shower doors.  But what I failed to remember was the actual size of the pallet.  I looked at it the other day after seeing the coffee table idea and it was clear that I could not use it in it's current length.  Which is at least 6 feet.  Which is too long for a coffee table.  So, I will have my handy husband look at it and see if it's worth cutting down to an appropriate coffee table length.  I was bummed, I was looking forward to this project!

Instead of working on the coffee table, the kids and I worked on t-shirts.  I had seen this idea earlier in the week and thought the kids would have fun with it.  All it took was a solid color t-shirt, a bleach pen (normally used for laundry purposes) and some imagination.  Each kid drew out their ideas on paper first,  then I helped put it on the shirt.  Wa-lah, customized shirts!  The kids had fun and all love their creations.

So this was our weekend project.  No coffee table, but happy kids.  I'll take it.

I got the shirts at Michael's (reasonably priced for our project).  Mae really wanted the turquoise shirt but it was out of stock in the child sizes, so we an adult small instead.  After the shirt was finished (after bleaching then washing/drying), I cut off the excess from the bottom and sleeves so it would not be too big for her.  From the leftover material from the bottom I was able to use it to make a headband for Mae.  She LOVES it!  Great solution, I thought!

Weekend Project

I think I just found what I'll be working on this weekend.

We have a pallet at the side of the house that isn't doing anything.  All I need is a sander, which we have, paint, and some castors.  Then I'll have a nifty new coffee table!

As for color, I'm thinking a lovely shade of graphite gray.

Power, I Love Thee

Dear Electricity,

I love you.  Really.  Like, I really, really, really, really love you.  I know I don't say it as often as I should.  And I know that I go for days and weeks of taking you for granted.  But not today.  Today, I am so very thankful for you and all the many things you give me.  Things like, but not limited to; lights, air conditioning, fans, cooling of the fridge and freezer, phone chargers, electric ignition gas stove, the washing machine and dryer, and my coffee grinder.

However, in the light of recent events (no pun intended), I am also thankful for batteries and a stockpile of scented candles.  I also really like the bar-be-que grill and powder drink mixes that keep me from having to open the fridge and release cool air and therefor saving my milk from spoiling.

If I ever fantasized about what it would be like to be a frontier woman......well, maybe I should just go camping more often.  For now I will remain thankful for lights that come on when I desire them to, and for ceiling fans.

Thank you again, dear Electricity, for returning to our home.  We missed you.

Your faithful user,
Deanne

Making His Father's Heart Swell With Pride

My kids have shown quite an interest in cars lately.  And when I say 'kids' I mostly mean Caleb.  And when I say 'interest in cars' I mostly mean they are pointing out the make and model, and they quiz each other on passing cars.  I hear things like, 'what's that Caleb?', 'which one is that?!', 'look, there's a Mustang!'. 

Caleb is getting pretty good at knowing brands.  The other day he saw a Dodge Charger in the parking lot and not knowing it was a Charger, he said 'sweet Dodge!'.

Ryan has encouraged Caleb's growing interest in cars.  Recently he and Caleb were having a conversation about Mustangs.  It came up that a Mustang is a muscle car.  Well, of course Caleb wanted to know what that meant.  Ryan informed him that a muscle car is a short back, long front, big engine, American-made car.  Caleb just listens and soaks it all in.  And I know that this stuff is sticking!  How do I know?  Well.......the other day Caleb was with his friend Nathan and I overheard bits of their conversation.  It went like this

Caleb - Blah blah blah blah blah Mustang.  Blah blah muscle car.

Nathan - What's a muscle car?

Caleb - It's a short back, long front blah blah blah blah blah......

See?!  He is listening and taking it all in.  Now, if only his teacher can relate her lessons around car facts then I think Caleb will really excel in his education.

Above And Beyond

Kids are known to get out bed at nighttime for various reasons.  Such as, a drink of water, to go potty, or they are just plain 'ol not sleepy.  But Mae is not like most kids.  She likes to take things to a whole other level.  Mae comes out for thinking too much.  Her mind gets whirring at night when she lays down, and she'll come out to ask questions or to voice a concern.  All of which border on the ridiculous and are not really important, especially when the light of day hits.

The other night was no exception.  True to Mae-form, she came to the family room where Ryan and I were detoxing from the day, only this time she caught me off guard with her question/concern.  This is what she said

I think my tongue is too big for my mouth.

Are you kidding me??!?!  I tried (without success) to not laugh.  Apparently she had bitten the side of her tongue and it was bothering her.  It amazes me how her mind works, and comes to conclusions that, again, border on the ridiculous.

Is there a contest for the most ludicrous nighttime excuse?  If so, I think I can win it.

Weekend (cleaning) Warrior

I cleaned out both vehicles this weekend.  On Saturday I tackled the truck.  All the nooks and crannies were overflowing with food bits and candy wrappers, with a fair amount of sand sprinkled in for a perfect balance of NASTY.  Needless to say, it was time to clean it out.  Four hours and too much quality time with the shop vac, a scrubbing rag, and windex later.....I now have a splendidly clean vehicle in which to drive my brood around in.

While I was cleaning the truck I had these two thoughts:

1) I'm pretty certain that we could feed a small African village with the crumbs.

2) do I have to let the kids inside when I'm finished?

Sunday found me doing the same for the car, Ryan's vehicle.  The kids aren't in the car as much as the truck, but they still have left their presence known.  Although it wasn't as bad off as the truck, it was in desperate need of some one on one time with the shop vac.

I also had two thoughts while cleaning out Ryan's car:

1)  again, the feeding of the village in Africa.

2)  do I have to let Ryan back in the car when I'm finished?

Now that I'm done with both vehicles, I have a strong sense of accomplishment.  There's nothing like looking over the finished product of hours of scrubbing and cleaning and knowing that it sparkles because of the elbow grease you applied.  Speaking of elbows........have you ever heard of shop vac elbow?  I think I have it.

Neighbors

When we moved into our house, my kids were the only ones on the street.  Now, after a couple new neighbors have moved in, my kids have playmates and potential friends.  It's awesome! 

Mae has a friend that lives next door, a girl her age.  And Caleb has three boys across the street near his age/grade as well.  I'll pray that a little girl Isabel's age will move nearby soon.  So far she's content to follow along with Mae and her friend or the boys.

Having neighbor friends for my kids makes me think of my own childhood friends.  I had great neighbor friends and I hope that my kids have the same kind of experience as I did........playing all day and into dusk, making up games and experiencing made-up places, and coming home only after being called in by mom.

The other bonus is, when the doorbell rings I no longer wonder who's trying to sell me something. 

Irony

Yes, I find it ironic that my son received a good character award at school.  Not because he isn't a good boy.  He is.  It's just funny that the day before the big assembly, he was at the park with his class and decided to be funny and pee all over the bathroom floor!

Not his typical behavior.  Good thing the award isn't based on a momentary lapse of judgement.

It's Going To Be A Loooooong Summer

Today was day one of summer vacation for the kids.  It went ok.  Nothing super exciting, but not entirely boring either.  At least I didn't think so.

We went to Isabel's school for her last conference.
Then to a friend's house to drop something off.
Can't forget a weekly Target run!
And back home for an afternoon swim.

After Caleb and Isabel played together in the pool, they played in Caleb's room.  They did well together so I was surprised when Caleb later said to me "I want a new roommate.  A boy this time, so I can have someone to play with not be bored".

Hmmm.  This is weird.  Especially considering that Caleb shares a room with no one.  However, to his request I say this - too bad buddy, the baby making shop is closed for business.  Learn to play well with your sisters!

I think it's going to be a long summer vacation this year if he keeps this up.

Stuck A Feather In Her Hair And Called It Macaroni

As a birthday gift for one of Mae's friends, I took the girls to get a feather put in their hair.  Isabel wanted one as well, so I obliged her.  Afterwards, as Mae and her friend were pleased with their new accessory, Isabel was ecstatic!  She wouldn't (couldn't!) stop talking about it.

Doesn't my feather look pretty?
Can you see my feather?
How 'bout now?
I love my new feather!
Thank you Mommy for my feather!
I have to be careful with my feather.

That is just a sampling of what she said.  A small sample.  For she became obsessed and wouldn't stop talking about it.  If you want a real idea of what it was like to hear her, this is what it sounded like for the rest of the day

Lalalalala feather!  Feather lalalalalalala. Lalala feather feather lalala feather.  Feather feather lalala feather! Lala feather lalalala feather lala feather feather lalalala.  Lalalalala feather.  Feather lalalalalalala. Lalala feather feather lalala feather!  Feather feather lalala feather. Lala feather lalalala feather lala feather feather lalalala. Lalalalala feather!  Feather lalalalalalala. Lalala feather feather lalala feather.  Feather feather lalala feather. Lala feather lalalala feather lala feather feather lalalala!

I love my little girl.  Even when she's hyper-obessed with a silly feather.  But if I hear that word one more time I may have to be admitted to the loony bin!

Too Much Of A Good Thing

Isabel talks a lot.  I mean A LOT!  She's always asking questions and wanting to know things.  Although it is great that she is so inquisitive and feels free to talk to us, sometimes it can get to be too much.

I was in the truck today and realized I had another headache.  It made me wonder if it was the radio that I always have on when I'm driving.  Also because it seems that I am only aware that I have a headache when I'm in the truck.  So I turned off the radio.

Then Isabel asks me the 143rd question of the day - "why do we have nose boogers?"

*sigh* I turned the radio back on.

Don't Quit Your Day Job

I love conversations with my kids.  I get an inside peek into what they're thinking.  But sometimes it makes me wonder who their parents really are.

Caleb - Did you know there are two kinds of plumbers?

Me - No, I didn't.  What are they?
(seriously, TWO kinds of plumbers??  This I must know.)

Caleb - Well, one kind I don't know how to explain, but one kind of plumber works on sinks and showers. The other one fights crime.

Remind me to do a background check before calling our next plumbing 'professional'.

Typical Boy

It seems that lately I get my giggles from overhearing conversations that my kids are having.  Here is what I heard this morning on the way to school.

Mae (to Caleb):  Why do you collect hair bands, that's gross!

Caleb: Because then I can slingshot them at girls. (insert giggles here)

Gotta love that boy.  He has always had a thing for the ladies.  But I hope it doesn't get him into trouble.  It might be too late for that though.

I Think I Need To Secure A Lawyer

The other day I was helping Isabel pronounce tsunami (remember when she called it a salami?)  Here's how it went....

Me:  Su-nah-me.

Isabel:  Sue-mommy.

I give up.  But I admit that I will miss these mispronunciations of hers.

It's All About Perspective

Caleb loves playing soccer.  I mean LOVES soccer!  He recently ended his latest season and we had a conversation about it and about some of the players on his team.  Caleb was telling me that a certain player was not very good, and he was right.  The little girl was not aggressive (at ALL!) and it was clear that she wasn't really interested in being there.  It just wasn't her thing.  I tried to explain to Caleb that not all people are good at soccer and that there may have been reasons why this girl was signed up to play.  Maybe her parents made her?  Or, maybe she wanted to try soccer and then realized she didn't like it?  Who knows, but my point was that she may not be good at soccer but I was certain she is good at something else, just we all are.

Caleb thought about that for a minute and came to this conclusion.  The girl is probably a good artist.  Ha!  I love my son!  He's got a great way of looking at things sometimes.

Mae Day

As of today I have been a mother for ten years.  Thanks to Mae!  Yep, today is her birthday.  Ten years, wow.  Sometimes it feels like it's flown.  Other times, I know I've lived through each and every day.  Oh the joy of being a mom. :)  The question is - will either of us survive the next ten years?

I wrote Mae's birth story a few years ago, thought I'd re-post it today.  Enjoy!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The day before Mae was born I stayed home from work. I had been having irregular brackston hicks for weeks (with no pain) but that morning, as I got ready for work, I thought maybe I was having some more and wondered if it was 'the day'. It was 3 days before my due date, so I was hopeful. Turns out it was nothing, but I did enjoy a nice day at home.

Early the next morning, say around 3:00, I was quickly awoken when my water broke. I was so excited! I woke Ryan up, then called the doctor (who told me to make my way to the hospital). We took our time getting ready as we had learned in our birthing class that most first-time labors went slow and there was reason to rush to the hospital. After I had eaten some breakfast and gotten dressed and ready to leave, I called my parents to let them know that 'today was a great day to have a baby!'

just before leaving for the hospital we took this picture

And we were off!!!!

We got to the hospital around 7:00 that morning. I could feel some contractions, but nothing with any pain, yet. I remember in my birthing class, seeing a chart with varying degrees of happy faces, ranging from very smiley to a a serious/unhappy face. I walked in the hospital with a full smiley face. I was happy and excited to finally to this show on the road!


In fact, I was quite excited about everything. The hospital we were at was like a nice hotel and there would be no room changing at all during the course of my stay. My room was a one-stop shop, the only time I would leave would be when I checked out with my baby in my arms. And it was a nice hotel hospital room too! The room had updated everything, from the carpet, furniture and colors to the jet tub in the bathroom. In fact, I was looking forward to using that jetted tub!

A couple hours after arriving, my contractions still weren't anything to complain about. I could feel the tightening but with minor discomfort. The nurse suggested I either talk a walk around the halls or take a bath to maybe speed things up. Hmmmm.....walking halls with socks and a hospital gown - or - check out the jetted tub???

I opted for the bath. Thank you very much.

It must have worked. As I was in the bath, my contractions went from minor discomfort to uncomfortable to GET ME OUT OF THE TUB!!!

I didn't really have a birth plan. I'm a 'go with the flow kind of gal', so I figured we'd make decisions as they came depending on the circumstances. I had thought of forgoing the epidural though. My sister in law had had two babies and all she had for meds was something to take the edge off. Sounded good to me. So, there I was (out of the bath by this point) sitting in a rocker talking to the nurse about meds. I told her I'd like to take the edge off. She was fine with that, but did mention something about it wearing off by the time I need to start pushing.

Um, WHAT?! No. There will be no wearing off of drugs! Please give me an epidural. Thank you!

So, around 10 o'clock is when my happy face went from 'smiley face' to 'hurts a whole lot'. But by 10:30 I got my epidural (or 'hapidural' as a good friend called it) and I was back to my super happy face, albeit a bit scared and tired.

Seems things progressed quite well after that. Not that I felt anything. Mostly I rested and waited for my doctor to check me, then tell me any news of my progression. Shortly before 1:00, they started prepping me for birth. They reconfigured the bed and I got into postion. And I said an absolute NO to the mirror. Ewe.

Around 1:00 I was pushing. I pushed for about 15 minutes and she was out! There she was, all red and squirmy and crying. Our Mae Elisabeth.

And our lives were changed in an instant. At exactly 1:16 on the afternoon of May 18, 2001.

Super-Duper-Crazy-Busy-Full Day

I had a busy-crazy day. I'm overwhelmed just recalling all that has been done and experienced today.  Nothing out of the ordinary, just jam-packed with everyday mom stuff.


It all started after breakfast, I followed Ryan to a bike shop to get his bike that had been worked on. He then left for work and I went to Costco on my way home. As I was finishing at Costco, my hairdresser called to ask if I had forgotten my hair appointment.  Crap, I did forget!!!  Good thing I was in her side of town and was able to run over to get my hair cut!  Then I hit a chocolate store on my way home (I received a call this morning that my name had been drawn for some free chocolate melts!). I picked up my free goods and went home.  Isabel and I barely had time to fix lunch and take a few breathes before picking up Mae and Caleb from school. Then Mae asked if she could stay late to help with a video she was working on (I said yes).  Which meant I had to stick around school for an extra hour. We made it home shortly before 4:00. And Isabel and I hadn't had time to do any school, so we worked on that. Then I threw in some dino chicken nuggets for dinner and slapped some honey dew on the table and we ate. 


I think I'm sitting at the computer, resting, now (and blogging). I'm pretty sure that's what I'm doing. That, and counting the time left to bedtime. One hour.  I think I'll sleep well tonight.  Whew, what a day!


**please note that I really really wanted to type this post without any spaces between words.  Looking back over my day, that is how I feel.  No wonder I have a headache!


***the good thing in all this (so far) is that I have not been ugly with the kids!  Truly the Lord is with me, for there is no other explanation for such good motherly behavior.  

NYC

Ryan and I took advantage of several things last month.

1).  Flyer miles
2).  Hotel points
3).  Spring Break
4).  My parents compassion, generosity, time and love of their grandchildren (and for us)

Put all those things together and we got a trip to New York city!!!

Yep, Ryan and I dropped the kids off with Mom and Dad and headed off to NYC for a week.  Alone.  It was bliss.  All of it!

Neither one of us have been to New York, and it was great to explore the city together for the first time.  I must say that I was pleasantly surprised with the city.  We both were.  New York was a great vacation for us, and we look forward to going back someday.

While we were there, I downloaded a new app for my iphone.  Hipstamatic!  It takes vintagey pics, and I basically took lots of pictures using only the Hipstamatic app.  Here are a few that chronicle our trip.

Ryan took a picture of me after we went through the Guggenheim museum. (the only picture of myself taken with my iphone.  Ryan has a few on his fancy schmancy camera).

I took this shot as we were walking from the Guggenhiem to yet another museum, across the street from Central Park.  I got all artsy fartsy with my new app, can you tell?

Central Park had these neat lampposts throughout, and I just loved them.  What can I say, this is me being all artsy again.

This shot was taken by Ryan.  His turn to be artsy fartsy with my app/camera.  On Ryan's list of places to go was the Apple Store.  On the way, this shot was taken as we walked by Central Park, where the horse carriages are.  It was a beautiful dreary morning and Ryan took advantage of the low clouds hugging the buildings.

We purchased City Passes that gave us admission to many museums and attractions in the city.  One of the things used the pass for was the Empire State Building.  We went to the 87th floor (typical observation deck).  It was neat to look out over the entire city and see several sights from one spot.  This shot was taken after our tour and when night was upon the city.

We also took a tour of the Hudson and East River.  The boat took us past the Statue of Liberty.  I think next time we go, I'd like to actually go to the statue instead of quickly floating by.  Next time I'll also know that I'll need to purchase tickets for the crown months in advance.

I love this shot of the city, taken while on our river tour.

Ryan.  On the subway.  We took the subway every. where.  It was great.  At first we thought we'd have to take taxi cabs when we wanted to go places.  Turns out that the subway is cheaper, easier and more fun to use.  We were careful not to take the subway during late-night hours, so we were pretty safe (contrary to how I felt about NYC subways before our trip).

One night we went to a broadway show, Jersey Boys.  We got all dressed up for our night out.  Consequently, this is the only picture of Ryan and I together in the city.  After dinner, we had time to kill before our show, so we walked over to Times Square.  Oh.  My.  Goodness!  The sidewalks were crammed with people!  And the big signs all lit up, too!  I'm not a huge crowd person, so walking a few blocks on the super-crowed streets was enough.  But I can say I've been to Times Square.  And have no desire to go back.  Been there, done that.

Like I said, we'd LOVE to go back to New York.  There is so much to do!  We missed out on Soho and Greenwich Village, to name a few.  Hopefully next time we'll hit those places.  I also wouldn't mind spending more time in Central Park.  Maybe rent a couple bikes and have a picnic lunch in the park.  All with my man.  Alone.  It will be bliss.

Until then, I'll treasure the 5 days I had, alone, with my husband as I dream of the next trip.

Is That Why We Don't Get Visitors?

Tonight we heard coyotes in the vicinity of our backyard.  They were cackling their strange song, so Ryan went outside to scare them off.  I stayed inside with the kids and watched from our dining room window.

Caleb was quite upset about his dad being out there with coyotes.  He didn't cry, but was close.  Isabel reassured him that Dad would be ok.  She said "Dad will be ok 'cuz he smells bad".

Apparently Ryan doesn't smell so appealing to wild coyotes.  It must be a scent undetectable to the human nose.  Or maybe we all smell bad and no one is telling us?

This Week In Quotes

Isabel has been saying some pretty cute stuff, as usual.  And I feel the need to share it/write it down so I don't forget these things (I'll need bribery material come her teen years, you know).

So, here's the latest from the mouth of my babe.......

"Japan had a salami" (tsunami)

After we found a caterpillar and put him in an old fish tank with lots of leaves and sticks, Isabel asks "when will he make his raccoon?"

"I hurt my funny bone and now there are sparkles in my arm."

"Dad is runned out of hair." (yes, his hair is not as prolific as it used to be)

Day 5

It's been five days since Mae has been her usual self.  Granted, today she really does feel and act better, despite the lingering hacking cough.  It's also been 5 days since either one of us has ventured out of the house (and going to/from school to get kids doesn't really count).  So today I am putting my foot down on this silly flu thing and Mae and I are going out!

Out of the house, I say!

I have a fabulous Jamba Juice coupon (that expires today) and I fully intend to use it!  How's that saying go....'starve a cold, feed a fever'?  Or is it 'feed a cold, starve a fever'?  Whatever, doesn't matter.  Jamba feeds the 'I've been confined inside for DAYS' part of the soul.  And so Mae and I are busting outta of this joint.  Watch out world, here we come.  No, really, watch out.  And to all those that are behind us in line, you should go ahead and get the immunity boost, just in case.

Sick Days

Today marks day 4 of Mae being sick with a off/on fever and cough.  She's logged a lot of couch and movie time.  A LOT.  Thanks to streaming Netflix, Mae has watched numerous movies.  As thankful as I am for Netflix and the ability to stream instant movies, I'm also ready for this to be over and for life to return to normal.

Here's the top ten things I've said countless times over the last 4 days.

1 - How are you feeling?
2 - Better?
3 - Let's take your temperature.
4 - Here, drink this.
5 - Are you drinking your water?
6 - Drink your water.
7 - Hungry?
8 - you need to eat something.
9  - What do you want to watch now?
10 - What movie is this? This is weird.

Simply The Best

My friend Amy makes the most amazing popcorn.  Like, EVER!!!!  She pops the kernels on the stove in her handy dandy stock pot along with a secret mixture of oil and salt (not that it's really a secret secret, it's just that I don't know).  When we get together for Friday afternoon play dates Amy inevitably brings her homemade popcorn.  And instead of watching my kids or talking with my friends, I usually end up scarfing up most of the popcorn.

It's sad really, my obsession with Amy's homemade popcorn.  I really should learn how to make it myself. Then I won't be so rude during play dates or neglect my children.  Maybe.

In the mean time I will console myself with the fact that popcorn is a vegetable.  It has to be!

He Still Loves His Mama

Today is St. Patricks Day.  A day that most people (or kids) wear green so as to avoid getting pinched.  I talked with the kids yesterday about what they would wear today so they'd be prepared (and cut down on any potential morning rush to get out the door and off to school).  Seems that everyone was ready and prepared for, save me.

On the way to school this morning we were talking about what each was wearing to guard against the dreaded pinch.  Me?  I just threw some clothes on in order to get out the door, which meant no green.  No one made a move to attack me, on the contrary, Caleb said "I will guard you".  Awwwe, my sweet boy still loves me!  My plans of finding something green for the day may be scraped just to see my son provide a defensive shield of protection for his mama.

I love that boy.

Saved By Text

I was saved from a life-long grief this morning.  All because of a good friend and her handy dandy texting abilities!

My morning was not typical as I got up to get ready for the day and take the kids to school.  I had to actually get up and be ready for the day before I leaving the house.  No staggering out of bed, throw on a sweater and grumble out a 'get ready, let's go!' as I make my way to the truck.  Nope.  Caleb had his yearly doctors check up at 9:00, and this meant that I had to be presentable for the world before leaving the house to take Mae to school.  However, I did have time to put the finishing touches on between the time of the school drop off and leaving for the doctors office.  

Just as I was unplugging the flatiron and heading to the coffee pot, I got a text from a friend.  She was asking if Caleb was ok and that they didn't want to leave without him.

What??!?

It's amazing how quickly the mind can process things.  In 2.7 seconds I realized that Caleb's class was going on a major field trip and they were leaving in 12 minutes!  Good thing Caleb was ready to leave (as was I!) and that it only takes 5.3 minutes to get to school from our house.

In conclusion, I made it to school just in time for Caleb to board the bus (and exchange a few smiles and thanks with my friend and Caleb's teacher).

Whew, saved by a text.  Saved from a life-long recollection of "the time Mom didn't let me go to Wally World!".  I may be stripped of my Stellar Mom award, but this is not that day!

Project Baby Blanket

Over Christmas I asked my sister-in-law if I could crochet a blanket for her coming baby.  After agreeing, she gave me her color choices - Classic Pooh, specifically Piglet colors (sage with some pink).  Fortunately Isabel had a swatch that I used to select the perfect yarn colors to match the specifications.  Then I had to think about the pattern.  You see, I've never followed a pattern when crocheting.

For this blanket I decided to do the whole thing in the sage color then edge it with the pink.  The kicker was that I wanted to add a few flowers to it.  This is when I thought I needed outside help.  Enter the magazine.  However, after playing with the yarn, I figured out how to make the flowers I wanted without the assistance of a pattern.  I got a great scarf pattern out of the magazine, so it wasn't a loss (more on that another time.  maybe.)

Anyway, here is the finished blanket.  I'm so very pleased with how it turned out.  I hope my niece likes it. Or more specifically, my sister-in-law!

I've Been Busy

There are some projects that have been in my queue lately.  There is a little baby niece on her way very, very soon, and I took an order for her baby blanket over Christmas. While I was working on her blanket I bought a crochet/knitting magazine (I needed some tips!) and came across a lovely scarf pattern that I had to try.  Then I found this idea the other week and now I am figuring out a way to put it into action! (thanks Susie for the tip/link!!!)

As of this very moment, the baby blanket is finished and so is the scarf.  And now I'm working on scarf number two and thinking about implementing the next project.

See?  I've been a busy girl!

Wanna peek at the blanket??  Come back tomorrow!

Sick? I Think Not

Caleb is home sick today.  We had to go in and wake him up this morning, which is unusual for this boy who is usually up with the sun!  I guess he was coughing a lot through the night last night and when we got him up he still had a cruddy cough.  Ryan asked him if he wanted to stay home from school.  Of course the boy said a pathetic little 'yes'.  And so Caleb is home from school today.

However, I am thinking he is just fine now that he's been up for a while.  He rarely coughs and is doing all kinds of house work for me so he can earn money for an ipod touch.  I mentioned to him that I doubt he's sick and that he seems just fine to me.  His response???  A few quick coughs.  Yeah, I think he's fine and will be going to school shortly.  The bum!

In the mean time, he's brought in the garbage cans that have been sitting out on the street since 'garbage day', taken out the trash in the house, and vacuumed the living and family room.  After that he's going to vacuum the couch for me, and sweep the family room and kitchen.  Maybe sick days aren't so bad.  Maybe we should have routine 'sick days'?!

I've Never.....

turned the car stereo up louder as to drown out the noise of children in the back.

And I'd certainly not share a conspirator smile with my husband while doing so.

Of course he'd not smile back either.

Never.