METAMORPHISIS

Counting Down

2011-08-18T06:43:00.003-04:00

School is starting next week.

My children are not prepared and neither am I!

I loathe the thought of getting up early, rushing around to get somewhere on time, and then arriving to wait in line to let everyone out at their destination. Seems a little crazy to me, the routine we put ourselves through everyday.

Ahh..routine. I know moms who live and die by routine. Bedtime, church, school, zumba. Wow. I just realized how normal most people seem. Im pretty sure a lot of them have dinner at the same time everynight too, like on those hamburger meal commercials.

We do not have any sense of routine- we all have different schedules. I have school 4 days a week, the kids 5, Hubby works 5 days. Football, teenager with job, babysitting, scouts, did I miss anything?
Oh yes- chickens, dogs, 4-H, wii, (my boys try to schedule this in on the actual calendar), garden, dr appointments...the list does go on and on. Our calendar looks like someone threw up a bunch of letters and numbers...we have codes for everything.

I guess I get more done than the average person because I can multitask very well. I learned to do it when I had 4 kids under 8. I did not really have choice, which is why we are so fly-by-the-seat-of-your-pants-ish.

I used to want to be "that mom".

Always with a healthy snack, balanced dinner. Always with a bandaid, kind words, pretty smile. Always with the niceset clothes, very domestic looking, in cute capris and a t shirt that is a little fitted, but not sexy looking ( don't want to over do it on front of the kids) Pure white tennis shoes, and perfect, easy hairstyle.
They do exist you know. They are all around me, at football practice, in the schol parking lot, at zumba, in church. Perfectly mannered kids, clean babies and nice cars scheduled for regular maintenance.

Then I woke up one day and realized it was all a huge facade, full of fake everything. I was only seeing a sliver of their lives, the public part they wanted me to see. One girl was so miserable she was filing for divorce and only had 4 outfits to her name, because she spent all her money on her kids needs...she was living with her parents, and just wasn't talking to anyone about it. She had am image to protect.

REALLY?

Im at a "who cares" stage. I don't care if you stop by and my floor needs swept. I do not care if I see you in public and I look like I do when I work in the barn all day. My kids talk back (shocker, I know) and we never seem to have enough of anything, ever. My boys fight to the death over the wii remote, my daughter is a teen with teen issues and my son doesnt even live here anymore because he is a young adult that knows it all! My mother in law despises me (unknown reasons) , my in laws never come around or call, and my car has no rear suspension (currently)

I just do not care.

:)

It is not what keeps me moving, driving foward, caring about all of this crazyness. What keeps me moving is knowing that at some point in this life or the next, I will be rewarded in heaven with Christ for all of the crazyness endured here.

See- who cares is ok. I got bigger fish to fry. :)

Thursday Thought

2011-07-27T08:06:00.000-04:00

My thought for today is...

Yard Sales are NOT for wimps.

I am not a great yard sale hostess...I really do not care if you buy my trinket or clothing. I just want the stuff to dissappear. Goodwill seems like such a better idea to me...tax deduction and all.

Its the entire process...staying home all day...getting it all set out, pricing it all, putting it all away...

All in the name of debt reduction.

Debt reduction comes in phases for us. I think if you have extra money, you pay extra on something. If you do not have any extra, then get your monthly bills covered and work on it next month. Sometimes paying something off does not mean you can use that money for paying extra on something else. Sometimes things get paid off because you wrecked your car, or got your income tax check back. These are not things to depend on.

Living debt free allows people to have more options. It allows you to be more charitable. It allows more people to spend more time with their family, and it allows more people to take care of others when the time comes.

I want to be debt free so bad, I cannot stand myself sometimes. I can feel it, we are so close to having our cars paid off, and I cannot wait! We are for sure having a party on that day- they pay off in the same month. :)

So, here I sit, with my youngest boys, my niece and my nephew...yard selling out little and gently used stuff to whomever wants it.

One mans trash is another mans treasure. So someone come and buy this treasure already...:)

Another Day

2011-07-25T12:49:00.014-04:00

Today is Monday- my personal longest day of the week...

It is hard for some people to get back in the swing of things after a weekend. My problem right now is everyone else gets to go back to work- and here I sit. I am bored out of my mind, overwhelmed with the lack of busyness.

Don't get me wrong- I have plenty to do- there is gardening, weeding, cleaning and laundry. I could read, write, study and take pictures of my favorite things. I could go for a walk, go to the barn and ride or just go get a Hershey Bar.

Some people do not understand how hard it is to be running a hundred miles a minute, with family, work, school and church- then having your life some to a very loud, screeching halt. Let me set it up for you like this-

For the last two years I have worked over 10 different jobs, some due to school requirements, some due to just needing a paycheck. I have been in school full time, ran a household full time and maintained my sanity most of the time. There have been a lot of weeks when I have worked/schooled 120 hours. It has been exausting to say the least. My family has changed, my children as individuals have changed, and my husband has handled a lot of it with very little help from me. Just letting me chase my dream of being educated , responsible and contributing...

Now I am unemployed, sitting here everday practically begging God to give me some meaningful task, something to hold onto. I get up in the morning, I do laundry, dishes, watch tv, feed animals, take care of kids. And freak out about not being able to sit still for two seconds to enjoy any of it.

I do not have enough $$, so I have gotten good at canceling the extras, downscaling the things we still have, and making due . We never have spent a lot of money, but we live comfortably. We have internet, sattellite and cell phones- for now. We have cars that require little care, and I can still buy groceries. HOWEVER- I have scaled our tv channels back to the lowest package, cut our cells to the cheapest package, and we only have that internet cause we are in a contract.

I realized this morning, that none of this is within my control. Something an old friend said to me rings true-
you just have to let God take care of it all. Money, time, school. what decisions you have to make. God has to be the pilot in your life.

So I am in big trouble, because its that letting go that scares me to death!How do I know what decisions God wants me to make? Do I stay in college, acquire that student loan, and put my house in financial jeopardy by going back and not working? My instinct is not very trustworthy these days, because it tells me different things each time I mull it over. So how do you know the difference between overcoming an obstacle, to obey Gods will, and flat out disobeying God by making a decision?
GRRRR....
Thats what I think.

Tomorrow is Tuesday, and I will wake up and do it all over again.

Just...let...It...Go....sigh

2011-07-22T13:11:00.005-04:00

You should never ask of someone else what you are not willing to do yourself.

Can I get this tattooed on my arm so I have to read it everyday, please?

I am really really good at telling my friends to let things go. You have to be careful which battles you pick, you could start a major war and not be able to stop it. Well, now I have gone and done it, because of my lack of discipline, I have started that war- inside myself.

I am normally known in different circles as a confident, self assured woman, who loves her husband fiercely and would do most anything to help someone out. I am in college full time, I always also hold a full time job, and I am a full time mother and wife. I have my moments when I feel like Wonder Woman, and I have my moments when I feel stretched so thin I just cry all day.

Lately I have been horrible at letting things go. I allow my feelings to be hurt at every turn, over things that mostly do not matter to anyone else. But they matter to me. Doesn't that validate my feeling in any way?

For example,

I have been a member of the same church family for over 30 years. I got married there, have raised my children there. I worked harder than anyone understands to get my associates degree, and it took me 3 years. When I finally graduated, my husband and children wanted to throw me a party to celebrate my accomplishment- they have been here for the entire ride and understand everything I have been through to get here. Not one person from my church showed, or even sent a card. No phone calls, no encouragement, no nothing. My grandmother didn't come. Most of my friends did not come. Hardly any of my family was there. (honestly it seemed as though it was a huge imposition on those who were there) Was it because it was just my associates? Or something more? The longer I thought about it, the more crushed I became. Why am I not important ?

I beat myself up over this for weeks.(still doing it)

Then I got laid off right after graduation.
So I have time to think about all the little things I should just be letting go.

I have all of this time to worry and wonder. I am sure it is not healthy, but honestly it has been eye opening, having time to think about some stuff, when before I'd have forgotten all about it because I just didn't have the time.
Now I sit for hours and wonder why my friend cancelled our plans- again.
And why I feel so disconnected at church.
And why members of my family do not understand that when they call, all I want is for them to ask me how we are, not to hear how bad someone else has it, that really doesn't have it so bad at all.
I worry about my kids not being super social, about their lives being ruined because I cannot afford everything for them that is extra right now.
I worry about my husband and all of the pressure he feels, and that I put on him.
Some days I think I could pray all day, but I talk myself out of it because it seems like my words aren't going any further than my bedroom walls.

It sounds like I'm crazy, and maybe I am (a little). But mostly I feel like people do not know me anymore, don't respect me at all. I feel like I am easy to take advantage of, because I do things for people when they ask. I give more of myself away than I keep for me, and I do not get a lot in return.

I do not want to lose myself during this time of craziness. What am I supposed to do about all of these thoughts that I keep obsessing over?

I guess I have to follow my own advice and just let it go.

Doing What It Takes

2011-07-20T14:50:00.003-04:00

Doing what it takes.

Do the work.

Make the sacrifice.

These are the three things I keep playing over and over in my mind.

The first one comes from a page in my journal, when I was feeling less than worthy and having a really hard time as a mother, a wife, a parent and a friend.

The second one I read in a devotion I get each day in my inbox from Proverbs 31.

The last one I picked up reading the Bible one evening, and it seemed every single thing I turned to was about sacrifice, from the mother of Moses to Mary mother of Jesus. Each of the stories were about incredible sacrifice for loved ones, and I was amazed at where my reading took me.

Let me first say, I have not arrived where I am without great sacrifice from a lot of people. Going to school has not been easy on my children, and I know at least one of them resents me for it, and may never forgive me. My husband has taken on the role of single dad many weeks during the year, and my friends have had to deal with me being invisible. Seems the only person that has not made any sacrifices , has been me. Until now.

I work in a restaurant/bar in a small town and although I am grateful for having some kind of income, I am not happy about working there. I worry my employment will reflect on myself as a person, and I do not want people to know me from "the bar". The job isn't bad, its the atmosphere and all of the humble pie I 've had to eat over the last 3 weeks working there. The pay is not great. but boy am I humble....and aggravated.

I am registered at a new school to continue for my bachelors degree. therefore, no one wants to hire me becaue my "availability" is "bad" . GRRR.

So I return to the thought I had before.

Doing what it takes.

Do the work.

Make the sacrifice.

We have to pay the bills, stay afloat. How do I do it without the guilt of forcing yet another sacrifice on my family?

Somehow, with prayer, grace and a lot of hard work.

Will keep you posted. :)

A Little Thought About Friendship

2011-07-17T18:32:00.003-04:00

Friendship is such an important thing for some people. The people you choose to be friends with become part of your life in some of the most intimate ways. You share secrets, experiences, sometimes vacations. You also share grief, sadness, heartache and loss. There are holidays, birthdays, impromptu gatherings, and on occassion just a bottle of wine.

Another part of friendship is disappointment. Unfortunatly, not any relationship is perfect, and not every person understands how important little things in friendship mean to others. Like making plans and looking forward to them, only having them to change unexpectantly, leaving one person disappointed. This happens a lot when one friend has younger children. Don't get me wrong, I love the kids of all my friends, and most of them are younger. My children are teenagers, and I sometimes need more grown up time. This is hard to do when there are toddlers and elementary aged kids around.

Another aspect of friendship that is hard is the difference in faith two friends may or may not have. I feel like I have different relationships with my Christian girlfriends than with my non christian ones. I am not a different person, but I feel like I let my guard down a bit more with the ones who are Christian. They have a better understanding of my trials and triumphs, and the faith it takes to deal with all of those things. I also feel like I am not a great person to be ministering to the non christian ones either, because they can be judgmental at times, knowing my past and mistakes I have made.

When it is all said and done, I guess I am grateful that my best friend is my husband. He is the source for my laughter, happiness and aggravation- what more could a girl want? He also is a very good man, knows all of my secrets- and loves me unconditionally. And he has never broken my confidence, plans with me or brought any extra kids (other than my own).

7-17-2011

2011-07-17T18:25:00.002-04:00

Today is Sunday, and it has been a long time since I posted a blog. I feel like writing all the time, however, I am not normally in a place where I can just stop and get it on paper...

Today I have been hammering out a plan to blog more, read more,and spend more time meditating. I am not sure how I will get it all worked out, but I must, for my own sanity.

So much has happened this past year, and I am looking forward to re-designing my blog to suit me a little better...

Until I see you again, which will be soon!

Christmas Gifts

2010-12-11T20:02:00.002-05:00

I thought You would all enjoy this food for thought....check it out here

Finally Friday

2010-12-10T09:42:00.002-05:00

Regardless of what I have- or have not- gotten finished this week, Friday is always welcome in this house. Who can resist the temptation of dreaming about sleeping in on Saturday? I know I will not be sleeping in this week, but I will be getting things done, and I cannot use the excuse that I have to work in the office- the office is closed.
My plans include writing an English Paper, going to the library, picking up awards for a Court of Honor at Scouts on Monday, and putting the freshly painted bathroom back together. I'd also like to get busy on some neglected sewing projects and attend my nieces birthday..she is 5.
While I am planning all of these things, I make sure to stop and pray for a few people I know are in need of comfort, and to read Proverbs 31. I am making it a personal goal to read it every day until I feel I can stop- which will be never!
I really have found something that I can turn to when I feel lost- and I never realized how easy this could be. I know life throws me curve balls- I get them all the time- its how I deal with them that is the key!
So, I leave you to think on this- if you have a plan this weekend, does it include reading scripture and spending time in prayer? Should it?

PROVERBS 31 WOMAN

2010-12-09T10:00:00.002-05:00

I was reading Proverbs 31 yesterday while waiting for my boys to come out of school, and I was stunned. Every question I had about who I am, where I am supposed to be and what I am supposed to be doing was answered in a few passages of scripture that I had read over and over again. I have always read the devotions by the team at the Proverbs 31 website, which you can see here
These ladies have really given me inspiration and hope when I have needed it and I appreciate them, even though they have no clue who I am.

I will be speaking more on this topic, as I learn who I am and apply there verses to my life- for now - I want you to go read this passage of scripture and see where it applies to you. Id love to hear those stories also...feel free to comment me on them!
Have a great day!

IS THIS YEAR OVER YET?!

2010-12-08T12:06:00.002-05:00

For a lot of people, the end of the year means looking forward to a fresh start. I know for me, my fresh start began months ago, which is why none of you hear from me anymore.

I really enjoy blogging, writing in general has been a good way for me to express myself, especially when some of the people in my life don't "get" me.

I know for me, when times are tough either financially or otherwise, sometimes I need a place to hide, all alone, with only my thoughts and sometimes my tears. I understand the meaning of multi-tasking all to well, and I understand the frustration of being a mom, wife and Christian woman all in the same.

When you are a Christian, everyone expects one of two things from you- you either must show perfection, or they are waiting for you to screw something up, so it can be pointed out publicly. Story of my life. I strive to keep my big mouth shut when possible, and to keep my all to familiar off-the-top-of-my-head comments to myself. Every thought when dealing with others needs to be prayerfully considered. ( and I mean of the before shooting off the mouth type of prayer) Easier said than done, I am well aware.
I want to share with you that if any of this sounds familiar, you are not alone- not at all! It is not easy being a Christian in this world, but I think being a woman only compounds the problem. Lets share a brief history- I am a full time mom of 4, wife of 18 years, full time student and have a full time job. ( I know 168 hrs in a week) I do sleep, and I do manage to balance it all- but only by the grace of God and only by allowing Christ to carry me when I cannot carry myself.
I am sure my little blog won't get any awards, but if it touches one heart, I will be super- happy with it. It is my chance to share a little, and I want to be real, not hyped up with ads and offers.
I hope you will comment and share each time I post- it important to know someone hears you, and I am not alone in that department- plus I love hearing from people all over the world that can sympathize with my longing for a simpler, more peaceful moment.

INLAWS- enough said Im sure...

2010-09-01T12:05:00.002-04:00

Cant live with em...
Cant dump em in the nearest forest....

A girl can dream, yes?

:)

Have a great day everyone.

EGGS

2010-08-04T12:16:00.000-04:00

I have so many eggs right now! These crazy hens are laying a dozen a day! I need to make a sign to sell them...and I need some more egg recipes- anybody got a good one? please leave it for me!
Thanks!

no more accounting...:)

2010-07-22T10:22:00.002-04:00

So, today is a great day- because for now, I am finished with accounting!

YEAH

of all the classes I have taken I think I despise this one the most.
made my brain hurt!
Caused much stress....
But its over now.
So I can relax.
Have a great weekend!

Wednesday isnt for wimps!

2010-07-14T10:42:00.002-04:00

Do you ever feel like Wednesday is just a teaser for the weekend? not quite there yet- but so close you can feel it?
Gives me goosebumps!

Wednesday is the day I use to "get ready" for the weekend..so to speak...

Start the mowing...
Work in the garden...
weed weed weed...
homework...
laundry...
this list could go on forever....

I have come to the conclusion that around here- Tuesday night better provide a good night of sleep- cause Wednesday will prove you're gonna need it!

Have a great day everyone!

feels good to write

2010-07-12T12:12:00.002-04:00

It has been far too long my friends....
My biggest and busiest ( so far) summer plans have been going to school full time, working my job full time and a full time internship....
Whew am I beat!
And Im thankful I am not an accounting major.
Because I think its the worst class Ive ever taken!

Im finding when I try to write on one of my blogs each week- I havent got a lot to say- however- with a lot of prayer and a lot of encouragement from prayerful people- I have managed to squeeze in time to do this again!
Im excited and happy to have returned...and I appreciate all you have to say...Please feel free to comment and encourage!

TUESDAY IS MONDAY- RIGHT?

2010-05-04T09:07:00.003-04:00

Do you ever get out of bed and wonder- is today Monday or what?
I have no idea what day it is half the time.
My current schedule is as follows-

mon- 730- leave home
drop kids at perspective schools
got to psychology
1 hour break
got to landscape construction
1 hour break
go to herbaceous plant materials
go home
go to scouts
arrive home exausted at 830
go to bed

tues-
take kiddos to school
come home work
pick kiddos up
homework
green house
bedtime

weds- see mon

thurs
see tues

friday- thank God it friday
take kiddos to school
work
pick kiddos up
homework
greenhouse
bed

sat-
womens group
free for all- mostly homework
bed

sun
church
homework
bed
:)
no wonder im tired...:)

Our family is growing...we have added baby chickens and kittens this spring.
Going to be a busy summer!

I got some stuff for later in the week, and a fabulous post on the other blog... here

Its Been A While...

2010-04-15T09:32:00.002-04:00

I havent been here for a while. And I do miss you all terribly. I havent had a paycheck in over 7 weeks. And I think Im losing my mind. There has been no time to blog, because it doesnt pay me. There has been no time for much of anything really....just trying to work in a job that isnt panning out anymore. whew. Cant catch my breath. as I get further and further behind I started getting more and more emails about people on BLOG FROG whoa re my new followers/friends....Im sorry I havent been posting. I will try to get back to normal and find something to say....Its been an ultra long spring so far, and any prayer you can offer on my behalf would be much appreciated. Thanks!

VGNO

2010-03-05T14:16:00.002-05:00

VGNO is much needed-

I am UNDER the weather sneezing and sniffling, and of course there are a
ZILLION
things on my to do list.

But at the top, there is
THIS

If you want tickets- and some of you told me you do- then please let me know- I have a few sets of 6 and a few individuals....

there is a link for the paypal payment option, and that is easiest.
Also put your info on a comment so I can email you and get your phone number for the ticket stub!

Thanks to you all for helping, and Im sorry I dont feel well today.
Id love to stay and catch up, but I have to catch myself first....

LOVE YOU!

VGNO

2010-02-26T10:16:00.004-05:00

When your life gets to be too much, you can always turn to a little country music- at least I can.
I find myself as I am approaching my 36th birthday tomorrow, running to my husband and my God more and more.

Not only with age, but with every second that turns.

I have watched my friend lose her husband in the past year. Ive watched her children suffer and I have seen their lonilness.

I have watched the tragedy in Haiti affect my close friends who are missionaries there, and I have seen people who have nothing give everything.

I have watched the faith of my very own family members waiver- and I have seen their brokenness when they do not even recognize it themselves.

Im thinking I need someone to run to.....:)

Thank You to my AWESOME hubby. He is a dedicated husband and father. And it doesnt hurt that he is always gonna be a year older than I am. :)

Love you John.

Hope you all have an excellent weekend, and Id like to hear who you run to......

Make sure to hop on over to ANNS to check out everyone else and their running!

check out our new family adventures on our new blog

HERE

VGNO

2010-02-19T09:29:00.004-05:00

HAPPY VGNO EVERYONE!
make sure you go to Anns blog for hopping fun!
Its always a great time on Friday Night.

I am really hoping that today is the beginning of a fabulous ride for many of you!

Last week I shared with you that I was starting a womens group- we are calling it
The
Inner Circle.

I hope it becomes important enough to someone to make a difference in their life. I am also hoping to blog about it some too, yet keep to the confidentiality that is expected with an inner circle of friends and mentors.

I SOOOO need a GNO...Im not sure when I will ever get another one. School is TOUGH and my schedule -like many of you- is HecTiC....:)

I am really excited about this weeks VGNO because I am trying to get the word out about a few things that are important to me...

First, take a look at this BEAUTIFUL CREATION..

It has been created by my friend Rita Riedel....and we are
RAFFLING IT OFF!
For tickets..they are $1 for one or $5 for 6
please leave me a comment and I will get you tickets.
The goal is to raise $3000
if there is a big enough response we will set up a paypal account for this.

Tickets are available NOW, and we are going to use the money to rebuild
Vals Orphange...

in Haiti,
where my friends Doug and Amy minister.

(Rita is Amy's mom, also a missionary there with her hubby Jeff)

Rita is the cheesy one on the left, and Jeff is the cheesy one on the right...:)

Quietly behind the scenes, missionary groups all across our country are preparing to go back to Haiti to begin rebuilding the buildings and lives of both Haitian and missionary people. There are many opportunities to help, including the Red Cross, and missionary groups . I am choosing to support a local missionary group, whose work has far exceeded what anyone ever expected in this small island nation. In Haiti there were already precarious living conditions, sparse food and drinking water pre- earthquake. The devastation left behind after the earthquake has broken the hearts and bodies of many, but somehow has strengthened the resolve of them all.
Our hope is to have enough money for one project at a time- this time it is for Vals Orphanage, to rebuild and provide a safe place for the orphans to live.Jeff and Rita have been committed to the people of Gressier for quite sometime, working in Christianville and meeting more needs than you and I could possibly imagine. They are one part of a very big puzzle, and I am honored to have them as the focus of my post today. There will be more to come from my heart on this issue, right now I just want to help get to the $3000.
Please feel free to re post this, or link to it in your posts...

AVON challenges

2010-02-17T11:36:00.003-05:00

For those of you who do not know, I am an AVON Representative.
I love AVON.
I have so much stuff it seemed natural for me to sell a little.
Only now Im hooked and I want to sell A LOT.
Here is an offer on my website...

and there is an OUTLET store too...

We have amazing products....at amazing prices.
The new skincare is AWESOME...and there are choices, which I love.
If you would be interested in
buying Avon
becoming a rep
or just browsing the catalog...
go to my site
and make sure you "sign up"
so I know you are there.
It means a lot to me.
To be part of a company so many women have grown to love.
thanks!

VGNO

2010-02-12T13:36:00.003-05:00

for this edition of VGNO,
I am taking a break from college mid-terms and my hectic life as a mom and wife.
But just for a minute. :)

Most of my week has been spent looking at these....

So that one day I can have the ability to help people with one of these...

This is a basic hydroponics unit. I share this with you, because it is the next generation of feeding many people with limited resources and time.
I think there is an opportunity here to share this technology with people who otherwise have no real resources to take care of themselves.
You grow plants in it. Plants that produce food. Here is the real kicker- You use NO SOIL.
Just water and nutrient.
thats all
amazing, isnt it?
Its my focus of study for my degree in agriculture, and I AM STOKED at the possibilities...

Now, although I am strung out a bit from all of the studying I have done this week, I did want to stop into ANNS and say hello for VGNO..
Cause we all need a little break now and then.

After reading her posts the last couple days, I cannot help but say FINALLY. Someone who really understands my plight with middle school life.
We have HUGE issues with our ART class as well. My kids go in there and they turn into beligerant idiots.
Not sure why this happens, but they get a lot of detentions in that class, and to say the least, Im very unhappy with it.

What is it that sets them off so? Is it that they HAVE to be creative? Or follow directions? Or is it something else? My kids are both creative and good at following directions.
So what gives?
Personality clash? Im making a huge assumption here. Im not a fan of the body language or the verbal language of this particular teacher. And sometimes, I feel uncomfortable around her, even without talking to her. So what do I do? Art is required in our middle school building. And it should be.

I just wonder what it is about this middle school class and the issues faced there.

PS Ann is right about one thing for sure- I dont want to walk in the halls either. A lot of those kids are rude, disrespectful and no one seems to care. Because once that bell rings..teachers run and hide.

Thats all I got for tonight- time to face the traffic war at - you guessed it- the middle school and get the kiddos...

You can look for that post today at my family blog...

workinprogressfarm.blogspot.com

link and button coming soon....:)

BTW...I was in between, if a boy wanted to dance, great, if not, then I danced alone.....:)

GIVEAWAY!!!

2010-02-07T14:35:00.001-05:00

HOP ON OVER TO JAMS BLOG FOR AN AWESOME GIVEAWAY!

THIS NAILPOLISH IS awesome!

check out our new blog too...:)

2010-02-05T12:08:00.005-05:00

Wow.
talk about a throw back
hehe
my hubby and I dont look like this now.
maybe Im thankful?!

:)

Today I am ready for VGNO...hosted by fabulous ANN!

I have started a new blog for my family to participate in..then I totally have posted all by myself for the first week..:)
I have been focusing on the grandparents of my life.
And I think I told a funny story on one of these two blogs...

I am watching the weather and it looks like we are getting 8-10 inches of the "white death"
:)

I LOVE THE SNOW.

Because it gives me a reason to laugh at all those people who-

a- cant find their shovel from last time it snowed
b- are afraid of running out of milk or bread for a day
c-cancel ALL their plans "in case"
d- panic and forget WE LIVE IN OHIO...

*insert hysterical laughter*

I almost got asked to leave the grocery store because I was laughing so hard at the panic stricken people. REALLY. i was kinda rude, but I just couldnt help myself.

I actually heard someone say-
"if there is no bread here, what will we do?"

hahahaha

when I got to looking around,, I realized all the people who live IN town were at the store, and those of us who actually have to drive there were only there for a candy bar or diet coke..:)

As of this post, ANN hasnt posted VGNO yet, but I have a ton of work to do, and Im thinking I will prolly lose internet- thanks to my GREAT sattelite provider (who shall remain nameless)

Hope you all keep up with my two blogs...there will be more funny, more heartache and more blessings this year than ever before.

Im dedicated to writing here, and Im dedicated to making someone laugh , smile, cry or pray.
Just depends on the day I guess....

LOVE YOU GUYS!

ps...my pal ALI has a new photo journal too...AWESOME..go check her out!

GOOD MORNING!

2010-02-04T08:36:00.003-05:00

This morning s going to have to be better than yesterday- because I dont have a killer headache, so that is a step in the right direction, right? :)

I think so

Today is Thursday, and I have a funny story to tell you.

Some of you know, I am a college student among the other million or so things Ive got going on.

Last night, while in my lab for Plant Biology- I get a text.

The powers is out at my house, for no good reason.

So, Im beating myself up= did I pay the bill?
Of course I did- even checked the checkbook to be sure :)

Later, I got another text from my daughter saying it was back on.
ok, so no big deal...

WELL...

Around here we play cruel little pranks on each other, like turning off all the lights upstairs, then turning Morgans bedroom light off, and running..so she is scared. ( that girl watches too many scary movies, so its her fault she makes scaring her so easy for us)

And ( my personal favorite) sneaking your hand just inside the bathroom door and killing the lights- while John is in the shower- this is a little war he and Morgan have waged on each other for months now. While the rest of us just stand by and laugh.

Last night, as reported by my boys- who were in hysterics laughing-
John was in the shower
Morgan doing homework on her bed.

POWER GOES OUT

They both start yelling at one another to "turn the light back on"

While my boys sat on the couch and cracked up.

Eventually they figured it out.
But not before my boys had candles lit, and went looking for them both.

HEHE

VERY FUNNY.

My Choice

2010-02-03T08:30:00.002-05:00

For those of you who follow my blog regularly ( when I keep up with it) You will not be surprised to hear what I have to say today. :)

For those of you who are my friends and truly understand that friendship is about more than doing stuff and hanging on the phone, you will understand also.

For those of you without a clue- ( and you dont even know who you are) you will be offended that I am making different choices now, and I am sorry you do not understand.

This is hubby John. He is a Wonderful , amazingly understanding husband. He lets me have the remote, he keeps the kids in check so I can study, he puts up with all of my Horticultural talk and all of my extra stuff for school strewn about. He takes amazing care of me, and our kids. He has stepped up when I am not here- which is a lot of the time , being in school and all. He doesnt get jealous of other men in my life- has no reason to, and quite frankly has faith in me that I dont have in myself sometimes. Even when we "argue", he is still loving me. I love him. and I kinda think hes cute...:)This is me, trying not to laugh at some absurd, but serious , thing hubby has said to me. (btw- I lost those ultra cool sunglasses when I went skiing- the first time I wore them...GRRRR...)

I am utterly speechless at what I have been blessed with. I have some pretty amazing people in my life. And sometimes I have to take a step back and thank them, and reassure them. Im not "reachable" right now" Its not all together a bad thing either. Im swamped. End of story. I had to re -arrange my life schedule so I have time for the most important things.
Im not answering my cellular device. :)
(one of my fav words)
Im not Facebooking...
Im not emailing, returning personal calls or answering the door.
I dont want this to be offensive.
Im not sick, depressed, lonely or hurt. Im just taking a vacation from the world as I know it , in preparation for the my new shiny world that is coming as soon as the first blossom of spring hits!

Im trying to stay on the deans list at school
Im trying to be a better mother and wife.
Im working on the spiritual side of me too.
There are 168 hours in a week.
And Im using everyone of them.
Im even going to bed at 9:30.
AHH
thats cutting into my serious TV time, BUT well worth it.
And its for the betterment of me.

I knew the people who cared enough to try to check in on me would understand.
And the ones who werent that concerned, well, they dont.
And thats ok by me.

to simplify your world is the first step in simplifying your life. :)

VGNO

2010-01-29T10:57:00.006-05:00

I have NEVER been more thankful in my life for FRIDAY!!!!

And I have a Prayer for all of you-that I wrote from my heart.

Dear Lord- thank you for all you have done in my life and life of all of these blogger friends. Please accept my sincere thanks for everything you have given me, no matter how small. I know I am blessed to be taken care of by you. Please stand by the side of those who serve you in the toughest of conditions, and when they return home, please hold them up for their own recovery. Living to serve and love you is what keeps them going. Thank you so much for the cold and the snow, and the sunshine the peeks through. Thanks you for letting me make my own mistakes and forgiving me when I make them. And thank you for the little things I take for granted- electricity, ice cream, my shoes. I pray your hand will be on all who request it, and some who need to feel you that dont even know it yet. In your Sons name- AMEN

For me this weekends VGNO will be spent painting Gracies room...she has some pretty big ideas- and I promise before and after shots next week...its gonna be a girls night in- and the boys will be freezing their patooties off at boy scout camp= YES Camping in tents... its 12 degrees......YE-OWCH!

Had a Great visit with Doug and Amy my friends whos mission has taken them to Haiti...I met their son Dor for the very first time...AHHHH he is sooo sweet! And of course smart. And their baby Grayson, who is just hungry. :) They spent the evening here with us and it was nice to see them. I will be praying for them continually as they struggle through the reality of the last two weeks...for more info please visit their blog.

There are some graphic photos on one of the pages, so please do not be shocked to see them. But there is also good info on their too.

Have a great VGNO everyone- I will try to hop in tonight!

BTW- my name is Bubbles-Featherbottom...hehe

see the game at anns...:)

VGNO

2010-01-22T13:41:00.004-05:00

I feel like this has been a SUPER FAST week!

So lets hop cruise at jet speed over to Anns, to S_L_O_W D_O_W_N a bit, shall we?

The question of the night is "Which would you rather?"
I actually own a card game called "would you rather..."

So my question is-
"would you rather your husband to be on your social networking site, or never have a clue?"

Ive got nothing to hide- from anyone. My private thoughts are mostly kept private- (that is after all the point). However this week, my hubby has had a glance into part of my life he hasn't seen before- Facebook and blogging.

Im pretty sure he had no idea how warped my humor has become, or how much I wear my heart on my sleeve.

Its been an adventure, to say the least.

I also ACED a one hour presentation and written paper for my Plant Propagation class this week...WOOT WOOT GO ME..:)
(i secretly love college, im such a nerd)

I also got ALL our pertinent tax information in today.

I might need a drink. :) diet coke, here I come!

So tonight while you are all hopping, I will be taxing...:)

PS
my friends from Haiti have an update on their blog. It will warm your heart and wrench it all at the same time.

It is AMAZING what our God can do when we choose to let Him!

God Bless and have a great VGNO everyone!

VGNO

2010-01-15T13:22:00.001-05:00

Wow this is a much needed VGNO!

Im not up to playing the game, but hop on over to Anns and play away!

As usual VGNO is full of blog hopping fun, and hopefully tonight I will get to join you!

Getting back into the swing of things, with a heavy heart and blessed spirit...

Please go checkout my post for today..

http://angelinadawn.blogspot.com/2010/01/extreme-prayer-requests.html

I will be back to hop and visit...

SO GLAD TO SEE YOU ALL!!!!!!!

Kids say the DARNDEST things....

2009-12-01T13:06:00.002-05:00

This morning, Matthew said the funniest thing to me. He was walking on my side of our bed- the side where all my sewing stuff is...and he stepped on a needle. It rammed into his heel, and he screamed in pain. He pulled it out as I stared- what else could I do? He looked me square in the face and said- "Mom Im getting a hazmat suit to wear on your side of the bed. Its dangerous over here!"

Matthew is 12. And too smart for his own good. And adorable, with blue eyes and blonde hair....and he is quite the sarcastic one too. I love him..and I guess we will keep him.

And possibly buy him a hazmat suit for Christmas?!

Family Blessings

2009-11-18T12:49:00.002-05:00

How nice it is to reflect on family. This past week I had a lot of time to reflect. My dad has 6 siblings, and his oldest sister, Della passed away. It was a really tough weekend. She had been sick for quite a while, and her suffering came to an end on Friday evening. I was looking for something that would give me peace about the whole situation, when I ran across these pictures. The top one is my brother, with his son, doing something they both love...We are a big outdoor family and appreciate all of the time we spend together...The bottom one is of my grandpa Kell and my dad, doing what they love...and spending time together...Its a copy of a copy, so Im lucky to have it at all.....
This is a better picture of grandpa, and I have to say everything I ever learned about family I learned from him.He passed away when I was young- 7 I think. I will never forget the day either- my older cousins had all of us at the pool and they paged Drew over the intercom...It was such a heavy day for us. ( grandpa spoiled me rotton, and I have had a heavy heart ever since)

Being a family doesn't mean perfection - it means maintaining and keeping our relationships with one another, reguardless of situations and opinions. Being a family is about being different people, and blending the differences together to make us a unique structure. To my family who loves their hardest , cares as much as time will allow, and really nurtures their relationships, I say I love you once again. To those of you who are stuck in a past where unforgiveness has hardened your heart against one or another, I say its too bad and I feel sorry for you. You really do not know what you are missing. :)

VGNO

2009-11-06T09:14:00.005-05:00

So for this edition, i am going to share a little bit of why VGNO has become important to me. First, It is one day each week I am assured to get a comment- even if its only because my spell checker thingy wasn't working.
:)
I also like to visit the various blogs and see what everyone has been up to all week.
Kinda like a weekly reunion of me and other people who are quirky like me.
So BIG thanks to ANN for hosting this blog- hopping party each Friday- it is so much appreciated!

For drinks tonight Im focusing on coffee- Ive got a zillion sewing projjects started and none of them finished...
And I have 4 children who may need some attention before the week is out...
My oldest got his DRIVERS LICENSE last week- thats why I wasn't around- I was too busy worrying about him. ( he was on the couch and didnt go anywhere)
Im a bit of a spaz, what can I say.

So kick back and enjoy the party, and the blogs, and hopefully we will see each other soon! ( virtually Im thinking)

Find Me Friday

2009-11-06T09:08:00.001-05:00

Can you see my cardinal friend? There are 6 pairs of them living on my pine trees- right outside the back door!

HARVEST BLESSINGS

2009-10-26T10:56:00.005-04:00

Fall is my favorite time of year...Harvest and apple cider..pumpkins and straw and cornstalks everywhere.
Spiders and bats and bees, taking the last of their flight before it comes time to bed down for winter months ahead.

I love it when I wake up in the morning and the fields around us are being harvested...It gets dusty in here if I miss an open window, but when I wake up and the farm equipment is around me, I know its time to break out the hoodies and mow down the last of the garden....

Sounds a little funny, but its overwhelming to see the grain trucks full to the brim, when you know they are a product of sweat and hardwork from your neighbors and friends...

Thanks to Danny and Josh and Phil for including my family in your farm life! My boys have precious memories of late night rides in a combine, driving a tractor for the first time and spending time at the dairy helping to calve in heifers and feed the babies..

Living in a small community is such a blessing,. and I love our farmers and their families- dedicated to improving the lives of everyone that crosses their path!
Thank your local producer this week! You may be eating their crop soon!

VGNO

2009-10-23T13:42:00.003-04:00

Do I need glasses? Maybe...

For this edition of VGNO....

I am going to be vocalizing my support for two things...
than on to my own VGNO celebration, which has me locked in my bedroom with an expensive burrito and a bottle of cheap wine- (backward I know)

this one
is close to my heart because its my girls..:)And Im a good mom- or so she tells me....

this one
because I think its groovy. ( can i say that?)

I love VGNO, and I am sorry I havent been around..I mis you all terribly , and while Im not exactly in bloggers paradise, I do have all of these ideas swirling around in my head.

I am juggling things and having a hard time getting into a routine, aside form work stuff....

Thanks for hanging n there with me...

I appreciate all of your comments and suggestions,
and I thank ANN for her time with VGNO......

Hopefully when I come up with a great idea you all will join me weekly too?!

Have a great VGNO..I will be stopping by to see you all tonight!

Freaky Friday

2009-10-23T13:16:00.002-04:00

so yikes imagine my surprise when this little guy decided to visit me on my laptop...not once but 3 times....:)

this one jumped at me from the wall right after i took this pic...

im starting to creep myself out here....

Oh look. a nice wooly worm for me to gaze at... ahhh fall...

I wanted to use a real creepy font, but I'm a little more than a little lazy today..Im trying to work and blog at the same time.. not a great idea...

This post is dedicated to all of you who love Halloween as long as the spiders are fake and the eyeballs are bubblegum. :)

Believe me, these babies are as real as it gets, and I am not real happy about their decision to move into my house....:)
But they ae entertaining...

Post your freaky moment ...
and remember- nothing is as freaky as reality!

Freaky Friday

2009-10-14T11:38:00.003-04:00

Freaky Friday

Just so everyone knows, this is a post i will do each week. These first two are two of my encounters with Wolf Spiders this week.....one Monday, one Tuesday. Words cannot express my freskiness over these. Im not a spider killer, but they most definately do not belong on my keyboard or on my wall by my desk!

If there is anything especially Icky or Freaky maybe you will be featured in a future post!

If you have an encounter of the freaky, scary, or just icky nature, please share it with us!.

I will try to feature as many of them as I can on Fridays, and there will be a link to view all of the Freaky Friday posts....

So link up today, and we will see who has the Freakiest of them all!

please keep it clean, all posts are subject to deletion at the discretion of the facilitator..(me)

And if you have any questions, please let me know!

We are starting this today, but from now on it will be posted on Friday!

Monday...and How I surprised myself...

2009-10-12T16:28:00.003-04:00

For those of you who read my post about my "friend rules"....

HAHAHAHAHAHA

I actually surprised myself, that I have such expectations for people. REALLY?
Im sticking by my guns, though. I believe every word I said, and a few I didnt say.
Friendship is important to me, and I have to know I can trust you not to run over me like a runaway freight train...I think its all reasonable.

I love how Mondays seem to fly by, then sometimes I feel like the clock is playing a cruel joke on me...
tick-tock-tick

ugh

I am surprised also at my ability to write. Im thinking about publishing a book. Probably not soon, and not about anything in particular. Just something so parents and moms and women like me know they aren't alone. Cause I hate feeling like I;m the only one in a situation, and I could use a book ot two- ( like I don;t already own them all).

I want to be an inspiration and maybe mix in a little humor. I do not like trashy comedy and I do not appreciate it when women demean other women based on their beliefs, experiences, etc....so...

Im going to try my first chapter out on YOU GUYS...then I will get the rest printed and published and let you all know when its finished....

Im excited, because I love to write....

So I hope you love to read...

Cause I'm ready..
Now where is that spellchecker thingy?

VGNO

2009-10-09T11:55:00.004-04:00

FOR THIS INSTALLMENT OF VGNO, I DECIDED TO TRY SOMETHING A LITTLE NEW...

First let me tell you how excited I was to eat this sugar waffle a couple weeks ago...YUMMMY!

For VGNO My daughter morgan and I are hanging out at home, with my youngest son. We have a movie to watch,and we are prolly going to order pizza or calzones or something.

Im looking forward to curling up in my chair and finishing my latest read- which is of course PURE FICTION..exactly what I need after the last two weeks...

Im excited to be back blogging again..my page is getting a facelift and Im going to be a better blogger from now on...
Just wait til you see it....

:)

I have a post from today Id like you all to read- its about friendship...my own personal rules, condensed of course. ( gotta save something for later)

Comments welcome and appreciated!!

Im writing my VGNO post early, so Im not sure what ANN has planned for us, but Im sure its good! It always is!
In the meantime, Im going to "jam out" ( am I still allowed to say that?)

Im listening to my fav radio station- KLOVE

POSITIVE>>ENCOURAGING>KLOVE

he he..im a walking advertisement.

I saw something this week about someone visiting every link to every blog they featured or followed- what a great idea! Im going to try ot do that tonight as well...so I can blog hop and catch up with old friends... Im excited to be back!

Hope you all have a great WEEKEND..Happy VGNO!

Thanks to Ann for hosting !

almost forgot- recipe--

1 c super duper hot chocolate
1 c super duper hot coffee
1.2 c steamed milk
1/2 c real whipping cream ( or canned kind)
mix hot coco and coffee well...add steamed milk
top with whipping cream...

YUMMYYY

Makes 2 servings- at least at my house.
:)
ENJOY

My rules of friendship...:)

2009-10-09T11:05:00.006-04:00

me and angie

This is the basis of my latest post....

I LOVE THIS song and video.....sorry- it wouldnt let me embed.:(

It has really been on my heart and on my mind....

And I really really needed to hear it.

So, then, because I am so frustrated with my personal relationships with other people, Id like to share my story.....

Before I share Id like to also state that I am a human, I have feelings, and Im not a solid rock....

I also am not intending on hurting anyone elses feelings.....

Im sure there is a lesson here...Ive learned my portion the hard way..

So here I go....

I think friendship is based on trust, love and unconditional support- even when you do not agree or understand....You do not have to support my actions, just me as a person. When I have consequences, you need to still stand with me, as my friend, even when Im wrong.

As my friend you are expected to tell me when my butt looks big in certain clothing, when my hair looks like a lawn mower hit it and when my eyeliner is smudged all over my eyeball region. I also expect that when I ask a question I will get the truth...because if you cant get the truth from your friends....blah blah blah..

Incidentally, when there is the HINT of a major wardrobe malfunction, and and you know...ASK...GEEZ.

As a "BFF" type of friend, I expect nothing but sincerity, and for you to be YOU, not trying to be anyone else... especially because of what you think I expect....(did i lose you there?) We can laugh, cry, love, live...this is the type of friend who invites you tho their wedding, tells you about thier jitters, makes sure you are at her baby shower, (and if you arent calls to see why not..)....this friend knows something about you that NO ONE else knows- (maybe even your husband- which I am not a fan of but it does happen...) This friend has your shoe size and knows you dont like things about yourself, but you settle so you can eat cheesecake.
This friend can be male of female, and has their own ringtone on your phone..so your kids can yell..."you can answer mom, its _____... :) ( i should know)

When you are a "casual" friend, not BFF, but not just an aquaintance, I expect you to treat me with respect, which I think everyone deserves. I know we arent super close, but if there is a death in your family, im bringing a box of kleenex, and some brownies, and if there is a wedding, Im there with the camera.....and when your husband is being an idiot, well we will just pretend I married their king and laugh it off.....

When you are a casual aquaintance,you are still my friend. And you need to be LOYAL. I am tired of people who use the word "friend" as a reason to find out more, know more, do more, see more, and TALK MORE.... I know girls, and guys..who are my "friends' - then as soon as they get a tidbit of something juicy its off to the races- of their mouths..and its infuriating.

Being a friend is keeping your mouth closed when you need to and open when its appropriate...Let me clarify- Im still learning too,a nd I try to conciously make decisions about my friendships based on how Id feel if on the reicieving end of some things...

Take this past summer...
Had a friend who lives out of town who came home to have her baby. Nice girl, great hubby..nice families all around.
Supposed to be "close" friends..were like sisters once..so imagine my suprise when I found out- the day after- that I didnt even get INVITED to her baby shower....this was after I made a fool of myself giving her a bag of 12 outfits I carefully shopped for . Newborn stuff- even on sale- aint cheap. And when I presented them- in their dept store bag ( we are/were that close), her husband looked and oohed and ahhd at them all...she just said thanks...and didnt even act interested in me being there. Not hank you note or call. nothing.
This was in front of several people I know, after church, the day after the shower. I found out about the shower later in the afternoon when I heard another friend talking about how she felt bad cause she couldn't attend.....REEEEAAALLLYYY?
My feeling have been hurt before, but this was ridiculous! I was soo hurt. still am a little....then I get the call..she calls to tell me how stupid her brown hair is. ( i have brown hair- hello). I was a little put off by her lack of sincerity with me, and it occurs to me, its been like this for a long time in our "friendship". If I have nothing "tangible" to offer, then I am left alone where she is concerned. Its just frightening that I didnt see it before. Did I let myself get used, because I wanted her friendship so badly? My hubby says thats not the case. He thinks Im genuinely nice and friends with her cause I love her. But it isnt a two way street...and I should be thinking twice.

Well that just sucks. To have a GUY giving me FRIEND ADVICE on someone I have known MY WHOLE LIFE.

WOWZA.
No wonder my feelings are hurt a bit.

So to wrap up...

Be a friend or disappear, cause no one has time to be hurt, used or abused by you.

Do not ever let someone go out in public looking like they just came off a shipwreck...

Have the decency to apologize when you are wrong...

Know when to quit.

Am I too harsh?

I love you guys..my blogging friends ,and Grandma and mom- if you are reading this..be nice.

God isnt finished with me yet. :)

You either.

VGNO

2009-09-11T15:14:00.004-04:00

WOW the sky is blue today......
And tomorrow it will be as well...

Welcome to yet another VGNO-
where the cocktails flow anyway you like them, and the blogs are EXCEPTIONAL!

I am so excited about this little heart shaped rock traveling all around!
I will check my mailbox everyday with anticipation....Going to be fun to see where it gets to go!

my hubby is the one on the left- if it were the one in the middle i wouldnt ever worry about our electric bill! :)
This weekend is very special for us, as it is our 17th wedding anniversary!
We aren't very organized this year- its 320 and we still don't have a plan yet....LOL

We like Amish Country- Ohio has the largest Amish settlement in the world..and they have the BEST shopping, food, and QUIET TIME you can ever find :)
And we like to camp, but we have been a little under the weather...
Truth is, we dont care, as long as we have some quiet time with each other. No cell phones no kids no drama.

And did I mention I love the love of my life with all of my heart? And I cannot wait for him to come home from work so we can go!

So after 17 years, what are my words of wisdom?
*dont fight about money- it doesnt create any extra...
*dont go to bed angry
*If you accidentally fall asleep angry, have good make up time
( i will leave that to your imagination)
* do not ever takes sides where children are involved
*pray everyday for one another
* lock your spouses debit card in a drawer ( ha ha long story)
* be affectionate in front of your kids- they need to know love
*know the difference between a kiss and a peck

I have more but I need to pack I think?!

This week I helped my daughter Morgan start a blog. It concerns a challenge dear to her heart, and I am hoping all of you will visit! She needs encouragement with her task, so please leave her a comment!

I appreciate it so much!
You can link to her HERE
She is an awesome girl with a huge heart!

I am trying to grow my blog as well, and if any of you have any suggestions you havent already sent me, please feel free.
( i know use spell check) :)

Have a great VGNO and Im hoping to have some FANTASTIC PICS of our weekend for you next time!

CORA..

2009-09-10T11:57:00.002-04:00

So, this is my niece Cora...

She is an eighth grader...and an amazing girl!

She is taking horseback riding lessons for the heck of it..and she looks like a natural on the horse!

She saddles up, grooms and goes....

I have to say Cora is very special to me...she is my first niece on either side of the family, and her sense of humor is amazing! She spends time rooting for the OSU BUCKEYES, and time with us .
She also likes to shoot guns and hunt and fish , and she is very good at it!
She is not your typical girls, and I'm glad.

WFMW

2009-09-09T11:41:00.004-04:00

Ohhh its time for yet another WFMW post!

I have a NEED and a GREAT IDEA.

Lets get the need outta the way...
I need a homemade, inexpensive way to store cds and dvds ...I dont care really if its visible or not- I just need something that is functional and i can hang on the wall?!?!

As for my contribution today, its all about tablecloths...:)

I saw this on an episode of some show I was watching, and I tweaked it to make it work here....

I buy tablecloths on clearance, all the time...I change them everyday. LOVE THEM

What I hate is when someone gets caught on one or the dog tries to pull it off the table. So, I take the time to put either a sticky Velcro piece or a buttonhole on the four corners of the square ones ( my table is oval)

I then have a strip of Velcro and a piece of fabric with a button sewed to it attached to the underside of my table.

When I change the tablecloth, I simply use whichever attachment is on the table cloth to keep it from sliding or getting pulled off.

It works like a dream, esp on the picnic table outside where the wind blows...
I have both on each table, except the glass outdoor tables, where I can only use the velcro.

This trick has worked for me for ages, and I hope you can use it to work for you too!

ps- at Christmas time, I use this trick to decorate my tabletops like a gift...LOL

CHEESY I know, but I like the way it looks and we are decorated and still use the table!

TUESDAYS PRAYER

2009-09-08T11:22:00.004-04:00

Have you ever been placed in a position where you were waiting for something good to happen,because only faith and waiting could make it so? Or maybe you are a "go-getter" and patience is a virtue you havent been lessoned on yet? Or maybe you are tired of "fighting the good fight" because inside you are so messed up you just want to sleep. Because when you sleep God offers you a bit of peace you do not experience when you are awake.

Im there. Beyond the breaking point, with finances, relationships, family, all of it. So where do I begin to re-construct my life, and how do I decide what to keep and what to dispose of? Is there a magical scripture that will point me the way? Being overwhelmed in the heart is really consuming on a mothers soul. It aches 24 hours a day. Wanting what is best, and knowing how to accomplish it- 2 totally different things.

I havent spent enough time in my garden. (my garden is real, where I go to the proverbial one) I need a good solid day, in the dirt, on my hands and knees,to weed things out. To cry or perhaps pray. Or maybe to just listen. What, O Lord , is it that you want for me? I know what you want from me, but I do not know what I am intended to DO. What do I do? I cannot falter - there are people depending on me. Husband, children., parents, friends. How do I know if I am to turn left or right? How do I know if I am to walk or run?
Please Lord. I need some instruction, guidance, help. I need something I can only get from you. Since I was a child, i have felt your hand upon my heart,never knowing quite what to do with it. Now my heart is heavy and burdened.
I need redemption.

OOH LAST MINUTE FOR THIS GIVEAWAY!

2009-09-06T13:00:00.002-04:00

This is a cool giveaway!
First of all, the name of the company- NachoMama...lol i am rotfl!

Go see Kristen here

Make sure you get as many entries as you can!

And check out their shirts!

still laughing!

And thank Kristen for yet another giveaway!

VGNO- REVISED.....

2009-09-04T13:35:00.006-04:00

so with my new hair im saluting all of you who can take another vgno...
im a little on the blogging BLAH...and i think its cause of everything else....

so VGNO is a good time for me to
say hi!

this evening i will be eating a Digiorno and Doritos and finishing off a rumm party pail.....

prolly by myself

cause im kinda hateful and a bit of a sourpuss...

maybe i need a vgno weekend...can i get one of those?

lol

wow im in a funk....

so lets go to Anns and check out her heart rock project- sounds like a lot of fun to me.
.

and im hoping when i get it my picture doesnt include driving my car through a random building....but no promises... :)

lmbo just for all of you

My daughter has a GREAT BIG PROJECT... SEE HERE

AWESOME.....!!!!!

have a great nite and a safe holiday!!

Can i ask a small question of everyone? how do you do it? how do you keep followers, grow your blog, gain sponsors etc? i would love for this to be my career, not just a hobby i do while on hold for my real job. :( i love blogging, but i feel like i need a direction and im not getting any feedback- fgood bad or indifferent from anyone on my daily posts. i dont even know if my followers are reading me. im not sure how to make this work and be effective. i want to keep doing this cause i love it, but im not sure how to make it better. and im running out of time each day between work and kids...ARGHHH... i dont know the best way to market myself, and its frustrating that i spend so much time puting some of my posts together and then ....i dont even know if someone read it.....

WHERES MY MONEY?

2009-09-04T12:32:00.004-04:00

OK, SO HERE IT GOES.....

THIS IS THE OFFICIAL BEGINNING OF TRACKING WHERE MY MONEY GOES.
BECAUSE IT GOES, AND NEVER COMES BACK.
AND THAT JUST STINKS.

IN MY QUEST TO BE A BETTER MONEY MANAGER, I AM CHOOSING A FEW THINGS THAT I CAN "CANCEL"- SUBSCRIPTIONS, CABLE/SATTELITE, NETFLIX, IF ITS EXTRA, WE ARE GIVING IT UP. I AM EVEN PARTING *SNIFF* WITH INTERNET AND TEXTING ON MY CELL PHONE FOR A FEW MONTHS TO CUT BACK ON THE COST OF THAT BILL, SO I CAN PAY OFF SOME OTHER DEBT.( OOH THE KIDS ARE GONNA HATE THIS)

WE ARE ALSO ALL CLIPPING COUPONS- IF THERE IS NO COUPON- WE AINT BUYIN IT...

THIS BETTER WORK OR IM GONNA BE MADE MISERABLE FOR NOTHING. :)

AS FAR AS MEDICAL BILLS GO, THEY ALL HAVE AN AUTOMATIC PAYMENT PLAN, SO THEY WILL BE PAID IN TIME...LITTLE BY LITTLE.

WE DISCOVERED WE CAN USE OUR FLEXIBLE SPENDING ACCOUNT FOR PRESCRIPTIONS AS WELL AS OVER THE COUNTER THINGS- JUST GOTTA REMEMBER TO KEEP THE RECIEPTS.

ALSO HEARD- (DIDNT KNOW THIS) THAT IF YOU KEEP THINGS PLUGGED IN ALL DAY THEY USE POWER- EVEN THOUGH THEY ARENT ON...SO I GOT OUT ALL THE SURGE PROTECTORS AND REARRANGED JUST ABOUT EVERYTHING THATS PLUGGED IN TO SAVE A FEW BUCKS- IT WAS TRUE! I CHECKED THE METER AND IT SLOWED DRASTICALLY.

SO HERE ARE THE BILLS, IN NO PARTICULAR ORDER....

THINGS THAT WONT PAY OFF SUPER FAST:

HOUSE- WE LIVE IN
HOUSE -WE LIVE IN
HOUSE- WE RENT OUT
TRUCK 1
TRUCK 2
DVC
PERSONAL LOAN
INSURANCE

CREDIT CARDS I CAN PAY OFF FAST:

VISA
CAP1-J
CAP1-A
DISCOVER

NORMAL STUFF:

HOME PHONE
CELL PHONE
ELECTRIC
TRASH
PROPANE
SATELLITE
HUGHES NET
PROP TAXES

GROCERIES
GAS
MEDICAL BILLS
NETFLIX
ENTERTAINMENT

THE NUMBERS ARENT LARGE ON THE CREDIT CARDS- TOTALLY GOING TO BE MY FIRST ACHIEVEMENT. THE PERSONAL LOAN IS KINDA SMALL TOO. BUT IM AFTER THE BIG DOGS....THE TRUCKS AND THE SECOND MORTGAGE.

SO IF ANYONE HAS ANY GOOD IDEAS AS TO HOW TO PAY THIS OFF- LET ME KNOW. I HAVE BEEN SENT TO DAVE RAMSEYS WEBSITE A COUPLE TIMES, AND ALI HAS BEEN A BIG HELP IN TELLING ME TO TELL MYSELF NO TO THINGS UNTIL WE ARE OK....

DEBT IS A SERIOUS PROBLEM FOR MOST FAMILIES, AND WE ARE NOT ALONE, OUR DEBT WE HAVE ACQUIRED KNOWINGLY, AND WE HAVE TO ACCEPT AND DEAL WITH THE CONSEQUENCES. TRYING TO KEEP THINGS PAID UP IS A TASK, BUT TRYING TO PAY THEM OFF EARLY IS NEARLY IMPOSSIBLE FOR MOST PEOPLE. IT IS HARD TO PAY PETER WHILE ROBBING PAUL- I KNOW I AM SITTING THERE. MAKING DECISIONS ABOUT KEEPING THE GROCERIES OR BUYING GAS FOR THE CAR ISNT ALWAYS EASY.
WE ARE NOT CARRYING OUR DEBIT CARDS ANYMORE. WE DO NOT HAVE A CHECKBOOK ON US. WE DO NOT GO WINDOW SHOPPING OR TO FLEA MARKETS OR TO GARAGE SALES.--LOOKING LEADS TO BUYING.......BUYING LEADS TO BLAME AND GUILT.

ITS ALL UNNEEDED. I HAVE BEEN READING PROVERBS THIS WEEK EACH DAY BEFORE I START WORKING, AND THE ONE THING I KEEP GOING BACK TO IS PROVERBS 3.
I READ IT OVER AND OVER AND NOW I HAVE HAD THE REALIZATION I CAN DO THIS.

IM HOPING PUTTING MY FINANCES OUT THERE FOR YOU TO SEE AND WATCH MY JOURNEY IS GOING TO BENEFIT SOMEONE.

AND IF ANYONE WANTS TO CONTRIBUTE FROM THEIR EXPERIENCE PLEASE DO NOT HESITATE TO LET ME KNOW.....IM GLAD FOR ANY AND ALL ADVICE.....

THE BIRD

2009-09-04T12:23:00.003-04:00

THIS IS A BIRD THAT WATCHES ME WORK THROUGH THE WINDOW EVERY DAY. I HAVE NO IDEA WHAT KIND OF BIRD IT IS, BUT IT HAS A SWEET SONG AND MAKES ME SMILE ON DAYS WHEN ALL I WANT TO DO IS GROWL.....

:)

Who ARE you?

2009-09-03T15:49:00.002-04:00

Ok so, SOMEONE out there must think I am worth something, cause I got a package in the mail today.....

No return address....
no clue....

Just a bunch of NEatly clipped coupns and a Starbucks gift card...???!!!

What? If I have a stalker, Ill take it, cause this isnt all that bad...
(who turns down free starbucks?)

NOT ME...

If you are out there- (mailed from a zip code for Duluth Ga, )

THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU.......

And my hubby thanks you cause we will be using that one on our anniversary next weekend......since we are so broke we cant pay attention and are prolly only going to make it to dinner- no trip this time:(

But its ok.....as long as we do something ....17 years is a long time. :)

WFMW

2009-09-02T11:12:00.000-04:00

This works for me... enough said. :)

School Lunches

2009-09-01T11:13:00.003-04:00

So good morning everyone!
I just wanted to ask a few questions....
I know some of you are home schooling moms, and I can appreciate that so much more now that I am one too!

My questions concern school lunches and solutions...

I know what my kids likes and dislikes are....I know who likes tuna, and who doesn't, I have a yogurt eater and a cheese stick eater...I have a junk food junkie too...:)
( incidentally she gets it from me....)

My biggest two dilemmas are time and money- of course.
Our school lunches are HORRIBLE .....tiny and frozen, so the school decided they would switch companies and go another route...the kids say they are better, but I am not convinced. I know somewhere out there , there is a mom who has developed a plan to overcome school lunch trauma and get her kids into the habit of eating the good stuff on a regular basis- she just isn't me....:)

I'm looking for a few simple tricks that are cost effective to use in packing our lunches...

My boys are 10 and 11, daughter in High School.....so they need good stuff that is portable...I'm just out of ideas...:)

And I need to keep my sanity...

Thanks in advance for any comments or suggestions....

WE HAVE A WINNER!!!!!!

2009-08-27T09:33:00.002-04:00

WILL SOMEONE PLEASE TELL GENA SHE IS THE WINNER OF LAST WEEKS GIVEAWAY?

CAUSE I FORGOT TO POST THIS ON MONDAY, SO SORRY!

THE BOOK IS BY JOYCE MEYER AND IS CALLED THE PENNY- IT WAS REALLY GOOD AND IM GLAD I WAS ABLE TO GIVE IT AWAY!

IF YOU HAVE A GOOD BOOK THAT YOU REALLY ENJOYED ( AND YOU CAN BEAR TO PART WITH IT) TRY GIVING IT AWAY ON YOUR BLOG!

TRADING BOOKS IS ECONOMICAL AND KEEPS US ALL READING!

THANKS TO ALL WHO ENTERED!

Thankful THursday

2009-08-27T07:09:00.000-04:00

In July I took a short road trip with my friend Angie . We went to Ga to meet up with her in laws to take her kids for a week.....

Her kids did great in the car and we picked up my nephews on the way home, in Tn. This is one of them with my Matthew cooking something in the kitchen...

Something else I did this summer was spend an entire week with Mackenzie- my youngest son.... This pic is with my niece and nephew at my parents house- they are all rotten and trouble! and lots of fun!

I am very thankful for the blessings of children. Whether it be my own, Angies or our nieces and nephews, they are all a blessing.....

Johns nephews are joining us this weekend again for a short visit.....going to be busy, but fun......

Tell us what you are thankful for!

thanks for hosting ALI!!!!!!

check this out!!!!!

2009-08-25T09:33:00.004-04:00

This GIVEAWAY i s totally AWESOME!!!! ( thank you Kristin)

I went onto the website for Serendipity Soapworks....
And it is awesome!

These people are following thier American Dream, searching for their own way to make their life how they want it, so I am in full support!

Plus, it is affordable and, did I mention the scents sound too good to be true?

I ordered RUM SOAP!!!!!! How cool is that?

Go see them ...its going to be a bathtime fizzy Christmas around here!!!!!

Find Me Friday

2009-08-21T15:12:00.003-04:00

K so my dad took this when he was in college......awesome...

I was waiting for the sun to peek out a couple weeks ago to burn off the frost.....I love this pic..its right outside the back door....

thanks to ali for hosting this! its fun!

VGNO_ FINALLY!!!!!

2009-08-21T14:28:00.005-04:00

Wahooooo...
Its finally here...
.
VGNO....
For those of you who dont know, its time for a VIRTUAL GIRLS NIGHT OUT!!!!

So Stop on over at Ann's place
for a nite out- sorta....

Tonight I am reflecting on another very stressful week at home....
I managed to get a lot done, Like canning, and sewing, and finishing a few unfinished projects.... like this one.

I am breathing a sigh of relief....school starts in just 4 days....YIPPEEEEEE...

Dont get me wrong , I love being a mom, and I love staying home to work..cause I get to be a mom that way.
But something happens the second week of August that just defines my reality.
I want them.... to....go...... lol

Mr Mike will be sticking around, as his Virtual Academy is his new place for learning...

However, Princess Cell Phone is driving me NUTS.......
" i wanna go, can so n so come over....

Blah Blah Blah....

Then there is mr Funny pants....
always keeps us laughing- when he is not yelling at someone to
"leave me alone!"

Then there is Mr Whiny Pants...
very cute, very cuddly, very whiny.
Very 10.

Then of course there is my hubby- whom I think is tired of me being grumpy and of my insomnia...... He is losing his patience with me fast, so
COME ON SCHOOL...LETS GO!!!!!!

I have picked more produce
this week than I care to admit....

So LETS PARTY!!!!!

This evening I will be drinking the usual grape smirnoff, and probably some carmel corn.....

Im also looking forward to a little lounging on the patio, with the mp3 on...loud so I cant hear anything else......

Just maybe I will get lucky and get locked out of the house to sleep there.....

Happy VGNO EVERYONE!!!!!!

ps...if you are ( or become) a follower of mine, I am giving away a Joyce Meyer Book this week....
leave me a comment that you would like to enter...
contest closes monday morn 9 am est.
THANKS!

Thankful THursday

2009-08-20T11:13:00.002-04:00

I am so grateful for this little silly face.

And all of these beautiful tomatos....

and these HOT HOT HOT PEPPERS.....

exceptionally thankful for my hubby who spends so much time mentoring our scouts- which includes 2 of my sons, Matthew - here-
and Mike below.....

I am also thankful for a God who doesnt ever leave us alone. no mater what we do.... AMEN!

WFMW

2009-08-19T11:50:00.003-04:00

For my WFMW Post my son had a GREAT IDEA....

At least I think so

All those veggies and fruits you are waiting to can....just sitting around....waiting to be preserved or eaten or given away....
Some of them meet an untimely death in the back of your fridge, right?

There is a tomato you forgot about or a squash that you cant reach...or that extra bit of salsa that didnt fit into the last canning jar?

NO WORRIES.

My 10 year old had a great idea, and I agree...

He put a cookie sheet on the bottom shelf of the fridge and stored everything on it. Then when he gets something out of there, it slides out and we can see everything .

Im sure this isnt news to most of you, but we are soo excited- I have saved helpless fruits and veggies all week from an untimely death.
Its borderline amazing...

Have a great day!

OOOH I LOVE NEW FOLLOWERS!

2009-08-17T16:17:00.003-04:00

All I can say is THANKS....
Thanks to my new followers for letting me entertain you ! I do not post everyday, but I try....
and ....
Sometimes my life is dramatic, and sometimes I write about dirt.
Just a way of life for me to continue writing about anything and nothing....and on ocassion, I actually say something that is worth something to someone...

So thanks again for tagging along.

LOVE YOU ALL................

ps i love my "old" followers too!

family reunion

2009-08-17T16:12:00.000-04:00

These are a few pics from my family reunion back in July....
My brother and my dad were having some sort of discussion...so I snapped pictures of them before they decided to go gang up on my cousins...

This is my niece- whom I shall call Miss Drama. For a 3.75 year old she is FULL OF IT........ and herself....

This is Morgan,Miss Drama and Amber on the paddle boat...the only place to hide from the boys....

Looks like this conversation didn't go as planned?!?! lol

Wilma Toni, Jackie ,Della, Donna
Thelma (gma) and Ron ( dad)
not in order of age..:)

This is my dads side of the family- Grandma and his 5 sisters and him. They are a really fun group....when they get together you never know whats going to happen.....

My Grandma is 92 .
Doesnt she look great.
She is awesome!
Just sayin".

midnight birthday..

2009-08-15T12:36:00.002-04:00

So, last night after we survived the Moms Football Game, ( sorry no pics, I guess when I hand the camera to someone they think they are supposed to hold it)
Anyway- we had a "midnight birthday"

This is the birthday girl- "Nika" She turned 4 at midnight, so we got a blueberry chream cheese muffin added some candles and PRESTO...she was 4

It was a lot of fun. and her mom Angie was as excited as Nika was....

Then everyone went home and we fell asleep...It was around 1....lol

Im too old for midnight birthdays, but this was a lot of fun!

ps..i kicked butt at football

VGNO_ FINALLY!!!!!

2009-08-14T14:17:00.007-04:00

So I have finally joined the rest of you in the faster more reliable virtual world.....Thanks to a huge satellite dish and $124 bucks...Im able to post away....

So Im hopin if you dont already, that you will join me for a Virtual GIrls Night Out over at Ann's..."Dear Diary"

To play "Dear Diary" fill-in the blanks using the chart below. Now, this game will hint at your age. Get ready!

Dear Diary,

My best friend (a)________ and I went shopping for (b)________. We wanted to show them off when we went to hang out at the (c)___________. You won't BELIEVE who we saw at the mall. (d)____________! We screamed so loud they had to call Security. It was the best day ever!

Now, fill-in the blanks with the time-table of the year you entered High School.

Entered High School:
1975-1979 (a) Donna
1980-1983 (a) Tiffany
1984-1988 (a) Claire
1989-1993 (a) Jennifer
1994-1996 (a) Alanis

Entered High School:
1975-1979 (b) Bell Bottoms
1980-1983 (b) Argyle Sweater
1984-1988 (b) Neon Leggings
1989-1993 (b) Black Rubber Bracelets
1994-1996 (b) $200 Ripped Jeans

Entered High School:
1975-1979 (c) Roller Rink
1980-1983 (c) Arcade
1984-1988 (c) Food Court
1989-1993 (c) Multi-Plex
1994-1996 (c) Skate Park

Entered High School:
1975-1979 (d) John Travolta
1980-1983 (d) Mel Gibson
1984-1988 (d) Tom Cruise
1989-1993 (d) Brad Pitt
1994-1996 (d) Keanu Reeves

Here is her game of the night.

.Dear Diary,

My best friend (a)__claire and I went shopping for (b) neon leggings_. We wanted to show them off when we went to hang out at the (c)__food court___. You won't BELIEVE who we saw at the mall. (d)__Tom Cruise___! We screamed so loud they had to call Security. It was the best day ever!

LOL I had neon leggings- now my daughter has them!.....

Where the drinks are free (virtually) and the love is in ABUNDANCE...

I started this day by looking at some pics of my baby- Tinkerbell- for those of you who do not know- I lost her on Tues and it has been a very very long week...:(

Then today I found some pics ...
She was definately the love of my life, where pets are concerned, and even though my heart is still so sore, and I can barely breath thinking about it, I am glad to be able to share her with all the photos I have.

So I join VGNO with the need for some fun and a cheering up- because that is exactly what you all do for me!

I also have a song in my head- again...lets see....

listen here
for a great VGNO song....

I am picking up a party pail for drinks tonight- no muss no fuss...just add the alcohol and freeze it up.....Yummmmy Rum RUnner...

So far this week, there has been a bat in our house, at 5 am, a parakeet loose- (today) and our puppie has died. I think I need a real GNO! So, tonight at the Football PEP RALLY...I will be joining all the moms of the 1-6 graders to play a little "foozeball" myself... go to the link and laugh your butt off.... HOPEFULLY i WILL HAVE PICS OF THE GAME..IF I SURVIVE..

So for VGNO, Im hoping you all have a lot of fun and get off your feet and relax a little.....

LET THE GOOD TIMES ROLL GIRLS!

And i look forward to seeing al of you this weekend when I am able to blog hop around at all of your posts....

My Tink

2009-08-12T09:23:00.002-04:00

This is by far the hardest post I have ever written. I am so heartbroken I cannot even describe how much my soul just aches.

Yesterday, while I was working at my desk my daughter came running into the house to tell me something was wrong with Tinkerbell, my 18 month old St Bernard. I went outside, because she has a habit of getting tangled up in everything, so I figured I was going to untangle her and bring her in for a bit.

I was so wrong. She was having seizures i think, and in between she was falling over. I was out of my mind. My sons and my daughter helped me lug her to the house, where we held her while my oldest got the car. There was just no time. She just kept looking at me, and her breathing finally slowed until she took was one last deep breath and that was it. She died in our arms.

Now I know a lot of people would say she was just a dog, but let me take you back. I turned 34 in Feb of 08- my hubby surprised me with my very first dog of my own- Tinkerbell- at a mere 23 lbs, we knew she would be big, but she was exactly what I wanted. I trained her. She didn't pee in the house much after she was trained. She never jumped on anyone. She liked to get in my bed when John was at work, and she was a great watchdog. She was still a puppy even up to yesterday. I had plans to get her fixed and obedience school in the fall. She was like having another child for me.
So now I sit here and think of all the funny things she did- like when she sits on the furniture like a person....like in the top pic.
When she would run to the neighbors to jump in their pond, then come home and look for John so she could shake off. When my youngest would try to walk her- instead getting drug by her. When Morgan would get the drool from her shaking all over her clothes when she'd come down the stairs. And I keep thinking about her and Lady , our golden retriever, who keeps walking around looking for her. All day today and all night last night.

I feel like I got in to a nightmare and can't wake up.Its all a fog today. And Im missing her big feet terribly.
And her overly drooly face.
And her big tail knocking everything off of everything.
I think after the sleeples night I had last night, id give anything to have Tink back in my house , because her being in the way was a huge blessing for us all.

WFMW

2009-08-12T09:13:00.004-04:00

Once a week I have one of my boys go outside and clean the trashcan. It keeps it from getting "icky" and keeps them learning about cleanliness and the importance of it. So, when I sent Mackenzie out, he seemed to be taking a bit longer than usual.

This is why- he dumps in a little bleach and a little dishsoap and runs the hose until the trashcan is clean.

lol

I had no idea he was so grossed out that he didnt want to touch it- I even have gloves but he wants no part of it. funny thing is, when he does this it cleans it better than any other method.

sounds wierd,but it really does work for me.

and apparantly him.

have a great day.

what a wonderful weekend....

2009-08-10T16:12:00.004-04:00

SO, SOMETIMES WE CHEAT AND DO SMORES OVER- WHATEVER FIRE WE CAN LIGHT.

AND SOMETIMES WE JUST SIT AND DO NOTHING.

OR EAT ALL DAY

OR MAKE FUN OF MOM WITH THE CAMERA AND ACT LIKE WE ARE LOOKING FOR ALIENS....

AND SOMETIMES WE GET CAUGHT JUST BEING A BOY.

BOYS LIKE LAKES.

LAST WEEKEND WE WENT CAMPING AS ONE LAST OUTING BEFORE SCHOOL STARTS. IT WAS FUN AND RELAXING. OUR FAMILY NEEDED IT.
AND MICHAEL DODGED EVERY SINGLE PICTURE.

WHERES MY MONEY?

2009-08-06T10:24:00.004-04:00

I finally decided to take the time to start this daily post about where the heck all of our money goes.....because it seems it goes so fast and nowhere, so I am challenging my family and myself to track every dime for however long it takes to make a change.....

Eventually the goal is to eliminate a good deal of our debt, and put a chunk into savings every chance we get....

so here goes...

The way I am posting this for my family is on 3 poster boards- they are labeled "deposits", "monthly bills" and " other expenses"....I have them categorized also due to the needs -vs-the wants , and stars next to the ones we can eliminate if necessary, to help pay off the debt we owe. i will post pics as soon as they are complete...

We also have a plan in place to eliminate grocery expenses, and daily travel expenses, but those will be posted another day.

The goal of this program is to eliminate debt and to teach my kids about how to handle their money- No one teaches them this- not even the best economics courses in college prepare anyone for the real world of personal finance.....

I am also reading and learning tricks from professionals, such as Dave Ramsey and Clark Howard . They both have awesome websites and tools to use for specific situations.....And they have a place on their specific website where you can ask questions about finance- investments, escrows, etc...you name it, they can answer it....

Its nice to have good resources, but I want to have something simple and applicable to us right now, so I made my own system, following conditions and terms set forth by various professionals along the way.....

I hope that this post will enlighten you everyday, and will help my family, to influence your family on tracking Where Your Money goes!!!!

If anyone wants to link their ideas, successes, failures any tips etc, I will have that available as well....I also will eventually be giving away items to help you with money success....things that have helped me, things that are tools and even some fun things... so please stay posted and we will see where this gets us!

WFMW

2009-08-05T13:30:00.003-04:00

OOoh BACK To school.....YIKES......

Enough Said?!
Maybe so, but this year I have a few tricks up my sleeve..

school lunches- My kids hate them,,,, but packing in the morning has proven to be a disaster on more than one occasion, so, i have used this system for a long time and it works...

When we go grocery shopping everyone picks out one thing they want- this is the only junk they get...and its all theirs.....

Then I get the rest- we pack tuna salad, chicken salad, leftover cold meats and raw veggies. Sounds very June CLeaverish- but my kids love to have real food for lunch- and they need it! I have had their friends ask me to pack their lunches...and we do not go into a big expense either...I shop the discount grocery along with everyone else, and we gave up the hassle of lunchboxes a long time ago. We ziplock bag everything we can....If they need a :dish" for something we get the plastic ones so its not a big deal if its lost....In trying to save money I found that my kids are more appreciative for this way of lunching....and i know what they are getting for lunch

As far as school supplies go, we have a bit of a rebellious streak going right now- our teachers want things like wipes and tissues and ziplock bags etc for each of my children. I just dont do it. Im not sure why my 5/6graders need wipes. dont they have a SINK and SOAP? our district may be broke but GEEZ!!!! Im not kidding when i say at the end of the year there are LOCKERS FULL of this stuff from where they didnt use it all from that year- WHERE DOES IT GO? I send what they need ACADEMICALLY...there is no penalty, because its AGAINST THE LAW for a child to be left out of something because of school supplies or fees.... so I just dont bother with stuff they do not need....I buy the supplies on a discretionary basis...if its a need academically I get it as cheap as I can, if its wipes Im not buying it...doesnt make sense to me..

We serve breakfast at 730 sharp- you want to eat what im fixing you better be down here ready....TOTALLY READY...I made my point last year by fixing pancakes one morning and when my son came down late, he got cold cereal. He was mad, but was never late again...... neither was anyone else. :) it stinks playing hard ball but do what you gotta do...

If there is ever a question in your mind, do not be afraid to ask questions- I used to be afraid to do that- but in reality, you have access to your childs grades, records etc whenever you need them...within reason of course....
Teachers need our help- we live with our kids, and having a good communication process is essential.. We do not buy teacher gifts for everyone- only for tho ones my kids feel deserve them......

Know your childs school and talk to them about it a lot....not just the people but the building. Make sure they understand where they are and how to get out just in case.....being outside before you count kids in a fire drill is fine , in a real fire- not so fine.....so be sure they know...

Have you seen the hallmark commercial where the mom sneaks a card into the kids bag? I DO THAT. once a week for the whole school year my kids get a note from mom...they say they hate it but i found them ALL in the bottom of the boys lockers at the semester breaks, so it must not have been too bad....I dont buy cards- I just write a little something for each of them, on different days........iys a fun way to say- hey Im here.....just not holding your hand....(althoug in my mind I am)

I love/ hate back to school, so as we count down, lets just be greatful our kids can get an education . Some places in the world dont get this option .....
...

farm life...i love it!!

2009-07-29T19:06:00.003-04:00

I have to admit- I love living in the country where the dew falls as heavy as rain and the bean field is soo quiet, swaying in the breeze.....

My little chickies- not so little anymore getting ready to lay thier first eggs, as they fight over a spot on the roost each evening..

My little turkey - his name is Cajun cause thats what Im dreaming he will be one day soon.. a cajun roast turkey....,mmmmmmm!

This is an unwanted visitor to our barn, He along with several of his family memberes have been removed- to say the least- my least fav part of farm life....

This is my little dainty pretty puppy Tinkerbell. She is soooo still a puppy- she weighs almost as much as I do- but she is a puppy just the same. And a pretty good guard dog- no on likes for her to get too close- she is all drooly.....

Very funny.
Love it when people overstay their visit...really...I just let her run in the house and they "have to go"

lol
shhh
dont
tell
:)
I really do love our farm life- we have learned so much about each other and ourselves.

And now as I write this I wonder if it will ever stop storming....

Thankful THursday

2009-07-23T10:39:00.002-04:00

So, today I am thankful I could be of assistance to my friend Ali .
Yesterday was a rough day for her and Jim and I am glad I could help- no matter how minor it was..

I was reflecting on the day when I went to bed last night, and realized that we have so much to be thankful for...I have healthy kids, a great husband, and a God who loves me unconditionally- ( He should He made me! :) )

What Im saying is, with all my issues about trying to be more frugal, cost effective, loving, nurturing, trying to pay off debt and the list goes on and on....The one thing that is a constant is that I stay grateful and thankful for all I do have, so that when times are rough for my family, we have the hope of a new day, birthed from a day gone past.

WFMW

2009-07-22T09:32:00.003-04:00

For my WFMW post this week, i wanted to share a couple things i learned this week....

And I hope they bless your household too!

First off, when you find yourself in DEBT up to your EARS there is a way to track your spending and make it CLEAR to your ENTIRE household where the money goes.
I am making a poster to hang on a wall, where everyone will see it everyday, (not open to all guests).....Every single reciept, every check, every penny spent in this house will be recorded- I dont care if it is the change from the ashtray in the car, or my sons hard earned summer job money. We are tracking it all, to see where we can learn to save.
When I was younger, no one ever taught me about money- how to use it, not to use it save it , debt, nothing...and I think its cause no one ever taught my parents, or their parents. My grandparents survived the great depression, and my grandmother seemed to be afraid of her money my whole life.....always worried about not having enough. We just seem to "charge" everything.......

We buy things we do not need and we arent nearly as frugal as we ought to be. I know God blesses us through our finances- but are we returning the favor by being prepared? Are we really doing ok? Im voting a big fat NO on that one.....Im tired of stressing about money. So Im not. Instead Im teaching everyone in my household a huge lesson....I HOPE... :)

So Im starting a new challenge- I want to see if any of you will join us in posting your financials in your household- even if you are the only one there......I think having it stare us in the face will be a good start!!

There will soon be a link to join us and check in once a week... just to say how its going, and if you have any tips......Im new too, so any help at all will be welcomed! There will be rules etc....just to keep us all sane, but you can share as much or little as you want. I will be sharing quite a bit..because i am frustrated! :)

Secondly- Im joining the league of homeschoolers by enrolling my 16 year old son into a virtual academy for the next year......I have had enough of the school he has been in...its awful to think he will be seperated from his siblings, but I found one that works for our schedule, and i have the support of many professionals to help us along the way- Im hoping this really does work for us!

And I know I will have the support of all of you!

As a side note- I am soo thankful for all of my blogging friends.....I appreciate all of your tips and all of your stories...sometimes a girls just needs to laugh! And to know when she's laughing at herself there are others laughing with her- not at her.......:)

out of the country I go......

2009-07-16T13:05:00.003-04:00

So I am making a HUGE leap. I am leaving the US on Aug 22 ( or there abouts) and landing in the hot country of Haiti. How does this happen? One may ask. Simple. I have a friend in need and Im fulfilling it for her.

Let me back up.

You all have probably seen my posts about my friends who live in Haiti and run a host house for missionary workers. If not you can see one here.

They are both adorable selfless people and I love them as if they were in my own family.

In Jan of last year, AMy found she was unexpectedly pregnant with their first child., Then through the miracle of God they made the decision to adopt a child as well. Dorvensky has no american papers yet- nor does he have a passport. so, while they are here having baby boy, I am traveling to Haiti to stay with big baby boy in his own home, so he doesnt have to leave his own bed.....

WHEW~I need to take a breath- as I am sure you do too.....

I am overwhelmed with love for this family, and m yown family is so giving they are sacrificing me for the first week of school.......

I love them so much!

My challenge is working a plane ticket into the budget and I need everyones prayers for that....

Or if anyone has a ticket they can spare....I know- nice try-...

Thanks for listening to me babble- Im so excited I could BURST!!!!!!!

I will keep you all posted...I promise......

ANd there will be pictures available as well...

Love you all!

Thankful THursday

2009-07-16T12:56:00.004-04:00

I am very thankful for the lives of the Laird momma and her girls....as their recovery will take time God has taught my household a few very important lessons.......and to tell each other we love one another everyday.

Also, I am thankful for the support of friends like ALI . I am preparing to embark on a trip out of the country ( i will be posting about that today) and I need the prayers of friends like her- and you- to get me there and home safely.

God bless.

This WFMW post is amazing..

2009-07-15T12:55:00.003-04:00

As some of you know, my friend and her children were involved in a very serious carr accident last week....Her sister has set up a blog to follow all the stpes of recovery, and to keep people posted during this long and painful time for both Jenny her daughters and her family.
I only hope that through prayer and all the virtues God has granted us, Jenny can find her way through the next few months, and that her faith is unfailing. Please visit often an dpray frequently we can change the world one prayer at a time!

This WFMW post is very dear to my heart because I have been praying for the Laird family pretty much non stop and its exausting! So here are some tips on praying for something that will help you to remember and to continuously pray....

!- set a reminder on your cell phone- you can pray in less than 30 seconds or for hours- you choose- just do it everyday...
2 pray while brushing teeth...
3-pray for 3 cycles of the snooze on your alarm- then you do not even get the chance to doze off!
4. pray while doing dishes
5- pray while driving- KEEP YOUR EYES OPEN :)
6- pray when gardening- I get a lot of gardening done, cause this is my favorite time and place to pray- I go to my real garden a lot- there for I pray a lot...I garden, therefore I pray?!?!

Thank you all so much for your support and thoughts.... I will get back on the blog wagon soon I promise...just working some stuff out.....

Im Not Lost.....

2009-07-13T09:40:00.002-04:00

im not lost....i promise....:)

i have had such a busy 2 weeks- I was very blog neglectful last week.....Im really sorry.....

I missed you all! I really am glad to be back...and I m fixing my uploading problem SOON!

I will post more later- after I catchup on some blog reading....:)

I need you to pray....

2009-07-10T09:15:00.002-04:00

A family I know that is dear to my heart..........

My friend Jenny hit a car head on yesterday.........she had all 3 of her girls in the car....and they were trapped for some time........

There are numerous broken bones on Jenny- ribs, both legs femur, facial bones.....

Her girls are at a different hospital, and 2 of them seem to be ok....one of them has a cracked skull and bleeding on the brain.......

My friend and her family need everyone sprayers today, so please feel free to link this post to yours so everyone can see it.....

I am praying and fasting all day......

Please pray for the Lairds and the Creamers......

Thank you

July 4th

2009-07-03T22:31:00.001-04:00

is this image awesome or what??

July 4th....

Fireworks......
BBQ's...
Family...
Friends....
Fun.....

Or how about.......

Loneliness....
Quiet.....
Anxiety......
Exaustion.....
Dirty.....

I think a lot about our military...having boys rally interested does that to a mom. Having family involved, friends, and even watching my friend die after a long illness, and seeing his entire unit stand at attention during his funeral were wake up calls for me.

I LOVE our men and women who serve. They deserve so much more gratitude. They keep our constitution meaning something.

And they remind me that with great sacrifice comes great reward......
With great responsibility comes great trial.......
and with great faith comes great hope.........

There is a song Watch The Lamb , sung by Ray Boltz.....
.get it......
Listen to it.....
remember it......
its about the greatest sacrifice, the greatest hope and the greatest reward....

Dont let the 4th slip away without a prayer of thanksgiving for all we have.
Because when its all said and done....we arent the ones who earned it.

God Bless us ALL. America and Otherwise.....

Happy Independence Day.

VGNO

2009-07-03T22:00:00.002-04:00

OOOH! Virtual Girls Night Out~
My favorite time of the week!

Take a few and read ANN's post- and enjoy our weekly blog hopping session of all fun all night(weekend) long!

(so insert logo here everytime you see this its a pic i took that wouldnt load....)
So today I worked my butt off! Had a yard sale this weekend- got one more morning to go....saving for the patio cover we are putting on...more about that in a future post...

(yard sale pic here)

Taught the kids why it is so important NOT to play with matches....for those of you who read me regularly- I promise Im not a PYRO! I just get bored and fire is entertaining.....

( old love seat engulfed in flames here)

I also learned why I really need to get a radio for outside that will pick up am......I left the truck key on while listening to the REDS play and the battery dies in the 7th inning.....then the reds got killed......( is that my fault? maybe!)

(stupid truck here)

Then after I tried to upload my images on here, I realized why they take forever- cause they are soo big cause someone messed wtih my camera...LOVELY!

( pic of Mackenzie messing here)

And last but not least, my "big kids" came home from their Christian Youth COnvention and were very tired...but glad to be home..we missed them much and I feel like my family is whole again, so now its time to blog hop and visit everyone.....I LOVE HIS PART!!!!

(pc of tired kiddos here)

So go enjoy yourself and dont forget to comment! Everyone wants to know you are reading their post- even if its just a hello!

And everyone order a KUSH SUpport....lol.... I ordered bra's from a friend today who gets a significant discount for a lingerie company- they are for my daughter and only THE SAME CUP SIZE AS ME.!!! AHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!

(seriously I wanted a pic of the two of us camparing but no one would take it for me)

Im there...in that place where Im thinking about a boob job instead of a patio......

For drinks tonight I had my old standby- a very full glass of strawberry/kiwi wine...sweet and cold..yummmmm

Then I toasted marshmallows....for dinner....yummmy... :)

Then I came in and saw my NEW MJ SHIRT and started laughing that i spent $10 bucks on a shirt for a dead guy........YIKES...Ive lost my mind!!

I will have a special July 4th post tomorrow.....a reflection... so look for it..... wont you please?

HAPPY VGNO!

WFMW

2009-07-01T09:30:00.004-04:00

So, for todays WFMW post.....I was going to say my favorite 4th of July recipe is CHIPOTLE, but I figured that is cheating. But at least Im honest....

I guess the one thing we continue to return to year after year are foil meals over the fire....they are fast, filling and we like to cook over the fire, so they are right up our alley!

Foil meals are meat and veggies cooked in a homemade foil packet lined with cabbage and a slice of onion -( to keep it from sticking) We also put italian salad dressing in ours to give them a unique flavor....but you can use creamy soup if you want...

We layer a frozen hamburger or chicken breast, on top of a leaf of cabbage, big slice of onion, then cover it in canned potatoes, carrots green beans, corn, whatever veggies you like....wrap in two layers heavy duty foil and throw in the coals of a hot fire....these can be done on the grill too, and taste just as good!

You can smell the meat cooking and thats when you check for doneness....using a meat thermometor is a good idea for the chicken, because any marinade you put in these can change the color/look of the meat....so be sure its done!

These are soo good, and mostly we open them and "trade" veggies before we eat so everyone has what they like......to put your name on yours, before cooking, use a squeeze bottle of mustard- it cooks on and leaves your initials behind....:)

For dessert....we cook "turtle pie" again over the fire....these are soo good! But they require a piece of equipment you can anywhere camping gear is sold.... It called a "pie iron" and they aremade in a variety of shapes and sizes- we use the single asquare for ours....
All you do is spray the iron with non stick cooking spray, then line it with crescent roll dough- fill with chocolate chips, pecans and caramel squares....add anothe crescent roll on top and seal....make sure tis clipped and both sides are sprayed well with the cooking spray!You cook over the fire like cooking smores- the irons get HOT HOT HOT! So, a welding clove is a useful thing to have around......

To empty, just open and dump onto a cookie sheet- LET COOL FOR A MINUTE, as the inside is HOT SUGAR and can really burn a little or big- hand or mouth....

these are scrumtious, and Im cant wait to got o the store and get my stuff to make them!

You can make these in the oven, on a cookie sheet, just make sure to pinch the corners and edges shut on the crescent rolls.......they poof up nicely!

Also for some grilling safety tips, i saw a story everyone needs to read ! You can go HERE !
These are important safety tips every family should read.....very important!

Happy 4th Everyone! May your celebrations be safe and happy!

an award!

2009-06-30T12:59:00.003-04:00

So my good pal ALI awarded me my second award of all time! So I am participating in this award to tell you all a little about me.....

The honest scrap award comes with a caveat or two. First, you have to tell your readers 10 things about you they may not already know, but are true. Second, you have to tag 10 people with the award. Third, you have to let the people you've given the award to, know that they've received this award from you. Finally, make sure you link back to the person who awarded you.

1. Im a complete and total unorganized mess! clutter surrounds me and when I try to fix it, it gets worse...No amount of books etc can help me- Im hopeless!

2. I had lasik a few years ago, but Im about ready for glasses again...argh..

3. I have chosen a path which does not include most of my family- cousins etc.....Its too painful to watch their drama and to see them tear each other apart. And I do not want myu kids to thinks family is like that.

4. I LOVE to eat peanutbutter also..it is a problem, as I cannot lose wieght.. on spoons, in pie, on a sandwich did i say on spoons?

5. i think Im chubby- and it makes me crazy. I look in the mirror and think ewwwww...how did i end up like this? then i get some peanut butter to make me feel better.

6. I do not always speak my mind when I should- its not good for me, but I dont like to stir the pot. However, if i did speak my mind i prolly would deal better with my emotions, instead of holding it in and then exploding on unsuspecting people...

7. I secretly want another baby...OOPS secrets out now~!!

8. My first kiss was AWFUL!! I punched him. :)

9. Im kinda lazy. - i just cover it up by over booking and over doing. Id much rather lay on the couch and eat bon bons all day and tell a maid what to do while the Guiding light is on...

10. I have a rental house I want to desperately get rid of- It sucks us dry, and I just cant handle it anymore....

Now for those 10....HMMMM

1. MOM TAXI
2. My Fav Farm
3. JAM..
4. HHHF
5.Ann
6. ALI
7.Diary of a Stay at Home Mom
8. A Homegrown Life
9.A Day in the Life
10.Lily of the Valley

LONGABERGER GIVEAWAY!!!!

2009-06-30T09:57:00.002-04:00

wow go see AMY and enter to win this AWESOME Basket! They are soo onice! GOOD LUCK!

Menu Plan Monday

2009-06-29T10:07:00.003-04:00

So I am new to this post and I am so excited! I used to plan every meal and snack, and I got away from it for a bit, so today Im starting all over....any suggestions would be helpful...

This is sandwich week.... everything we eat will be in sandwich form, except Tuesday...
We try to do some kind of theme so the kids come up with good ideas- like a few years ago they created spaghetti sandwiches...YUM! leftover spaghetti is good anyway, but on a piece of buttered bread is even better.....and cheap!

Monday- bbq pulled beef, with sliced tomatoes and home made potato chips

Tues- Baked spaghetti , home made bread- ( sorta) green beans

Weds- teriyaki pork loin sandwiches, some kind of pasta salad, roasted peppers

Thurs- Pulled creamed chicken sandwiches, mashed potatos and corn

Fri= steak hoagies from pizza place...YUMMMM

Sat- free for all holiday food

Sunday- crock pot surprise....

I have a couple of crock pot recipes posted on my blog here Just look under crock pot in the labels........

Until next week........

VGNO_ FINALLY!!!!!

2009-06-26T14:35:00.006-04:00

So for VGNO I am celebrating as well! Hope you can hop over to ANN"S Place Its full of fun and fine entertainment- along with some awesome drinks etc...for all us bloggers!

This is the official 24 hour countdown to when HUBBY comes home! He has been at scout camp with the boys for a week! It was cold, then hot then rainy.....today seems to be perfect for them, although I did get a request for good food when they return....

Today I recovered fully from a killer headache, and I finished my post about my adorable son- Mackenzie- who was the only one home this week aside from me!

My Hubby and I met in high school- we were on agian off agian sweethearts, but when he enlisted and was far from me I couldnt take it! We got married shortly after I graduated, and the rest is history! We are looking forward to taking a nice getaway for our 20th- coming up in 3 years! I am always celebrating our marriage because we are always about each other- and that is what makes our lives together so special! Plus he is really cute, so why not?

I was saddened by the death of the "king of Pop" this week, so Im attaching a tribute to him and his bad self.......I cant help it- everything about this music makes me want to dance......and I think i still have a white glove somewhere....

So tonight I will travel to Boy scout camp with my Thriller cd blaring.....Im such an 80's gal!
And I might make my kids watch the videos on tv...there are a lot of them!

On the menu Im having a glass of strwberry-kiwi wine, with the famous tomato and mozzeralla salad- yummmm so good I can almost taste it! Everything in the garden is moving along as it should and mor....Hopefully we can start canning in a couple weeks...tomatoes will be ready!

Hope everyone has a great night, and enjoy this weeks VGNO!!

WFMW

2009-06-24T10:58:00.003-04:00

As most of you know, Im having trouble with uploading and downloading...commenting etc.... One of you suggested I use Firefox as my web browser...I did and it really is working for me! Thanks to whomever it was that suggested it! Its a little faster than IE and I can comment , email, post pics etc...without getting my entire desktop shut down ! Thank Thank Thank you!

I wanted to share a fun activity we do around here when its hot- like today...
we "slip and tarp" We bought a huge tarp- for around $30, and stake it down in the yard...then we spray it with water and go to work! Its much more effective than the traditional toy, lasts much longer and is larger for bigger kids...like my husband....:)

We like to play on it together, and the dogs even jump through a couple times...they dont like the slippping part, but they like the water.

When the kids were little, we'd put bubble bath on it from the dollar store- then they'd be clean when they came in the house- I know cheating....but it worked!

We love our big ole tarp...and I hope you will all try it...its so fun....and a little more cost effective because of its durability.

As soon as I get ours out i will post pics on my site....Mackenzie is ready for it today!!!

w

Today is .....

2009-06-23T11:47:00.004-04:00

Tuesday. Today is Tuesday, right? Im having a bit of trouble concentrating on my work because I am thinking about a lot of things. Like my get-out of debt plan. Which isn't going nearly as fast as I like. And like the Jon and Kate misery. Im so disappointed in this entire situation. I mean, really. First I see people slamming them for the decisions they have made to do the show, then I see the blame starting..Jon had an affair, Kates a b*&%#.....to him. References to his 'bodyparts" being in her control, references to her being not very nice and him being a pushover.

COME ON PEOPLE!
Korea has a MISSLE aimed at HAWAII!!
IRAN is in yet another conflict that we are policing!
Kids in our nation have no food for dinner tonight!
There are JOBLESS parents going through circumstances that are OUT OF THEIR CONTROL!
I am sorry about Jon and Kate. I hate to see any marraige fail. But if they do not even want to try, then why should I be worried about it? It strikes me as so funny that those of us who will never have the opportunity to create a show about our family have the nerve to judge them at all! Not one of you can say you wouldnt have made some of the same decisions they did, when they were jobless with 6 new borns and a set of twins.....They did what they thought was the right thing to do in providing for their children.
Im not going to say Kate is perfect, and laid back(she is controlling, but she knows!) And if Jon had an affair, thats between him and God at this point. ( we will never know the truth, we arent him) I just see a lot of people getting high and mighty over something that deosnt impact them! Is anyone worried that in the entire show, not once was God mentioned? Not even the church they belong to or the faith they have/dnt have? Seems to me that in making the decisions to support their large family, and do the right thing by thier kids, they got lost- so now everyone gets to judge them and flog them for it? I think Im just irritated that yes they "put themselves out there" but even celebrities have the right to privacy. Maybe if we all butt out they will be able to focus more on their family, and each other. Maybe not. But dont they at least get the chance?

Ok so my ranting is over for now- about that.....Ive been out of the blogsphere for a few- had a lot to do. gOT THE KITCHEN PAINTED.. WAHOOO! So excited to get that done...cant tell you! I love freshly painted walls and the new clean look of it all...nice very nice.....

I miss being bale to comment- and I had a blog comment about firefox? Ill be making that switch this week- thanks to whomever mentioned it- cant believe i didnt think of it before!
I miss Ali- I need to go see her...and I need to get back to work...THanks for letting me rant!
John isnt home this week so I needed someone to yell at over this...LOL

Glad to be back!
Have a great week.
Ill have something awesome for tomorrows WFMW...I promise...:)

just so everyone knows- Im not a horrible yelling person. Im just frustrated over a lot of things and im hoping to vent on here without hurting nayones feelings or upsetting you. I treasure each opinion you all have, and even if I dont agree, I want to hear from you all!

*****addendum to previous post*****

As an additional thought- I hate Kates hair. I think its ridiculous..looks like one of the kids cut it with play doh scissors. But its her hair- if she wants to look ridiculous, then ok. Personally I think she needs to get back to basics, as a lot of women do, Im not giving fashion advice, Im just sayin- who looks like that with 8 kids? Only on television. :)

VGNO ...WAHOOOO

2009-06-19T21:34:00.004-04:00

Tonight we celebrate Virtual Girls Night Out- VGNO at Ann's place...
Hop on over and check it out! She' s got a cool drink that will make you chill! I know it is super hot in parts of our country, so in honor of all the heat, Im treating myself to a cold Smirnoff grape.....mmmmm GRAPE! Who knew my fav flavor as a kid could be tranformed into a beverage for me as an adult? YUMMY!! The pmegranite is fab too, for those of you who might like to try!

Tonight Im a little late joining in- my prince took me on his white horse( or f-150) to a nice dinner- steak at TGIFridays...ummmm that Jack Daniels menu is hard to pass up! And WE HAD A COUPON! buy one entree- get one free! So I splurged for the artichoke dip and it was DIVINE!!!

Thanks to the nice gentleman who gave us the coupon on his way out the door! Very cool!

For those of you who haven't already, ALi posted a very nice tribute to her mother this week- go here to see it....It will make the strongest heart cry tears of - well I just cried so...there....thats progress for me!

And- the REDS are playing right now- and winning! GO REDS!

aRGH THIS SLOW DIAL UP! No pics tonight im afraid...

Next week I need all my bloggie friends to keep in touch- I will be running solo with only one child at home- everyone else will be at camp.......for 7 entire days...

I will be missing them, but Im hoping to get the kitchen painted...:)

So now Im off to the chicken coop to shut everyone up for the night...little late, but ok....and I will be back to blog hop in a bit!!!

ps....for those of you who have never heard me say this before- Raising kids is like being pecked to death by chickens.....HA HA

Cause right now there are 4 conversations going on behind me and i have no clue what they are- Im in the blogosphere......:) :) :)

And a tornado watch...and a flood watch........going to be an interesting evening....

LUV YOU GUYS!!!!!!
Happy VGNO!!!!!!

aAHHHHHH!!! I am so sorry I cannot comment much- my dial up and my explorer issues are making it very difficult- pages wont load, comments wont load...argh...I have read them alllllll!!!!

I just cant comment! Im so sorry! I need a better connection!

This is Love

2009-06-16T11:33:00.004-04:00

There are few things in this world that are pure....and finding them is such a blessing! Let me introduce all of you to my very close friends- Doug and Amy. Doug and amy are two very special people to my family- Our history goes way back- Her parents and my parents were very close friends. I spent a lot of time as a teen babysiting her, and she returned the favor when I had children of my own....

A couple years ago, I got a very surprising call from Amy. Through much prayer and consideration, and struggle, they decided to sell everything they had and move to Haiti...to run and host the missionary teams that come in to work for the mission they were associated with. I have to admit, though I was tearful at the prospect of my friends moving sooooo far away, I was so happy for them, I decided to be supportive and love them no matter where in the world they ended up.

Well, here we are, they have lived in Haiti for a year, and oh what the Good Lord has done! Not only have they been blessed with an unexpected pregnancy, but they also started adoption proceedings for a child in Haiti!

I am so proud of these two my heart could just burst! We love them so much and though it is hard to be so far away....I couldnt be happier for them!
We are praying everyday for them, and we are so excited for their expanding family....baby is due in August, and their adoption proceedings are slow for Dor...but through prayer and persistance, faith and hope. and tons of patience, here we are. I hope you enjoy the photos, and here is their blog with monthly updates on the progress... of their lives and their mission.......

VGNO

2009-06-12T17:01:00.005-04:00

So for tonights VGNO I have already been to ANNS PLACE- go check it out! She's got a cool cocktaila nd a fun game......Im Sassy Sue too- and guess what? I have always wanted a pink ladies jacket- and I love the movie Grease- WOO_HOOOO is John Travolta hot or what?

I love Friday- its been another long week, and Im ready for some fun!

Chicken -Blackbean quesadillas and diet coke are on the diner menu- as I am spending the rest of the evening with the fam - at the drive in!

Had a great give-away last week- TAMIS was our winner of the Chicken feeder lamp- It is leaving in the morning! I am so excited to be able to share this with a friend I met in this blogosphere!

I am in LOVE with the chickens! they are getting sooo big and so clucky! I will post some pics this weekend when I get on a better connection...argh!

Everyone have a great VGNO- and enjoy your weekend! And if I survive the drive in I will check in tomorrow morning for new news and more blog hopping!

My sis AMANDA has a lot of cool stuff to say,

And could use some encouragement! She has a small blog and is new to the neighborhood.....Im hoping she gets some of her AMAZING photography posted soon- she is a genius behind the camera!!!

I almost for got- HUGE THANKS to ALI !

She stayed up late Weds night to help me improve my blog- so the layout is new and I can spend some time tweaking it this weekend! THANKS ALI!!!!!!! Come check it out!!!!

Also there is a link at the very bottom to my friend who makes amazing quilts!

Go visit her and check out her stuff!!!!!!! She is awesome!!!!

Now im going to get ready for the drive in- I bought cheap drive in candy in "movie boxes" at Wally World today, and have a cooler full of drinks.....should be fun! Just how am i going to get my microwave in my car to make popcorn?!?!

:) :) :) :) :)

HAPPY VGNO!!!!!

THANKFUL THURSDAY

2009-06-11T08:56:00.001-04:00

I am thankful for ALI who has been my friend when I didnt deserve it, and is as tough as nails.....

I am thankful for Amanda who is my fav sister....lol my only sister....

I am thankful for ALL my blog friends- esp my followers- Ive been told to stop talking and start listening, so its easier now that I can talk to all of you about something and nothing.....gives me time to listen to everyone else......

THANK YOU ALL!!

It means the world to me to be able to write and chat and comment and post and look at pics and all we do here...this has been great therapy and why cant i get paid lots to do it? lol One of these days......:)

Have a great thursday.......luv you all.

WORDLESS WEDNESDAY

2009-06-10T10:00:00.004-04:00

This is what happens when MOM works too late one day.......

My lovely boys.

GIVEAWAY WINNER...AND SOME REALLY DEPRESSING STUFF...

2009-06-08T15:22:00.004-04:00

So after writing everyones name down and picking out of a hat ( shoulda used a chicken feeder...) I finally came up with a winner of the adorable chicken lamp! I have to say, I was really having a good time with this...until mr linky got all grumpy and I didnt quite get the response I was expecting....maybe its the lamp??? NAH !!

So Congrats to Tamis........may your husband be satisfied with a lamp....but somehow I think he is really gonna want those chickens....Its ok...I wanted mine and finally got them...I LOVE THEM! Sure they are smelly sometimes, but they are nice pets, and will produce eggs for myself and Ali and our families so...Im ok with it......And they aren't as noisy as I thought they'd be, please visit my blog and check out my CHICKEN JOURNALS.......there is only one so far, but they will be comng fast and furious now that they are in the barn....and maybe you will grow to appreciate them a bit, for your hubbys sake?!

Yes I said the chickies are in the barn......they are all locked up- we have a fox issue now ya know.....and cute as can be! They even ROOST on a tiny roost Mackenzie made for them...its soo cute! They have even been seen scratching and pecking a bit...and trying out their wings.....really cute.....

I just want to share some emotional baggage I have apparantly been carrying around for a long time and didnt know it- until I realized how easily angered I am these days. I actually threw a Dr Pepper 2 liter across the yard yesterday because it exploded for no good reason all over my kitchen- sticky mess! I think I recall saying words I havent said in a LONG TIME also. Scared myself half silly thinking about it later. I ended up crying in my bedroom, folding a mountain of laundry, wondering if even God himself could hear my hurt....It was awful. I noticed later that not one person came to check on me- I must've made quite an impression. My hubby says as long as he knows where I am and he can hear me cry, he knows its going to be ok, and I just need time.

Well, I took my time and screamed on the inside, as I sobbed, asking why to a whole lot of questions. Like why is it so hard for me to get everything done? Why is it that my kids are disrespectful? Why do I never seem to have enough $$, no matter how hard I try to be soo frugal? Why am I so nervous about working from home all summer while the kids are out of school? Why do I feel alone so much, when I am always surrounded by soo many? Why do I have trouble keeping my anger in check, especially when it comes to the way others treat my children? I look at this as some kind of test - I know God never gives you anything you cant handle, but Im feeling like its ENOUGH ALREADY!!!
I even yelled at a cat this weekend. A cat. Who could care less about anything. I think I yelled at the washer too. ( i need more help than i realized) LOL
Is it depression I wonder? My dr says so....she thinks I need "something" to take the edge off.... Is this common? Im desperatly wanting to know because I want to be ok, and normal again...if there is such a thing. I havent been really happy for quite a long time, and its is lonely at the top. I say top because I am so hi strung now that Im having a hard time comin down.....Maybe I need a real VGNO...lol Or something.

Is anybody out there? at all? argh.

Give Away!!!

2009-06-05T17:44:00.000-04:00

CHECK THIS OUT!!!!!

Ali and I are hosting our very first giveaway!

We wanted it to be very cool and from the heart...soo...

Here is a cute chicken feeder light!

I made this light with my own two hands- inspired by the recent purchase of the baby chicks and the farm I am living on.....

It has a switch, so it can stay plugged in. It doesnt get hot if you leave it on too long...and its FREE!!

To win this lamp, there are some ***RULES*** to follow.....

first- you have to live in the US- have to ship this baby within the US

second- you have to leave a comment on my post and make sure to leave your email if its not on your profile.....

third- we will draw for the winner on Monday Morning- so no comments posted after midnight on Sunday will be accepted.

SOOO I hope you will all enter, and I hope our winner enjoys this lamp!

VGNO

2009-06-05T12:04:00.003-04:00

Have you ever gotten an email that stopped your world from spinning? I got one today- and it prompted me to add a link to my blog- please go visit it ASAP.

I like having the opportunity to make a difference in someones life, and I think God just plopped this one right into my lap....

This link took my breath away, so I had to get it off my chest so I can continue working.....It is about a little girl who's parents I grew up wiht. I feel so GUILTY for not knowing this was happening! Am I so wrapped up in my own bubble that I am that oblivious? GEEZ! I cried out of greif for her parents- not that they should be grieving, but that I cannot imagine feeling sooo helpless. I have a child with an attitude problem. But he is the same child who fixed me lunch today, so I cannot complain. I just want to introduce this link to all of you, because I know if you cannot give, you can pray- and you will..Thank You!

Now, For VGNO I am headed over to ALI"S to see what kind of damage we can do on our GIVE AWAY!! iM SO EXCITED TO BE ABLE TO SHARE SOMETHING OF MYSELF WITH ALL OF YOU EACH WEEK, AND IT MEANS THE WORLD TO ME THAT i AM NOT THE ONLY PUZZLED WOMAN OUT THERE!

Sorry, didnt mean to yell- Im a little excited! My lunch was fixed today my a handsome young man- (my son) He is out of school today due to a poison ivy issue- I will be explaining that in a minute......

so he fixed me chicken quesadillas- and they were yummy!

He also MADE ( lol) me eat chile cheese fritos....

and a diet coke

So there is my VGNO lunch ....kinda nice to have a personal chef......

So for tonights VGNO I think Im going to go get some Smirnoff Grape- YUMMY! Im not a big drinker, but a snazzie grape or pomegranite malt bev will do the trick on occassion...Im a lightweight what can I say?

So yesterday Ali came over so we could go to CHIPOTLE for lunch- yummmmy- and she saw a momma fox and her 2 babies - in my drain tile outside my house....So, being the animal and wildlife lover I am, I laid in the ditch for the entire evening until I could capture a pic of the momma and her little ones- I was so close to her I could hear her breathing. ( I was in a hunting blind, but truthfully I was terrified) I do not recommend getting this close to any wildlife- unless you are trained or nuts. Im both , so I got close and took a few very quiet pics of her- it was duskso I am hoping you can see her.....I am hoping to get pics of her and the babies too, before she gets tired of us and moves them....:(

That is also how my son got poison ivy. LOL very funny, but he says it was worth it. sooo...I will let him be the judge.

So my pics wont load and i cant get high speed ( or any speed) internet....:(

And the drive in awaits....

handsome hubby

2009-06-03T17:42:00.003-04:00

My very handsome hubby has always been so good to me! We met in high school, and it was quite accidental. Once we became good friends, it was hard for anything to come between us. We didn't date all through high school- there were other girls for him and guys for me, but we kept coming back to each other... finally on Sept 12, 1992 that circle was closed with our vows....

I feel like we have been married all our lives, and its funny how we are inseperable, even now. We stick together through thick and thin, and he is always there when I need him. ALWAYS.

This little tribute to my handsome hubby is just a small gesture- a way to honor and say thanks for working so hard for our family all this time, and very rarely doing anything for yourself.

Love you honey!

My Fav Things...

2009-06-03T17:24:00.006-04:00

Ha, so NO I didnt take this one...but a girl can dream, RIGHT?
I did take this one- of my precious ladybugs I raised

I think my flamingo needs re painted....

This lavendar is monstrous- and its not done yet!

i have no clue what this is- I forget what I planted...surprise!

What a nice HOSTA

Poor Japanese maple mini! Been through a long tough winter....

CHIVES are YUMMY!

This crazy bush is pretty- but grows funny!

I think this is a COREOPSIS

I do not know what this is- but it s cute by the toad house...

Zebra grass at its start...

Some kind of daisy

More Coreopsis

Very random rosebush.....

I love my garden, the changing seasons of each plant, the pretty colors and the smell of the earth beneath it all.

It is beautiful.

WFMW

2009-06-03T09:00:00.003-04:00

WOW! There are jets flying overhead doing manuvers from the Air National Guard Base. Its amazing to watch them, and its patriotic too! I always feel so proud when I see them- a big reminder of the freedoms and sacrifices made everyday for me!

So this week, in keeping with the theme, I am planning to make a refridgerator list of things my kids want to do this summer, along with some ideas I have for them. I work from home, and its going to be the first summer doing so,, I need to have a gameplan. I already hear "IM BORED" a million times after school. Im taking pics of bikes, squirt guns, water balloons, our home made water slide- I will post pics of it the next time it is out- and I am taking pics of everything else they can go do in a week without leaving this house. When I hear IM BORED, im referring the little bundles of joy to the fridge- where they can get a snack, and an activity....all in one swoop!

Im not sure how well this is going to work, but im doing it as a surprise, so it has some sense of novelty to it. Im also putting "pudding paint" on the list. Sounds crazy, cause I have no kids under 10, but you'd be surprised at how much fun painting on the picnic table can be- with pudding! If you use plastic sheeting for tablecloth- all you have to do is spray it- and the kids - with a hose- its sooo easy. and edible. and kinda messy but thats what kids are for,right?

When I have let this idea run its course, I will be adding a new one- Im just hoping I have time in between to think of a new strategy! With the camp and work schedules in our house, we should be pretty busy but only at 1/2 capacity most days.....

Im excited to add to my kids recipe collection as well....

This year my son is into making ice cubes from his favorite drinks, so his drink isnt watered down- (he offered to do this with my apple wine).....He makes ice cubes from tea, kool aid, lemonaid...etc..... It was really funny the day he mixed them up and put the wrong ones in the wrong drink. He was sooo mad he dumped them all and started over before I could stop him. ( they were ruined)

I even have seen him experiment and put fruit into the ice cubes- They turn out really pretty and they taste good, and he is getting some kitchen experience.

Im all outta time, so have a good WFMW everyone!!

VGNO

2009-05-29T13:40:00.005-04:00

So once again its time for the VGNO
Been waiting all week for this day!

Here is the game of the night- my girl will love this!!
Complements to ANN for a cool game.....

"Modern Barbie"
Use the chart to find which Barbie you are.
Use the letter of your first name.

A - D = Sunscreen Barbie

E - H = Lactose Intolerate Barbie

I - L = Migraine Barbie

M - P = Blogger Barbie

Q - T = Mini Van Barbie

U - Z = Bi-Polar Barbie

Now, which Barbie are you? If you need to tweak this a bit, have fun!

Kinda funny I am "Sunscreen Barbie" considering this...
LOL

So I have pics of last weeks VGNO with the JR High Girls....

My girl is the one on the right......

And now she is on the left........

They had a great time, but didn't take any pics in the dance- prolly for fear Id share them with the world.....lol

I also have a pic of my FABULOUS and FAVORITE lunch.....perfect for VGNO!

Tomato mozzarella salad,....soooooo easy......

I just slice a tomato, slice some packaged REAL mozzarella cheese, and top it with balsalmic vinegar......
A friend uses italian dressing, another friend uses apple cider vinegar......

I sometimes put spinach with it, sometimes a greens salad mix....today I just added some cilantro......YUM!
Plus I think its pretty in an old dish......usually the cxheese is round, but I found some in a "block" that was really good.......

Since I am not super blog savvy - I can tell you Im wishing you all a cool tune...however- I have NO CLUE how to add one on here...so you can sing the song inyour head-

-8-6-7-5-3-0-9-

Have no idea the name or who sings it, but Ive been humming it all day. (honestly I tried to put my own number in, but it sounds all wrong...)

Watch for a post when Ali and I pull something out of our sleeve......WAHOOO

going to be fun!

One last pic from my week...you can check out my link here
about my very funny phone drama/trauma.......You wont believe the pic!

I am soooo glad it is FRIDAY!!!!

Thanks to all of you who read and react to my blog.....I will be adding a recipe section and a farm life section.......soon.........I hope....Ali.....hint hint....

Hope I survive the nephew's birthday campout..... His mom has a blog too.. she is a photographer- you can find her here

SHE IS AMAZING! its like having the sister I never had......

Hope your VGNO is fabulous........

HAPPY FRIDAY TO ALL.....now- I need to get a blender..............

Thankful THursday

2009-05-28T12:57:00.002-04:00

I am sooooo glad it is raining!! its refreshing to have all the dust settle and all the birds singing and flitting about!

I am thankful for Ali !
She is a really good pal!

I am thankful my dogs havent tried to munch on any of the babies yet...but I guess time will tell..... ( chickens) I guess if they had an offical guardian the dogs are it- for the time being.

And I am thankful for God and all his blessings!!

2009-05-27T19:38:00.002-04:00

So I am trying to remember when I started driving how much gas was? I took this pic at the COSI museum...It was food for thought. .25 per gallon sounds great to me!

This is my "baby" - Mike- he is an amazing archer! Lat year at Boy Scout camp- he held the record- the entire summer- for his archery score! This year I think he will be running a range for the younger Cubs.....He should- he is great at this. He shoots rifles like this too....I will be posting a sequence of pics of his archery skills soon- its amazing to me that a child who is so mouthy- lol- can be so quiet and content to focus and do this......he is AWESOME!!!

This is a pic my son Mackenzie took- he is an aspiring photographer- as long as it is on the subject of animals or the inside of his mouth- for whatever reason. He calls this our "jungle cat" She is actually in our backyard- he just had to lay on his belly to take it.

This is Lady- guardian of baby chicks extrordinaire....she lays here all day by their side, watching them and whimpering. She does this with kittens too!

This is TInkerbell, my puppy! No really, she is only 16b months old- she just weighs 145lbs and thank God doesnt jump on anobody! She is a full blooded St Bernard and aindeed a gentle giant. She is soo good, and yes both dogs live in the house- they think they are people so.......If im not mistaken- I think she posed for this picture.....

I just wanted to share some randomness with you and give you a sneak peek into our lives, here on the farm.........

2009-05-27T19:33:00.003-04:00

This is the baby chick "stripe" he/she is bonding with my hubby quite well....lol

My niece thinks the "fuzzy" ones are the best- wait til she figures out they dont stay fuzzy long!

This is my little chicken man- Mackenzie- he is soooo good with animals- he really has a heart for them. He takes care of them all- the dogs, cats, chickens and our turtle. He wants a goat, but we are trying to add things to our place one at a time, and it was the chickens turn......

He is 10 and has a heart of gold. He likes to ride his bike and play in the dirt with mom :) I love his excitement about the outdoors, and I love it that he isnt afraid of trying new things. He still likes to cuddle on the couch, and he plays in the rain like its the best thing in the world.
Mackenzie used to want everyone to call him Maxx, due to seeing the movie "Max Keebles big move" about a thousand times when he was little.
He asked me to home school him a few weeks ago! I guess the allure of mom working from home is too much for him- he wants to be here all the time.
I love it that my youngest is still my baby, and that he is still so innocent !
He talks a lot about the bible, and wants to know why God did all the things he did- but he asks one thing at a time.....Its truly exausting, but I wouldnt change a thing.

METAMORPHISIS

Counting Down

Thursday Thought

Another Day

Just...let...It...Go....*sigh*

Doing What It Takes

A Little Thought About Friendship

7-17-2011

Christmas Gifts

Finally Friday

PROVERBS 31 WOMAN

IS THIS YEAR OVER YET?!

INLAWS- enough said Im sure...

EGGS

no more accounting...:)

Wednesday isnt for wimps!

feels good to write

TUESDAY IS MONDAY- RIGHT?

Its Been A While...

VGNO

VGNO

VGNO

AVON challenges

VGNO

GIVEAWAY!!!

check out our new blog too...:)

GOOD MORNING!

My Choice

VGNO

VGNO

VGNO

Kids say the DARNDEST things....

Family Blessings

VGNO

Find Me Friday

HARVEST BLESSINGS

VGNO

Freaky Friday

Freaky Friday

Monday...and How I surprised myself...

VGNO

My rules of friendship...:)

VGNO

CORA..

WFMW

TUESDAYS PRAYER

OOH LAST MINUTE FOR THIS GIVEAWAY!

VGNO- REVISED.....

WHERES MY MONEY?

THE BIRD

Who ARE you?

WFMW

School Lunches

WE HAVE A WINNER!!!!!!

Thankful THursday

check this out!!!!!

Find Me Friday

VGNO_ FINALLY!!!!!

Thankful THursday

WFMW

OOOH I LOVE NEW FOLLOWERS!

family reunion

midnight birthday..

VGNO_ FINALLY!!!!!

My Tink

WFMW

what a wonderful weekend....

WHERES MY MONEY?

WFMW

farm life...i love it!!

Thankful THursday

WFMW

out of the country I go......

Thankful THursday

This WFMW post is amazing..

Im Not Lost.....

I need you to pray....

July 4th

VGNO

WFMW

Just...let...It...Go....sigh