Up Too Early...but enjoying the view!

Thinking about Dad today

2010-12-14T04:51:00.000-08:00

My dad passed away in December 14th of 2007 and there are some memories I never want to fade especially as my daughter gets older and has more questions. She has started "calling" him on her play phone and tells him what she's doing and what's going on, it's amazing how one moment can bring a tear to your eye and warm your heart at the same time.

I started writing this a couple years ago and add to it when something strikes me that I never want to forget, he was an amazing man. Thinking of you today dad.
_____

My dad was a man who loved a great story, a good joke and the chance to teach anybody something that he knew about. He could captivate an audience, charm anyone and yet seemed a little shy in the oddest of circumstances. He loved a good coat, a good hat and pants that weren’t too long. His daily dress consisted of a button down shirt or a white T-shirt, jeans and a nautical belt. If it was sunny, a hat, since he’d been told to protect his head. He smelled of shaving cream and outside but never cologne. He loved fleece shirts but was picky about them and had a closet full with tags on them to prove it. He could run fast, couldn’t swim well and strolled more than walked.

He was also always ready to teach with a real life lesson. From offering to match anything we’d put into savings to show us the value of planning to setting up pretend fires in the backyard so that we could use a fire extinguisher and understand how it works, he understood the value of teaching someone versus doing it for them. Even though we were girls we knew how to use the tractor, pull start an engine and shoot a gun. Guns were for protection, not play, and having them in the house was never an issue.

He was also never without a tool or a snack. You could ask for any tool out there and not only did he have it, he probably had 3, one still in the package, and would loan it to you. You could ride in his car or truck and there would be snacks in the glove compartment, just in case of an emergency.

He was a man with a schedule and enjoyed his routine. He liked coffee in the morning that wasn’t too hot to drink, lunch at noon and dinner at 5. Whether he was hungry or not, when the clock struck 5 it was dinnertime. Picky he wasn’t and whether it was chicken nuggets or filet mignon, it was just dinner and having it at 5 seemed more important what he was having. In the evenings he enjoyed a good martini, with lots of olives and on those hot summer days there was nothing like a beer, an MGD until he took to Ultra and he never was a Bud man.

At the lake he was in his element. He knew the water and the lake by looking at the shore, knew the weather by the clouds and wind and knew the people he enjoyed spending his time with the most. He was an expert at tying rope and teaching others how to, making trays of drinks for a crowd and putting any boat into the slip, a feat that often seemed like putting a watermelon in a hole that was intended for a lemon. He also enjoyed running the lake at night, a delight to him but I’m sure it scared the life out of many of his guests. He loved a good adventure and the chance to rescue anyone in need.

Weather seemed to always be important to him. From monitoring it for the lake, watching for a full moon so he could spend hours in the hot tub on a cold winter night or run the lake at night in the summer, he always wanted to know what was getting ready to happen, it was all about being prepared and that’s probably why he wasn’t ever crazy about traveling beyond the lake.

He loved children and thought most were sweet but was always willing to sweeten them a little more. For the children on the dock he had long Tootsie Roll logs, for his nephews one Christmas they each received a tool box full of snack and sweets. Easter had it’s own memories and for as long as I can remember we’d awake on Easter morning to baskets full of goodies and the ever present bunny with the teeth marks on the left ear.

He liked the comfort of his home and welcomed others there. For a man who could do so much, ordering food out was never easy, his order was never right. He’s the only person I know that could go to McDonald's for breakfast and they were out of McMuffins, order the special and it’s wrong and finally figured out that it didn’t matter what flavor of turnover he ordered from Arby’s, they would never get it right. He’d take it in stride and grew to expect it.

He was more than just a great man. He was a leader, a teacher, a believer in others, a great storyteller and knew that he would never live to be an old man. For nearly 7 years he packed his days full of life and knew that his days were numbered, while he didn’t talk about it much we knew it was on his mind more than he let anyone know. During those clear nights on the lake when the moon was full and air was cool, or on a snow covered mountain in Montana a certain look would pass over his face and you knew that he was measuring his life against all his dreams and expectations, you knew that this was a man who looked death in the face without fear.

Thought for Thursday...

2010-12-09T06:36:00.000-08:00

Letter to Dad

2010-12-08T05:53:00.000-08:00

Dad, it's Christmas again and although we think about you throughout the year I miss you the most now. I still can't believe it's been nearly three years since you left us. Christmas hasn't been the same since then and to try and put it into one word, its bittersweet.

Hailey is three years old now and so full of life and I think she saved some of our lives. She knows who you are and hears lots of stories and I try not to get caught up in the fact that I wish she would have gotten to know you and you her. I know you never thought you get to see both Emily and I get married, much less hold a grandchild so I remind myself that the little bit of time you did is a blessing and I cherish those pictures. You would love to be around her, she is so much fun and loves to play rough, laugh and ask endless questions. She's an amazing little girl.

I had heard before that when you lose someone at the holidays it changes the holidays for you and I completely agree with that but it's not all bad changes. The hole that felt punched in my chest is healing and Christmas becomes less about shopping and stress and more about savoring. From the lights to the music, it's the little things that I enjoy the most. There are still things that feel more like a holiday chore but sort of like cleaning the bathroom, I'm glad I did it and when it's finished. I know you were never a big fan of the holidays, the disruption and all, but it was always a peaceful time that was full of visits from people and time to play in the snow. Hailey loves playing in the snow and, just like you, seems to suffer from cabin fever very quickly.

We all miss you so much but I know that you were not destined to be an old man. I can recall talking to you throughout the years that it wasn't the cancer that was killing you, it was the treatment and I know you would have been miserable to have aged on this Earth and learn that your body could no longer keep up with your spirit.

I wouldn't ask for one more day with you, we were blessed with so many extra days that I'd feel selfish you ask for one more but know that we miss you and love you.

Faith Like A Rock...or maybe a marshmellow

2010-11-19T04:33:00.000-08:00

Isn't is easy to have faith when life is great, we are overwhelmed with blessing and good news? What about when things get tough? That's when it's easy to question God and say, "really, are you kidding me, are you sure you know what you're doing here"? I have a big problem with this myself and in all honesty my complaints should be few and far between, I am much more blessed than I deserve and try to remind myself of that regularly but when the going gets tough I usually wonder, where is God going with this? I know where doubt, worry and confusion come from and it's not God so I try to remind myself that God already knows His plans for me, he knows my past, where I am at this very moment and what my future holds. He can see the big picture for my life instead of the snapshot that I can see.

It's sort of like looking through a photo album and there is one bad picture of you. You're frowning, your hair is a wreck and you know you look terrible (this album must be at your parents house, certainly not in your album at your house!). Imagine if someone opened the album to that photo and only looked at that one, would that give them an accurate picture of your life? Of course not, it was one bad moment, unfortunately captured on film and, even worse, made it into an album but we do that with our life. We forget about the big picture and take one day, week or year and convince ourselves that our life is terrible, even though we know that it's just a snapshot of a much bigger and very beautiful picture. God loves each of us, more than we can possibly imagine and He doesn't want a life for us that is full of doubt or worry. He wants us to live the beautiful picture that He has created.

Why Wait?

2010-11-09T11:37:00.000-08:00

My 3yr old daughter has recently starting holding hugs and kisses and at any point in a day you can have this conversation with her....
"Can I have a hug?"
"No mommy, not right now."
"Why not?"
"'Cause"
"Because why?"
"Because mommy, I'm saving it for later and it will be better!"

Although I can't help but laugh (and so does she) I also know that the hug she gives me now won't get any better. I think God is the same way. He wants us right now, as we are. He doesn't want us to try and improve ourselves. He wants us to give the little bit of time or money or love that we have at this very moment. He will wait on us as long as we need but we don't need to wait on Him, he's ready with open arms because he knows that we have to offer right now will not be any better later.

What are you entitled to?

2010-11-09T11:10:00.000-08:00

Have you ever thought about what you deserve? Do you deserve the job, friends or family you have? Do you deserve food on your table, the car you drive, the house you live in? Some may say yes but I say no. I don't DESERVE any of those things and I'm certainly not entitled to them. I am BLESSED but not entitled and I think there is a big difference.

You can go into any store and see people frustrated about the check out line (usually not more then 3 people in front of them) and I can't help but think, have you ever been to a country where they wait for HOURS to get the basics? As a society what makes us feel so entitled to get things that we really don't deserve. I see people driving too close, too fast and I can't help but think, what makes you entitled to make someone else think they are in your way when you're both going the same way?

I'd never say that I don't get frustrated or have those moments when I feel more stressed than blessed but I try to remind myself that the opposite is true. I am blessed beyond measure and just because I was blessed enough to be born into a county like the US, doesn't make me entitled to things.

Since I was born on this earth, I am entitled to death. Nothing more. But as a Christian I believe that God wants our life to last much longer than what we have on this earth so he offers an eternal life through his forgiving grace. I am not entitled to eternal life and there is nothing I can do it deserve it, I just have to ask and seek Him in my life. Receiving that is a blessing like none other.

Thought for Thursday...What's Your Purpose?

2010-11-04T12:51:00.000-07:00

Thought for Thursday...Impossible is just a word people use to not TRY

2010-10-28T05:51:00.000-07:00

Is Halloween BAD?

2010-10-27T06:55:00.000-07:00

I was listening to the radio yesterday and, once again, was awestruck by something I heard.

The discussion was Halloween and how many Christians feel that it's a holiday they shouldn't celebrate but just like any other day of the year, God made that day too. Then the discussion went to the fact that many people believe that Halloween is the high holy day for those who worship Satan and that's not the case at all. Their high holy day is their birthday. That's right, whatever that persons birthday is, is their own personal high holy day and here's the point that really struck me. Satan doesn't care whether you worship him or not, he just wants you to worship something OTHER than God. It can by yourself, money, your job, your family, anything at all but make your life and your love all about you. Now how clever and deceptive is that? How many people do you know who say, I love Satan? Probably not many but whether they admit it or not, how people out there love the power that comes with their job, or the money they make at their job? The Bible even says that the LOVE is money is the root of all evil. Got that? Not money itself, God can use money for lots of good things and I firmly believe that those who use their money for Gods will and bless Him with it, will be blessed with more but you still shouldn't love the money but back to my original point...

I went to a Christian school and we had a fall festival and every church you drive by this time of year has signs for a fall festival or trunk-or-treating but I've not seen any that mention the word Halloween, since when is that a bad holiday or bad word? Personally, I really enjoy Halloween and I have no fear in saying that. I've blogged already about enjoying this time of year and Halloween is a part of that. Sure, I steer away from the "scary stuff" but I'm prone to nightmares and I've had my fill of haunted houses over the years.

So this year I will still carve a pumpkin, still dress up my little girl, smile at all the trick-or-treaters and enjoy the day because above all else, it's another day that God made and I will REJOICE and be glad in it! God Bless and Happy Halloween!

Left Behind

2010-10-25T05:38:00.000-07:00

I am back to reading the Left Behind series again, I had taken a break since I didn't have book 6 (Assassins) but finally found it at a discount bookstore and am already half way through it.

Again I am struck but this series and if anyone reading here is hesitant to start it due to the number of books, you can read the first book and stop, I've read the first one numerous times.

The further I get into the series the more and more I am both compelled and awestruck. A part of me wonders, is this a wonderfully written piece of Christian fiction that could, one day, become non-fiction? I cannot imagine the day and am happy to know that I wouldn't be around to see it happen but it also makes me fear and dread those days for those I love and cherish who are too stubborn, busy or careless about their eternal life. If you are curious about these books, I dare you to take a read, challenge yourself and let yourself wonder, what if this is fiction based on truth?

I could be wrong about it all and just living with blind faith but what if I'm right? What if the Bible is true? I'm willing to admit that I could be wrong about it all, but faith tells me that I'm right and I hope you take the time to see for yourself, life on Earth is short, too short to put it off.

Thought for Thursday...YOU ARE WORTHY

2010-10-21T12:51:00.001-07:00

What a Mess!

2010-10-20T12:56:00.001-07:00

I have a wonderful, creative and energetic 3yr old little girl and she often comes to me with knotted hair, some crumbs around her mouth, dirt smeared across her face, a runny nose, clothes that were only clean for the first 10 minutes she was wearing them and hands that have explored, touched and carried more things that I can imagine and in those moments she often wants my attention and a hug. As most moms can attest to, I don't drag her to the tub in those moments, I listen, watch, hug and sometimes wonder how long this will last before it's not my attention she wants or she's "too big" for a hug from mom.

Just like I cherish those moments and minutes I believe that God cherishes the times we come to Him. I believe he is content to watch us from a distant, like I am with my daughter or to hear from others the good work that was done but I believe when we come to Him, talk to Him, share with Him, ask Him to listen, help and guide that He savors those moments like any parent does with a child. Also like any parent He is willing to let us make mistakes, to let us learn the hard way, to figure it out, all the watching and knowing that He could fix it, stop it or guide us.

My daughter has a stubborn streak like so many do at her age but what's my excuse? Why can't I let go and let God more than I do? When do we start "knowing better" and asking first? I don't have answers to these questions but I see the child in her and am reminded of the child I am to God, with my dirty hands and messy face, He is always there and willing.

Give Till It Hurts

2010-10-20T12:46:00.000-07:00

There is a Christian radio station that I really enjoy, in the Louisville, KY area it's on 93.9 but it's called WAY-FM and it's a national station. You can also listen online. I'm not necessarily promoting this station (it's a GREAT station) but they are in the midst of their fall giving campaign and I've been struck by the giving of some people. There have been children giving their birthday money, single moms with little to spare giving all they can and families with tight budgets giving as well. The more I hear, the more I wonder, when was the last time I gave until it hurt?

I'm also reminded of a very dear friend who recently decided with her husband and young child that foreign missions was calling and they sold their house, their belongings, put a few items into storage and packed several suitcases to follow God's call to mission training. Yes, they are in Hawaii for their training but it's not suntans and site seeing. They are seeing God's work in those around them and feeling drawn into the mission field with faith like a child. They are willing and going and giving...until it hurts. I admire their strength and courage, dedication and devotion and I have no doubt that God will use them in an amazing way. I also wonder, when I have faith like that and give until it hurts, what can God do for me and with me?

Change of Seasons

2010-10-20T06:22:00.000-07:00

I LOVE fall. It's certainly my favorite season. I love the colors, the cooler weather, the clothing change from a summer that was too long, the pumpkins and changing leaves, the kids getting ready for Halloween, the amazing sunsets and the ripe red apples. It's a short season that's low maintenance since most yard work is wrapping up and days are getting shorter, there isn't much concern yet about holiday shopping or preparing for brutally cold temperatures. Have I said that I LOVE this season?

Fall also reminds me that everything has a season. I know that throughout my life I've held on to things and people longer that I should have. I've convinced myself that I know better than God sometimes and the current view that I have sometimes gets in the way of His omnipresent view. Fall reminds me to step away, let go and let God. Like the leaves that slowly appear in the early spring, are green and shady in the summer then turn to colors of bright red and orange in the fall, God always has a plan, a beautiful and sometimes confusing plan but it's always greater than what we could ever imagine.

Sometimes God answers prayers with a yes, sometimes a no and sometimes His response is to wait. Wait for the season that he has in mind, his plan is always greater.

My Testimony

2010-10-15T05:21:00.000-07:00

I believe that if I am going to start blogging about my faith and my love for God then I have to share my personal story.

I was blessed long before I knew God as my Lord and Savior, by having the priviledge of attending a Christian school from kindergarten so I knew who God was at a young age. As I moved through elementary and middle school I started seeing friends accept Christ and thought it was cool but was convinced I knew who God was already. When I reached high school I had some passionate teachers and parents of friends who had a love for God that I've never seen before. I realized that knowing God and being a child of God where two different things. However, I knew what the Christian life was all about and I didn't want to stop "having fun". I wasn't a "bad" kid but I wanted to be able to say a cuss word, gossip, lie and do what I wanted without the guilt. I planned to become a child of God once I was an old woman. I really had this thought in high school that I would live my life as I wanted and after I had lived it up, I would accept God and be ready for eternal life after I lived MY life. Little did I know that God had another plan....

Late in my junior year of high school I really started to feel the pull of God on my heart, but I resisted. I knew the truth and what I needed to do, I had even made a public commitment years before but it was more from peer pressure than anything I felt. I made it through the school year and had a fun summer before my senior year. When my senior year started so did the pull and before long we were planning our senior retreat, a weekend trip for seniors only and I was looking forward to the fun and knew I could fake the bible studies, group time, etc. since I'd been doing it for years. The first night a good friends mom, who was also a teacher at the school, saw me crying and starting asking me some pretty tough questions. I knew that she KNEW me, I was good friends with her daughter, I'd spend the night at her house many times, but the questions she asked were so pointed, I couldn't lie and I didn't. I felt the love she had in her heart through those questions and before long she lead me through the salvation plan but this time, it wasn't words, it was very real. I immediately felt exhausted and tired (too many years of pretending) but also refreshed and renewed. I wanted to tell everyone and I did. I lived the life in the months ahead, I read the Bible, I was baptized, I was surrounded by friends and guided by the love that others offered on my faith walk. I became really good friends with a small group of guys and girls and we spent endless amounts of time together, went on "fake dates" as a group, prayed together and loved one another and God. As graduation approached I wrote a touching poem about my faith that ended up on our graduation program and I knew I was ready for college.

As I started at WKU I saw the temptations that others around me were falling to and a group of friends started atteneding meetings with a college Christian organization. I went with them and enjoyed it but it wasn't what I needed that that point. I tried to not be judgemental or fake and I wanted to find a home church for my college years. A small group of us visited many and some found church homes but I contined my search till the middle of my sophomore year. I met a couple of people from that area, became good friends with them and were welcome in their parents homes and they invited me to their church and I went, rather willingly, even though it was several miles outside of Bowling Green. As soon as I entered that church the first time, I felt the Holy Spirit and it was the cold drink of water I was searching for. I attending church very regularly including Wednesday night Bible studies, Sunday School, college group activities and became really good friends with several in the group. At the end of my sophomore year I was invited on a mission trip and spent 6 amazing weeks between Belize and the inner island of Jamica. I saw things I'd never dreamed of and felt blessed in ways that I never imagined. My faith became something I could talk about, wrap myself in for comfort and share with others very freely. I was on a spiritual high and considered mission work for my future. Returning from that trip wasn't easy but I knew what I experienced wasn't gone, I just had think about my faith in my daily life like I had on that trip.

By the start of my junior year I was helping with Acteens, moving out of the dorm and into a house with one of the girls and enjoying this new persective on college life. We weren't perfect and there was plenty of drama within our group but we were friends and loved and talked about God. That year had its ups and down but in December I had a phone call out of the blue from an ex-boyfriend (B) and we agreed to see each other during my Christmas break. I can admit now I never got over him from high school and when I saw him again, all of those feelings came flooding back. I prayed about it and told God exactly what I wanted but also felt my world moving from being God centered to being B centered, I knew it wasn't right but I coudn't stop it.

My senior summer I returned home, even though I could've stayed in the house and in the Bowling Green area, and worked at a summer camp and spent time with B. When I returned to school I was different but quickly fell back into church, bible study but made more and more trips home. I sensed that friends were worrying but I found excuses to dodge difficult conversations. I was balancing school, a relationship with B and friendships. Then in December B proposed and I was beyond excited. During December I also moved out of the house I'd been sharing with the girlfriend from our college group. She and I weren't spending much time together anyways and, with very little said about it, I packed up and moved out and into a house with K&G, two people that were like Christian parents to me and their son, who was also in our college group, had recently moved out so I moved into his room. Looking back at the generosity and love they showed to me, I may have known I was blessed then but now, it's a whole new level of understanding, they are amazing people. As graduation approached so did my wedding date and B and I had just bought a house as well. Life was moving full speed ahead and when wedding invitations were sent to BWG to the friends I considered family, I heard from very few of them and was crushed. I believed it was because they were upset that I was moving away and marrying someone they didn't approve of. As the years passed I heard from a couple of them a few times but that life seemed long gone.

As B and I built our life in Louisville, we took trips, spent time with family and friends, had good jobs and felt blessed. The extent of our faith life was tithing, we've always tithed 10% of our income and felt blessed for the jobs we have and income we make. Aside from that, we both believed, talked about praying for things but it wasn't a very active Christian life. Years passed, we moved, were blessed with a daughter and I lost my dad. Having just given birth 4 months earlier it was a very emotional time and all of the grief and sadness I felt was pushed aisde so I could care for an infant. I put all of myself into caring for her and the relationships around me suffered. I was in a very dark place, could feel it and, little did I know I wouldn't see the LIGHT for awhile. For the next couple years I felt like I was just surviving day to day and not enjoying or savoring life at all. As our 10th anniversary approached I decided to do a collection of photos in a book for B and working on the project I found old letters, journals, notes and pictures that forced me to see the recall a life that I thought was gone. As I read my own words about the friendships I had I knew I had made some big mistakes and not only walked away from friendships but also walked away from God. For the first time in a long time I prayed and felt the love that I'd thrived on in years past. In the next several weeks I felt my soul being cleaned and my spirit being awakened and I found a part of myself that was ever gone. I also knew it was time to make some ammends. I made some phone calls, sent some emails and make two trips to BWG to see people that I hadn't seen in a decade and each person seemed to believe the same thing, that it was good to see me, they missed me and I was welcomed back with open arms. I felt blessed beyond measure and while this area of my life was unpacked and reopened, other parts of my life felt like they were falling apart. Yes, I was upset and angry but I also prayed about thing and found guidance from a couple people, K&G and also P, a long time friend, all who give solid Christian advice and none of the "you poor things advice" that I didn't need or want to hear. My life still feels like a rollar coaster most days but I can get through it with Gods help. I am not alone and never will be. God has given me wisdom and understanding, patience and perseverance and reminds me regulary that he is the only judge and jury because he is omnipotent, since I am not I cannot be judge or jury to anyone. He is the only all knowing and all powerful one in my life and all things work together for the good of HIM!

Although this is my testimony it grows and changes everyday. I love God with all my heart and feel a warmth from Christian radio, blessing from faith based books and his never ending love from the Bible. I am blessed beyond measure and deserve nothing that I have, including his love for me. His light guides my days and comforts my nights, he is now and always there for me.

Left Behind

2010-10-15T05:11:00.000-07:00

I've been reading the Left Behind book series and I've just finished Book 5 and am on a quest to find book #6 without paying $15+ from a bookstore. I already have books 7-10 but still need 6 to keep reading.

As I've been reading through this series (not easy since I LOVE to read but so does my 3yr old so I end up reading a chapter, then reading a book to her) its really opened my eyes and heart about the second coming of Christ. Whether its in my lifetime, that of my child, my grandchildren or future generations it will happen, that's a promise we have. When that day comes everyone who has asked Jesus into their heart, confessed their sins and become a child of His will immediately go to Heaven. I am not going to debate the topic and if you want to think about from a very personal perspective then I suggest you read Left Behind, the first book. It's the story of those who were left behind and the immediate pain and longing that some experience while others have denial, scientific explanations for millions who suddenly go missing with only a pile of clothing left behind. (I recommend reading the series but you could just read the first book and stop there.)

I have no doubt that if the Rapture were to happen in my lifetime that I would only be a pile of clothing but what about those I love around me? Would they be left behind to endure what comes following the Rapture? Would they understand what had happened? I have prayed regularly, while reading through this series, for those who will have to endure what comes after the Rapture. Faith is such a gift and I can wear a Christian t-shirt, say God Bless, walk into a Christian bookstore and purchase whatever I want and have no fear about who hears or sees me doing it. I am blessed with that freedom and I often take it for granted.

New Direction....

2010-10-15T05:00:00.000-07:00

I've taken a LONG break from blogging and I doubt that any of my previous readers are still out there but I am changing my direction and what I write about. I am going to write about things that are on my heart and mind and for months now, that has been my love for God and the life that Jesus has given us on this Earth.

I'm not going to get preachy or pushy and you can read it or ignore it but this is who I am and I cannot hide that. It's very real and very emotional and my new posts may read more like a daily devotion from a Christian woman to loves her daughter, her husband, her family and God.

I hope you enjoy it and that it makes you think about your life and the way you impact others around you.

I believe we are on this Earth for a very short period of time and it is simply to prepare us for an eternal life in Heaven and that our time on Earth should be spent storing up eternal treasures and glorifying God and the blessings we have.

Hope on Good Friday

2010-04-02T05:33:00.000-07:00

Have you ever seen the movie "My Life" with Michael Keaton and Nicole Kidman? I've seen it several times but I caught a few minutes of it the other day and (this isn't a spoiler if you've not seen it) shortly after being told by a doctor that there is no cure, treatments or anything else they can do for his cancer Michael Keaton (Bob, in the movie) leaves with his wife (Nicole Kidman) and you can see and feel their devastation regarding that news. When they get to the car he runs back inside, charges up to the doctor and says how dare you take my hope, that's all I have left.

Have you ever let someone take your hope or taken it from someone else? Maybe you've given it to someone that didn't have much but it's a powerful thing to have. When you have nothing else to believe in, no reason to think a situation will change or get any better - you can still hope. This weekend is Easter and regardless of what you know about the Easter story it is full of hope, miracles and redemption.

I HOPE you have a wonderful Easter that is filled with family and love.

Naturally Sweet!

2010-03-19T06:38:00.000-07:00

My daughter has never had a sucker. She's not diabetic and doesn't have food problems but she's never eaten a sucker, a candy bar, a brownie and she's nearly 3 years old. How and why you ask?

I can't say it's as easy as it was when she was 1 since she's rapidly approaching the age of, "here do you want a sucker sweetie?" from the bank teller, grocery store clerk, gas station manager but we either say no thanks or we take it and toss it, depending on the situation and I LOVE the places that offer a sticker. That means there are no grocery store tantrums in the check out line and no requests for Pop Tarts on Saturday mornings (they aren't even in the house). She doesn't eat junk food. Don't get me wrong she loves pretzels, popcorn, crackers so we have to read labels for sodium but she'll beg for strawberries, blueberries, peanut butter with a little honey (yes, I know, there's sugar there but it's in the fruit too), and once in awhile she'll have a sugar free cookie. When she has pancakes she has sugar free syrup, for her birthday it's a reduced sugar cake and minimal icing, for dessert it might be a roll with a little honey, a yogurt in a "dessert" flavor, or even a banana.

I don't have an issue with sugar, personally I love sugar, but I've switched to Splenda myself and I am working hard to get over my own addition to sweets, especially chocolate. We are all eating healthier, reading labels more and I know it won't last forever I want her to understand that she can satisfy a craving for something sweet in other ways than chocolate.

With Easter just around the corner I am already working on her basket. There are some bubbles, a small kite, some seeds to plant and a puzzle but no candy. I'll write more as has basket gets closer to being finished but Easter brings spring weather so there is lots I can add without feeling a need to add a big chocolate bunny!

Blowing the Budget!

2010-03-19T06:31:00.000-07:00

My family has recently taken a love to fruit. We've always been into apples, bananas and some of the summer berries but lately we've been eating blueberries, strawberries and so much more on a weekly basis and it's blowing my grocery budget! Does anyone have any tips for saving money on fruit? I shop at a warehouse store on occasion and always check their fruit for quality and price but it's not a huge savings and, like I said, we're eating lots of fruit every week.

I did find this site, it's nationwide, that I look forward to taking advantage of this summer and hopefully picking some of our own fruit but it's only March and here in KY our growing season is a short one!

http://www.pickyourown.org/KY.htm

Faith in Action

2010-03-16T06:20:00.000-07:00

I'm not a minister, theologist or extremely knowledgeable of the Bible but I do know a little something about faith and I've seen faith in action lately, like never before.

A dear from of mine, from years ago, and I recently reconnected and she told me how her and her husband along with their child had felt called into foreign ministry. They are currently selling belongings, packing and praying for the journey ahead and I've found myself wondering, could I do the same thing? Although they are in a very different place (and location) they are leaving everything that is "home" to them to set off on a journey like never before. That is faith in action to me and I pray for them daily. They have had love and support, criticism and critics and I pray for their upcoming journey and strength as they prepare.

Another friend of mine found a lump in her breast, is younger than 30 and within 2 weeks of finding it had a double mastectomy and started chemo. As a young woman, mother and wife she has encountered things that I cannot imagine but she has never doubted her faith or questioned, why me. Since she has no family history and I've wondered, what if it was me, would me faith carry me through as it has her? She prays for healing and comfort but also for those who she met in and out of doctors offices and hospitals and she has a level of understanding that amazes me. I find myself praying for her a lot in every aspect I can think of, from financial debt (being sick is expensive!) to peace, to strength to sunny days. She has thrown away her rose colored glasses and know life isn't perfect but has an internal strength that I truly admire.

I don't tell these stories to make anyone sad or depressed because these people aren't. They have good days and bad but their faith and strength carries them through. I often feel like I have a faith meter and some days it's all the way at the top, ringing an imaginary bell like a carnival game, then other days it's just halfway there, then on some days it feels like the bottom wants to fall out and it takes a little more prayer to get things climbing, but it always climbs and when it's at the top, it's an amazing view.

I'm Back!

2010-03-16T06:18:00.000-07:00

To say it's been awhile is putting it mildly but blogging got to feeling like a chore and not a pleasure so I took a break but I'm back with a new focus. Thanks to any readers who find me again and comments are welcome to leave a message!

Am I Too Old for This?

2009-11-09T12:18:00.000-08:00

Any of my regular or real life readers know that I have a 2-yr old. I don't have a teenager at home swooning over Twilight and let me say...that's a good thing! Why? Because our house couldn't handle two of us! Yes, that's right, I resisted but finally after some non-stop encouragement from a family member who I call a friend, I gave in and read the first book...let me re-phrase, I read the first book in 24 hours. I called her and she came to my rescue and delivered the next three books and within 10 days I read the entire series.

I was captivated like never before, in a book series, and have already started to re-read them. You won't find me in the book isle swooning over the movie guides (my same family friend already loaned me those so I could look in private) and you won't find me decked out in Twilight gear (but my sweatshirt is on order). I've already watched Twilight numerous times and I have my 12:10 am movie ticket for New Moon hanging on the fridge.

So what is it about these books/movies/series? I have no idea but I'm going to take a shot at it. When I first heard about them I heard the word vampires and immediately said, NO WAY. I didn't even consider it again till she was telling me about the story, the love, the fact that it is an easy read but even when I got it home it sat on the table for two days.

I agree with all of the things she told me but it's so much more than that, I can honestly understand the craze and obsession, especially with the teenage audience. Reading these books are like reading someone's journal. You feel, hear, see, sense and experience things through their eyes and heart and when Stephanie Meyer wrote these books she didn't set out to write a bestseller book. She was recording a dream. She gave these people life and, forgive me if you're heard her interviews, but these were like children to her. There are so genuine that it's breathtaking.

Toddler Mommyhood

2009-10-29T10:56:00.000-07:00

Hello to any and all loyal readers/checkers I have out there. I'm BACK!

I'd like to say I've taken a vacation, been up to something very exciting but the truth is..I've been raising a toddler. Rather a two year old, two foot tall teenager! Anyone who says that toddler hood is the first adolescence is right.

Currently I have a stove thermometer, a watermelon cosmetic bag and some plastic bugs under my kitchen table (her new hide out). The bathtub has become a place to practice spitting...with water. How else do you teach that to a toddler who is learning to brush their teeth? My bed is the place to watch Caillou or Curious George and she can open, close, undo, reach, unfasten, hide or figure out nearly ANYTHING. There is a reason you baby proof your house and not toddler proof it...there is no such thing as toddler proofing.

I have to admit that she's a lot of fun, understands humor and loves to laugh, she talks up a storm and is already getting the hang of counting and colors and knows how she wants to do (or not do) many things. Raising a child is an amazing, exhausting and unbelievable experience. It's certainly NOT for the weak!

Thanks for checking in and come back soon...I have to go clean up the backseat of my car. A two year old and my organized, neat, coupon box were playing in the backseat...yes, it's as bad as you can imagine!

Pantry Panic!

2009-09-01T19:00:00.000-07:00

I never thought that food bugs would be such interesting topic but given how many readers have been following this story (and probably feeling really creeped out about it) be sure to include your questions for Emily here and she will do a follow-up post in a few days to answer any remaining questions you have. Whether you're curious about containers, moving past the creepy feeling or just want to know if her pantry panic is over, leave a comment or a question and she'll respond in a follow-up post.

Pantry Panic- Day 3

2009-08-31T06:38:00.000-07:00

This is the last post from my guest writer Emily and her pantry panic in dealing with food bugs. If you have questions for her, leave a comment and she can do a follow-up post with any additional concerns or questions that you have.

Read below as she offers help and suggestions on cleaning out, deciding what to keep or toss and how to know if the bugs are really gone or not!

Day 3:

Now you know it can happen to you, and you know what to do to help prevent the problem. But what if you realize you have bugs, too? If you find bugs, here is what you have to do:

- Throw away anything with a bug in or on it. Moan and complain at yourself for not keeping things better contained as you pitch $100 in food.
- Okay, technically, you can apparently still eat it. You can freeze the product, or put it in the oven at a low temperature for a while, and kill the bugs. (Look up the details on how to actually do this if you’re interested). Note that you are not magically removing them, they are just going to quit moving, and then you will eat them. I was not willing to go this route, but you may be. You will not know until you look into a can of flour, see a wriggling mass of tiny bugs amid the food, and gauge how you feel about it.
- To inspect items like boxes of pasta or bags of flour, open them up, pour them into a glass bowl or zip top bag, and look closely. Look into the empty box or bag as well. If you find nothing, keep it. Throw away the packaging. Put it in good canisters, or put it in zip top bags that you seal and put in other containers until you find good quality air tight containers.
- Anything that you are keeping that you know is safe like canned goods or bottles of oil must be washed in hot soapy water, since it could have eggs on it. Yes, this is disgusting to even think about. Dry thoroughly.
- If you want to keep something that you can’t wash, but feel is safe (such as some packets of muffin mix I had), place the entire package in a large zip top bag and look closely at the bag a few times over the next few days. This will contain anything that happened to be in there, and allow you to see it better if something does come out. Use it as soon as possible, and inspect the food itself carefully before you prepare and eat it.
- Think about items like potatoes and onions, both of which were in my pantry. I could see no bugs on them, but I didn’t want to put them back in the pantry and risk re-contaminating the space, in case they had something on them I couldn’t see. Since I was going to wash or peel and then cook them before use, I decided to put them in the fridge in a plastic bag until I could use them, therefore killing and containing anything potentially on them, and focus on using them quickly since you aren’t supposed to store either at such a cool temperature.
- Remove any canisters or plastic bins in your pantry and wash them thoroughly. Even if nothing got IN your canister, wash the outside.
- Vacuum out the cabinets (take the vacuum bag or canister outside immediately!). Wash out the cabinets with hot soapy water to physically remove any bugs or food crumbs.
- Decide whether you are going to spray the inside of the cabinets with insecticide. There are some products that say they can be used inside cabinets and cupboards, and that specifically target pantry bugs, as long as you let dry before putting your food back. I did go this route, let it dry overnight, and then put my food back in. I wouldn’t do this as a preventative measure, but it’s amazing how your tolerance to toxic chemicals go up when you see thousands of bugs in your food. Some people may still not want to do this, and that’s understandable.
- Some people say a dried bay leaf in your containers will offer further protection against bugs. I’m not sure if this is true, but it seems to be a safe easy method to try and I’ll probably throw a few in as added protection.
- Put some sticky boards in your pantry to help you monitor the situation. There are some triangle/pyramid shaped ones available, to keep you from gluing your can of tomatoes to a bug trap, as well as some specifically designed to attract pantry bugs. Check them every few days to see how many bugs they have attracted. The life cycle of some of these bugs is about 8 weeks, so you need to know if new ones are hatching or more start appearing. And once they have been clear for a few weeks, you can stop being afraid to open food containers and glaring suspiciously at any crumb on your counter.

It’s been an experience. I’m fortunate that I caught it before it got everything – luckily my extensive spice cabinet was spared. I’m relieved no one has eaten at my house recently, because I’d wonder if I fed them bugs! I’ve learned that bad bugs happen to good people, even if you keep a pretty clean kitchen. And I think it could be worse - this is better than mice, or roaches, or a number of other horrific infestation options. Hopefully this will help you not make some of the mistakes I did, and be prepared if you ever have a similar problem.

Pantry Panic- Day 2

2009-08-28T05:36:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was Day 1 of Pantry Panic from my guest writer Emily. Today she continues her story with things she's learned and how she plans to do things different in her kitchen, going forward. Being someone that shops sales, clips coupons and stocks up on good deals her story has really gotten my attention and made me think that one problem like this could be costly of time, money and energy. Come back tomorrow for Day 3 of her pantry panic!

Day 2:

Yesterday I admitted that I had a pantry infestation, but I’ve learned some lessons, and found some good tips on keeping this from happening again:

- Anything you bring home could have tiny bugs in it, and you may never see them until it is WAY too late. Some things, especially things that come in paper bags like sugar, flour, or corn meal, should be put into air tight containers and the original packaging thrown away. That way if you inadvertently bring something home, at least it will be contained. Clear or opaque containers are best because then you can see inside better. You can also store these items in the fridge or freezer if you have room, which will kill and contain anything in them, and keep them fresher longer. I’ve read that some people bring home items like this and put them in the freezer for about a week, then move them to air tight containers.
- Don’t stock up on items that you cannot or will not repackage or store in the freezer. It isn’t a deal if you lose it all and half your other food due to bugs.
- Rethink whether “your air tight” containers are actually air tight. Some of my canisters were older, and I found bugs inside them. Good, durable containers may be expensive at first, but they should last for years and if they save you from throwing away dozens of food products they are worth it. I’ve already ordered a handful of larger, nicer storage canisters, and I won’t be buying replacement food until they arrive. I’ve always used canisters because they are more convenient to try to measure ingredients out of, but I’m realizing that their ability to keep out moisture and bugs is far more important.
- Take a good, close look at any food product that is getting old before you use it, or anything that has made it into your pantry and not been properly sealed.
- On a regular basis, clean out your pantry! Take everything out, wipe off the shelves, look inside for any traces of bugs, move older items to the front to be used, and take a moment to stare closely into your canisters. If you can see through your container, look closely at the sides or bottom. Evaluate whether you actually need 6 varieties of pasta and 5 boxes of corn muffin mix.
- Keep pet food as far away from the kitchen as possible. According to some websites, the items most likely to carry food bugs into your house are flour, corn meal, and pet food. Ours is in the garage in an air tight (hopefully!) container, so I don’t think it contributed to our problem, and we’ve never had a problem with bugs in the pet food. But, it’s a good reminder to be careful with pet food.

Coming up: what to do if you find bugs yourself.

Pantry Panic- Day 1

2009-08-27T05:11:00.000-07:00

Good morning!

Today is the first of three days from Emily, a guest writer. For the next three days she will tell her story of how one loaf of bread that she had rising on the stove turned into the most expensive and time consuming pantry clean-out that she's ever had. I assure you that reading her story will have you racing home to clean out your own pantry and become very aware of the groceries you have accumulating. Thanks to Emily for sharing her story, visit again the next couple days for days 2 & 3 of her experience!

Day 1:

This week my pantry came to life, and I don’t mean that in a good way. I reached into my pantry to pull out a box of barley, and was horrified to discover that it was covered in tiny bugs, crawling in and out. As I started to pull things out, I found the bugs in my flour, rice, pasta, sugar, salt, macaroni, muffin mixes, and crackers…you get the picture.

I always thought bugs in your pantry was something that happened to “other” people – those who don’t clean their kitchen, who keep moldy food around, who buy questionable food products from clearance bins at the discount grocer. But my kitchen is clean, these were mostly products I use on a regular basis, and these were brand name products from major grocery stores. I did, however, make some mistakes. One, there were two or three items that I had been storing for far too long, and some had been opened but were still in the original container. Two, I use food storage containers for pantry staples like sugar and flour, but they aren’t big enough to hold an entire 5 pound bag, so I would fill up the container, then roll the bag over and set it on top of the canister until there was enough room.

Before you start thinking that you don’t have a problem, think about this: I made bread with some heavily infested flour and it was rising on the stove before I realized what was going on. I’m not entirely sure what I had, my bugs were very small, and looked like grains of sand that were moving (note to self: do NOT do an Internet search for “pantry bugs picture” unless you actually want to look at the pictures). They were very difficult to see, unless there were a few and you were very close, holding very still, and specifically looking. So don’t be too sure that you would notice it immediately!

Stay tuned for tips on prevention, as well as what to do if you find some unwelcome guests in your pantry.

Pantry Panic!

2009-08-26T12:34:00.000-07:00

Does the thought of the food in your pantry make you feel safe, prepared, ready for any meal that gets suggested? If you think your pantry is a safe place then check back for the next three days for special postings from a guest writer who will share her tale of pantry panic and what she's had to do to recover, restock and restore the order in her pantry!

Anniversary

2009-08-26T06:20:00.001-07:00

My husband and I are celebrating our 9th anniversary today! It's hard to believe that 9 years have passed and that we are just one year from being married for a decade! WOW!

Don't get me wrong, it's not that I thought we wouldn't make it, both of our parents have remained married throughout all things good and bad so we have learned from the best. I do know there are some things I have learned through the years..

Marriage is a journey, not a destination. I hear so many couples who are engaged focus so much time and energy on their wedding and while that is important, the most important thing is that you are still going to be married at the end of that day, for better or worse!
Marriage is a contract between two people. Think about the vows you shared and what those words really mean, regardless of the number of years that have passed that contract is still legal and binding!
You are not the judge of your spouse. I make mistakes, my husband makes mistakes and chances are, we both know when we do it, I don't need him to remind me and I don't need to bring it to his attention. Our Heavenly Father is the only one qualified to judge me or my husband.
I have two "memory rooms" in my head. One of those rooms has all of the great things my husband does in it, the other one, the negative things. Both rooms have true things in them but I CHOOSE to spend time in the good room filled with happiness, thoughtfulness and memorable moments. That other room? That's to pray for my husband and the door stays closed.
Marriage is not easy but it's so worth it! The friendship, love, companionship, tenderness, helpfulness, sensitivity and so many other things are reasons why marriage works and is worth it. I understand it doesn't work for a lot of people but it does for me and I cherish my husband for the man that he is, the dreams that he has and the husband, father and man he commits himself to being.

Elmo Cake for a First Birthday!

2009-08-25T06:27:00.000-07:00

Since I posted yesterday about my daughter's second birthday and her Clifford cake I thought I would post her Elmo cake from last year too. Obviously Elmo and Sesame Street are much easier to find than Clifford and between Walmart, Factory Card Outlet and several online stores I was able to find lots of Elmo items for her party.

For her cake I used the Wilton mini stand bear pan to make this 3D cake for her. I also made a sheet cake for the guests but this one was all for her and she really enjoyed tearing into it! I used reduced sugar cake and frosting (good for these shaped cakes since they have pudding in the mix) and the eyes and nose were made from fondant so I removed those before handing her the cake to destroy. Yes, she did get red but it didn't stain and came right off in the bath and made for great pictures!

I love planning parties and her birthday parties are fun without feeling overdone, if you plan parties for your kids or family leave a comment, I love hearing new items for parties!

Clifford Cake and Party!

2009-08-24T11:11:00.000-07:00

One of the things that had me really busy in the past few weeks was my daughter's second birthday party. She LOVES Clifford the Big Red Dog and anyone who has a child that loves Clifford knows that finding Clifford party items isn't the easiest thing, even online. Stores that do carry it are often sold out.

I resorted to ebay and found some cute toys that I could use for decoration and she could play with later. Plus, we used lots of red items (bowls, plates, cups, etc.) to go along with the theme.

For her cake I made a doghouse cake using the Wilton Stand Up House mold (which I doubled to make it sturdier and serve more). The base of the cake is a brownie made in a cookie sheet pan, for the non-cake people! I also found some cute dog bowls at the Dollar Store which I put graham cracker "scooby snacks" in that looked like dog bones! She had a great time and loved seeing all the Clifford items.

I've got to say the most I spent was on food but it was a great party and since this was only my second cake like this (we did Elmo last year) I was really happy with the way it all turned out! Happy Birthday to my 2 yr old!

Disconnected!

2009-08-24T07:31:00.000-07:00

It's been awhile since I've written so stay tuned for lots of new posts!

On top of my busy life I had the unfortunate experience of a broken cell phone about two weeks ago. Since life was filled with to-do lists I took the time to change my greeting with an alternate number where I could be reached and told callers I would check my voicemail periodically. The first several days were wonderful! I didn't have to worry about digging in my purse for a ringing phone, reaching around in the car in a panic or running through the house to get to it in time. For a moment I thought..wow...life before cell phones, how wonderful.

Then...I needed a phone number that was in my phone and the following day I was going to call from the car to check a stores hours and I realized, yeah, this is also life before cell phones, the convenience of having some information at your fingertips is also wonderful!

Yes, I had my phone fixed and I am back and connected but for the week I had to live without it, it was wonderful, relaxing and I understood why so many resist the urge to be so available all the time. If you haven't taken the time lately, disconnect yourself and just relax...and take a minute to write down numbers that you only store in your cell phone, you may be glad you did!

Finally Friday!

2009-07-31T14:29:00.001-07:00

However you choose to spend your weekend, I hope you have time to RELAX!

Hello Out There!

2009-07-17T05:44:00.000-07:00

Hello, how are you?

(This is where you say, good/fine/OK, how are you?)

I'm good but having some trouble.

(You say, really, what's going on?)

Well, I've been blogging for awhile now but not getting many comments.

(You say, hmm, do you have readers?)

That's a good question, I wasn't sure till I set up google analytics, a great resource for bloggers, but I do have people visiting and reading. Or getting a call and just staying on my site for 2-3 minutes at a time.

(You say, Why do you think they aren't commenting?)

I don't know....

So, here's an all call for all you ghost readers out there, click on comments, write a comment or just say hi and post it! You can even be anonymous if you'd like.

Knowledge is Power

2009-07-15T13:14:00.000-07:00

I've been blogging long enough that other people are starting to ask me how to start a blog and what to write about. Starting a blog is easy, as easy as an email account and I highly recommend Blogger from Google. The steps are quick and easy and you'll be writing in no time at all.

The next question, what to write about. For me, that's never a problem. Sometimes finding the time can be a problem but not topics, I have lists of them.

I have no doubt that you are an expert on something. Are you rolling your eyes? Hear me out. There is something that you love, or you're good at and you can write about and those topics can lead to other topics. Maybe it's baking, cooking, grilling, gardening, writing, meeting new people, telling jokes, teaching others, writing resumes, parenting, kids and their behavior, sports, travel, entertaining, party planning, housework, household hints, or even making lemonade from lemons. Whatever it is, you can write about it and have fun with it.

What if you started blogging about planning trips then a travel agency read your blog and wanted to place an ad, now you're hobby is making money and you are enjoying what you're doing.

Think BIG, the knowledge you have is powerful and the blog world is a big one. Be yourself, unique and have fun. Just try it, you may like it!

Wordless Wednesday

2009-07-15T05:11:00.000-07:00

Family Cookbook

2009-07-13T05:52:00.001-07:00

Around Christmas of last year my sister and I decided that we were going to take on the task of making a family cookbook. We talked to everyone about it, the idea was a hit so we created a template page that people could print and write in or type into and sent it out to everyone. We also set a deadline for the fall of this year in hopes that people would write down recipes throughout the year since we all know that what you cook changes throughout the year. We've already been getting good feedback and questions (such as asking friends or co-workers to add a certain recipe but note on the page how they are connected to us) and we're excited about getting the actual recipes.

Have you ever done a family recipe collection? Any tips to share or lessons learned?

My fingers are crossed that everyone doesn't wait until the end and a couple reminders have already went out in hope that people do, at least, make notes of what they want to include even if they aren't writing them out yet!

Dad

2009-07-07T06:22:00.000-07:00

Anyone knows that several weeks ago was Father's Day but what you don't know is that my dad's birthday was one week ago, as well as his favorite holiday, the 4th of July. You also may not know that in December of 2007 my dad passed away, he was 55. Anyone that knows me and is reading this knows that I don't talk about him a lot but that doesn't mean he's not constantly on my mind, especially as my daughter does things that I know would make him laugh. Although he was my dad, he meant a lot to so many people.

He was a man who loved a great story, a good joke and the chance to teach anybody something that he knew about. He could captivate an audience, charm anyone and yet seemed a little shy in the oddest of circumstances. He loved a good coat, a good hat and pants that weren’t too long. His daily dress consisted of a button down shirt or a white T-shirt, jeans and a nautical belt. If it was sunny, a hat, since he’d been told to protect his head. He smelled of shaving cream and outside but never cologne. He loved fleece shirts but was picky about them and had a closet full with tags on them to prove it. He could run fast, couldn’t swim well and strolled more than walked.

He was also always ready to teach with a real life lesson. From offering to match anything we’d put into savings to show us the value of planning to setting up pretend fires in the backyard so that we could use a fire extinguisher and understand how it works, he understood the value of teaching someone versus doing it for them. Even though we were girls we knew how to use the tractor, pull start an engine and shoot a gun. Guns were for protection, not play, and having them in the house was never an issue.

He was also never without a tool or a snack. You could ask for any tool out there and not only did he have it, he probably had 3, one still in the package, and would loan it to you. You could ride in his car or truck and there would be snacks in the glove compartment, just in case of an emergency.

He was a man with a schedule and enjoyed his routine. He liked coffee in the morning that wasn’t too hot to drink, lunch at noon and dinner at 5. Whether he was hungry or not, when the clock struck 5 it was dinnertime. Picky he wasn’t and whether it was chicken nuggets or filet mignon, it was just dinner and having it at 5 seemed more important what he was having. In the evenings he enjoyed a good martini, with lots of olives and on those hot summer days there was nothing like a beer, an MGD until he took to Ultra and he never was a Bud man.

At the lake he was in his element. He knew the water and the lake by looking at the shore, knew the weather by the clouds and wind and knew the people he enjoyed spending his time with the most. He was an expert at tying rope and teaching others how to, making trays of drinks for a crowd and putting any boat into the slip, a feat that often seemed like putting a watermelon in a hole that was intended for a lemon. He also enjoyed running the lake at night, a delight to him but I’m sure it scared the life out of many of his guests. He loved a good adventure and the chance to rescue anyone in need.

Weather seemed to always be important to him. From monitoring it for the lake, watching for a full moon so he could spend hours in the hot tub on a cold winter night or run the lake at night in the summer, he always wanted to know what was getting ready to happen, it was all about being prepared and that’s probably why he wasn’t ever crazy about traveling beyond the lake.

He loved children and thought most were sweet but was always willing to sweeten them a little more. For the children on the dock he had long Tootsie Roll logs, for his nephews one Christmas they each received a tool box full of snack and sweets. Easter had it’s own memories and for as long as I can remember we’d awake on Easter morning to baskets full of goodies and the ever present bunny with the teeth marks on the left ear.

He liked the comfort of his home and welcomed others there. For a man who could do so much, ordering food out was never easy, his order was never right. He’s the only person I know that could go to McDonald's for breakfast and they were out of McMuffins, order the special and it’s wrong and finally figured out that it didn’t matter what flavor of turnover he ordered from Arby’s, they would never get it right. He’d take it in stride and grew to expect it.

He was more than just a great man. He was a leader, a teacher, a believer in others, a great storyteller and knew that he would never live to be an old man. For nearly 7 years he packed his days full of life and knew that his days were numbered, while he didn’t talk about it much we knew it was on his mind more than he let anyone know. During those clear nights on the lake when the moon was full and air was cool, or on a snow covered mountain in Montana a certain look would pass over his face and you knew that he was measuring his life against all his dreams and expectations, you knew that this was a man who looked death in the face without fear.

Good Morning from God

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

Good Morning, this is God and today I will be handling all of your problems.

Please remember that I do not need your help.

If the devil happens to deliver a situation to you that you cannot handle, DO NOT attempt to resolve it.

Kindly put it in the SFJTD (Something For Jesus To Do) box.

It will be addressed in MY time, not yours.

Once the matter is placed into the box, do not hold on to it or attempt to remove it.

Holding on or removal will delay the resolution of your problem.

If it is a situation that you think you are capable of handling, please consult me in prayer to be sure that it is the proper resolution.

Because I do not sleep nor do I slumber, there is no need for you to lose any sleep.

Rest, my child.

If you need to contact me, I am only a prayer away.

I didn't write this but I think it's really beautiful and worth sharing...

Oven Self Clean- Safety Concern

2009-07-07T05:56:00.001-07:00

I am a pretty cautious cooker so when I'm using the oven I rarely have things overflow or splatter but after owning my oven for a couple years I decided it was time for a really good cleaning.I debated on buying a spray on oven cleaner but decided that my oven had a self clean mode so why not use that and save myself some time and a little money. I was aware that it would smell for awhile as it burned off the gunk but what I wasn't aware of was how hot the OUTSIDE of my oven would get. I admit that I didn't get out the book and read so it may be mentioned there but as the parent of a toddler I was quickly pulling chairs over and blocking the front too prevent her small hands from touching the oven.

Sure, the oven was clean and it took a couple hours for the oven to cool back down completely but if you are considering hitting those self-clean buttons, be aware that the inside of your oven might not be the only place that gets really HOT!

My good idea made $50!

2009-07-02T12:11:00.001-07:00

What could you do with $50? I know I could make it go a lot further than I used to and I'm sure anyone who is watching budgets or bottom lines would agree. So how can you get an extra $50? Several years ago I had an idea to help keep track of library books when I checked them out (most print out "reciepts" now). After selecting all of my books, I'd stop at the copier, put all the books spine down and make a copy. I'd write the due date on the paper and stick it on the fridge, paying 10 cents for a copy was much less than late fees when I realized a month later that I forgot to return one of the books! I realized this was a good idea so I sent it to a magazine and about a month later I got a letter, a proof of the page that I had to confirm and upon returning that I got a $50 check in the mail!

If you're a thrifty mom who's a pro at saving dough, or have lots of good rainy day activities, or have households tips that you share with friends, why not share it with Family Circle and see what happens! Here's the link with more information and an email address.

Learning to Let Go

2009-06-30T11:56:00.001-07:00

My husband had a great idea and we went to a local park at lunchtime today. My daughter, who is nearly two, loves going down the slides, climbing the "rock walls" (with help) and just running around. However, she's already had a taste of the "big girl" swings and now the baby swings just won't do. When we put her in, she swung for a moment then begged OUT and wanted to sit in the regular ones.

When we first took her out, I captured this moment of her turning her back on the baby swings. I look at this now and it hits me that she's already letting go of things from her infancy and refusing to look back. She's a stubborn one with a mind of her own and I hope that as she continues to grow, learn and challenge herself to take on new things, I can be just as eager, willing and supportive. Isn't that what we should do as parents, know when to let go, when to hold on and when to stand close in case those little hands reach out for us?

Yard Sale - Having your own?

2009-06-29T12:22:00.001-07:00

If you read my blog much at all then you know that I enjoy going to yard sales and post tips for those who go but over the weekend I had a thought. If my posts have encouraged you to have your own yard sale, there are few things you should consider too.

First, you have to have the stuff. I do believe that one persons trash is another persons treasure but I am a very specific shopper myself. I look for children's clothing, toys, books and always keep my eyes open for unique items. If you are having a yard sale, you are more than welcome to put out anything you want be be prepared at the end of the day, are you going to put your non-selling items back in the house, stuff them in the garage or get rid of them? If you want to get rid of them you take them to Goodwill, local shelters (donations to both places mean a tax deduction), you can go to craigslist and see if there are people in your area that buy yard sale leftover, or just toss it all. Either way, I've only ever had one yard sale where EVERYTHING sold.

Second, you have to get people there. If you put up signs make them easy to read from a passing car, use bright colored paper or signs (check the weather if you plan to put them up the night before), and use arrows. Place a sign in your yard that match's your street signs so people know they have arrived! Plus, keep your signs simple, I can't read your list of items when driving 45 mph. If you want to list your items or draw even more traffic, use craigslist or your local newspaper. Some papers have free listings on weekends but craigslist is free all the time, you can be as wordy as you want and post pictures too.

Next, the day arrives! If you plan to start at 8 am, be ready at 7:30 to make sure EVERYTHING is priced (people may not ask if things aren't priced and you seem busy) and stickers haven't fallen off, have your change ready and a safe place to keep money, a calculator at hand, some beverages for yourself (or to sell if it's hot outside) and your phone. The less trips you make inside the better. Think about a lunch plan early on too, you don't want to be starving and unable to get a break to eat. Otherwise, be available, friendly, willing to negotiate, and optimistic that it all sells.

After your yard sale, go and get your signs. Some cities have ordinances where they can send you a fine if it's left too long but either way, it's just the courteous thing to do. Plus, when you're ready to be finished when you remove signs your traffic will slow down considerably.

Once the leftovers are packed and the signs are down it's time to count your change, make a trip to the bank to turn all those quarters into cash and realize that yard sales are a lot of work!

Yard Sale! From tips to treasures...

2009-06-25T11:10:00.001-07:00

Have you been to a yard sale yet this season? I've been to a couple and found some great bargains already and I'm really excited about the upcoming street/community/subdivision yard sales. Although I watch for signs in my area on Thursday's and Friday's, I also visit craigslist since they have a section just for yard sales.

Some of the great deals I've already found were some Fisher Price Little People sets (barn, animals, etc.) for $2, Little People doll house plus all the pieces for $2, Sketchers shoes for my daughter, also $2, a large alphabet floor puzzle for .75 and lots of great books, always less than $1 and most just a quarter.

If you haven't been in years, have never been, or are considering taking your children along, here are a few things I've learned along the way.

Toss some sanitizing wipes in the car. I don't let a dirty plastic toy deter me from buying but I know there's a chance my daughter will want to play with it in the car so with the wipes I can give it a quick cleaning before handing it over to her. No wipes? Stash the toys in your trunk, out of sight, out of mind. Either way I give all toys a good cleaning at home.
Carry small bills and change. If you want to negotiate in hopes of getting that $10 item for $7, then you better be prepared to pull out $7 since asking for change from your $10 bill is just embarrassing. Plus, those who are having the yard sale are not bank tellers, they don't want to break your $20 for that $2 item you want to buy.
If you do negotiate be considerate, people are more willing to bargain if it's Saturday afternoon, not Friday morning and making an offer means you're interested. If they want to sell, they'll try to be reasonable too, trust me that they are trying to get over the fact that they paid $35 for that item which is marked for $10 and you're begging for less.
If kids are selling their own toys don't negotiate, it's their most prized possessions, just pay the price.
Watch where you park. You don't want to block traffic but be careful about driving/parking/pulling out in people's yards too. They are trying to make some extra money, not spend it on grass seed.
Speak up, ask questions and be nice. You aren't at Target and these are real people who probably spent hours getting things ready to sell. They don't want to haul it back in the house but they don't want to hear you say it's all junk either. Since they're selling they may know that but they still bought it.
Stick a small cooler in your car with snacks and drinks. You are out there trying to find bargains, not stop at every fast food place along the way.
If kids are selling lemonade, buy a cup. If you don't want to drink it, take it to the car, drive away and pour it out but at least they're trying to make their own money.

Jon and Kate - Did you watch the annoucement?

2009-06-23T06:54:00.000-07:00

I really debated blogging on this since I've not been a follower of this show and I know there are lots of opinions swirling out there but IN MY OPINION instead of ending their marriage they should have ended the show or taken a break at least. I know the show is what makes up their living but these are 8 small, loving children that are being impacted by this situation.

I was blessed to have parents that always made their marriage work. I'm sure it was lots of work and there were tough times but they did it and stuck by each other until my dads passing less than 2 years ago. There were family vacations, regular trips out of town, fun projects, friends around and lots of good times. But anyone that is married or has been married knows that times get tough, that's a part of it. People change, goals change and I think there is a reason marriage vows cover better/worse, richer/poorer, sickness/health, (polar opposites). You have to be prepared for it all and even when you're not, you have to lean on each other, be there for each other. It's not a 50/50 situation. Sometimes it's 60/40, sometimes it's 30/70, a marriage is a partnership and it takes two to make it work all the time.

I heard both Jon and Kate talk about their kids being their whole life and I'm not sure I agree with that, even though it's easy to fall into that belief. I want my kids to be a part of my life, not the other way around, make sense? I'd never say that kids aren't a top priority, they are, but not THE TOP. I have my faith and my love for my husband. Those things create a foundation for the way I want to raise my child and the life and love I want them to see, feel and be a part of. One day, a long time from now, my child will grow up and move on and if I'm living my life for my child and my child moves away, where is my life?

I think any parent can find similarities in their life and the situation between Jon and Kate but "reality" TV or not, it was painful to watch and I can't imagine what that family is going through. My prayers really are with them and what their future holds.

Freebies on your Birthday

2009-06-19T06:03:00.000-07:00

What do you get for free on your birthday? What about your kids birthday? There is an amazing site called free birthday treats where you can enter the state where you live and whether it's for an adult, child or pet and you can see all of the free birthday deals in your area!

Most of the items are for free food (appetizer, main course, dessert, % off your total) but there's also free bowling, free golf, free pictures for kids, % off at stores, etc.

Take a look, for a lot of the offers you need to sign up online but the list is long and you could be missing out on some free birthday specials at your favorite stores or restaurants!

There is also a section for ideas on birthday parties as well as a blog section with money saving tips and cool party themes.

Find a Freebie!

2009-06-19T05:20:00.000-07:00

When is the last time you got something for free? I'm on a quest to find things for free. They may take a LITTLE time, a stamp or a quick phone call but I'm on a hunt, what do you get for free? Check out my posts that start with the word, or keyword FREEBIE!

Last Day of My Month

2009-06-18T07:33:00.000-07:00

Today is the last "official" day of my 30 days devoted to my journey on the South Beach diet but you can expect plenty of future posts when I find new things or ideas. I can say, without a doubt, that it works and it's not as hard as I would've imagined. I've lost nearly 15 lbs amidst a holiday, family vacation and not being nearly as "strict" as I could have been. I feel better, I make better choices at almost every meal I have and I look forward to what the future weeks, months and even years bring. I've found new items in the grocery store and new ways to prepare meals and snacks. Thanks to everyone who commented and read along with me!

Familiar with Flax?

2009-06-05T12:27:00.000-07:00

Do you eat flax seeds? I hadn't until recently and after doing a little googling I'm learning that the health benefits are amazing!

For example...

They contain almost no glycemic carbohydrates so I can add it to meals to moderate spikes in blood sugar. I can add it to muffins, sprinkle some on yogurt (instead of granola), add it to cereal or salads. They have a mild nutty flavor and a great taste!

Plus, one tablespoon of milled flax seed contains approximately 1.5 grams of ALA, an essential Omega-3 fatty acid. (Recommended daily intake of ALA is 1.3 grams.) It's also a great source of fiber, protein and lots of other things!

If you cook with flax seeds, what recipes do you have?

Sick at the Beach

2009-06-02T07:22:00.000-07:00

What started as a tickle in my throat last Thursday morning turned into a fever, sore throat, coughing, aches and pains and after 4 tired days and 5 sleepless nights I am starting to feel better. Trust me that when standing in front of my pantry or fridge deciding on what to eat, thinking about carb levels were not the priority. Not that I went crazy, I chose tomato soup and chicken broth over the noodle soups and I had whole wheat crackers on hand too. Those sugar free Popsicles, jello and hard candies came in handy too. After a couple days I began to realize that after all this time I am starting to make better choices, without even thinking about it and it is getting easier. Grocery shopping is going a little faster, the options in my fridge and pantry are getting healthier and although the scale is still moving down slowly I realized that even when I felt my worst, I made good choices. I'm not just trying to do this, I am doing this and I feel better for it. Being sick at the beach isn't fun but I learned a lot about myself and felt a little better, despite the cold.

Spaghetti, Pizza, Italian oh my!

2009-05-27T11:59:00.001-07:00

I love spaghetti...and pizza...and lasagna...and garlic bread on the side. I love Italian food. This has to be one of my biggest challenges when watching carb levels so last week when family members ordered in a pizza I was worried. But I had one slice along with a salad and I felt content.

Then over the weekend I opened the pantry to start dinner and from the back of the cabinet I heard it, calling my name, the SPAGHETTI! I didn't fight it and made a separate pot of whole wheat noodles to go with my sauce (I like the Hunts meat sauce in a can, I add a pound of browned lean ground beef). To fight the garlic bread temptation I brushed a whole wheat English muffin with a little butter and sprinkled some Italian seasoning and garlic salt on the top and put it in the oven to get crunchy. At the end of the meal, I felt satisfied, comfortable and proud of myself for modifying a meal that I love with healthier options.

I can do this and I tell myself that everyday. I have moments of weakness but before I had days. Disastrous days when I felt yucky and knew I needed to make changes. I am making those changes and always reading, searching and figuring out more changes to make. One step at a time...speaking of steps, the next big change will be exercise!

Memorial Day Celebrations...on the Beach!

2009-05-25T08:03:00.000-07:00

Are you going to a cook-out or party today? Anyone that has ever tried to improve their eating habits knows that the time between Thanksgiving and Christmas is not the time to make that change. You've got parties, baked goods, family gatherings and the temptations are endless. But, regardless of when you try to make a change you're going to have to deal with some event or function that will potentially cause your diet to crash. But instead of thinking about falling off the wagon, don't even think about being on a wagon at all. What do I mean by that?

I am trying to improve my lifestyle. I am not on a diet or a temporary change in my eating habits, I am changing the overall way that I eat and approach food in general. To me, that means that I am not obsessed with "falling off of my diet". Going to a cookout means that I get a little more salad, cut up my grilled chicken to add to my salad and skip the bread, have a little potato salad and if I really want some dessert, I have a little. Were my eating habits perfect? Of course not, but I will feel like I can stick to something if I make changes like that. Instead of filling up on potato salad, a hamburger, some corn, baked beans, and a helping of dessert I make better choices that still leaving me content with what I ate.

Be realistic with yourself, your lifestyle and the food you really like to eat. Skipping a small serving of dessert at a party doesn't help if you go home with dessert on your mind and have a handful of cookies with a big glass of chocolate milk to wash them down.

Enjoy your memorial day!

Pass the Salad Please

2009-05-22T12:56:00.000-07:00

If you think salads are boring, maybe it's not the salad but what you choose to do with that lettuce in your bowl.

I've had a salad for lunch almost everyday for three weeks (plus a couple for dinner) and I'm still not tired of them. I change up the lettuce (spring mix, romaine, etc.) I switch out the proteins (hard boiled eggs, turkey bacon, grilled chicken leftover from dinner, deli turkey or ham, shredded cheese, feta cheese) I change up my toppings (tomatoes, cheese, sunflower seeds, almonds, etc.) and until three weeks ago I was all about ranch dressing but Kraft now makes some great tasting light vinaigrette's, my favorite is the light Raspberry Vinaigrette.

With the summer weather upon us are you craving a BLT? Make it a BLT salad, you've already got the lettuce just cut up some tomatoes, crumble some turkey bacon, toss in some shredded cheese and there's a summer favorite, without the bread! Be creative with your salads and save those carbs for when you really need them!

Water, Water Everywhere

2009-05-22T07:52:00.000-07:00

I'm always looking for new things to drink. Unfortunately I don't mean a strawberry margarita vs a regular one but that would be yummy too! What I'm referring to is different, low cal, drinks instead of just water. Don't get me wrong, I do drink water, a lot of water and when I'm really thirsty there is nothing like cool water, without ice, to really quench your thirst but while I'm trying to reduce daily calories, I try to always have a beverage in arms reach.

I don't have a hard time with caffeine so I keep un-sweet tea in the fridge (Lipton regular and the flavored teas box are good) and I get a box of the little drink packets for water bottles every time I'm at the grocery. Not that I go through a box every week but I dump the box into a Ziploc and always have a variety of options such as sugar free lemonade, Crystal Lights, store brands, Lipton green and white teas, I get a different one each time to always have a variety. I also keep V8 on hand and I give my daughter V8 Fusion light, mixed with water as an juice option.

I've also stumbled upon the sparkling water at both Target and Wal-mart. The one I'm drinking at the moment is from Target and it's a Raspberry Blackberry sparkling water beverage. It's calorie, caffeine and sodium free! Wal-mart has a line of them too and I've enjoyed the lemon, tropical and several other flavors, also without calories, caffeine or sodium. They are carbonated but I'd rather have one of these than a soft drink even though I LOVE Diet Sunkist.

What beverages do you enjoy that are low in calories?

Rise and Shine it's Time for Breakfast

2009-05-21T05:54:00.000-07:00

Good morning! If you've ever read about health and nutrition then you know that eating breakfast is important. It keep you happy, healthy, helps kids perform better in school and when eating breakfast you actually consume LESS calories throughout the day. I've always been a breakfast person so eating breakfast has not been a challenge, what I eat for breakfast has been the challenge.

I would love to have a bagel with cream cheese, or a big stack of fluffy pancakes but my problem with choosing things like that means that I'm "starving" just a couple hours later. As part of the South Beach diet I have changed what I eat for breakfast to scrambled eggs (sometimes with a little ham and cheese, like an omelet), or a hard boiled egg or fried egg with some turkey bacon. Notice the difference? PROTEIN! Eating breakfast like that means that I can make it till lunch, often without a snack, but if I do need a snack I'm content with a piece of cheese or something else small. I feel better all morning and don't feel a carb crash like I did before.

But what about those mornings when I have 4 minutes before I need to get out the door? You're right, standing there and cooking eggs is not an option (which is another reason I boil 4-6 eggs at a time, peel them and have them ready). A great recipe I found on recipezaar was for some muffins that used ground flax seeds, eggs, peanut butter, ricotta cheese, Splenda and a handful of other ingredients. I made mini-muffins since they are really dense but doing a batch of these over the weekend means that on a rushed morning I can grab a hard boiled egg, 1 or 2 of these mini muffins and I've had a healthy, protein filled breakfast on the go! Before I would have grabbed a couple breakfast bars or filled a cup with cereal for the car, again, starting my day with carbs.

Like I mentioned yesterday, if you've not visited recipezaar you should try it out, I've never posted a recipe there and don't get money from them but I love their variety, user comments and ease of printing. I've been searching for South Beach recipes but their search options are endless, give it a try and let me know what recipes you try and like.

In the meantime, enjoy breakfast and think outside the box....the cereal box that is!

Bring on the Sweet Treats

2009-05-20T06:31:00.000-07:00

What's your weakness when watching what you eat? Sweet? Salty? Alcohol? Fried Food? Mine is definitely sweets. Sure going without crackers and pretzels wasn't easy at first but it was just a matter of choosing new snacks. But when I get a craving for sweets, a handful of peanuts or a small cup of cottage cheese isn't going to help.

With a little time and effort I've found a couple low calorie options that are much better than what I would have reached for awhile ago.

A quick fix is a Sugar Free Fudgesicle or Creamsicle. They have 30-45 calories depending on what brand you get and will often satisfy a sweet tooth. If you can wait about an hour, stick that Fudgesicle in the microwave for about 10 second to soften it, scrape it off the stick and into a small bowl, add 2 tbsp of crunchy peanut butter (or smooth if you prefer) a small scoop of light whipped topping like Cool Whip and mix it all up. Put it back in the freezer for about an hour (if you can wait that long) and than you have a lower cal, "blizzard type" treat!

If cookies are more your taste than you can take 1 cup of peanut better (smooth or crunchy), 1 cup of Splenda, and 1 egg. Mix it all together and drop onto a cookie sheet. Bake for 10 minutes at 350 deg. I get 12-15 cookies when I make them. They will satisfy a craving and you aren't going to sit and eat all of them at once, one or two and you're craving is probably gone without crashing your day.

If you've never used ricotta cheese as part of sweet treat, try that too. A little part skim ricotta with a packet of Splenda and a couple teaspoons of vanilla, mix it up, stick that in the freezer to chill for about 30 min and you have something that's really close to vanilla ice cream!

If you like these ideas then you may want to take a look at recipezaar for more ideas, I just looked up South Beach diet and found these and a lot more, most of which are phase specific to make it even easier.

Motivate Me!

2009-05-19T04:32:00.000-07:00

I can't say what my motivation was behind starting the South Beach Diet. I guess there was a lot of reasons but something inside me felt different this time, I felt like I could do it. I wasn't doing this for an occasion or for someone else, I was doing it for me. I decided to make a change before I was put into a situation where I had to for medical, health, or any other reason. What was my motivation? I guess it was me!

It's my life, my body, my health, so why shouldn't I be the one to motivate myself. I have stumbled across something else that's been a good motivator when I have a moment or temptation where I'm struggling. The current issue of Good Housekeeping has an article called Food Critic. Bottom line, there are lots of food critics in your life. People who want to weigh in, comment and judge what you eat or do and how you do it. They may say cruel, hurtful things and claim to do it in love but there are better ways to support people. The author of the article is Geneen Roth. She has a good site that I've been reading through and several books that I haven't read but if you need some motivation for a change, check it out!

South Beach Success

2009-05-18T12:12:00.000-07:00

I'm writing about a topic that is really DANGEROUS...dieting.

Not just any diet since I'm not an expert, a doctor, a nutritionist, you get the idea. I am a person who needed to make some big improvements in my lifestyle and eating habits so for two weeks now I've been on the South Beach Diet.

It all started about three weeks ago when I went to the Trash to Treasure party that I posted about and an aunt mentioned to me that she was trying it and she's been doing great! The week that followed I read the book, went to the grocery (reading labels takes awhile!) and made a commitment to myself. Two weeks later I am through Phase 1 and down 10+ lbs! More than the scale I feel better and no longer have those CRAZY carb cravings. I used to have a bagel or instant oatmeal for breakfast, crackers for a snack, a sandwich for lunch, feel like I needed something sweet in the afternoon then a well rounded dinner...that had more carbs. I won't lie that the first two days of NO CARBS was not easy but I did it and knew that if I could make it through the first week I could do it and I have. It doesn't even feel like a diet, more like a lifestyle change.

If you are doing, or have done, South Beach I'd love to hear from you. For at least the next month I'll be posting daily comments, tips, helpful hints and things I've discovered so far. I'm not trying to fit into a bikini, run a marathon or fit into "skinny jeans", I just want to feel better about myself and be a living example to the kind of eating habits I want my daughter to have.

Tip - Sometimes you've got to cheat!
If I am craving a piece of that Easter candy that's been hanging around, I drink a glass of water, wait at least 30 minutes and if I'm still craving it, I eat it! Chances are one piece will cure the craving, I'll get over it and instead of eating hundreds of calories trying to suppress it and still eating the candy, doing it and moving on will make me feel like I splurged and satisfy craving!

Playin' in the Rain

2009-05-08T07:30:00.000-07:00

Here in Kentucky we have had more than our fair share of rain lately and my daughter is getting good use out of the cute ladybug raincoat she got for Easter.

Earlier this week the rain let up enough to put her in her jacket, her Croc-like shoes and let her enjoy the wet weather. She loved jumping in the puddles, smacking her hands on the water that had pooled on the tables outside and sticking her feet under the downspouts and letting the water fill up her shoes.

I realized that I am so blessed to be a mom with a working situation where I can see her everyday and watch her experience firsts like that one. It's one of those moments that I'll remember forever.

Favorite Side Dish- Mine takes less than 10 minutes!

2009-04-30T06:38:00.000-07:00

Seems like every few months I reach a "rut" in my meal prep where I feel like I make the same things over and over again. I can mix up the the meat options a little, especially now that the weather is good for grilling but I need some new, quick sides. Do you have a favorite?

I'd have to say that my favorite QUICK side dish is to take a can of Campbell's condensed cream soup (Cream of Chicken, Cream of Mushroom, etc.) add that to a pot, refill the can with water and add that, stir it up and bring it to a boil. Fill the can with rice and once the liquid boils, add the rice, put the lid on the pot and give it 5-6 minutes. It will still be a little "soupy" so it needs to sit for a couple minutes then add a little salt and pepper and it's done! A quick side in less than 10 minutes and I almost always have rice and some variety of that soup on hand.

Hopefully this comes in handy for you, do you have any side dish ideas you can share?

Trash to Treasure Party a Success!

2009-04-27T05:40:00.000-07:00

Hopefully you caught my first Trash to Treasure post back on April 2nd, if not click here.

We had our party on Saturday and not only was it a lot of fun, there were some great finds too! For example, a friend of mine brought a single size electric skillet that she had never used but was given to her as a housewarming party gift several years ago. When my grandmother saw it she decided that was the perfect size for her!

I got a couple of Disney movies on VHS from someone that had upgraded to DVDs, while most of what we have is DVD at home, we have a TV downstairs with a VHS player and those will be perfect when my daughter needs to be distracted downstairs for a few minutes.

There were also lots of people that picked up hair products and other beauty products there were either used a couple times or not at all- a great way to try new products! Same with bags, purses, and shoes, we all know that you get tired of those things long before they wear out, so many people got new items for their spring wardrobe.

As you can see we had lots of fun and got some great items too! We kept our food simple with some fruit, a couple dips, shrimp cocktail and some delicious desserts. Each person brought a beverage to share (wine or soft drinks) and we spent several hours on Saturday relaxing and having fun.

Whether it's yard sales, consignment shops or parties like this one I hope you think of creative ways to turn your trash into treasure!

Talk Derby To Me!

2009-04-24T07:41:00.001-07:00

I love our city this time of year! This is when we make the national news for great reasons and this weekend marks the halfway point of the Kentucky Derby Festival. If you live near Louisville, KY and haven't been to any of the events (there are plenty of free ones) then you are really missing out! Sure there are crowds and at many of the free events they do ask that you purchase a Derby Festival pin but from the Thunder fireworks to balloon glows, glimmers and races there is a lot to do for the whole family including parades, parties and fun all over the city! (They have a website that lists all of the events and details.)

I've had the privilege of attending some the ticketed events including being on the Belle of Louisville during the Steamboat Race (it's not as exciting as it sounds), sitting front and center for the They're Off Luncheon, being on Millionaires Row for the Celebrity Luncheon before Oaks Day and seeing Thunder from a riverfront suite, 18 floors up!

Regardless of your seat though, witnessing some of these events in a crowd of people can be breathtaking. When you are surrounded by hundreds of people, the sun finally sets and a field suddenly fills with dozens of rising hot air balloons, it's amazing! Or to watch those horses coming around the back stretch at Churchill Downs, even on a non-Derby day race, you feel their energy, power and you understand the passion that some people have with horse racing.

Like I said, this is definitely my favorite time of year here, the streets are clean, everything is in bloom and there is this "feeling" that everyone is putting their best foot forward to show the nation what we're all about. I hope your city has a celebration or event that makes you proud and want to be a part of it, we're all part of something much bigger and I think those events that put in into perspective are fun, exciting, and magical.

Earth Day

2009-04-22T11:30:00.001-07:00

I hope everyone has a great Earth Day! We are having great weather here in KY after several days of cold temps and rainy weather.

Whether you are pulling weeds, planting trees or teaching a child about the benefits of recycling I hope you have a wonderful day today!

If you are looking for something do to today, check out my post from two days ago about the Kroger contest where you can send them your idea for a bag and get a reusable free bag!

Living with a Ghost

2009-04-22T11:17:00.001-07:00

I think I live with a ghost. Why do I think that? I sat down on the couch last night after bath time and bedtime and pulled a soup ladle out from under the cushion. I grabbed the blanket on the back of the couch and out fell a plastic shovel. As odd as those things were I went to the kitchen and found half of the drawers pulled out, some green beans in the fridge, still in the can, the UN opened can. I put those in the pantry and found shredded cheese, yes, from the cold section in the store. As you can see, I may live with a ghost!

On second thought, I went to the grocery and my daughter helped me unload the bags, then she helped me make supper and played in her room. Maybe I don't live with a ghost after all.

Going Green- Kroger Contest

2009-04-16T07:42:00.000-07:00

I have a confession...I LOVE the reusable shopping bags that everyone seems to be selling and promoting. However, I also have to confess that I don't always carry them into the grocery with me. They are in the car and I always use them to minimize my trips in the house and I do use them when I go in the store for a non-weekly trip but having a cart full of groceries, a child, a purse and a teenage cashier than rolls her eyes when I pull out 15 bags to use for my groceries isn't my idea of a good time. Even though I am thinking, I bought these are your store and when you are an adult and wearing an oxygen mask due to the pollution I hope you remember all the times you rolled your eyes!

Anyways, my point is that I found a contest that Kroger is offering where you can design a reusable bag! If you submit an entry you get a free bag and if yours is selected you could win $1000! I didn't read all the rules yet but the link is here. I did see that you need to be over 13 years old to enter so moms who are teaching their children about the environment and recycling might be interested and with Earth Day on April 22nd it could be a fun family activity!

Back Off!

2009-04-16T05:35:00.000-07:00

I believe in assertive driving, I really do. I think there are times in life and on the road that you don't need to "pushed around" but I have a real issue with aggressive driving. My complaint this morning is passing and tailgating.

We live in a rural county that neighbors a county that is very populated with a large city so our area has come to be known as a "bedroom community" meaning that people live there but make the drive to the next county for work. Because of that combination I am accustomed to passing slower traffic on the one 2-lane road out of our county. I drive to work each morning in the dark so when someone is driving much slower than myself I wait for clear section, put on my signal, pass them, then get back over and give them plenty of room. But every once in awhile I pass someone that was either half asleep or on the phone and then decide that they want to drive faster now so they speed up and tailgate. The morning was one of those times. I did what I always do and then it happened. They sped up, turned on their brights and followed too close all the way to the expressway, where the 2 lanes open up to 4. When this person got beside me I saw a young girl and judging by the stickers on her Jeep, was still in high school. I was furious!

I am not always a perfect driver but I am cautious and I take things into consideration. If someone is speeding, maybe their late or have an emergency but things like this are just rude and dangerous. What I don't understand is that if someone passes me with a grocery cart I don't walk faster or run up behind them. Or if someone walks around me in the mall I don't glare at them. Why does a car make someone feel entitled to act like that?

I don't think the girl this morning knew I had a child in the car, or thought she was doing anything dangerous but I hope one day when she's a mom and has a child in the car that she thinks long and hard about how she drives and how it effects others around her. Until then I hope she doesn't tailgate someone that slams on the brakes faster than she expects. Cars are not safety capsules and if you don't have at least two seconds between you and the car in front of you BACK OFF!

Need A Button

2009-04-15T11:41:00.001-07:00

I'm looking for a blogger out there with their own button, my question is, how did you create it?

I'm pretty web and computer savvy but can't seem to figure this out on my own so any help is appreciated!

$mart and Involved Shopper

2009-04-14T07:48:00.001-07:00

Are you an involved shopper? Let me explain what I mean by that question. I have always been the type shopper to call a product manufacturer if my package was supposed to have 5 items in the box and only had 4 and, without fail, they send me a coupon for a free item replacement and thank me for my call. I've not been rude, I just explain the case and see how they offer to help.

BUT a fellow new mom friend is much more involved than me. She bought two packages of diapers, got them hope, opened them, and noticed that one package was different. It was the same brand she's been buying, same packaging on the outside, but the closure and lining of the diapers in one pack were a little different. She sent them an email to ask if they were changing their product and her store and receipt information and in addition to a response saying they were testing some new ideas, she received $50 in coupons for free diapers! Again, she wasn't rude she just wanted to know if they were changing their product and being an involved shopper really paid off! I haven't had any luck that good but my experience so far has been that manufacturer's want to know what you think and if you love a product, tell them, it may really pay off!

No Sugar Added Easter

2009-04-14T07:31:00.001-07:00

I hope everyone had a wonderful Easter weekend! We had a great time with our daughter's first egg hunt, coloring eggs and lots of fun with family. She also received her first TWO Easter baskets! Some people have asked about the type of baskets she got because my husband was raised in a NO SUGAR household and we are doing the same with our daughter. It's not for medical reasons, it's for general health reasons.

In the past week I've heard stories from other parents about the baskets their children have received that are full of chocolate bunnies, sugary peeps, and other treats that we all saw stocked on the shelves for the holiday. But her basket had a kite, a Bible stories book, several small outside play balls, a couple books, goldfish crackers, a daisy plant that she can assemble with help, and lots of other goodies but no candy. I wanted her to have a basket but I didn't want her to need a sugar detox after the weekend.

I can't say that it was always be easy, especially once she's older and can make her own decisions about the food she eats but I hope we raise her to choose healthier options and reserve sweets as treats!

Do you have healthy treat options for your kids? She loves fruit smoothies and they are her favorite treat but I'd love to have a couple other options!

Trash to Treasure Party- Spring Cleaning Idea

2009-04-02T07:31:00.001-07:00

I'm so excited! Some of my friends and family are getting together in a couple weeks for a Trash to Treasure Party!

It was something we came up with after a couple conversations about spring cleaning and the fact that we always end up with boxes or bags of things that aren't really garbage but we aren't sure what to do with the stuff. For example, I love to try new hair products but my curly hair isn't always so excited so I end up with great products that have only been used a dozen times...not really trash but not useful to me anymore. Or purses that I carried a season or two, gently used. I wouldn't mind to GIVE it away but I don't really want to THROW it away! Sure, I could have a yard sale but it's not really THAT much stuff. Now as I start cleaning out closets, going through clothing and accessories, I have a mission in mind! The hard part will not be coming home with too much "trash" that I decide is a treasure.

I'll keep you posted about our party but this should be lots of fun and a good reason to get together and "shop for free"!

Parents- Each Day is a Gift

2009-03-31T06:24:00.000-07:00

I love blogging about fun stuff, light stuff, but this isn't one of those posts. This may be one that you opt not to read and that's okay. My question is, how is your relationship with your parents? Before you roll your eyes and skip this post let me tell you where I'm coming from.

I'm less than 35 years old, married with a young child and almost two years ago my dad passed away. He had liver cancer for 7 years and, although he wasn't sick all the time, he had more than enough hospital visits, tests, procedures, trips to ICU, etc. and there isn't a day that goes by that I wouldn't love to have another day or week with him to talk, laugh, listen to stories and have him spend time with his only grandchild. From when she was born, till he passed, it was four months and I am thankful for the time they had together but I can't help but wish there had been more.

I'm not an expert on relationships or dealing with emotions and maybe some bad things happened between you and your parents but good things happened too, which ones are you holding on to? The good and the bad are both true but you have a choice and I know the disagreements I had with my dad only symbolize lost or wasted time. If you are reading this and your parents are still living, don't wish later that things had been different, make things the way you want them to be NOW. Each day is a gift, that's why it's called the present. Enjoy it, treasure it and don't regret it later.

Brighten a Day for Less than a Buck

2009-03-30T12:54:00.000-07:00

In the day of emails, iphones and even blogging, when was the last time you sent a real card? Maybe an easier question, when was the last time you got a card? Your birthday, Valentines day, Christmas? If I had to guess I bet you remember the last time you got a card, who it was from and what it was for, am I right? That means that the last card you sent is remembered by someone the same way.

Yesterday, I was picking up a couple cards and noticed that there are some really expensive cards out there but there are also nice cards that you could send for less than a dollar, including the stamp! I prefer to keep a stack of cards at home for a variety of purposes so I go to card warehouse stores, dollar stores, and buy after holidays then all I need is a stamp. Speaking of stamps, I buy the forever stamps since I can't go through all my stamps before postage goes up and I know there is another scheduled increase in a couple months.

Anyways, maybe someone shared a great recipe, or a friend told you about a new store where you found some great deals. There are lots of reasons to send a card so with a few minutes of your time and less than a dollar you could bless someones day. Thanks for stopping by and I hope you have a blessed day!

Product Opinions- Thumbs Down

2009-03-30T12:03:00.001-07:00

Like I mentioned a couple weeks ago in my first Product Opinions post, there are some baby and toddler products I loved and others that I didn't. Again, I want to say that this is just my opinion as a first time parent and I don't think any of these items are un-safe, I just didn't care for them or didn't use them. Again, these are in no certain order.

Chicco High Chair. That is one of the most difficult items for me to give a thumbs down. Chicco has some great products and I loved the stroller and car seat but the high chair was another story. Like I said, it was safe and did the job but unless you want to get toothpicks and Q-tips out to clean this chair I wouldn't recommend adding this to your wish list. I agree that all high chairs have some level of difficulty to clean but the padding in the the corners, the logo on the front strap, the crevice between your child's legs are all places that could be designed better. If you disagree and loved this chair, feel free to comment.

The Piddle Pad. Have you seen these odd shaped car seat pads? They fold and fit into your car seat to prevent a possible diaper leak from soaking the car seat. I'll be honest, it's still in the package in my daughters closet. We did travel by car with an infant (our longest trip was 9 hours) and never had a diaper problem. I think this was something that previous generations would have used since I don't think diapers were designed so well but I can't say if this product works or not, I never used it.

Baby Bjorn body carrier. I have a feeling that this item goes both ways with new parents. I see parents using them and I'm sure there are a lot of people out there that love them but, for the value, we didn't use it much at all. Twice I think? I did have a Playtex Hip Hammock that I really liked and used but the Baby Bjorn was something I always had in the car and always thought I'd use more than I did. Before adding this to your wish list I'd think about how you spend your free time now and remember, you could always go out and buy one later or hang on to some of those gift cards.

Boudreaux's Butt Paste. This is another one of those common items that everyone seems to be beeping with their scanners. I got half a dozen small tubs and a container that looks like something ice cream could come in and in the first year and a half we haven't used more than a couple ounces. When my daughter has a diaper rash, which is rare thankfully, I use corn starch. That's right, 89 cents in the baking goods isle and a box lasts a long time. I'm NOT a doctor but a family member recommended it to me after saying that's what she used a long time ago and I can see a difference in just a couple hours. Now, if she's got a diaper rash that's a problem I may use the butt paste overnight but during the day, when she's getting frequent diaper changes, I use corn starch. There is also a Johnson's powder (blue cap) that has corn starch added and I keep that in my diaper bag, just in case!

Those are the items that first come to mind but I'm sure I'll add more later, feel free to add your own or comment on any of the items that I've listed here! Thanks for stopping by!

Just Breathe

2009-03-24T10:32:00.000-07:00

As I was rocking my daughter to sleep night before last night I was glancing at the clock and going through my list of things to do before bed..empty the dishwasher, finish lunches, fold clothes in dryer..and as I felt her breathing even out and I knew she was nearly asleep. I laid her in the crib and, like so many nights recently, her head popped up. I put my hand on her back and rubbed slowly and I could hear her breathing even out again. Instead of rushing out, I stayed and listened to her soft breathing and pushed my list out of my mind. Instead I said a prayer for her and asked that whether she's 2 or 12 that I can still be in her room at night and feeling her peaceful breath and, in that moment, feel so blessed and thankful.

Those moments of her peacefulness remind me of so many times in my life. Moments when work was too much and I had to stop and take a breath myself. Moments when relationships weren't easy but a quick prayer and silence calmed things. But mostly the many moments in my dads last month where I would listen for his peaceful breathing each morning and pray that I could hear I still hear it and the ease I felt when I could. There are so many moments when the best thing to do was...just breathe.

Your Baby Can Read?

2009-03-23T08:13:00.000-07:00

Hello again to everyone attending the Ultimate Blog Party 2009! I've meet lots of great people already and read more blogs in the past few days that ever before! One theme that seems to keep coming up in the blogs I read is reading, education, past and current teachers and moms who are home schooling.

Like I've mentioned my daughter is not yet 2 but we already spend time everyday reading and active learning. For nearly 10 years I worked with an organization that was all about teaching parents that they are their child's first teacher and I believe that to be true. But I have a family member, who I love and respect, that is very interested in the Your Baby Can Read info that I'm sure everyone has seen on TV. Although it's not cheap and I've read plenty of good reviews online, I'm curious if anyone out there has tried it to say if it's worth the investment. Thanks for your comments and for stopping by!

Add a Button?

2009-03-22T14:42:00.000-07:00

Hello there to everyone visiting from the Ultimate Blog Party 2009! I seem to be having some trouble adding a button to my site and I've seen some great ones to add, any help out there? I use Google to blog through and yes, I'm new at this!

Raising a Girl

2009-03-22T11:42:00.000-07:00

I found this about two years ago online, just after I found out that I was expecting a girl. I've kept it in her room since then and, although I don't know the writer, it describes so many of my thoughts and fears of raising a daughter.

I won't always be able to protect her from others, but I hope to protect her from herself.
I hope that I can instill in her a love for herself.
I want her to look in the mirror and see somebody beautiful, I don't want to transfer my own self image issues.
I hope that I can teach her how to deflect harsh words.
I hope that I can teach her courage. There are so many opportunities in life I hope she can pursue because she's brave.
I hope to be able help her silence that voice in her head that tells her, "it's too hard" or "you can't do it" because she can.
I hope that she will feel empathy. I hope she can learn to forgive.
When others are hurting, I hope she will choose to help and not be one to kick them further down.
I hope that she will grow to be independent, but allow others to guide her and assist her when needed.
I hope she will learn when to ask for help.
I hope that I can teach her to persevere.
When she doesn't succeed at something, I hope to help her try again. And again. I've know defeat and let it win.
I want her to know defeat and beat it!
I hope that her self worth will be based on her accomplishments and successes.
A man in her life should not be a determining factor in how happy she can be.
I hope that she will remember her friends and not give them up for a temporary relationship.
I hope she sees how her dad loves me.
She should know that true love doesn't hurt.
I hope she will how much she is loved.
We are her family.
Always.
She needs me.
She needs me becuase I've been there and felt that hurt and felt the joys.
I hope that I'm up for that challenge.
I hope that I can accept her for who she becomes.

Why Up Too Early?

2009-03-22T10:37:00.000-07:00

So why Up Too Early? I'm sure the assumption is that I have a job, a toddler, a home so I have plenty of reasons to be up too early but the real reason that title came to mind is that I get up with my husband every morning before he goes to work. Although he works first shift just like I do, he often needs to get up at 4 am...or earlier... to make the drive to work (about 30 minutes) and be there before his crew arrives. I get up before he does to make his lunch, his breakfast and enjoy a little bit of time with him before he leaves the house. For years now I've had the friends and family that know I do this, ask why I do it but the bottom line is that it's important to me and it means a lot to him and I want to know he sees my face every morning before work. Sometimes it's the only quiet time we have alone together. I'm not suggesting that every married person do it and even though sometimes it feels Too Early I still do it. Other than the days I was in the hospital and recovering from my C-section childbirth, I have done it every morning we've been married and, God willing, always will. Basically, I do what works for my marriage and family.

There is a song by Alabama called It Works and listening to this song always reminded me of my parents. There is a line which says "we may not see it the way they see it, we may not do it the way they do but he lives his life for her and she lives her life for him and it works". Every couple out there figures out a way to make it work for them, my parents did it and their decades of marriage was a testimony to that fact. I just pray that I do what's needed to make it all work in my life.

Product Opinions- Thumbs Up

2009-03-22T08:25:00.000-07:00

Like I said in my first Product Opinions post, there area some products I loved and here is the first list with my comments, in no certain order.

Dark colored bibs. I ended up with lots of pink, yellow, even white bibs but once my daughter was eating baby food, those carrots and peas meant I was always scrubbing bibs so I picked up a 5 pack of dark bibs and they are still great for spaghetti nights!

The Miracle Blanket. We had lots of great blankets for swaddling and both my husband and I learned how to swaddle at the hospital but by the time she was a couple months old she was wiggling out. During a pediatrician trip a mom mentioned them to me and we immediately bought The Miracle Blanket online. The first night she slept longer than before and didn't wiggle out. We used it for MONTHS and she was sleeping through the night, safe and warm.

Diaper Champ. I was someone that didn't register for, or want, a diaper contraption but a friend at work gave me the Diaper Champ since she loved it and swore that I didn't need filters, special bags, etc. I was hesitant at first but have loved it since the beginning and the the odor is never a problem.

A glider. I started out with a normal rocking chair in her room but within the first month by back and legs ached so we watched for coupons and waited for a sale and got a great glider/foot stool combo from Babies R Us for less than $100. It made all the difference some nights, especially while nursing.

Cloth Diapers. I used these as burp cloths and loved them, they were easy to wash, didn't stain and once our kid days are over, I can use them as dust rags! I admire anyone that opts to use cloth diapers instead of disposable but that wasn't for me. BUT when she did get a couple bad diaper rashes I use the cloth diapers with large safety pins to give her bottom some "breathing time" without worrying about accidents all over the place.

Tabletoppers by Neat Solutions. These disposable table mats are great for young ones that eat off the table instead of out of a bowl. They have four sticky strips that peel off and stick to a restaurant table for a clean eating surface for your child and they have fun designs and colors on them to keep them entertained. I've found them at Target and Babies/Toys R Us and always carry a couple in my diaper bag. They are also Eco-Friendly! I have disposable bibs too, I don't use them as often but I do keep a couple in my diaper bag, just in case!

Those are the first products that come to mind but I'll post more soon, especially those crucial items like our car seat, stroller and other "gotta have" items. Thanks for stopping by!

Product Opinions

2009-03-22T08:06:00.000-07:00

I was going through my daughters baby book and came across my registry list from when we were expecting. As I scanned page after page I realized that there were items I loved and couldn't live without and others that were barely used at all. I also remember the trip after trip to add new items and the fact that the only real guidance I had on what to register for was from the store. Something doesn't seem right about that, at all! Sure, I asked friends and family but most had second kids so they were re-using items.

So if you have young kids or are expecting, over the next couple weeks I'll post some lists of items I loved, didn't, and other items that I didn't register for at all but really came in handy! Of course, all of this is my opinion and it doesn't profit me whether you buy or suggest any of these items and, by all means, if you have items to add, feel free to comment!

Ultimate Blog Party- Hoping for Prizes

2009-03-21T15:21:00.000-07:00

Hello again! So part of my party participation means listing out some prizes I might like to win, there are some great ones! WOW! Let's see 2, 5, 19, 21, 26, 88....there are so many great ones!

Thanks to the girls at 5 Minutes for Moms!

Ultimate Blog Party 2009!

2009-03-21T15:01:00.000-07:00

Along with hundreds of others I'm going to the Ultimate Blog Party 2009 hosted by 5 Minutes for Mom's! This will by my first blog party and I was invited by Heather over at Just Doing My Best and even though I'm fashionable late (it started yesterday) I'm exicted and eager to meet new people and have new readers. Seems like most of my readers are real world friends that send emails so I'm ready for some comments and to meet new people in the online world of blogging.

I'm a wife and mom of one toddler girl. She's a year and a half and quite a handful but also a lot of fun and eager to learn about her world. Although I work full time, my job is flexible and she actually goes to work with me everyday! I am so blessed to have a work situation like I do. I love to write, meet new people and learn new things so blogging has been a lot of fun already and I'm ready to learn more and meet more new people! Thanks for stopping by!

Shopping $mart- Thrift Store Finds

2009-03-20T09:48:00.000-07:00

Have you seen these cute little toys? I seriously considered buying on at Christmas for my daughter but didn't, due to cost, and picked up a pack of the tadoodle markers and crayons instead. She also received some as gifts and seems to enjoy writing with them, especially the crayons.

Well, this week I made a trip up to the local thrift store and found the art station, for $1.41! Needless to say I bought it, put new batteries in and it works great. Sure it didn't include the tadoodles but for less than $2 it was more than a bargain. I also found several Old Navy tshirts for my daugher, all less than $1 and several pair of shorts at great prices!

Regardless of how tight your family budget is, you can find good deals and good prices. All you need is a little time, patience and knowledge that some trips to thrift stores will better than others!

Discipline with a Whisper

2009-03-20T09:41:00.000-07:00

I want to say a quick thank you to all who emailed me with suggestions on getting back on my feet after suffering with the worst cold I've had in years. After nearly two weeks I am feeling almost 100% again.

I have to admit that disciplining a toddler when you can barely speak above a whisper was quite a challenge but it taught me a few things about the important of eye contact and making sure they are paying attention to you when you speak, to avoid repeating everything you say.

It also made me very aware of washing my hands and doing all that I could to avoid spreading it around.

Thanks again to everyone, I'm ready to get back to blogging!

Achoo!

2009-03-13T05:42:00.000-07:00

Usually when I hear that "everyone" is sick I don't worrry, I generally don't get sick. I think the last time I was ill was December of 2007, when my dad passed away and there was a lot of contributing factors. From the funeral, to sleepless night with a 4 month old and stress in general, I wasn't surprised. The worst part of that, other than the obvious, was the fact that my breastfeeding meant that my daughter got a cold too.

Anyways, this time I've got one of those up-all-night, dozing-during-the-day, nothing-seems-to-help, I'm running out of tissues, nose spray, cold meds and patience sort of colds. Each day I think it's getting a little better but by early evening I'm exhausted and feeling worse. I've tried hot tea and warm soups and everything else I can think of, does anyone out there have a suggestion? This is day 5 and I need sleep, to breath normally and a face that doesn't look like a red-nosed reindeer.

Shopping $mart- Thrift Stores

2009-03-09T12:18:00.000-07:00

Not too long ago I was searching for a very specific item and didn't want to pay full price so, at a friends suggestion, I opened the phone book and started calling local thrift stores. When I found one that had what I needed I jumped in the car and drove the 10 minutes to get there. On the way there I thought I knew what to expect, old hats, 20 year old furniture and other items that probably should have been destined for the trash. However, what I found was the opposite. I found children's clothing, in a variety of sizes and styles, in just as good of condition as what I found at yard sales, my other weakness. For example, I picked up a Lands End snow suit, in a 3T, for about $2.00. Sure, my daughter isn't a 3T but she will be in another season or two. I also found several fleece tops for her, all less than $3.00. I picked up a couple Gap and Old Navy tops for less than $1.00. From jeans to shoes, I decided that this was the ultimate indoor yard sale and I make a trip about once a month. Sure, sometimes I walk out with a bag of great finds and other times I have a couple items but either way, it was worth my time. Plus, they have 20% off on Mondays! If you haven't visited local thrift stores in your area I'd suggest you open up the phone book and take a look, some are better than others but if you have children of any age, they are great places to stock up and shop $mart.

Up Too Early for DST

2009-03-08T06:12:00.000-07:00

Good morning! Usually I'm up too early for work but this morning it's the dreaded Daylight Savings Time. I understand that it was developed by Ben Franklin for energy savings and to take advantage of daylight but what I know is the my toddler can't read a clock. She doesn't understand that even though her body still says one time the clocks say a new time.

At least this is the start of DST so we moved our clocks forward but tonight her little body will want another hour of playtime instead of getting into the bath and ready for bed and that will start the 2-3 days of adjustment period. I'm sure it will get easier as she gets older but in the meantime we'll head outside to play today and run a little more, stay out a little longer and take advantage of the nice weather so that she's ready for bed when the clocks say it's time.

Shopping $mart - Yard Sales

2009-03-07T17:42:00.001-08:00

I've always been up for a bargain but since becoming a mom I've really started paying more and more attention to being a smart shopper. I do my best to cut coupons (does anyone have any tips for organizing them?), I shop sale ads, and I try to avoid unnecessary trips to the store to avoid unnecessary purchases. Plus, I LOVE yard sales.

Now I plan yard sale trips like a grocery store trip, carefully plan my route and keep small bills and change on hand in a change purse I can keep in my pocket. I have a strategy going in to get a feel for what I can expect. I start with the clothing first to determine sizes, girls or boys, condition? As long as they are size my daughter is in or will be in the next year I start looking. If it's boys clothes I look for basic items and depending on the condition, I think about play clothes and go from there. The condition of the clothes gives me a feel for toys, books and videos or DVDs. Everyone hears that kids outgrow clothes before they wear them out and that's true, plus if I do really well at a yard sale I make a mental note and when I see a sign that they are having a sale, I know the sizes and condition are probably the same. Before paying, I do a quick check on what I have and what my total is and decide whether I feel like negotiating or not. If I decide to, then I know I have small bills on hand to pay the price I bargained. Something doesn't seem right about bargaining from $10 to $8 then pulling out a $10 bill. Plus, I never bargain with kids if they are the ones selling their items. I remember being that age and selling my things and the fact that they are there and participating makes me willing to pay the price, if I want the item.

As the weather gets warmer, check the paper, watch for signs and check craigslist for postings in your area. If you have kids, you'll be glad you did!

If you want more tips for shopping smart, visit Heather at Just Doing My Best for lots of great tips and coupons!

Mom's Don't Wear Black

2009-03-07T17:06:00.000-08:00

I've noticed in the past year and a half that my favorite black shirts seem to creep further and further to the back of my closet so yesterday I decided that the weather was warm enough to wear one of my favorite short sleeve shirts, a black one. I put it on, wondered why I didn't wear it more last season, and went on with my day. By lunchtime, I realized why I didn't wear black much anymore. I could see yogurt, dirt, cheese, and some other crusty items that must have crossed my daughters hands that morning. Does being a mom mean giving up black clothing? I managed to get most of the foreign objects off with a damp rag but as the day went on I noticed that I was cleaning my shirt as much as hers, then, after a battle over a nap, I realized that boogers show on black.

Minute for Me

2009-03-05T08:04:00.001-08:00

When was the last time you had 30 minutes to yourself? There are 10,080 minutes in each week and if you're like most parents you probably struggle to find time for yourself between the errands, meals, projects and caring and spending time with your children. Any free minutes you do have make you feel like collapsing instead of maximizing your minutes. Like so many other things in our lives you need to take the time to schedule the time.

Whether you call a friend, have a massage, do an at-home beauty treatment, read a book, take a walk, or find a quiet place to be alone, make the time for yourself. Put yourself on your list, you'll be glad that you did.

Mom Moment

2009-03-04T11:46:00.000-08:00

After another weekly trip to the grocery store I've decided that the designer of a shopping cart could have used a few suggestions.

I know there are some local stores that have carts with kid friendly seats on the back side of the cart so that older children can ride instead of walk. My daughter is still too young for those carts but watching those moms is like watching a school bus navigate the isles with the wide turning radius they need.

There is another local store who has added sanitizing wipes at the door so you can swipe and wipe before your child gets every germ on every hand that has touched the bar of that cart you're using.

Yet another local store has added race cars to the front of their carts, some with video players so that your child can be occupied with the movie of your choice while you shop. Now those videos aren't free but the couple of dollars you spend might save you from making a second trip to the store.

Anyway, we weren't at one of those stores. We were at our regular grocery store with standard carts and my curious toddler was again faced with the boredom of facing me the entire time if she sat in the seat the way it was designed. My question is, why can't those child seats face the other way? How simple would that be? I'm sure someone out there knows the reason but being a mom with a mountain of groceries I have to wonder, how long will some of us be picking up our cases of water or diapers, pushing them against the back side of the cart for our child to sit on, like a bench seat, so they can see the rest of the world at the grocery store?

First of Many

2009-03-04T08:01:00.000-08:00

Here I am faced with the task of my first blog, is a first blog entry like a first kiss…will someone ask me 10 years from now, do you remember your first one? That just made it A LOT easier, no pressure or anything.

I guess I should blog about me first. I am a wife, a mom, and someone who believes that there is at least a little bit of good in anyone. I work full time and I try to find time for myself to enjoy life. Like anyone else, I've had defining moments in my life and I look forward to sharing them with you.

I look forward to getting to know you and whether you're up too early to way too late, stop by and stay awhile.