Wouters Family

Reading List of 2011

2012-01-04T06:09:00.000-08:00

Well, I beat 2010's record by 1 book. In 2011 I read 29 books!   Here's the list from last year...

Hearts Awakening                           Parr
Loves First Bloom                                                                 Parr
A Hopeful Heart                                                                    Vogel Sawyer
A Promise for Ellie                                          Snelling
The Servant's Quarters                                                        Freed
In Every Heartbeat                       Vogel Sawyer
Courting Miss Amsel                                                            Vogel Sawyer
The Last Days of Dogtown                                           Diamant
Serendipity                                                                           Hake
The Girl in The Gatehouse          Klassen
The Silent Governess                  Klassen
Pick Another Check Out Lane, Honey                                 Deemer, Wheeler
The Bride's House                                                             Dallas
The Pioneer Woman     Drummond
Keep A Little Secret                                                            Garlock
The Boy In The Striped Pajamas                                        Boyne
Water For Elephants     Gruen
Dreams of Joy                                                                     See
The Hunger Games                                                            Collins
Catching Fire                                                                      Collins
Mocking Jay                                                                     Collins
The Farmer's Daughter     Harrison
Room                                                                                 Donoghue
A Stolen Life                                                                      Dugard
Some Girls                                                                         Lauren
Chinese Cinderella                                                            Yen Mah
Among The Hidden                                                           Haddix
Caleb's Crossing                                                               Brooks
Forty Beads                                                                       Evans

There you have it. Anyone have good suggestions for 2012?

Advocare - Chagrin Falls

2012-01-01T12:02:00.000-08:00

On the first day of the new year I'd like to formally announce that I've become an independent consultant with Advocare. Advocare is a nutrition and wellness company that focuses on helping people achieve health and financial goals. The products are of superior quality and are backed by Informed-Choice. The company has an amazing board of medical professional advisors. They also carry some of the biggest names in Olympic and Professional athletic endorsers...Drew Brees, Colt McCoy, Carli Lloyd to name a few, along with entertainers such as Micheal W. Smith.

If you're looking to achieve your health and wellness goals, Advocare is a company that can't be beat. Take a look at my site. I'm starting the 24-Day Challenge on January 3rd with a group of people committed to their health and over all wellness. I'd love for you to join me! The 24-Day Challenge is a great way to jumpstart your weight loss and increase your energy for the new year. Whether you have 10 or 100lbs you want to lose, this is a safe, effective and guaranteed way to get you on the right track to achieve your goals. My friends have lost 10lbs and 16inches in just 24 days. Their husbands...30lbs or more!

Maybe you just need a boost in energy to get you going. Spark will do it! Spark is a vitamin rich energy drink. Its sugar-free and long lasting. Its a healthy balanced source of energy and helps increase mental focus.

This is a great company to work for! Its informative, encouraging and full of positive people to help you get where you want to go. So, let me know when you're ready to jump start a healthy new you in the new year or earn some additional income. The possibilities are endless with Advocare!

O Christmas Tree

2011-12-21T04:47:00.000-08:00

Lets just say I'm going for mom of the year with a tray of Christmas tree cupcakes for the class party!

Find the recipe here. Note: you will need 5 tubs of frosting!! And about two hours!

Holiday Wreath

2011-12-14T09:13:00.000-08:00

And I say "holiday" because you could leave it up til February and change the bow.

Here's what you need:

1 wire coat hanger
5-6 plastic trash bags(grocery bags might work too) cut into 6inch strips
A festive bow
Some festive music, Christmas movie or junk tv to pass the time

Tie strips onto hanger and smoosh together until hanger is completely full.

The Venture

2011-12-11T05:39:00.000-08:00

Did you know I have a small venture?

Did you know I'm promoting it?

Check out my Facebook page!

Book an appointment and get your to-do list done!

Gift Certificates available!

Room With A View

2011-12-09T06:00:00.000-08:00

photo credit here

You think this post would be about some swanky hotel with a fantastic view or something along those lines right? Not so much.

When I was 16, my life consisted of school, work, and a boyfriend. Various school activites came into play and going out with friends was in there are well. I would get excited about football games and driving around in my brown Ford Thunderbird. The highlight of Christmas gifts were new clothes from my parents.

Now, at almost 33, my life consists of school(not my own), work(that I don't get paid for) and a boyfriend(who also happens to be my husband). Various activities come into play(not usually mine) and going out with friends are far and few between(unless you count work parties at someone else home). Today I get excited about grocery shopping and drive around in a black Ford Explorer. The highlight of Christmas gifts are new windows for the house.

Long gone are the days of clothes, shoes, jewelry even.

When I was 16, I never thought at age 33 I'd be excited about new windows in a house.

My room with a view has definetly changed over the years.

What's on your list this year?

Time...Where Has It Gone?

2011-12-08T06:09:00.000-08:00

This morning I've realized that time is truly slipping through my fingers. I think I've always known the days with my sweet babies are flying by...but this morning just seemed to cement that fact even more so.

My 12 year old...wow 12...Will be 13 in two months!

My 10 year old is going off the basketball practice without me staying to watch every single time and getting rides home with friends! He also must wear deoderant now! WHAT!

My little 7 year old, who donated 10 inches of her golden locks in May, was asking to take a shower before school and have her hair blown dry before the bus came. Her hair is also touching her shoulders now...after being cut chin length.

It flies. Time that is. People told me it would. Especially when my sweet children were babies. "It goes so fast" they would say. I would think "I can't wait til they're older...potty trained...sleeping through the night...able to be in a room unsupervised..."

I'll never get those days back. You won't either if you have little ones.

It flies. It truly does. So, now I must focus on enjoying it to the fullest...before its gone.

Joy of The Season

2011-12-07T06:30:00.000-08:00

Why is it always harder to find the Joy of the Season when its suppose to be all around you?

My bright idea this year was an Advent Calendar. Something for the children to look forward to all month long. A little surprise each day, an activity or small adventure. Something to help us find the Joy of the Season.

So far, so good. But then we always have those moments when I say "why have I done this to myself?" Example 1) when a certain child threw a fit at the Christmas tree farm and then proceeded to tell me that he hated his brother. JOY! 2) the inevitable fighting at family game night because one child or another doesn't like the game or doesn't have the patience for their siblings. JOY!

Are these the memories we are trying to build? Fighting, impatience, the dreaded forced time together? Its suppose to be a JOYous season right? Trying to find that JOY. If you know where its hiding let me know okay!

Family Photos with Blue Lily

2011-11-17T12:32:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to share some of the photos from our family shoot! We are so happy with the way they turned out.

Update

2011-11-13T09:54:00.000-08:00

Its been a busy Fall so far.

Three kids at three different schools = three different start times, end times and three different of everything else...conference days, concerts, picture days, etc.
My parent were in town for a week. Fun times.
We took a weekend trip to Chicago! Super fun!
New puppy! White English bulldog. Name - Winston.
I've been working couple days a week getting a client unpacked and organized in her new home.
Kendall's been crazy busy with work...nothing new there!
Kohl started basketball.
Jennie's been busy with Girl Scouts and Kuk Sul Do.
Parker is in middle school this year...that's a whole new world for our house. He's keeping busy with homework, computer animating and Kuk Sul Do.
Go check out Kids Of Sudan and see what's been going on there. We just launched a huge give campaign to keep the kids in school. This is a BIG deal. If we don't receive enough money for their tuition...they will have to leave school! Please give if you can. Send it on to anyone you think would be willing to help this wonderful cause!

That's all for now. Will try to get back to a regular blog schedule :)

Thursday Already...Thank The Lord Jesus!

2011-09-01T05:57:00.000-07:00

Might seem like a crazy title to you, but not so much for me.

Thursday means only one more day left to get through the school week. Can you believe I am saying that already since we are only in our second week of school?

You might sympathize with me if: your child cried every single morning before school, recess, lunch, and snack time because she misses her mother so much and thinks she's going to be sick at school, therefore making her nervous which results in an unsettled stomach which she thinks will make her be sick.

So, thank you dear Lord that its Thursday and we only have one more day to go. And thank you dear Lord that there is no school on Monday eliminating one day of tears from my precious daughter's week. And PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE dear God, help take her anxiety away and replace it with joy. PLEASE!

Just Another Manic Monday

2011-08-29T06:53:00.000-07:00

Jennie age 6

My goal this school year is to have the children leave each morning on a good note. That would mean no yelling from anyone, rushing out the door, forgetting things.

So far, so good. We are getting into the habit of packing lunches and backpacks the night before...what a novel idea! Not that I haven't mentioned it a billion times in the last 7 years, but who listens to me? No one.

On another note, people are having a hard time commenting on my posts. So a system change may be in the works for this little 'ol blog. Any suggestions as to what engine I may want to switch to? Typepad? Wordpress? If you can't leave a comment, then email it to me.

Really digging these folks! Want my pics done with them terribly! They are coming to CLE!! WoooHooo!

Have a great Monday!

Vaccinations

2011-08-27T10:26:00.000-07:00

Parker age 7

This handsome young man is 12 now and just started 7th grade!! That's middle school here in good 'ol OH.
Today he had to get a Tdap booster. He had to physic himself up for it. Who likes to get shots? Kohl will tell you he does....really.
Parker on the other hand is hilarious when it comes to getting shots. He starts the 'oow oww oooooww' yelling before the needle is even within inches of its destination. Maybe he thinks yelling in anticipation of the prick will lessen the pain. Who knows.
Today we went to the Dr. office expecting him to receive 1 shot. Instead he left with 3. Tdap, meningitis, and HepA.
I know vaccinations can be a controversial subject. If you don't believe or agree with vaccinating your child, then you should probably skip the rest of this post and come back another day.
We vaccinate and always have since the day our children were born. All three of our kids are healthy and strong able-bodied individuals. They will continue to grow and develop and be healthy. I don't think a vaccine is going to hinder them from developing or hinder their health.

Totally changing subjects...did anyone catch The Pioneer Woman today on The Food Network? It was great! Makes me want a ranch in the middle of nowhere...almost!

School and Kids and Anxiety

2011-08-26T06:26:00.000-07:00

Jennie age 7

School started on Wednesday.

Everyone was up, ready and out the door on time with a smile. Reports at the end of the day were good. Everyone had a great day.

Now its Friday and the little beauty in the picture above doesn't want to go to school anymore. She cried in the driveway this morning and said she just doesn't want to go. She feels nervous and thinks she's going to be sick.

I can't blame her really. In Kindergarten she felt sick during library and when she went to throw up the librarian told her to hold it....in her mouth til she got to the trash! Now she stresses about going to library...every week. I would too.

She feels nervous all day long. Recess, lunch and pretty much the entire day she's away. Every night she says she hopes she has a good sleep...because months ago she got sick in the middle of the night and now she's convinced she may get sick again. So she worries.

And this momma worries. I don't know how to help her. I want to tell her to suck it and that there's nothing to worry about. I don't tell her that. I know it won't help. I want to keep her home and homeschool her. Why would I put her through this everyday. But I don't, because how will she learn to cope? I'm going to meet with the guidance counselor at her school to see what he might have to say.

No one tells you how hard and heartbreaking it is to be a parent. No one tells you and they should.

Summer Vacation...Who knows what day it is??

2011-07-16T11:34:00.000-07:00

Seems like summer is slipping through our fingers! We had a nice two weeks visit from my dad. He did alot of work on our house. This kids and I learned how to scrape and paint the exterior of a home. We also refinished the deck, built new outside storage doors, fixed rain gutters and the list goes on and on.

Kohl finished his first season of baseball. His team made it to the championship game. His team rocked the last game and won 11-6! We were very excited for him and his teammates. Grandpa got to enjoy 5 games while he was here, so that made it even more special.

Jennie finished her 4 week theater camp. She did an awesome job in the final show. She is having mixed reviews about whether or not she wants to participate again next summer. M-F 9am-1pm for 4 weeks is a long time to be at a day camp on your summer break. I told her we can discuss it next summer. She was happy to hear that.

Parker finished his two week computer course, putting him ahead for 7th grade! He's been spending time getting his summer reading done, skateboarding and hanging out with friends and youth group stuff.

All three children are taking two weeks of tennis lessons and two weeks of swimming. We've been on some fun dog walks by the river where the kids and the dog all go for a swim and explore the water.

Kendall and I will be celebrating 13 years of marriage next month! Woohoo! Got to start planning something fun for us to do together sans kids. Any suggestions?

Summer Vacation...Day 5

2011-06-14T05:31:00.000-07:00

Computer class has started. Theater camp has started. No one has killed eachother...yet!

The wonderful weather in Ohio has been...well...normal for Ohio. You never know what its going to be. We had a couple warm days and the rest have been mellow. A couple thunderstorms to wash away the pollen and what not.

Kendall has some business buddies in town from CA for a couple days. Anyone who knows me, knows I love any reason to entertain or go out. Bring on the drinks and laughs.

Still in the thick of couponing. I know you all thought I was crazy. Last week was my best grocery trip ev-ah!!!! I saved $154 and got $1.20 off per gallon of gas! Seriously, all you skeptics who think it doesn't work should give it a try. Nothing feels better than using the FREE toothpaste I have! I spend an hour a week clipping and planning. That's it. I shop at two stores...not ten.

In other news, my dad is coming out for a couple weeks to help with some home projects. Our house is still for sale btw, so if you know someone who's looking to live in the quaintest town in America, send them our way. Also, my sister's baby is due in almost 8 weeks!! So very exciting!

Summer Vacation - Day 1

2011-06-09T05:04:00.000-07:00

Summer vacation officially is here! We've all been looking forward to this for a few months now. Yesterday was our first full day off. Was oh so exciting and thrilling? Nope. In fact it felt much like a normal school day...minus the school with a whole lot more bickering and pre-teen angst/attitude.

Lord Help Me!! Its only day one!!

Here is a run down of things on our summer agenda:

spend everyday at the pool
Theater camp-Jennie
Computer class-Parker
Lego camp-Parker
Baseball-Kohl
swimming lessons
tennis lessons
Jennie's 7th birthday
library reading club
Chicago?
Boston?
camping somewhere
My sister having her baby late August!!!
Duct Tape Festival
Pittsburgh?

Lots of ? because dates have not been set on those events. For now I'm content to sit in my pjs, drink my coffee and avoid the "what are we doing today" questions. Because frankly, its only the second full day and we shouldn't have anything to do

69 days to go...

Couponing for Realz!!

2011-05-09T13:18:00.000-07:00

So, last time I talked about how I had started couponing. And yes, its true I'm a bit over the top about it. Asking neighbors to save coupons, looking in the recycling bins on trash day up and down the street, posting on FB for local friends to save them for me.

But let me tell you something....this week all my toothpaste and toothbrushes were FREE!!! Yes, FREE! Now a switch has been thrown. Why on earth would I ever pay for toothpaste again, when I know I can get it for FREE? See where I am going with this. I'm not saying I'm going to try and get all our necessities for free, but why pay for toothpaste when I know there is another way. I could not believe it when I checked out at the grocery and all 7 tubes and 7 brushes were free. And here's how it worked:

Colgate was on sale 10 for $10(tangent here - you don't have to buy 10 to get that price. You can buy 1). I had a $0.75 off coupon that doubles up to $1. Actually, I had 7 coupons. That made them all FREE. Same with the toothbrushes. Needless to say, I will not have to put toothpaste on the shopping list for a while. Nice :)

Here are a few other recent savings:
Bic Soleil Razors 4pack reg. price $5.99, sale price $3.99
coupon for $3 off. Final price $0.99 each! I bought 8. Won't need to buy razors for a while.

Right Guard Deodorant reg. price $4.97, sale price $1.99
coupon BOGO free. Final price $0.48 each. I bought 6. And they each came with a free trial body wash!

Today was the best savings so far. Skinny Cow chocolate clusters and Chocolate Crispy bars on sale 2 for $0.98. There was a manufacture coupon right by the product for $0.75 off 2. My store doubles up to $1....making them all FREE!! I came home with alot.

So, lets just say its worth a little time to clip a few coupons and check the ads, peruse the aisles, and look at new displays and new items. You never know what you'll find or how much you'll save.

Couponing

2011-05-01T14:27:00.000-07:00

I've been bitten by the bug...the coupon bug.

I will admit that I have been watching Extreme Couponing and I am amazed, bewildered, enthralled, inspired and sometimes saddened by that show.

Do I need a stockpile of products my family won't eat? No. Do I need a stockpile of of junk? No. Would enough toilet paper, laundry detergent, toothpaste, for a year be nice to have on hand? Yes, yes it would.

Would it be nice to save half....half on my groceries every time I shop? Yes. Would it be worth it to spend an hour a week to clip coupons to save half on my groceries? Yes.

So, five Sunday papers arrived today. The kids and I went through all the coupons. We organized, sorted, clipped and put them all away. They thought it was fun. Are they coupons for stuff I already buy? Yes. Cheese sticks, salsa, frozen taquitos, toilet paper, toothpaste, etc. We didn't clip coupons for stuff we won't use.

I think they thought it was even cooler that I came home with 7 boxes of cereal for FREE this week! They couldn't believe it. Neither could I.

Check out this website if you're interested in getting started. It is very helpful.

If you're on a more organic/natural way of eating, I hear Mambo Sprouts is a great place to get coupons.

Now the haunting question is...why didn't I do this when the kids were babies???? Why???

Saga of a Detox...Day 21

2011-04-15T17:11:00.000-07:00

Today is the final day!!!! Day 21!!! I made it!!!

All in all it has been a great experience. I feel healthy. I have more energy. I'm not craving all that "bad-for-you-cram-it down-your-face-food." Benefits also include sleeping better at night and not waking up groggy in the morning, 10lbs. lost, no more swollen stiff hands or achy joints....and I can get my wedding ring on!! Note: wedding ring fits because fingers are no longer swollen.

The hubs has decided to give it a try. So to celebrate his induction and my completion I made vegetarian chili: lentils, diced tomatoes, onion, collard greens, bell peppers. It was delish!

Now, don't go thinking I'm going out having a mocha, ice cream, pizza and c-a-k-e. Of course I want to. For the next few weeks I'm suppose to re-introduce foods like grains, gluten, soy, dairy etc. back into my diet and see how my body reacts. If my body doesn't like what I put into it, it will tell me through bloating, gas, swelling, etc. I'm suppose to start with grains first. I think I'll go with quinoa, barely, oats. I'm going to try and stay away from wheat altogether. I'm on the hunt for a good gluten free cake mix.

Supplements are still in the mix. Gastro-Fiber and SP Greens. Also, 2 Complete shakes a day.

I would highly recommend this to anyone who wants to clean out your system, jumpstart weight-loss, and just plain feel better.

I'm so glad I made it!!

Saga of a Detox...Day 16

2011-04-09T06:58:00.000-07:00

So I fell off the blogging map for a few days. But NOT off the detox band wagon. Its been overload around here with our house going up for sale, Girl Scouts, and all the other extra curricular activities. I'm in the midst of planning a dinner fundraiser for KidsofSudan as well.

But back to the detox...
I'm pleased to report that I'm able to get my wedding ring on and off with no problems. My hands are no longer swollen and stiff. My skin is clear. I'm not dragging in the morning. I've been sleeping so well! I don't feel like I need a nap mid afternoon. I've even lost 9lbs!! I wasn't going for weight loss...but I'm not complaining!

With everything going so well, don't get the impression that I'm not looking forward to a piece of cake in a week or two. Also, you should know that there was a moment of weakness a few days ago when I came across a box of Thin Mints in the pantry. Two...ok, maybe three...jumped out of the box and into my mouth! How does that happen?? hahhahaa! Honesty here folks. Its not easy when you've gone from lucsious baked goods, bread at every meal, chips whenever...to nothing of the sort...cold! It almost brought me to tears the first week. Alas, I survived. Let me say, that the cookies were not nearly as tasty as I was hoping and I felt completely guilty. Ok, confession over.

Day 11 I was able to add in meat!! Oh happy day! I'm sure you're dying to know what I added. Grilled chicken. Exciting huh :) The most helpful thing during this detox has been to have the foods prepped and ready to go. I cooked up lentils and wild rice, cut up veggies and fruit. We all know that when you're hungry, you don't want to wait 45 minutes for brown rice to cook. I precooked chicken as well. It makes it easy to stay on track. Its also easy to pack up a salad or something when I know I won't make it home for lunch.

Now at Day 16 I'm taking 19 supplement capsules a day, SP Green Food and Gastro Fiber.

The food intake in looking something like this-
Breakfast: green tea, Complete shake, fruit salad, supplements

water, herbal tea, veggies

Lunch: spinach salad w/warm lentils, tomato, onion, basil, carrots,
water,

herbal tea, Complete shake, supplements

Dinner: chicken veggie stir-fry with olive oil and vinegar over wild brown rice

water, supplements

Dessert: frozen fruit

There it is. That's how its looked over the last few days. I have five days left on this program and then I start the reintroduction process. Basically keeping the same food plan and then adding one thing a week like grains, dairy, or soy. Then I watch to see how my body reacts. I'm thinking I'll stay away from gluten altogether. I feel so much better and trimmer that I don't want to even mess with that. But, I'll let you know...check back!

Saga of a Detox...Day 9

2011-04-04T07:02:00.000-07:00

Only two days til meat re-enters the picture! Not that I'm counting down or anything. Hahaha!

Because I've been on this health journey for the last 9 days, I thought I'd try to incorporate some new/reinvented things into the kids' diet. Like ditching Kraft mac-n-cheese. I'm not going to turn this into a bash session about boxed mac. But, we all know its not the utmost in nutrition and health. Food coloring, chemicals. You get the picture. So, I tried homemade mac last night. It was pretty much boiled elbow macaroni and shredded cheese stirred til it melted. One out of three kids liked it. The hubs added a ton more cheese and Tabasco. He puts Tabasco or salsa on pretty much anything, so no surprise there. Kohl said it just wasn't the same. Of course it wasn't! It wasn't neon orange, with artificial flavoring. Now I'm on a mission to find thee perfect homemade mac-n-cheese recipe. Kinda like 5 years ago when I was on a mission to find thee perfect pancake/waffle recipe. Which I did find, by the way. If you want it, let me know. If you have a great homemade mac-n-cheese recipe, send it my way.

Day 9 food intake
Breakfast: green tea, Complete shake, supplements

water, herbal tea

Lunch: awesome salad w/snap peas, onion, tomato, wild greens, 1/2 cup warm lentils, oil&vinegar dressing

water, supplements, Complete shake

Dinner: 1/2 wild brown rice, stir fried broccoli, snap peas, onions, asparagus, brussel sprouts, bell pepper

Dessert: a bowl of frozen pineapple and blueberries

Some other big victories this week...I made cake and cookies for the family and didn't partake! Even made from scratch icing. It smelled divine. And I really wanted to lick the bowl. Like stick my face in it and lick every last drop. But, I didn't. Yea me!

Send those mac recipes my way. The test kitchen is up and running.

Saga of a Detox...Day 7 & 8

2011-04-03T05:56:00.000-07:00

The food intake for day 7 and 8 look pretty much the same as the last 6 days. Fruit, veggies, lentils, wild brown rice, lots of green tea, Complete shakes, water and supplements.

On Day 8 I got to add a "new" supplement, the SP Green Food capsules, bringing the grand total to 45 capsules a day. Sounds exciting I know. Hahah! Lets talk about why I'm taking so many capsules a day. It has something to do with the steady ingesting of the nutrients. When you take a vitamin, in the a.m, chances are you urinate most of it out by mid day leaving your body with nothing else. By taking these supplements 3 times a day, the body is having a constant stream of what it needs during this detox time. That's the way it should be with any supplements you take, even a multi-vitamin. I have a women's one-a-day and it says two pills a day. Those should be taken morning and evening, not both in the morning or both in the evening.

I did have one cheat *gasp*
In a moment of desperation late night on Day 7 I grabbed for a box of gluten free rice crackers, ate one and threw the box back in the pantry. Bummer part is it didn't taste as good as I had hoped or remembered them to taste.

I'm on the count-down now to Day 11 when I can add meat!! WooHoo. I realized that I've been vegan for the last 8 days. No meat or animal products(milk, cheese, eggs etc) for 8 days. Not that I'm missing it terribly, but I would like a hard boiled egg and a huge piece of cake some time soon.

The bigger victories have to be that I have alot more energy. I'm not feeling spent by mid afternoon. I don't have dark circles under my eyes. I'm sleeping better at night. My hands aren't stiff and hurting. Yesterday I was able to put my wedding ring on!!!!

I've already been thinking ahead to what will happen at the end of this 21 day journey. As much as I'm missing certain foods(all baked goods and coffee, cheese, ice cream) I'm not sure if I'll go back to eating the way I did before.

We will see if the will power holds up on day 22. Keep checking back to find out what happens next.

Saga of a Detox...Day 6

2011-03-30T15:32:00.000-07:00

I had to stop in to the Chiro today and do a little happy dance because the swelling in my hands has gone down considerably. Not enough to get my wedding ring on all the way, but enough that I was dancing about it. WooHoo!

Breakfast: green tea, Complete shake, supplements

Herbal tea, pineapple, water, supplements

Lunch: salad w. lentils and tomato

32oz. water, Complete shake

Dinner: wild brown rice w/ red pepper and onion, arugula salad w/ balsamic dressing.

I'm almost, dare I say it, to the point that I'm not craving things like sugar and salt. Doesn't mean I'm swearing off cake forever. I'm on the hunt for a good gluten free cake mix to celebrate when this whole journey is over.

Are you gluten free? Have any good recipes for cake you want to share?

Saga of a Detox...Day 5

2011-03-30T15:17:00.000-07:00

Food intake
Breakfast: green tea, complete shake, supplements

herbal tea

Lunch: lentil dip(lentils, diced red pepper, diced onion, olive oil. Mixed and baked til warm.) Sliced red peppers, cucumber and celery.

320z. water, supplements

Dinner: wild brown rice stew w/ 1/2 a sweet potato, green beans, cilantro, onion, celery.

Herbal tea, supplements

Feeling pretty good today. The hubs noticed that I seem to have more energy and "look better"...hhhmmmm...I'm taking that as a compliment :)

Saga of a Detox...Day 4

2011-03-29T06:56:00.000-07:00

The hardest thing about this whole detox business is that I still have to cook for four other people in this house. Imagine how fun it was to make waffles and bacon this morning for the kids and not partake!

Day 4 went alot better than day 3 for sure. I didn't feel lethargic or hungry...as in craving anything and everything I'm suppose to be staying away from. Imagine the look on my kids face when we went to Burger King after the zoo and I pulled out a tupperware of salad from home! Woohooo! Not even a french fry grazed my lips :) I even made pizza and cupcakes last night. No licking the spoon or nibbling at the crust.

Day 4 food intake
Breakfast: green tea, complete shake, supplements

32oz. water apple, carrots

Lunch: spinach salad, tomatoes, asparagus, strawberries, carrots, balsamic dressing

32oz. water, supplements

Dinner: lentil soup w/spinach, asparagus, veg. broth, cilantro,

Herbal tea, frozen pineapple

On to Day 5!! 6 more days til meat is back!

Saga of a Detox...Day 3

2011-03-28T04:52:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was officially day 3, but I was in really bad shape by the end of the day so I didn't blog about it. This morning I'll fill you in on what happened.

I was doing pretty good up til lunch. Then I snapped at the hubs because he scoffed and gagged at the lentils I tried to serve him (wrapped in a tortilla w/salsa!!) while mine were pretty much bland with veggies. I was mad and stewed on it for a while.

The day went on. My second Complete shake of the day was pretty gross. And by early evening I was tired, had a horrible headache and crawled into bed at 7:30.

Food Summary for Day 3
Breakfast: green tea, Complete shake, supplements

32oz. water

Lunch: arugula spinach salad with asparagus, tomatoes, balsamic dressing, 1/2 cup lentils

32oz. water, herbal tea

Dinner: sauteed 1/2 cup lentils with olive oil, arugula, green beans, carrots, celery, onion.

more water, herbal tea.

I'm pretty certain I skipped the last two rounds of supplements. I know I willing forewent them at night. I didn't even want to get out of bed. Thankfully I didn't gorge on anything I wasn't suppose to. I have discovered how awesome frozen pineapple tastes when all you really want is a ginormous piece of c-a-k-e! At then end of this detox, I am planning on buying a gluten free cake mix and celebrating!! Care to join me Dr. Heathcote?

Saga of a Detox...Day 2

2011-03-26T17:20:00.000-07:00

I want bread and crackers and cheese!!!!!! Instead I'm cooking lentils that will be used for dinner tonight :(

Breakfast: Complete shake, 10 supplements, green tea, banana

32 oz. water

Lunch: Arugula spinach salad with asparagus, tomatoe and onion. Olive oil, baslamic vinegar, lemon juice dressing. Apple and strawberries. Green tea

32 oz. water, 10 more supplements

Dinner: Lentil soup(1/2 cup lentils, kale, onion. celery cooked in veg. broth), cantalope

Its two hours after dinner and inside I'm screaming for Girl Scout cookies, ice cream, any sort of starchy salty crunchy goodness!!!! Pleeeeaaaassssseee!!!!

Instead I'm having tea. Soon I will choke down my last set of supplements, another Complete shake and cry in my pillow for some sugar. Til tomorrow....

Saga of a Detox...

2011-03-26T06:23:00.000-07:00

Day 1- So I finally bit the bullet and am doing a detox on recommendation by my chiropractor. I thought this would make an interesting on-going topic to blog about. Think you want to hear about what happens to me in the course of 21 days as I rid my body of toxins? I'm not sure I want to either!!

What is it-
The Standard Process Purification Program.

How it works-
I can eat all the fruits and vegetables I want.
I take 30...seriously...30 supplements a day!! I know, crazy right. And don't think I'm not gagging in the kitchen trying to get these horse-pill-sized capsules down.
Green Tea and water...that's it...to drink.
2-3 Complete shakes(outlined in the info link above)
Brown rice and lentils (1/2 cup cooked. Have to laugh here because the info says "measure carefully" hahhaha)
High quality oils(flax, evoo, coconut, grape seed, fish)

Doesn't sound so bad yet does it? Let's talk for a minute about what I can't have. All those delicious wonderful things that I crave each and everyday. Or things that have become part of the daily routine. Or things that are a comfort in the morning while I chat with my husband(COFFEE!!!!) For real! No coffee! Yes, you read it correctly. No coffee for 21 days (insert baby cry here). No alcohol, nuts, seeds, dairy, grains(except brown rice), processed or refined foods. No meat for the first 11 days! Oh dear. I feel a big whine coming on. You know that whine you do the night before final exams because you haven't studied like you should and the test is tomorrow and you know you're not going to pass and its so much easier to whine on the floor. You don't know that whine. I do. Big time.

Why I'm doing this-
I'm 32 years old and I'm sick of feeling tired and achy. I'm sick of crashing mid afternoon after the coffee wears off and all I can think about is what can I eat or drink for a pick-me-up(or is it bedtime yet!). I'm tired of my hands being so swollen that I can't get my wedding ring on...for a couple months now. Its true.

So, now that I've put it out there to the public I guess I'm gonna have to stick to it. And you lucky readers get to hear all about it. The good, the bad and the ugly...or whiny as the case may be. I will also add a review of what I've consumed for the day. If you don't want to read about it, skip it. Otherwise I'm hoping by blogging about this journey, I can hold myself accountable.

Day 1 food intake: was actually yesterday
30 supplements
brown rice
mango, pear, banana
lots of celery
veggies sauteed in evoo and fresh herbs
a pot of green tea
lots and lots o'water.....lots

Anyone else out there detoxing? Wanna talk about it?

Neglectful

2011-03-13T07:27:00.000-07:00

I've been a neglectful blogger lately. Seems so much easier to text, facebook and tweet. How sad that the short snips are taking priority over a long wordy post.

So here's a short worded version of what's happening here.

Kendall's been gone in CA for two weeks "working" - I use quotes here because I find it hard to believe anyone can work from a hotel on the beach in 70 degree weather. Apparently he can. Gotta love that!
I'm working very part-time staging and organizing homes. This has been alot of fun. I seem to pick up a new client every week.
Jennie and Parker both earned their orange striped belt in Kuk Sul Do this week.
We took a road trip to DC to visit my sister.
Parker completed his 8 week dance and deportment class without dying of embarrassment that he had to dance with girls. Such a little cutie!
We attended a local production of Mulan. Very well done by 5-8graders.
Some friends and I have started a traveling "home projects" group. This week: turning an unused 4th bedroom into a new bedroom for a 14 year old. Caulk and paint party at my house!
Our home is going up for sale...again! Let's pray it sells this time.
Jennie is trying her hand at creating a Pivot(animated software program). She apparently loves to listen to The Cranberries while doing this. I can hear her totally singing along!! Awesome!
Kohl is waiting for the snow to be done. He is desperate to get a ball of any kind in his hand and play outside...without snow. He is, however, heading to an indoor waterpark with his buddies today.
Kids of Sudan is going well. We are gearing up for a HUGE fundraiser dinner in the next month. Peter is expected to return to Cleveland March 20th.

They Made It!!

2011-01-29T11:21:00.000-08:00

No words can express my joy when I tell you that 14 children have made it to boarding school!

Go to our site and read more.

If you feel moved to be a sponsor...please email me.

Head Spinning

2011-01-28T06:05:00.000-08:00

Its been a head spinning busy time around here.

I don't know about you, but it feels like non-stop for me.

Most certainly looking forward to the weekend...but wait...that seems busy too!

Go here to see what's been going on with KidsofSudan.

You can also find us on Facebook and Twitter.

32 Things About Me

2010-12-31T06:48:00.000-08:00

Today is my 32nd birthday! So, as part of the celebration...which I like to last all day long...I thought I'd share 32 random things about me.

I was born at 11:55 am
I was born in Missouri
Grew up in SoCal
Met my husband at school in San Diego
Had three babies by the time I was 25
Started drinking coffee when I was 27
Have three tattoos
Use to have body piercings...children and role-model got the better of me!
Love to go on dates with my husband
Love reading to my kids
Love a good girls night out
Over 12 years, I've become a skilled packer/unpacker
I like to craft when I have time....and space
Love a clean home....don't necessarily like to clean it :)
I've become a bit of a p.j. snob
I enjoy helping people whether its organizing their home, cleaning for them, taking over stuff to make their lives easier, etc.
In college, I use to swim in the ocean at night with my roommates! CRAZY!
Today...I would never swim in the ocean at night!
I like to ride my bike around town in the summer
I love to cuddle with my children...
And put my cold feet on Kendall's legs at night ;)
Have a screaming, running fear of bees or any flying insects with stingers...just ask my neighbors!
I will be the first to host a happy hour on my deck. Come on over!
If I could, I'd live in my p.j.s That's how much I love them.
Something about a full fridge and pantry calms my heart and makes me smile.
Something about an empty fridge also makes me smile... like nothing's gone to waste.
I like to cook for people who like to eat...and don't complain.
I won't put candy canes on our Christmas tree - Ever!
I like to read blogs...lots 'o blogs
Started a non-profit this year! Very Exciting!
I will be in my late 30's when my oldest child goes off to college
I am a very very blessed woman!

In the words of my husband "there are alot of I's in this post." Its my birthday. I think that's ok for today.

A Year In Books

2010-12-28T05:11:00.000-08:00

I've got a strange habit. I keep a running log of the books I've read. Do you do this too? I remember starting it one year, when I could not remember what I had read the previous year. Is my memory failing me in my old age? Maybe. Most certainly. There are only so many things a girl can remember on a day to day basis. All the books I've consumed over the past year is not one of them. Hence...the list became necessary. With 2010 almost over, here is what I've read this year. And yes, kid's chapter books count...since I did read them out-loud every night to my babies. I've also included any bible study books. Please forgive me for not adding the links to each book. I did include the author.

Stepping Up - Beth Moore
Anointed, Transformed, Redeemed - Moore, Shirer, Arthur
A Voice In The Wind - Rivers
Echo In The Darkness - Rivers
As Sure As The Dawn - Rivers
The Choice - Gabhart
A Reliable Wife - Goolrick
Indian In The Cupboard - Banks
The Missing - Lewis
The Capture - Lasky
The Journey - Lasky
Hattie Big Sky - Larson
The Promise Of Morning - Shorey
Handle With Care - Picolt
The Help - Stockett
The Red Thread - Hood
The Telling - Lewis
The Secret - Lewis
Blood Of The Prodigal - Gaus
The Hole We're In - Zevin
Year Of Wonders - Brooks
The Centurion's Wife - Bunn/Oke
The Concubine's Daughter - Pai Kit Fai
A Lost Wife's Tale - McGilvary
The Rescue - Lasky
Redeeming Love - Rivers
Just Do It - Brown
Hidden Wives - Avery
A Matter Of Class - Balogh
Sun and Spoon - Henkes
Fields of Grace - Vogel Sawyer
Dangerous Surrender - Kay Warren
The Well and The Mine - Phillips

Wow! 33 this year! I just started What Is The What by Dave Eggars this week. However, it will be on the 2011 list, because I will finish it sometime next week.

So, what have you read this year? Any suggestions for my 2011 list?

The Last Week Of The Year

2010-12-27T05:41:00.000-08:00

Its hard to believe that we are in the last week of 2010. It literally feels like we were just at the New Year's Eve party across the street with all the neighbors. Now here we are...a whole year later. Time is flying by.

So, what has happened in this last year...

Everyone is a year older.
We celebrated our 1st anniversary in our home.
My sister and her family moved closer...only a 6 hour drive away!
Jennie learned to ride a two-wheeler bike.
We tried to sell our house...but God had other plans :)
Visited DC a couple times.
Jennie started full time school.
Kohl moved up to the intermediate school.
The boys started walking to school together.
I became a crossing guard.
Kendall made a job change...and has never been happier!!!
I started a non-profit! www.kidsofsudan.org
Kohl joined a basketball team!
Parker and Jennie earned yellow belts in Kuk Sul Do!
My parents came to visit for two weeks.
We hosted 21 people for Thanksgiving in our little 1890s house...it was fun!
We've spent alot of time with our friends and the families we've come to know from Sudan. We are even learning a little Dinka(tribal language) along the way.

Now in this last week of the year, I'll be taking some time to outline goals for the New Year. We will sit down as a family and come up with goals together and individually. Things we'd like to accomplish as a group and on our own. So, look for another post this week!

What are some of your fond memories/accomplishments from 2010? Now is the time to list them, brag a little...its okay...toot your own horn.

Did you know???

2010-11-30T06:16:00.000-08:00

We've started a non-profit!!!!

Click here to see what we've been up to!!

Internal Quake

2010-11-08T10:38:00.001-08:00

I can't sit still.

37 days til our friend leaves for Sudan.

So much is needed before he goes....

funds, medicines, mosquito nets, prayers, hope....the list is endless.

1 wife, 2 kids 14 nieces and nephews...a chance at survival.

www.kidsofsudan.org

If It Was You...What Would You Do?

2010-10-15T13:34:00.000-07:00

photo credit:google

My heart is breaking for the people of southern Sudan. The people there...and the Sudanese here, some of whom we know personally. All of whom have family still in southern Sudan. All of whom are holding their breath, waiting and praying for freedom, peace, and protection of loved ones in their country

Take a few minutes are read through the links I'm posting. Some are video.

And then ask yourself...If the possibility of war was 90 days away from your home, what would you do? What would you want the people around you to do? What would you want the world to do...to stop it...before it starts?

www.sudanactionnow.com

and this one

and this one

and this one

We have a chance to make a difference. To help those facing this terrible situation. If you would like to help send 18 southern sudanese children to boarding school...give them food, shelter, and safety for the next year...get them out of harm's way before it is upon them and there is no chance...contact me. You can help! We all can!

Where's Your Focus?

2010-10-01T13:15:00.000-07:00

When the children started back to school this Fall, I was filled with some mixed emotions.

What would I do with myself for 6 hours and no one grabbing for my attention?

How many times can you really clean your house in a week?

Would anyone miss me? How much would I miss them?

On and on the questions went. I spent the first few weeks deep cleaning over and over. That got old real fast. Then I went to cleaning and helping at my neighbor's house. There were only so many committees, room mom meetings, library and lunch duties I could sign up for.

Kendall had said to me at one point, find something you love and do it. So, that's what I'm doing. I've decided to give in to where my heart truly lies...helping people. That's it? Yes, that's it.

Recently we've become deeply involved with the Sudanese Lost Boys of Cleveland. We've been somewhat involved for 9 months or so. Just recently much more. Oh the heart breaking stories these men have to tell. The journey they have been on, the suffering they have endured in their early years of life. Then to be relocated to America, the land of opportunity, only to struggle more. Some of these guys have begun to bring their wives and children over. Imagine moving to a country where you know no one, don't speak or understand the language and your husband goes to school and works full time. You sit in a one bedroom apartment with your toddler because you wouldn't know where to go, even if you had a way to get there.

Our heart breaks for these families. And now we help. We tap into the connections we have to find better housing in better neighborhoods. We call upon friends who give gently used clothing and toys, household items and job opportunities. We gather women who are willing and eager to mentor the Sudanese wives. Help them learn English, cook some easy dishes, take them on "field trips" or get them together for playdates. Not alone, but with a community of people who also believe in the importance of reaching out to those in need.

God has called us...all of us... to love our neighbor as ourselves. We are called to take care of the poor, the widows, and the orphans. We are called to give. to help. to love. to be compassionate.

So, the focus has become "what can I do for someone else." When you take your eyes off yourself and focus them on helping another in need, miraculous things happen. You become filled. You want to do more for someone else.

My question is, where's your focus?

New Job

2010-09-22T11:00:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure if I shared with all of you that I have a job!! What! Well, volunteer job really.

Three afternoons a week I'm a crossing guard at the boys' school. Anyone who knows me, knows my passion for safe walking to and from school...especially if you live on our freeway....aaahheemmm...I mean street.

So, every Mon. Tues. and Wed. afternoon I get all gussied up in a fancy neon yellow vest with matching gloves, my very own whistle and a stop sign and help cross the kiddos to their onward destination.

Maybe I'll get one of the boys to snap a picture of me to share with you all. For now...just imagine!

**the hubs passed this site along. thought you'd enjoy!**

So Simple

2010-09-21T13:20:00.000-07:00

I learned a quick tip recently that I thought I'd share. Its one that was so simple, I was surprised I'd never heard of it or thought of it before.

For those of you who don't know...I love to bake. I'd rather bake than cook, that's how much I love it. But alas, a child cannot grow up big and strong on cake alone...or brownies...or cookies for that matter. I bake all Fall, Winter and Spring. Summer, I usually give the oven a vacation. So when I came upon this cake tip I was pleased as punch or puffs...creme puffs!

When icing a cake, Sandra Lee from Semi-Homemade mentions putting a stripe of parchment paper along the edges of your cake plate to keep the icing from getting all over. Duh!! In all my years of cake making, I never had thought of that. Well, I guess you could wipe around your plate with a paper towel(which is what I do), but apparently this is alot easier. So today I gave it a try. And sure enough...much easier and no mess!

Messy icing all over the parchement!

Beautiful cake with no messy icing on the plate

And since we are on the topic of Sandra Lee, let me just say that I'd like to be invited to one of her meals. Not for the food(although that would be great). Her tablescapes are awesome! Mine would be too if I had a staff to get it all laid out for me.

Hhhhmmmm...maybe I should look into a staff. Right after I deposit our millions!

Picture Day

2010-09-21T08:07:00.000-07:00

Its picture day for the two young men in our house. Takes me back to my own school picture days...except I don't make my kids' clothes and part their hair down the middle... Thanks mom!

Here's what the boys looked like as they headed out this morning.

Parker, grade 6. How handsome is he?! Love that he "let" me take this picture this morning. Seems my very presence outside our home is embarrassing him lately. I know its just the beginning...*sigh* One day he'll come back to me and say "I really do love you mom, and you weren't too embarrassing." Right? Right?

Kohl, grade 4. My gentle giant. I love this boy so much. Do I realize how long his hair is? Yes, yes I do. He is so handsome, kind and caring. He had a complete change of clothes under his suit...so he wouldn't have to change clothes in the school restroom! Can't blame him! Those restrooms are gross...especially the boys!

My boys are becoming young men. Excuse me as a tear rolls down my cheek...
And now its gone as I trudge off to clean up after them...still can't seem to put their stuff away. Oh I am praying for their wives already :)

Time Suck In Time Out

2010-09-17T11:44:00.000-07:00

I thought I'd have more "time" on my hands once school got back into session. Not so said the lady who realized what a time-suck her computer can be.

Therefore, I've been very diligent about getting lots and lots of other things done before I sit down to FaceCrack or my blog. I do check my email...while standing up...so it doesn't seem to take me as long!

Will come back to this lovely blog when all my "duties" are taken care of for the day! Until then...please don't delete me from your blogroll!

Thank you!

Catching Up

2010-08-16T05:21:00.000-07:00

So, I slacked on posting with the Summer Marriage Challenge. However I did not slack on complete the challenge each week. Here's what went on the last three weeks.

**Make him a priority. Ask him what his favorite dinner, dessert and drink are. Be sure to serve him all three one night this week. Bonus: cook his favorite dishes all week long!

I try to do this pretty regularly because I know I will here praise from him about the meals I know he likes. Where I usually here complaining from the kids...Kendall always is happy with something I thought he would enjoy. So I prepared pretty much anything you can put into a tortilla! That always makes him happy!

**Support his vision. Discuss his vision for your family. Where does he see your family in 1 year, 5 years, and 10 years. Share with us how you let your husband lead.

I'd like to think I've been doing this all along since the beginning of our marriage. Kendall's always been a visionary. In recent years I've made more of a point of discussing certain topics with him to gain his perspective and guidance, input and final decision on things. I've also followed him around the country several times packing and unpacking our home in search of vision. However, part of letting your husband lead and supporting his vision is to truly be supportive. I think this means standing behind him and not grumbling or complaining to friends and family. This I have not always been good about. I've gotten better over the years. Phrases like "this was your choice" have been said often in the past. Phrases like "we made this choice together" are what I say now. Knowing that your husband is supported and that you take his decisions seriously, as his partner, will only help to strengthen your marriage and commitment to each other.

**R-E-S-P-E-C-T! No complaining, criticizing, rolling your eyes, nagging, or giving him any friction this week. Enjoy a week of peace in your home!

Oh how we as women like to think we are always right and point out flaws in the name of making things better! Amazing how simply body language can convey a huge message. I use to complain ALOT of things like laundry on the floor. It took me a looooong time to just pick it up and move on. Realizing how blessed I am, to NOT have to work and be able to stay home and care for my husband and our family, has put the daily tasks in a new light. Don't misunderstand me...I'm not saying laundry is a favorite thing for me to do. I just look at it differently now. Less eye rolling.

**Kiss Him Like You Mean It (and be sure the door is locked!)

This can often get lost in the grind of daily life and managing of kids. It can also wain after a decade or two or marriage. Rekindling the romance can take effort after years of marriage and being in a comfort zone. We also try to keep a date night at least once a month. Its hard sometimes, but worth it.

Now that the Challenge has come to an end we've been asked to Assess our marriage. Well, we just celebrated 12 years yesterday! I'm so happy to say that its better now than its ever been. Sure we're improving on things all the time. Doing the challenge this summer was a good refreshment for me. A great way to bring my marriage back to the forefront of my thoughts and really make a priority of it. It also made Kendall ask "what's up with all the self improvement?" But, he was glad to see that I was putting him and us first. Some of that weekly challenges were harder than others. But, what a good way to get out of my comfort zone and grow. Overall, the Marriage Challenge was wonderful!

This and That

2010-08-11T05:31:00.000-07:00

Its been busy here. Too busy to blog.

swimming lessons
tennis lessons
lake adventures
bubble making
house cleaning...well, almost
school shopping
backyard camping
summer concerts
date nights
attended a wedding
happy hours with the neighbors
lots of bike riding
lots of dog walking
museum attending

And so much more to do in the next two weeks before school starts!! I'll get back to regular blogging then...

Dear Nature

2010-07-30T05:29:00.000-07:00

*a letter to you from me*

Dear Nature,
While I think you are beautiful and God sure knew what He was doing when He created all of your many wonders, I am not quite sure why you keep creeping around my house in menacing forms. Take for example the mice you have decided to send skittering through my house at random times. Or maybe the gerbil who escaped the other night and grossed my husband out in the wee hours of the morning! I'm also not a huge fan of the TWO raccoons who were hiding out in my garbage cans last Sunday when I went to take the kitchen trash out! Remember the abandoned baby deer that was in the ivy on our hill last summer? We felt so sad that its mother had left it...
And now...now dear Nature...there is an in-ground bee nest in my front yard!! Why? Why are you doing this to me Nature? You know how much I enjoy walking through your forest trails and the grassy fields at the dog park. You know how I love to hear the cardinals and blue jays in the morning on my deck. You also know that I even like seeing the chipmunks and squirrels running around our driveway and yard.
However, thanks to the aforementioned incidents, I am not currently a fan of yours. Maybe if you'd stop sending threatening things to our neck of the woods, I would become a fan of yours again. Until then, not so much.

Sincerely,
Alliwoo

Time In A Bottle

2010-07-16T03:33:00.000-07:00

Quirky little title, I know! Jim Croce is one of my faves so I had to use it.

This week's Marriage Challenge is make a list of 5 things you currently do and ask your husband to prioritize them for you of what is important to him. For example - a clean home, home cooked dinner, coupon clipping, service at church, having friends over for dinner, watching/doing sports with him, etc.

So last night I took a few minutes and I wrote down my list of what I thought my top 5 priorities should be in my day. Here's what it looked like:

1. Happy hearts for our children
2. Clean House
3. Laundry
4. Dinner on the table(or close at least)
5. Self Improvement

I got a bit nervous(because I'd like to think I'm doing a pretty good job around here) and then swallowed it down and started talking to Kendall about it. Like I mentioned in a previous post, one thing I admire about Kendall is that he has always been supportive in everything I do. He's always supported me wanting to be a stay-at-home mom and feels its important as well. I knew he would have some interesting things to say. However, he started listing immediate things that needed to get done, like the harwood floors being refinished in the dining room. I knew I wasn't making my thoughts clear to him, so I said " here's a list of things I feel I should be spending my day doing, but I'd like a list of the things YOU think I should be spending my day doing. What's important to you about how I spend my day and what I get done?"

I was very surprised about his response. He said the one thing that matters most to him....wait....wait for it....is...Self Improvement. He said it would almost make him angry to think that I'm not doing something to better myself from one week to the next. His words to me were "be involved in something you want to do." His long term concern would be that when our children are grown I would be sitting around staring at walls or be miserable with nothing going on. He wants me to fill my day with what makes me happy and keeps me learning. WOW! Things like a class I might want to take, volunteering somewhere(I am going to be a crossing guard three afternoons a week this Fall!) etc.

So, we talked on this at length and I asked him if anything else I had on my list even fell on his radar. Did having a clean home matter to him? Was a hot meal even important? He said he appreciates those things and sees how important they are to me and also how hard I work at them. He said "having dinner on the table isn't as important to me as having all of us sit down together." aaaawwwwwww! Then he said "if we had a messy home because you were out volunteering all day, that would be fine with me." Now, I'm not taking that as my cue to let my house go to shambles in the name of outside service, but how amazing for him to even say that!

Kendall did have a #2 on his list. It was to have the children in bed at a decent time. During the school year this is pretty easy to do. I guess I've been a bit more lax about it during the summer. He said he'd like them in bed by 8:30 when we are home during the week, so he and I can spend time together. How sweet is he!

When was the last time you asked your husband what what was important to him about how YOU spent your time? Maybe you are obsessive about coupon clipping...does that really matter to him? Maybe you spend alot of time doing online surveys in the name of "earning" prizes or extra money...is that a priority for him to have you doing that? Maybe your husband feels staying healthy and in shape is a priority for you...have you asked him? *please read: I said healthy and in shape, not skinny or supermodel thin.*

I encourage you to make your list and then ask your husband to prioritize them and or make a list of his own. You'll be surprised what he says.

I'm linking up to

How Do I love Thee...Let Me Count The Ways

2010-07-13T04:30:00.000-07:00

Alright, so I'm a week behind on the Summer Marriage Challenge. This post should have been done last week and just didn't happen. Bare with me, while this week you may see more than one post on marriage and my husband...because we all know how cool I think he is!

Last week's challenge was to Admire your husband. How long has it been since you've thought of your husband as admirable? What do you admire about your spouse? Make a list of those things that you admire and think on them. Those could be the things that attracted you to him in the first place. They could be qualities that you have grown to love and have seen over the years you've been together.

Here's my list:

He's honest and full of integrity. I can always count on Kendall to tell me the truth. Whether it be what is going on at work or his opinion of what I'm wearing. He will always speak the truth and never lies. His integrity is never a question to anyone who knows him. He never cheats people and is very ethical in all matters.

He's funny! Kendall can make anyone laugh. He walks into a room and just gets people smiling and laughing. When one of our children is feeling low, somehow he always will get a smile on their face. He can find the funny in just about any situation.

He's generous. One thing Kendall believes strongly in is giving. He tries to instill that in our home. We give to others. He always wants to give to those in need. Whether it be money, food, a website to help someone...he gives gives gives.

He's a wonderful Dad! Our children are so happy to see him come home! They greet him warmly at the door because he is a wonderful father to them. He takes time to ask how their day was. He reads scripture to them at the end of every night. He spends quality time with each of them. He shows them that he loves their mom and that's huge in today's culture. He always has a kind word for them. Even when he's had a long day and would rather watch the news and relax, he takes time to be with them, love on them, and show them that he cares for them.

He's a Good Husband! I have been so blessed to be married to this man! He is kind and gentle. He's honest with me. He encourages me in anything I attempt. He provides without fail. He's faithful. He holds me accountable. He's amazing!

He dares to Dream! I admire that fact that he dreams. He's not okay with status quo. He is always stretching, reaching, learning and improving. He dreams big for our family and his career. He has the courage to step out of the box and try things that others might not. He is always working to improve himself and our family.

He believes in God. He teaches our children about God's word and how to show Christ to others through our actions.

God sure knew what He was doing when He brought us together. Kendall is the perfect spouse for me. Kendall challenges me to be a better person, to try harder and give more. He loves me and our children. He has taught me how to laugh! He amazes me continually.

Now its your turn! What do you admire about your husband? Take some time to blog about it or write it down. Then share it with your husband.

Homemade or Store Bought?

2010-07-01T05:07:00.000-07:00

When I was a kid, my sister and I enjoyed many a Popsicle in the backyard on hot summer days in sunny CA. My favorite was the Big Stick. Anyone remember those? As a child I remember peeling off the wrapper and it seemed that marbled yellow, orange and red icy treat was almost as tall as I was!

Now that I'm a parent I see the same simple pleasure in my children's eyes when they sit on our deck and enjoy their frosty goodness in whatever Popsicles we have.

At one point I thought I'd be creative and thrifty and try to make my own Popsicles. What a disaster. They would never turn out nicely. The sticks would come out but not the treat. The kids would take them outside and the plastic sticks would disappear. The molds were cheap and would crack or warp. On and on the saga goes...

Today I came across this little number during my web surfing.

photo courtesy of William Sonoma site

Isn't it beautiful! I watched the 6 minute demo video and it seems so brilliant. It works like an ice cream maker with a frozen core that makes your Popsicles in minutes...literally! At least that's what the video says. So let's do a pros and cons list shall we?

Pros:

looks cool
homemade treats, you know exactly what's in your Popsicles
makes them 'fresh' in minutes

Cons:

only makes 3 at a time
$49.95 price tag
delayed frozen goodness gratification

So, if you were to choose a homemade Popsicle making experience would it be this

photo courtesy of Toy Report

or something like the Zoku? Maybe you prefer buying them by the box like I do. Maybe you go for the bag o' 24 twin pops that can be split in two and shared among friends and neighbors. How's that for thrifty?! What's your Popsicle fancy? Do tell!

Prayer is Powerful

2010-06-30T08:17:00.000-07:00

photo credit here

How often as a believer in Jesus do you pray? Daily? Weekly? Hourly?

How often do you pray for your husband? This has been on the forefront of my thoughts this week as I continue the Summer Marriage Challenge. I pray for my husband quite regularly. Sending up petitions to God for things I've gleaned from our conversations or things I know are going on at work or struggles at home. I can't imagine being the head of a home. The leader of a family. How would it feel to have four sets of eyes looking to you? Depending on you? Our husbands need all the prayers they can get.

So, yesterday morning I asked before he left for work..."what can I pray about for you today?" He laughed and said "for the speeders on our street to stop!" And off he went. Amazingly, the speed tracker trailer showed up in the neighbor's driveway this morning. God has a sense of humor I tell ya! Last night he shared a heart felt request. I feel so honored that my husband would bring something weighing so heavy on his heart and ask me to pray for it.

Here are just a few of the items that I ask God for when I am praying for my husband:

peace at work and home
protection during travels when he is away from us
affirmation of his efforts as the provider of our family
encouragement that he is on the right path for his career
affirmation of his talents
an overwhelming sense that we appreciate him and all he does for us
joy
contentment
for God to show me ways to be my husband's helper in all things

How are you praying for your husband?

For Better or Worse

2010-06-28T05:05:00.000-07:00

On a warm balmy August day in Coronado CA we were joined in holy matrimony.

I was 19!! WHAT! I know! I thought I had it all figured out and knew what I was getting myself into. Boy, was I wrong. For those of you who don't know us...Kendall is 7 years ahead of me in life. He knew what he wanted and had been around this world alot longer than I had. However, being the first born...I was a bit head strong and slightly stubborn and thought I had it all under control. My control. God had other plans though.

Our wedding ceremony was beautiful. It was held at a small church in Coronado. We had 60 guests in attendance. I was nervous and Kendall was all smiles. I remember asking my dad to walk slowly when we started down the aisle. I wanted to savor that moment. That last walk as a single girl being taken to her soon-to-be husband. The light in Kendall's eyes was so bright. The smile on Kendall's face so big!

Our vows were traditional. Nothing we wrote ourselves. As a girl of 19, I sure didn't know what all they would entail. Things like:

Eph 5: 22-24 Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord. 23 For the husband is the head of the wife even as Christ is the head of the church, his body, and is himself its Savior. 24 Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit in everything to their husbands.

Eph 5:33 However, let each one of you love his wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband.

It has taken me almost 12 years and lots of growing up to feel like I understand what God was saying when He authored those verses.

Our ceremony, like our dating, was short and sweet. Having a small amount of guests afforded us the opportunity to visit with everyone who attended. We were the last ones to leave our reception!

Thank you Kendall for a wonderful wedding day! Thank you for putting up with me for this long. I walk past our wedding album daily and smile on it with fondness. What a fabulous day it was!

This is Cool!!

2010-06-20T14:48:00.001-07:00

Saw this little energy saver and had to share.

If you have air conditioning, you should really look into it!

Dating Days

2010-06-20T05:56:00.000-07:00

Our dating days were short and sweet.

We actually met for the first time outside of the student apartments on campus when I needed change for a dollar, so I could wash clothes. Kendall had long hair, a flannel shirt, multiple piercings, and collar-length blond hair, that was covered by a red bandanna. A real "bad boy" look. Really!

After Christmas break, a friend of mine wanted to introduce me to this guy she'd been seeing. There he was again. However this time he was clean-cut, in slacks and a button down shirt, no piercings, and wearing glasses. Really! I thought "who's this old guys?" He's only 7 years older than I am.

In February, another friend of mine came up to me in the computer lab and said "Kendall's looking for you" Who? I looked out the door and he was standing in the hall, waiting. Oh, him. So, I went out and said hello. He asked me to coffee(which I did not drink at the time) with him and my friend. Apparently he and my other friend were not seeing each other any longer.

Friday night coffee turned into Saturday at Julian where we fed the ducks on the lake and had apple pie, which turned into Saturday night dinner at Kemo Sabe, dessert at Extraordinary Desserts, and a drive out to the Hotel Del Coronado...where we had our first kiss! Saturday turned into Sunday at the movies. On Monday he sent me flowers from Florastyle and I called "just to say hi."

We spent alot of lunches at Old Venice in between classes and alot of time at the Fashion Valley Mall window shopping and people watching. School ended and I moved home for the summer.

One warm night in late May, I was surprised in the Carrows parking lot, where I was waiting tables, by an unexpected visit where Kendall proposed! My family had come in for dessert and they were in on the whole thing!

We were married 3 months later August 15th in Coronado. We had our reception at Old Venice, our cake was done by Extraordinary Desserts, our flowers by Florastyle and our first night was spent at The Hotel Del Coronado.

3 children, 1 dog and several moves later....we will celebrate 12 years this August! Amazing!

I'm In!

2010-06-16T10:47:00.000-07:00

I came across this blog from a friend's site and knew it was something I would add to my "must reads."

If you're looking for something to challenge yourself and your marriage, I believe this is a good place to start.

I'm participating in the challenge this summer. So, if you seem to notice a flow of marriage posts...you'll know why.

Hope you join in as well!

Sports

2010-06-14T05:10:00.000-07:00

image courtesy of NBA Today

I wouldn't necessarily call myself a sports "fan." I do like the big games...Superbowl, World Series and NBA Finals.

However, I have a darling boy who l-o-v-e-s watching sports. Any sport. Literally. He'll record them all as well. So, in an effort to find a common ground and something we can spend time doing together, I guess I've become a "sports fan." Right now we are in the midst of the NBA Finals. Anyone who follows basketball knows that the Cavs(go cavs!! hey I'm in Cleveland what do expect) were in the semi-finals and got the boot by the Boston Celtics. Now the final two are Lakers/Celtics. And we haven't missed a game.

Since I've been spending time watching these pro athletes get paid to do what they love, I've had some time to also watch some rather interesting habits that these players have on the court. Interesting, strange, gross, ritualistic habits. Let's discuss a few shall we?

*Pre game to-dos - there's always some funny dancing around and body slamming that happens when the starting line up is being announced. High fives, head rubs and what not. LeBron James always walks to the table between the two teams, douses his hands with powder and throws it high into the air. Always.

*Licking the fingers - anyone else find it gross that some players lick their finger tips during the game? I mean c'mon! 15+ people have touched that ball and others are licking their fingers too and then touching the ball! G-R-O-S-S!!

*Flicking the mouth guard - there's a lot of tongue action that happens with the mouth guards. Forcing them out like dentures, biting, displacing, etc. I guess a mouth guard would get annoying after a while. One player actually drops his into his jersey during free throws and time outs! eeewwwww!!

*Free throw rituals - this has got to be the most interesting of all the oddities. Each player has a certain routine he does before making a free throw. One player will bounce the ball 6 times in a row and then spin it in his hands three times before shooting. Rojon Rondo places his feet just so, bends from the waist down grabbing the back of his legs and then straightens up before shooting. Funny thing is...each player has his own ritual! No matter what it is, they all have some thing they do. And they do it every. single. time.

Anyone else out there pick up on pro athlete oddities? Please, do tell!

Schhhoooollllls Out For...

2010-06-10T06:23:00.000-07:00

Summer! Yes, my son came home from his last day of school went immediately to the Wii and banged out "School's Out For Summer" a good dozen times on Guitar Hero!

Boy, were we ready for school to be over. I always love the end of the school year. That renewed sense of excitement the children have over being home and having nothing to do. We all know it lasts a whole two days before the "I'm bored" and fighting sets in...right? Right!

This year we had a last day bbq with our neighbors and friends. It was a wonderful time! Our house is situated just right that the yards on either side of us open into ours. So, our deck was the central location with all the food and beverages, one yard had a bouncy house and the other had the swing set and sand table. At some point the kids started to fill up water balloons. All of us moms relaxed on the deck eating and drinking pretty much til our husbands were home from work....the party started at 1:30! I think a new tradition was born that day!

And now the work begins (for me at least) as yes, the fighting and "I'm bored" started literally yesterday...only one day after school was out! **sigh** I didn't have anything significant on our calendar for the first week and a half, however someone got signed up right quick for a basketball camp that starts on Monday. Someone else has been rsvp'd to two birthday parties. I will also be busting out the "busy boxes" here any day. I really didn't want to start the push on that just yet, but it looks like my hand will be forced!

Now I'm off to get this house ready to show....which by the way, its still For Sale! Crazy? Yes! If anyone wants to see what its like around here with three children and a dog during summer vacation while you're trying to get a home show ready...stop by. I won't promise sanity. I might pour you a glass of lemonade and put you to work! Ha!

Blossom Time

2010-05-31T04:33:00.000-07:00

For my out-of-town readers, Memorial Day weekend is fondly referred to as "Blossom Time" here in Chagrin. Its a fun filled weekend that includes hot air balloons, a small scale carnival/fair, class reunions,parades, marathon runs, etc. etc.

Last Spring when we first moved into our home, my neighbor asked if we had been here during Blossom yet. I said no, that it would be our first time. She went on to tell me how much fun it was with all the activities and what not. Then said at her house its often a balance between the "joy and pain of Blossom." I didn't quite get it. But now I do!

The Joy
Here's the run down. 6 days left to school and the carnival's in town. We have a four day weekend and all the time in the world on our hands. This 30 something mama doesn't do fly-by-night carnival rides as well as she use too, but for the love of my kids, will get on a few to show them they aren't that scary and I do in fact love them(the kids) enough to get on the rickety rides. So, with money in hand we head down to the fair, purchase the ride-all-you-want wristbands and head in to the sweltering 84 degree 96% humid afternoon for some "fun." I've got one child who loves all the rides, one who is a bit skeptical of most of them, and one who is a bit vertically challenged to ride them alone without an adult....meaning I must ride(or send my lovely sister to ride with her. Thank goodness Auntie was in town!)

A few hours into the day everyone is hot and tired and hungry and feeling a bit sick from one to many spins on the Grav-i-tron. They all want to eat at the fair, but since we live within walking distance we head home because I'm not paying $25 for hot dogs and lemonade that we can have at home for free! So up the hill we walk.

After we eat all the children are raring to go, but the adults would like to throw up and take a nap. But because we love our children and want them to have good childhood memories, we head back down to the fair for a few more hours.

The Pain
This is what I hear for the next few hours...
" I wanna go on this ride but no one will go with me!" "Cotton candy! I want cotton candy!" "You said we could play some games!" "I wanna play games!" "Gimme some money for one more game!" "Gimme some cotton candy!" "Gimme a prize!" Gimme Gimme Gimme Gimme Gimme Gimme gimme gimme gimme gimme gimme!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! And so it goes until this 30 something mama can't take anymore, packs them all up, drags them back up the hill and home for a bath, dinner and bed.

Then next morning all they can say is how much fun they had at Blossom!

That's all that really matters right?

Silly Bandz

2010-05-27T08:23:00.000-07:00

We have them and our elementary K-3 school banned them last week for similar reasons.

Check out this article.

Just a bummer that we...meaning me and my children spent money on them. The kids aren't showing an interest in them anymore. They've been sitting on their desks for over a week now.

T -Minus 9 Days And Counting

2010-05-24T15:25:00.000-07:00

Its only 9 days til school's out and I'm already racking my brain with things to get put on the calendar. Here's what we're looking at thus far...

Swimming and Tennis lessons
VBS
Water Park
Camping in the back yard
Camping with friends
Weekend trip to Cincinnati (why? because we've never been there)
Football Hall of Fame
Natural History Museum $5 after 5pm on Wednesdays!
Free Movie Wednesdays at the local theatre
Search out some skate parks
National Zoo in DC

I'm also adding a new thing this summer. Its called the "busy box." I'm sure you're bursting with curiosity, so I won't delay the details.
Three children. Three separate boxes. Each box filled with age/grade level appropriate activities to be completed on their own. What could you put in these boxes? The possibilities are endless really...

flashcards
workbooks
sketch pads
colored pencils/markers
chapter books/story books (any required reading for the coming school year)
models
Lego kits
knitting
macrame (does anyone still do that?)
paint-by-number

And so, the construction will begin on the 'busy boxes' and the calendar will become filled with things to do and places to go. And before I know it, summer will be drawing to a close and school starting again! Wait...we're not even out yet!

Media?

2010-04-28T16:07:00.000-07:00

Some of you may or may not know this, but we don't do media in our home during the school week.

WHAT!!!!

I know shocking, right!

Well, let me tell you how this came about. Three years ago I started to notice this horrible habit had set in. FIGHTING after school about getting homework done. You mean you've never dealt with this in your home...riiiiiiigggghhhtttt!!

It was a battle about when to turn off the tv and get the homework started and how long could they watch and what could they watch and blah blah blah. I was fed up!

Upon moving to lovely Cleveland, I thought we'd start something "new." **insert big eye-roll from the hubs here** He "always" loves when I try something new. But, try we did and we've never gone back.

Here was the plan. For one week there would be no tv, video games or computers (I should throw in...for the children outside of school required computer homework...or while the children were still up...because we all know how much I looooove HGTV) during on school days. So to clarify, none zip zero zilch television, video games or computer "fun" Monday through Thursday. My husband thought I was crazy and would cave in two days.

It was rough for the first few days. Then it got a bit easier. The kids didn't ask for it and I wasn't screaming at them to get homework done! Yes, I just admitted to screaming at my children...it happens. I'm not perfect.

By week two we were in great pattern of peaceful bliss. There was still the begrudging battles of homework, but the children were actually playing with eachother and getting creative with their entertainment. They were playing with toys that had been sitting for months unused. We were all interacting nicely together. We've never gone back!

I must tell you though, they do get the occasional tv break during the week. VERY OCCASIONAL. Like when there's a Cavs game on or during the winter Olympics, we would watch an event a night. But its limited. And its ok.

By the way, my children are 11, 9 and 5 so I know at some point this may not last. Like when all their friends are playing Xbox live and they want to get on after school some afternoon. I'd like to think that day will never come! But I'm not kidding myself. We'll cross that bridge when we come to it. But for now, this is working for us.

So, tell me, how is the media played out in your home? Are your kids glued to the screens? Or do you limit screen time? Maybe you don't even own a tv or allow your children on the computer. I have a few friends who live like that! Spill it! I want to know!

Super Excited

2010-04-19T08:50:00.000-07:00

I was literally jumping out of my seat in the theater this weekend when this preview came on!!!

The kids and I just started reading through the series. I would totally recommend it to anyone!

The World of Real Estate

2010-04-18T04:26:00.000-07:00

photo credit here

Its a crazy uncertain thing when one puts their house on the market. Essentially you are saying "please come into my home, look at all my stuff, how I've decorated and judge me!"

No, you don't feel that way? Well, put your house up for sale and get back to me after a few showings. *tangent, sorry*

Now that its been well over two months since the sign went up, I've become pretty good at detaching from my beloved home and not taking the feedback personally. For example, one looker said "the kitchen was too small" another said "lack of a garage was a big deal for them." These are two things we can't or won't do anything about in order to sell this house. If we renovate the kitchen...we're going to stay and enjoy it! But, you see my point.

Well, I got the the call on Thursday night that someone wanted to come look-see on Saturday morning from 11-12. Thank you for the advance notice! And for those of you that don't know, most showings book for an hour so that if they are running late they can come anytime in that hour and look around. Bummer part is, if the come right at the top of the hour and stay for 10 minutes I'm stuck driving around for 50 minutes wondering if they've showed up yet. That's why I usually have my neighbors on the look-out and then text me when said potential buyer has vacated. Smart...I know!

So, Saturday morning arrives and its time to start tidying up...getting this place "show ready". All the lights on, candles lit, dirty clothes safely hid, toilets scrubbed, 3 kids and dog packed up and vacated...the works! We leave and we figure we'll stay out for a few hours, make a day of it. Upon our return I immediately notice that all the lights are still on. This bugs me because I have strategically placed signs around the house asking for ALL the lights to be turned off(remember we stayed out for a few hours?!). How can you miss the one that's on the back of the front door?? You see it as you are about to exit the home! Plus, its my little indicator from the street that said potential buyer has come and gone. Also, the front door is unlocked(had it been locked would have been a sure indicator that they were there). And no agent business card has been left. Again, another indicator that they were here and they were ligit...not some crazy person wandering through our home.

Two things occur to me 1)no one showed up! 2) they did show up and didn't do what they were suppose too! Either way, I'm a bit peeved by now.

Where am I going with this rant you are wondering? I'm glad you're so curious! Do realtors understand what a big deal it is to get a house ready to show? Do they take into consideration that the seller has young children, a big dog and its a feat to make it look awesome and get out on time?

How rude if you don't show up! Or if you do show up...how rude that you didn't turn out the lights, blow out the candles and lock the door! My house could have burned down, been pillaged. and dollars added to my electric bill! Maybe that's my fault. Maybe next time it won't be all cozy and warm with candles. Maybe next time I'll leave some dirty socks on the floor and dishes in the sink.

Okay, I'm done!

Home

2010-04-15T10:54:00.000-07:00

I looked up the definition of "home" this afternoon. There were several things relating to where a family lives, where something is from and where things are kept. The definition I liked most is as follows -

Home- a place where something flourishes, is most typically found, or from which it
originates.

What a wonderful definition of the place where we rest our head every night. I immediately thought of my 3 beautiful children when I read "where something flourishes." And that's as it should be. Our home should be a place of growth, cultivating and flourishing for all who live and enter it. A place where one is nurtured and encouraged to grow in character, creativity, talent, independence, and responsibility.

I often find myself caught up in the routine of day-to-day life and forget how unimportant a clean kitchen, folded laundry, and made beds are in the grand design of my job as a mother...a "gardener of the home" the "tender of things that flourish" within our dwelling. Fortunately, every night I'm brought back to that place of meaning. When the children and I meet up for our evening story time and biblical devotions, I am reminded that in those moments of fun and play and work and laughter and learning that my tender garden of three are flourishing into amazing beautiful people in this world. And I myself, flourish a little more each day right along with them. For I truly believe, they have taught me more about the things that are important in the flourishing of our daily lives.

Where's My Cape?

2010-04-14T13:42:00.000-07:00

God in His infinite wisdom and goodness will never give me more than I can handle.

Now, where's that superwoman cape when I need it?

Off to slay the dinner dragon, set the stage for the home-showing at 6:30pm, and snuggle my 3 precious angels...and steal a kiss from my handsome lover, when he finally gets here!

My Shadow

2010-04-13T06:50:00.000-07:00

I've recently discovered that I have a new shadow. How can that be? I'm glad you asked.

This new shadow seems to be shorter in stature and has a bit of gurth on it. It also has a long wagging tail and a pointed nose Four legs and no arms. This doesn't sound like me, you're thinking...you're right! Its my dog.

How can it be a new shadow you're wondering. You've had this dog for 5 years, you say. Yes! I know! He's just recently, in the last few months, decided he can't live without me being in the room! He follows me E-V-E-R-Y-W-H-E-R-E! When I get up, he gets up. I can't go into the bathroom without him trying to poke his nose in the door. He sits a whines outside the door til I come back to him. I call him my fourth child (although he doesn't talk back, complain about what's for dinner and I can leave him home alone for hours at a time...things that don't happen with my human babies).

So, if you see me and my shadow give a wave or a honk. He loves the attention. And NO he's not a pitbull. A common "comment" I get from people who apprehensively come upon us while we are out and about.

MIA??

2010-04-12T07:17:00.000-07:00

Not really. While spring break spilled into Easter weekend and then the weather turned nice...I guess the 'ol blog got put on the back burner for a few days. Things happen. What can I say.

We had a beautiful Easter with my sister and her lovely family. I am thrilled that they are a 5 hour drive close and that we have seen them twice since their move to VA! We spent the weekend walking around town, out at the gym, and just laughing and having a good visit. The men folk installed a new post with our cast-iron bell atop and address plaque. My talented sister gave the neighbor a hair cut with a pair of craft scissors. Let's just say you know you're a skilled hair dresser when you can cut someone's hair with anything...other than your actual shears. I was impressed and so was Ann. Her hair turned out awesome!

Easter Sunday was spent at church. After the service we came home and the kids colored eggs while Kendall hid plastic candy filled ones outside. Its always fun to hunt for them after Kendall has hid them...we are usually looking for that last one or two that no one can find...because I of course think it should be fair and everyone gets an equal amount of eggs. So, when you find 10 you're done...however that means we are all looking for the last few for that one person who doesn't have 10. Oh well. We then had a nice lunch, talked with my parents on the phone, and before I knew it, it was time to for them to head home to VA.

Now that the weather's been nice, I'm feeling the need to spruce up our yard and flower beds. Is it the gardening bug or the "fair" rating we got on curb appeal from a potential buyer? Not sure, but either way I spent a good portion of this weekend weeding, pulling up dead grass and ivy(its amazing how fast dog pee can kill grass!!) and putting in new flowers. I'm trying to enlist my neighbor to come up with a landscape plan for me. Her yard is G-O-R-G-E-O-U-S! She's also lived in her home for several years, so I'm not holding my breath that my yard will look like hers overnight. *sigh*

And as many of you know, the house is up FOR SALE which means I've been a pyscho crazy person about keeping it clean...especially on the days we get a call for a showing. We use to have a 6 hour notice requirement for showings(I've got three kids and a dog...miracles happen but not by my doing), but recently heard that people were being declined because they wanted to get in right away. So, the realtor removed the 6 hour advance notice and now people can come within an hour if they want. Nothing like putting on the pressure. So, if you happen to stop in for coffee...don't be intimidated and think I keep a perfect house. Its only because there's a big fat FOR SALE sign stuck in my yard. Trust me, wouldn't I love to not do laundry and stop picking up after everyone? OF COURSE!

Hey, leave me a comment about what you're planting in your flower beds or what plant you can't wait to see coming in this spring/summer. I'm needing some inspiration peeps!

Spring Break

2010-03-29T05:11:00.000-07:00

As my babies get older, I find that I enjoy school vacations much more. Maybe the children are more fun to do things with. Maybe its because they are actually starting to sleep in on the off days. Maybe its because they appreciate the vacation day as well.

We started off our Spring Break with an overnight to the Great Wolf Lodge. The kids and I had a blast. We always do at places like that...amusement park type places. I'm the type who likes to get there when it opens and stays til it closes. The Hubs...not so much. I think he had a restful time enjoying the peace and quite of the hotel room, lounging by the slides seeing the smiles
on his children's faces and just kinda breakin' up the monotony of everyday. I hope :)

My review of Great Wolf:

Full for all ages
Reasonably priced
Really liked that we could bring our own food and every room had a microwave and fridge
It wasn't too overwhelmingly large of a place. The kids ran off in the water park and the Hubs and I were able to relax and converse with one another
Clean and well kept
Friendly, accomadating staff
One night was just enough. Thinking two nights would have been too much for the size of the place

So, if you have a Great Wolf Lodge near you, take a trip and check it out. Ours was an hour and a half away. Just enough to make it feel like we were actually going somewhere with out the screaming and fighting that ensues upon a longer road trip.

Anyone else been? What are your reviews?

Fridays, Spring and Snow?

2010-03-26T04:01:00.000-07:00

Its Friday morning and I've been up for over an hour. The house is still quite. Its the last day of the school week...the last day of schedules and lunch making and routine before Spring Break!

Thankful For: Our beautiful home. I simply love our home. Its cozy.

Listening To: The click click of the keyboard keys as I type away and a little chirp chirping coming from just outside the window....ahhhh Spring is here!

What's For Dinner: Anything I don't have to go to the store for!

Missing: The green grass and blue sky. What? Yes, we got snow yesterday and its stayed all through the night. I'm ready for winter to truly be over and spring to really be here for good!

Looking Forward To: Our little weekend getaway to Hot Springs VA with the kidddos.

Happy Weekend to you all!

Support Local- Part 2

2010-03-23T05:36:00.000-07:00

Another great way to support our local community is to join The Rec this summer!

There's so much hype about the new fitness centers that have opened and seem to be drawing a huge clientele...us included. However, we will be joining the Rec for the summer as well.

Why?

Its local. You can't beat a 2 minutes drive or 5 minute walk to the local pool!
Its nice to see lots of familiar faces!
I feel safe with my kids there...checking in with me at the pool and them heading off to the tennis courts or inside to ping-pong and back to checking in with me at the pool.
Its local! Keep it going by being a member this summer!
It kinda feels like family. Meaning you know what to expect when you're there, in a grandma on the couch, crazy uncle running around the pool, wild nieces and nephews with lots of smiles and laughs kinda way.
There are new classes being offered this summer!
Its a great way for you to get involved on a small level...plenty of volunteer opportunities.
Its local! You can bike or walk...especially if you live in town.

So, don't forget to join the Rec this summer! Support your community and have fun while doing it!

Support Local

2010-03-09T05:23:00.000-08:00

One thing I love about our small community is that it seems simple to support all things local and feel like it really makes a difference.

Take a minute to check out this local author!! Her book was just released this month and is a great read. Its engaging and "clean" for a young adult novel. A page- turner for sure. I think its especially cool that our children are in kindergarten together and we hang out every now and then! So, when her book is made into a movie...I can say I knew her before the rest of the world did! And the best part is...she's got three more books coming out!

While you're on the local scene, pop into Fireside and buy her book. You may have to ask the owner to order it for you... I did...because for some reason he needs some prodding when it comes to supporting locally(maybe with enough demand, he'll order a bunch of them). But if you ask, he will order it.

And next time you're out, look for Mara and she'll sign your copy of Tagged. How cool is that!

Who's The Blog Slacker Now?

2010-03-05T04:26:00.000-08:00

Its been quite a week around here with NO SNOW in sight! I guess that's why I haven't been in front of the computer numerous times a day.

Friday....

Thankful For: Sun! Oh beautiful sun how I've missed you...

Listening To: Jennie counting out her addition problems and the boys going on in the kitchen in the "boy voice" they do when they are being silly with each other. Always makes me smile!

What's For Dinner: We're going out tonight!

Looking Forward To: Being able to see my sister more often. Her and her adorable family just moved to VA! Only 6 hours from us! (insert happy dance here)

Missing: a housekeeper....are we all missing that? If you're not...add it to the top of your "thankful list!"

Have a wonderfully sunny weekend!

A Shout Out To Single Moms

2010-02-27T04:38:00.000-08:00

When the hubs was out of town for the last week, I'd like to think I experienced "single motherhood" for seven days. Maybe on some level I did. But not completely. All the duties were left to me...cooking, cleaning, getting the children off to school and home, homework, discipline, entertainment, extra activities, etc. And at the end of the night, when I was exhausted I would sit on the couch by myself and gorge on T.V. Not saying that's what single moms do...its just what I chose to do.

The one thing I did not have to worry about was going to work. That's where it was different. Although my hubs was out of town and I was left to take care of everything...that was the one thing I wasn't left to take care of. That's a big deal!

So, here's to you single moms! A big Hoorah, a round of applause, a standing ovation! Because when all the nitty gritty details of the day are done, you still have to go to work and come home and do it all over again. You have a tough job...tougher than mine. I commend you.

Neighbors

2010-02-23T18:55:00.000-08:00

I looked up the word neighbor, and here's what I found.

a person or place in relation to others near or next to it.
any person in need of one's help or kindness.

I must say that I've been blessed with thee best neighbors ever!

We hang out every morning at the bus stop. We pop in on eachother for a random visit.

And when they see that my sanity hangs by a thread because my husband has been out of town for a week...they arrange an improptu happy hour to pull me through!

Love thy neighbor...do you love yours?

Just Another Manic Monday

2010-02-22T03:56:00.000-08:00

Except really its not! Yipee! I've got n-o-t-h-i-n-g on my calendar for today.

The house is still clean from the Open House that was held yesterday (tangent: if you live around here and are looking for a super cute house to buy in the village...come see ours!)

*Gasp* The laundry is ALL DONE!!!

No volunteering or church activities.

Maybe I'll bust out my sewing machine and get creative! I want to make some of these.

What's on your Monday schedule?

Oh For The Love Of Saturday

2010-02-20T06:37:00.000-08:00

photo credit here

If you haven't picked a favorite morning of the week, you should.

Mine is Saturday, for obvious reasons.

Pajamas til 10!
Finishing a cup-o-joe while its hot!
No lunches to pack!
No rushing out to meet the bus in frigid temps!
Bacon!
French toast!

Best of all...the general sense of calm and laziness that ensues from the knowledge that there's no where to go and nothing pressing to do!

Welcome Saturday morning! I've missed you all week!

What's you're fave morning and why?

How Do You Spell Happy?

2010-02-19T15:30:00.000-08:00

F-I-E-S-T-A

These arrived at my home today! Thanks to my wonderful friend who also happens to be my neighbor, I was given some awesome, colorful additions to my growing collection of dishes. We live just over an hour to the Fiesta Factory! The deal is, she brings me back pieces and I help her with her house...paint a room, organize some cupboards or purge her basement. Barter deal. Love it.

Aren't they beautiful? I think so!

How do you spell happy? Leave me a comment and let me know what puts a smile on your face.

Grey Or Gray?

2010-02-18T13:20:00.000-08:00

When its the color you are seeing in the sky most often...who really cares how its spelled?

Anyone else wishin' and hopin' and thinkin' and prayin' for S-P-R-I-N-G?

What's the first thing you all will do when its sunny and above 45 degrees?

Me? Don some flip flops and shades and walk my dog without practically killing myself trying to climb over snow mounds on the sidewalks!

Yes, that's right I'm talking to all you people who don't or won't shovel your walks! SOME people actually try to walk around our quaint town in the winter. I'd like to live to see the coming of Spring!

p.s.- while I may not shovel mine as diligently as I should(every few days or so), at least I have a RAD neighbor who blows it for me when she sees that I've lagged behind. And we live on a narrow road that the plow continually dumps from the road back onto our walks. Thanks RAD neighbor - you know who you are!

3 Products and 1 Tool

2010-02-17T13:08:00.000-08:00

This is what it took to encompass my oral hygiene maintanance this morning!

Really? 3 products! When did brushing your teeth involve three products? Apparently in a scheme to make a little extra coin, the oral hygiene companies have developed a "before you brush" rinse to be followed by the appropriate whitening, sensitive, breath control, 12 protection toothpaste...then to be finished off by the "after you brush" rinse that provides 24 hour protection. Protection from what? Protection from your bad breath coming back? I'd like to know.

Anyone else using the 3 product program to get your pearly whites....white?

The Time Has Come...

2010-02-15T06:24:00.000-08:00

Allison Wouters
Getting Your To-Do List Done!

Home Consultant specializing in interior redesign,
home organization, and over all home presentation.

Need a room painted? Not a problem!

Not sure how to change the flow of a room in your
home? I can help!

Sometimes it takes an outside eye and a helping
hand to get things done.

Email me today to schedule your appointment!

email: alliwoo@yahoo.com

Fees: $15/hr

A Rose By Any Other Name

2010-02-14T05:06:00.000-08:00

Here are the debut of February's Budget Blooms! You will recall from this post, that January's blooms lasted well over a month which would explain why February's weren't purchased until yesterday. My lover was with me when this bouquet was bought...and he tends to add to the budget when we shop together...making them a bit more lovely than I would have. These beauties were bought at WalMart for $10.

Wanting to spread the wealth around our home, I divided them up among four vessels. When arranging flowers, keep in mind you can choose any container that strikes your fancy and holds water. I picked two bud vases and two mason jars. I luuuuvve mason jars! I use them for candle holders, utensil caddies, crayon corrals, flower vases, etc.

Now we have four bouquets sprinkled throughout the house. Practically everywhere I look, I see fresh flowers! Keeps Spring on the forefront of my thoughts!

Have you decided to budget in some blooms for your home? If so, do tell. Where have you purchased your flowers? What were they?

Happy Valentines Day!

Are You Ready?

2010-02-12T11:39:00.000-08:00

I know I am!

Ready for a little of this..

(photo credit here)

And some of this...

(photo credit here)

And maybe one or two of these...

(photo credit here)

Instead I'm looking at this...

(photo credit here)

Summer can't get here soon enough!

And So It Begins...

2010-02-11T06:31:00.000-08:00

Our home is officially for sale! You can see it here.

We've been through this before when we sold our home in Lynden, WA. Its such an emotional ride. The waiting. The calling of people to schedule a showing or cancel. The cleaning. The constant cleaning. Did I mention the cleaning? I did? You're right. I just did.

Those of you who know us are probably thinking "you just bought your home last Spring right?" Yes, you are right. Then why sell? I'm glad you asked. Upon buying this house we knew it wouldn't be our final landing spot. We wanted to get out of our rental and into something that was ours, had more room and was detached from the neighbors(who had numerous dogs and didn't know how to shut a door without slamming it.) This house was available, priced right and met our immediate needs. But, we knew it wouldn't be "thee" forever home. And if you have a husband like mine who enjoys the "adventure" of moving...well, I knew it would come some day. And that day is here. Good news for us though, we won't be leaving our quaint little all-American Ohio small town. Just looking for a different house on a different street.

With that in mind, I'd like to hear from some other "movers" out there. In all of our times of moving I've decided that a local move is harder than an out-of-state move. What do you all think? How many times have any of you readers moved? Anyone wanting to move but can't? Anyone moving but don't want too?

Here are my pros on moving-

you purge your stuff!
you tend to get organized if you aren't already.
you decide what you really need or don't need.
your house is pretty much always tidy...if its on the market.
you have a chance to decorate a new space(s).

And now the cons-

you're always cleaning...if its on the market!
you have to pack and pack and pack some more.
or stuff and stuff and stuff things in your car to make numerous trips to the new place three blocks away...if you're doing a local move.
you have to "break in" the new neighbors and hope they like you and your kids and your big scary looking dog :)

So, leave me some movin' love comments about how you and/or your family deal with moving!

Reading?

2010-02-10T05:55:00.000-08:00

Good morning readers! And speaking of reading, I'll have to admit that I've been doing quite a bit of that lately. It seems that ever since I've become a mother I've gone through a sort of binge and purge style when it comes to reading. You know how it goes...

When you're pregnant with your first child you read anything and everything about pregnancy, babies, toddlers, birthing, etc.

Then the baby is born and you continue to read everything about infants, toddlers, sleeping patterns, etc. or there's no reading at all outside of a magazine article in the bathroom!

Well, right after precious baby #2 turned a year old, I finally picked up a book that had nothing to do with kids, parenting or marriage! *gasp* Its true. I read this book from cover to cover in two days, with two toddlers running around the house. I suddenly felt this awakening in me. This renewed need to read. And I've been feeding it ever since.

Now the only down side is this...I L-O-V-E fiction. Preferably historical fiction. I can not stand self-help books. Although I could probably use some self-help in certain areas. I also L-O-V-E reads that have to do with design, organization, and home decor. I'm even at the point where I'm making lists at the end of the year of all the books I've read...like some sort of personal accomplishment list...sad? Maybe. There's something about seeing a long list of what you've read over the last 12 months. Then I had this huge realization...I'm actually reading more than I thought! How is that possible? I'm glad you asked. I read to my children every night. And now that they are older, we are reading long chapter books like Where The Red Fern Grows and The Chronicles Of Narnia.

So, for some inspiration I will leave you with a list of some of my favorite authors. Any of their books are great!

Amy Tan
Anita Shreve
Alice Sebold
Beverly Lewis
Francine Rivers
Lisa See
Tamara Alexander

And I'll also let you in on a little secret of mine...I USE my library ALL THE TIME! Its free! And then I don't have tons of books taking up space all over my house. The beauty of the library is you can reserve books online and receive an email when your books are ready to pick-up. This comes in handy if you have a busy schedule or small children at home, leaving no time for trolling the shelves at the library.

So, what are you reading these days? Leave me a comment with your favorite author or most recent read. I'm always looking for something new!

Budget Blooms

2010-02-09T03:29:00.000-08:00

What girl doesn't like receiving fresh flowers? I know that was one thing about my lover that hooked me right away. He sent me this H-U-G-E monochromatic bouquet that was gorgeous when we were in the thorough of early love. He even told me that his wife would receive fresh flowers every week. Aren't we all wishful thinkers in those early dating days? Well, 11 years later, I believe that last time fresh flowers were delivered or brought to me...was...hhhmmm....wait for it.....my birthday 2008. Not too terribly long. But long enough that I was feeling the need for some flower love.

So, when I read about this I thought what a great idea! In this blog, the husband has gifted his wife fresh flowers every month for a year! The best part is, he's decided to buy them at a budgeted price! Meaning he finds them at places like Trader Joes or the local grocer.

Instead of waiting for my lover to bring home flowers I decided I would pick some up for myself whilst grocery shopping. Or at least look to see what was available. I was pleasantly surprised to find these beauties! And at $4 they were the perfect price. Upon getting them home I plopped them into the tall glass vase, added cold water and some of the "food" that came with them and found their home on the entry table you see. They've been sitting there ever since. Here's the best part...they are over ONE MONTH OLD! What? Yes, you read it right! ONE MONTH OLD! how can that be you? I don't know. I guess I lucked out and bought a nice hardy bloom.

budget blooms(one month after purchasing)

Best part is, my lover loves them too! And since I had such luck with the local grocer bouquet, I'll buy from them again. Now go buy yourself some flowers and enjoy!

Great Score!

2010-02-08T05:48:00.000-08:00

We aren't huge sports fans in this house, but we do like to watch "the big games" (i.e. Superbowl, World Series, NBA playoffs). I do try to make them fun and somewhat exciting for the kids. So, last night for the Superbowl I made a huge spread of goodies...yes, it was only the 5 of us, but whatever...and we got ready to watch the game. The boys were so awesome! Parker and Kohl cut out a banner that said Colts and roped off the entrance to the back room. Parker dressed up in sunglasses and a hat and acted as the "bouncer" with a VIP list and asked our names, checking his "list" to see if we were permitted to the party! He had his iPod set up and blasting music, setting the atmosphere! It was hilarious. We had a great time together. Kendall and I had a good laugh over Kohl being so upset about the Colts losing! He wouldn't talk to anyone and didn't even say good night to us! He took it hard! Funny thing is...he's not even a real Colts fan! He decided who he was cheering for like an hour before the game. Kendall and I cheered for the Saints...we always root for the underdogs. Just another memory making event that hopefully our children will remember when they are grown!

All the pictures are on Kendall's phone. I'll put some up when I can.

And speaking of a great score...my friend picked up one of these at our local grocery outlet store for $13!! I've been wanting a digi frame but didn't want to pay alot for it. $13 was right up my alley. I know its Hannah Montana...gag...but nothing a sheet of srapbooking paper couldn't cover up right? So that's exactly what I did...traced the mating on a nice denim blue paper, glued it over Hannah's face and bada bing! I loaded it up with tons of old pics from our computer and its perfect!

How about you? Anyone score a great deal on something you had to perk up or make over? Do share!

Fresh and Clean

2010-02-06T05:27:00.000-08:00

Its beautiful sight when you wake up to the world outside your window covered in a fresh 4-5 inches of fluffy white snow! I'm still new to this whole northeast winter thing, so I still find it beautiful, refreshing, pure and (even yes) fun!

If you're looking for some fresh and cleaness yourself, take a look at this. I kept saying wow and wow!!!

Or try a little peek here. I'm really diggin' this blog!

And now on to my own fresh and clean to-do list. Our home is getting its For Sale sign next week and there are alot of things on that to-do list.

have carpets cleaned
move foose ball table to basement
organize master bedroom closet
make all the finger prints disappear from all the white trim in the house
come up with some cool art for the basement windows

and on and on it goes. Any fresh and clean things going on at your home? Please share!

Friday Facts

2010-02-05T05:53:00.000-08:00

It February already! My eldest child just turned 11...almost unbelievable to me! On this frigid Friday morning here are the facts...

Thankful For: Healthy children. Although my precious Kohl has had the flu for two days, I am so thankful that he has overall health. I'm thankful for the knowledge and assurance that this will pass and he will be restored. Thankful that its a temporary illness.

Listening To: The dog snoring and some soft music playing from the stereo.

What's For Dinner: That's the last thing on my mind this morning. With no appetite its been hard to find the desire to cook. I'm also looking into this idea. Might be changing the way we eat and look at food around here. Nothing crazy or extreme, just a new approach.

Looking Forward To: When this lice scare is over at school! GRRRROOOOOSSSS!!!!! Thankfully, I haven't received the dreaded call from the nurses office.

Missing: The sun on my skin. The warmth of summer. Barbecues. Swimming.

Happy Friday readers! Check out this article about what happens to a small town when nature and government work together...sad, but reality for these people.

Have a good weekend!

This and That

2010-02-01T06:34:00.000-08:00

Its been busy...to busy to post you ask?! I guess so. To answer a recent comment...we are waffling back and forth on whether or not to sell this house and move to another street here in the same town. No more big moves for this family! Listing in still undecided. Will keep you posted.

Good news- my sister is moving out this way next month! Yea for me, boo for my parents. They will miss her. I am so excited for her and her family to embark on this new chapter in their lives.

This week includes

Celebrating my son's 11th birthday!
Posting about the coat closet re-do.
Tackling the master bedroom closet.
Karate
Possibly getting started on a project with some vintage fabric I picked up at an antique shop last week!

Fun Fun!!

Decor Anxiety

2010-01-20T06:07:00.000-08:00

Its still undecided about when we will list our home, but in the meantime I have gone room by room and made a detailed list of things that need to be done. One big thing for the entire house is a little decorating. By this I mean tchotchkes (trinkets, nick-nacks, etc.) I call myself tchotchke- challenged because I can not commit to putting something out on display. I know in my head what I'd like to see...the beautiful mantle display in the PotteryBarn mag, but when it comes to picking things out at the store I get all freaked out. Seriously, this is me in WalMart over the weekend...hot, sweaty, dizzy...I told Kendall I felt like I was having a panic attack. I can't commit to decor! Maybe it stems from my hate-o-clutter. Or my cheapness.

So we did pick out a few things(buffet lamps, terrarium, urns with fake flowers and candles) from WalMart...gasp...Then we headed to Pier1. We actually took all three angels in the store with us and no major crisis occurred! Must be turning a corner in our parenting! We snagged a table runner, hurricane candle holder and some throw pillows here and here.

Mantle Before

Mantle After

It was hard for me folks to buy something and then put it up there and leave it. So, here's to baby steps in acquiring and using tchotchkes.

Front Room Before

Front Room After

I also tried my hand at making a table display...solely out of things we already owned. Idea tips here. BTW I am looooving this blog.

Kitchen Table Before

Kitchen Table After

I took some left over fabric, topped it with a wood tray, added some mason jars that I put a scoop of oats in and a tea light. Then I layered in some small plates from this collection, a bowl, and that adorable owl canister. The pineapple added height and texture. The napkins softened it a bit.

Dining Room Before

Dining Room After

There's a quick peek into our weekend decorating frenzy. Look forward to another post on closet organization soon!

Hit Me Baby One More Time

2010-01-18T08:35:00.000-08:00

Seems like every time I turn around its another day off of school or an early release. Today its MLK Day. Its also grey and cold. The snow is slushy and gross. The house needs to be cleaned and put together. And all three of my beautiful angels are home :)

Looks like I'll be putting them to work. I finally put the cabosh on "screen" watching for the day and now they are all whining about the work they have. Heaven forbid they should actually have to pick up their rooms and take the sheets off their beds! Its not like I asked them to scrub the toilets...although that's sounding better and better now that I think about it!

Got a little busy "staging" our home this weekend. Will do another post on that later and my anxiety over commiting to decor!

Happy Monday!

What Makes It So Special?

2010-01-15T06:00:00.000-08:00

My husband never makes a specific request for gifts. His birthday being next week, I asked him weeks ago "what would you like for your birthday?" Expecting the usual response ,"Oh you don't have to get me anything" or "A Starbucks card," I was pleasantly surprised when he said he wanted a wood drafting table. Specifically something old with character. Hhhhhmm. Nothing like being specific. But at least I had something to go on. So I put the word out to my sources (i.e. friends and neighbors) to start keeping an eye out for this type of piece. Then I started calling around to different shops.

Finally, early this week I found something...or at least I hoped I had. The dealer at the antique shop said he had a "unique" piece. It was a drafting table with an iron base and wood top. He thought it dated back to 1890! WHAT! Our house was built in 1890...how cool is that! So, vied to have the car on Thursday (since we are down to one snow worthy vehicle in the winter) and set out on an adventure to bring home the perfect gift. Lucky for me, my antique savvy friend was able to come along!

Upon entering the shop my eyes fell on it immediately...it was after all waiting for me at the front door. I knew I had found EXACTLY what I was looking for. I knew he would love it! I knew I had scored in the gift giving department...Finally!!

So money was exchanged, it was loaded into my truck and headed home to its new owner. Now what makes this piece so special that he would have to have it? Well, think of all the blueprints, plans and creations that have passed across it over time. How many buildings were planned, thought up and born on that table top? How many creators sat there hour after hour working at their craft, perfecting their work? Its a rare find. A gem among our modern pressboard vaneer factory made pieces that float over from China and fall apart in months. Something that has stood the test of time and is still in beautiful condition. That's what makes it so special.

Happy Birthday Lover!

Fight The Good Fight

2010-01-12T05:47:00.000-08:00

In my attempt to give up refined sugar, I've discovered a few new things.

Fruit never tasted so sweet as it does now!
You can make waffles with Splenda!
I'm not craving sugar like I did those first few days.
It was actually "easy" to say no thanks to cake at a party last week!
Local honey has become a great substitute and only a tiny bit seems SO sweet.

Getting easier everyday!

Super Cool

2010-01-08T06:22:00.000-08:00

Check out this couple.

People are pretty creative.

To Shovel or Not to Shovel?

2010-01-07T10:13:00.000-08:00

That remains the question here in the greater Cleveland area. We live in a cute town that is known to be very walkable and walker friendly. However, when the snow hits, that walk-ability becomes questionable. Only a portion of the village residents shovel the sidewalk in front of their homes. I've noticed that less than half of the residents on Bell St. shovel theirs. When your town acquires 20+ inches of snow in a given weekend and you don't shovel then if freezes over and gets icy, that makes for a pretty nasty climb over an ice mountain with a dog on a leash!

So, imagine my surprise today after mountain climbing over the sidewalks of my own street, when I turn the block and find the ENTIRE street's sidewalks have been cleared! WHAT! How is this possible? I was beyond thrilled and so was the dog! Neither of us had to excavate waste deep in the snow on a sidewalk just to go out for a walk around the block.

So, here's a big THANK YOU to the residents on Ridgewood Rd who live on the sidewalked side of the street and cleared your entire street of walks!

Oh The Love For Sugar

2010-01-06T05:42:00.000-08:00

In order to give up refined sugar you have to be willing to sacrifice a few things...

no baking for a few days.
hiding all the candy so you're not tempted.
a moment of sanity when the neighbor sends over a plate of cookies for "your children" and you shamelessly sniff them before setting the plate down.

I'll let you know how I hold up. Its getting easier everyday! We'll see what happens when the Baker returns to the kitchen...

A Happy New Year

2010-01-04T05:31:00.000-08:00

No resolutions, just goals.

*Give up refined sugar...so far so good!

*Send more correspondence to my in-laws...pictures, letters from the kids, etc. Maybe a certain set of grandparents will be inspired to come visit us!

*Listen to Parker more patiently. This will be a hard one, as I like him to get to the point of his rants...quickly.

*Set up a more regular date night with my lover.

Happy New Year dear readers!

Winter Wonderland

2009-12-28T10:04:00.000-08:00

Its snowing finally!

This is the view from my kitchen, looking out to the deck.

This is from the bottom of our yard, looking up the hill.

It is beautiful white wonderfulness! I put soup in the crockpot, suited everyone up, and we headed outside to play til lunch.

Such a wonderful way to spend a Monday morning!

A Very Merry Christmas

2009-12-27T07:43:00.000-08:00

Our Christmas celebrations started the morning of Christmas Eve when we gathered clothes, toys and gift cards that had been donated by friends and neighbors and ourselves and organized them into gift boxes for three families from the Sudanese Lost Boys of Cleveland. We then loaded everything up in our truck and headed into Cleveland to personally deliver the gifts. What an amazing blessing for our family to give to others. We were warmly received at each home and spent some time talking with each family. They were all so happy to see us. Our children said they were happy to help give Christmas to others. It was a great way to spend the eve of our Savior's birth and prepare our hearts for Christmas.

We attended our church's candlelight service. Beautiful music and a wonderful message by our pastor. After the service we headed home to have a light supper and open some gifts. Since we have always had one family or another far from us, one of our family traditions is that the kids are able to open any gifts that have come from "out of town." They love this, since our gift to them on Christmas eve is usually a pair of new pajamas. Oh so exciting...

Unfortunately, all of our snow has melted off. We are anxiously waiting for more to come, since the kids only want to play outside when there is something white and fluffy on the ground.

Only four days left of 2009. I started talking with the boys last night about New Year Goals. Trying to get them to think of ways we can serve those in need and those around us this coming year.

Until next time!

Please Remember

2009-12-12T06:29:00.000-08:00

If you are a frequent traveler on Bell St. here in town, PLEASE remember that the speed limit is 25mph!! Also, remember that it is a RESIDENTIAL area. This means that its actually a NEIGHBORHOOD! People live on this street, who see it as their neighborhood. There are 18 school aged kids who live on the stretch of Bell St. from Ridgewood to Main. Children walk to school everyday who have to deal with speeding cars and drivers who carelessly come up on the curb as they whip around the bend.

As long as we live in our home, we will fight the good fight to keep people aware of the dilemma our neighborhood faces. And for those of you who have complained about the little green "slow" guy blocking the sidewalk, or the lady with the stop sign crossing children...GET A LIFE!!! When drivers are so concerned about their own travels that they can't take a minute to stop for a pedestrian or slow down so a child can cross the street, and they complain to the police about the efforts trying to be made to help our neighborhood...I say find another route to travel on!

And when the village sends out their henchmen to tell us we can't put the slow sign on the sidewalk because of "complaints" and take our slow signs down and the police say we can't cross our children with a stop sign because of complaints...I say you don't intimidate us! Help us solve the problem and stop being so overly concerned about the drivers and start looking out for the residents who actually live on this street in this neighborhood!

Oh Boy!

2009-12-10T07:13:00.000-08:00

No its not a baby! At least not in our house anyway. My bro-in-law and his wife are expecting next month...a precious miracle baby boy. And I say miracle because he will be the second child for them and his sister is 15 years old!! WOW! And no, this was not planned! Suuuprise(insert Nacho Libre voice here).

Anyways...on to my very own Oh Boy! Its snowing finally. The tree is up. The gifts are wrapped. The halls are decked...and the house is going up FOR SALE. Yes, you read it right. We are putting the house up for sale. My darling husband has decided that he'd like to live on a quieter street with our house further off the road. I can't blame him really. What makes this a sad turn of events is the fact that I love my neighbors. Anyone who's moved numerous times knows that when you get good neighbors, you've really lucked out! You stay put and hope that they stay put. At least we aren't changing towns or schools...and the house has to actually sell!

With all that too say...its going to be a busy winter full of constant cleaning and decluttering. The realtor came to photograph the house yesterday. When Parker came home from school he said to me "why did you clean up so much that you made it look bare in here?" Bare as in naked? Bare as in I put away everyone's stuff that they always leave lying around? Hhhhhhmmmmm...either our house has been cluttered or I never clean. Any of you who know me well, know that I am NOT a fan of clutter. I guess I went above and beyond in putting everything in its place.

Happy Thursday to you all! Oh and if you're interested in an adorable house in Chagrin Falls. OH...let me know. I have one for sale!