The Crazy Pink House

fall

2010-09-24T14:24:00.001-04:00

fall
Originally uploaded by in7thheaven

2008-10-31T14:20:00.001-04:00

2008-03-26T08:49:00.001-04:00

Come visit me at my new blog~

http://pinkpaintedlady.blogspot.com/

come on over

2008-02-12T20:17:00.000-05:00

I'm so irritated with this blog I could scream.The reason I haven't posted in several days is well....because my blog dissapeared!!!! That's right.Every time I logged in it said "the URL didn't exist.ACKKK!! With that and my pics never posting where they are supposed to etc etc I've gotten frustrated and just gone off and started fresh with a new one.
This one will still be here but I'll posting at the new one.
Come on over and visit!It's a work in progress.

http://pinkpaintedlady.blogspot.com/

Mr Groundhog says................................

2008-02-03T09:13:00.000-05:00

6 more weeks of winter.Yep,I knew it.
http://www.groundhog.org/prediction/
I really don't mind the winter that much,at least I didn't used to.I love the holidays and snow and all that but by Feb I'm usually hankering to see some green.I think most of my family suffers from that "seasonal disorder",especially hubby and my oldest son.Gosh they whine and sulk all winter long then that 1st spring day hits and they're like new people!
Speaking of my oldest son,he had one pair of jeans that fit him due to his giant growth spurt over the last 6 mos so we went to Tar-gay last night to get him a pair.
We walk in and he immediately veers off in the other direction,I call his name and he keeps walking pretending not to hear me or know who I am. I fianlly catch up with him in the clothes and he starts speaking to me and his sister in a very heavy (loud)british accent!(can we say Britney-bi-polar y'all!!!)He hasn't gone off the deep end or anything this is just his idea of being funny and amusing and embarrasing the heck out of his weary mom.I had to laugh tho he really can pull off that accent quite well!!!!lol
Yep,teenagers are a barell of fun folks.
My youngest is finally feeling better,I found out that his eardrum actually burst due to the infection.Poor little guy,that had to be so painful.
He is eating again finally,running around screaming and hurling his trucks across the room so it appears he's back to his little terrible two destructive self.
I caught 2 of my fave movies on last night,"Father of the Bride" and "Father of the Bride 2"!The 2nd one aired prior to the 1st for some weird reason but whatever.My middle daughter watched them with me and we laughed and talked about how perfect that house in the movie is.Those movies never fail to make me smile!

So I'm off to make the troops some breakfast.I guess it's Super Bowl sunday?
The only person in our house that follows football at all is my oldest daughter,I know that the Patriots are in it but I have no idea who the other team is.lol
It seems even if you don't like football you just MUST make some nachos and wings then turn on the game like you're interested.Hey,good excuse to eat some junk food!

My nutty header photo

2008-01-28T16:48:00.000-05:00

I have been trying to change my header photo for weeks,I mean I like it but I'm wanting a new one since christmas has been over for quite a while now!
When I go in and click "remove image" it just blinks and won't let me!!!AGHHHH!!!
If anyone knows how to do it or what might be wrong please help!

Mondays...(((sigh)))

2008-01-28T15:56:00.000-05:00

I had an ok weekend,I thought the kids were finally getting over whatever they all had then Sat night my baby came down with it.It's awful when they're sick and there just isn't a whole lot that you can do other than comfort them. He has an ear infection and when I say that I MEAN it.I've never actually been able to SEE it in one of the kids ears but I could with this one. I guess his ear drum actually burst and all the "stuff" came out.It totally freaked me out but I guess it's fairly common.NOT pretty!I'm sure it's quite painful too,poor little guy.
My girls and I sat around and watched movies yesterday which I very raely do and even when a movie is on I still get up every 5 minutes and run around.I find it very difficult to sit for that long whie I'm thinking about 25 things that need to be done.I actually sat through "Steel Magnolias"(yes,again!) and get this...."Titanic"! What is that like 3 hours long???!!!I adore both of those tear-jerkers,so as you can guess I spent more than 4 1/2 hours on the couch crying.lol I must be getting sick or something though to stay in one place for that long,I did have a very sore throat last night and have been guzzling hot tea.Please don't let me get it,what's the chance I won't tho? (slim....very slim)

I spent ALL last Sunday cooking freezer meals,this was something I'd wanted to try but never have.Well,while I have enjoyed not having to come up with dinner every night it was sooo exhausting! It took 2 days to recover from all that.Man,I'm old.
Here is a list of what I made.................
lasagna
mac n cheese
taco meat
spaghetti sauce
broc casserole
chicken noodle casserole
meat loaf
BBQ meatballs
beef n bean enchiladas
grilled chicken
lemon pepper chicken
roated rosemary chicken w/veggies
chicken n dumplings(from the roasted chicken)this was by far the whole familys fave!
I know there was a couple more but I can't remember what they were now.
It's been nice to have homemade meals every night but I'm tellin ya by last night the kids were begging for take out pizza!!! Should my feelings be hurt?lol
I might do the freezer thing again but maybe not so much in one day,lesson learned.
I actually got inspired from this wonderful lady at her blog,it's one of my faves to visit.

http://thehomespunheart.blogspot.com/search/label/from%20my%20kitchen

Tonight I'm making Easy Salisbury steak over noodles.My mom used to make this but I never really tried it till I found this recipe,it's good and easy!

Speedy Salisbury Steak

1 egg
1 can (10-1/2 ounces) condensed French onion soup, undiluted, divided
1/2 cup dry bread crumbs
1/4 teaspoon salt
Pinch pepper
1-1/2 pounds ground beef
1/4 cup water
1/4 cup ketchup
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 teaspoon prepared mustard
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons cold water
6 cups hot cooked egg noodles
Chopped fresh parsley, optional
Directions:
In a large bowl, beat egg. Stir in 1/3 cup of soup, bread crumbs, salt and pepper. Crumble beef over mixture; mix gently. Shape into six oval patties.
In a skillet, brown patties over medium heat for 3-4 minutes on each side. Remove and set aside; drain. Add the water, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, mustard and remaining soup to skillet. Bring to a boil. Return patties to skillet. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 15 minutes or until meat is no longer pink. Remove patties. Combine flour and cold water until smooth. Stir into pan. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. Serve patties and gravy over noodles. Garnish with parsley if desired. YUM!

I actually already made this earlier today so I just have to re-heat it.

I'm hoping and praying that my baby is on the mend by tomorrow,the anti-biotics usually start kicking in in a day or so.He just seems to have gotten it so much worse than the others did.

Bad week

2008-01-22T12:53:00.000-05:00

I'ts true,sometimes life just does not go the way you want it to.
We have good days,we have bad days and this week I'm having some of those not-so-great ones.
I'll get over it,life goes on....nothing else to say right now.

Giant cupcake!

2008-01-18T13:07:00.000-05:00

This has to be one of the cutest things I've seen in awhile!
It's a cake pan that makes a cake to look like a big cupcake!You can ice the top,add sprinkles,etc
I just love it! I have 2 of my daughters birthdays coming up in the spring and I sooo want to get this and try it.
Too cute!!
I found it on several websites but saw it here first.
http://www2.gooseberrypatch.com/gooseberry/products.nsf/v.weball/Giant_Cupcake_Pan_-Itemh632?editdocument&lid=is_H632|cartprocess=textsrcat

Bliss~

2008-01-17T10:30:00.001-05:00

There's been a word following me around lately,(you know when you hear or see something then all of a sudden it seems like it's everywhere?)
It's ~"BLISS"
I have never used that word much or really heard it that often but it seems to be just "wanting" me to notice it.
What is "bliss"? The official definition follows~

"blithesomeness; gladness; now, the highest degree of happiness; blessedness; exalted felicity; heavenly joy."

Wow,the "highest" degree of happiness! Have I found that? What does that mean?I started thinking about it in bed last night and there are some times in my life that I think I've felt that.
~the days and even exact moments my children were all born
~my wedding day
~seeing my children doing something that makes them completely happy

ok,other than that I can't think of a time when I could say that I've acheived "heavenly joy"
In the definition it also mentions "blessedness",now I think most days I feel very blessed in my life but that seems different to me than the other stuff.
I would love to be able to feel that way every day,I mean who wouldn't?!Is it a feeling,a state of mind,a journey?
Maybe someone is trying to tell me something? I even saw a book I beleive it was (or possibly an article,I can't recall right now but I noticed it)called "Finding Your Bliss"
How do you go about that? (on a daily basis anyway)
I mean I know I've probably been much more focused on the negatives in my life recently so maybe this is the brick I needed to fall on my head?
I believe Oprah said when those little "whispers" speak to you~LISTEN!
Ok,Ok "BLISS"~I'm listening,now where do I begin?

It's still winter

2008-01-15T08:33:00.000-05:00

Well,the 60 degree days we had were just a little tease for spring because now we're freezing! It's like 18 here right now!
BRRRR!
I got this recipe in my e-mail this morning from
http://www2.gooseberrypatch.com/
it sounds soooo good.I have been obsessed with soup lately mainly because it's generally easy,fast and not high in fat or calories.This recipe could even be tweaked a bit to make it more WW (weight watchers)friendly.
Is there anything better on a freezing cold day than soup,especially with cheese!!!
I think not.

Cheddar Cheese Soup~~
1/4 c. butter
1/4 c. all-purpose flour
2 12-oz. cans evaporated milk
1 c. beer or chicken broth
2 t. Worcestershire sauce
1/2 t. salt
1/2 t. dry mustard
1/4 t. cayenne pepper
8-oz. pkg. shredded sharp Cheddar cheese

Garnish: additional shredded cheese, sliced green onion

Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add flour, stirring constantly until bubbly. Add evaporated milk; bring to a boil over high heat, stirring constantly. Reduce heat; stir in beer or broth, Worcestershire sauce and seasonings. Simmer for 10 minutes; stir in cheese until melted. Garnish as desired. Makes 4 servings.

Here is a little winter poem my 8 yr old daughter wrote,thought it was appropriate

~I feel a chill
Beside the windmill

Snow falls all around
right onto the ground

I threw a snowball
right when I fall

Well blow me down!!!!

2008-01-08T14:04:00.000-05:00

We actually have a severe WIND advisory here until 7:00 pm tonight.I can't really recall the last time we had one of those.
Geesh,talk about your weirdo weather so far this winter,snowing 8 inches 1 week,65 degrees out the next now we're in a wind storm!
The little ones get so confused,my 7 year old asked me yesterday why winter went by so fast!lol
They had outside recess today,but by next week they'll probably be home on a snow day.
I'm making a new recipe tonight,if it turns out edible I'll post it tomorrow.;o)

Timeless~

2008-01-07T14:03:00.001-05:00

My parents celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary this past Christmas day.(they are actually my grandparents but they raised and adopted me so when I refer to my mom and dad that's who I'm speaking of)
We had a big anniversary party for them last weekend and it was just wonderful.Gosh,if hubby and I make it even to 20 years I want a party!!!;o)

Happy anniversary to a very special couple
Here is their wedding pic

Highly irritated and Happy New Year

2008-01-04T19:25:00.000-05:00

I've been trying to change my top header photo for a week now and it won't let me!ACCCKKKKKK
Anyhoo................
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
Gosh I'm glad this last year is over.I hate to complain but it's been a rough one in so many ways.I'm hoping and praying that 2008 will be a better one for all of us.I'm feeling hopeful about it.
I couldn't even stay up till midnight on New years eve this year,I fell asleep around 11:30.Gosh,I'm lame.

My 2 oldest boys share a birthday on New Years day so we had (requested) home made enchiladas and I even made them a cake.I usually get one from an awesome bakery that I know but I just didn't have the extra $$ this year.
I still can't believe that I'm the mom of a 14 year old boy,a 14 year old anything for that matter.When did this happen? You know when your kids are small people say"enjoy it now,they grow up so fast"
Well, you know it's true.
I'm thinking if he goes to college he could be out of the house in 4 years.How do you do that? How do you let your 1st born baby walk out the door on his own??!! I know people do it every day but it's beyond me.I have alot of prep to do I guess.Is there a class I could take maybe??
My middle son (who turned 7) is telling me at least once a day that he's joining the army or marines when he gets old enough.WHAT??!! HUH???!!! Where did that come from?
I have the utmost respect for the guys and girls in our armed forces but you don't want to hear that from your little boy,especially now.(((sigh)))This growing up thing is for the birds.

Here are some pics from the boys b-day

Happy Birthday Hubby

2007-12-27T11:49:00.000-05:00

Today is my hubbys birthday.I would've forgotten(again)if my oldest daughter wouldn't have mentioned it last night. Poor guy,with Christmas and New Years and my 2sons birthdays being on New Years day he always seems to get pushed aside.
We've been together for 16 years this February and it's not always been perfect but I can't imagine my life with anyone else,ever.
Here we are,15 years ago today.If I had only known.......Just kidding!!!!!!!!!
I remember that evening well,it was snowing and we ate steak and drank champagne at this fabulous restaurant.
Times have changed,we've changed (like I'm not brave enough to wear red lipstick now!lol)but we still have so much fun together.
I love you hubby and Happy birthday!

Merry Christmas

2007-12-25T20:03:00.000-05:00

Well,all of the food has been eaten,gifts opened,the kids are happy and I'm exhausted.
It was a good christmas,stessful but good.
I was very blessed to have almost my entire family at my home for dinner last night and tomorrow we'll be spending the evening with hubbys family.
I hope you all had a holiday spent with those you love and that you found the joy of the season in your heart,not just for this day but always.
Merry Christmas

What Child is This

What child is this, who, laid to rest
On Mary's lap, is sleeping?
Whom angels greet with anthems sweet,
While shepherds watch are keeping?
This, this is Christ the King,
Whom shepherds guard and angels sing:
Haste, haste to bring him laud,
The Babe, the Son of Mary!

So bring Him incense, gold, and myrrh,
Come peasant king to own Him,
The King of kings, salvation brings,
Let loving hearts enthrone Him.
Raise, raise the song on high,
The Virgin sings her lullaby:
Joy, joy, for Christ is born,
The Babe, the Son of Mary!

A little reminder for all of us

2007-12-21T10:53:00.000-05:00

I saw this on another blog today (http://mrsrabe.blogspot.com/)and I wanted to re-post it here.I hope she doesn't mind,it really stuck a nerve in me.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
If I decorate my house perfectly with plaid bows,
strands of twinkling lights and shiny balls,
but do not show love to my family,
I'm just another decorator.

If I slave away in the kitchen,
baking dozens of Christmas cookies,
preparing gourmet meals and arranging a beautifully adorned table at mealtime,
but do not show love to my family,
I'm just another cook.

If I work at the soup kitchen,
carol in the nursing home,
and give all thatI have to charity,
but do not show love to my family,
it profits me nothing.

If I trim the spruce with shimmering angels and crocheted snowflakes,
attend a myriad of holiday parties and sing in the choir's cantata,
but do not focus on Christ,
I have missed the point.

Love stops the cooking to hug the child.
Love sets aside decorating to kiss the husband.
Love is kind, though harried and tired.
Love doesn't envy another's home that has coordinated Christmas china and table linens.
Love doesn't yell at the kids to get out of the way,
but is thankful they are there to be in the way.
Love doesn't give only to those who are able to give in return,
but rejoices in giving to those who can't.

Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.
Love never fails.

Video games will break,
pearl necklaces will be lost,
golf clubs will rust.
But giving the gift of love will endure.

Merry Christmas!

Author Unknown

Oh FUDGE!!

2007-12-19T13:20:00.000-05:00

Well I knew it,I was getting sick.I felt like I was on my death bed yesterday but today is better.
I'm still not up to eating much but at least I'm keeping what I do eat down now.I absolutely hate being sick,I'm praying my kids don't get whatever I had.
I'm going to start baking for Christmas tomorrow night,(I wanted to make sure I was germ free before I started)I have to make 4 lbs of fudge for 2 school "winter" parties and then I'm making some cookies.
Here is my very fave fudge recipe,I've been making it for almost 12 years now and it's pretty much goof-proof.I think the peanut butter and milk chocolate are the best!!!

Famous Fudge ~~

Ingredients:

1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
2/3 cup (5 fl.-oz. can) Evaporated Milk
2 tablespoons butter or margarine
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 cups miniature marshmallows
1 1/2 cups (9 oz.) Semi-Sweet Chocolate Morsels,(or whatever flavor you prefer)
1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:
LINE 8-inch-square baking pan with foil.

COMBINE sugar, evaporated milk, butter and salt in medium, heavy-duty saucepan. Bring to a full rolling boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Boil, stirring constantly, for 4 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat.

STIR in marshmallows, morsels, nuts and vanilla extract. Stir vigorously for 1 minute or until marshmallows are melted. Pour into prepared baking pan; refrigerate for 2 hours or until firm. Lift from pan; remove foil. Cut into squares

FOR MILK CHOCOLATE FUDGE:
SUBSTITUTE 1 3/4 cups (11.5-oz. pkg.) Milk Chocolate Morsels for Semi-Sweet Chocolate Morsels.

FOR BUTTERSCOTCH FUDGE:
SUBSTITUTE 1 2/3 cups (11-oz. pkg.) Butterscotch Flavored Morsels for Semi-Sweet Chocolate Morsels.

FOR PEANUTTY CHOCOLATE FUDGE:
SUBSTITUTE 1 2/3 cups (11-oz. pkg.) Peanut Butter & Milk Chocolate Morsels for Semi-Sweet Chocolate Morsels and 1/2 cup chopped peanuts for pecans or walnuts.

Feelin like a slug

2007-12-17T13:43:00.000-05:00

Have you ever had one of those days that you could sit on the couch in your robe all day and not move?That would be me today.I'm not feeling well and I'm cold.It's like 18 degrees outside and my house is basically warm other than the kitchen (which for some reason has never been easy to warm up)and of course that's where I spend most of my time.
I think I'm getting a virus or maybe just tired I don't know.The weekend went well,we watched "Deck The Halls" on Saturday and while it's no Oscar worthy show by a long stretch it is funny and a cute Christmas movie to watch with your kids. They watched it 3 times in all by last night I think. I made homemade pot pie and mashed potatoes for dinner then on Sunday I went grocery shopping,cleaned up the basement and bathrooms then we FINALLY got some lights up outside! I know,I'm so behind it's not even funny.I'm not even close to being done with my shopping yet and I still have baking to do,etc etc,oh well.I'm trying to slow down this year and enjoy the season,maybe I've slowed down a bit too much!
Here are a few of my fave Christmas links,some are new ones I've found and a couple are sites I visit every year.
cute~
http://www.santalady.com/stories.html

We visit this one every Xmas eve with the kids~
http://www.holoworld.com/santa/

I've been addicted to this channel for several years now and around this time of year they show all the good,sappy xmas movies. They're good to watch with the family
http://www.hallmarkchannel.com/publish/consumer/home.html

love this one
http://www.anoldfashionedchristmas.com/index.html

right up my alley
http://www.victoriana.com/christmas/default.htm

great site that one of the teachers recommended
http://www.northpole.com/

great recipes
http://www.smithfield.com/paula/index.php

I saw a recipe on Rachel Ray today that I do believe some of my family members will be receiving for Christmas, it looked so yummy and very easy.That's exactly what I need right now,easy! I think I might need another cup of coffee right now too,the kids wwill be home soon and I have to snap out of this or it's going to be a long night.

Here is the pot pie recipe,not quite homemade but close enough! I never have any of this left over.

Hearty Chicken Pot Pie~~

1 package (16 ounces) frozen mixed vegetables, thawed
1 cup cut-up cooked chicken(I use canned)

1 can (10 3/4 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup
1 cup Original Bisquick® mix
1/2 cup milk
1 egg

I add 1/2 tsp each of ground sage,thyme,and tarragon

1. Heat oven to 400ºF. Mix vegetables, chicken and soup in ungreased 2-quart casserole.
2. Stir remaining ingredients in small bowl with fork until blended. Pour into casserole.
3. Bake 30 minutes or until golden brown.

The Christmas Rose

2007-12-14T13:57:00.000-05:00

We're off to see Santa this afternoon, I HOPE to be able to get a picture of all the kdis together.It's always a gamble so I'm crossing my fingers!

Here is a story I found today,I love Christmas and roses so I think this is just beautiful.

Christmas Rose Legend~

When the Magi laid their rich offerings of myrrh, frankincense, and gold by the bed of the sleeping Christ Child, legend says that a shepherd maiden stood outside the door quietly weeping.

She too, had sought the Christ Child and desired to bring him gifts. But she had nothing to offer, for she was very poor indeed. She had searched the countryside over for one little flower to bring Him, but she could find neither bloom nor leaf, for the winter had been cold.

And as she stood there weeping, an angel passing saw her sorrow, and stooping, the angel brushed aside the snow at her feet. And there sprang up on the spot a cluster of beautiful winter roses, -- waxen with light pink petals.

"Nor myrrh, nor frankincense, nor gold," said the angel, "is offering more meet for the Christ Child than these pure Christmas Roses." These the shepherd maiden carries to Jesus, who smiles broadly and touches them, turning them pale pink.

Christmas art

2007-12-12T14:44:00.000-05:00

My 4 yr old daughter drew this pretty purple tree for me today,(the same one who drilled me on Santa last night)I helped her with the outline but she did all the decorations herself.
I have so many pictures,cards,and little homemade presents that my kids have made over the years and they mean so much.
She called this one her "princess tree" and I do think this tree is positively magical!

My Christmas Santa fairy

2007-12-12T13:07:00.000-05:00

A few years ago I got this adorable fairy type Santa,he even kind of looks like an elf with his little pointy shoes. I put him on our bed every year and last night my 4year old girlie was staring at him and says"why is he pink and why does he have wings?"
ummm,"well he's not the real Santa"
she says"does Santa fly?"
Me~"No,he rides in the sleigh and the reindeer fly"
her~"then why does he have those wings??"
me~ummm,"I don't know"
her~"are they just in case the reindeer break down?"
me~ummm,yea that's it..
You gotta love a 4 year olds mind

A little prayer

2007-12-11T12:51:00.000-05:00

My oldest daughter found out yesterday that one of her best friends was just diagnosed with Leukemia.
She's going in for surgery to remove a giant cancerous lump from her neck today.
We're all in shock and praying for her and the family.She's only 12 years old.
If you're visiting me here or just stumbled across my blog,please take a second to send some good thoughts and prayers her way,I know the family would appreciate it.Her name is Tabitha.
I can only imagine how her parents feel and how frightened that little girl must be at this time.
~Thank You

It's just me.....................

2007-12-10T14:13:00.000-05:00

A moms letter to Santa

2007-12-10T09:29:00.000-05:00

I found this on another website but there is no author listed or I would give credit.

I think the last line is the best.

Dear Santa,

I've been a good mom all year. I've fed, cleaned and
cuddled my children on demand, visited their doctor's
office more than my doctor and sold sixty-two cases
of candy bars to raise money to plant a shade tree on
the school playground. I was hoping you could spread
my list out over several Christmases, since I had to
write this letter with my son's red crayon, on the back
of a receipt in the laundry room between cycles, and
who knows when I'll find anymore free time in the
next 18 years.

Here are my Christmas wishes:

I'd like a pair of legs that don't ache
(in any color, except purple, which I
already have) and arms that don't hurt
or flap in the breeze, but are strong
enough to pull my screaming child out
of the candy aisle in the grocery store.

I'd also like a waist, since I lost mine
somewhere in the seventh month of
my last pregnancy.

If you're hauling big ticket items this
year I'd like fingerprint resistant windows
and a radio that only plays adult music,
a television that doesn't broadcast any
programs containing talking animals,
and a refrigerator with a secret
compartment behind the crisper where
I can hide to talk on the phone.

On the practical side, I could use a
talking doll that says, "Yes, Mommy"
to boost my parental confidence, along
with two kids who don't fight and three
pairs of jeans that will zip all the way
up without the use of power tools.

I could also use a recording of Tibetan
monks chanting "Don't eat in the living
room" and "Take your hands off your
brother," because my voice seems to
be just out of my children's hearing
range and can only be heard by the dog.

If it's too late to find any of these
products, I'd settle for enough time
to brush my teeth and comb my hair
in the same morning, or the luxury
of eating food warmer than room
temperature without it being served
in a Styrofoam container.

If you don't mind, I could also use
a few Christmas miracles to brighten
the holiday season. Would it be too
much trouble to declare ketchup a
vegetable? It will clear my conscience
immensely. It would be helpful if you
could coerce my children to help
around the house without demanding
payment as if they were the bosses
of an organized crime family.

Well, Santa, the buzzer on the dryer is
calling and my son saw my feet under
the laundry room door. I think he wants
his crayon back. Have a safe trip and
remember to leave your wet boots by
the door and come in and dry off so
you don't catch cold.

Help yourself to cookies on the table
but don't eat too many or leave
crumbs on the carpet.

Yours Always,

MOM...

P.S. One more thing...you can cancel
all my requests if you could just keep my
children young enough to believe,maybe just one more year.............

I always fancied myself as Blitzen

2007-12-07T18:48:00.001-05:00

Which of Santa's Reindeer are you?

Comet

Like Comet you are always happy. Nothing seems to get you down and you can always put a smile on people's faces

Find out which of Santa's Reindeer you are at Quizopolis.com

What's your elf name?

2007-12-07T18:42:00.001-05:00

Christmas Elf Name

My Christmas Elf Name is

Get your Christmas Elf Name at JokesUnlimited.com

Oh the weather outside is frightful.............

2007-12-05T21:38:00.000-05:00

Well,not really.It was so beautiful this morning! We got our 1st real snow of the season and I would say it ended up being close to 4 inches easily.The kids even had the day off of school.
Here are a few pics~my daughter took this one early this morning

Beginning to feel like Christmas!

2007-12-04T10:08:00.000-05:00

"A Charlie Brown Christmas" was on TV last night and I actually got a few of my little ones to sit down and watch it with me.I mean how cute is that show?!!?? I so looked forward to it when I was little.I loved them all,Rudolph,Frosty,Nestor the Long Eared Donkey.It didn't feel like christmas until we saw those shows.I don't know if my kids even liked it or not but I enjoyed watching it with them.
For some reason they decided that they just HAD to write the letters to Santa last night (maybe snoopy inspired them!)so we sat at the computer and surfed all the toy sites until they had written down all the cars,barbies,and transformers we could find.It was so cute because they all insisted on writing little personal notes to him like "How is your wife" and "I'll be leaving you chocolate milk and cheese".
I remember looking at the JCPenney and Sears catalogs until the pages were worn,the times sure have changed.

Well,the snow is headed our way! They say 2-4 inches by Wed morning! Woo hoo!I love the snow,at least till I have to drive in it anyway.
One more thing,I had to write about my oldest sons ummm,well......his new "look".
He's had long hair for years,I seriously think it's been maybe since he was 10 that it was even remotely short.
Well,night before last he decided to trim his hair,(on his own!)It looked ok,not perfect but it would get by till I could get him to the salon.
Well,this morning he came down the stairs and I about dropped my coffee.He had done it again and this time he was almost buzzed!!!!!!!!!!!!! I mean the kid hardly has any hair.He says he loves it and I'm in complete shock.
It figures too that holiday pictures are right around the corner.I'll post some pics later if I can catch him.I bet his head is getting cold by now,lol!

Was there ever any doubt?

2007-12-03T09:04:00.000-05:00

Which Food Network chef are you?

Thanks y'all!

Quizilla | Join | Make A Quiz | More Quizzes | Grab Code

My pic of the day

2007-12-01T20:55:00.000-05:00

Mommy,she took my fruit snacks!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

speaking of trees.................

2007-11-29T20:42:00.000-05:00

We watched the lighting of the giant Christmas tree in Rockefeller Center on TV last night and once again I was amazed at the magic and beauty of it all.I've seen this the last 3 years and it's one of those things that I look forward to every year now.
My 2 youngest daughters watched it with me and they were so excited as they counted down to the big lighting,I still get excited myself.I have this mental list of a few places that I would love to go someday and that is one of them.While we were watching my middle daughter says"we HAVE to go see that someday".
Yep,someday.....................................

So worth it

2007-11-29T14:08:00.000-05:00

For reasons that I won't get into I've been having fits with my Christmas tree this year.It's been crooked and broken and smelly,etc etc etc I was aggravated and almost ready to throw in the towel(and throw the tree in the creek)but I managed to get it somewhat presentable and the little ones started putting the decorations on this morning.All my kids so look forward to our tree every year and I think this picture says it all.No matter how frustrated and stressed I get at Christmas time,seeing this makes it all worth it to me.It doesn't get any better.

I know this one is a bit fuzzy,I think I had my camera on the wrong setting.I think it even makes it look a bit more "magical"

What kind of tree are you?

2007-11-28T07:46:00.000-05:00

I always wondered........lol

You Are a Traditional Christmas Tree

For a good Christmas, you don't have to re-invent the wheel.

You already have traditions, foods, and special things you bring out every year.

What Christmas Tree Are You?

A cold weekend!

2007-11-26T10:23:00.001-05:00

Well,talk about hot soup weather,this sure is it!It's cold,dark,and raining.Our propane went out 2 days ago and if you can believe it they wanted 200.00 to come out for an emergency re-fill on top of the insane cost of the propane itself.(being aholiday weekend didn't help either,the driver was out of town)We've been bundling up and covering up and using space heaters till today and hopefully they'll get out here soon!No propane also means no hot water,yep it's been fun.I've had more house trouble in the last week,geesh!
I've got a pot of chicken soup on the stove as we speak and it smells soooo good.I use this mix and add 6 cups hot water and 2 cups chicken broth,also some frozen mixed veggies,and a dash of ground sage and thyme.YUM!I've had homemade before and this really comes pretty darn close.

The kids and I watched "Hairspray" yesterday and oh my gosh what a hoot that movie is!!!! If you haven't seen it you should!I love John Travolta anyway,I think I've had a tiny crush on him since Saturday Night Fever.Something about him when he gets out there on the dance floor!WOW!I love to watch him.It isn't quite the same when he's dressed up as a woman but still very entertaining! The movie really is cute and so funny,I laughed through the whole thing.The whole cast did a great job and I can see why all the young girls like that cutie Zac Efron. I'll be watching this one again.

Well,off to my soup and to wait for the magic propane truck.Please let him get here soon!My toes are going numb.lol
I'm also going into battle with my artificial disagreeable christmas tree today,long story but wish me luck.

Still Recovering

2007-11-25T19:40:00.000-05:00

I know I'm comin in a couple days late here but it took me all of yesterday to recover from the turkey day festivities.(and feeling like an overstuffed turkey myself)
I had some issues pop up that I sure wasn't expecting,like my dishwasher going kaput,my garbage disposal went the same route,and to top it off my oven was acting up.I didn't think I was going to pull off dinner for 16 people but with the help of hubby and my always handy father-in-law I DID it!(dishwasher is still dead but hey I've done dishes by hand all my life so no biggie)
We got the house cleaned up,I prepared and cooked for 2 days and it was wonderful if I do say so myself.(trust me it hasn't always turned out that great!)I tried a new sweet potato casserole recipe that got raves,(even from my 4 yr old which SHOCKED me)I also strayed from my tried and true stuffing recipe this year and I made Paula Deens recipe.YUM! It has cornbread in it which I normally don't care much for but it was a winner.I must say I'm still partial to the old bread stuffing tho.
My parents came which was wonderful due to the fact that my mom fell and broke 3 ribs less than a week ago and boy oh boy they've had a rough year.So many things to be thankful for this year.
All in all the day was good,no one got food poisoning,my kids didn't throw food while the guests were here,no arguments amongst family members,and nothing burned so I'm happy.
It got me thinking about the very 1st Thanksgiving that I ever had on my own.It was the 1st after hubby and I were married,my oldest was less than a year old and we lived in a tiny (but very nice)condo.I SO wanted to impress everyone on his side of the family and prove that I could do it but I had no CLUE how to even begin to make that bird.
I called my sister and she told me to use the big cooking bags and I knew her turkeys were always good so I went with that. I recall that YES,I DID leave the neck and giblets inside when I cooked it.Hey,no one ever mentioned that!!! We found it after the bird was cooked and hubby and I had an hour long discussion on how in the world they could have made a mistake like that and left the HEAD in!!! I swear it looked like the head to me!Anyway I cooked the bird like my cookbook said which ended up being 6-7 hours.Well,no one ever told me that cooking bags take less than HALF the time to cook the bird in.Yep,you can imagine how dried up and fried that thing was.I remember seeing hubby trying to lift it out of the pan and it literally fell apart! Oh gosh,they ate it tho but I recall having alot of leftovers that year!
This was my 13th year doing it now and I've learned along the way,I still screw up but I've always enjoyed doing it and I hope to able to do it for a long time to come.
I hope you all had a wonderful time with your family and friends and made some new memories to treasure,I know that I did.
Here are a few pics.
The dining room table,I ususally use a gold tablecloth for Thanksgiving but couldn't find it this year

hubby and the pies

my 4 yr old at the "kids table"

all my little turkeys together

When we all got up yesterday morning there was light dusting of snow on the ground,woo-hoo!
Now lets get that Christmas tree up folks!!!!

Happy Birthday to my pre-teen!

2007-11-25T19:18:00.000-05:00

My oldest daughter turned 12 this past Wednesday.I can't believe it,she's officially a "pre-teen".Yep, next year she'll be (GASP)a teenager.She didn't want much really,some chinese food (her fave)a chocolate cake and well.....she did make it very clear for the last year that she would LOVE a cell phone.I wavered back and forth on it for months but she's so responsible and truly she never asks for much so we did get her one.To be honest she's the last one in her group of friends to have one.I know I swore I'd never give in to the "give the kids cell phones" craze but it does make me feel a bit more secure that they have one when they leave the house.I guess it's not as bad as I once thought and there is some good in it.Here are a few pics of her big day,as you can see she was very suprised when she opened the phone and she was THRILLED!
She's just growing up so fast.Happy Birthday sweetie!

the phone,I swear she's barely put it down since she opened it.It's like her pet.:o)

My new look

2007-11-15T21:11:00.000-05:00

Well,I've been playing around with my blog again and finally figured out how to change up a few things.
I've started decorating my house for Christmas so I just had to do a little here too. I like how it turned out!
It's been a nutty around here lately,alot going on with the kids and getting ready for the holidays,family stress,financial stress,too much heaviness to ever get into here.I only try to write "pleasant" posts right??!!!
We all must have an escape or an outlet, and I guesss this "blogging" thing has turned out to be one for me.I can float around some of my fave blogs and be very inspired,amused,get a new recipe,decorating ideas,etc etc There are so many creative ladies out there blogging and I adore reading them when I can.I only get a few minutes here and there but I love it.
I like being able to come here and write about...well,whatever strikes me at that moment! I get a kick out of going back and reading some of my older posts too,it makes me think of things that otherwise I might have forgotten.

Have a great Thursday evening,off to watch "Greys Anatomy".

To My Children~

2007-11-10T09:17:00.001-05:00

*Just for this morning, I am going to step over
the laundry,
and pick you up and take you to the park to
play.

*Just for this morning, I will leave the dishes
in the sink,
and let you teach me how to put that puzzle of
yours together.

*Just for this afternoon, I will unplug the
telephone and
keep the computer off, and sit with you in the
backyard and
blow bubbles.

*Just for this afternoon, I will not yell once,
not even a
tiny grumble when you scream and whine for the
ice cream truck
and I will buy you one if he comes by.

*Just for this afternoon, I won't worry about
what you are
going to be when you grow up, or second guess
every decision
I have made where you are concerned.

*Just for this afternoon, I will let you help me
bake cookies,
and I won't stand over you trying to fix them.

*Just for this afternoon, I will take us to
McDonald's and buy
us both a Happy Meal so you can have both toys.

*Just for this evening, I will
hold you in my
arms and tell you
a story about how you were born and how much I
love you.

*Just for this evening, I will let you splash in
the tub and
not get angry.

*Just for this evening, I will let y ou stay up
late while we sit
on the porch and count all the stars.

*Just for this evening, I will snuggle beside
you for hours,
and miss my favorite TV shows.

*Just for this evening when I run my finger
through your hair
as you pray, I will simply be grateful that God
has given me the
greatest gift ever given.

*I will think about the mothers And fathers who
are searching
for their missing children, the mothers and
fathers who are
visiting their children's graves instead of
their bedrooms, and
mothers and fathers who are in hospital rooms
watching their children suffer senselessly, and screaming
inside that they can't handle it anymore.

*And when I kiss you good night I will hold you
a little tighter,
a ittle longer. It is then, that I will thank
God for you, and
ask Him for nothing, except one more
day.............

old picture

2007-11-09T18:05:00.000-05:00

I was going through some of my old pics that I have on my computer and wow,I could not believe how many I've accumulated! I believe it's over 2,000.This coming from the girl who fought digital cameras to the end!
I came across this pic of hubby and my 3rd son,it was always one of my faves and it just made me all teary when I saw it.It was taken in 2005,he couldn't have been more than 6-7 mos old.He was such a sweet baby and still is to this day.I just think it's such a cute pic,I might print it out and frame it now that I've found it again.

Happy Halloween!

2007-10-31T18:05:00.001-04:00

Well we did trick or treating last night (pics to come)so tonight we're ordering pizza and I'll be doing my best to keep the kids from going into candy comas.
As you can see from this shot they're well on their way.(that's a small portion of what they actually raked in)I've had to hide it all at this point.

When they go to bed I'll be watching one of my fave movies with my oldest girlie.I saw it for the 1st time about 3 years ago and we try to watch it every year on Halloween.
I love the music and the house is just my dream house, it's all cheesy but sooo fun to watch!

The house~

Have a safe evening!Trick or Treat!

BRRRRRRRRRRR

2007-10-29T07:50:00.000-04:00

Good Morning!

Finally hot chocolate weather people!

Gosh it's chilly here today!It got down in the mid 30s last night.It seems that we went from the 80s to jacket weather overnight! My middle son has a pumpkin carving party this morning,back later with pics.
Happy Monday!

My personality type,hmmm

2007-10-28T19:22:00.003-04:00

~Amy

How to know you're a mom of many

2007-10-27T20:15:00.000-04:00

Ok,seeing as though I'm a mom of 7 this really hit home and made me giggle.

1. You know where the bathroom is in any major store you visit.

2. Your car has more seatbelts than windows.

3. Your grocery budget is higher than your house payment.

4. You do most of your thinking and praying in the bathroom.

5. Creative decorating means lots of bookshelves and bunkbeds.

6. You no longer carry a purse, but use the diaper bag instead.

7. Your idea of good commercial building design means a comfy mother's lounge.

8. You constantly find yourself marveling how short the time is between birth and toddling, birth and schoolage, birth and graduation, etc.

9. Even your two year old knows that they must hold someone's hand in the grocery store.

10. You have a routine for stopping pacifiers, toilet training, cup training, and every childhood “phase”.

11. You have at least three witty replies to "Are they all yours?"

12. You just really wish people would not think they were clever for saying, "Don't you know what causes that?"

13. You have forgotten how many times you have been asked, "Are you Mormon or Catholic?"

14. You are still afraid to tell your husband how many more kids you want!

15. Your food storage takes up more room than your entire kitchen... And that is just for this week!

16. You have so much laundry that when you finally get to the bottom of the pile, it's actually stuck to the floor!

17. You spend a lot of time at church in the foyer or mother’s lounge, wondering why you can’t just stay home and listen to the baby fuss there!

18. You spend more money on diapers each month than you do on entertainment!

19. You instantly sympathize with any woman who is obviously pregnant in the middle of summer.

20. You are up to double digits in years that you have spent with a baby attached to you in one way or another!

21. Taking the kids grocery shopping with you makes you feel like a mother duck.

22. You hate carpools because you know who is going to get stuck doing the driving.

23. When you see photos of castles and grand mansions, all you can think is how many bedrooms it has (YES!), and how much space all those other rooms provide for the kids to mess up (NO WAY!).

24. You know that every time you move the couch or couch cushions, you will find Cheerios under them.... Even if you have not had Cheerios in the house!

25. You know the “law of crumbs”. “Any food item that will crumble will produce twice its own weight in crumbs.”

26. You know by experience that paint NEVER dries until it has been spread around in all the places you did NOT want it to be.

27. You know what to use to remove lipstick, shortening, and indelible marker from any surface.

28. You know how to get smashed raisins out of a carpet, and how to get bubblegum out of hair, and so do all your older kids.

29. You are certain one of your kids is sneaking rolls of toilet paper out of the house and selling them because you know there is no way they could be using that much of it, even if there ARE a lot of bottoms in your house.

30. When you go to order fast food, you order 6 hamburgers, one with ketchup only, one plain, one with no pickles or onions, two with no pickles, onions or mustard, and one with nothing but cheese, plus one fish sandwich, one chicken sandwich, one large hamburger, and one large hamburger with bacon. You then have to repeat yourself three times so the person at the window can get it right.

31. When your kids are learning a foreign language, you wonder how it is that they can find the words to insult each other faster than they can find the words to say “I'm sorry.”

32. If two kids bring home identical toys from their kid's meal, you know you have to put names on them first thing, or they will fight over whose is whose, even if both of them have one in their hand.

33. You spend a lot of time looking at the little kids, urging them on to the next step, while still wishing they could stay little just a bit longer.

34. You have a full baby book for your first two children, half of one for the next one, and nearly empty baby books or none at all for the later ones.

35. When the many-times-handed down clothing is finally too worn out to hand down again, you still have a hard time letting it go because it has so many good memories attached.

36. You don't have a wardrobe of “fat clothes” and “skinny clothes”. You have "regular clothes”, “pregnant clothes”, and “nursing clothes”.

37. When a child outgrows something, you put it away in a box in the closet or garage, even if you don't have a younger child of that gender, because you just know you are going to need it eventually!

38. Your idea of a great dining set is one that has lots of expansion leaves. When you see a corporate boardroom on TV, all you can think is what a great dining table the conference table would make.

39. You can list at least three different technological advances in diaper design which you, personally, have used on your kids.

40. You have at least one specialized medical skill because at least one of your kids has some kind of potentially risky condition which you deal with.

41. You sometimes wonder how it is that other moms get really nice gifts for holidays, and you end up with 6 pieces of cardboard with “I love you Mom your the best.” written on it in crooked writing. And you have a box in your closet that you put them in.

42. You cook dinner in pots large enough to bathe a baby in, and frequently lament over the insufficient size of convenience appliances like mixers, waffle irons, and crock pots – and you compromise by owning two of each.

43. Your car is large enough to hold the entire family, but if you go camping, you have to rent a trailer just to hold all the camping equipment.

44. You can't believe with the size of the larger RVs out there that they couldn't fit more beds into at least ONE of them, and you really wish they'd design one with two bathrooms!

45. If you see a home design with a Master Retreat room, you think what a great nursery it would make.

46. You can quote entire pages from Dr. Seuss without having to pause to think about it, and can sing any number of Raffi or Disney songs from memory.

47. You can think of more than three great Christmas gifts for a child of any age... Because you always have a child close to the age in question!

48. You have at least one story stored up for each of your kids which is guaranteed to embarrass them if you recount it in public.

49. You know, and are thankful, that when they get too old to send to their rooms, that possession of the car keys gives you the ultimate power!

50. When the first two kids move out, you can't believe how much smaller your family feels.

51. You think that a mini-van is just too small to be a practical family car - but you wish they'd make a shopping cart about that size!

52. Getting the whole family to fit into the Wal-Mart photo booth, and then getting a picture when nobody is crying, making bunny ears, blinking, or sticking their finger in their nose is a major triumph!

53. Your stretchmarks might better be described as "pleats".

54. Your kids don't need as many toys, because they always have someone to play with.

55. Other people dream of buying a Porche or other sports car, but all you can think is that it wouldn't be good for anything because it is not cheap enough for your husband to commute in, and it doesn't have enough seats for the family, and there's no WAY you are going to let your teenager drive that!

Written by Laura Wheeler~

Peanut Butter Cups solve everything

2007-10-26T10:46:00.000-04:00

Ok,they are my ALL time faves,I'm not a big candy person but I can't turn one down.
My youngest had never had one before today,(I'm not sure how he's survived 18 months without one but anyway)My middle girlie brought some little ones home from a halloween thingy at school yesterday so I gave them all 1 today.He just kept looking at me and holding his little cute hands up so I gave it to him.He's not been feeling well and been awfully cranky this last week but boy he perked up after this!
I knew it all along,they really do work miracles.

the 1st PB cup

Pumpkin Patch!

2007-10-20T23:02:00.001-04:00

Chicken soup please?

2007-10-16T16:19:00.000-04:00

Well,I'm sick,I've been fighting it for days hoping I would get better on my own but I finally broke down and went to the Dr today.I've had a cough,sore throat,congestion,fever,etc etc He said I have bronchitis and a slight case of Pneumonia and gave me a shot of anti-biotic and a prescription to take for the next 2 weeks.I have pretty much zero energy and every muscle in my body is aching right now.
These are the times that I wish I could put on my robe and get in bed with some hot tea and rest,but that's not likely to happen.If I tried to get in the bed it would be less than 5 minutes before I had at least 2-3 kiddies in there with me stealing my pillows and forcing me to watch spongebob.

LOL ;o)

2007-10-16T15:02:00.001-04:00

Amy --

[adjective]:

Visually addictive

'How will you be defined in the dictionary?' at QuizGalaxy.com

My new yard decor

2007-10-14T20:31:00.000-04:00

Yep,that's right folks,this is the ghoulish scene I awoke to this fine Sunday morning.The trees,the bushes,they spared nothing.Lovely isn't it?

Get this,not only were we lavished in TP but are you ready for this....we were also PLASTIC-WARED!!!They actually took boxes of plastic spoons and forks and stuck them in the yard,all upright in rows.It reminded me of a little utensil graveyard.I'm tellin ya,teenagers these days are creative!I haven't gotten upset about this really due to the fact that I myself partook in a TP adventure a time or two in my day,but shoot it was nothing like this.
In fact at 1st glance I assumed that this was the handywork of my teen sons male friends but upon closer inspection I'm inclined to believe this could be the work of (GASP) GIRLS! He and the friend that stayed over last night were gabbing on the phone with the 2 females that live within walking distance of our house,also the detail and time that was put into this TP job,it was meticulous almost DECORATIVE!
The way they draped and layered,the strategic placement of the empty cardboard rolls,no 14 year old male would have been capable of this display.Not to mention that inspiring use of plastic-ware,truly amazing.

Autumn at the Pink House

2007-10-12T11:02:00.000-04:00

I am loving this chilly weather,it's pretty dreary and dark out today but fall is definitely here! There are festivals all over this weekend and I'm hoping the sun will come out at least.What a wonderful weekend it would be for the pumpkin patch!

A crisp fall day at the grandparents~

2007-10-11T11:20:00.001-04:00

I have surely died and gone to fried food heaven

2007-10-08T16:45:00.000-04:00

One of my friends was telling me the other day about ordering fried mac n cheese at a fave restauraunt and it sounded too good to be true.(drool drool)I haven't been able to get that heavenly vision out of my mind. I think I've actually seen it on a menu before but never tried it.I decided to look it up on the food network site and came up with this.......
Holy cow,could we get any better than PAULA DEENS fried mac n cheese!!!!!!!!!
I'm going to have to try this,it's not something I would eat often and I'm pretty sure 1-2 pieces would put you over the reccomended daily fat-intake for humans but hey,we only live once right!!!??

Deep Fried Mac and Cheese Recipe courtesy Paula Deen
Peanut oil, for frying
1 recipe "The Lady's Cheesy Mac" prepared, chilled in the refrigerator overnight, and cut into 15 bite-sized squares, recipe follows
Flour, for dredging
1 egg, beaten
Plain bread crumbs, for dredging

Heat 2 inches of oil in a large, heavy Dutch oven to 350 degrees F.
Dredge each Cheesy Mac square in flour, then egg, and then bread crumbs to coat. Fry for about 1 minute on each side until golden brown. Drain on paper towels before serving.

"The Lady's Cheesy Mac":
4 cups cooked elbow macaroni, drained
2 cups grated Cheddar
3 eggs, beaten
1/2 cup sour cream
4 tablespoons butter, cut into pieces
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup milk

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
Once you have the macaroni cooked and drained, place in a large bowl and while still hot, add the Cheddar. In a separate bowl, combine the remaining ingredients and add to the macaroni mixture. Pour macaroni mixture into a casserole dish and bake for 30 to 45 minutes. Top with additional cheese, if desired.

I would love to take a walk down this road,wonder where it would lead me?

2007-10-08T12:32:00.001-04:00

What the heck?

2007-10-07T13:53:00.000-04:00

Isn't it October people?? Geez Looweez it's hot here! I don't like it,not one little bit.I'm waiting patiently for the crisp chilly fall air that should be coming by now,they say it's on it's way by the middle of the week.It better be!
Well,today I've been doing some heavy duty cleaning that I know my back will be sorry for tomorrow morning but I can't look at all the mess and kid grime any longer.
The baseboards and floors,etc etc etc It never ends around here.
There was one job that's been facing me for months and I finally got it done today.I'd been using my dining room table for a catch-all since around February and it was loaded up,I couldn't even make out the tablecloth on it anymore. I cleared it all off,put it all where it should be and did it up for fall/thanksgiving.I'll post a pic when I get it a little more prettied up.I'm sooooo happy to get that done,I had been avoiding that for as long as possible.
I got another couple pumpkins from our garden,that makes 8 in total!WOW! I'm amazed.
The raccoons and deer gobbled all the corn tho,I got one ear out of all that I planted.Oh well.I know I planted beans too,hmmmm wonder what became of those???
It's spaghetti night here and I'm looking forward to 2 of my fave shows,"Desperate Housewives" and "Brothers and Sisters",LOVE them!
No school tomorrow so I'm not even going to fret about baths and homework tonight.
Maybe I'll turn the air on really low and make some hot chocolate,I can dream can't I??!!

Make your own pizza night!

2007-10-05T08:46:00.000-04:00

I try to let the kids do this every couple weeks and they LOVE it!I think they enjoy making them more than eating them.Sometimes we use pizza crusts,other times english muffins or even those flat pitas work well too.I'm amazed at the interesting topping combos they come up with.My youngest girlie insisted she wanted fruit snacks and mushrooms on hers but we just went with mushrooms in the end.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

2007-10-04T19:45:00.000-04:00

We all probably know someone,a friend or family member (or perhaps even yourself) that has been touched in some way by this.
I know a few survivors myself and one of them is someone very ,very close to me.
I had a lump several years ago and thankfully turned out to be nothing but back then(9 years ago)we weren't as vigilant as we are now.I thought for sure it was a death sentence,now I know that it doesn't have to be.
One of the wonderful ladies blogs that I visit is fighting right now,I've found her posts very encouraging and she shows strength that I'm not sure I could.
In honor of the month and all the courageous women who have fought or are presently fighting,I have so much admiration and respect for all of you.
Please click this link,every time we do more money is raised for mammograms.

http://www.thebreastcancersite.com/clickToGive/home.faces?siteId=2

This time last year some of my wonderful family and I attended a "Horizon of Hope" luncheon at The Longaberger Homestead,it was amazing.There was a woman speaking who was also a survivor and I learned so much that day.I thought I knew alot about it but we can always learn and know more.
Be aware
Be informed
Do your self exams!
Have the mammogram
HOPE~

Hello October

2007-10-04T19:28:00.000-04:00

Well,I'm still here,it's been a bit crazy around here lately.I won't go into all of it but I'm hoping and praying that things calm down soon.I need them to.
I so love this time of year but it's been difficult for me to really "get into it" so far.I'm decorating the house for Halloween but I'm usually done by now,just not as motivated as I've been in the past.I know I still have a little time and I'm really trying.I've always adored Autumn but never was a huge fan of Halloween itself till I had kids.I think they look forward to it just about as much as they do Christmas!
The costume debates go on for weeks,they love decorating and the spookier the better.The pumpkin carving is huge and the night before Trick or Treat night I doubt they even sleep.I've really learned to enjoy it so much more over the years.
I've gotten several new magazines in the mail and I just love the fall/halloween issues!I have found a few recipes that I want to try,one for pumpkin rice krispie treats that will be going to the school "fall party".
Here it is,they just look too cute!

Ingredients:
3 tablespoons margarine or butter
1 (10 ounce) package marshmallows (about 40), or 4 cups miniature marshmallows
6 cups Kelloggs Rice Krispie cereal
1/2 tsp. orange food coloring PLUS 10 extra drops

You will need:
Pumpkin shaped cookie cutter to make the pumpkin shape

For the Stems:
Green apple licorice (about 4 1/2, cut into 1-inch stems)

Instructions:
1. Melt margarine or butter in large saucepan over low heat. Add marshmallows and stir until completely melted. Remove from heat.

2. Add the rice krispie cereal and orange food coloring. Stir until well coated.

3. Using a buttered spatula or waxed paper, press mixture evenly into a 13 x 9 x 2-inch pan coated well with cooking spray. Using the pumpkin shaped cookie cutter, cut out treats. Let treats cool and place the green apple licorice pieces on top for the stems. Enjoy.

Miss me?

2007-10-01T17:02:00.000-04:00

I'm experiencing a blog-drought.
Have no fear I'll be back.;o)

Yummy Recipe

2007-09-25T08:34:00.001-04:00

I got this recipe in my e-mail today,I love gingerbread and pumpkin so hey I can't go wrong with this one!I'm making it this weekend.
It came from this book (which I LOVE!)

Pumpkin Gingerbread Cake
3 c. sugar
1 c. oil
4 eggs
2/3 c. water
15-oz. can pumpkin
2 t. ground ginger
1 t. cinnamon
1 t. allspice
1 t. nutmeg
1 t. ground cloves
3-1/2 c. all-purpose flour
2 t. baking soda
1/2 t. baking powder
1-1/2 t. salt
Garnish: 8-oz. container frozen whipped topping, thawed
Beat together sugar, oil and eggs. Add water; mix well. Beat in pumpkin and spices; set aside. In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking soda, baking powder and salt. Stir into pumpkin mixture just until dry ingredients are moistened. Pour into a greased 13"x9" baking pan; bake at 350 degrees for about 45 minutes, until a toothpick tests clean. Cool slightly. Serve warm or cold, garnished with whipped topping. Serves 12

I'm back!

2007-09-24T08:44:00.000-04:00

Wow,it's been several days since I posted! This past weekend has been amazing,I'm still absorbing it and trying to wrap my brain around it all and I'll post about it when I do.
Happy Fall y'all,yesterday was the official 1st day of Autumn!!!I have 6 pumpkins so far out of my garden,I can't believe they actually came up but they did!
I got a few ears of corn but other than that nothing else.I'm still learning,maybe next year it will do better.
I made this incredible cake yesterday from http://cherryhillcottage.typepad.com/cherryhill_cottage/2007/09/a-daisy-of-a-ch.html
(I can't get the little linky thingy to work for some reason)
if you like chocolate this is the cake for you!!! YUMMO!!!!

I'm off to spend my day cleaning,it usually takes me all day to get the house in order after all the kids and hubby have been home all weekend,me being in a constant dream state since Friday night hasn't helped either!lolMore to come on that later............

Lighten up

2007-09-18T13:40:00.000-04:00

Well,my last post was a bit heavy so I thought I'd post something a little cheerier.
I've been guilty of "blog neglect" the last several days so I've got alot of random stuff swirling around in my head.
It was an absolutely gorgeous weekend,very autumn like and even a bit chilly in the mornings.I've noticed alot of the older trees around our yard are starting to turn and some are already losing leaves.
We did the soccer game on Sat and I watched a movie that I had been wanting to see,it was long but I didn't get bored with it at all.I liked it alot and would watch it again. It was light and charming,very romantic.I've never been a huge fan of Jude Law but he was just adorable in this.

Sunday I took my 2 oldest girlies to a huge outdoor mall close to us.We walked and ate lunch at "The Cheesecake Factory"(one of my all time fave restaraunts,thanks JP for introducing me!)It was a nice afternoon.
This is a bit of a hoot,one of the kids made a comment on Sat about popcorn and asked how we made it in the "old days".I explained to them that you put the kernels in the big pot with oil and etc etc Well,they just thought that was nutty so I bought a jar of good ol Orville kernels and got out the pot.(they all stared at the jar too,like what the heck are those?)I'm telling you they were fascinated by the whole process.When it started poopping really loud and fast one of the boys yells "the pan will explode!" Oh gosh I had to laugh.
Once it was done,I salted and buttered it just like my dad used to do and handed it over to them.(it brought back alot of memories for me actually,I can't recall the last time I made it like this)
They grabbed up big handfulls and all kind of looked at each other for a minute,my oldest daughter says"this tastes weird".They all nodded in agreement and conitinued stuffing it in their mouths.
They just can't believe that we survived,even thrived before the microwave!

Regret

2007-09-18T10:49:00.000-04:00

Seems simple enough doesn't it?

September 18, 2007
The Weight Of The Past
Regret
Holding onto regret is like dragging the weight of the past with us everywhere we go. It drains our energy, leaving less available for life in the present because we are constantly feeding an old issue. This attachment can cause illness the same way watering a dead plant creates decay. We know that something new and beautiful can grow in its place if we only prepare the soil and plant the right seeds. We also know that we create our lives from our thoughts, so dwelling on the past may actually recreate a situation in our lives where we are forced to make the choice again and again. We can choose to move on right now by applying what we have learned to the present and perhaps even sharing with others, transforming the energy into something that is constructive and creative for ourselves and others.

Forgiveness is the soothing balm that can heal regret. In meditation, we can imagine discussing the issue with the self of our past and offering our forgiveness for the choice. In return, we can ask for our selves’ forgiveness for keeping them locked in that space of judgment for so long. We may also want to ask forgiveness from anyone else who may have been affected and perhaps offer our forgiveness. By replaying the event in our minds, we can choose a new ending using all that we now know. Imagine that you have actually gone back into the past and made this change, and then say goodbye to it. Release your former self with a hug and bring the forgiveness and love back with you to the present. Since we are usually our harshest critics, it is amazing how powerfully healing it can be to offer ourselves love.

Keeping our minds and our energy fully in the present allows us to fuel our physical and emotional healing and well-being today. This action frees our energy to create the dreams we dream for the future. By taking responsibility and action in the present, we can release our hold on the past.

TAKEN FROM~~~http://www.dailyom.com/

Comfort

2007-09-13T17:53:00.000-04:00

I've been feeling a bit better today,more together than I have been in at least a week or so.It's really warm today again but there is definitely a "fall" feeling in the air.It was even a tad chilly this morning.
Thought I'd write about a few things that I'm grateful for today and some favorite autumn images.
1)My family~couldn't make it without them
2)My friends~(same)
3)hot coffee on a fall morning
4)my quilts
5)autumn
I have many more but this is what's been in my mind alot today.Sometimes we all need some comfort in our lives,whether it's a hug from your child,a warm thought from a loved one,a cozy quilt at night,or just a cup of hot coffee.Every little bit helps to encourage and to warm the soul.

A moment to remember

2007-09-11T22:04:00.000-04:00

"I cried that day,I cried today and I will cry tears forever to reach the heavens"~unknown

Anniversary poem for September 11th.
Read before the United States Senate
by Senator John Kerry on September 4, 2002.~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The Eleventh Of September
Written by Roger J. Robicheau ©2002
The Poetic Plumber www.thepoeticplumber.com

We mourn their loss this day this year
Those now with God, no danger near

So many loved ones left do stand
Confronting loss throughout our land

My heart goes out to those who do
No one can fathom what they view

I firmly pray for peace of mind
Dear God please help each one to find

And to our soldiers now at war
God guide above, at sea, on shore

They are the best, I have no doubt
Our country’s pride, complete, devout

The finest force you’ll ever see
All freedom grown through liberty

One final thought comes clear to me
For what must live in infamy

Absolutely - We’ll Remember
The Eleventh - Of September

©2002 Roger J. Robicheau

Still here

2007-09-11T21:48:00.000-04:00

I had a pretty rough weekend,alot going on and too much swirling in my head.Soemtimes I get into a real funk and it takes a bit of doing to get out of it,but I'm here.
Just thought I'd share some pics I've taken in the last few days.the 1st ones are the kids playing around in the Halloween costumes,a few from the festival,and some of my 2 youngest girlies playing miss divas. The last ones are my youngest daughter giving my youngest a RIDE on the bar stool!He got a huge kick out of it,I've never heard him laugh so hard.
It was such a nice day today,finally feeling like fall.

Happy Saturday!

2007-09-08T12:16:00.001-04:00

Well,it's extremely hot and humid today again,not feelin like fall people!!

My 2nd oldest son had his 1st official soccer game today,(the same son that put his head though the hanger)he seems to like it so far. He made a pretty amusing comment to me last night,we were reading a kids version of the bible and it's pretty vauge and lacks much detail.So after we get done with it he looks directly at me and says"so basically Jesus dies and god has to do ALL the work now?" LOL,that was his take on it.

Back to his game~
Here he is getting a bit of direction

and he's off!

They got less goals than the other team,(at this age they don't "officially" keep score although some parents do anyway)but they all had fun and got good and sweaty.

I went to my parents house yesterday and for some reason my mom has been gathering things up that she thinks that I might want for myself or the kids.They're up in age and I guess it's on her mind.

anyway she gave me a bag of my old baby clothes,doll clothes,etc She also gave me this..................

It's my thermos from my Holly Hobbie lunchbox that I used in elementary school!!!!
She said she had the actual metal box some place.I can't believe she saved it all these years but you know what,it's very neat to have it now.It makes me glad that I'm saving little things like that for my kids,someday they'll be glad I did.
I took a couple pics of the kids while we were there.
My dad playing the keyboard

Some toys they loaded them up with

It was nice to spend the time with them and the kids love going there,it's always an adventure.
There's a big festival going on around these parts this weekend and I really want to go but I'm going to hang out till tomorrow and hope it gets a little bit cooler.We try to go every year and it sure would be a shame to miss all that greasy festival food.
My oldest rode his bike up with friends(it's right up the road from us)and I'm a little sad about it.He's always gone with us in the past.Someone needs to slow down this growing up train my kids seem to be on,I want them to get off!!!!!

I'm trying a new recipe tonight for Roasted red potatoes w/ rosemary and garlic,it sounds so good.I got it from this book,(which is gorgeous by the way)There are some beautiful pics and great recipes.I love all these books but I think this one is my new fave.

I'll post the recipe if it turns out to be yummy.

2 weeks from tonight!

2007-09-07T16:45:00.000-04:00

Concert Review taken from LA magazine~
Los Angeles, Gibson Amphitheater - A video projection screen drops down center displaying a video montage of Australian native rocker Rick Springfield during his early days up until present. The video included his stint as a Dr. Noah Drake on General Hospital and a cartoon version of Springfield as the crowd gave a thunderous applause. When you think of Springfield you might grin and giggle but he is no laughing matter. His is a talented musician that kicks ass. At 57, he has more energy than guys half his age and he had more energy than the Eveready bunny. He is obviously the happiest when he is performing in stage and it shows from the very first note until the last encore song, Springfield had the audience mesmerized.

"Mesmerized" I will be.I can not wait!!!

May I introduce to you...........................

2007-09-06T21:11:00.000-04:00

you talkin to me???

paaaaalleeeease

my cat with the serious "tude"

This is Rosie, and yes he's a boy.When I named him I mistakenly thought that he was a girl,well he's been pretty irritated and resentful ever since.(can ya tell?)

Have you heard the saying"walk softly and carry a big stick"? Well,that's him.

He's quiet and can be loveable at times but he defintely "rules the school",all the other cats around here seriously clear a path when they see him coming.

My little ones have dressed him up,tried to give him a bath in the washing machine,put pink princess hair clips in his fur,and once tried to strap him to a Power Rangers vehicle.(I always saved him before any damage was done)

He never bit them or scratched them or even let out a good meow about it all,he just tolerated it.I figure he must really love them to be tortured like that.

I'm pretty sure that he might benefit from some therapy at some point though.

He's a nice cat and I love him but as you can see he can be quite moody when he doesn't get his food on time.(see 2nd pic,he looks at me like this every morning)

Guess he fits right in with all the others around here.;o)

Yum

2007-09-05T15:49:00.000-04:00

Go window shopping now!
http://www.house-on-the-hill.net/index.html

Walkin in Mommys shoes

2007-09-04T19:29:00.001-04:00

UGH

2007-09-04T18:28:00.000-04:00

I have a cold and 3 of my kids have it too.It's been a runny nose,coughing,and sneezing marathon around here today.
I had a Drs appt for my back this morning and I have another one tomorrow.I dread going,right now my back is the least of my pain compared to the elephant sitting on my head.
My next to oldest son has a school open house tonight and I just had to send the hubby.I couldn't take the thought of sitting in that 150 degree school room on those itty bitty plastic torture chairs for an hour.
We had a bit of excitement earlier today when the same son decided to see if his head could fit thru a plastic hanger.It did,but it was a bit more difficult getting it to come back off.(I'm AMAZED that he got it over his head to begin with seeing as though all my kids have been blessed with a giant round head like mine)
The beautiful weather we had over the weekend is gone and it's HOT again,yuk and double yuk.It's been such a scorching summer around here,butI keep thinking this time next month things will be cooling off and the leaves will be turning,I'm really looking forward to that.

Hubby always says "I'm a real "piece of work" ~lol

2007-09-03T11:54:00.000-04:00

Silliness,milestones,and rolls

2007-09-02T22:06:00.000-04:00

My kids were acting even sillier than usual today so I took some pics.
The hat belongs to my oldest son,the boys were actually fighting over it.I know it must have been because it was so cold and all.
The weather has been FANTASTIC for the last 2 days and it's so nice to not be sweating every time you set your foot outside!
I can not believe it's september already,it seems like summer break just began and now the kids have been back in school for almost 2 weeks.
I soooo can not wait for fall to roll in!
We did some bedroom switch-a-roo with the kids rooms today,it started out being just one and somehow it turned into 3.My oldest daughter wanted to move up to the attic,(it's finished with a full bath etc)so we started that then decided to go ahead and move the youngest into her room.(He's been sleeping in our bedroom since he was born)I'm having conflicting feelings about this.I know he needed to be in his own room and he went right to sleep without even a whimper but well,shoot.....I miss him!
He's my baby and now he's not going to be right there where I can see him and hear him.I should be used to little milestones like this by now but it never gets any easier no matter how many times you go through it. What on earth an I going to do when one of them goes to college,or (GULP) GETS MARRIED!!!???
I remember my mom telling me about all these little moments of "letting go",of course I didn't listen and thought she was being overly emotional but it's true.She was right,watching your kids grow up is wonderful and excruciating at the same time.I think she always called it "bittersweet.
Yep,I'm in for a long road.
So anyway after we did as much moving around as we could stand today(all I did was tell hubby where to put stuff actually) I attempted something I have never done before in my life,I made homemade rolls!! I've wanted to try to make bread or biscuits or something but these sounded fairly easy and I had pot roast cooking in the crock pot all day.It just sounded so good together.
I think they turned out ok,(well actually a little flat and they tasted more like biscuits to me)but the kids really gobbled them up.I was pretty proud of myself,the thought of making bread has always been intimidating to me on every level.lol
proof~

Well,tomorrow is the official end to summer,bring on FALL!!!!

Someone must have written this for me

2007-09-02T21:47:00.000-04:00

It comes in threes

2007-08-31T08:55:00.000-04:00

We've had another death in our family,the 3rd in 3 months.I don't know how many times I've heard that "well,they say death comes in 3s" in the last 2 days.
Maybe it's true,if it is that will end it for a very long time I hope.
I just feel sad.

Steel Magnolias~

2007-08-30T13:10:00.000-04:00

This is one of my all time fave movies and I caught it on TV last night around 10:00 pm or so.I was so tired but I had to stay up and see it to the end.I had forgotten how much I liked the movie and it never fails that I always cry through that last 1/2 an hour.Hubby sat and watched it with me although of course he doesn't "get it".I actually had to explain to him what a "Steel Magnolia" meant.
I explained to him that southern women are sometimes referred to as "Steel Magnolias" meaning very strong but delicate and beautiful at the same time.
He was really clueless.
Anyway as I sobbed through to the end I took great notice of the very last line of the movie,the lead character (played by Sally Field,whom I adore)has lost her daughter etc etc and just smiles and says"life goes on"
It's so simple but I've found myself saying this over and over in my life recently.
It really does just simply go on,no matter what happens it must.
Bad things happen,things you don't expect or feel you deserve but you get through,you find strength and pull yourself up every day.Some days are easier than other days but we still do it.
I have to much good,too much love and too much faith to just crawl in a corner and never come out again.I've certainly felt like doing that before but not now,not today.
I've always fancied myself a southern girl at heart so a "Steel Magnolia" would surely be something that I would feel honored to be,at least in my mind.
You know come to think of it,I know alot of women that deserve that title.They may not be from the south but they are some of the most strong and beautiful women I know.
I'm going to have to go hunt through my old DVDs,I think I want to watch this one again.;o)

LOL

2007-08-29T09:45:00.000-04:00

My Peculiar Aristocratic Title is:
Viscountess Amy the Incomplete of Pease Pottage
Get your Peculiar Aristocratic Title

I actually kinda like the sound of that.

Fried Zucchini

2007-08-27T20:33:00.000-04:00

Well,not only am I up to my ears in tomatoes but I also have a 5 gallon bucket of Zucchini sitting on my counter now.I made this today,not the most healthy snack I know but I only ate a couple and the the kids ate the rest.I know,BAD mom.lol
It was awfully yummy tho.

Fried Zucchini~

2-3 med Zuchs
1 C flour
1/2 C egg beaters
2 TBSP Paula Deens House seasoning(garlic powder,salt,and pepper)

Heat a fairly deep skillet with some olive oil and canola oil,(I use mostly canola)
cut the Zuchs lengthwise then in half into fairly thick strips,dip in egg beaters and toss with flour and seasoning in a large ziploc bag.
Cook till brown and inside is tender,about 5-6 min each side.
Serve with horseradish sauce or marinara

Our Sunday Adventure~

2007-08-26T19:03:00.000-04:00

Well,we all had a good time and it's been a long day.The oldest son chose skateboarding over our little outing but that's ok.The last pic is him jumping over something I think.

Happy Sunday!

2007-08-26T09:52:00.000-04:00

Well so far my weekend has been busy.I stayed up way too late on Friday night and I felt it all day yesterday!I was draggy and sluggish even with 3 cups of coffee in me.
I cleaned,did some laundry,the usual.I planned on making some zucchini bread but I just couldn't get motivated,maybe another day.
I took my oldest son and one of his co-horts to the skatepark late in the day then went grocery shopping.Have you ever heard 2 13 year old boys having a conversation?From what I could make out there was lots of talk about energy drinks and some bands that I had never heard of,also alot of technical skateboard terms that after all these years I still don't understand.
I ended up with 3 13 year old boys spending the night at my house,(not clear on where the 3rd came from,I just noticed him around 11:00 pm or so digging in the fridge)They went through a 10 pack of frozen burritos,1 bag of chips,a whole jumbo jar of salsa,and several cans of what I think are energy drinks.(why on Earth do kids this age think they need MORE energy??!!)
I've been up with the little one since 6:30 and so far I'm feeling pretty good.
(amazingly the loud teens didn't keep me up like they usually do)
It's a beautiful day today and I'm planning on packing up the whole crew and going here.....................................

There is alot more there than just the cool bridge.I'm thinking I might even get some sort of picnic together to take.I hope I can pull it off.
It's a beautiful place and I'm hoping to get some pics.

I have a new love in my life

2007-08-25T21:18:00.000-04:00

I've been hearing about this "Chai Tea" stuff for months now but it never sounded good to me.I'm pretty happy with my coffee and I didn't think I could be swayed.
Well,I read a blog post recently,(I swear I wish I could remember which one but I don't)the gal was raving about it so I thought what the heck?
I bought some at the store and made it according to the package directions.
I was very suprised by the taste!It's sweet and cinnamon-y and even kind of spicy.
I must say it was quite tasty and I can see how this stuff could be VERRRY addictive.
If you've never tried it I would suggest trying it iced with a little sugar and cream,(I used splenda and fat free half and half,the fancy name for this at S-bucks is Chai Latte) I easily downed 2 glasses of the stuff without realizing it!
I'ts a great alternative to coffee for that little afternoon pick-me-up,and what a great flavor for fall!
I think my coffee maker is getting jealous

Check her out~

2007-08-23T10:22:00.000-04:00

I was sent a link to this blog from a "Large Families" group that I belong to,and HAD to pass it along.What a hoot this lady is!
She's real,down to earth,and just plain hilarious.
Whether you have 2 kids or 10 I think we can all relate!

mom2my6pack.blogspot.com

Dream~~

2007-08-23T10:04:00.000-04:00

I woke up to my alarm at 6:20 this morning and I instantly remembered the dream I was having.It was a nice dream,a peaceful dream,a happy dream.I wasn't being held hostage by intruders,or running thru the woods with no place to go.(these are recurring dreams of mine that I have at least every other week or so)
This was me in a house with ALL my family members,even ones I haven't seen in YEARS.
It was Christmas time and we were all just sitting,talking and openeing presents.I don't remember any words that were spoken but I could "feel" what it felt like.(if that make sense)
I woke up feeling more refreshed and at peace than I have in weeks,especially the last week or so.
It was nice.

They left

2007-08-21T09:23:00.000-04:00

Well,my babies are off to school today.My oldest 2 to Junior High and my middle 2 to 1st and 3rd grade.It's just me and little squirts now.How did this summer go by so fast?I'm feeling a little empty today.

We had an end of summer vacation dinner last night and I let them choose anything they wanted.Yep,they wanted CHINESE!It never fails.How come they never want me to cook??

Party all the time!

2007-08-20T16:41:00.000-04:00

This past Saturday night we went to a party at the home of some very special people. They mean alot to me and I want them to know it.I had a great time and it was definitely just what the Dr ordered.I needed to be with my family,I needed to chat and to laugh,and watch the kids play.I needed to feel that warmth and love.
Thank you L&B for inviting us to your lovely new home,thank you for getting my mind off of recent events,thank you for being there.(even tho B tried to "off" me with the peach thing lol)Luv ya
When can I come back??? ;o)

My parents~alive and well,an image that I will cherish

A few of my fave things from my yard

2007-08-20T15:26:00.000-04:00

I'm not feeling great today,not sick or overly tired just sore and achy still.I was told that I could feel this way for weeks,especially if I overdo (which I think I might have the last couple of days)There has just been alot to do around the house and it just doesn't get done unless I do it, school shopping to do etc etc.The walk around the mall with my girls was too much I think. I guess I should pace myself a bit for awhile.
The baby was asleep and the other kids were watching a movie so I took a little walk around the yard.I do that sometimes just to clear my head,believe it or not that short little jaunt around the house getting some air can do wonders.
I took some pics,my garden has actually produced some corn and pumpkins!I'm in shock

some green tomatoes

a pumpkin!

yes,there are leaves falling from my trees already

my little angel,she's been sitting on the porch steps keeping watch for 3 years now

Mrs Duck and her fancy fall hat

all the tomatoes my mother-in-law sent over,guess I'll be making sauce till it comes out my ears!

MUMS just scream fall

some roses,looking pretty sad this year

pretty

I like the color of these

Look,I actually have some real CORN!

Funny,not more than 20 minutes after I took these it started pouring down rain and it looks like we might be in for some pretty bad storms.

Movin on

2007-08-17T17:10:00.000-04:00

It's now been 3 days since the accident and I'm doing ok,not great but very ok.I'm sore but today was better than yesterday and I'm hoping that's a trend.My parents are still sore and achy but they seem in good spirits. I finally got a rental car today.I must admit to being quite freaked out when I 1st got behind the wheel again.
I wonder if everyone who's been through something like this feels that way?I can't imagine not being nervous,even a little paranoid.
My life is going on,my kids are still fighting,still wanting me to do something for them every 2 minutes,still grocery shopping to do,meals to be cooked and there is still much to be done to get ready for school.It's actually been a great distraction,all the school supply shopping,orientations,etc etc
I had promised my oldest daughter she could get a haircut and highlights before school started and her appt was last night.I couldn't trust hubby to take her,who knows what kind of "do" she would've come back with! I went and it was rough,about 1/2 way through the highlight I wanted to lie down in the salon but I popped a motrin I made it to the end.She was happy and ready to show off to all her other little highlighted Junior High friends.
So,after all life really does go on.
Here's my little supermodel in the making with her new highlighted head

Things can change in an instant

2007-08-16T14:16:00.000-04:00

Well,I've sruggled with whether or not to post about this but I feel the need to write about it.It seems that it does help.I always meant to keep this blog rather light and mostly about mommy stuff and daily goings on,but this happened and I can't hide from it.It all does seem quite surreal though.
I'm still very emotional and the sounds and visions of it all are still very raw on my surface.I can't write about all the details just yet but here it is.

My parents were in the car with me,I was driving.We were hit by an SUV going 55 miles per hr and my van was flipped.Thank god none of my children were with us.
Simply by the grace of god we all left the hospital with no broken bones,nothing but some cuts and bruising.The Drs were even amazed.
I belive in god,I believe in angels~I'm sure that they were there in that van with us,I believe in miracles~this past Tuesday I was part of one.
Please hug your kids,kiss your babies,tell your husband or whoever that you love them,let your family and friends know how much they mean to you.Our lives can change in an instant.

Good Morning!

2007-08-12T08:52:00.000-04:00

Well,the little stinker woke me up at 6 in the AM today so I've been up about for almost 3 hours now.I got the notion to make blueberry mufffins and it figures the rare occasion that I want to do that I find out someone has stolen my muffin pan.I seem to recall using it around Easter and now no sign of it.I do have this giant pan with little designs in the bottom that makes the muffins look like different flowers so I tried that.The pan is so big my measly batter only made 5 muffins but they smelled good and looked ok,I'll just have to split them all up amongst the kids somehow.
So after I took this pic of the muffins and downloaded it I noticed some suspicious photos on the my camera.It appears my 2 oldest decided to turn our basement into a casino last night.Here is the poker action that I missed.

Here he is with a rather odd look on his face,I think it has something to do with the tiny little amount of chips he has

Here would be her pile of chips

Obviously she kicked his b--- and thought it was an awesome photo op

Ok,while I definitely DO NOT condone gambling for my children I do find it amusing that she beat him so seriously and obviously took great pride in it!If you knew him and how he's always trying one up her at every turn this must be a real kick for her.
Well shoot,I guess all the excitement happens when I'm asleep.

WOOP WOOP!!

2007-08-10T10:58:00.000-04:00

I've never been so happy to see 82 degrees!!!

Even the cats seemed to be enjoying the break in the heat,this is the 1st time I've seen them up off of the longe chairs in 2 days.lol

Wow

2007-08-09T19:57:00.001-04:00

I promise this is my last "how hot it is"whine-post but ok,this will give a good idea of just HOW HOT it is,(and it's almost 8pm)I just went out to take some pics of my little sad green tomatoes that finally came out but my camera lens steams up as soon as I walk outside and I can't even get a good pic!
This "heat warning" is in effect till tomorrow! I can't recall this kind of heat or actually having an extended warning before.I hope it cools of a bit before the kids go back to school,the elementary doesn't have air conditioning of any sort.(which I've never understood.(it's an old school building and the cost etc etc)
Here is the pic of the tomatoes,you can actually see how the the lens is steamed up.
On another note I have tomatoes!!!! YIPPPEEEE!

Somebody dump some ice on me!

2007-08-09T19:56:00.001-04:00

The last few days have been rough around here,it's been insanely hot(heat index of 110 right now) and the kids have been in the house with nothing to do.We've watched movies,colored,painted,etc etc I basically ran out of stuff to keep them occupied and they just went competely nutty.I was tired and extremely cranky and so were they.
It seemed all they wanted to do was get onto trouble and scream.I was on the edge.
Well,today I woke up gathered my thoughts and put them to work.We cleaned the basement,sprayed off the toys outside,(I sprayed them too which was a big hit)
then we came in and made pizza and lemonade.
They've been good,agreeable and quiet.(not quiet really just not screaming at the top of their lungs)I'm actually getting through this day without getting upset even once! YAY!
I'm so hoping this crazy heat wave lets up soon,it really is draining and quite depressing to tell the truth.I'm telling you even 80 degrees sounds great to me right now!

Sweltering

2007-08-07T15:53:00.000-04:00

It is so,so hot here.There is actually an "Excessive Heat Warning" in effect until tonight for our area.It's 94 degrees right now with a heat index of 105 degress!!!!
They tell you not do any outdoor activities unless it's absolutely nescessary.
No worries on my end,I won't be setting foot out there.The kids even refuse to go out past the porch. I really can't handle this kind of heat,it literally makes me feel sick and the humidity makes it very hard for me to breathe.
I wonder about the people in homes with no air at all,not even fans.I'm counting my blessings today that I'm in an air conditioned enviroment but how many people will get sick or even die in this kind of weather?
I think I'll be saying a prayer for them right now.

Just Me~

2007-08-06T20:51:00.000-04:00

I've seen this on some other blogs and I think it's pretty challenging to come up with 100 facts about yourself. Once I got going tho I didn't want to stop,makes you think.It's almsot cathardic.
So anyway....this is me

1.I'm short
2.I am married
3.I have 7 kids
4.I love babies
5.I love pregnancy and birth
6.I have long hair
7.My hair can't decide what color it wants to be
8.I live in a pink house
9.I love to cook and eat what I make
10.I have developed allergies
11.I can be controlling
12.I love pink
13.I love sexy high heels but never wear them any more
14.I met my hubby in a bar
15.I love bubble baths
16.I hate hot humid weather
17.I love the fall
18.I love Xmas
19.I long for peace and quiet but then when it happens I miss the chaous
20.I like to read
21.I love magazines
22.I had my belly button pierced but it hurt so I took it out
23.I did have fun getting it done tho!
24.I have a monumental crush on Rick Springfield
25.his music is the soundtrack to my life for the last 25 years
26.I had the same boyfriend from age 13-18
27.I dated a lot after that
28.I miss hanging out with other females
29.I love purses
30.I don't like skinny men
31.I pretend to garden but can't
32.I loathe doing dishes
33.I have a mini-van and a maxi -van
34.I love red wine
35.I have a glass 2-3 times a week
36.ok,more like 4-6 times
37.I love roses
38.I was raised by my grandparents
39.I don't see my mother much
40.my fave candy is peanut butter cups
41.sometimes I'm very lonely
42.sometimes I'm very scared
43.sometimes I lose my temper and wish I didn't
44.I have gone thru bouts of anxiety and depression
45.I will struggle with it forever I'm afraid
46.I hate the war
47.I support the troops and cry for the families
48.I am very emotional
49.I love fireflies
50.I'm deathly afraid of bears
51.I'm afraid of dying
52.my biggest fear is losing a child
53.my kids are growing up way too fast
54.I love make-up
55.I like my lips
56.I hate my nose
57.I've had breast implants for 11 yrs
58.by now my implants need some implants
59.my feet have gotten bigger by 2 full sizes since having kids
60.I have SPANX and am not afraid to use them
61.my fave food is mexican
62.I love southern cooking
63.I want to be Paula Deen when I grow up
64.I brush my teeth in the shower
65.I can not sleep by a door,any door
66.I like Elvis
67.I like spooky movies
68.I like romantic comedies
69.I hate ghory violent movies
70.I don't get Borat
71.I'm a tad old fashioned
72.and I like it that way
73.I can't sleep past 9am
74.I would love to be a nurse
75.I love the mountains
76.I love the beach
77.On our 20th wedding anniversary we will renew our vows in Hawaii on the beach~I hope/dream
78.I worry about my friends and family a lot
79.I'm a big time worrier~but I'm working on it
80.I hate bras
81.i have 4 boys
82.I have 3 girls
83.I'm still up in the air about which is more challenging
84.I used to care so much what other people thought of me and my family,I've learned it really doesn't matter
85.I think I was raised to be moral and thoughtful of others
86.I've done stupid things in the past
87.I've done things I would NOT want my kids to know about
88.I can't sing worth a dime
89.I've never met my father
90.I love coffee
91.I need to lose weight
92.I try to be a good mom
93.I love what I'm doing and take it very seriously
94.I'm 40
95.wouldn't want to be 20 again
96.I'm not overly political
97. I love the internet
98.I think the internet can be a wonderful thing
99.I think the internet can also be a an evil ,horrendous tool in the wrong hands
100.I appreciate every moment of my life

Whew!

2007-08-06T14:01:00.000-04:00

I just finished making a list of all I have to do in the next 2 weeks before the kids go back to school,all I can say is YIKES!I have 4 in school this year and 1 possibly going to pre-school.I've got to get back to school clothes,which the oldest 3 refuse to let me pick out anymore so that means a 3-day jaunt to let them pick out all the stuff that I won't like. I do feel it's important to let them be individuals though so I'm ok when they look at what I pick and take off running.
I need to get the massive amount of school supplies required for all 4,which means I might need an extra van to bring them all home in.
the endless search for a "cool" new book bag
Drs appointments
dentist appts
1 eye appt
soccer sign up for 1 of them
a hair appt for my oldest daughter who says she's not going to Junior High without a cut and highlights(she is her Mommas daughter after all!)
jr high orientation
and some other odds and ends activities and errands that must be done by the Big "1st Day".
So, I have 2 weeks to accomplish all this and the thought alone is wearing me out. The tradition of going back to school has seemed to turn into a huge ordeal around here over the years,but to tell you the truth I do enjoy it.They seem genuinely excited which I think is WONDERFUL. I have to admit I'm looking forward to a little slower pace during the day myself.

My new fave candle

2007-08-05T14:29:00.001-04:00

Ok,I know it's still a bit early to decorate for fall,although personally I think it's NEVER too soon for Fall or Xmas decorating,but I found this new scent and it's gotta be me my new fave for this fall. I already have it sitting out and yes,I'm burning it all day long! It smells like cinnamon,maple and a ton of other yummy stuff.It's already making me think of the leaves changing and cool crisp air,I can't wait.

My fly~girl

2007-08-05T14:19:00.001-04:00

Ok,this is what my 2 oldest girls do when boredom strikes.They thought it would be fun to see how high one could get in the air when jumping off the end table onto the couch while the other snapped pics with Moms camera.These were take in our den where I was actually sitting on the computer with my back to the action.I had no idea what they were doing(I guess I can engrossed at times)but I think these pics are pretty darn amusing.(I'm thinking she just might have a future in cheerleading too)

Speaking of beans

2007-08-01T13:56:00.000-04:00

The pic above is a TINY portion of the fresh-from-the-garden beans my mother in law sent yesterday.I probably actually have about 4 times that many waiting to be cleaned and cooked in various ways.I love beans,my kids love them too so this is a good thing.What kills me is I planted my garden only about a week or two after she did and I have nothing out there but some sad looking plants that kinda look like they're trying to be beans and a heck of alot of weeds.Between all the deer and the cats using it for one giant litter box it's no wonder I guess.
This is my 1st try at a veggie garden so I'm cutting myself some slack. I figure if I end up with even one whole bean or pumpkin I'ts a success!

New thing I discovered

2007-08-01T10:32:00.000-04:00

I have a new fave thing to use when I'm cooking,it's called "Herbs De Provence".It's a lush combination of spices including Rosemary,Marjoram,Thyme,Savory,Lavendar,and Fennel seed all wrapped up in one fabulous little bottle!! I never knew it even existed until a recipe I was making out of one of Sandra Lees cookbooks called for it.I'm in love with it,the aroma alone will win you over and send you right to the french countryside.(not that I've ever smelled it there but I'm thinking it might be close!)
I've used it on chicken,steaks,even veggies.
My mother in law has been sending me gobs of fresh beans from her garden so I've been whipping this up almost every day,everyone loves it and it makes the house smell Yummy!

3-4 cups beans (fresh or frozen)
3 TBSP olive oil
1 TBSP butter
salt pepper
1-2 TBSP herbs De Provence
fresh grated parmesan cheese

saute beans in olive oil and butter for about 10 min till tender but still crisp
add all ingredients and saute for a few more min
sprinle cheese on top
you could even throw in a handful of pine nuts if you feel like it

Delish!!

Verrrrry Interesting

2007-07-31T15:50:00.000-04:00

Ok,this is in the news today so I thought I'd post about it.I found these very interesting.I can't say that I completely agree with the Womens list in the order they have,but that's just me.Obviously there were no married people in this poll either because in my opinion the reasons can change.One that did NOT suprise me was #10 on the mens list. I always knew that was at the bottom of the list!!!

Top Reasons for Having Sex

Top 10 Reasons for Sex - Men
1. I was attracted to the person
2. It feels good
3. To experience the physical pleasure
4. It's fun
5. To show my affection to the person
6. I was sexually aroused and wanted the release
7. I was "horny"
8. To express my love for the person
9. To achieve an orgasm
10. To please my partner

Top 10 Reasons for Sex - Women
1. I was attracted to the person
2. I wanted to experience the physical pleasure
3. It feels good
4. To show my affection to the person
5. To express my love for the person
6. I was sexually aroused and wanted the release
7. I was "horny"
8. It's fun
9. I realized I was in love
10. I was "in the heat of the moment"

Source: University of Texas at Austin