Friday, June 23, 2006
I got the best news!!
Okay, so the other day I check in on my email and I see I've received a private message on a scrapbook forum I frequent. Low and behold, it was from Paula, the owner of Back Porch Memories an awesome kit club. I had made a comment on the Willow Trader's board about her up-and-coming July kits and from that post she took a look at my gallery at the veggie site. Well her private message about made me fall over!!! She said that she had peeked at my stuff and was looking for another DT member and would I be interested.....WHAT!!!! WOULD I!!!! I'm a little nervous as this is the first time I will be designing for a kit club and I truly hope I have what it takes.....sometimes I make myself more worked up than I should be. I'll give it my best shot---WOO HOO!! I'm totally excited!!! Thanks Paula for giving me a shot!!!
Monday, June 19, 2006
Erica's Blogger Challenge
What was your favorite book as a child? How old were you? What made it your favorite?
This is sad because I don't honestly remember reading a lot as a child. I do remember while in elementary school having library as a class. I always chose the Encylopedia Brown books. I remember reading a few of the Nancy Drew, Hardy Boys, and Little House on the Prairie books. However, for the life of me, none of the main details of these books have stuck with me. I was never much of a reader, unless it was magazines, until recently. It once took me over a year to finish a book that I absolutely loved -- Songs of Ordinary Times. I just didn't make it a priority.
I LOVE to read now! I just finished the book Rules of Prey and man was that a psychotic thriller! It kind of scares me to think there are people out in the world like this! The main character, Lieutenant Lucas Davenport, was very appealing -- a game player that was good at what he does. I would highly recommend it. I might have to track down the other books in this series from the library. However, there's a new book being introduced in our little J4K book club, Eden Close, which I will now search for at the library -- sounds like a good one!
This is sad because I don't honestly remember reading a lot as a child. I do remember while in elementary school having library as a class. I always chose the Encylopedia Brown books. I remember reading a few of the Nancy Drew, Hardy Boys, and Little House on the Prairie books. However, for the life of me, none of the main details of these books have stuck with me. I was never much of a reader, unless it was magazines, until recently. It once took me over a year to finish a book that I absolutely loved -- Songs of Ordinary Times. I just didn't make it a priority.
I LOVE to read now! I just finished the book Rules of Prey and man was that a psychotic thriller! It kind of scares me to think there are people out in the world like this! The main character, Lieutenant Lucas Davenport, was very appealing -- a game player that was good at what he does. I would highly recommend it. I might have to track down the other books in this series from the library. However, there's a new book being introduced in our little J4K book club, Eden Close, which I will now search for at the library -- sounds like a good one!
Sunday, June 18, 2006
Catching Up!
Well, I've fallen behind on keeping up with the blog. That happens when you're chasing kiddies and puppy around. The summer vacation has been uneventful so far. We've just been hanging out in the backyard and swimming in our little pool.
Marisa's dance recital was yesterday. She was so sweet!! I can't believe how well she does in dance. She has kind of said she doesn't want to go back because she would like to start ice skating, but I think I'm going to have her take one class. She is good and that's not being biased. She really gets into it! Here's a picture of her in her costume -- she looks like a teenager!
Travis bleached his hair for the summer. He always does this as a tradition for the past few years. This time his step-dad Howard had the priviledge of doing it. I swear he did a better job than both his mother or myself!!! I told Travis to tell Howard I'm coming over so he can hook me up with some highlights!!
Lil' Cooper is getting bigger and better as far as the housetraining. He still has his accidents, but they are fewer. He's gotten pretty smart with going to the bathroom in one spot behind the garage and so far we've all done pretty good with keeping up on scooping the poop. I cannot stand to have funky brown spotted grass with big hunks of poo! That was the agreement that we would all take part in picking this up. Now, it makes it easier being they are very small, but one day as I remember very well from our last GSP, they will become BIG!!!
Today was Father's Day and ours was pretty low key and laid back. We like it that way. I let Dave sleep in late partly because he was up with Cooper on and off during the nigh...ugh! I made him breakfast and we bought him a present which wasn't much -- shoes shoes and more shoes. He asked for work shoes, so we bought him those. Then I bought him a pair of dress shoes and a pair of gym shoes. He's set for the next decade....lol Here's a quick picture of him and his kids minus Collin who is going through the stage of not wanting to be in front of the camera.
We did go out to dinner yesterday evening to celebrate Marisa's recital and Father's Day all in one. We made the big trip to Olive Garden and believe me when I say big trip because my husband is not one to go out to dinner with the kids. Plus my mom, sister, and niece came along too. Gosh, I love their food even though it's too expensive for freaking noodles!
That's all for now folks! Have a great night!!!
Marisa's dance recital was yesterday. She was so sweet!! I can't believe how well she does in dance. She has kind of said she doesn't want to go back because she would like to start ice skating, but I think I'm going to have her take one class. She is good and that's not being biased. She really gets into it! Here's a picture of her in her costume -- she looks like a teenager!
Travis bleached his hair for the summer. He always does this as a tradition for the past few years. This time his step-dad Howard had the priviledge of doing it. I swear he did a better job than both his mother or myself!!! I told Travis to tell Howard I'm coming over so he can hook me up with some highlights!!
Lil' Cooper is getting bigger and better as far as the housetraining. He still has his accidents, but they are fewer. He's gotten pretty smart with going to the bathroom in one spot behind the garage and so far we've all done pretty good with keeping up on scooping the poop. I cannot stand to have funky brown spotted grass with big hunks of poo! That was the agreement that we would all take part in picking this up. Now, it makes it easier being they are very small, but one day as I remember very well from our last GSP, they will become BIG!!!
Today was Father's Day and ours was pretty low key and laid back. We like it that way. I let Dave sleep in late partly because he was up with Cooper on and off during the nigh...ugh! I made him breakfast and we bought him a present which wasn't much -- shoes shoes and more shoes. He asked for work shoes, so we bought him those. Then I bought him a pair of dress shoes and a pair of gym shoes. He's set for the next decade....lol Here's a quick picture of him and his kids minus Collin who is going through the stage of not wanting to be in front of the camera.
We did go out to dinner yesterday evening to celebrate Marisa's recital and Father's Day all in one. We made the big trip to Olive Garden and believe me when I say big trip because my husband is not one to go out to dinner with the kids. Plus my mom, sister, and niece came along too. Gosh, I love their food even though it's too expensive for freaking noodles!
That's all for now folks! Have a great night!!!
Tuesday, June 06, 2006
Sappy
that's how I would describe my most recent mood. I cry over a drop of a dime. At first I thought it was lack of sleep from the new puppy and it still might be, but I really think it is because come this time of year when school ends it hits me that my baby girl is getting older. Another year has come and gone and she's now moving on to second grade and the next thing you know, she'll be graduating.
For the past week she has told me that she doesn't want school to end. She wants to stay in Miss Hasse's class forever because she loves her. That shows what a positive impact her teacher and school has had on her. I picked her up today and she bawled her eyes out hugging me in the hallway. I had to gasp back my tears and explain to her that just because she would no longer be in Miss Hasse's class didn't mean she would never see her again. That poor girl cried and cried and even passed up swimming in the pool this afternoon and took a nap. Whew -- I must be super PMSing because I can't stop crying thinking about that moment and the past year in general. She has grown up so much learning to read and write, mathematics, science and all the neat projects she has brought home. Gosh, I love that little girl of mine for the sensitive caring soul she is!!! Now to find a tissue again!!
Another mother and myself put together a book for the Miss Hasse. Each child had to complete a sentence that stated why Miss Hasse was special. Of course 7 kids didn't turn theirs in, so Sheri and I made simple layouts of those kids with their names on it. I think the book turned out simplistically nice. Miss Hasse loved it, and thanked me for taking the time. She even said I was sooo creative...thanks Miss Hasse!
For the past week she has told me that she doesn't want school to end. She wants to stay in Miss Hasse's class forever because she loves her. That shows what a positive impact her teacher and school has had on her. I picked her up today and she bawled her eyes out hugging me in the hallway. I had to gasp back my tears and explain to her that just because she would no longer be in Miss Hasse's class didn't mean she would never see her again. That poor girl cried and cried and even passed up swimming in the pool this afternoon and took a nap. Whew -- I must be super PMSing because I can't stop crying thinking about that moment and the past year in general. She has grown up so much learning to read and write, mathematics, science and all the neat projects she has brought home. Gosh, I love that little girl of mine for the sensitive caring soul she is!!! Now to find a tissue again!!
Another mother and myself put together a book for the Miss Hasse. Each child had to complete a sentence that stated why Miss Hasse was special. Of course 7 kids didn't turn theirs in, so Sheri and I made simple layouts of those kids with their names on it. I think the book turned out simplistically nice. Miss Hasse loved it, and thanked me for taking the time. She even said I was sooo creative...thanks Miss Hasse!
Thursday, June 01, 2006
blogger challenge
We're talking about cooking today!
I love to cook especially when it's appreciated. I'm always willing to try new recipes that have ingredients that I like. Sometimes I take the leap and try new things. My favorite things to make are desserts, but I'm also a big fan of Mexican and Italian dishes.
I'm trying to think of what I'm known for cooking. I know my brother used to love when I made homemade Slim Jims with my own recipe for tartar sauce. I make these awesome chicken enchiladas. Oh, I make this meatloaf that is truly delicious. It must be good because my husband couldn't stand meatloaf before and now he loves this one. There's lots of other things I make -- cookies, pies, pasta dishes....all this talk of food is making me hungry!! I'm back to the Weight Watchers way and I am continually hungry!!!! Somebody pass me some carrot sticks!!!
Oh, I'll share a quick recipe I found the other day for anyone who likes strawberry shortcake. This recipe is called "Better Than Strawberry Shortcake"
Mix: one pack of cream cheese (1/3 reduced fat)
one regular sized tub of light cool whip
1/2 cup Splenda
Buy: an angel food cake (or make your favorite recipe) and cut it up into medium sized cubes
Clean: and cut fresh strawberries in half (remove the green leaves from the top).
Layer:Take a deep glass dish and add a base of angel food cake cubes, add half of the cream cheese/cool whip/splenda mixture, and add a layer of strawberries,
...add another round of angel food cake cubes, the last of the cream cheese/cool whip/splenda mixture, and top it off with strawberries.
*And if you are a blueberry fan, add those, too! It gives it a more patriotic look for an independence day celebration.
It's delicious!!!! Enjoy it!
I love to cook especially when it's appreciated. I'm always willing to try new recipes that have ingredients that I like. Sometimes I take the leap and try new things. My favorite things to make are desserts, but I'm also a big fan of Mexican and Italian dishes.
I'm trying to think of what I'm known for cooking. I know my brother used to love when I made homemade Slim Jims with my own recipe for tartar sauce. I make these awesome chicken enchiladas. Oh, I make this meatloaf that is truly delicious. It must be good because my husband couldn't stand meatloaf before and now he loves this one. There's lots of other things I make -- cookies, pies, pasta dishes....all this talk of food is making me hungry!! I'm back to the Weight Watchers way and I am continually hungry!!!! Somebody pass me some carrot sticks!!!
Oh, I'll share a quick recipe I found the other day for anyone who likes strawberry shortcake. This recipe is called "Better Than Strawberry Shortcake"
Mix: one pack of cream cheese (1/3 reduced fat)
one regular sized tub of light cool whip
1/2 cup Splenda
Buy: an angel food cake (or make your favorite recipe) and cut it up into medium sized cubes
Clean: and cut fresh strawberries in half (remove the green leaves from the top).
Layer:Take a deep glass dish and add a base of angel food cake cubes, add half of the cream cheese/cool whip/splenda mixture, and add a layer of strawberries,
...add another round of angel food cake cubes, the last of the cream cheese/cool whip/splenda mixture, and top it off with strawberries.
*And if you are a blueberry fan, add those, too! It gives it a more patriotic look for an independence day celebration.
It's delicious!!!! Enjoy it!
Tuesday, May 30, 2006
We're going
to have a new addition in our family. No, I'm not pregnant....lol We've decided to take the plunge again on Dave's instistence and get another dog. Actually, we will be getting the same type of dog that we had before -- a German Shorthair pointer or a bird dog. I think, or at least I hope, this will be a better experience for all of us especially since the kids are a little older. It was too hard for me to take care of the Rusty when the kids were little. He required lots and lots of attention and I just didn't have it in me. We found him a great home to go to, but Dave has been whining a lot lately about giving his dog up. He now has let the cat out of the bag by saying he didn't really want to give Rusty away, but only did so because I insisted. Uh, okay, but you had a voice in the matter, MISTER, and I didn't see you saying NO.
We've been feeling really guilty lately just thinking about Rusty. He really was a good dog. He just had a lot of goofy things about him like eating socks and plastic bags!!! He loved kids and was a great watch dog. I miss him, too!
Well, this time it's going to be different. I will have the patience and this little guy will be trained at obedience school. I told Dave that is the one condition I am making that he will take him and train him. So on that note, here's the little guy we've picked and if all works out like it should, we will be picking him up on Saturday. He'll be six weeks old and is just so darn cute!! We've decided to name him Cooper.
We've been feeling really guilty lately just thinking about Rusty. He really was a good dog. He just had a lot of goofy things about him like eating socks and plastic bags!!! He loved kids and was a great watch dog. I miss him, too!
Well, this time it's going to be different. I will have the patience and this little guy will be trained at obedience school. I told Dave that is the one condition I am making that he will take him and train him. So on that note, here's the little guy we've picked and if all works out like it should, we will be picking him up on Saturday. He'll be six weeks old and is just so darn cute!! We've decided to name him Cooper.
Blog Challenge
List five to ten people you are thankful for; your relationship to them; and why you are thankful for them.
1. My dad -- even though my father passed away 3 1/2 years ago I am still ever so thankful to have had him as a father. He made life difficult when we were younger, but he taught me so many invaluable lessons in life that I can never forget. He really was sooooo wise and if he had practiced what he'd preached who knows if he'd still be around.
2. My mother -- for being the strong person she always has been. Life has always been rough for my mom, but her faith in God has always remained strong. She is a wonderful grandma to all her grandchildren. I just love my mom even though I may not always show it.
3. My sister Pam -- she is just the most caring person who really deserves better. She has a heart of gold and I'd do anything for her. She is my best friend!
4. My children-- Marisa & Collin -- they drive me crazy at times, but I wouldn't want my life any other way. They put so much joy in my heart. I love seeing them grow and succeed in life.
5. My brother Tony -- he is just the funniest guy who got my dad's sense of humor and knowledge. He, too, is very wise but doesn't always practice what he preaches. I love how he's the best dad to his children -- so loving and patient. He's just an awesome guy!!
1. My dad -- even though my father passed away 3 1/2 years ago I am still ever so thankful to have had him as a father. He made life difficult when we were younger, but he taught me so many invaluable lessons in life that I can never forget. He really was sooooo wise and if he had practiced what he'd preached who knows if he'd still be around.
2. My mother -- for being the strong person she always has been. Life has always been rough for my mom, but her faith in God has always remained strong. She is a wonderful grandma to all her grandchildren. I just love my mom even though I may not always show it.
3. My sister Pam -- she is just the most caring person who really deserves better. She has a heart of gold and I'd do anything for her. She is my best friend!
4. My children-- Marisa & Collin -- they drive me crazy at times, but I wouldn't want my life any other way. They put so much joy in my heart. I love seeing them grow and succeed in life.
5. My brother Tony -- he is just the funniest guy who got my dad's sense of humor and knowledge. He, too, is very wise but doesn't always practice what he preaches. I love how he's the best dad to his children -- so loving and patient. He's just an awesome guy!!
Sunday, May 28, 2006
It's been beautiful!!
The last two days have been the most gorgeous weather and we have been out and about enjoying it. Yesterday we met up with some friends at their camp site. The kids played and we went on the paddle boats. We sat around a camp fire getting all smokey smelling -- love that smell! So much fun, but we were totally exhausted on the ride home.
Today, I took the kids to Metro Beach. I haven't hung out there since I was a child. My mom used to take my brothers, sister, and I ALL the time! Just walking on the beach brought back so much nostolgia. The beach was a little dirtier than I remember, so we played in the squirt zone. Now I'm back home getting ready to BBQ some steaks and eat delicious corn on the cob and greek pasta salad...mmmmm So hungry right now!
I forgot my camera up at the campsite and was so bummed I didn't get any good beach pictures. That's okay though because I bought a season pass so I'm sure we'll be heading back there soon!
Dave put the pool up on Saturday and it finally finished filling today. The kids are dying to get in there and swim. A little cold though, so they might have to wait for a couple more 80 degree days.
I did marathon scrapping on Thursday night because Erica put a guilt trip on me....lol It felt so good to scrap though. I missed scrapping -- I was in a little funk. Now it's gone so I feel like scrapping a lot but of course we've had all this stuff going on. I'm going to sneak in the basement later.
Today, I took the kids to Metro Beach. I haven't hung out there since I was a child. My mom used to take my brothers, sister, and I ALL the time! Just walking on the beach brought back so much nostolgia. The beach was a little dirtier than I remember, so we played in the squirt zone. Now I'm back home getting ready to BBQ some steaks and eat delicious corn on the cob and greek pasta salad...mmmmm So hungry right now!
I forgot my camera up at the campsite and was so bummed I didn't get any good beach pictures. That's okay though because I bought a season pass so I'm sure we'll be heading back there soon!
Dave put the pool up on Saturday and it finally finished filling today. The kids are dying to get in there and swim. A little cold though, so they might have to wait for a couple more 80 degree days.
I did marathon scrapping on Thursday night because Erica put a guilt trip on me....lol It felt so good to scrap though. I missed scrapping -- I was in a little funk. Now it's gone so I feel like scrapping a lot but of course we've had all this stuff going on. I'm going to sneak in the basement later.
Wednesday, May 24, 2006
Erica's blogger challenge
Who is my closest friend? How did we meet? What drew me to that person?
I'd have to say my closest and dearest friend is my sister. We met at birth....LOL No, really, she is the one person I do everything with. We used to have more time together, but since our girls are in school and in all these activities we haven't seen each other like we used to -- kind of bumming me out :^(
But I wanted to share a story of a friend of mine who I met in 3rd grade -- Kim Smith, but I always called her Kimmy. We didn't meet on the best of terms. I remember some kind of fight and me hitting her and then she retaliating with a punch to the face knocking me flat on my keister -- nice huh? I ran and she caught up and ended up hugging me and telling me she was sorry. That's how it started. She had a sister, Diane, who was one year older than us and we all hung out together along with another girl in the neighborhood Dawn. I would spend the night at their house every chance I got -- their family life was so much different than mine -- not better per se just more fun. Her parents were a lot more lax than my dad.
We kept in contact all the way up until September 1994. It started to be a one-way friendship with me doing all the calling. I finally told her the last time I called would be it if she lost my number one more time. I did move a lot, but I always made sure to call her to update her on my new phone number. Well, she lost my number and that was it! But, she felt so bad she ended up tracking me down some how and we reunited in May of 1997. It wasn't the same, but we tried. She got pregnant with her first daughter and I subsquently got pregnant with Marisa. We tried to bond, but life was so much different. She liked to still party a lot, and I had already lived that part of my life. I miss her though. She was always so fun. I just heard from her again a few months ago. Unfortunately she's going through divorce after being married since August 1988. She has two children now and will be a single mom. I still don't agree with her lifestyle choices, but I don't judge. Our friendship was one that I'll never forget and I love getting together with her to reminisce about old times. I'll have to dig up some pictures to post. I'll have to go dig in the archives...LOL
***Edited to add photo -- I'm in the center with Kimmy on the left and her sister Diane on the right. This was taken April of 1985 -- I was 15.
I'd have to say my closest and dearest friend is my sister. We met at birth....LOL No, really, she is the one person I do everything with. We used to have more time together, but since our girls are in school and in all these activities we haven't seen each other like we used to -- kind of bumming me out :^(
But I wanted to share a story of a friend of mine who I met in 3rd grade -- Kim Smith, but I always called her Kimmy. We didn't meet on the best of terms. I remember some kind of fight and me hitting her and then she retaliating with a punch to the face knocking me flat on my keister -- nice huh? I ran and she caught up and ended up hugging me and telling me she was sorry. That's how it started. She had a sister, Diane, who was one year older than us and we all hung out together along with another girl in the neighborhood Dawn. I would spend the night at their house every chance I got -- their family life was so much different than mine -- not better per se just more fun. Her parents were a lot more lax than my dad.
We kept in contact all the way up until September 1994. It started to be a one-way friendship with me doing all the calling. I finally told her the last time I called would be it if she lost my number one more time. I did move a lot, but I always made sure to call her to update her on my new phone number. Well, she lost my number and that was it! But, she felt so bad she ended up tracking me down some how and we reunited in May of 1997. It wasn't the same, but we tried. She got pregnant with her first daughter and I subsquently got pregnant with Marisa. We tried to bond, but life was so much different. She liked to still party a lot, and I had already lived that part of my life. I miss her though. She was always so fun. I just heard from her again a few months ago. Unfortunately she's going through divorce after being married since August 1988. She has two children now and will be a single mom. I still don't agree with her lifestyle choices, but I don't judge. Our friendship was one that I'll never forget and I love getting together with her to reminisce about old times. I'll have to dig up some pictures to post. I'll have to go dig in the archives...LOL
***Edited to add photo -- I'm in the center with Kimmy on the left and her sister Diane on the right. This was taken April of 1985 -- I was 15.
Tuesday, May 23, 2006
Blogger challenge
I'm finally getting around to doing another one of these challenges posted by Erica from J4K.
Looking at life now, try and remember what you wanted out of it 10 years ago:
Ten years ago I was 26 and in a MISERABLE relationship that was nearing the end. I wanted out, but didn't know how I was going to accomplish it. This man had worn me down emotionally and financially. I prayed and prayed every day that the Lord would save me from this and bring a good man into my life--one with possibilities and a good heart. I struggled, but ended up getting my own apartment. The first one ever!!! I loved it!! Low and behold, within months I met my husband and the rest is history in that area. I also was going to school for court reporting and had envisioned a career in that once I finished. Well, it didn't work out like that for now. I did finish school, but I had children and decided to stay home -- for now. I will go to work in that field once Collin goes to school full time.
It's funny how we set goals and plans, but looking back how they didn't quite turn out the way we envision -- life turned out a lot better in my case :^)
Looking at life now, try and remember what you wanted out of it 10 years ago:
Ten years ago I was 26 and in a MISERABLE relationship that was nearing the end. I wanted out, but didn't know how I was going to accomplish it. This man had worn me down emotionally and financially. I prayed and prayed every day that the Lord would save me from this and bring a good man into my life--one with possibilities and a good heart. I struggled, but ended up getting my own apartment. The first one ever!!! I loved it!! Low and behold, within months I met my husband and the rest is history in that area. I also was going to school for court reporting and had envisioned a career in that once I finished. Well, it didn't work out like that for now. I did finish school, but I had children and decided to stay home -- for now. I will go to work in that field once Collin goes to school full time.
It's funny how we set goals and plans, but looking back how they didn't quite turn out the way we envision -- life turned out a lot better in my case :^)
Monday, May 22, 2006
Is it Monday already?
This whole weekend has been one big blur. It started on Friday with a a wet, soggy, and cold field trip to the Detroit Zoo with Marisa's 1st grade class. We definitely tried to make the best of it, but Marisa was in a mood. Let's just say we didn't leave there on the best of terms. I straightened her out by the time we got half way home. Jeez, you love your kids to death and would do anything for them, and then they just have that way of not showing their appreciation. All better now though. She's in that drama mode where if she doesn't get what she wants, she pouts thinking that will change our minds. Uh, NO, it just makes me more mad!!
So then Saturday came with rushing Marisa off to dance, and then a quick trip to Target and Borders to get a birthday present for her friend's party. Fun, fun, fun time at the birthday party. It was at a place called Pump It Up which is all inflatable jumpies and slides. I was one of the only parents that played on all the stuff partly because Collin was there and kept asking me to play with him. You've gotta still have fun even though my body felt it the next day!! After that, I hit two scrapbook stores out in that area. The first one I got my favorite Cherry Arte stuff only spending $5.35!!
I then ventured to the other store that I have never been to because I can never find it. Finally, finally, I finally found it and what a score!!! No wonder everyone raves about that store -The Scrapbook Tree. Heck, it had every patterened paper I had ever wanted with the exception of the new Urban Lily. Left there on cloud nine with only spending $8.96--a nice shopping high for under $20
Sunday was church with Marisa singing in the cherub choir and then the Kinderfest afterwards that Dave and I worked. He did the Hoops and I worked the sucker pull. The kids had a blast. Marisa had her first t-ball game and of course she slid and fell geting mud all over her "white" pants. Why in sam hill do they give kids white pants to wear for sports????? She had fun, but made me feel bad when she said no one was there to cheer for her. I promised her I'll be there from now on to cheer for her :^(
I was so exhausted coming home and even got sun burned on my face and neck standing in cloudy weather. I stayed up to watch Desperate Housewives season finale. It was good! How come Bre always ends up with the psychos??? Will Susan and Mike the Plumber ever get together? I can't believe Carlos was doing the nasty with the maid!!!! Oh, and that witchy woman who showed up having had Tom's child. Lynette handled that very well because we would've been duking it out with the attitude she had!! LOL
Off to conquer the laundry! I promised myself I would get it ALL done!! Wish me luck :^)
So then Saturday came with rushing Marisa off to dance, and then a quick trip to Target and Borders to get a birthday present for her friend's party. Fun, fun, fun time at the birthday party. It was at a place called Pump It Up which is all inflatable jumpies and slides. I was one of the only parents that played on all the stuff partly because Collin was there and kept asking me to play with him. You've gotta still have fun even though my body felt it the next day!! After that, I hit two scrapbook stores out in that area. The first one I got my favorite Cherry Arte stuff only spending $5.35!!
I then ventured to the other store that I have never been to because I can never find it. Finally, finally, I finally found it and what a score!!! No wonder everyone raves about that store -The Scrapbook Tree. Heck, it had every patterened paper I had ever wanted with the exception of the new Urban Lily. Left there on cloud nine with only spending $8.96--a nice shopping high for under $20
Sunday was church with Marisa singing in the cherub choir and then the Kinderfest afterwards that Dave and I worked. He did the Hoops and I worked the sucker pull. The kids had a blast. Marisa had her first t-ball game and of course she slid and fell geting mud all over her "white" pants. Why in sam hill do they give kids white pants to wear for sports????? She had fun, but made me feel bad when she said no one was there to cheer for her. I promised her I'll be there from now on to cheer for her :^(
I was so exhausted coming home and even got sun burned on my face and neck standing in cloudy weather. I stayed up to watch Desperate Housewives season finale. It was good! How come Bre always ends up with the psychos??? Will Susan and Mike the Plumber ever get together? I can't believe Carlos was doing the nasty with the maid!!!! Oh, and that witchy woman who showed up having had Tom's child. Lynette handled that very well because we would've been duking it out with the attitude she had!! LOL
Off to conquer the laundry! I promised myself I would get it ALL done!! Wish me luck :^)
Wednesday, May 17, 2006
Wednesday Blogger
What craft/hobby would you pursue, if you only had the time and / or the money, besides scrapbooking of course!
We already know we're all hopelessly addicted to that hobby!
Hmmmm....I thinking! There's only one that comes to mind that I've always been interested in and that would be sewing. I've always wanted to learn to sew SO I could make costumes for the kids or myself for Halloween, cool clothes, curtains, just as much as I could spend my time doing so. One day, I will take a sewing class and put this Singer machine to use for things other than layouts...LOL
***Another hobby came to mind that has recently became something I'd love to learn more about and that would be photography. I've learned so much from some of the fabulous photographing ladies at Just4Keeps. I would love to buy a new camera, Rebel or Nikon, and learn how to take fabulous photos!
We already know we're all hopelessly addicted to that hobby!
Hmmmm....I thinking! There's only one that comes to mind that I've always been interested in and that would be sewing. I've always wanted to learn to sew SO I could make costumes for the kids or myself for Halloween, cool clothes, curtains, just as much as I could spend my time doing so. One day, I will take a sewing class and put this Singer machine to use for things other than layouts...LOL
***Another hobby came to mind that has recently became something I'd love to learn more about and that would be photography. I've learned so much from some of the fabulous photographing ladies at Just4Keeps. I would love to buy a new camera, Rebel or Nikon, and learn how to take fabulous photos!
Tuesday, May 16, 2006
Challenge
Share 10 random things about you that make you...you
1. I am perpetually late! It comes from proscrastinating all the time. I'm always rushing out the door.
2. I have a HUGE sweet tooth that I'm trying to get under control.
3. I love watching Desperate Housewives, Grey's Anatomy, Charmed(last show ever next Sunday!), and the Sopranos.
4. I am totally addicted to being online. Trying to curb that habit too...LOL
5. I love the smell of Murphy's Oil soap.
6. I love to clean the house -- smells nice and everything in its place. I'm not fanatical about it though.
7. I love my Durango and don't want to go back to a minivan if at all possible.
8. I can't stand to have socks on in the house -- must be barefoot.
9. I enjoy painting and the smell of it.
10. I always go to sleep at night on my left side.
1. I am perpetually late! It comes from proscrastinating all the time. I'm always rushing out the door.
2. I have a HUGE sweet tooth that I'm trying to get under control.
3. I love watching Desperate Housewives, Grey's Anatomy, Charmed(last show ever next Sunday!), and the Sopranos.
4. I am totally addicted to being online. Trying to curb that habit too...LOL
5. I love the smell of Murphy's Oil soap.
6. I love to clean the house -- smells nice and everything in its place. I'm not fanatical about it though.
7. I love my Durango and don't want to go back to a minivan if at all possible.
8. I can't stand to have socks on in the house -- must be barefoot.
9. I enjoy painting and the smell of it.
10. I always go to sleep at night on my left side.
Build-A-Bear
I love that place and could go crazy shopping for all the cute clothes and accessories for these stuff animals. Marisa's Brownie troop had a field trip there. It was so much fun and excitement for these girls. BAB did a great job playing games and entertaining the troop. They each got bear, a brownie outfit for their bear, and a badge for their sash. I picked out a monkey for Collin. Marisa assembled it for him and I gave it the name "George". Really original, huh? Marisa named her bear Olivia and we bought a wig for her and a baby carrier. Cute stuff!
Yesterday
Marisa's class had a little Mother's Day program. It was so sweet. We made a bookmark and Miss Hasse read a book about what mother's can't do. It's a cute book that we already have read a dozen times. We were then presented with a coursage made of paper with our picture drawn in the center of the flower. Each child the got up and read their journal aloud about why their mother was special. Brought a tear to my eye I tell ya! Each child was sooo sincere, but it broke my heart that two of the children's mothers couldn't be there. The one little girl started to cry...just wanted to give her a hug! She recovered quickly though. Here's Marisa's journal and her picture of me:
I asked her what that thing is in the middle of my head and she told me my clip...funny kid! After your child read this out loud to the class he or she then brought you a flower with a card attached made my them.
It was such a special time and I'm so glad I was able to go. Marisa was just glowing at the fact that she had made all these special things for me and kept asking me if I was going to cry from happiness. She wanted me to! I did shed a tear or two. These are the days that make you just gleam with pride that you're a mom!
I asked her what that thing is in the middle of my head and she told me my clip...funny kid! After your child read this out loud to the class he or she then brought you a flower with a card attached made my them.
It was such a special time and I'm so glad I was able to go. Marisa was just glowing at the fact that she had made all these special things for me and kept asking me if I was going to cry from happiness. She wanted me to! I did shed a tear or two. These are the days that make you just gleam with pride that you're a mom!
May is
half over already and I just noticed on Marisa's school newsletter that there is only 15 days left of school **SHOCK**!! Does anyone know how to slow down time because it's going by too quickly. I'm trying to enjoy every moment, but it still seems way too fast.
Mother's Day was wonderful this year!! Best I've had since my very first. My DH was so sweet and gave me lots of cash which I used to buy a new coffee pot, a Carl's rotary cutter, and pay for my J4K class retreat in August. I just can't wait to go and meet everyone I chat with in the forum in person.
My kids made me lots of pretty cards and Marisa drew a picture on her new dry erase board she had to buy for herself...LOL
This is me walking my favorite kind of dog, a Pug. Marisa knows how badly I want one of these, but Dave hasn't given in yet! I like how thin I am in with my orange glowing tan...hee hee. Love this picture!
I got a picture with me and the kids, but boy oh boy do I NOT like it. Cameras surely tell the truth and it's telling me to start an exercise program IMMEDIATELY!!!
My sweet husband took all of us to Home Depot which never happens because he doesn't like shopping with all the craziness the kids throw into the mix. We picked out my countertop for my scrap area and a bunch of shelves. He came home and put it all in for me!! I am so geeked!! When he was done, Travis and Marisa helped me put everything into place and boy does it look so nice and organized. I don't even want to scrap and make a mess. I still need a few more organizational things to help store my stuff neatly. I also need to finish painting the other side of the basement so the couch can be moved out of my area, but other than that I LOVE IT!!!!
Mother's Day was wonderful this year!! Best I've had since my very first. My DH was so sweet and gave me lots of cash which I used to buy a new coffee pot, a Carl's rotary cutter, and pay for my J4K class retreat in August. I just can't wait to go and meet everyone I chat with in the forum in person.
My kids made me lots of pretty cards and Marisa drew a picture on her new dry erase board she had to buy for herself...LOL
This is me walking my favorite kind of dog, a Pug. Marisa knows how badly I want one of these, but Dave hasn't given in yet! I like how thin I am in with my orange glowing tan...hee hee. Love this picture!
I got a picture with me and the kids, but boy oh boy do I NOT like it. Cameras surely tell the truth and it's telling me to start an exercise program IMMEDIATELY!!!
My sweet husband took all of us to Home Depot which never happens because he doesn't like shopping with all the craziness the kids throw into the mix. We picked out my countertop for my scrap area and a bunch of shelves. He came home and put it all in for me!! I am so geeked!! When he was done, Travis and Marisa helped me put everything into place and boy does it look so nice and organized. I don't even want to scrap and make a mess. I still need a few more organizational things to help store my stuff neatly. I also need to finish painting the other side of the basement so the couch can be moved out of my area, but other than that I LOVE IT!!!!
Thursday, May 11, 2006
Thursday Blogger
On your blog, if you can, share about some of your most sad, challenging, difficult moments in your life.
Share if you can.
Share how you overcame....
Share how you have grown, gotten stronger.
Okay, here we go! Over the course of my 36 years on this earth there have been many sad and challenging moments. Life started out rough with 16 year old parents and an abusive alcoholic father. It was always one big roller coaster and I truly believe that's why I always have that "the rug will be pulled out from underneath me any moment" feeling. It sits in the back of my mind in a little room with the door half opened just waiting to come out.
In the past 9 years three moments have arisen that have totally caught me off guard and devastated me. By the grace and mercy of God I have made it through a stronger person. On July 3, 1997 my first niece was born to my brother and SIL. She was the most beautiful tiny blonde hair blue eyed baby. Who would've known that by December 14, 1997 her little soul would've drifted off to heaven leaving us all in disbelief. The doctors could never reveal what was the cause of her slow demise. She fell ill instantly after birth and it was such a struggle for her and her parents over the next 5 months. They decided to take her off her ventilator. I think back on that time being allowed to enter the room after she passed. She layed there on that bed like a little angel and I held and rocked her so longing for some sort of miracle -- for her to start breathing again. Her death jolted my father back in to drinking. I've never seen my father, a grown man - my rock, be crippled to his knees as I did then.
The next occurrence would be the shocking death of my father on October 30, 2001. The man I loved and admired sooo much despite his faults. I could always overlook them, how I don't know. Everyone would always say that I was such a daddy's girl and that they knew I was his favorite. I still get teased by my mother and siblings to this day. My father had fallen ill on September 30th. He was in bad times physically, emotionally and financially. It landed him in the hospital with kidney failure. I thought that was the end then. He recovered and was released from the hospital within a week. I was there every day for him taking him to doctor's appointments, grocery shopping for him, and staying by his side because he wanted company. It was hard for me. He would call me 15-20 times a day, but never once did I not pick up the phone. He kept telling me he thought he was dying. I kept telling him he was crazy. He was different. More kind. More gray hair. More loving. He wanted the grandkids to be there all the time.
This one day he asked me to come over for lunch and I told him I couldn't. I told him I'd come on Tuesday after Marisa's first ballet class. He was so excited she was going to dance. I talked to him Monday night and he sounded very tired. I asked him if he was okay and he just replied with this, "I'm just tired, Tami." Well, little did I know it was going to be the last time I'd ever talk to him. Tuesday came and I never got a call in the morning like I had been getting all the other mornings. I just dismissed it. I came home from dance and noticed on the caller ID he hadn't called. I was so tired that I layed Marisa and I down for a nap and missed our lunch date. I still hadn't heard from him by 6 pm so I called his house. He lived with his ex-wife -- weird I know. A strange man answered the phone when I called. I asked if my dad was there in a confused cocky voice. He said to hold on. Maureen got on the phone and I asked her if my dad was there. These words ring LOUD in my head still to this day. "Tami, he's dead." It was like a joke or something. I fell to my knees and screamed until Dave came running and took the phone. I don't remember much after that except my MIL coming over to watch Marisa and going to my dad's house. My one brother was there. He went in and saw my dad. I couldn't. I still can't even drive down his street. I miss him so much! But with one life taken, another life was given to me. I found out within a week of the funeral I was pregnant with my little Collin.
The last event was the most recent. Once again the same brother and SIL, Bob and Rose, gave birth to another child, their second since the passing of Autumn. They had already had Makayla and she was a beautiful little toddler all healthy and full of life. So they tried again and had McKenna on May 5, 2004. Once again the health of the baby deteriorated fast. I felt so bad for my brother and his wife that they would once again be going through this, but I thought it would be different this time. I didn't think God would allow these two people to endure this pain again. I was wrong, but I do not question God. McKenna passed away on August 1, 2004 in a hospice. She was so loved! I went to visit her many times rocking her and praying God would spare her little life -- give us a miracle! My mom was devastated. She is a devout religious woman and she surely thought with her prayers and fasting that the Lord would spare this grandchild of hers. Well, unfortunately it was meant for little McKenna to be in Heaven with Him. We miss her! Her big sister Makayla misses her! She talks about her sisters in heaven all the time -- sweet thing! My SIL has recovered from the initial pain, but it's taken a bit more from her delicate soul. She is a strong woman and I admire her completely!
Sorry for the book! And now that I've relived all these moments and am in tears it's time to go find a tissue. It's all in the healing process. No matter how many tears these memories bring forth, I wouldn't be the person I am without them.
Share if you can.
Share how you overcame....
Share how you have grown, gotten stronger.
Okay, here we go! Over the course of my 36 years on this earth there have been many sad and challenging moments. Life started out rough with 16 year old parents and an abusive alcoholic father. It was always one big roller coaster and I truly believe that's why I always have that "the rug will be pulled out from underneath me any moment" feeling. It sits in the back of my mind in a little room with the door half opened just waiting to come out.
In the past 9 years three moments have arisen that have totally caught me off guard and devastated me. By the grace and mercy of God I have made it through a stronger person. On July 3, 1997 my first niece was born to my brother and SIL. She was the most beautiful tiny blonde hair blue eyed baby. Who would've known that by December 14, 1997 her little soul would've drifted off to heaven leaving us all in disbelief. The doctors could never reveal what was the cause of her slow demise. She fell ill instantly after birth and it was such a struggle for her and her parents over the next 5 months. They decided to take her off her ventilator. I think back on that time being allowed to enter the room after she passed. She layed there on that bed like a little angel and I held and rocked her so longing for some sort of miracle -- for her to start breathing again. Her death jolted my father back in to drinking. I've never seen my father, a grown man - my rock, be crippled to his knees as I did then.
The next occurrence would be the shocking death of my father on October 30, 2001. The man I loved and admired sooo much despite his faults. I could always overlook them, how I don't know. Everyone would always say that I was such a daddy's girl and that they knew I was his favorite. I still get teased by my mother and siblings to this day. My father had fallen ill on September 30th. He was in bad times physically, emotionally and financially. It landed him in the hospital with kidney failure. I thought that was the end then. He recovered and was released from the hospital within a week. I was there every day for him taking him to doctor's appointments, grocery shopping for him, and staying by his side because he wanted company. It was hard for me. He would call me 15-20 times a day, but never once did I not pick up the phone. He kept telling me he thought he was dying. I kept telling him he was crazy. He was different. More kind. More gray hair. More loving. He wanted the grandkids to be there all the time.
This one day he asked me to come over for lunch and I told him I couldn't. I told him I'd come on Tuesday after Marisa's first ballet class. He was so excited she was going to dance. I talked to him Monday night and he sounded very tired. I asked him if he was okay and he just replied with this, "I'm just tired, Tami." Well, little did I know it was going to be the last time I'd ever talk to him. Tuesday came and I never got a call in the morning like I had been getting all the other mornings. I just dismissed it. I came home from dance and noticed on the caller ID he hadn't called. I was so tired that I layed Marisa and I down for a nap and missed our lunch date. I still hadn't heard from him by 6 pm so I called his house. He lived with his ex-wife -- weird I know. A strange man answered the phone when I called. I asked if my dad was there in a confused cocky voice. He said to hold on. Maureen got on the phone and I asked her if my dad was there. These words ring LOUD in my head still to this day. "Tami, he's dead." It was like a joke or something. I fell to my knees and screamed until Dave came running and took the phone. I don't remember much after that except my MIL coming over to watch Marisa and going to my dad's house. My one brother was there. He went in and saw my dad. I couldn't. I still can't even drive down his street. I miss him so much! But with one life taken, another life was given to me. I found out within a week of the funeral I was pregnant with my little Collin.
The last event was the most recent. Once again the same brother and SIL, Bob and Rose, gave birth to another child, their second since the passing of Autumn. They had already had Makayla and she was a beautiful little toddler all healthy and full of life. So they tried again and had McKenna on May 5, 2004. Once again the health of the baby deteriorated fast. I felt so bad for my brother and his wife that they would once again be going through this, but I thought it would be different this time. I didn't think God would allow these two people to endure this pain again. I was wrong, but I do not question God. McKenna passed away on August 1, 2004 in a hospice. She was so loved! I went to visit her many times rocking her and praying God would spare her little life -- give us a miracle! My mom was devastated. She is a devout religious woman and she surely thought with her prayers and fasting that the Lord would spare this grandchild of hers. Well, unfortunately it was meant for little McKenna to be in Heaven with Him. We miss her! Her big sister Makayla misses her! She talks about her sisters in heaven all the time -- sweet thing! My SIL has recovered from the initial pain, but it's taken a bit more from her delicate soul. She is a strong woman and I admire her completely!
Sorry for the book! And now that I've relived all these moments and am in tears it's time to go find a tissue. It's all in the healing process. No matter how many tears these memories bring forth, I wouldn't be the person I am without them.
Monday, May 08, 2006
So sore!!!
Well, my body is telling me how out of shape it is. I was a little sore earlier from yesterday's one mile walk. Today I decide to be a good mommy and go for a bike ride with the kids -- could be why by buttisimo is hurting now. Then I met Sheri, a new mom friend I found at Marisa's school, and we walked while Marisa and her daughter had tee-ball practice. Man, that girl can walk!! She wasn't kidding when she said she walked fast. She was funny when she told me that. She said, "I walk fast. I'll tell you that up front." Well little did she know I can walk with speed too. I waitressed and house cleaned for years and you moved with speed to get the job done. One thing though, she doesn't need to lose as much weight as moi, and therefore she wasn't panting as hard as I was. I held my own though, but my calves and butt are feeling it. We did a mile and a half in 25 minutes. Time to go soak in the bath with epsom salt....ugh!! I'm bound and determined to get into shape or at least feel better physically. Off to get pruney -- night night!
Monday blogger
Blog about your favorites. (foods)
Fave coffee: any brand as long as it has Coffeemate FF French vanilla cream in it
Fave tea: Iced tea -- preferably sweet tea
Fave jam: Smuckers grape jam
Fave Peanut Butter: Jif creamy
Fave sandwich: Roast beef with provolone wrapped in lavash bread dipped in lite ranch and with a dill pickle
Fave fast food item: Subway turkey sub with all the goodies
Fave appetizer: Spinach artichoke dip
Fave summertime drink: Sweet tea or pina colada
Fave fruit: Watermelon and strawberries
Fave vegetable: hmmmm...corn, does that count? In the green family, broccoli
Fave indulgence: Baskin Robbins banana royale sundae...mmmmm I want one now!
Fave coffee: any brand as long as it has Coffeemate FF French vanilla cream in it
Fave tea: Iced tea -- preferably sweet tea
Fave jam: Smuckers grape jam
Fave Peanut Butter: Jif creamy
Fave sandwich: Roast beef with provolone wrapped in lavash bread dipped in lite ranch and with a dill pickle
Fave fast food item: Subway turkey sub with all the goodies
Fave appetizer: Spinach artichoke dip
Fave summertime drink: Sweet tea or pina colada
Fave fruit: Watermelon and strawberries
Fave vegetable: hmmmm...corn, does that count? In the green family, broccoli
Fave indulgence: Baskin Robbins banana royale sundae...mmmmm I want one now!
Sunday, May 07, 2006
2Peas Sunday blogger
Challenge:
List your pet peeves. In no particular order.
1. Wearing socks around the house. They get dirty and it grosses me out to then put your foot back in your shoe with dirty socks.
2. Rude people especially sales clerks or waitresses/waiters.
3. Talking to the annoying telemarketers telling them that you're not interested and they keep insisting to talk to you like they're going to change your minnd. CLICK
4. Running late which I always do. I have the best of intentions, but I almost always run late.
5. Mail -- the kind that just sits and stacks up on my counter.
6. Forgetting to switch the clothes over to the dryer so then they stink and have to be washed again.
7. Going to the store for the one item you need and the store is out of it!
8. Waking up in the morning and realizing I've run out of cream for my coffee.
9. Unfinished home improvement projects -- yes, I have many of those that irritate me on a daily basis.
10. When my kids back talk.
List your pet peeves. In no particular order.
1. Wearing socks around the house. They get dirty and it grosses me out to then put your foot back in your shoe with dirty socks.
2. Rude people especially sales clerks or waitresses/waiters.
3. Talking to the annoying telemarketers telling them that you're not interested and they keep insisting to talk to you like they're going to change your minnd. CLICK
4. Running late which I always do. I have the best of intentions, but I almost always run late.
5. Mail -- the kind that just sits and stacks up on my counter.
6. Forgetting to switch the clothes over to the dryer so then they stink and have to be washed again.
7. Going to the store for the one item you need and the store is out of it!
8. Waking up in the morning and realizing I've run out of cream for my coffee.
9. Unfinished home improvement projects -- yes, I have many of those that irritate me on a daily basis.
10. When my kids back talk.
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