tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-67358033128486368342024-03-19T05:49:06.449-04:00Everything MomsSummerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17028753082967097277noreply@blogger.comBlogger669125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6735803312848636834.post-55997020223783071392012-07-27T08:11:00.004-04:002012-07-27T08:21:40.404-04:00Kids artwork<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS4J48AxwFW-OHzQYWcmYNJKErxRVoCPpQL4A9nGEEBa8ttzYgTJVqvQ-kU2CXZBQrnRLrgeFJTuQgHVPmwd8wBu8uTxc2eDaMiIyfuww-IzAoEBfq87e_gRvba0voxevRjcmtEGIK9Uk/s1600/006.JPG" style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS4J48AxwFW-OHzQYWcmYNJKErxRVoCPpQL4A9nGEEBa8ttzYgTJVqvQ-kU2CXZBQrnRLrgeFJTuQgHVPmwd8wBu8uTxc2eDaMiIyfuww-IzAoEBfq87e_gRvba0voxevRjcmtEGIK9Uk/s400/006.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5769822210008677490" /></a><br /><span style="font-family:Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">We have a new nest. Suddenly the things that fit "Oh, so perfect" in our last </span>home<span style="font-size: 100%;"> </span></span><span style="font-family:Georgia, serif;">doesn't<span style="font-size: 100%;"> quite fit. Then there are things that the previous owners left attached to the walls. </span></span>Mpppphfpfh<span style="font-family:Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">.</span></span><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-style: normal; "><br /></div><div><i><span style="font-family:Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">That was me biting my </span>tongue<span style="font-size: 100%;">. </span></span></i></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><i><br /></i></div><div><span style="font-family:Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">They left a plate holder that I actually like but I have no plates that would fit. As I </span>scour <span style="font-size: 100%;">antique malls and thrift stores for plates that catch my eye, the naked plate holder mocks me. </span></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><br /></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; ">The kids are in VBS right now and that means there is alot of artwork rolling through our home. Trying to keep the counters de-cluttered is a challenge. </div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><br /></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; ">This morning over coffee, I came up with this.</div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieby4ZSq0LfIsb4YIYboZGaTsH-7R7wiKjfE1NWU9UQSWWtNOByM_T_f5Tv_xGav-p_f_TvlPeBOX38fK1_MN9DSjO5oDxagGuNh63jn-f27JbmcWI-PyNtOM-A3tn0ctH00HG_TiebbM/s1600/005.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieby4ZSq0LfIsb4YIYboZGaTsH-7R7wiKjfE1NWU9UQSWWtNOByM_T_f5Tv_xGav-p_f_TvlPeBOX38fK1_MN9DSjO5oDxagGuNh63jn-f27JbmcWI-PyNtOM-A3tn0ctH00HG_TiebbM/s400/005.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5769822488285241122" /></a><br /></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span style="font-size: 100%; ">It holds their creations perfectly and it doesn't look cluttery (Yes, I know this is not a real word. ) like it would sticking off of my fridge. Woo hoo!!!</span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><br /></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; ">Now I am in no hurry to find that perfect plate!</div>Summerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17028753082967097277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6735803312848636834.post-14178428251698895222012-07-25T07:05:00.000-04:002012-07-25T08:03:15.183-04:00My Wrestling session with the Maker<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil9Hj6WxY0R-IHYvy8kU8XcD2pT7QNHmRO4Kl0kV7_tVEJZJSpjcNz0eX00tpZWXlLuR7La8b0k69PfOSGfYClh9jThfr76wegn9uob5PisXzkxo-cr6jj_90yjKFrAzMkgxjQ1OBp9iE/s1600/1107895-Clipart-Black-And-White-Stick-Drawing-Of-Wrestlers-Royalty-Free-Vector-Illustration.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 280px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil9Hj6WxY0R-IHYvy8kU8XcD2pT7QNHmRO4Kl0kV7_tVEJZJSpjcNz0eX00tpZWXlLuR7La8b0k69PfOSGfYClh9jThfr76wegn9uob5PisXzkxo-cr6jj_90yjKFrAzMkgxjQ1OBp9iE/s400/1107895-Clipart-Black-And-White-Stick-Drawing-Of-Wrestlers-Royalty-Free-Vector-Illustration.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5769076378770683026" /></a><br /><div><b><i>I found this post while I was doing some house cleaning of the blog. It was while we were trying to sell our house and I was seriously questioning our decision, our faith in the way the Lord was leading us and my ability to follow. Being on the other side of it....well, I can honestly say God was in every detail. Since we all wrestle with God in some point in my life, I thought I would honestly share a glimpse of my personal struggle. :) </i></b></div><div style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; "><br /></div>Hot tears stung my eyes. I was having a hard time staying composed.<br /><br />Just this very morning, I had been short on faith. Questioning God about his plan for us. Was I doing the right thing? Was I really following his own direction? If I was following his lead, why was it taking so long ? If I was praying for my paths to be made clear, why was I stumbling along a dark and bumpy path?<br /><br /><em style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; ">"Please Lord. Please...."</em><br /><br />It was all I could finish my prayer with. I was bleary with lack of sleep. (Thanks to my little who still wants a 3:00 am milk session with the mama.) I was tired. Emotionally and physically.<br /><br />We are mamas, however. No rest for the weary. There was breakfast to be made, littles to feed and a list running in my head that was longer than my mind could retain.<br /><br />I has a volunteer appreciation breakfast at my daughters preschool. I had to lay the girls clothes out and make sure they were fed. ((Dads are....er....um....super creative when left to pick out wardrobes.)) <div style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; "><br /></div><div style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; ">I finally managed to make it to the breakfast after fretting over what the kids would do while I was gone, thinking about my to do list and worry of the house buying.</div><div style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; "><br /></div><div style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; ">I arrived to find that my table was filled with ladies that I was familiar with and had several ladies that I have never met before. Sitting down, we made introductions and small chit chat.</div><div style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; "><br /></div><div style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; ">I will be honest. My heart was heavy as I wrestled with God in my mind.</div><div style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; "><br /></div><div style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; ">I started speaking to the older lady beside me and found out that she was a grandmother of a child who attended my daughters school. Upon further discussion I also discovered that this was not just a grandma but an extraordinary woman of God. I became engrossed as she described receiving a call from her Lord for her and her husband to get up and leave the only town they had ever know and start a christian school halfway across the country.</div><div style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; "><br /></div><div style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; ">I felt my eyes widen and exclaimed that it must have been so scary and hard. She nodded in agreement and said that she too wrestled with God.</div><div style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; "><br /></div><div style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; ">She gently laid her hand on mine and looked straight into my bloodshot eyes. </div><div style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; "><br /></div><div style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; ">"God is preparing the way for you. You just have to be patient. You never know what he is doing behind the scenes! He is working on your future neighbors hearts and making your nest so that you can rest easy in it." </div><div style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; "><br /></div><div style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; ">She squeezed my hand, smiled warmly and then sensing that I needed a moment, turned to the little performers on stage. </div><div style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; "><br /></div><div style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; ">I sat in my chair stunned, humbled but mostly in awe of my God. He sure didn't need to do a check in with me. He is the author of the universe. Who am I ? A whiny child. </div><div style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; "><br /></div><div style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; ">Yet my Holy God did check in. He used one of his own to speak a soothing word onto my wounded heart. I saw a glimpse, a flicker, of Gods Holiness. It overcame me.</div><div style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; "><br /></div><div style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; ">I walked away a changed woman from my wrestling match with the Maker. I felt unworthy but saturated in His honest love for me. </div><div style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; "><br /></div><div style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; ">Looking back, I have clarity. The house that we loved was sold before we sold ours. Now that we know more about that house, we know we wouldn't have been as happy as we are right now. God placed us exactly where we would be happiest. For our good and for his glory. </div><div style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; "><br /></div><div style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; ">My heart will praise him....</div><div style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; "><br /><br /></div>Summerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17028753082967097277noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6735803312848636834.post-887129622398969482012-06-24T15:08:00.000-04:002012-06-24T15:08:19.883-04:00The Eagle has landed.....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="background-color: white;">We have found a house!!!</span></div>
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I am excited and sad and totally freaked out. </div>
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We close and move this week. Of course God arranged it so we both sold and bought and the timing worked out perfectly. ((He's cool like that!))</div>
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Now its packing up my house, my life, in boxes with a teething baby on my hip. I am living in a sea of boxes and chaos. I am trying to keep doing fun things with the kids, not wanting them to sacrifice their summer just because we are moving. </div>
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I. AM. TIRED.</div>
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I am also excited for a thousand projects running through my head.</div>
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I thought getting back to writing would help me keep one thing consistent. </div>
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WOOHOO!! </div>
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<br /></div>Summerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17028753082967097277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6735803312848636834.post-38378696054958697152012-04-08T06:35:00.005-04:002012-04-08T07:14:20.104-04:00Where have you been?!?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhztGKU7oWkgfbAhDqpn5Sn8bLaVFeO3G359kunwKeTP-GSMgMpnQJOefNXtjQMM0V3hT5ZhvC-ZRMZarVqKIR4RsIRKMIBT-LwNbgU6yENINn-LpPeiPcj5D5U9l9NLyb2EpPQxqXb3do/s1600/house.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 214px; height: 235px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5728986314269791906" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhztGKU7oWkgfbAhDqpn5Sn8bLaVFeO3G359kunwKeTP-GSMgMpnQJOefNXtjQMM0V3hT5ZhvC-ZRMZarVqKIR4RsIRKMIBT-LwNbgU6yENINn-LpPeiPcj5D5U9l9NLyb2EpPQxqXb3do/s400/house.jpg" /></a><br />People have been asking me left and right why I haven't blogged lately. The answer is simple.<br /><br />I have been crazy. :)<br /><br />Not crazy, ha ha either....just plain crazy.<br /><br />I knew the Lord was making some changes this year. I could feel them. Being in a season of change and reproof is not fun in oh so many ways. It is necessary, however.<br /><br />After much prayer and seeking wise council, my hubbie and I have decided that we were being led to move.<br /><br />Where you ask?<br /><br />If you know .....well, let me know.<br /><br />That's the thing with our heavenly Father. He is a light onto your path. That means you can see the next step. Its lit so you know where to place your foot. Its not a flood light showing you the destination.<br /><br />I tried to kindly dispute the timing with God. Spring is my busy time. I have all 3 kids birthday which means, baking and parties and lots of running. I also have vacations, dance recitals, end of school functions, Easter basket making and about a hundred other things. So when the call to move came in Spring, my first response was "really?".<br /><br />Of course that same morning that I was feeling totally overwhelmed and lost, God reminded me why I serve him. I had my morning prayer time in which I cried out to God. (I take long showers....its the only place I am ever alone, :) )<br /><br />I will be honest, I was super whiny.<br /><br />"I don't know where you want us! I am fearful of getting a house ready to show with three small children!! I need to plan but have no direction in which to go! I don't feel led in any one direction and we are not finding any houses that we like. Will our house even sell?"<br /><br /> I then sat down with a book that I have been trying to get through. (And by sit down , I mean having it open while I feed the baby oatmeal.)<br /><br />It directed the reader to read Psalm 107. This is what jumped out at me from the pages.<br /><br />" He led them by a straight way<br /> to a city where they could settle." Psalm 107:7<br /><br />WOW.<br /><br />I was humbled into silence. Anyone that knows me, knows that I am rarely silent.<br /><br />I heard clearly a loving Father gently remind me that he has this. I can stop fretting and worrying. He has told us to move and he will move us.<br /><br />In his time.<br /><br />Where and when he wants us to be.<br /><br />To serve him and for our good.<br /><br />I was lovingly schooled that I needed to chill.<br /><br />I want to say that everyday I simply turned to him and had comfort. I did not. I have had the crazy laugh on many a day. I have snapped at my kids because I cannot get 5 minutes to pack any boxes. I have failed over and over and over.<br /><br />He has forgiven me just as many times.<br /><br />I am grateful for fresh morning with new chances.<br /><br />So, friends that is where I am currently. A weird new place for me. A place that I have not been before. I can feel my priorities shifting and I am trying to learn to totally let go and just obey.<br /><br />Its a struggle. Its exciting and terrifying.Summerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17028753082967097277noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6735803312848636834.post-90896287591300241292012-01-16T14:48:00.003-05:002012-01-16T15:03:30.295-05:00Menu Plan Monday: We are eating out of the freezer again?!? For real ?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC6SS7KVml_ReZS_NjF9_I6po9RWjr_wFTxkuBBp8rq_LzpJtxi34nOrXUz_6N0JTfYc548mnhWVsdmcpcv5ZVJ8muXxiBVwBZP4nt0-Yhe1291oq4ZkJHiFrNYg3s9LTmm6Vaw8nE3jo/s1600/mpmpencil.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 304px; height: 154px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5698319422958585282" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC6SS7KVml_ReZS_NjF9_I6po9RWjr_wFTxkuBBp8rq_LzpJtxi34nOrXUz_6N0JTfYc548mnhWVsdmcpcv5ZVJ8muXxiBVwBZP4nt0-Yhe1291oq4ZkJHiFrNYg3s9LTmm6Vaw8nE3jo/s400/mpmpencil.jpg" /></a><div><strong><em>My people are starting to raise their eyebrows at some of the stuff I am pulling out for dinner. I however, am giddy at seeing the bottom of the chest freezer. Its also making me get really creative when it comes to dinner. When I found 3 bags of cranberries, shredded zucchini and pie crusts in my freezer, I found 2 great recipes! I have included links at the bottom. Happy Eating y'all !!!</em></strong></div><div><br /> </div><div><strong>Monday:</strong> Chicken tenders, mac and cheese and peas</div><div><br /> </div><div><strong>Tuesday</strong>: Lemon crispy chicken, frozen veggies, </div><div><br /> </div><div><strong>Wednesday:</strong> Leftover buffet...if its not movin</div><div> <br /></div><div><strong>Thursday:</strong> Breakfast for dinner, waffles, pancakes, sausage</div><div><br /></div><div><strong>Friday</strong>: Frozen pizza, bread sticks, mozz sticks and salad</div><div><br /></div><div><strong>Saturday:</strong> meatball subs, baked fries, broccoli </div><div><br /></div><div><strong>Sunday:</strong> chicken pot pie, spinach salad</div><div> <br /><br /></div><div>Click <a href="http://allrecipes.com/recipe/mock-cherry-pie-2/detail.aspx">here</a> for Mock cherry pie....click <a href="http://allrecipes.com/recipe/cranberry-zucchini-bread/detail.aspx">here</a> for cranberry zucchini bread!</div><div> <br /><br /></div><div>For more great menu plans visit <a href="http://orgjunkie.com/2012/01/menu-plan-monday-jan-1612.html">I'm an Organizing junkie</a>.</div>Summerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17028753082967097277noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6735803312848636834.post-24147357663578466762012-01-10T06:50:00.000-05:002012-01-10T07:35:18.739-05:00My hope for a New Year.....<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXRuJJ9MUWD5SKkHaj2uJ7x33mX3Jwpa-QxObGH2dtRnijjO93EXipwz-f7szeBbTPh2COTJRtkuA4osh-yLOubBi96pMh_bEC-1HfJHErfuS3-5pvPu2ncKfSorwaU5yVV9C6FOjobag/s1600/pray.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 275px; height: 183px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695980662964571570" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXRuJJ9MUWD5SKkHaj2uJ7x33mX3Jwpa-QxObGH2dtRnijjO93EXipwz-f7szeBbTPh2COTJRtkuA4osh-yLOubBi96pMh_bEC-1HfJHErfuS3-5pvPu2ncKfSorwaU5yVV9C6FOjobag/s400/pray.jpg" /></a><br /><div><div><div><div>I feel like 2011 has kicked my Boo-tay.<br /><br />I have had too many extended family dramas to count. Setting boundaries with people that you are tied to by blood is an exhausting business.<br /><br />I also feel like I have let outside forces such as social media, pretty shiny things and comparing myself to others creep slowly into my life like a cancer.<br /><br />I am not saying that these things are bad in themselves. They are just that...things. Its when I measure myself against them that they start to turn ugly. I am not sure how it has happened and I am humbled because I can tell I am not where I once was.</div><div><br />I have lost my way with connecting daily with the Father. The excuses are many and I know that they make sense. Baby up all night, little people want to be fed (they are selfish like that :)) and e-mails to return. If I am totally honest with myself however, I can see that somehow I make time to check social Internet forums but somehow too busy to sit and read the Word of God.<br /><br />Conveniently letting them and the enemy of my soul steal my joy. </div><div><br /> </div><div>I am not one for New Years resolutions.. This year however, I am committed to making time to read my Bible and spend time talking with my loving always- present Father. I notice that when I start the day with prayer, my day is a whole lot smoother. Its not that things don't happen (Oh boy...do they ever!!) Its that I am given the strength to get through those things. It results in less patience losing and more compassion. I can give grace more freely to my littles as God has given it abundantly to me. </div><div><br /> </div><div>This is not a New Years resolution that I can afford to forget and lay at the wayside by February. </div><div><br />Have you ever felt a deep stirring in your soul? Like something was not quite right. You know something is happening and you just can't put your finger on it. In the movies, this would be when the music starts to swell and you feel the build up but you can't see what has happened yet.</div><div><br /><br />That is how I feel going in to this brand spanking new year. </div><div><br /></div><div>More than that I feel that I am being led down a road that is not lit. I can feel a change is a'comin. All I can see, however, is the next step. I wish I could know what God is calling me to do. I could prepare. (Or at least protest. :) )</div><div><br /></div><div> It could be that he is calling me to be still. To be more present and to wait upon him.</div><div><br /> </div><div> It could be a call to action. YIKES!</div><div><br /> </div><div>Its more like Gods New Year resolution working in me. I have to relinquish control and it scares the pee pee out of me.(( Hey- I'm just keeping it real!))</div><div><br /> </div><div> So there is the whole sorted jumble of feelings and emotions all written down.</div><div><br /> </div><div> I like that one day I can look back and say "See! This is when God started that awesome thing he did!!</div><div><br /><br /></div><div><strong><em>"Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know." - Jeremiah 33:3</em></strong><strong><em>"</em></strong></div></div></div></div>Summerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17028753082967097277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6735803312848636834.post-19334910025365278702012-01-09T10:55:00.002-05:002012-01-09T11:09:06.550-05:00Menu Plan Monday: More freezer cleanout !<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHP0qeTU7z1beAO6FLd0ey8LV-kcbYY1ZgyY83cyrHFDihyk24GvFI-H4FwhAbM149Pdc9BMPayHfRyMnBOqR2MopzM0f5A0kPHcV1ZAS69qJk-9ziWgtqDRbAqPGyPL12uC6PIYp2ECM/s1600/mpmpencil.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 304px; height: 154px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695661730338574578" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHP0qeTU7z1beAO6FLd0ey8LV-kcbYY1ZgyY83cyrHFDihyk24GvFI-H4FwhAbM149Pdc9BMPayHfRyMnBOqR2MopzM0f5A0kPHcV1ZAS69qJk-9ziWgtqDRbAqPGyPL12uC6PIYp2ECM/s400/mpmpencil.jpg" /></a><br /><div><em><strong>So in my quest to clean out the freezer this week, I am only trying one new recipe. I got a killer deal on a huge package of chicken wings and drummies. I am hoping that the kids will like the handheld food. :) I also have 2 nights where the kids have activities and I need something quick and easy so we can get out the door by 5:45. (Who plans things for 6?!?! ) I hope you guys have a yummy week!</strong></em></div><div><br /> </div><div><strong>Monday:</strong> Steaks, baked potatoes, broccoli, salad</div><div><br /> </div><div><strong>Tuesday:</strong> Leftover buffet- Big mama is not cooking!</div><div><br /></div><div><strong>Wednesday:</strong> <a href="http://busycooks.about.com/od/chickenrecipe1/r/stickydrumstick.htm">Sticky drumsticks</a>, brown rice, sauteed Asian veggies</div><div><br /> </div><div><strong>Thursday:</strong> Sausage skillet, crescent rolls</div><div><br /> </div><div><strong>Friday:</strong> Fish sticks and mac and cheese, green beans</div><div><br /></div><div><strong>Saturday:</strong> Pizza and salad</div><div><br /></div><div><strong>Sunday:</strong> Lemon baked chicken, rosemary potatoes, broccoli</div><div> </div><div><br /><br /> </div><div>For more great menu planning, visit <a href="http://orgjunkie.com/2012/01/menu-plan-monday-jan-912.html">I'm an Organizing Junkie</a>! </div>Summerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17028753082967097277noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6735803312848636834.post-84615420628581236142012-01-04T07:35:00.003-05:002012-01-04T07:42:42.861-05:00WFMW: Organization is the name of the game!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGP8XfSHjUflEA8RdgPW9uQSEiiTQhAW9Fb490by9_z5YTFuJWZI29vc95e367WEl_563nI9YDntjcjy1fQ2xUYCY9g2ydTi5Etw6hbu6sLa0Q-EqmKo0Un6_QCw00JdwCplqbIG9AgGc/s1600/wfmw-300x198.png"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 300px; height: 198px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5693756161226936114" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGP8XfSHjUflEA8RdgPW9uQSEiiTQhAW9Fb490by9_z5YTFuJWZI29vc95e367WEl_563nI9YDntjcjy1fQ2xUYCY9g2ydTi5Etw6hbu6sLa0Q-EqmKo0Un6_QCw00JdwCplqbIG9AgGc/s400/wfmw-300x198.png" /></a><br /><div><br />So.....this is an old post but this month is all about organization so here you go. Happy Cleaning !!!<br /><br /><div>I thought I would share how I got under my kitchen sink under control. I had everything....well but the sink under there ! :) (Some of the stuff, I wonder how in the world it got there!!! )</div><div> </div><div>I found this 3 pack of baskets at Walmart for $2. I then divided my hand soaps, sponges, dishwasher detergent, dish soaps, gloves and anything else I might need. (I may have a thing for hand soaps....don't judge me sister!)</div><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWSzPO9iPpFMkxZmRoEdjQ2CPAQwmruFy87cCEveVxuRpMHjxwXwAU3faCqTNL6-H-t2ECyCbybG_PdCpmgEeS2bBWD3Bry7MKlSHdP6JFuDJEdUzq5RwY4tI0S2thgGdNCTX3IL54Zxo/s1600/P1030767.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 400px; height: 300px; text-align: center; display: block;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5595520470690559218" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWSzPO9iPpFMkxZmRoEdjQ2CPAQwmruFy87cCEveVxuRpMHjxwXwAU3faCqTNL6-H-t2ECyCbybG_PdCpmgEeS2bBWD3Bry7MKlSHdP6JFuDJEdUzq5RwY4tI0S2thgGdNCTX3IL54Zxo/s400/P1030767.JPG" /></a> It works for me because it stays neat and I can pull the whole thing out if need be....and that works for this crazy mama!!<br /></div><div>For more great organization tips visit <a href="http://wearethatfamily.com/2012/01/wfmw-tips-for-an-organized-new-year/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+wearethatfamily%2FGaiB+%28We+are+THAT+Family%29">We are That Family</a>!</div></div>Summerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17028753082967097277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6735803312848636834.post-63108619235578499582012-01-02T08:27:00.004-05:002012-01-02T08:49:36.244-05:00Menu Plan Monday: The great freezer cleanout!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0uUg1NcJQG8AVxSo2e0YgIWNNp3qPPlX84XofmKUkV7tfBuHAABAlu7u8v8scD4LBXoIs1hkTPkb_4N-yQT-7W9C77DFwZ0MuRSTCf5o125jsuKJKDtrLtoQmUVeBbNRu0DBkcQtANhU/s1600/mpmpencil.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 304px; height: 154px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5693030323334167810" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0uUg1NcJQG8AVxSo2e0YgIWNNp3qPPlX84XofmKUkV7tfBuHAABAlu7u8v8scD4LBXoIs1hkTPkb_4N-yQT-7W9C77DFwZ0MuRSTCf5o125jsuKJKDtrLtoQmUVeBbNRu0DBkcQtANhU/s400/mpmpencil.jpg" /></a><br /><div><em><strong>So I REALLY need to get back to menu planning. The month of December is too easy to take it easy and eat out and ~gasp~ not use coupons. I am good and ready to get back to order. This month my hubbie wants to re-do our pantry. That means using what we have in there. Creativity is the word that comes to mind so you may see some interesting things. :) I am a woman that likes to live on the edge. I am also trying to make my own pasta sauce for the very first time with a ton of tomatoes that I received and chopped and froze. Wish me luck !! Happy Eating y'all !!</strong></em></div><div><em></em> <br /></div><div><strong>Monday: </strong>Beef enchiladas, Spanish rice, chips and salsa</div><div><strong></strong><br /> </div><div><strong>Tuesday:</strong> Grilled pork chops, broccoli, scalloped potatoes</div><div><strong></strong><br /> </div><div><strong>Wednesday:</strong> Leftover buffet- if its not movin, you can have it. But mama is not cookin!!</div><div><strong></strong><br /> </div><div><strong>Thursday:</strong> Pasta with<a href="http://www.yummly.com/recipe/Homemade-Tomato-Basil-Pasta-Sauce-AllRecipes"> homemade sauce </a>and cheese filled meatballs, Bosco sticks</div><div><strong></strong><br /> </div><div><strong>Friday: </strong>Fried fish, pierogis and green beans</div><div><strong></strong> <br /></div><div><strong>Saturday: </strong>Pizza and salad</div><div><strong></strong> <br /></div><div><strong>Sunday: </strong>Coney dogs with baked fries and mixed veggies</div><div> </div><div> <br /><br /></div><div>For more great menu plans, visit <a href="http://orgjunkie.com/">http://orgjunkie.com/</a>!</div><div> </div>Summerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17028753082967097277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6735803312848636834.post-81405753340331932642012-01-01T07:38:00.005-05:002012-01-01T07:50:57.269-05:00This is me.....waving hello !!!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcjEvN57OSRSsUyqLapNL2goolW1OO_8TdGsMxzd7d7GThqhcd0x_6O33xORrLjVhAofG_bRDYdk4jybcd2rZjhbSTl7lZhvKEpIFW3WZS1FEmYCmI5WGqqrrZ7dmebiUTqc1vyDvIYzA/s1600/animated-waving-hello_4.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 400px; height: 267px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5692644425112825954" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcjEvN57OSRSsUyqLapNL2goolW1OO_8TdGsMxzd7d7GThqhcd0x_6O33xORrLjVhAofG_bRDYdk4jybcd2rZjhbSTl7lZhvKEpIFW3WZS1FEmYCmI5WGqqrrZ7dmebiUTqc1vyDvIYzA/s400/animated-waving-hello_4.jpg" /></a><br /><div>So....... I have learned alot since adding to my brood. The most prevalent revelation is this.</div><div><br /> </div><div><strong><em>Three is definitely more than two.</em></strong></div><div><strong><em></em></strong><br /> </div><div>Thus, the break in blogging. </div><div><br /> </div><div>I have been trying to grasp my new new normal. And sleep. I think I remember what that is but i digress.</div><div><br /> </div><div>As life has gotten more into a routine, I have realized several things. (In which I will write more on this week. Well...... hopefully. :)) One of the things that really surprised me is that I miss writing. I miss its therapeutic benefits and I miss the moments of time that I carve out just for me. <em>~gasp~</em></div><div><em></em> <br /></div><div>So, this is me waving to my girlfriends. I am really excited about this new year and excited to see what the Lord has in store for our family and for me. </div><div> <br /></div><div>Happy New Year !!! </div><div><em></em> </div><div><em></em> </div>Summerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17028753082967097277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6735803312848636834.post-35227566827094482952011-09-20T07:03:00.003-04:002011-09-20T07:15:57.441-04:00And the winner is......<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbp9L0gKvLISZpiLVXitLm5rG8vrficesY7UwqHWgrpRkW5bJuIwxgWoK93DxeBh2VfKajQnQ1BIfW8fvvT66G9PUVJCSyJ6lXfCOLxYQ_2Sm61gWVql6EPQZ1Xw-acoM0TVqlOFX8-yM/s1600/drive.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 197px; height: 255px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbp9L0gKvLISZpiLVXitLm5rG8vrficesY7UwqHWgrpRkW5bJuIwxgWoK93DxeBh2VfKajQnQ1BIfW8fvvT66G9PUVJCSyJ6lXfCOLxYQ_2Sm61gWVql6EPQZ1Xw-acoM0TVqlOFX8-yM/s400/drive.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5654398092309551010" border="0" /></a><br />Sorry ladies, sickness landed right in the middle of our little home! I want to announce the winner of the BP gift basket and gift card!!! And the winner is .....<br /><br />ROBIN<br /><br />Congrats girl! Please send me an e-mail at everythingmom@live.com letting me know where I can send your card!!Summerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17028753082967097277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6735803312848636834.post-20306596544855707172011-09-12T09:46:00.004-04:002011-09-12T09:59:23.665-04:00Menu Plan Monday: Cool to Hot !<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR7RnEb5cIgoWNZTHZZ5U070t-KrM6k6AH29MBubUJjMLwFmHNXxsE57fs0Xmy0opp1RyEchKoXAS9qSBT7Yq9m29GlUocVK0ddpuD9glc1fNDBxJHHmZJ1DZpNEWCOcoyNfBpyB388E4/s1600/mpm-1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR7RnEb5cIgoWNZTHZZ5U070t-KrM6k6AH29MBubUJjMLwFmHNXxsE57fs0Xmy0opp1RyEchKoXAS9qSBT7Yq9m29GlUocVK0ddpuD9glc1fNDBxJHHmZJ1DZpNEWCOcoyNfBpyB388E4/s400/mpm-1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5651469708596685362" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Fall is here!!! Except its in the eighties. (Its Ohio, Ok?!?!) So the beginning of the week is summer cooking and as it cools down, the menu warms up! This week we are doing one night with all veggies. I remember my mama doing this and it was so refreshing! I also included a crock pot chili recipe which feeds a ton and freezes well. :) Hope you have a yummy week!!! </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Monday:</span> Corn on the cob, green beans w/ red potatoes, fresh tomatoes and salad<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tuesday:</span> Grilled lemon pepper chicken, grilled asparagus, butter noodles<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Wednesday:</span> Leftover buffet- If its in the fridge......<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Thursday:</span> Crock pot chili in bread bowls, tossed salad<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Friday:</span> Pizza Night!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Saturday:</span> Beef enchiladas, re fried beans, tortilla chips and salsa<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Sunday:</span> Italian pot roast, mashed potatoes, broccoli<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Crock Pot Chili</span><br /><ul><li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient"> 2 pounds ground beef</li><li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient"> 2 (16 ounce) cans kidney beans, rinsed and drained</li><li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient"> 2 (14.5 ounce) cans diced tomatoes, undrained</li><li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient"> 1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce</li><li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient"> 2 medium onions, chopped</li><li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient"> 1 green pepper, chopped</li><li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient"> 2 cloves garlic, minced</li><li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient"> 2 tablespoons chili powder</li><li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient"> 2 teaspoons salt</li><li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient"> 1 teaspoon pepper</li><li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient">Shredded Chaddar cheese<br /></li></ul><br /><ol><li><span class="plaincharacterwrap break"> In a skillet, cook beef over medium heat until no longer pink; drain. Transfer to a slow cooker. Add the next nine ingredients. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4 hours. Garnish individual servings with cheese if desired. </span></li></ol>Summerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17028753082967097277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6735803312848636834.post-85367543878105064452011-09-08T05:48:00.006-04:002011-09-10T06:31:55.804-04:00Moms are busy people- Giveaway!!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4fC82Qg-iigUHDhVKEyXFKRCC3OFwoJNQZe2a-oNmm3oI_Kf9PjmbqDyL2x5pmsdVbTDoXGO5PIUfz5M3au3haXPeL0WQFWCwupBC_ITrprUlvP4xgQREYAt1FrH2DAbMy9VlLiHk0SY/s1600/drive.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 197px; height: 255px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4fC82Qg-iigUHDhVKEyXFKRCC3OFwoJNQZe2a-oNmm3oI_Kf9PjmbqDyL2x5pmsdVbTDoXGO5PIUfz5M3au3haXPeL0WQFWCwupBC_ITrprUlvP4xgQREYAt1FrH2DAbMy9VlLiHk0SY/s400/drive.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5649928838002821426" border="0" /></a>I have to say that this fall my schedule has really exploded. I have a 4 month old that needs to go to doctor appointments. Two kids in school- different schedules of course. Dance, soccer and swim lessons. The list goes on and on.<br /><br />Good times....for them.<br /><br />Mostly I find myself in the mini van wondering how I got to be a taxi driver.<br /><br />((I had time to think about it alot when while buckling my babies into their car seats. I got snagged by a fishing pole that the hubster had rigged inside the top of the van. We had recently been on vacation and he hadn't removed them out of our van, a hook got lose and well.... he caught himself a big one. I was hooked from behind so I could ponder these deep questions like, "how did we get so busy?" I also wondered how many ways I could make him pay for this too but I digress.))<br /><br />So when BP offered some tips and tricks for busy moms, I thought I would share. I have to say that when I read them, I got some great ideas! See them <a href="http://www.blogger.com/BPCommuteBetter.com"></a><a href="http://mybpstation.com/little-things-for-you/tips-to-commute-better/">here.</a><br /><br />As an added bonus they are sending one lucky reader this "Mom on the go commuter basket which includes a gas card!!!. (Who couldn't use a gas card?)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj05-Zqq-bA4AGIhcuaTQ7xVZ4C29E1_rXxLDZ270wp9AkRSvxDsbC-YujbWIy6LkNAY04hZ1q_pvtH6A1IIQC40HaY7DA75LyWjDe4zUFxVhcRB1m6leonWNH7GKVjGgxgoY7GXDqWJSU/s1600/GetAttachment.aspx.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 160px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj05-Zqq-bA4AGIhcuaTQ7xVZ4C29E1_rXxLDZ270wp9AkRSvxDsbC-YujbWIy6LkNAY04hZ1q_pvtH6A1IIQC40HaY7DA75LyWjDe4zUFxVhcRB1m6leonWNH7GKVjGgxgoY7GXDqWJSU/s400/GetAttachment.aspx.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5649926174998155426" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Just leave a comment below telling me where you would go with your handy dandy gas card and I will pick a winner next week!Summerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17028753082967097277noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6735803312848636834.post-91204520756769051732011-09-06T14:20:00.002-04:002011-09-06T14:27:12.133-04:00Housekeeping<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj2vUFwHrvKWiQQIQ44ODVC2RuUc43e8MYkUbP8uNGPkizXGGJXf5PZ5KGRiX15gYKCJfW1IwgXbpk1pk4Zynt4OCyLYYZqvSdcJU8IQNXO90bM_-wsAJM4J92UxHevJwxolvCOzxH6JM/s1600/moma.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 188px; height: 255px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj2vUFwHrvKWiQQIQ44ODVC2RuUc43e8MYkUbP8uNGPkizXGGJXf5PZ5KGRiX15gYKCJfW1IwgXbpk1pk4Zynt4OCyLYYZqvSdcJU8IQNXO90bM_-wsAJM4J92UxHevJwxolvCOzxH6JM/s400/moma.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5649314893783711010" border="0" /></a><br />Hey all !!! I didn't blog at all last week. I was just in a funk. So that means that I have put off menu planning and a couple of giveaways that I have had planned. ((I also managed to get the hubs to drag all my fall decorations out so that I could decorate the house.))<br /><br />Priorities. :)<br /><br />Anywho. I will be posting 2 giveaways this week and hopefully sharing some recipes that we tried.<br /><br />Hope you guys are having a great week !!!Summerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17028753082967097277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6735803312848636834.post-5458027270740528722011-08-26T08:00:00.001-04:002011-08-26T08:08:11.041-04:00my emotional ramblings<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4faDwJU5eW9LlcPVea1PQBV3KXz1nHjmc9Zkbd8IOvhTRTMEoBVSaEktFVWub9LMxwevPhkGSXVKtfW9nsaA2hqWOJljy8X-FzIW391li-JpcKrFKzhwkhkMu4T82ry-tIoEzkIYLgJw/s1600/024.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4faDwJU5eW9LlcPVea1PQBV3KXz1nHjmc9Zkbd8IOvhTRTMEoBVSaEktFVWub9LMxwevPhkGSXVKtfW9nsaA2hqWOJljy8X-FzIW391li-JpcKrFKzhwkhkMu4T82ry-tIoEzkIYLgJw/s400/024.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5645134473752519474" border="0" /></a>
<br />My baby, my son, will be starting in kindergarten this week.
<br />
<br />Gone are the days of lazily laying on the couch asking his mama for some more milk while he giggles with his sister. All day movie marathons, running through the sprinklers, morning zoo trips, eating cherries on the porch, making Popsicles, chasing lightning bugs, painting, taking long strolls.
<br />
<br />I still remember praying for his very existence. I begged God for him to bless me with a healthy baby. Fresh off of a loss, I was raw, exposed and hurting.
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<br />God did bless me with a baby. I laughed and cried when I felt him move from within me the first time. I held my husbands hand and cried again when we saw that beautiful heartbeat on the screen.
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<br />Every ache and pain and discomfort was worth it. I prayed every night and day that this baby would be healthy and strong. (God got the last laugh on this one because he made him strong all right....strong willed!)
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<br />Then the day of his birth which I can recall every last scary detail. The day we almost lost our precious baby boy before his life even began.
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<br />How an awesome God spared him.
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<br />How I was changed forever.
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<br />I thought the painful breastfeeding and sleepless nights would last forever. I was oh so wrong. They passed without me even noticing. Now where a crib once stood, stands a big boy bed with fire truck sheets and prized possessions stacked on a play tool bench beside him. Treasures.
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<br />Where has the time gone? Where is that baby boy that I used to rock and sing and soothe every fear that he had? He has been replaced by a big boy that doesn't want me to walk him in his school and wants to wear "cool clothes" .
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<br />My first instinct is to hold even tighter onto my baby.
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<br />God is working on this mamas heart to not live in fear. That this child has an awesome purpose. One that goes beyond anything that I could imagine.
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<br /><span style="font-style: italic;">"Let me work everything out"...</span>I hear God whisper to my heart.
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<br />I have a difficult time with letting go of my precious one. I try to remember that God loves my baby even more than I do. I can't quite wrap my mind around it.
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<br />So I pray.
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<br />I pray that he will maintain his kind, kind heart and compassion for others. That he will not become hard to this world while not getting trampled over either. That he will have the courage to stand tall for what he believes is right and doesn't follow the crowd. That he will keep his innocence.
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<br />I pray and try to let the Lord pry away the white knuckled grip that I want to have on my boy.
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<br />The awful truth is that he will get hurt. People will be unkind. He will learn things that I would never expose him to within this home. He will have some tough choices to make.
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<br />The glorious truth is that God is still on the throne and and still in control. He cares about this mamas tears. He holds my son in his hand and calls him his own. He has patience with me and reminds me to savor these moments because they go by too quickly.
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<br /><h6 style="font-style: italic;" class="uiStreamMessage" ft="{"type":1}"><span style="font-size:180%;"><span class="messageBody" ft="{"type":3}">"Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert." Isaiah 43:19</span></span></h6>
<br />Summerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17028753082967097277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6735803312848636834.post-65465942666184276272011-08-24T07:12:00.003-04:002011-08-24T07:23:35.511-04:00WFMW: Bad fruit<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4Bq2lSFujJ7cvy_VkRBQSRZnaqOBlCdNQnBoL105At8fSLhSq1gTnbDR2rP4ifSQXouUUgImiXM0VBiJVxFzmvVtzkyYFu01rlXtrcdbfbFSTR78dWV_nkqtSUQpJRtK0CVLl3odbNgo/s1600/wfmwbannerKRISTEN.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 230px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4Bq2lSFujJ7cvy_VkRBQSRZnaqOBlCdNQnBoL105At8fSLhSq1gTnbDR2rP4ifSQXouUUgImiXM0VBiJVxFzmvVtzkyYFu01rlXtrcdbfbFSTR78dWV_nkqtSUQpJRtK0CVLl3odbNgo/s400/wfmwbannerKRISTEN.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5644378871402746514" border="0" /></a>I just love when I buy fruit and about 1 1/2 days later it starts to go down hill.
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<br />NOT !!!
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<br />I hate to waste anything so this really irks me. I have found a solution that works for us and I thought I would share it.
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<br />I take any banana, peach or berries that are starting to turn to the dark side and remove any stems or peeling. I think slice or cube it, place it in a freezer bag and pop it in the freezer.
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh17_D6UYXa_GjxhidrqS2B6hKLTvO7A41LdwAu7FVk3St3E4Ccm0HhNL771wiS99UIUB1-VrJuQRaJRMQOst9pmbus2VHAt2F3Rq6Gu2hjqKGoGWuL7MTVt8TubxR8_cGExMLePTp5tWU/s1600/images.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 225px; height: 225px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh17_D6UYXa_GjxhidrqS2B6hKLTvO7A41LdwAu7FVk3St3E4Ccm0HhNL771wiS99UIUB1-VrJuQRaJRMQOst9pmbus2VHAt2F3Rq6Gu2hjqKGoGWuL7MTVt8TubxR8_cGExMLePTp5tWU/s400/images.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5644381455489779730" border="0" /></a>
<br />Then whenever my littles want a smoothie for breakfast, I grab it out of the freezer. Add some vanilla yogurt and milk and you have an easy nutritious breakfast!!
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<br />(You can also do this for peppers and onions....just don't use them for smoothies. Save them for recipes and pizza toppings!)
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<br />And that totally works for this mama!
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<br />
<br />For more great WFMW ideas visit <a href="http://wearethatfamily.com/2011/08/wfmw-kids-clothes-swap/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+wearethatfamily%2FGaiB+%28We+are+THAT+Family%29">We Are That Family !!!</a>
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<br />Summerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17028753082967097277noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6735803312848636834.post-8628428300067931212011-08-22T06:57:00.005-04:002011-08-22T07:15:11.412-04:00Menu Plan Monday: School time!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEB7hFu8LEEwRDV-fa5wTpiCVcjRUkIlq3zRW-zHStNWw-db72KLjweOJd6mUppsXhIYObF1A58roDBdHlqshdMxyebZLnQ3Y14GF0BCiBe4p-6EncNKm2J2Ha-5dNrqnURVij_rm0ogE/s1600/mpm-1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEB7hFu8LEEwRDV-fa5wTpiCVcjRUkIlq3zRW-zHStNWw-db72KLjweOJd6mUppsXhIYObF1A58roDBdHlqshdMxyebZLnQ3Y14GF0BCiBe4p-6EncNKm2J2Ha-5dNrqnURVij_rm0ogE/s400/mpm-1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5643633066002509682" border="0" /></a>
<br /><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">I won't even get started about my emotions on my first born starting school. (I have a tissue in my hand right now!) I do know that I need simple easy meals that I don't have to think about while we get into the swing of things!! This also means trying to stretch our meats again. (I use this weeks pot roast leftovers to make yummy beef and noodles !!!) Happy eating y'all !!! </span>
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<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Monday:</span> BBQ chicken, mac and cheese, baked beans and salad
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<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tuesday:</span> Pork stir fry, egg rolls, brown rice
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<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Wednesday</span>: Leftover buffet- Big Mama is not cookin!!!
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<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Thursday: </span>Crock pot beef roast, roasted carrots and broccoli
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<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Friday: </span>Pizza Night !
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<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Saturday:</span>BBQ chicken wraps (see below) with fresh garden salsa
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<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Sunday:</span> Beef and noodles, mashed potatoes, green beans
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<br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">BBQ Chicken Wraps</span>
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<br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Take leftover BBQ chicken and cut into strips or chunks. Brush a whole wheat tortilla with some extra bbq sauce and fill with cheddar cheese and tomatoes.</span>
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<br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Fold bottom up, then both opposite sides, until tightly folded.</span>
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<br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Grill seam side down, about 10 minutes or until golden. (Turning halfway through)</span>
<br />Summerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17028753082967097277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6735803312848636834.post-71138940451517563262011-08-20T08:05:00.006-04:002011-08-20T08:22:39.579-04:00Project Kitchen Organization: Baking Drawer<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSxMDpPmsmo4h-FcdV9iv5pSP2JKUiq_1_c86pwLzcs5G_EzYyjm1wUD9o9lOQFlnznrM95haTZb3p7G9AvTDwwNX5SfY3gC1boGaKfhMFb2dBlnw5bVr1OsBCSEjfQm-DkoRiKmt8mwM/s1600/003.JPG">
<br /></a>
<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVqFvKZkKeG5JU3C1SKsF7wfXUCobGqOQTHh8uZwBD_hluCYYtvSGTl2eIceE0XATCWwu1RsqknduJPrEIKSSWEhOwQBRa52ubCUrg49ylMVQ8QyXNgo0mKQsJRm7myUKYV91ovNLTDmM/s1600/mom.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 133px; height: 160px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVqFvKZkKeG5JU3C1SKsF7wfXUCobGqOQTHh8uZwBD_hluCYYtvSGTl2eIceE0XATCWwu1RsqknduJPrEIKSSWEhOwQBRa52ubCUrg49ylMVQ8QyXNgo0mKQsJRm7myUKYV91ovNLTDmM/s400/mom.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5642908334862508434" border="0" /></a>
<br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">I will be the first to admit that I went a little crazy with the nesting when I was pregnant with my last princess. I was like a mad woman with the crazy look in her eye and all. My family simply stepped to the side and let me do my thing. (Often stepping over piles of containers, bags and bins)</span>
<br />
<br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">After the baby I found the organization very useful and effective and am thankful that I got it all done. I thought I would take the next couple of weeks to go through and share some of the things that worked really well. Happy Organizing!!
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<br />
<br /></span>I have to tell you that I<span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;"> </span><span style="font-style: italic;">love</span> to bake!<span style="font-weight: bold;"></span><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;"> </span>I also have to tell you that since I have three children I don't have alot of time to do it !! So when I do want to bake, I want to know where to find my apple core thingy (technical term), lemon zester, rolling pin and other essential tools.
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSxMDpPmsmo4h-FcdV9iv5pSP2JKUiq_1_c86pwLzcs5G_EzYyjm1wUD9o9lOQFlnznrM95haTZb3p7G9AvTDwwNX5SfY3gC1boGaKfhMFb2dBlnw5bVr1OsBCSEjfQm-DkoRiKmt8mwM/s1600/003.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSxMDpPmsmo4h-FcdV9iv5pSP2JKUiq_1_c86pwLzcs5G_EzYyjm1wUD9o9lOQFlnznrM95haTZb3p7G9AvTDwwNX5SfY3gC1boGaKfhMFb2dBlnw5bVr1OsBCSEjfQm-DkoRiKmt8mwM/s400/003.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5642911852352382898" border="0" /></a>
<br />So I made a whole drawer that is nothing but my special little gadgets and tools. (A drawer that no one has any business being in except me! :)
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<br />
<br />
<br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Today I am participating in <a href="http://orgjunkie.com/blog">I'm an organizing junkie</a></span>
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<br />Summerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17028753082967097277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6735803312848636834.post-66977732351108057662011-08-17T07:26:00.003-04:002011-08-17T07:45:31.468-04:00WFMW: What my child CAN do.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi66emRnINpTKzhsSWGac6erOjbKdvwv6VZ5eOE1FKLpOH8KLMQGqAS0T60J9ZIHoYJzq2eMt9ExXUnwtV7ap73MNdqvocVE771SfaEoQ1p79xv-pvLPAyQ7QIqqvLznT-5Qk4LGXaGNM/s1600/wfmwbannerKRISTEN.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 230px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi66emRnINpTKzhsSWGac6erOjbKdvwv6VZ5eOE1FKLpOH8KLMQGqAS0T60J9ZIHoYJzq2eMt9ExXUnwtV7ap73MNdqvocVE771SfaEoQ1p79xv-pvLPAyQ7QIqqvLznT-5Qk4LGXaGNM/s400/wfmwbannerKRISTEN.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5641789635552687522" border="0" /></a>
<br />This week over at Works for me Wednesday, they are talking about what helps you "back to school". I have been thinking about this alot since I have my oldest baby going in to kindergarten (gulp) and the other one starting preschool. (double gulp)
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<br />I have been thinking about sending them out in this world and what tools they need to have to survive it. (I know, I know....they are only 3 and 5 but it starts young.)
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<br />I sat down and made a list of all the things that my kids CAN do this year. You know....things that they are not currently expected to do and won't kill them to start?!
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<br />* Clear their own dishes
<br />* Put their dirty clothes in a hamper
<br />* Pick up their own toys
<br />* Put their book bags in their room and on their hook
<br />* Pick out their clothes the night before
<br />(Thus saving all the drama for their grandmama..just sayin.)
<br />* Make their own bed in the morning (and I will resist the urge to re-do it !!)
<br />* Start to give some of their own coins to church (I will match it )
<br />* Help their sibling with a task. (Because we are in this together in this house!)
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<br />This list is going to go on the fridge the first day of school and hopefully will be a reminder to this mama !
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<br />For more school WFMW ideas visit We are That Family!
<br />Summerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17028753082967097277noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6735803312848636834.post-85653398654754164562011-08-12T08:31:00.001-04:002011-08-12T08:32:42.981-04:00And the winner is......<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjajyvTCMDgrVeGTPOgjnytw4VcEIpM9d9fenGPPlwzvJermOC2s-GrYb57OSg1OokwmQsuCRof6sSCZ59_jdV2I77a9fyG3swd5c_Xs96zElkQHPNdzUgmyMSBBQSdRZGp9SgzjAM_W_g/s1600/french-dip-melt.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjajyvTCMDgrVeGTPOgjnytw4VcEIpM9d9fenGPPlwzvJermOC2s-GrYb57OSg1OokwmQsuCRof6sSCZ59_jdV2I77a9fyG3swd5c_Xs96zElkQHPNdzUgmyMSBBQSdRZGp9SgzjAM_W_g/s400/french-dip-melt.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5639946163593354386" border="0" /></a>And the winner of the Sweet Clove Sunshine cafe gift certificate is......
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<br />April !!!!
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<br />I will be e-mailing you...congrats!!
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<br />Summerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17028753082967097277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6735803312848636834.post-25898614058403732792011-08-12T07:53:00.003-04:002011-08-12T08:05:48.403-04:00Project Kitchen Organization: Junk Drawer
<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL31_7gBEACbHyYFyVN4wIRAJ94omG_B702HdbM_dSDe7RFRpWBiVxgQZqt007VrmKXKJIKp9IFINKp4AOym1-_HrWhCSRsYHTQgiqlV4cUoM4ULikem6rNqfvomWfR5F53L-BzAfgP3Q/s1600/mom.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 133px; height: 160px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL31_7gBEACbHyYFyVN4wIRAJ94omG_B702HdbM_dSDe7RFRpWBiVxgQZqt007VrmKXKJIKp9IFINKp4AOym1-_HrWhCSRsYHTQgiqlV4cUoM4ULikem6rNqfvomWfR5F53L-BzAfgP3Q/s400/mom.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5639936689651118738" border="0" /></a>
<br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">I will be the first to admit that I went a little crazy with the nesting when I was pregnant with my last princess. I was like a mad woman with the crazy look in her eye and all. My family simply stepped to the side and let me do my thing. (Often stepping over piles of containers, bags and bins)</span>
<br />
<br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">After the baby I found the organization very useful and effective and am thankful that I got it all done. I thought I would take the next couple of weeks to go through and share some of the things that worked really well. Happy Organizing!!
<br />
<br /></span>Everyone has one, right?<span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;"> </span><span>A place to put those random trinkets</span> like tape, balloons (for that "I need a balloon mama" emergency), mints, pens, post its. You name it. It's useless, however if you can't find anything in the drawer.
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLcUd8kwlp-8XbXjvQxcG7DYFqkWe3oavB825YKf7KJvcApkfMtkA5WpXeCXAZKhAL5FH5gJrhyphenhyphen_cpsi_-FVoNYh7xX2M2lVCHOVlzAmHKmGm7EC-B6_5iY2JTv5y8K6q48gtu_UZ4XwE/s1600/012.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLcUd8kwlp-8XbXjvQxcG7DYFqkWe3oavB825YKf7KJvcApkfMtkA5WpXeCXAZKhAL5FH5gJrhyphenhyphen_cpsi_-FVoNYh7xX2M2lVCHOVlzAmHKmGm7EC-B6_5iY2JTv5y8K6q48gtu_UZ4XwE/s400/012.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5639939189713774354" border="0" /></a>I found that with just a couple of dividers the drawer stays neat and I keep a little sanity. (Notice, I said a little.)
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<br />Today I will be posting at <a href="http://orgjunkie.com/2011/08/52-weeks-32-hiring-a-professional-organizer.html">"I'm an Organizing junkie".</a>
<br />Summerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17028753082967097277noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6735803312848636834.post-90986461206506483082011-08-11T07:38:00.004-04:002011-08-11T07:47:47.226-04:00Don't Forget !! School countdown jar!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFTQL1nWVRDGFt5EkVHfyczD3y1nu0ScmifcgRRUuY3szjEn9xnxHSdsXC347ri6qYUDlQkQIQaO-C8fCoEtUOVcPjxzu-k_yBRjC_Jh3Re5c-KXzYEx9h7DmZUfEXxPler_5XNmsdiBY/s1600/028.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFTQL1nWVRDGFt5EkVHfyczD3y1nu0ScmifcgRRUuY3szjEn9xnxHSdsXC347ri6qYUDlQkQIQaO-C8fCoEtUOVcPjxzu-k_yBRjC_Jh3Re5c-KXzYEx9h7DmZUfEXxPler_5XNmsdiBY/s400/028.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5639563505097500450" border="0" /></a>
<br />Don't forget your school countdown jar!! (If you forget what it is , see the original post <a href="http://everythingmoms.blogspot.com/2009/07/wfmw-school-countdown-jar.html">here</a> )
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<br />This year I have 2 going to school so we changed things up a little bit. We used some leftover pastel Valentines M&m's for the princess and primary colors for the big one. :)
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<br />I also made them count out the number of M&M's they needed.
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<br />Cause' I'm super mean like that :)
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<br />They have really been enjoying their daily m&m !!
<br />Summerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17028753082967097277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6735803312848636834.post-52796095249268267972011-08-08T07:43:00.003-04:002011-08-08T07:55:05.718-04:00Menu Plan Monday: Cleaning out the stockpile!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJfX6zbM6mLATJzJaPqkwnm4wH13Al-SFf7-eSVSMy5tBXJC4icJyhHr-nuCii6wXDukhDbfZ5luRB2fvLCsmPLcjtkK2ES_ZQ1vp5Py8T_zmrB03Z8mo3gDnJ1GleoDyRMxonrGO79UY/s1600/mpm-1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJfX6zbM6mLATJzJaPqkwnm4wH13Al-SFf7-eSVSMy5tBXJC4icJyhHr-nuCii6wXDukhDbfZ5luRB2fvLCsmPLcjtkK2ES_ZQ1vp5Py8T_zmrB03Z8mo3gDnJ1GleoDyRMxonrGO79UY/s400/mpm-1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5638449660525224930" border="0" /></a>
<br /><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Hey girls!! My name is Summer and I am a stockpiler. Notice, I did not say hoarder. I don't collect 453 salad dressings just to feel good. :) I do however believe that if something is a really good deal and my family will eat it then I will buy however many I have a coupon for! So, this week we are living off our stockpile. (It may or may not have something to do with not wanting to a big grocery trip. Ill never talk.) I found these chicken thighs in the freezer and bunch of homemade orange french toast that I had made. To me that says, "breakfast for dinner and find a recipe for chicken thighs!" I hope you have a yummy week!!</span>
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<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Monday:</span> Orange french toast, bacon, eggs
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<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tuesday:</span> Lemon baked chicken thighs, brown rice, broccoli
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<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Wednesday: </span>Leftover buffet..mama is not cookin!
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<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Thursday:</span> Ravioli lasagna, garlic bread, salad with garden veggies
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<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Friday:</span> Pizza Night!
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<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Saturday:</span> Grilled chicken, grilled asparagus, corn on the cob
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<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Sunday:</span> Pot roast, mashed potatoes, green beans
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<br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Lemon Chicken Thighs</span>
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<br /> 3-4 pounds chicken parts (thighs and legs recommended), skin-on, bone-in, trimmed of
<br /> excess fat <ul><li class="ingredient">2 Tbsp lemon zest</li><li class="ingredient">1/3 cup lemon juice</li><li class="ingredient">2 cloves garlic, crushed</li><li class="ingredient">2 Tbsp fresh chopped thyme (or 2 teaspoons dried)</li><li class="ingredient">1 Tbsp fresh chopped rosemary (or 1 teaspoon dried)</li><li class="ingredient">1 teaspoons salt</li><li class="ingredient">1 teaspoon black pepper</li></ul> <ul><li class="ingredient">2-3 Tbsp melted butter</li></ul>
<br /><p><b>1</b> Place lemon juice, lemon peel, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper in a small bowl, whisk to combine. With the tip of a sharp knife, cut into each chicken piece one or two times by about 1/2 an inch. (This will help the marinade penetrate.) Place the chicken pieces and the marinade in a gallon-sized freezer bag. Rotate the bag so that all chicken pieces are coated with the marinade. Seal the bag and place in a bowl in the refrigerator (in case of leakage). Let marinate for 2 hours.</p> <p><b>2</b> Preheat oven to 425°F. Remove chicken from marinade and place in a single layer in a large baking dish, skin side up. Reserve the marinade. Use a pastry brush to brush a little melted butter on to each piece of chicken.</p> <p><b>3</b> Bake for a total of 50 to 55 minutes, until the skins are crispy brown, and the chicken is cooked through, juices running clear (breasts have an internal temperature of 165°F and thighs 175°F). Half-way through the baking, at about the 25 minute mark, baste the chicken pieces generously with reserved marinade.</p> <p>Depending on the size of the breasts, they may be ready before the thighs, so if you are cooking a mix of chicken parts, keep that in mind, you may have to take them out of the oven before the thighs. </p> <p>Let rest, covered in foil, for 10 minutes before serving.</p> <p><b>4</b> Pour the juices from the pan into a serving bowl. Use a tablespoon to skim the fat off the top (save the fat for cooking with later, or discard, but do not discard down the drain or it will solidify and clog your drain). Serve the chicken with the juices on the side or a little poured over the top of the chicken.</p> <p>Serve alone or with steamed rice.</p>
<br />Summerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17028753082967097277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6735803312848636834.post-35885761488037949752011-08-05T08:00:00.000-04:002011-08-05T08:00:20.097-04:00Confessions of a desperate housemama: Grocery store woes.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheqTD2YugHY3jKV05ZZEhy-8DRwn1S254nCo9h-y8au7JZjTslSk6HJzYV-UBCWf4fgVEs7Btzi5XLCQHYWzjo291y9KlaLFrKfHu6N6HvQC65HuIkE9FLypsotpjFMxeMneITORDxu-o/s1600/breast.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 263px; height: 191px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheqTD2YugHY3jKV05ZZEhy-8DRwn1S254nCo9h-y8au7JZjTslSk6HJzYV-UBCWf4fgVEs7Btzi5XLCQHYWzjo291y9KlaLFrKfHu6N6HvQC65HuIkE9FLypsotpjFMxeMneITORDxu-o/s400/breast.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5636244812923650674" border="0" /></a><br />I had the best of hopes for the day.<br /><br />That was my first mistake.<br /><br />I needed to do some grocery shopping and I decided to take the princess with me. Since I am a human cow, I was afraid she would open her big blue eyes the moment I pulled out of the driveway and cry non stop.<br /><br />I told the hubs that I would take her because she would probably snooze through the whole thing. I had grand visions of a peaceful, beautiful baby sleeping while I save my family money couponing and deal hunting.<br /><br />EHHHHHHHH. (That was the sound of the buzzer signaling my wrongness at this assumption.)<br /><br />I got about to the front door when the little ball of joy opened her eyes and decided that she had slept enough. I felt my belly flip flop in worry with the hours of shopping I had before me than I just as quickly told myself that she would either go back to sleep or be highly entertained by all the sights.<br /><br />Do I need to sound the buzzer again??<br /><br />It started with little whines and a couple grunts. Three isles in we were in full crying mode. I had to search for the right deal and then again through my coupon binder while pushing the cart back and forth, back and forth. Over and over again.<br /><br />By the time I reached the canned goods that wouldn't even appease my little blessing. I thought maybe she would like to be in the carrier against me. Then she would fall asleep right?!?<br /><br />I got her feet in the carrier right as she threw her arms out and knocked a jar of olives out of my hand, sending it to its death. I heard the glass break and the very nice grocery man came and assured me it was no big deal.<br /><br />I broke a speed record going to the next isle.<br /><br />"Clean up in isle five...just follow the screaming baby."<br /><br />Little miss was not satisfied with this carrier arrangement however, so I started to bounce my body down the isle, singing the Steely Dan song that was blaring over the loundspeaker.<br /><br />bounce bounce. " When you smile for the camera.....you know I love you better" People were trying to look without being rude.<br /><br />Then even this would not satisfy. I felt my milk come in, a direct response to her little shrieks of discontent.<br /><br />I looked around in panic. I had a cart full of food, some things left to get and a very unhappy girl on my chest.<br /><br />Why oh why didn't I wear my nursing tank or a top that could be shoved to the side to nurse?!?<br />I had to have a t-shirt that you had to lift completely up to get to the girls...geesh.<br /><br />When I hit the frozen foods, I tried to maneuver one of the girls out the top of the t-shirt while having the carrier cover any show that I might give to the patrons. I then tried throwing a receiving blanket over one shoulder, lifting my t-shirt up on one side to expose enough for her to be appeased while yanking it down in the back so I wasn't totally naked from the rear.<br /><br />That didn't work and generally ticked her off.<br /><br />I was a desperate woman, which isn't a far jump for me. (Ask my friends or hubs...they will tell you.)<br /><br />As the beads of sweat started to form, I pushed my cart to the front of the store, looking for a chair, bench or anything where I could discreetly sit my bottom down and feed my child.<br /><br />Nothin.<br /><br />I saw that off to the left was a semi- segregated area.<br /><br />The liqueur section.<br /><br />I made my way there, screaming baby and all and hid in front of one of the shelves. I then lifted my whole shirt up. (I told you I was desperate.) and attached crying baby to an udder.<br /><br />Sweet, sweet silence.<br /><br />I did manage to get a receiving blanket over me but who was I kidding? My back was totally exposed and you could hear, suck, suck, gulp. (The girl was hungry, ok?!?)<br /><br />Of course being my child, she was going to be leisurely about her eating. (The experts always see eat slowly, right?)<br /><br />I had nothing to do but look at all the liqueur around me. I seriously contemplated opening a bottle and taking the edge off my nerves. I wondered to myself...<br /><br />"Self, wonder if I could unscrew a bottle with my teeth, while only being able to hold the bottle with one hand?"<br /><br />I shook my head into rational thinking again and decided that alcohol was not the answer. Especially if someone came around the bend and saw me nursing and drinking.<br /><br />My thought soon turned to panic while I then thought about all the people who could come into my isle. You know, ex-boyfriends, that perfect mom from the PTA, construction workers.<br /><br />The princess finally did get her fill and I gently placed her in her carrier while trying to put all my clothes back in place. I told little girl that mama had been through the ringer today so I expected her to be a quiet little angel the rest of the trip.<br /><br />She responded with a goofy grin and moving her bowels in a mighty way...as in blowout in isle 20.<br /><br />Not the sign I was looking for.Summerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17028753082967097277noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6735803312848636834.post-84657575827024090422011-08-02T08:20:00.004-04:002011-08-02T08:51:31.374-04:00Sweet Clove Sunshine cafe review and giveaway !!!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmPYBNhvQbjEWoPh_1WUyFRs8Tr8Xz9mkh5SVC0LTrKsGGwY7HZWeayvvAu4HGKxxaDE_WFf1TnM0DkHOSc0cWWyfOK2XLFqe6Mbqjpkv46G2TKAj9xLarWWHZa1FHjTT9OCTjhV3rhEI/s1600/french-dip-melt.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmPYBNhvQbjEWoPh_1WUyFRs8Tr8Xz9mkh5SVC0LTrKsGGwY7HZWeayvvAu4HGKxxaDE_WFf1TnM0DkHOSc0cWWyfOK2XLFqe6Mbqjpkv46G2TKAj9xLarWWHZa1FHjTT9OCTjhV3rhEI/s400/french-dip-melt.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5636239411934358514" border="0" /></a><br />I am not a breakfast person. Never have been. So when I was asked to review a brand new breakfast/ lunch restaurant, I was a little skeptical. I have been to those type of restaurants before. It's not like I <span style="font-style: italic;">didn't </span>like them, I just wasn't impressed. <span style="font-style: italic;">Just being honest here, people.<br /><br /></span>But I went with another bloggy friend for lunch. I had just had the princess and I needed some much needed time out. We decided that we would try the new <span style="font-weight: bold;">Sweet Clove Sunshine Cafe, </span>which is owned by the Honey baked ham store. Its brand new and I like me some ham so we thought we would give it a shot.<br /><br />The first thing I noticed when we sat down on a lovely terrace is that the menu that they handed me was the largest <a href="http://www.honeybakedforyou.com/media/23353/sweetclovemenu.pdf">selection in a menu</a> that I have seen in my life. And it wasn't just ham (although Honey baked ham entrees could be ordered. ) It was an extensive breakfast and lunch menu with many options and pictures that made my mouth water. I decided on the french dip served on rustic pan bread and a cup of the baked potato soup. It was excellent. (I wanted to lick the bowl, ok? )<br /><br />I loved it so much that I asked my hubby to take me back for breakfast on my birthday! I had pineapple upside down pancakes that was as big as my head. (I especially liked when my lovely waitress brought out a huge bowl of freshly whopped cream and asked me if I would like some. Yes, please !!!!) Then we had the bacon.<br /><br />My hubs is sort of a foodie and it takes alot to knock his socks off. He tasted the bacon and almost dropped his fork. Listen to me when I say, "<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">This is the best bacon that you will ever taste. Period."</span></span> Some genius decided to caramelize the bacon with the glaze they use on the Honey baked ham and they should win some type of award. :) Can you tell I liked it?!?!<br /><br />So I liked it so much I had to share it with you. Click on the link above for the menu to see the awesome selection for yourself or the main website <a href="http://www.honeybakedforyou.com/sweet-clove-home-page.aspx">here.</a> I have also been given a $25 gift card for a lucky reader. (Remember, you can always take <span style="font-weight: bold;">me </span>with you :) )<br /><br />Just look at the menu and leave a comment telling me what you would order with your gift card. I will be choosing the winner next Wednesday! Good luck!!!!<br /><span style="font-style: italic;"><br /><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span></span><br /></span>Summerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17028753082967097277noreply@blogger.com6