Enjoying the Ride!

Menu Planning Monday

2012-02-13T05:34:00.001-08:00

Can you believe that we are half way through February? It is going SO quickly. I so frequently look at my schedule and try to find even an extra 30 minutes and find it difficult most days! I can tell you having my menu all planned out, does help with finding extra time to accomplish extra tasks and plan fun filled moments with the kids. It is almost sad that I am racing to fit in fun moments but it seems as if everything is a race anymore, race to get the best deal, race to be the first one to apply for time off, etc. One of these days I won't be racing to things and we can sit and just be!
We have officially decided to list the house this summer, with that being said, I am going to be emptying my pantry to the best ability along with our freezer and planning easy meals so we can accomplish as much in the basement and around our house as well~ With that being said, this week starts operation clear out!

This weeks Meals:

Monday: Meatloaf with Red Potatoes and Carrots

Tuesday: Italian Chicken with Rice and Green Beans

Wednesday: White Chicken Chili with Focaccia Bread

Thursday: Shrimp Stir Fry

Friday: Salisbury Steak, Mashed Potatoes and Green Beans with Salad

Saturday:

Lunch: Mac and Cheese or Leftovers

Dinner: Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa

Sunday:

Lunch: Hamburgers with Pasta Salad and Fruit (summer anyone?!)

Dinner: Grilled Cheese and Broccoli Cheese Soup

I hope you are blessed beyond measure this week!

Donations for Haiti

2012-02-09T08:13:00.001-08:00

Okay, so after trying to get a chip-in widgit to work for donations, we now are going to use a PayPal link that will go directly to Heartline. So that being said, it is VERY exciting to begin raising much needed funds for Haiti!! The only downfall is that you won't be able to see our progress. I'll see what I can do about updating how much has been raised etc. Please feel free to use the "Donate" button on the side of my page and tell ALL your friends about it!

Thank you for your support and all your prayers as we run for Haiti!

13 miles this week!

2012-02-05T13:19:00.000-08:00

This weeks running schedule has me running a total 13 miles, not all at once mind you but crazy to think that in just 14 weeks I will be running a half marathon for Haiti! I am hoping to have the donations button working on my sidebar this week. I am also hoping that some of you were able to check out some information about Heartline!

This snipit is from Heartline's Blog:

We’ve had a lot of babies born in our program since the start of 2012. Nurse/midwives like Melissa and Sarah, volunteer midwives, and Jen our pediatrician give their abilities and time to be the guardians of safe birth. Why? Why would professionals split their time and energy to spend months at a time here? Because they know it makes a difference. Birth can change everything.

We don’t just birth babies. We birth women. Women who spend over a year in our program and receive the gospel, learn how to exclusively breast feed and keep their babies close, women who learn to child space so they are not giving away babies that they can’t afford. Women who will hopefully have a skill, make money, send their kids to school.

Our maternity program is thug prevention. Agathe, our Haitian co-worker, teaches moms on how to raise their sons! She teaches them how to promote respect for women, respect for others, she teaches them how to model these qualities for their children. She does it by word and example. Always with a baby at her breast Agathe promotes mother/baby bonding and security.

A bonded child who is well loved and knows how to give love back is less likely to shoot others. A child who is not raised in an overcrowded house with not enough to eat is less likely to steal. A child going to school will be doing homework rather than robbery.

That’s why we stay up for a few days at a time helping women through birth. Birth is a tiny fraction of what our program is all about. It’s the prenatal care, the child development classes and the teaching that make the difference. Safe birth is only a day, albeit an important one, in that journey.

We’ve had a lot of boys this month. Boys who have a better chance at being well bonded, secure, well fed, educated and be successful contributors to their country. As I look at Harbor House and see successful teen moms I see that most times providing a map is all a woman needs. She can make the journey, she will take the right routes, all she needed was a guide.

A relationship with Christ, an empowered education on life skills, a chance to make a living can result in a healthy family. We teach women to choose men who will love and stay with their family. They can teach their boys to be those men someday. Save the families, save the country.

Beth McHoul Heartline

(*If you check out their blog you can see a picture of the women with their babies)

(http://johnmchoul.wordpress.com/)

The passion that they have for the women and children of Haiti is driving me to run this marathon! Thank you Lord for transforming me and teaching me to be more like YOU!

As average as I am I am trying to grow and have faith in what I am called to do!

BE BLESSED!!!

Running~

2012-02-02T10:08:00.000-08:00

Here is my two cents today! I need to treat running like a job, keep going and

Enough said right there in the sign, right?! Today not only am I running, but I am supposed to go to a Tone Zone class tonight. I am not feeling the best today, but trying not to complain and stay motivated~

Pain will pass, maybe running will get easier and my quads will stop randomly twitching! lol! All in good timing, praying today ends well~

Have a wonderful day and Be Blessed!

New Beginnings and a Half Marathon

2012-02-01T06:27:00.000-08:00

I have been working out and trying to get in shape, it is not as easy as some make it look! I am not wanting to get in shape for anyone but myself and then for my family. I want to feel better about myself and I want the message my kids see is me taking care of myself. I am finding it increasingly difficult when I tell people about my plan, I am becoming more self-conscious. So if I confess my plans here I can be transparent and kick these voices I hear from time to time. I have the opportunity to be training for something specific, not just getting fit myself. I being the non-runner I am, have signed up to run a half marathon for Haiti. I have to tell you if you asked me a few months ago if I would be training for a half marathon, the answer would be not right now! Maybe when I am in shape, okay....um guess who just signed up for their first one? Yep that is right, it's me~
I am running for Heartline, they are in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. They provide a safe and clean place for women to come and have their babies naturally and by c-section. It is also a place that the women and children in community can come to that is a safe place to learn about Jesus and to adopt life-skills. Check out their blog! It typically costs $800-$1000 for a safe and clean c-section. I am praying that God will be able to use this run to bless Heartline and their ministry serving the women and children of Haiti!

So I am praying not only that training will go well but that I can kick this negative self-talk and specifically address it. What am I allowing the devil to take control of? Am I afraid of not finishing? Well, yes, but I am putting in miles during the week and following a plan so if I continue to do the distance in training, I should make it all 13.1 miles.

Today, I went to the gym and ran inside for 2.66 miles on the treadmill and then I went outside because it is really nice weather for January, anyway I ran 1 mile in a little over 10 min. and I came home huffing and feeling like I could get sick. I didn't but I am praying I get past this 4 miles feeling stronger and like I can breathe and not vomit at the end of my run! I have 279 more miles to log before the race. The marathon is scheduled for May 6th, pray for me if you have a moment! Thanks so much!

Many of you know after I went to Haiti, my love has grown and I have tried to find ways to get back and ways to impact them, well here is my next venture for Haiti! Please pray about supporting them while supporting me in this run. You can donate directly through Heartline. I will have an application on the side of my blog for donations for Heartline! I'll post when it is up and working! Allison from Heartline is getting it ready for us to use to start raising money!

(*Me feeding one of the babies when I was in Haiti in April)
Here's to getting in shape and saving lives!

Meal Plan!

2012-01-30T14:16:00.000-08:00

Monday: Spinach and Mushroom Pizza

Tuesday: Mac&Cheese made with Cauliflower and Veggies

Wednesday: Roast with Carrots and Red Potatoes

Thursday: Chicken with Broccoli and Salad

Friday: Vegetable Lasagna

Saturday: Out to eat with Friends

Sunday: Tilapia with Rice and Peas

This week is very simple meals~

Hope you have a wonderful week! Be Blessed!!

Weekly Meal Plan!

2012-01-22T14:12:00.000-08:00

Welcome!

Happy New Year and I am back from an amazing vacation refreshed!!!

Here is my menu for this week, pretty anti-climatic since coming back from vacation and a cruise! My family is going to get used to one main dish and not a menu to order from. :)

Monday:Tilapia with rice and peas

Tuesday:Easy Crock pot Italian Chicken (recipe found on Pinterest)

Wednesday: Meatloaf with carrots and red potatoes

Thursday:Cafe Rio Chicken with Black Beans Corn and Cilantro Rice

Friday: Vegetable Lasagna with Salad

Saturday: Pork Chops with green beans and rice

Sunday: Baked Chicken with Mashed Potatoes and Veggies

Have a wonderful day, enjoy your week! Be Blessed!!

Heely's Review

2011-11-16T15:49:00.000-08:00

I had the wonderful opportunity to review a pair of Heely's. I thought this would be great for Brooklynn to try! So we looked at the options that Business2Blogger and Heely's sent us and she decided on this pair!

Have you heard about Heely's? If not let me tell you a little about them and our experience with them! When you open the box you see these directions on the inside of the box!

Heely's are a great two for one, shoes and skates! They are super stylish shoes and are quality made to last. As shoes, they are nicely made, the sole is thick and is sturdy. They seem as if they will last a long time, which is a plus with this mom. One aspect of the shoe that I love, you can completely take out the wheel and put the bracket back on so it is functioning only as a typical shoe. Great because I don't have to fight in the morning before school trying to tell her she can't wear her new shoes to school because they have wheels! Plus, it literally takes seconds to switch from shoe to skate mode. You can be ready to ride in no time!

Brooklynn was very excited about the new shoes but was also a little nervous to use them. We watched a few tutorials on the Heely's website to make sure we knew what we were doing before going out to the driveway. I helped Brooklynn roll down the driveway a few times holding onto her arms to help her balance. Okay so here is a real problem we encountered, because she has skated before she wasn't used to needing to lift up her toes. The first few times weren't that easy and she had a hard time keeping her balance.

After using the Heely's a few more times she is starting to get the hang of it which was great. It is just going to take more practice and maybe even time practicing in the house. It is also about feeling confident enough to take off running in the Heely's to zoom like the videos displayed. Brooklynn happens to not be much of a risk taker, which means we need to practice more to build up confidence after she fell outside!

We do think it will be a lot of fun and very good exercise once she masters the skill!

If you are interested in your own pair of Heely's they have a great deal coming up! Heely's is throwing a Black Friday special!! Between Nov 25-Nov 28, Buy any pair of Heelys, get the second pair for $25. Or buy a Nano, and get a pair of shoes for $25, and get free ground shipping on all orders!

Want to watch for future deals they may have? Follow them on facebook, on twitter, or on their website!

Disclosure: I was sent a pair of Heely's in exchange for an honest review. No other compensation was received. All opinions were honest and my own.

Thank you to Business2Blogger and Heely's for this opportunity!

"Dirty 30"

2011-11-06T15:32:00.000-08:00

Okay, with me turning 30 this month (ahhh), I wanted to come up with an idea that would make this upcoming birthday something to look forward to rather than dread it! Really I am having an issue with this birthday!!! I not only feel old, gasp, I found a gray hair....yikes! Really does this mean I need to dye my hair, okay, step back and breathe....worry about things I can change!

Okay! So, instead of celebrating my birthday I had an idea! I have heard many birthday ideas from friends and I am customizing my own idea using a similar name.

Ever feel like sometimes you are playing tug-of-war with your life? Let me explain here. I think I have things pretty well managed, but sometimes I feel like I am being drug in a direction I don’t need or want to go. I want to get a hold on these feelings instead trying to block them out. I am not trying to impress anyone with this; I just want to go down a different road where there is no tug! I want to better my life but in turn better the lives of my kids. A better me equals a better them and is a better bigger picture!

The Dirty Thirty, no it will not be the dirty thirty parties some of you may have heard of! Mine will not consist of any going out bar to bar, but simply tasks or items that I have wanted to get at and attack! Some of the things I made a list of are my "Dirty" little secrets, some are my wants as far as my house, and some are some habits that I would like to instill in my daily routine!
No they aren't dirty and yes this may seem silly or weird, but listen folks, its better than stressing and causing more of those little white friends to pop up!! The reason for it being a dirty "30" is not because I am coming up with thirty things necessarily, but they should take about 30 min. If it takes more than 30 min, it will be a weekend project! Also for something to become a habit you need to do it at least for 30 days for it to become natural!

So here is my list:

House:
1. I want to get rid of my junk drawer. (Yes my secret drawer- I stash things in so it's hidden, please let me know I am not the only one that stashes things from time to time!)
2. I want to re-organize my china cabinet (it stresses me out)
3. I want to get rid of all my skinny clothes, no I will NEVER be a size 2 or 4 again!
4. I want to get rid of all my unmatched sheets.
5. I want to box up all the kids’ clothes that don't fit.
6. In our basement, I want to get my laundry area all sorted.
7. Hang up our smoke detectors (please don’t ask!)
8. Replace light bulbs in basement
9. Flip mattresses
10. Build railing for front porch steps
11. Get fencing for side of house to hide the hot tub!
12. I want to get a storm door for the front door. Really I have wanted one for the last 8yrs.

Personal:
1. Wake up at a consistent hour everyday (I used to be good at this, by getting up early before the kids to do my devotions, needs to start again)
2. Walk/Workout three days a week (This is to get healthy, not because I want to fit into the previously mentioned size 2/4 clothes!)
3. Spend more time in bible study (I do our group bible study, but I want to make sure I am doing more, seeking more)
4. Keep up with my zones-Fly lady! Especially on days I work!
5. Specifically spend time with the kids doing something with them without the distraction of phone/computer/television. During the summer it is easier to be an “unplugged” family. I want to be more intentional about our time together!

Here's a bonus to this, I feel guilty already about sharing that I have so many things I want to regain focus on; but if it isn't too shameful I will post pictures of before and after if I have some wonderful organizing tips, etc. Again, I will never say I am perfect, but sheesh this makes me feel bad to admit some of the stashing....does that mean I need therapy? I hope not!

BE BLESSED!

Monday Menu

2011-11-06T13:49:00.000-08:00

This weeks Menu is pretty simple!

Monday:
Meatloaf with Carrots and Potatoes

Tuesday:
Crockpot Pineapple Chicken

Wednesday:
Cheese and Chicken Quesadillas

Thursday:
Spaghetti and Green Beans

Friday:
Crockpot Buffalo Chicken served with rice

Saturday:
Lunch:
I will be making soup and rolls and then having someone bring desserts and salad.
(We are doing rake and runs with our small group....)
Dinner:
Grilled cheese, fruit, and carrots with ranch

Sunday:
Breakfast:
Baked French Toast
Lunch:
Stuffed Chicken, Rice, and Green Beans
Dinner:
Leftovers/Sandwiches :)

Hope you are blessed this week!

Here is a little snipit from a craft I am going to do with the kids on Thursday!!

Of course I found the idea on Pinterest!

Monday's Menu!

2011-11-01T06:01:00.000-07:00

This week I have some great new chicken recipes to try!!! I will post a blog with pictures and the recipe and how it went over with our family! I wanted to find things that my kids would love and would be healthy as well as easy to make!

Here are our Dinners for the week!

Monday:
Pizza after an evening of trick-or-treating!
Tuesday:
Cheesy Chicken Ranch Lasagna with salad
Wednesday:
Crock Pot Meal ~working late~
Thursday:
Chicken and Spinach Casserole
Friday:
Make your own Taco Bar
Saturday:
Balsamic Chicken with Rice and Veggie
Sunday:

Out to Eat for lunch and leftover dinner

Happy November!!! What are you most thankful for today?!

Today I am thankful for my wonderful family!

Enjoy your day and Be Blessed!

Future Craft!

2011-10-19T15:29:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I may be slightly addicted to a new fad in the social network! I have a great friend, Laura, that had been talking about Pinterest. Well, I guess I asked the right person because after our conversation she sent me an invite to join! Oh my, in almost three weeks, I am hooked more on that than facebook, gasp, shocker?! (Yes I use facebook too) I love all the ideas I am finding and all the wonderful blogs that I may have never found without this network! So, I have already added new recipes to my collection and I am tickling my craft bone!!! Have you heard of Pinterest? If not, on the sidebar I have a link to my Pinterest page, you can click on it and if you think you'd like it, I can send you an invite!!! You won't regret signing up, well maybe you will regret the amount of time you spend finding all things wonderful!!

So on that note, here is a craft I will be making soon.
It is on my list of things to do after this busy week of
catering, working, and two birthday parties!

Click here to go to the website!

Okay isn't this the cutest idea?! I know she bought them at Pottery Barn and is suggesting to do the love notes in them leading up to Valentine's Day, which I LOVE, but I have an idea! So, I am suggesting going out getting some felt, thread, ribbons for the straps, and some Velcro. I think it would be a great idea to have the kids write or draw things to each other too, maybe reasons they are grateful for each other, ways they care for the other, etc. I think these could be used at multiple times during the year too!

I'll post when I accomplish this!

Menu Planning Monday~

2011-10-15T06:57:00.001-07:00

This week is VERY exciting!!! Both of my kids have birthday's this week! Two days apart, yes very crazy! God has blessed us with AMAZING kids! I love them so much!
So this weeks meals will incorporate great meals and breakfast specials!

Monday:
Breakfast:
French Toast with Blueberries

Dinner:
Stuffed Chicken Breasts

Southern Sweet Potato Bake
Green Veggie
Salad
Pie/Birthday kid Cupcake!

Tuesday:
Breakfast:
Breakfast Bake

Dinner:
Roasted Turkey with dried Cranberries
Herbed Stuffing
Veggie
Salad

Wednesday:
Breakfast:
Waffles with fruit

Dinner:
Chicken Gyro with Yogurt-Dill Sauce
Sweet Potato Fries
Pasta Salad
Brownie/Birthday kid Cupcake!

Thursday:
Breakfast:
Eggs with Toast

Dinner:
Chicken
Broccoli Rice Casserole

Friday:
Breakfast:
Cereal

Dinner:
Crockpot Roast
with carrots/potatoes

Saturday:
Parties: Lunch will be fruit and pb&j or turkey with cheese
Dinner: Pizza with Salad and Veggies

Sunday:
We will be going out to eat for lunch
Dinner: Grilled Cheese with soup

Welcome Back!

2011-10-15T05:19:00.000-07:00

How are you? How was that for a nice long blogging break from me?!

I had a summer busy with recovery from surgery and I had a good summer with my kids. Without being able to drive for 10 weeks after surgery, we needed to be creative with me at home with the kids. It was however nice to have some down time with them before school kicked into high gear again. And, oh my goodness, has it kicked into high gear!! Not only being at a new school, but Andrew is all day now. Yes, a few tears (yes from me!) but it has been nice too for both the kids! Praising God for their awesome transition, as it could have been disastrous. Both the kids love their teachers and their classmates.

I am partially back at work currently, waiting for the surgeon to release me back to floor nursing. I am so excited about getting back to patient care, etc. But more importantly I am excited about getting back on a schedule of work and blogging! I have been writing down ideas all summer for projects, things to write about, etc, and I can't wait to start, I am really excited about it! As you can imagine, after having surgery, it not only was overwhelming but very intimidating as I knew that I couldn't do the same things that I did without thinking about. I am getting better at doing things left handed. I still have problems lifting things with my right arm, but I am not going to let it define me. The only other thing that is frustrating is that I can't type for long periods of time, my fingers start to go numb, but that is a nerve issue after having surgery. So with that said, I WILL be blogging, just not everyday. I will be sharing meal plans/recipes/ideas. Then on occasions: craft ideas/activities. I want to have a weekly inspirational post likely at the end of the week. Then, as I start to do reviews/giveaways they will be either on Tuesday or Thursday! I hope I am able to live up to the expectations I set before taking this long break. Please feel free to contact me again if you have an idea or question! Thanks for sticking around!!!

Be Blessed!

April 8th, 2011

2011-05-09T07:46:00.000-07:00

Last night I hardly slept, not only did the dogs fight outside our windows all night, the rooster crowed before dawn, but I had a lot on my heart. I think we are all at a place where we are tired and spent physically. Breakfast was wonderful again with hard boiled eggs, bread, bananas, papaya, and pineapple. This morning Jen shared a devotional about "greatness" and how we find greatness in humility. (Amazing)

After devotions we went to Yvrose's Orphanage. The kids were super cranky and mean today. I haven't seen this side of them but, I think they are anxious about us leaving. They wanted a great deal of attention (positive or negative) and they clung tightly to us. After lunch it rained and flooded the yard. Some of the kids all gathered on a little porch and watched "High School Musical" on a very small TV. (Just a thought, why/how did they get this movie?! haha)

It was hysterical! The kids knew all of the lyrics and dance moves. Pretty funny. It was really evident how some wanted to be loved on, and how some continued to seek attention in whatever way they could find. Some of the boys would look straight at us and then start pinching and hitting the other ones sitting next to them, knowing they would get in trouble. All they want is your time and attention. I wish I could give them more of that. I would love to be here longer or bring them home with me. Either way I want to pour more into them.

Jen brought nail polish to paint the kids nails, of course they were so excited!

We painted a few but then it turned into some of them, even the boys turning around to paint ours, even our toes. They have true servant hearts. Patrick used his only shirt to wipe the excess paint from around our nails to make sure it looked nice and then they blew on them to help them dry.

Amazing kids, God has blessed me much more than I could have blessed them during my time here. After painting their nails, they ate their meal.

My heart just dropped during their meal. One little girl was passing out trays of rice and set two aside, my first thought was she wanted extra, but her intention: to make sure the kids that were back in their rooms got some before they ran out. Before she started to eat, she was thinking about others, how many of us would do that before our one and only meal of the day? Seriously, be honest....

(Update: Mama with 4/5 pictured, had baby Joshua on April 12!)

Late in the afternoon we went back to check on "Mama" (9 months pregnant with 5 other kids and her husband was killed with a machete) at the back of Yvrose's lot. She was so proud to show us the beds that Randy and Marvin had made for her. It was like "Extreme Home Makeover" Haiti style. After they made the beds, they used leftover wood to make shelves for her too. You would have thought they were made out of gold! Yvrose came to each of us and raised her arms to God and said "Thank you God for sending the missionaries!" and then kissed each of us on the cheek. She told us that she didn't know how she would provide for this woman and her children. Then we came and the woman got new beds, shelving, and food (enough to eat and sell for several months). Yvrose gives God the glory, she takes credit for nothing. What an amazing woman. She told us many stories about how God has provided, blessed them. She has mentioned before, but I am visually seeing how God has planned our time here. First we were supposed to come two months earlier, our trip got pushed back due to the elections and cholera outbreak. Yet here we are in Haiti, elections going on, Martelly winning....God wanted us to be here now. This family wouldn't have been here two months ago, we wouldn't have known the need for beds, etc. Thank you Lord for providing ALWAYS! Do you see this bigger picture? I originally was put off, not seeing why our trip was being pushed back, thinking how inconvenient it was that I had to apply for yet another vacation. (At a hospital, especially on my unit, it is hard) I am amazed! Thank you Jesus!!! Thank you Lord for all these kids, and their love~

It came time to say "goodbye". We were emotionally and physically exhausted but we didn't want to leave. The tears began to roll from our eyes as the kids began to cry. How precious that the kids were clinging to us after a week, saying I love you. I felt like I was not just leaving a piece of my heart but leaving "my" kids behind too. I will miss them so much. Many of the children ran to their rooms and collected whatever token they could give us. These kids are amazing, do you understand that they don't have much, yet they are willing to give you whatever they have. Heartbreaking when they have nothing (compared to our standards). Physically they lack a great deal but they are blessed beyond all measure to have Yvrose as a mother. Yvrose pours out everything she has for these children, most importantly she teaches them about Jesus. And let me tell you, these kids are so rich with the Spirit of God. Their thoughts are focused on Him and not consumed by the rush of things, money, and schedules. I am blessed to have learned that there is more to life than the things I value. I can tell you, I want things to change at home, I don't want to get back into being consumed by everything around me. I want to lead my kids as Yvrose is leading these kids. I only have two kids, she currently has 170+, if I can't pass these values on to my kids then I have failed, majorly.

(Can you feel her love in this picture?!)

Haiti has changed me. I WILL NEVER FORGET!

April 7th, 2011

2011-05-08T08:26:00.000-07:00

(This is a picture of Yvrose's farm)

Today I woke up early again, as I walked out and saw the sun rising, I prayed for the day that we were about to be blessed with. Praising God for a breath of fresh air. Today started out with devotions and breakfast and then we left to go to Yvrose's farm. It was a beautiful drive through Haiti. Again, it is SO beautiful here, yet there is so much suffering and devastation all around. At the farm we walked the grounds, were able to pray over what crops will one day be on this land. We were shown Yvrose's coffee beans, bread fruit, and mangoes. The farm is lush with fruit and coffee. Once Yvrose's coffee beans are ready to harvest, she roasts them with sugar cane, and let me tell you, she makes AMAZING coffee!!! If we were in the states, it wouldn't be hard to get supplies or the field plowed, here, we have to wait on a container to be released to get the seeds. The fields need plowed I am not sure how Yvrose plans to do this, I am praying for this, maybe something a team in the future can focus on! It is amazing to see just how much Yvrose trusts that God will get the seeds to them before the rainy season begins, which is in May. Her faith is impressed upon me over and over again! We walked to a pond and a pool she has full of Tilapia that are growing.

All of the livestock got stolen. She talked to us about how she prays that she can have a new farmer that she can trust and that will work hard for her in these fields. Here is a picture of a house on the farm. Please pray for a Godly person to live here and tend to the farm.
On the way back to Yvrose's Orphanage we stopped at a distillery and saw Haitian moonshine being made, Yvrose said she would buy a small amount and mix with water and it is like a cough suppressant. It didn't smell wonderful~

We also stopped at a stand along the road and bought flat bread.

We had an appointment at the HHF gift shop where we were able to buy Haitian art and locally made items. I was able to get some things for the kids, some pure vanilla, and a basket. We then went to the orphanage for a couple of hours and hung out with the kids. The kids are going to do a program for us tonight. It is very evident that they know that our time is coming to an end, you can see that they get anxious, and act out to get your attention. They are all very clingy, but I really love snuggling with the kids, it is amazing how they just melt in your arms and lap, and doesn't take long for them to totally relax and fall asleep! We left so the kids could get ready for their program they have prepared for us. At 7 pm we were picked up for the program. When we arrived it was dark and hard to see, but the kids immediately found you as you feel hands grabbing your skirt and hands leading you to your chosen chair! How honoring, greeted by little ones calling your name and kissing on you. The kids lined up along the walls of the orphanage and sang and then played their instruments (all taught by Yvrose).
I can't explain to you just how much of a blessing it is to hear these children praising God, and Yvrose's legacy living within these walls.

Once they finished their concert they of course rushed up to hug and kiss us, some of the kids were crying, thinking we wouldn't be back. A few of the kids rode with us back to the lodge, it is simple, can I tell you, LOVE, they need things yes, but what they need most is to feel LOVE. I don't know what God is stirring in my heart, but I know this is not the last time I will be here. My heart is heavy for Haiti

Surgery

2011-04-27T15:21:00.000-07:00

I just had surgery Tuesday on my shoulder....I will be back to blogging soon. Thanks for hanging by....unfortunately I am experiencing more pain than planned. I will try to type next week.

Blessings

April 6th, 2011

2011-04-16T22:09:00.001-07:00

I want to start by telling you, I have a hard time sharing this journal with you. This was the hardest day of my life to date. I couldn’t even pick up a pen to write about it for a couple of days. Please understand what I am about to explain to you is far worse than the feed the children commercials that you may have seen.

(The medical girls pictured outside the Center of Hope)

Today started out with great opportunities for me. We planned on working in two different hospitals today. The first hospital is HHF (Haitian Health Foundation). HHF is run by Betty, on Wednesday’s it is for women and children birth-12 months. These women travel up to 8 hrs to get here. They have to check in by 7:30am to get the babies weighed in, blood pressure and vitals recorded, and updated vaccines if needed. It was great to see the mothers at these checkups! I had an awesome time talking with the women and being able to tell them how beautiful their babies were! The mothers were so proud and their whole demeanor would change as we would tell them in Creole how beautiful and ask the name of their baby! I wish I would have gotten a picture of these women, especially as they weighed the older babies. Once they are too large for the infant scale, they graduate if you will to a hanging scale. They would lay the children in a sling, hands and feet hanging out as they squirmed around, and then attach the sling to the scale. It was cute!!! They started in the gazebo, then they had a breastfeeding class, it was great to see women assisting each other. After they finished the educational portion in the gazebo they then proceeded to wait to see the doctor in the main facility. This was an all day affair, in the states we get antsy waiting 40 min to see the doctor, again another way for me to thank God and feel blessed by the care so readily available. The Center of Hope is a residential treatment facility for two of the most vulnerable and fragile populations in rural Haiti: at-risk pregnant women and severely malnourished children. The next paragraph and picture I took from HHF's website as we didn't take pictures of the malnourished babies at HHF. (http://www.haitianhealthfoundation.org/?page_id=32) The Kwashiorkor Treatment Facility is for children who suffer from severe malnutrition caused by protein deficiency. These children often need to be tube fed, as they have lost the ability to eat—sometimes even the ability to cry. Rehabilitation of these children is often difficult; to help with the treatment, mothers are housed with the children to learn about proper nutrition and to prevent a relapse into malnutrition.

(Same boy, 6months after treatment)

HHF does a great job getting the kids healthy but also educate parents about how to keep the kids healthy. All in all it was a very encouraging morning.

We then were picked up to go back to the orphanage for lunch. We were able to help pass out bread with peanut butter! It was so much fun to pass out peanut butter to all of the kids. The kids were so appreciative, and wanted to share. Mechelle and Lachelle kept trying to give me bites of their sandwiches. Very humbling, when they don't eat like this usually, they are eager to please and offer what they have. I can't believe and explain how much they are teaching me on being a better servant!

Mother Theresa's Hospital

A few words for the afternoon: NUMB and Spiritually devastated. As we were dropped off, we knew we were going to help bathe and feed little ones and possibly older adults. I never expected to see or feel the things that were about to unfold before me. Walking in the aroma of urine, feces, and vomit hit you before you can catch your breath. I looked around and saw 33+ metal infant cribs lined in rows in the first room, housing what can be described no better than bones/limp bodies. These children didn't resemble my idea of even a baby that was malnourished would look like. I could count every rib, if we handled them wrong their skin may tear or their tiny bones may break. These children lay motionless, whimpering, struggling to breathe some of them, shallow respiration's, kids that look past you and don't reach up to be loved on. I felt like the breath had been knocked out of me. I felt worthless, numb, angry, hurt, and amazed that this actually exists. The vision that is burned on my retinas is FAR worse than any feed the children add, and those always have the ability to capture my heartstrings. I eagerly asked a Nun if I could change a baby or wash, or do anything. Here are children laying in their own feces/urine and vomit crusted to the chin/neck. As we came in it was the winding down of nap time. You could tell the Nun felt ashamed as I was persistent in asking what I could do. It was almost as if she didn't want me to see what the grave reality of the situation was. She said no, she was fine, just to help feed them in an hour. However I needed to DO something, I was afraid if I didn't do something I would physically shut down and start to weep. We walked out quickly and yes I lost it. Thankful for my sunglasses. After a little bit, I went back in and asked the Sister again. Finally Sister Margarete allowed us to hold babies. She said "There are too many of them (babies) and only 5 Nuns to hold." The kids had bracelets on identifying name, age, and admitting numbers. Eager to learn names to pray I was stunned and sickened by age vs. weight and motor skills etc. that were reality. Everything I knew came crashing down. Lord, forgive me for being SO selfish. Lord, how can something like this exist? I don't understand. HELP GOD PLEASE!! Bring someone to help or please take these babies out of their current Hell. I gazed at a 5yr old that probably at best weighed in a little over 20lbs. A 1 1/2yr old that maybe weighed 10lbs. Lord where are you? I wish my arms were stronger and larger, I can only hold two, three at most. I am falling apart.... We helped feed the babies, the infant I was feeding just threw up on me...one of the sister's told me it was because she just came the day before and she is so hungry and her body can't handle the food yet. JESUS HELP. The Nun is worried about my clothing, seriously? I don't care about my shirt. What about IV fluids? What about enteral feedings? I AM ANGRY THAT THERE ISN'T MEDICAL EQUIPMENT TO TAKE CARE OF THESE BABIES!

After feeding the children Sister Leese was talking with me, she asked when I am coming back, all I could respond is I'd love to come back with my husband. Reality is, could Chip handle a day like today? And, would I actually want his eyes and heart to be burdened with such despair? I would love to bring back a team to do just baths, changing diapers, HOLDING, and feeding. Of course going from here to the orphanage would instill more hope. Lord why do I feel SO discouraged? The Sisters are doing what they can. They go out to find these situations. THEY ARE HELPING! Is it enough? They are getting the kids healthy, they are seeing success, they are educating families....please allow me see the silver lining~

Beth Moore put it: Faith unchallenged is faith stifled. God am I putting you in a box? I know who you are and what you can do! God I don't want you to fit in a box....MOVE!

Matthew 8:26 You of little faith, why are you so afraid?

God please forgive me for being SO selfish. Forgive me for being prideful. Forgive me for not springing into action. Please give me the courage to act. Lord use me. Humble me Lord, I'm on my knees, use me as YOUR servant. I don't like to feel like I can't control myself or my emotions. I feel empty. Lord I just want to feel something, numb isn't good, broken....I turn to you Jesus. PLEASE take these little ones into your hands. Humble me Lord.....all I have to give is Your love, I hope my arms and hands have been pleasing to you today Lord. Sister Margarete told me that they go out into the bush/mountains to find if they can help. They take in the worst cases that they find. If there are more out there....maybe my mind shouldn't go there right now. Sister Leese took me over to the nun's house, she showed me where they will have mass today. She then went to get something for us. She came back with Mother Theresa's card with a prayer and a charm that has I Thirst~ She proceeded to ask for prayers. "Please don't forget us, Please pray for us!" Lord, I couldn't forget, probably even if I wanted to, which I don't....YES praying is the least I can do. Sister Leese has pain in her left side, she asked for prayers. We then had to leave, Lord please keep your hands on the Sister's and over this hospital.

Lord, please don't let me forget. My walls are torn down, thank you for opening my eyes God~

April 5th, 2011

2011-04-13T06:36:00.004-07:00

(Little girl from Darlene's with baby doll and balloon!)

This morning we went to Darlene’s orphanage. Gene and Shelba, missionaries we are serving with told us that Darlene’s orphanage is what Yvrose’s looked like when they partnered with her 11 years ago. It’s one thing to be told that conditions are not good, but it is another to actually see it. When I walked through the gate of the orphanage I saw devastation. The physical conditions were terrible and the children were sick. You want to know the second thing I saw after scanning the grounds? I saw these precious kids, standing lined up, waiting to sing to us.

They sang in Creole and English "Let me see your face, let me see your eyes." "Thank you for coming and welcome to our home." (I promise to have Chip do the techsavy thing for me by uploading the video on the blog!)

They sang and conviction lay on my heart. I am eager to get home and go over our budget….there has to be something financially at least that I can do. (I tell you this because it continually was on my mind)

The physical conditions of this orphanage were unbelievable and there was truly no room inside or out for the kids to move freely. They don’t have the room to play soccer like at Yvrose’s. They had a tarp hanging from the building to the fence with folding tables where they could eat.

Their rooms, while Yvrose had bunk beds, they needed more. It was amazing to me, we were surrounded by kids again, their eyes piercing, but not very many had smiles. Some had wounds, for me as someone that doesn’t mind wounds, I felt at a loss because I didn’t have the proper supplies to clean and bandage them. While Katelyn held a little boy I tried at best to clean a wound and put a bandage over it. At best it would only last a day.Miriam, a PT, had a little one cling quickly to her. The little girl’s name was Cecilia. (Cecilia is on the far right front of the picture above.) They told us that she has contractures due to Typhoid. She was so precious; she wouldn’t keep any toys until she knew everyone had something. Miriam is going to look into making a splint out of one of our flip-flops to get her arm back to a neutral range. Some of the kids had bad coughs. Jen, another nurse found a little boy with a very high fever. Jen tried to explain to the caregivers that he needed to be hospitalized. At first they would not let him go because they didn't have the money and strangely were afraid to let him leave with us to go to HHF.

There was a lady working at the orphanage and she tried to say he just needs to eat, after better translation they decided they would let him go. They proceeded to wash him and dress him in nice clothes. They wouldn’t let him leave the orphanage before they made him more presentable. Two of the girls from our team went back to the lodge to grab more medical supplies and $10 for him to go to the hospital. It is so frustrating that there is no way to get the kids the things they need. Antibiotics are rare and not common practice, it kills me to see these kids only eating once a day.

After leaving Darlene’s we went back to Yvrose’s. I was not doing well, I am sure dehydration was hitting as well as something intestinal. I wanted to stay at the orphanage, but ended up going back to the lodge to rest. Prayed for healing.

The kids attended a VBS put on by Melissa’s church from San Diego.

Thank you Lord for today.

April 4th, 2011

2011-04-13T06:36:00.003-07:00

Seriously can’t explain to you the uneasiness of the roosters and the dogs. Our room backs up to the road, and anytime there is any bit of disturbance, wildlife or someone walking, the dogs go into a raging fit. On one hand it is nice because we stay alert to the surroundings, on the other I would love for some good sleep. Once the dogs get going it spooks the roosters then the dogs chase the roosters, again never-ending! Maybe some chicken for dinner wouldn’t be so bad, just kidding! This morning we had a wonderful breakfast; it was a crepe with apples and then a slice of laughing cow cheese.

(When I told you they treated us like kings and queens I wasn't lying)

One thing that Yvrose does in addition to having the orphanage, she takes in homeless people. There is a mama that is pregnant with her 6th child; her husband was murdered just a few weeks before we got there by a machete. Can you imagine a family of 7 living in one tiny room with two twin beds? After breakfast we talked about building bunk beds, Marvin and Randy are going to build them today, and we will get a full size bed for the mama! Together as a group we gathered some money to buy mattresses and food, as 11 of us gathered our money we got $405. This was more than enough for this! PRAISE GOD!

(Rice we got Mama!)

While we waited on Yvrose, Adrian, and Alphonse to pick us up we took a walk to see the rest of the lodge grounds. The lodge we are staying at is owned by Betty and Edmund. Betty is a nurse from America that after coming once to Haiti felt called to move here, since then she has furthered her education with a masters and PhD in Public Health, and met her husband Edmund. They utilize these grounds to rent out rooms for public aid workers, missionaries, etc. We walked over to the new buildings and they are beautiful. We walked to the roof where it overlooks the sea and mountains. We sorted supplies to take to Yvrose’s orphanage and then some to take to Darlene’s orphanage as well. They were filled with toiletries, toys, school supplies and medical. I have to tell you one of the most touching things from one of the bags we took to Yvrose’s, Laura from my small group gave me girls underwear to take, the young girls at the orphanage were overjoyed to get a pair of underwear! Rosita passed one out to each girl that would fit, and they were SO excited. Pretty humbling to think this would be so special to them.

We also colored and played play-dough. These are treasures to them. The kids are all very creative and I got a few pictures to bring home from some of the kids. They are so giving. We tried to teach the kids the chicken dance...I am sure we looked like CRAZY people, but they laughed and learned quickly. The rest of the morning was spent loving on the kids. They crave touch and love. It is noticeable that even the older kids yearn for this too. I was watching some of the older ones acting out just to get our attention. Even if the attention they are getting is that of correction, they are still eager to get it. I listened to a few kids lung sounds, I am sure one little boy has pneumonia, if only antibiotics were as readily available as they are in the states. I wish I had more to give. More time to love on the kids and more resources to give them the medical attention they so desperately need. For the most part, the kids at Yvrose’s are healthy but a few need antibiotics. A lot of them need treatment for scabies. A little one died from bacterial pneumonia in January. My heart breaks because I know without a doubt if they had access to things as we do in the states, this wouldn’t have been an option. I can’t explain why I am having a hard time today, I feel like I am choking back the tears.

I want to be upfront first about this: I DO NOT PITY Haiti! I will admit I thought I needed to rescue these babies, I mean even taking a few would ensure their not having to endure a life like this. Right? Wrong! I talked with Yvrose about adoption, and if she adopts out, and she said no. I was surprised to hear her say she didn’t think that was best for Haiti. She talked about how she is raising them and teaching them to love the Lord and how she wants to equip Haiti with good, strong, Christian Haitian leaders! Wow, what a legacy she is leaving. She is teaching them to build their house on a solid rock (Matthew 7:24) She is teaching them to obey God and these children are eyewitness to God’s provision and her example of a SOLID way of living!!! I am challenged by Yvrose, to live more of this example! Thank you Lord for Yvrose, and for her love for you!

After leaving the orphanage we went on a prayer walk to several churches. It was quite a drive to get to the churches; they were mountainous areas/the bush. Saint Charles church was first.

The tin roof leaks and there are only a few benches (wood slab over two stumps). The team that was there the week before us secured the roof, but by all means and purposes it needs to be redone. We prayed in the church and then got back in the trucks and headed to a second church the River Church. It was precious to see how they had used pink and white pin-wheels and flowers to decorate the sanctuary. Again they need pews. Lord, what perfect timing for our church to be doing this renovation. Please help me to find a way to get them here! I was blessed to be able to pray for God’s protection and blessings on this church. Lord bless the congregants and those that will come to know Christ here. We then went to the beach and gathered rocks so that we will remember to pray for Haiti. The beach was all rocks; the sound of the water hitting the smooth rocks was soothing. There were huts all along the beach, some homes were made of concrete, but Yvrose said that you only had that if you had a lot of money. Let me tell you the huts were beautiful, they were so meticulously made with bamboo/dirt/grass.

On the way home we had to hurry because we (the American’s) had to be home before 5 pm. They were to find out the results of the election. Amazingly enough, although we tried to not be there when the election and rioting was going on, we were right in the heart of it. There was much rejoicing in the streets of Jeremie, they all were anticipating that Martelley would win! Everyone was screaming "Alle Alle! Tete Kalle!" (Go! Go! bald head!). Haitians filled the streets cheering, there was a funeral going on at the same time, Yvrose told me to get pictures....I took video. They were dancing in the street with a casket over their heads, amazing. They were rejoicing, not only the life that had passed, but for a new power in office. As we were getting closer to the lodge one of the tires on Yvrose’s truck blew. Yvrose was a little worried, she said we needed to get home now, because as she explained, they won’t hurt her, but they would hurt us, especially if the election didn’t go as they wanted. Edmund happened to be just ahead of us and we got in his car and proceeded onto the lodge. Everyone made it home safely, we prayed for Yvrose and that she would get a tire and get home before dark! As we were eating dinner we heard the cheers and gunshots, Martelley was declared the winner of the primary election.

Lord, please be with the people of Haiti. Lord, please guide Martelley!

April 3rd, 2011

2011-04-13T06:36:00.002-07:00

Today we woke up and had breakfast: Fresh fruit: pineapple, papaya, banana, and bread. To drink: Fruit juice. We then went to church at The Airport Church. The Airport Church is located close to the Jeremie runway. We drove for a long while down very bumpy roads. There is no way to describe to you just how bumpy the roads are, even our worst pot holes would be a godsend here! Driving and walking for that matter are a fend for yourself mentality. CRAZY! When we got to the church we didn't find much, we saw the remains of an old concrete building with no roof and a banana tree growing in the middle. The rubble needs to be cleaned up, a men's group from FCWC is planning on going out this summer to put a roof on the building. Meanwhile they are worshiping in a temporary church. There were two benches and several logs to sit on. The support was made of small tree posts and the roof was scrap metal. Looking from the back you can see how it is leaning. When we arrived, church had already started, Thomas was leading them in a bible study (Sunday School). Once they noticed we were standing in the back, they all moved off of the benches so we could sit comfortably. It was so touching. Despite the conditions, they were WORSHIPPING! Thoughts came across me, they know what it is to truly worship, not letting surroundings hinder them, or fear of the unknown, or frustrations of those in the congregation. They had a JOY that was unspeakable. We stateside seem to find anything and everything to hinder our ability to get to this point of truly worshipping. We complain about the temperature, the volume of the sound, the type of music, the message we are receiving....seriously people, isn't it about one thing?! The Holy Spirit! The Holy Spirit was there, and it was amazing to feel HIM. I have a challenge for myself and for all of you at home: Forget your surrounding, worship authentically~ Stop complaining and look for what HE wants you to learn and be focused on! Another thought that consumed me was, this is what Heaven will be like, only with no language barrier! We will all be worshipping in one accord. Even though we couldn't understand their language to sing along, we all clapped and danced together. I noticed some hymns, it was wonderful to be able to sit and worship together! There was a joyful noise made today. It was amazing to listen to Thomas, and then for Randy to preach. Randy gave a message on faith, using an illustration of a child jumping to someone they know and then to someone they didn't. We need child like faith!

After service was finished I felt my hair being touched, followed by lots giggling by a group of young girls. They love curly hair! I told them it was okay to touch it! This wasn't the first time that my hair was played with while being in Haiti! I wish we had more time to sit and be with the members of the church. Here we are trying to minister to those in Haiti, but yet I still feel like I am the only one being ministered to. Lord, please allow me to be your vessel!

(Pastor Thomas, Pastor Randy, and Yvrose-translating)

After church we went to the orphanage for lunch. We had a chicken leg, breadfruit souffle, and beans and rice. Yvrose has such a servants heart. She stated today that she wanted to feed us so that we weren't hungry and so we wouldn't get sick. I am not sure if Yvrose ate today, she keeps herself busy while we eat. I am guessing she doesn't eat. It is hard to eat when you think the others are hungry. For a moment I thought we were going to get to go out and love some more on the kids, but the heat and exhaustion was getting to some of the team members. After drinking some amazing coffee from Yvrose's farm we returned to the lodge for rest. I read and tried to rest for a bit, then we swam in the pool. They had turned the pump on and chlorinated the pool, it was nice, but again, my heart started to think about the kids. I could only think about how much they would enjoy and feel blessed to come and swim. It's amazing, after a short time, I feel for the kids like they were my own. I am thankful however for the laughs and conversation poolside. Lord thank you for continually blessing our time.

Haiti~

2011-04-13T06:36:00.001-07:00

April 2nd, 2011 First Full Day in Jeremie: I woke up today to many roosters crowing. One particularly has perched himself right outside of our window. The dogs were anxious about something as they were in a barking fit as well. I am now not worried about leaving my alarm clock at my parents house, one of the things I forgot to grab, as I have a good old reliable roosters! Please note some sarcasm! The roosters seem to wake us with their excitement, I talked back to ours, yes we're awake now, you can stop-yeah he just answered with another crow! No lizards in the bed or in our room, I was worried about that as well. They told us that we would most likely wake up to a couple in our room. Our room is open to the outside (the windows and then at the top of the ceiling there are openings covered with mesh screen to keep some bugs out.) The evening was full of the sounds of nature, I am not one that would first jump to go camping, however, this was a joy to wake up to. Thank you God for this opportunity. I was able to wake up to the sun rising, here is one of the pictures, it doesn't do it justice, but so thankful for the opportunity to thank God for all HE is going to do! Today was an amazing day. We walked from the lodge through Jeremie to Yvrose's orphanage. The walk helped open my eyes, my heart goes out to the people of Haiti. Again, the thought of how beautiful the country and people, but how can I make even a dent in what needs to be done? Once we arrived at the orphanage we were greeted with open arms. We brought some things to the orphanage for Yvrose and the kids. It is hard to get certain things in Haiti, and in my checked bag I had a 12 lb. "log" if cheese~ Provolone! Yvrose was so happy, she was praising Jesus for bringing us to her, another very humbling moment. I gave Yvrose some pepper and other cooking spices, she was amazed. Things we take for granted, she was SO blessed by. She explained how hard it is to get some things and if you buy the nicer spices/cheeses some people would think she was rich and would "debrick" her (steal/rob). After giving some things to Yvrose, we walked through the orphanage. All it took was one smile and I was attacked with hugs and kisses, kids on all sides of me. They immediately came to us and all they wanted was to be touched, to feel love, and to take their picture.The whole day was full of lots of hugs, kisses and fun games. A little girl, almost two years old, wanted me to hold her, she wouldn't let me put her down. I am sure she has an ear infection, antibiotics are not easy to come by here. She got some Tylenol to help with the pain and slight temp. Here is a picture, her name is Feteya. These kids are so full of joy and delight in getting something. Donna, a lady on our team was passing out Smarties, the kids wouldn't take another one once they had been given one. I witnessed some showing her they had already been given one. Let me tell you, my kids stateside, would have taken two I know without a doubt. Humbling, I can't even describe to you, then some of the others would lead Donna to the kids that didn't get any yet. These kids are servants, and are teaching me~ The kids get one small meal per day. Yes you are reading that right, ONE. They do not complain but are full of joy. They typically would eat rice and beans. The beans serve as their protein. Yvrose and the older girls prepared our meal inside the orphanage. We were served like kings and queens. VERY hard, especially when you know the kids out back aren't eating and don't ever get to eat what we did. The lunch was wonderful. They made us beautiful meat and cheese pies. The crust was great. They took such delight and care in making our meal for the day.

Some of the games we were able to play with them were duck-duck-goose, double dutch jump rope, and bubbles! They loved playing duck-duck-goose, although they never said goose! They would just hit you a little harder of the head and start running like mad. It was funny. They were the best at jump rope. Boy can they snap that rope down. I am going to try to upload a video of them jumping. It was amazing!!!

My Cup is Full:

My hands have been touched by tiny little hands but more importantly their joy and zest for life is embedded in my heart.

My how I hope I can make a dent in their lives, showing the love of Christ.

I have learned more about being a servant in one day than I have my 29 years of life. May I take it with me forever~ I am SO thankful for these kids and for the witness in Yvrose.

LORD, Help me to remember, may I NEVER forget!

Haiti-Traveling Day and Entry

2011-04-13T06:36:00.000-07:00

This is some snip-its from my journal, may you feel blessed over the next few days, and may you grasp your own calling to Haiti as I now have:

April 1, 2011

We left FCWC at 1:30 am, mom and dad prayed one last time before we left the house. I am excited, but just a bit anxious. I have four flights today, the first being from Cincinnati to Dallas, Dallas to Miami, then Miami to Port au Prince. Starting in Cincinnati we waited to get checked in, amazingly the American Airlines people were running late, so there was one lady running the show~ which resulted in some of our bags being mistagged, and Jen B's suitcase not getting to Haiti at all. Once we got to Haiti, we walked through the terminal and were greeted by a Reggie band. We boarded a bus and went to the customs and baggage area. It was very chaotic but we made it through okay, thankfully we had used bright colored tape to identify our bags. Once we had our bags, 23 out of 24, we walked outside to find Nadar. Of course there were about 50 porters trying to help us so we would pay them. We had to hurry to get to our connecting flight.

In Haiti there are no traffic rules except honk the horn and then do whatever you want. There also aren't any right/left side of the road, it is a free for all! If you hit someone or something just keep driving. I guess last week the previous team's truck hit a biker and it kept going. It was a great adventure, one that I prayed through a lot. If you see the video you can hear me praying...haha~

We then got on a prop plane and flew to Jeremie. It is amazing looking from the plane. I can't explain the beauty of Haiti, yet such devastation sill remaining from the earthquake. As we were landing in Jeremie, I thought it was funny as the pilot began to honk the horn. Who knew airplanes had horns? He honked it so the cows, roosters, and children would move off the runway. In Jeremie, we met up with the team serving in Haiti the previous week. We briefly heard some of their stories and said our goodbyes. This is where we met Yvrose for the first time. Yvrose is a precious woman, she runs the orphanage with her husband Adrien.

We made it to the lodge where we are staying, went to our rooms and got ready for dinner. We had dinner on an open veranda, it has a small kitchen and a lounge area that we will gather and do our devotions. It was delicious! Amazing eating outside with all the sounds and beauty surrounding us. Gene gave us devotions and had us make fishing hooks into bracelets to remind us that we are "fishers of men". Thankful for what HE is going to do this week, may I be open to all He is going to teach me and all the moments He provides to minister. God is SO good!

I also thought as I was going through pictures that I couldn't forget to share with you, we had many new critters that we experienced, but this one topped the list for the first day!!! I went down to my room to get ready for bed, and I saw something on the wall....yes it was a Wolf Spider....I HATE spiders....anyway I went to get someone to kill it, after I took a picture, and when we got back couldn't find it. I was reluctant to go to bed, yet knew I needed sleep, we prayed and I was singing and my flashlight grazed over something on the wall....help couldn't come fast enough! The spider is now DEAD, but it was a story to remember forever! :)

Blogging Break

2011-03-17T10:28:00.000-07:00

Well, I wish I had a better excuse for why I have taken a little hiatus from blogging, but it started with me picking up more hours at the hospital, and then I couldn't remember my password. Yeah, silly right?! I am going to blame it on age! At the hospital we are required to change our passwords about every 3 months, they can't be the same, and they need to be the same in length, so in my brain I have well over 15 passwords roaming around~ Now that I have the important ones for home written down, this won't be a problem anymore!! :) I have a lot of goals and now that we are well into March of this new year, I am re-tailoring them to adapt to my new lifestyle! I am finding a great perspective in all my circumstances! This is easy to say, but is a learning experience too! I have been asked to review many items, but I will slowly get back into that realm of blogging again, but know that I won't be taking on more than one at a time~ Sorry if that disappoints anyone. If you have any ideas I would love to incorporate that as well! I have more time right now to commit to blogging, so I know I will be able to keep up with my blogging goals! I am excited to not only share with my friends and family but you as well about my new adventures, and my journey on becoming a Proverbs 31 woman! I leave for a missions trip to Haiti soon, and I can't wait to update with bits from my journey there and pictures. May God Bless You!

eShakiti Coupon plus $15

2010-08-10T19:39:00.001-07:00

Alright, so not the best picture, but this was taken in the hotel room, just before my brother's rehearsal for his wedding! And it was HUMID!

So I have to tell you about this website that designs clothes to fit you, not you fitting the clothes! It is hard finding clothes that look good on you in a store, let alone ordering "blind" online. I don't know about you, but for me most of the time things look great online, but either don't fit the way they will say or don't look like you should be wearing it! But with eShakti you can get clothes that are sure to fit you! Yes that's right, you give them your measurements and height and what style of neckline and they make it and ship it out, quickly. I really like that you can pick the neckline and the fact that you can give measurements, for some of us that are a little more "top heavy" and wanting to still be modest you can! If you decide to customize by giving all your measurements for your garment, all you have to add to the price is $7.50! That is cheap for a custom outfit, size and style! All orders even special orders ship within 3 days with delivery in 7-8 days. Another great thing about eShakti, it is for every woman of every size, they service women from 0-26W. I already am filling up a wish list! I love this simple black dress, not too dressy but still classy!

If you purchase something that is currently available, like their overstock 25% off items, which is where I found the dress I bought, and it is shipped in 3-days. I really liked that idea! I was able to sample my first dress at a great price I thought, and knew that if I didn't like the fit, they stated they have a hassle free return. I wasn't disappointed, and I plan on getting some more great finds soon!

So eShakti has given me a coupon code for all of you to use as well! I promise you will not regret purchasing clothing or accessories from eShakti! Using this code for my readers only, will give you an extra 10% off your order! Plus if you register your email on their website they will give you $15 off your first order! You can't beat that!

Air O Swiss Review

2010-08-06T12:53:00.000-07:00

Living in Michigan means having to endure the constant ups and downs of weather changes. Sometimes I joke about the weather being bi-polar! Unfortunately my family and I suffer from allergies and sometimes the weather just makes them worse.I have noticed so many differences over the past month since we started using the Air-O-Swiss Humidifier. We do not have nearly as much dust in our house and my allergies aren't going as crazy as they normally would.

Normally this time of year the weather around here is crazy it's hot and humid one day and then cool the next and I usually get sick or have more issues with allergies and asthma. I have much more energy and it is definitely because I have had a much easier time staying asleep at night, because I am able to breathe so much easier at night and during the day. The nice thing that I am loving with our new AIR-O-SWISS humidifier is that we can take it along with us on vacations and all we need is a bottle of water to use it! It's so quiet that I if it weren't for the mist coming out I wouldn't have thought it was on. We have only been using the unit for a little over a month now and I have already seen a huge difference in the family. When the humidifier is in the living room you can just just smell the clean, crisp air. I feel more refreshed and less tired than usual which is worth a lot to me!

You can buy your own humidifier to fit your needs! We will be purchasing a larger humidifier for our house, and keeping this small travel one for small trips and for my husbands office when weather hits his allergies hard.

We recently stayed in a hotel for a wedding we were attending, and instead of having a sore throat when waking up we felt rested, and not a bit of soreness! The Air-O-Swiss travel humidifier is unique, that is great for those that travel. I never knew before of a travel humidifier. This is a lightweight solution to pure air wherever you go. It will fit in a purse, or a briefcase. Just insert a bottle of water and instantly you can enjoy moist and healthy air! When my husband and I go on our cruise, we will be taking this with us!

Please check out Air-O-Swiss, they have exceptional products!

A huge thanks to Air-O-Swiss for providing this travel humidifier to review!

Yard Sale Tips!

2010-07-20T09:09:00.000-07:00

Here are a few tips that I have used to make having a yard sale successful!

I have learned "painfully so" that it is a great idea to price everything or to have tables set at one price.....and remember people will try to get an even better deal! Baby things go fast! Kitchen items and tools/sporting goods go well too. I make sure if there is anything that has stains on it that it goes in a free box. This last sale I had, I had a couple drive up look around then take the whole free box....even the tote! Be prepared to loose some of the clothes to drive offs etc. I had someone take the paraffin wax system and I only had $2 on it! Oh well it is clutter in my house, and maybe they needed it! Just be prepared and you won't be disappointed when and if something like that happens.

Make sure you keep you keep your house locked, and the money bag inside, keep some change in your pocket but bigger bills inside. I had a friend and have heard too many times where the money has been stolen, don't set yourself up for that to happen to you. You are working hard to make that money, you should profit from it too! I don't let anyone inside to use the bathroom either, there is a gas station not far from our house, I don't need strangers in our house when I am outside doing the sale. Decide ahead of time if you are willing to allow people in your home. Oh and if you are selling appliances/something that plugs in, have an extension cord handy.

Another question someone asked was how much money I start out with. I typically start with $80 in change, especially if I have larger items to sell, (two $10 bill, four $5 bills, 25 $1 bills, 1 roll of quarters, and $5 in nickle and dimes. I sometimes don't bother with the nickles and dimes, but if I have things priced at 10 cents, then I know I need some...BUT, if you have a lot of furniture or higher priced stuff, I think I would definitely start with more money. For instance, if you have a lot of $10 items, most people will probably give you a $20 bill and you will need to make change. Some people will give you the exact amount, so it's mostly in the beginning when you need to be concerned about how much change you have on hand.

I don't think it is too profitable to list in the paper anymore. I list on craigslist and hang a few signs. In the paper it costs about $12 just to list a basic yard sale ad no specifics. Craigslist is free, you can also network on Facebook free too! I also hang up a few signs, just to draw in local traffic on a busy street! You'd be surprised at what a bright colored sign with Sharpie Marker can do to draw in people that love to find treasures!

I may be a little anal, but I take time to separate a table for housewares, tools/manly things, kids toys, and clothes. The clothes is really where I get anal, I separate the boys from the girls and try to keep things summer/winter and according to size together. When I am pricing things I will organize things how I will set it out in tubs. This way on my morning of the sale it takes no time to set up! The night before I put out all the tables, have the tubs ready by the door and my change all ready to go! When pricing items, keep in mind that "a third of what it costs new" is only a guideline. Try to look at your stuff objectively when pricing, and don't be an emotional pricer! If you have a bunch of items that are missing pieces, put it in your FREE box.

Someone asked me how I pick out when I am picking a date for a yard sale, I try to do it around the first weekend of the month, I also try to never do it on a holiday. By doing these few things I have had very successful yard sales. I always want to give the impression that I care about the yard sale and my items. I make sure all the items are cleaned before taking them out. If you have a big jumbled mess - that gives me the impression that you don't care about your things and probably didn't take good care of it when you used it!

Lastly: Enjoy your yard sale! Have a blast and it will be worth it all in the end!
Go make some money!!!!

Menu Planning Monday!

2010-07-19T09:44:00.000-07:00

Wow, yes I did get your emails and yes I have truly intended on doing my menu planning...but alas I have been working almost everyday third shift and as that isn't a wonderful excuse~ Sorry for those of you that like to get ideas and recipes. But let me tell you: I am going to be starting a new schedule soon! I am really excited about this and what it will mean for our family and my sanity! So for this week, I will be catching up on a few posts, I will have two reviews for you, along with some random posts about our summer~

This weeks menu is VERY easy!

Lunches are simple salads or sandwiches for the kids or something simple on the grill like hot dogs, etc! Along with a lot of fruit!

DINNER:

Monday: Taco Salad Night
Tuesday: Grilled Sausage with potatoes/peppers/onions and Corn on the cob!
Wednesday: Kids night with the sitter, and Chip and I out for the evening~
Thursday: Baked Tilapia with Rice and Broccoli
Friday: Quick Marinated Chicken with broccoli and mushrooms
Saturday: My brother's wedding, no cooking this day for me!
Sunday: Roast with Potatoes and Carrots

I'm BAA-CK!

2010-07-18T12:12:00.000-07:00

I am really sorry about how long it has been since my last post~ No excuses, well, maybe some little ones called LIFE and WORK, but I have my obtainable goals set for blogging, and I don't plan to take on anymore than I can handle. I do have two reviews coming up, so keep your eyes peeled!

So what has been going on? Well besides normal everyday life adventures, we have been beach bums during the day before I head out to work. Brooklynn is in Tennis and Swimming Lessons, and about to start Soccer with Andrew! They are doing so well this summer and so excited for school to start. Can you believe we have only a month before we are going to bed earlier (well the kids anyway!) packing lunches, and doing homework! I am going to miss not living by a schedule and hanging out at the park or the beach with the kids. Brooklynn told me the other day, "mom, I love our life" made me feel so good about what we were able to do together.

All the stores are gearing up their back to school shelves. I love the smell of new crayons, and crisp paper. I am sad but excited that both of my babies will be in school this year. Andrew is so excited, he is more pumped to go to pre-school than I am to send him. It's a new chapter in our life, now both will be in school, and this will be our life planning around school schedules.

We had a yard sale a couple weeks ago now, and my let me tell you, I purged a lot of things! I was able to put the profits towards a new grill, a big boy bike for Andrew, a dinner date to Chuckie Cheese, a trip to Sam's with lots of goodies, and a few other miscellaneous things! If you are having a yard sale or want tips on how to do one, I have had a few and don't mind lending out tips/plans! This last sale went down like a science and we made out pretty well for what I took out! Two boxes left over went to goodwill!

What else has gone on? Oh yes, we had a couple look at our house, and yes we are working with a realtor. (No I don't think it is a house for them, as they have to sell one too) Now is when I really need to de-clutter and get rid of all the little keepsakes. Get rid of kids clothes and remember all the fun memories that I had with the kids, not the clothes~ I am making strides people! I am in no way a hoarder, but I have trouble getting rid of my babies coming home outfits, some of Brooklynn's dresses....two of them are still hard for me, one was worn to my Grandma's funeral, and the other one was worn to my Uncle's funeral. Neither event does my daughter remember, but I do, I remember thinking I should be here in Elder Beerman buying these dresses. I have been thinking about them a lot these last couple of weeks. It definitely comes in waves, missing and thinking about those we love that are now living in Heaven. So yes, back to the clutter, I have a goal for getting that out of the way too, maybe I need a coach to talk me through all of it...lol!!! So the realtor didn't need to tell me our house was consumed with kids things....not necessarily her words, but she laughed with me and said I know you know you need to go through things.....umm yes, we have a three and five year old. They have taken over the house exactly five years ago! :) But I love it!

Oh Chip and I have started trying to eat better and "diet". Chip has cut out sodas and watching his, portions, and has lost 26lbs in about three weeks (AWESOME!)I haven't lost 26lbs, wouldn't that be amazing, but I have lost seven. Seems so small compared to what he has lost! For me life is settling down now and I'm ready to re-start my weight loss adventure... and maintain it this time! For good. I'm done having children and I'm ready to start the next phase of my life: the healthy, fit, and energetic mom and wife! I'll keep you up to date on this new journey too!

Other than just hanging out and doing crafts and playing games this has been our summer! Brooklynn is a Bronze Babe, and Andrew is slightly tan (I really lather him up!) I have been burnt badly only once, yes this is an ongoing battle with me getting burnt, and we have had a blast! This week I am packing for my brother's wedding, and the plan is to start packing for our vacation (the last week of August)! I have my lists made out and I am getting SO excited!

Hope you all are having a wonderful summer! I will be posting more this week!

Mommy Pads Winner!

2010-06-11T06:49:00.000-07:00

Using Random.org the winner of the Mommy Pads & More, is Daun Family!

I will be contacting you by email, if I don't hear from you in 24 hours I will do another drawing for a new winner.

If you didn't win, please remember to go on over an check out more items that Susie has to offer!

As an extra incentive Susie is offering my readers a 15% off code to use at your checkout: MOMMY

Have a wonderful day! And again, thank you to Susie for providing a product for me to review and giveaway!

Mommy Pads and More! Review and Giveaway!

2010-06-02T06:32:00.001-07:00

Today I get to introduce to you a wonderful website! Susie is the owner of Mommy Pads & More she started by helping a friend out with her custom stamp business and then she got the itch to do her own thing too! Susie offers fun and stylish designs, ranging from notepads, stationary, stamps, and necklaces!
Any of these would be a great for teacher appreciation gifts, for that new mom in your life, a hostess or housewarming gift, the list could go on! I had the opportunity to get one of their mommy pads to review. One thing I love is cute stationary! I am addicted to making lists and it is so much better and motivating on stylish paper! Anyone else thrive on the addiction of making lists? When I was given the opportunity to choose what design I wanted, I had a hard time picking just one! I loved so many, so I decided on two and let Susie pick!

I was very happy with my personalized mommy pad! I chose to have all of our names listed at the bottom of the pad, and they are in coordinating colors! I have been using it non-stop! I am getting excited to order more! I am pleased with the quality of the paper (24lb), and how easy it is to tear off. Each of the notepads consists of 50 sheets.

Guess What? Mommy Pads & More is offering one of my LUCKY readers a personalized stamp or notepad of their choice (retail value up to $32).

Ways to Enter:

You must be a public follower

Go to Mommy Pads & More and tell me what you would like to win !

(1 entry-Mandatory, please leave your email so I can contact you if you win!)

Follow Mommy Pads & More on Facebook-

(2-entries- leave a comment on their fb page so I can check!)

Blog about this giveaway! (3-entries)

The winner will be chosen on June 9th, 2010 at 10PM. I will use random.org and will contact the winner via email.

Thank you Susie, for allowing me to do this review and giveaway!

Winners!

2010-05-25T11:05:00.000-07:00

Using Random.org the winners are:

(drum roll)

The winner of the Trading Phrases giveaway is Cari~ Congrats!!!

The winner of the Seventh Generation giveaway is Laura~ Congrats!!!

I will be contacting you ladies by email, if I don't hear from you in 24 hours, I will do another drawing for a new winner~

Remember if you didn't win, please go and check out their products! I am sure you will not be disappointed in either of these companies! Have a wonderful day!

Another special thanks to Trading Phrases and Seventh Generation for giving me the products to sample and giveaway!

Blessings

Seventh Generation Review and Giveaway!

2010-05-18T07:05:00.000-07:00

I have been interested in finding great products that are environmentally safe, I have recently found Seventh Generation. I had been hearing some buzz about them online, but didn't know how they would do compared to my other products! Let's just say I am happy! Meghan from Seventh Generation let me pick out a kit to review and giveaway, I decided to try their Healthy Home Kit. I love spring cleaning, and I love a fresh cleaned smell that comes with this time of year! I also love that I can feel so much better knowing that I am using products that are safe for the environment and for my family! Not only are they safe but they are just as effective too!

Healthy Home Starter Kit
Disinfecting Multi-Surface (Lemongrass & Thyme)
Disinfecting Bathroom (Lemongrass & Thyme)
Disinfecting Wipes - 35 ct. (Lemongrass and Thyme)
All-Purpose - Free & Clear
Glass - Free & Clear
Shower - Green Mandarin & Leaf
Toilet - Emerald Cypress & Fir
Tub & Tile - Emerald Cypress & Fir

Natural Paper Towels
Seventh Gen Recycled Bag

All of Seventh Generation's products are non-toxic and biodegradable, hypo-allergenic, they aren't tested on animals, and they are also kosher-certified. Seventh Generation discloses all of their product ingredients on their website, and all of their paper products are comprised of 100% recycled paper.

I have been using the Seventh Generation cleaning products for the past two weeks and already I'm thoroughly impressed. The products pack a serious cleaning punch, while not leaving our home laden with the typical chemical-heavy post-cleaning smells. I don't have to worry if Andrew has followed me into the bathroom as I am cleaning, and I have discovered that Chip and I like certain scents, they are all great but I love the Green Mandarin & Leaf and the Emerald Cypress & Fir. To put it simply: I'm a believer, and I think you will be too as soon as you try some of their products.
I love the disinfecting multi-surface cleaner! I have used it on my floors, my refrigerator, to clean the sink (my quick swipe-Fly Lady), and to wipe down walls (removed crayon!). So, I have been able to test it out daily all over my home and I haven't been disappointed! I even used it to clean up red juice that was spilled on my white kitchen counter top and it cleaned right up with no staining, I normally use bleach to get those stains up on my counter top.
The only thing out of the kit that I am not sure I would purchase in bulk would be the natural paper towels. I don't use a lot of paper towels because I use towels, but when testing out the paper towels I noticed that they didn't last as long a roll I normally buy. Although the ones I buy are not eco-friendly. I was still happy with the product, but that is the only negative thing I noticed about the paper towels.

GIVEAWAY:

Seventh Generation is giving you the same kit I received!
To Enter: Tell me what you do to be more green! (Please leave your email on this post)

Additional Entries:
(Leave separate comments, please)
Follow: Follow my Blog Publicly (3-entries)
Post: Post a Blog about this giveaway (3-entries)
Button: Add my button to your page (Leave me a link to your site) (2-Entries)
Facebook: Become a Fan of Seventh Generation (1 Entry)

The giveaway will end 5/24 at 10pm. I will email and announce the winner. The winner will have 24 hours to respond back to me, or I will have to use random.org to pick another winner. Seventh Generation will send your product directly to you!
Good Luck and I trust you will enjoy their product as much as I have!
A special thank you to Seventh Generation for providing the Home Starter Kit for me to review and giveaway!

Trading Phrases Review and Giveaway!

2010-05-18T06:16:00.000-07:00

I have to be honest I have a new addiction! I am in love with wall art. I like the idea that I am not putting holes in the wall and I can be in complete control of the size and colors of the art that I choose. I was given the opportunity to review some art from Trading Phrases, I decided to choose the Laughter sparkles like a splash of water in sunlight, I chose it in white because I wanted to put it on a yellow background. I also decided to try this not on the wall but a painted canvas. I had not heard if it was possible to do this, and wasn’t sure what the results would be but I am pleased to say that if you don’t want to put it on your walls or want something with more dimensions then you can put it on other materials. I started with a blank canvas, and then painted it sunshine yellow, after allowing it to dry I then applied a portion of the wall art. It went on seamlessly!

“Trading Phrases is a family-owned company located in Columbus, Ohio which specializes in creating beautiful vinyl lettering designs for your home or business.
The name Trading Phrases was inspired by one of our favorite television shows, Trading Spaces, which aired for eight years on TLC. The “trading” aspect of our name fits perfectly as our designs make special gifts for weddings, new babies, or anniversaries. Consider purchasing one of our designs as a gift for your child’s first college apartment or dorm room, a housewarming party, or to commemorate any of life’s other milestones. “Phrases” is our name’s counterpart because our vinyl lettering creates beautiful designs using words, phrases, sayings, and memorable quotations. We also offer custom designs where we can turn your special saying or memory into extraordinary artwork.
Whether you are purchasing one of our designs for your home or the home of someone you love, Trading Phrases can help you turn an ordinary wall into a unique work of art. We take pride in offering only the finest products to our customers.”

Trading Phrases has an endless selection of wall lettering, quotes, and graphics that you can choose from. They not only provide quality items, they provide very easy and clear instructions for applying the vinyl wall lettering. I was able to apply the quote to my canvas alone, and it looks as if someone professional had applied it! The nice thing about all vinyl lettering is that it is removable and will not damage your walls. So if you are in an apartment or planning on moving you do not need to worry about it being a lifetime commitment, it is a breeze to remove.

To Buy: You can order directly from Trading Phrases

To Win: Trading Phrases is giving one of my readers: Don't Spend Your Life, in Yellow Green, size 5.5x24

To Enter: Head over to the Trading Phrases website and tell me what some of your other favorite designs are. (Please leave your email on this post)

Additional Entries:

(Leave separate comments, please)
Follow: Follow my Blog Publicly (3-entries)
Post: Post a Blog about this giveaway (3-entries)
Button: Add my button to your page (Leave me a link to your site) (2-Entries)
Facebook: Become a Fan of Trading Phrases (1 Entry)

The giveaway will end 5/24 at 10pm. I will email and announce the winner. The winner will have 24 hours to respond back to me, or I will have to use random.org to pick another winner. Trading Phrases will send your product directly to you!

Good Luck and I trust you will enjoy their product as much as I have!

A special thank you to Trading Phrases for providing a product for me to review and giveaway!

Menu Planning Monday~

2010-05-10T06:45:00.001-07:00

Wow, I know I haven't done this for a little bit now, sorry, but working thirds is proving to be really busy! Instead of sitting and writing or answering emails I am finding myself playing with my kids and trying, and I do mean "trying", to keep the house as orderly as possible! So as I sit here and type this out, I have a basket full of socks to sort, and my list of to do's today is growing! But while Andrew is watching Dinosaur Train I am typing fervently! I am going to get this written and then start my post for giveaways this week! Keep your eyes open for this!

So this week is very busy as well, I am working M-W nights, off Thursday and then working F-Sat! All 12 hour shifts....yes did I tell you I am busy???

With working so much this week I am going to be cooking a lot this afternoon and prepping for this week, in order to make it easier for Chip! You will also see more crock pot meals this week too~ just makes it super easy for dinner for Chip!

Breakfasts:

Cereal, Eggs/Toast, Muffins, Breakfast Cookies, Homemade Granola Bars

Lunches:

Mac&Cheese, Soup, PB&J, Leftovers, Quesadillas, Salad

Dinners: (In no order)

Baked Chicken and Rice and Broccoli Casserole (easy to mix up ahead and then stick in the oven!)

Meatloaf with potatoes and carrots

Lemon Pepper Tilapia with Rice and Green Beans

Pot Roast with potatoes and carrots (Crock pot!)

Crock pot Santa Fe Chicken with Rice

Chicken Alfredo with green beans

Pancakes/French Toast with bacon

Snacks:

Celery with PB, Homemade Granola Bars, Applesauce, Carrots with Ranch, Smoothies!

Okay! So this is our week, check out Laura's page to see other's weekly menus! I have my tasks for the week and yes I will be posting more regularly! I am trying to find a happy medium of working, being a mom, and a blogger! Hope you all have a great week and I hope your Mother's Day was filled with special moments and memories!!!

Kidorable Umbrella Winner!

2010-05-04T06:10:00.001-07:00

Using Random.org, the winner is #2 Karen.

Congrats!!! Have a wonderful evening, and Tanya from Kidorable will be sending you your Dinosaur umbrella!!!

If you didn't happen to win, go and check out Kidorable! Their products are adorable and I am sure your kids will love them!

Thank you again to Tanya for giving Brooklynn the Ladybug Rain Set to review!

ListPlanIt Winner!

2010-04-26T18:06:00.000-07:00

Using Random.org, #20, Kristi is the winner!

Congrats!!! Have a wonderful evening, and Jennifer from ListPlanIt will be emailing you with your membership information!!!

If you didn't happen to win, and lists are right up your alley, go to ListPlanIt.com and sign up for your own year membership!

Thank you again to Jennifer for giving me a promotional membership for the review!

Kidorable Review and Giveaway!

2010-04-25T13:04:00.000-07:00

Spring time is extra fun with kids! I have to tell you how much fun we are having planning our garden, discovering how things are growing, and discovering nature in general! I love that my kids enjoy the outdoors sooo much and that they love to discover and have adventures outside! With that being said, I want my kids to have fun being kids! I have found a company that will allow my kids to have fun with appropriate accessories! I have found a wonderful company that allows kids to have a blast outside, while saving their clothes too! We were sent the most adorable Kidorable Rain Gear to review! Brooklynn was able to do her FIRST review for the blog! She was very excited to be sent items for her to test out! Brooklynn was sent the ladybug rain coat, umbrella, and rain boots! Here is Brooklynn opening her packages!
(Don't forget to pause the music on the sidebar!)

Now granted Brooklynn has no trouble dressing herself, we knew this from an early age, but the boots are very easy to put on. I am sure that Andrew would be able to do it all by himself, and I do plan on buying some for Andrew too!

The rain coat is very detailed, and appears to be very durable. The rain coat is very easy for Brooklynn to put on and snap, and the two pockets on the front are zippered. I like the length of the coat, it is longer than most rain coats she has tried on, which protects more of her clothing, a huge plus in my book!

The umbrella is very detailed as well, and makes the rest of the ensemble come together! I like that it is very easy for Brooklynn to manipulate, she has done it many times since and still hasn't caught her fingers or had any mishaps.

Kidorable has a lot of styles to choose from, both for boys and girls. Andrew has his eyes on a couple of designs, once he finalizes what he would like we are putting in his order!
Kidorable has way more than just Rain Gear though, you can deck your little ones out in just about any outdoor accessory that you could ever want. Sun hats and towels for hot days on the beach, scarves and gloves for snowy winter fun. Kidorable has every season, every temperature covered.

Kidorable is giving one of my readers an umbrella of your choice!

To enter, leave me a comment of which umbrella you would choose, this will be the umbrella you will receive should you win! (please enter your email with this comment)

Extra Entries:
Become a follower of my blog. (1 entry)
Grab my button (1-entry)
Become a Fan of Kidorable on facebook (1-entry)
Blog about this entry and link back here (2-entries)

This review will end May 3rd at 10pm. The winner will be chosen using Random.org
Thanks to Kidorable for giving us the rain gear for our review!

snackTAXI Review!

2010-04-22T06:09:00.000-07:00

This week, and from now on, I am making an effort to make a choice that will count! I am now attempting to take action trying to be kinder to our Earth! I guess you could say I am trying to be more conscious about what we throw out, etc. I have really been interested in looking into our carbon footprint. So with this in mind I am excited to tell you about this amazing product I was given the chance to review. Erin from the Snack Taxi, sent me two samples to review! Here is a picture of what I got:

(Andrew wanted me to take a picture of the inside of the sandwich sack!)
Here are some Snack Taxi facts:

Erin from snackTAXI, started her company in 2003, when she had 3 kids in school and was packing over 500 lunches every year! I decided to Google just how many baggies are used worldwide and they are even bigger numbers than what is included on the card from snackTAXI. SnackTAXI stated that each year and estimated 500 billion to 1 trillion plastic bags are consumed worldwide (that’s over 1 million per minute). Even at these numbers I am very concerned. Worldwide, an estimated 4 billion plastic bags end up as litter each year, tied end to end, that’s enough to circle the Earth 63 times. Using these reusable bags we have the potential to eliminate an average of 1000 plastic bags over its lifetime.
SnackTAXI have 100% cotton exterior, and are lined with nylon, both of which are free of lead and phthalates. Taking care of the snackTAXI’s is easy, they can be machine washed and dried, or you can wash them with water and air dry them. They do last longer when washed by hand, like anything! I put in a peanut butter sandwich the first time I used it and noticed it was really sticky, but instead of washing in the washer I tried their tip of filling it with hot water and letting it stand in the sink, when I came back, it was incredibly easy to clean!
I like the idea of not using plastic baggies anymore, and I have to tell you at their prices it isn’t breaking the bank either. Here are their prices: snack sacks are 6.95, sandwich sacks are 8.95, lunch sacks are 13.95, and their napkins are 3.95. They do have bags for bulk produce and snacks for 5.95. When you think about how many baggies you use over the year, they will pay for themselves in a couple months!

I honestly think that this product is going to be great for our home. We have only used these for lunch and snack for school, but the plan is to buy more for all of us to use. I plan on using the snack sacks for work, and I am going to get more of the sandwich sacks to take with us to the beach this summer!

SnackTAXI is offering a 20% off coupon code in honor of Earth Day. But this is only valid now until April 23 (and can’t be used on specials). Just enter EDAY2010 at checkout!

Leave a comment and let me know what you think about this product! Have a wonderful day!
Blessings~

Thank you to snackTAXI for giving me the two samples to review!

$20 Company Store Gift Code!

2010-04-20T14:22:00.000-07:00

I have to tell you about something that is amazing! I found this code today and when you enter it you get $20 off your order, no set amount you have to spend either to get this off, well at least $20! :)

Here it is, head on over to the Company Store

Enter coupon code: SLUMBER and enjoy a free $20~

I have already done this twice, I used it for two shirts and two shorts for Brooklynn only paying shipping $5.95 and then again for a dress that was on sale with free shipping for $9! So for $14.95 total out of pocket I have five items for Brooklynn, the clothes at regular price would normally ring up at $97 without tax and shipping....what a steal! It's like paying $2.99 an item! Check out their sale of the day to get in on these deals!

These are the pictures of one of the shirts and shorts!

Don't forget to check out my giveaway for ListPlanIt!

ListPlanIt Giveaway and Review!

2010-04-20T11:53:00.001-07:00

Does your life seem hectic and could use a personal organizer?! Sometimes when things get so busy here I feel scattered, almost like leaves falling in disarray during the fall! You know when your leaves fall in your backyard, first it's pretty and the kids love to play in them, and you get great pictures! Then it seems annoying and like the clutter will never leave your yard! AHHH~ okay enough with that analogy, because I could go on, for example what the wind then does...okay really stopping!

Many of you know I love making lists, I have tons of them! Chip will often joke that making lists is a hobby of mine! I have great plans in mind, and boy do I ever plan to achieve each and every item on my lists! I get giddy being able to cross things off my list! Sometimes I am bummed that I have only crossed off a few items, but am overall really excited to accomplish things! Sometimes they get overwhelming because I didn't have a designated way to sort out all my ideas! Thus came my project to start a home journal/binder. I have implemented a new Home Binder all complete with lists! I have a recipe section, meal planning, house cleaning, schedules/routines, etc. I have become inspired at how easy this was to set up using ListPlanIt! Anyone can do it and I am amazed at how much more I can actually accomplish.

Okay so I have to tell you, Jennifer, of ListPlanIt, gave me a year membership to try out and navigate and review for my readers! I was a little overwhelmed as to where to start when I opened the site. I tackled some of the ideas and pages that she has available; there are over400 lists!!! With so many lists, it enables you to keep your world in order and less chaotic (remember my leaves analogy?) The lists I have hit, are family matters, home, meal planning, finances, contacts, and so much more! The lists are in a pdf format so it is incredibly easy to print and edit! Some of the lists I am not sure if I will use, but who's to say that you wouldn't use them! The lists that I will use on a regular basis will definitely help me manage our house and allow more time to focus on being a great mom and wife! Living on purpose with a plan~

Of course like everything else, you can print things up, but you have to be intentional when doing so. In order for them to be helpful for your family, you have to use them. Jennifer makes this task very easy, by being able to customize each list to your needs. Which because of the ease of this product, I will and have used it much more than I thought at first!

I love that you can choose what type of membership you want and what will work for you and your family. For me, I think the download membership will work out perfectly throughout the years. I like the ability on the download membership that you can type on the lists and then print them out. I know that I haven't even come close to looking and finding all the lists that I want to utilize, but that is the fun of the year membership!

All in all, I think as long as I revert to this way of making lists and organizing it will work! Anyone can use this and if you are interested in becoming organized this a great resource for every household!

Jennifer, was kind enough to offer one of my readers a free membership as well! So here is how you enter:

First, and mandatory entry, go to ListPlanIt: come back and tell me what lists catch your eye and would be most beneficial to you and your family. (Please leave your email so I can contact you if you should win!) 1-Entry

Additional Ways to Enter:
Follow my blog (1-entry)
Follow ListPlanIt on Facebook (1-entry)
Add my button to your page (2-entries)
Post about this giveaway and link it back to my blog (3-entries)

(Please leave separate comments for each entry!)
The winner will be chosen using Random.org, and announced on Monday April 26th at 10PM!

Thank you to Jennifer with ListPlanIt for giving me a download membership to review and giving one of my readers the opportunity to win a membership of their own!

Abraham Lincoln

2010-04-20T10:15:00.000-07:00

A friend of mine sent me this quote:

I remember my mother's prayers and they have always followed me. They have clung to me all my life. ~Abraham Lincoln

I want to be a mom that leaves a legacy in my children. What does this legacy look like to me? For me, it is that truth matters, that prayer works, and that there is POWER in HIS word! I want them to know that they don't have to be the most popular to be admirable to God. I want them to see my heart and yearn to live life out for HIM. I want them to see a woman that DIVES into the word, I want them to see me yearning for more, fervently turning the pages, finding God in every crevice of His words. I want them to "carry" my prayer life. Chip will tell you; I pray through everything, and I talk with Him, even when I am not happy, when I need Him, I cry out to my sweet Jesus, I discuss things daily with Him. I want them to see this, and not be afraid to pray, ask, and seek HIM daily. I want to be a good example of a wife and mother. I want my words and actions to be most of all edifying to God, but importantly an example of how they should live.

So what do I need to work on? Everything we do and say is a model to our children. This can be a daunting task, full of pressure? I am praying that God will use me and equip me with the ability to raise my children as He would. I lift my hands in an offering to Him to lead my children!

Right On The Walls Winner!!!

2010-04-20T05:06:00.000-07:00

Using Random.org, comment #25 is the winner, Leigh! Leigh, I am sending an email out to you! Please respond by Wednesday at 5pm! Leigh I hope you enjoy picking out some art for your home!

Thank you all so much for entering! Stay tuned, I am putting up two more giveaways today!!!

Remember that if you didn't win, you still have the 15% off code to use: BR15DCT! So head on over and enjoy picking out something wonderful for your home!

Right On The Walls

Again, Thank you to Right On The Walls for allowing me to do this giveaway, and providing me with the product to review!

Menu Planning Monday!

2010-04-18T19:55:00.000-07:00

Hey there! Last week went by so fast, and this week is busy with way too many tasks to tackle! I have my list to get organized, and I eager to cross many things off my list! Hey slow and steady wins the race right :) Monday is going to be a really busy day~ I have to be in GR at the hospital in the morning (work), Brooklynn is sick and will be staying home tomorrow from school....and then when I get home, I have a lot to do for the house~ Stay tuned for my new giveaway that will open tomorrow morning, because it will help with your organizing and stress! This week I will have two giveaways open, I am sure you will like both items! I have each day planned out on what I am writing about along with my work schedule!
So on the top of my list is to plan the meals for this week...(at least I can cross this off now!)

Breakfasts:

Today: Biscuits and Gravy

T-F: Cereal, Oatmeal, Eggs/Toast, Smoothies

Sat: Pancakes

Sun: Eggs/Bacon/Toast

Lunches:

Leftover Mexican, Ham and Cheese Melts, Tuna Sandwiches, Soup, Salads

Dinners:

M: Pepsi Pot Roast (New Recipe from Kristen!)

T: Meatloaf with roasted peppers/carrots/celery and potatoes

W: Crock Pot Chicken with Italian Seasoning (saving the juices for stock)

Th: Veggie Tortellini Bake

F: Using our "Free" coupon for Pizza

Sat: Homemade Mac & Cheese with veggies!

Sun: Black Eyed Pea Soup with Corn Bread

Hope you have a wonderful week planned out with your meals!

Don't forget today is the last day to enter for the Right On The Walls Giveaway!

Pampers Gift To Grow

2010-04-15T19:17:00.001-07:00

Are you a member of Pampers Gift To Grow? If you are, I have 10 extra points for you! Here is your code to enter: getstartednow10

You can use these points to earn free things! Enjoy and if you aren't a Gift To Grow member but you buy Pampers, you are missing out, it is super easy and you can get some fun things! My favorite is the Starbucks Gift Card. (currently out right now, but I am holding out!)

IDEA!

2010-04-13T14:56:00.001-07:00

Okay so my husband checks on my blog every so often and this is really with him in mind!
I have a wonderful idea!!!!! I want to be like this couple Marlo and Fran Cowan (married for 63 years!)! So in order to do this, I think we not only need to do our devotions, but I think it would be SO much fun to take piano lessons together! Maybe this could be our new years resolution next year! Take a look at this video, while they were at the Mayo clinic waiting for an appointment they did this for everyone! (Really a great story!)
(Remember to pause the music on the sidebar)

Menu Planning Monday!

2010-04-12T08:29:00.000-07:00

So here is my plan for this week, I have now been going to SNAP fitness, it works for my schedule because it is open 24 hrs a day....but I should be there more often....so I figure if I write it out I will held accountable! I plan on working out every night for 1 hour(M-F). Despite recently hurting my leg, I think that I should be able to do this! On Saturday I will be cleaning someones house in the morning, and then right after since I will already be in workout clothes attire, I will head to the SNAP right by their house. On Sunday I am not going to commit to working out, if I do great if I don't I haven't failed right! Also, I will be cooking things and know what my point value will be, but I am mainly trying to cut down my portions! Going off of soda for lent was good for me, I don't crave one like I used to, I actually have only had a few, and went back to Diet Coke Caffeine Free! I would much rather have Iced Tea (unsweetened) or a PowerAde! We will see if that does anything to help me lose some of this weight!

Remember to check out the giveaway for this week!

I am a little late in posting this, but here is our menu for this week! If you are interested in looking at other menu's check out Laura's blog~

Breakfasts:

Eggs, Oatmeal, Cereal, Toast, Pancakes, muffins~

Lunches:

BLT's, Salad, Grilled Cheese, Left Overs, Mac&Cheese

Snacks: Fruit and Yogurt Smoothie (3 pts), Homemade Granola, Yogurt, Pudding

Dinners:

Monday: Bow tie Pasta with Broccoli and Chicken

Tuesday: Ribs, Baked Potatoes, Green Beans

Wednesday: Tilapia, Rice and Peas

Thursday: Crockpot Vegetable Soup and cornbread

Friday: Sausage Green Beans and Potatoes

Saturday: Chicken with Rice and Broccoli Casserole

Sunday: Hamburger and Hot Dog Cookout, Potato Salad, Homemade Strawberry Shortcake

Right On The Walls! GiveAway~

2010-04-11T13:40:00.000-07:00

If you like to decorate your house or apartment and want some great ideas at a reasonable price I have an option for you! Right On The Walls is a family owned business that specializes in unique artwork. I am very pleased with the quality and plan on purchasing more items for other rooms! Right On The Walls has great customer service and has hundreds of designs to pick from and will even custom design something to fit your taste and home! I think my next purchase for my house will be for the kids! They have had a chance to go through the artwork and are in love with items for their rooms! My brother is getting married in a few months and I am sure I will be buying them some wall art too! They also have some adorable art for glass! I love this just married sticker!

Right On The Walls generously sent me "A picture is worth a thousand words..." to review. Before this I had never applied wall art before, and when the instructions said it would take less than ten minutes to apply their products I was a little nervous! I thought sure, I am doing this alone and I am positive it will take longer....well it didn't! Right On The Walls makes it easy including step by step instructions, and with the letters pre-spaced. I couldn't have messed it up! Here are a couple pictures.

Applying the vinyl art was easy and required very little effort and time on my part. The only issue I had was that in some of the areas that obviously didn't get rubbed on enough wasn't sticking to the wall. All I did was had to stop and then re-rub again, really not hard, but I was worried that it may come off after the transfer paper was removed. (Which didn't happen!) I am very impressed with my choice of art! I love to take pictures and to have that saying is perfect above our picture frames!

Right On The Walls not only has an easy application, if you are in an apartment or moving, it isn't hard to take off...and won't take off paint. You can simply go over it lightly with a hair dryer set to low, and then remove with the application tool that is included and it will lift each letter from the wall~ Perfect right!

Right On The Walls is offering one of my readers the opportunity to win a $40 Gift Certificate to put towards a purchase!

Right On The Walls ships USPS Priority Mail all over the world. Shipping is not included in the $40 coupon code prize. Shipping within the US is $5.80 and shipping outside the US is based on weight, typically $18-$25.

As an extra bonus for my readers, they have created a special discount code to use on any purchase. You can get some wall art for yourself for 15% off your purchase. Here is the code: BR15DCT. So see even if you don't win the $40 you can still get 15% off!

How to enter:

Visit Right On The Walls and choose your favorite item and then come back here and tell me about it! (Mandatory Entry please leave your email in this entry!)

Extra Ways to Enter:

Follow my Blog (2 Entries)

Become a Fan of Right On The Walls on Facebook! (1 Entry)

Blog about this Giveaway (4 Entries, leave a link!)

Give Away will end on Monday April 19th 11PM. The winner will be chosen using Random.org. I will announce and email the winner that evening! Good luck, and again a special THANK YOU to Right On The Walls for providing me with a product to review and the giveaways!

Brooklynn's Adventure~

2010-04-10T13:43:00.000-07:00

So, Brooklynn has been begging for some skates. We decided to get her first pair of skates yesterday! Although today was really windy, we ventured out this morning and tried them out! She did good, especially since she has never been on skates prior to this! Brooklynn is such a thrill seeker, and loves adventures. Brooklynn loves to succeed at everything she does (unfortunately I think that is seeded from me), so even though she wouldn't tell anyone I could sense she was getting a little frustrated that she didn't master it the first time. I took this moment to let her know just HOW PROUD I was of her! She only fell a few times, but wouldn't allow me to take her skates off. With the wind it was a little tough not being shaky. Here are a couple pictures, I have to admit, I LOVED that Andrew was trying to hold Brooklynn's hand and help her to the steps. It is such an honor to be their parents, I am blessed to be their mom!

I have a button!

2010-04-10T11:25:00.000-07:00

I am really excited, as much as I don't want to admit it, I had NO clue how to get a button, and when someone wanted one after I did their review, I was starting to stress out a bit....but I figured, despite looking silly, I would ask another blogger! So, I contacted Angie! She graciously helped me out, she not only designed it to look like my blog but she had the codes ready to put on my blog! THANKS so much Angie!!!! You are amazing!

Here it is!

Winner of the Ball Claw!

2010-04-08T20:34:00.001-07:00

Using Random.org, #12 Miranda you are the winner of a Basketball Ball Claw! I hope this helps with keeping your sons basketball off the floor~ I am also sure that once you put up the claw that you will want to go back and buy the others!

Again, thank you John, and the Ball Claw for giving me the set of ball claws to review.

To get your own ball claws head on over!

Blessings!

Menu Planning Monday!

2010-04-04T19:07:00.000-07:00

This week starts a whole new "light" but filling menu for me! I am going to be making things and have point value with each item, well most every meal! My intention is to have a responsibly healthy menu! So I will be pulling menu ideas from weight watchers, and I will be posting my own meals too!!

Also don't forget I do have a giveaway going on until April 8! Enter here to win!

Breakfasts and Lunches will primarily be the same as the weeks prior~

Dinners:

Chicken Quesadillas with Corn Salad (6 points per serving)

Corn Salad- 1 C corn, 1/2 green bell pepper, 1/2 tomato, 2 T chopped cilantro, 2t balsamic vinegar, 1/4 t salt.

Quesadillas- 1 1/2 C cooked chicken, 1 C lettuce, 1/2 C salsa, 6 flour tortillas, 1/3 C shredded cheese.

Honey-Mustard Pork Chops (5 points) with green beans (1 pt. a cup)

4 Pork chops (1-inch thick), 4t honey, 1/4 C Dijon mustard, 1t cider vinegar, 1/4 t salt, fresh ground pepper.

Grilled Chicken, broccoli, and rice

Corn and Bacon Chowder (4 points) Corn Bread (2 points)

2 slices bacon, cut, 2T+2t water, 1 onion chopped, 1/2 yellow bell pepper chopped, 2 1/2 C Basic Chicken Stock, 2 medium potatoes (cubed and peeled), 2C corn, 1/4 C light cream

Caesar Salad (1 point unless adding croutons then 3 points)

Layered Mexican Chicken (6 points)

Cheesy Hash Brown Chili

This week the kids and I are going to be having fun in the kitchen! I have some great ideas for them, and they will get to wear their aprons almost everyday! They are so excited for this week! I will be posting pictures!

WE ARE PEOPLE OF FAITH!

2010-04-03T19:39:00.000-07:00

We can face uncertain days BECAUSE HE LIVES!
Blessings to you on this EASTER SUNDAY, may you be filled with HIS presence today!

(Remember to pause the music on the sidebar!)

Just a twitch of the nose!

2010-04-03T14:25:00.000-07:00

Oh the thought of the simplicity of twitching my nose and everything falling into place, organized, and looking perfect! Can you imagine! I would be so relaxed, and know where everything is at and never stress!

So you remember the show Bewitched with Samantha?

Okay, so I am not wanting to be a witch, but I remember thinking when I was young that all I needed to do was figure out how to twitch my nose! :) Of course, I knew this wasn't real, and I still sometimes think it would be fun, but obviously nothing more than a fantasy!

So how do I do it? It seems daunting some days....but I have to do it all myself, I am the one responsible, and I have to find strength! It's tough to muster sometimes, but I love cleaning, but (hate) well that is a strong word, I get frustrated that it never stops! I know that praying helps with my frustrations, and I KNOW that it is okay to just stop for a while and enjoy my kids! Breaks are needed and they love to be outside and walk/ride their bikes!

I have my basement lined with boxes of things to giveaway, sell, and then I am going to attempt a yard sale this year....despite my husbands wishes! I am pricing things right now, tons of .25 items and tons of great deals! I will be shocked if I end up with more than one box to take to goodwill afterwards! I want to get rid of things, and the kids are excited that they are going to get to spend the money!
I also have laundry that is calling my name downstairs, and it is SCREAMING~ I wish someone would tell it to speak nicely lol, or tell my family that more than one outfit a day isn't really necessary!

I also wish I could muster up enough energy to get the spring cleaning done in one day! (UNREALISTIC) I also want my walls to look clean without fingerprints and the two little holes fixed....ahhh, see here I go getting overwhelmed!

So what am I doing right now, I am making two lists, and I will be pulling tasks from these lists....one list is going to be daily, and the other is long term tasks that I am planning out. I will only take one a day and that way if I am really busy I won't feel stressed that I didn't get more than one thing crossed off my list. And if I am really over zealous that day then I get even more motivated by crossing off more than one!!! This coming week I will have one big task a day to take care of, like clean off the top of the fridge, organizing under the sink, etc! If I am not too embarrassed I will take a picture of the progress! I have some great ideas and organizing tips! I'll share those too!

I am eager to find out what keeps you motivated and what tasks you are working on!

Susan G. Komen 3 Day Walk~

2010-04-02T19:57:00.000-07:00

I am sure when you see this post, most everyone knows or will have some connection with a loved one with cancer. Cancer is such an awful disease, and one day I know we will have a breakthrough on preventing and treatments! Susan G Komen hosts a 3 Day (60 miles) Walk. I have a blogging friend, Julie, who is going to attend this event for the first time this year! I am so proud of her for taking on this challenge! Julie is walking for her mom, aunt, and grandma. This is a very personal walk for her and I know she is more than determined to raise money for the walk. Julie has been given items to auction off on her blog to support her in this journey. Walkers will generally raise $3,000, some set higher goals as a team! Please if you have a moment head over to Julie's blog and take a look at the items she has up right now. It is really easy to bid, I have my eye on a really CUTE purse!

Remember before playing this video to pause the music on my sidebar!

~Blessings and Prayers~

Ball Claw Review and GIVEAWAY

2010-04-02T05:23:00.000-07:00

It's Spring time here! And for our house that means we are in organization mode! I have tried many different ways to become more efficient about organizing, and some may know that I am very "OCD" about labeling and putting things where they belong. When things aren't put away or cleaned up, it isn't a comfortable living space. I have been in this declutter and organize mode for a while, and have been looking for great ideas to organize my house in a kid friendly way!(without going overboard!) So I have to share with you my newest discovery!

The Ball Claw

One of the Ball Claw's owner, John, gave our family the ball claw set to review. I have to admit, I wanted to wait for Chip to get home to hang these up, but they are so easy to install anyone can do it! He sent us the football, soccer ball, and basketball claws! Let me tell you, this summer there will be no balls rolling around on the floor or the driveway or in the yard! Literally all I have to do is push the ball into it's appropriate claw and it stays, no rolling/fussing with bulky bags for balls, etc.! This option of eliminating extra items for storage helps as we attached them to the wall!

There are other options for mounting. You can mount them in your garage, basement, or even on the walls in your house. Do you have a child that has a sports themed room?! This would be a great option in their room! Or if you have sports memorabilia it is a great way to display it while preserving the ball as well! The options are limitless. You can even mount the basketball claw to the basketball pole!

The ball claw is a quick and easy way to organize and keep your balls off the floor and rolling around your garage/kids rooms! Keep your frustrations low and stay organized with the Ball Claw, I can assure you that you won't be disappointed!

So now on to the GIVEAWAY!

John from the Ball Claw is giving one of my readers a Basketball Claw!

-High quality injection molded ABS plastic. -Holds 29.5" and 28.5" regulation basketballs. -Easy mounting with included hardware.

All you have to do to enter is, check out the ball claw, and leave me a comment about where you plan on putting your basketball claw! Please leave me your email in this post as well so I can contact you if you win! (1 entry)

For Additional Entries:

-Follow my blog (1 entry)

-Blog about this giveaway (2 entry's) leave me a link!

The Giveaway will end on April 8th, 2010 at 11 PM. The winner will be chosen by using random.org. Please leave separate comments for every eligible entry. The winner will be announced that evening! Thank you for participating and good luck!

Thank you so much John from, The Ball Claw, for giving me the opportunity to review your product!

Rachael Ray WINNER!

2010-03-31T19:29:00.000-07:00

I used the random.org and it produced #11 out of 90.

Terri said: If I win the Bubble & Brown bakeware, I'll take yellow:) I'm following your blog Lisa!

March 25, 2010 6:52 PM
CONGRATS TERRI !!!!

Again, thanks to all that entered to win! If you didn't win, please head over to CSN for more deals! They have tons of items at free shipping! I know I have gone back and plan to continue to use CSN. They have excellent customer service and are committed to their customers happiness!

ALSO: stay tuned, because I have three more giveaways lined up (one starting Friday!), and more have been emailed to me~ so you still have a chance to win something!!!

Terri: I will be contacting you for your address, and then CSN will be sending out your new bakeware. I believe Ashley with CSN will be in contact with you!

Blessings

Misikko Flat Iron REVIEW~

2010-03-30T17:46:00.000-07:00

Let me introduce you to my NEW amazing favorite tool (don't you just love the pink!)! Misikko gave me the wonderful opportunity to review the Hanna Professional Flat Iron 1". I am absolutly in love with this hair straightener. I was not blessed with the wash and go hair~I have very thick hair with a natural wave depending on the humidity and then it is curly/frizzy! Anytime that I get my hair done, they will thin it out and it seems like it takes no time for them to straighten it, of course she has a Chi professional flat iron, but I thought mine was good enough at home, also I use Aveda's hang straight (a straightening lotion) and it still isn't completely straight when I do it.

You may be thinking, what is Misikko? Misikko is a company that specializes in salon-quality styling products, hair dryers, curling irons, and flat irons (Hana, Chi, and FHI flat irons). The Hana Professional Flat Iron 1" has a two year warranty, it has ceramic and tourmaline plates-which offers the highest protection against ionic damage and smoothest plates. The Hana flat iron has a 450 degree max temperature, so you can adjust the heat for fine or extremely coarse hair! There is a curved design perfect for straightening, flipping, and curling. Overall Best Flat Iron- thermal protection, performance and durability make this the best overall iron for both professional and home use! Right now you can purchase your own Hana Professional Flat Iron with free heat proof mat, on sale for $119.99! I have to admit this is well worth the price, especially if you visit the salon just to have your hair straightened! Imagine, you can do it yourself anytime you want with one in your own home!!!

Misikko has great customer service. I received my package and I was very eager to open it and give it a try! I was amazed at the presentation of the packaging, look at this:

Not only was I excited about trying out this new flat iron, but I was blessed by some extras as well! They included three scented roses, a bag of goodies (hand sanitizer, nail files, Colgate wisp's), the silicone mat and heatproof pouch. I also had a bottle of the Hana Shine Shield.

Seriously I was SHOCKED when I used the Hana Professional Flat Iron! There is a reason why this flat iron is ranked one of the best flat irons on the Misikko website! I didn't use my hang straight, because I thought I would see how it worked first and then evaluate what products I would need. I will let the pictures speak for themselves! It took me a total of 8-10 min to straighten my hair! I allowed my hair to airdry, and brushed it out before the pictures were taken. The flat iron smoothed my hair and made the look complete with being able to flip my ends, all with one tool! This flat iron left my hair feeling soft and looking great!

Here are the before and after pictures: (ACK!)

I have to tell you, after receiving this product, my hair will not be pulled back as much! With the little amount of time that I actually have to put into making my hair look outstanding, I will have no excuse!
Thank you so much Misikko for giving me the Hana Professional Flat Iron 1" to review!

Creations By Angi WINNERS!!

2010-03-30T05:51:00.000-07:00

Congrats to those that won! I used Random.org to generate the winners! Please send me your information (addresses) so that I can send out your items! Thanks so much for participating in this giveaway! Also a special thank you to Angi for allowing me to feature her on my blog!

And now to the winners!!

Julie said...Tooth Fairy Pillows, I am a fan, I also follow your blog..
http://julie-forthecure-auction.blogspot.com/
March 18, 2010 6:14 PM

You WON the TILE Necklace!

Kristen said... I LOVE Angi's bags! The diaper bags and purses are sooo cute!
March 18, 2010 6:34 PM

You WON the Bow!

Karen said... I follow you and I would like the boys themed bottle cap necklace, is it the scooby or can we pick from what she has on her site?
March 19, 2010 8:25 PM

You WON the Bottle Cap Necklace!

Again, thanks, enjoy your items! If you didn't win, take this time to go on over to Angi's page and pick out exactly what you would like!

Have you heard of Spokeo????

2010-03-29T09:53:00.001-07:00

Okay, today I went over to Melissa's blog, good thing! I read her post regarding a website that contains more information than my phone number and my address....it had pictures of my family, and recent pictures of my house, how recent you may ask.....about two weeks! SCARY! I was very disturbed not only by the pictures but all the personal information it had on there, including our income, etc.

Thankfully I was able to go to their privacy button at the bottom of the page and delete both my husbands and my information. Hopefully it will be a successful deletion!

To see yourself, go to www.spokeo.com and put your name in the search bar.....follow the directions to delete your information~

Hope this helps you~ Blessings!

Menu Planning Monday

2010-03-28T09:20:00.000-07:00

I am really excited about this weeks meals. I am only spending $25, yep that is right, and that $25 includes paper towels, and fun itmes too! So I am excited! I have mentioned that I need to re-organize my pantry, which I have not had the time to do (or made the time), but I have scheduled a block of time to do it tomorrow! So next weeks meals will be focused around the pantry! It is amazing, I will post pictures of the pantry before and after. I have a lot of room in there and I think I am addicted to buying pasta when it is on sale and I have coupons! Oh well, I will have a better functioning pantry when it is all said and done!

So here are this weeks meals! Also don't forget about the two giveaways I have going on, Angi's bow's, etc ends Monday tonight at 10pm and the Rachael Ray stoneware ends Wednesday!

Breakfast:

-Breakfast Casserole

-Eggs and Toast

-Pancakes

-Granola Bars (Homemade again this week)

-Cereal

-Oatmeal

-Grits

Lunches:

-PB&J, Homemade Pizza's, Grilled Cheese, Tuna Melts, Salad, Leftovers!

Dinners:

-Crockpot Swiss Roast and Homemade Mac&Cheese
-Baked Chicken, Corn Casserole, Green Beans
-Meatloaf with carrots, potatoes, celery
-Honey Baked Chicken, broccoli casserole
-Simple Turkey Chili
-Tilapia with lemon juice, green beans, salad, rice

Ingredients- tilapia fillets, 3 T lemon juice, 3T butter, 2 garlic cloves, dash of parsley, pepper

Directions: Preheat to 400, saute butter garlic and parsley, drizzle over fillets, bake for about 10 min. until the fish is flakey

-Southwest Chicken Salad

Ingredients-Black Beans, Head of lettuce, chopped green bell peper, 1 can of corn, shredded cheddar cheese, 2 cooked skinless boneless chicken breasts (cut in strips) tortilla chips (crushed), ranch dressing, salsa. (whatever you like you can top this salad!)

Directions: Heat the beans, toss together everything and top with beans chicken chips and dressing!

Have a wonderful week! Be blessed, and if you are interested in seeing more menu ideas check out Laura's blog!

Creations By Angi!

2010-03-25T07:27:00.000-07:00

I just got my things in the mail from Angi! Here is a picture of Brooklynn in her new hat I bought! She is so girly, this is perfect!

I also bought a few other bows, but here are the pictures of the giveaway items I know you are dying to see!

There is still plenty of time to enter the giveaway! Make sure you check it out!!! You have all day today and then tomorrow until 10pm! Enter here!
Blessings~

Busy Life?!

2010-03-25T05:40:00.000-07:00

When life gets busy, how do you slow down? I love to go for walks with the family, take a nice hot shower. In the summer I remember as a child helping out in the garden, and loving that time of unwinding/relaxation. Believe me that sounds weird, but I remember being out there with my dad and getting vegetables, and snapping beans/peas with my mom watching Golden Girls. I treasure those memories, I wish I could have "that" garden with my kids. You know my parents house is comfortable and quiet, it is a place where people gather and want to linger. I think we all want a place like that~ one that is a quiet haven from a busy world. My home, I feel, isn't "like" my parents. I strive for my house to be a home of worship and of rest and comfort, just like the example that I grew up with. My parents made it appear so easy, and now as a grown adult, I sometimes feel incapable. I know what I need to do, I know that I need to focus on certain areas to make it glimmer. But I allow the business and everyday life enter into our life and home. Sometimes wandering if the concept of rest and peace is but a figment of my imagination. :) When I start to doubt myself and how I am leading my children I have to look for encouragement from the scriptures. Because I have a tendency to worry and doubt and become overwhelmed by life, HE can comfort me. As I yearn for my life to be like my parents' example before me I am seeking God, knowing that HE hears my cries and comforts me! Especially when I am feeling too busy and when it feels like it is too much to handle, HE can help me to see what is important to HIM in my days. If I seek HIM to guide me in my organizing my time and my home, HE will lead and inspire me! One day my home will be that haven that I grew up in!

May we linger in prayer, listening for HIS voice~

How is God leading you? How has he inspired you lately?

Blessings to you!

Remember the giveaways, Angi's bows ends on the 29th, and Rachael Ray's ends on the 31st!

Giveaway and Review!

2010-03-23T18:19:00.000-07:00

I have been so excited to get a package in the mail! Today I got my Rachael Ray 2 Piece Set of Stoneware Bubble & Brown Oven Ovals! I have been excited to get this set as I have been wanting to try out her line!

These are perfectly sized baking dishes! I received the set in blue, but CSN has them in green, yellow, orange and blue. They are contemporary but vibrant in their color! I was happy that I can take this straight from the oven to the table, they look amazing. They have extra wide handles that make it very easy to take from the oven with pot holders! Both of the ovals will nestle together to save space in your cupboard, which is key for me with limited kitchen cupboard space! The nice thing about this stoneware is that it is dishwasher, microwave, freezer, and oven safe. Extremely versatile, which all busy moms need pieces like these!

So tonight I made a Rachael Ray recipe, Kristen commented on the product review that she would love to see the Cheesy Hash brown Chili done in one of the dishes so I decided to do that first! Here is the link to the recipe, I did change a few things: we like things a little spicier, so I added cayenne pepper, and I added garlic when I was adding the onions. I also added in a little Velveeta cheese, which of course made it delicious! Here is the finished product! (Note: this says that it feeds four, but I think it would feed 6 easily!)

Cooking in the Stoneware, was amazing, and it was deep enough for this casserole. Clean up was super easy, nothing stuck to the side and the glaze didn't fade~I would rate this a 10!

While Chip and I were eating I thought of all the things I can use these dishes for, not only casseroles and roasts, but anything really that I would love to serve dinner in! I am going to try a breakfast bake in it this weekend too! We also talked about how this would be a great gift for a wedding or a recent college graduate, CSN has these on sale for $34.95 (half off as their list price is $69.95) they also offer free shipping on a lot of their items!

Go check out CSN, there are over 200 stores to look through finding housewares, outdoor items, not to mention the ultimate gift finder page!

I want to thank CSN for allowing me the opportunity to do a review on their item and a giveaway on this amazing product!

So now, how to enter this GREAT giveaway! CSN is giving one of my readers a set of the Rachael Ray Stoneware, and you get to pick your color!

1. To enter, go to CSN and leave a comment on this post telling me what item interests you! (1 entry) (Please include your email so that I can email you if you win)

2. Follow me on my blog (2 extra entries)

3. Blog about this giveaway and send me the link (3 extra entries)

The giveaway ends March 31st at 10PM. Please leave 1 comment for each entry you earn! The winner will be randomly picked and announced that evening! Thanks for participating and GOOD LUCK!!!!

Granola Bars

2010-03-23T10:57:00.000-07:00

So I love to do crafts with the kids and any time that I can incorporate them in cooking they jump for joy! I believe that's because they see me having fun creating things in the kitchen and they see that it can be fun to cook and not a chore! Chip's mom made them aprons to do Easter eggs in this year, and the kids love now they get to wear an apron while cooking in the kitchen! So today we made granola bars! I decided not to put nuts or raisins/craisins this time, because the kids asked for peanut butter and some chocolate chips! So here is how I made them today! Let me know if you use this recipe and how you like it! It is so much fun to have the kids help and have them measure out what is needed (great teaching time!) Let me know how it works in your house, or if you have a spin off on the recipe!

So I basically start with oats (4 1/2 cups), flour (1 cup), baking soda (1 tsp.), vanilla (1 tsp.), butter (softened 2/3 C), honey (1/2 C), brown sugar (1/3 C),

and then anything you want to add in.

I usually will put in crushed almonds, craisins, sometimes chocolate chips. I have found that if you do the choc. chips that you can get by with a heaping cup (more if you like), the rest you can add as you desire. Sometimes my kids are into a real nut/berries kick and I will overload it!

So after you get everything mixed together, put in a greased pan (depending on how thick you want them 9x13 or smaller) and bake at 325 for 15-18 min. Let them cool about 10 min. and cut them into bars, and then let rest until completely cooled! Store in an airtight container, although they go fast here!

So it's an easy recipe, tons of fun with the kids! And you most likely have everything in your house to make them! So go have fun!!!

Blessings

Menu Planning Monday

2010-03-21T18:26:00.000-07:00

This last week went well with meals~ the kids liked having the black beans with rice and the quesadillas, which was the one meal I thought they would not touch~ I have had a great week with the kids, we have walked, played outside (yes it is spring!) and even went to the Children's Museum. This week we have even more fun activities planned. Brooklynn is actually going to get her hair done and go on a "date" with her daddy! They will be going to a He and Me dance too! I will be sure to post pictures of her AMAZING dress and date night! Be sure to remember to sign up for my giveaway by leaving a comment!

Breakfasts:

Eggs and Toast, Cereal, Oatmeal, Smoothies

Lunch:

Grilled Cheese, PB&J, Ham and Cheese, Salads, Egg Salad

Dinners:

(There are only 6 meals planned, due to dinner out with each child)

Baked Cheesy Chicken and Biscuits

Hamburgers (on the grill!)

Spaghetti with garlic bread

Baked Potato Bar with Salads

Lentil Soup with Sausage

Tilapia with Basmati Rice

I will also be making granola bars with the kids Monday! We have planned on making some O.PB balls too! (I really don't have a name for these, they are oatmeal, peanut butter, flax, honey, etc!) I will post pictures of us making our fun treats! Check out other menu's on Laura's page.

Blessings!

Creations By Angi~ Giveaway!

2010-03-18T07:57:00.000-07:00

I have been buying bows for Brooklynn since she was little, you can understand my excitement when I came across Angi, she has amazing talent and wonderful product! Angi not only makes bows but does amazing things with bottle caps, has totes, tutus, and flip flops to name a few! The wonderful thing about Angi to me, she isn't out to break your bank and her product is awesome!

What an exciting opportunity I have to announce a giveaway! I am pleased to introduce to you Angi~

(Michael and Angi, along with children Hannah, Connor, and Brayden)

Lisa: Angi, how long have you been making bows?

Angi: With the birth of my sister's 6th child Lillian Elizabeth she was going to be the princess of our family. My sister has 6 children and I have three, the youngest now a baby girl! Misty, my sister wanted Lily to have all of the adorable hair flair that you see in today's fashion. I have always been crafty and decided instead of spending a fortune on hair bows I would make them for her. I bought some ribbon and got started. After playing around with ribbon I became obsessed! Bows~N~Bottlecaps was found in May of 2009.

I began by selling to friends and family and eventually made a Facebook page and my website is still under construction. I attend local craft shows and festivals around central Indiana all throughout the year. I have simply been overwhelmed with the response to my items. My stock started with only 5 bows styles and now averages over 86 items.

I have recently been blessed to be given the opportunity to make the bows for the Denver Bronco Junior Cheerleaders. Kim Wilt with Two Crafty Chicks has been an awesome business partner and recruited the work for the Denver Broncos for both her and I. I am proud to say the Bows~N~Bottlecaps has become a huge success within less than a year!

Lisa: What sparks your ideas?

Angi: When I am in my bow studio working away ideas just seem to pop in my head. Many times I will have an idea in my head and can not figure out how to make it a reality. These are the nights that I will lay in bed and all of the sudden a light bulb goes off and the next day turned into an amazing new product! My children and new fashions also add to the latest and greatest ideas. I also have to give kudos to my network of fellow loopies who encourage and advise continually.

Lisa: What's the best thing you've made, the biggest, your favorite?

Angi: I don't know if I can pick just one item to be my favorite. I truly enjoy making tutus, flip flops, and all style hair bows. My most unique items are still in the works, one has already been announced. My ABC Flattened Bottlecap Magnets are so fun for little fingers!

Thank you Angi for your time and for your items to host this give away!

Now onto the great giveaway!

Angi has given me one bottlecaps necklace themed for a boy and one boutique bow!

Both of these are amazing! Good luck to those that enter~

To enter leave a comment, mention one of your favorite item she has on her site. (1 entry)
Become a fan of Angi's on Facebook. (1 entry)
Follow my blog. (2 entries)
(Leave separate comments for each entry!)

Please be sure to mention which item you would like to enter for.

The winners will be announced March 29th~ I will email the winners to get your addresses and send out the items!

Pumpkin Cheese Cake Muffins!

2010-03-15T10:09:00.000-07:00

Okay so last night I decided to get creative with some pumpkin that was in my pantry. I started the recipe like I would normally make pumpkin bread, but then I thought I would do a cheese cake rendition. I filled the muffin tins with the pumpkin mixture. I then decided to mix up some cream cheese, egg, and sugar. I made wells in the pumpkin mixture and put a dollop of the cream cheese, and then sprinkled on some cinnamon, sugar and butter crumble on top. These were such a hit this morning. Andrew had two and asked for more....I cut him off! :) I will do these again sometime soon!

Blessings~

Menu Planning~

2010-03-14T12:29:00.000-07:00

This week I am planning on being a fairly easy week with meals. Again I am planning on not going out to eat this week! I am going to be making a list of items I have in the freezer to make out meal plans for the next two weeks~ I am excited to be getting on top of the pantry and the freezer!

Breakfasts:

Cereal, Eggs and Toast, Smoothies, Pancakes/Waffles, Breakfast Cookies

Lunches:

Ham and Cheese Melts, PB&J, Mac & Cheese, Left Overs!

Dinners:

M: Black Beans and Rice with Cheesy Roll-Ups for the kids!

T: Roasted Chicken, Green Beans, and Potatoes

W: Baked Pasta, Salad

Th: Pork Chops, Rice, Peas

Fri: Biscuits and Gravy

Sat: Hamburgers, Red Potato Salad

Sun: Roast, Carrots, Potatoes

Laura Hosts Menu Planning Monday....head on over to her site to see what everyone else is planning for their meals this week to get some great ideas!

Attitude of Appreciation

2010-03-13T11:02:00.000-08:00

“IF YOU ARE NOT HAPPY WITH WHAT YOU ALREADY HAVE, YOU WILL NOT BE HAPPY WITH MORE!”

I found myself saying this to my kids today. I took them to a store and both of them started in on how it wasn't "fair" that they didn't get something. I talked to them about how there are a lot of children that didn't have as many toys as them and how they would feel if they knew that they had toys sitting at our house not being used or played with. Well...I am sure you can see how it started to backfire on me right there. Brooklynn decided maybe we should give away all the food in our pantry, or all our socks, the list went on. I explained that we "will" eat our food, and yes maybe we do have too many socks, but we will wear them until they have holes. Then she said but I "will" play with all of my toys someday.
We live in a society where it is not thought of twice to have a closet filled with clothes, and then still go shopping for more outfits. Or a toy box overflowing and getting a cart full of more toys for a birthday/Christmas. So I am thinking we need to re-evaluate I want my kids to still be kids and have a great childhood, but I want them to have a heart of compassion and a heart that is eager to give!
Please don't get me wrong, my kids are great, and they care about people. But I want them to realize that there is a bigger picture to everything. No I don't want them to be so grown up that they don't enjoy the time they have as kids. I want them to feel blessed by what they have and bless others by what they can do and give!

Every man shall give as he is able, according to the blessing of the Lord your God which He has given you. Deuteronomy 16: 17

Product Review!

2010-03-12T06:13:00.000-08:00

To my excitement, this morning I got an email from Ashley with CSN letting me know about an opportunity to do a product review! If I would have been sitting on a bar stool I would have fallen over! :) With the help of Ashley I have picked out the item that I am going to review! Rachael Ray's Bubble and Brown, I have been wanting to purchase these for a while now! I love Rachael Ray, and can't wait to try out a recipe in this new item! Stay tuned for that post, because you too could win your own set of these!
So, go check out CSN. They have amazing things to offer and great deals! Have fun looking!
And a special thanks to CSN for allowing me to host this review and giveaway!

Blessings!

Key Lime Cove

2010-03-08T08:00:00.000-08:00

We left for Key Lime Cove on Sunday after church.....long drive, but great for the kids when we got here. They were able to get right into the water. This place is huge! They have a lot of things for the kids, the downside was this morning the water park didn't open until 10am, which is 11 our time. Not to mention the kids woke up early as usual, so keeping them quiet and entertained was "fun"~ I brought things for our meals, the evening before we left I made some dinners that could be easily warmed up in the microwave. This morning it was bagels and yogurt! Chip laughed while carrying in our cooler~"how long are we here?"!! (Note: we didn't eat out the whole three days!) I am glad I saw other people doing the same thing. Hey you have to save somewhere right! The kids love it, and it provides extra money to do other things~ They are used to eating at home anyway so it really isn't that much different, and they love their little kitchen table in the room, it is novelty that you can move the flat screen towards the table so they can watch cartoons and eat or color!

Brooklynn is the typical adventure/thrill seeker! The second morning I walked up these stairs 16 times back to back, and then suggested that we/I needed a break! Okay I must mention that for three of the slides you have to carry up your own tube, only two can you go down without a tube! But still those steps were exhausting! Brooklynn loved that there was an area that she could navigate herself and go through the maze to do some more slides herself! She also has a radiant personality where she makes friends easily!

Andrew is not as much as a dare devil with heights as Brooklynn is. He is laid back, and loves to play! Andrew does love slides, but is cautious at first! Although he did go down a "huge" slide alone! I was very proud of how brave he was, it was a slide that they wouldn't let two people go down together...he loved it, but we didn't do it again! :) In the kiddie area he was able to do the slides himself, but loved that mom would sit at the end of the slide waiting and cheering him on! Andrew also loved the lazy river!

They both had a blast! I love that we can see PURE JOY in our kids! They love the water, they enjoy life, and I am reminded daily to let them live life fully and to try not to hold them back!

I do have to mention that Key Lime Cove has a larger kids area, they have the locked infant/kiddie area, and a great area for Brooklynn's thrill seeking heart! We were able to enjoy some gaming time the day we left, we saved it until the end, and this is what the kids won!

Bounce Dryer Bar~

2010-03-06T19:19:00.001-08:00

Okay, so I signed up to try out a sample of the new Bounce Dryer Bar. The idea was that they give you a sample and then you review it. Well, great thing they had enough people before my name was picked..... I decided to go out and buy one for our dryer. The lady on the commercial was so convincing, but the results were less than convincing for me. I bought the smaller bar as I didn't want to commit to 4 months of having something in my dryer. I am not a huge fan of having something stuck on the dryer itself, but I gave it a try anyway. The first load I did was whites, and the clothes came out smelling really strong, good/fresh. I thought hey this will be great! Ummm, yeah next load was some of my pants and shirts......spots on my clothes. I thought maybe I left something in my pocket, you never know with kids :), but, nope....sprayed and washed again, and guess what.....spots were in different places. I was frustrated, and took out the dryer bar immediately. When I took out the dryer bar I noticed that in some areas it had lint stuck to it. Because it was warm it smelled wonderful, but it is not worth ruining my laundry. So for me and my house, we will not go that route again. Hope if you are trying it you have better luck!

This Week's Menu~

2010-02-28T17:53:00.000-08:00

This week is going to be cheap and simple (No grocery visit this week!)

Breakfasts:

Cereal, Fruit, Hard Boiled Eggs, Pancakes, Smoothies

Lunches:

Sandwiches, Fruit, Granola and Yogurt, Soup, Grilled Cheese, Salads

Suppers:

Goulash, Spaghetti & Garlic Bread, Ground Beef Noodles in Sour Cream Sauce (recipe in comments), Chicken & Dumplings (homemade!), Lasagna, Meatloaf, Chicken with Rice & Veggies

Snacks & Desserts:

Muffins, Banana Bread, Apple Crisp, Brownies, Monkey Bread, Pudding/Jello

The next two weeks I am going to be cooking from our pantry and freezer. The only thing I will be going to the grocery for is milk and a loaf of bread. I don't anticipate needing to go soon~ I'll let you know how it goes!

Dentist!

2010-02-24T16:54:00.001-08:00

This morning was Andrew's first visit to the dentist! An exciting visit to say the least. Andrew wanted to bring many toys, and wanted to make sure that this did not include any shots. I assured him that there were to be no shots, but that they would look in his mouth at his teeth, and clean them. He wanted to be sure that they wouldn't take any of his teeth, and decided that Buzz Lightyear would be a great toy to bring to defend him! :) How funny, I talked him down from the big Buzz, to the little Buzz that doesn't talk or shoot a red beam. Yes, instead it karate chops....haha didn't think that one through! Anyway, he got to the waiting room and wanted to visit the bathroom, which at our dentists has a wall of clocks. Andrew was really impressed!

First off I really loved the dental hygienist. She was amazing with Andrew, she explained everything, and let him feel things and talked about what they would feel like before she did it. She had him help even while she was cleaning his teeth. If you look at the picture you will see that he is holding the suction wand. When she would clean a few teeth and rinse them, he would put the wand in his mouth and it would suck out all the spit and water. He thought it was fun! Oh, a boy in his glory with all the "tools" and buttons to push! She even taught him how to make the chair go up and down.

Of course all the girls thought he was cute, he did sit very still, and even was still through the flossing. If only he would sit this still all the time when I tried to floss his teeth! Overall he did GREAT! He was an excellent patient, no cavities, brushes his teeth well, and puts on the charm for everyone! Andrew now has been looking at all our teeth, telling us how to brush and to come and see our Dentist Andrew....maybe a seed has been planted~

Craig's List

2010-02-23T08:57:00.000-08:00

So like I said in an earlier post, I am getting addicted to Craig's List. I have listed 12 things, and 7 sold almost immediately! And the first things to go weren't little: a portable dishwasher, a tv/computer cabinet that has been sitting in our basement for 2 years, two toddler beds with mattresses, a wing back chair, a pottery barn rug with quilt, and a crib set! I have a few more things that I am planning on listing! I love that on Craig's List I can list for free, and I don't have to ship anything. Makes it so easy! Some things I am going to try this time is boxes of kids clothes. I am only going to put together one girl box and one boy box.....of course by size too! I also have a box of toys that I want to try to get rid of......we will see how it goes! I am excited to have things out of our house. The kids asked if they got rid of their baby toys what we would do with the money.....I told them that was their money and they could decide. Brooklynn thought for a min. and said maybe more toys, or maybe Disney. I told her Disney would be more than just a few baby toys! :) So, they are thinking about how to use that money, when/if we get it!

I love that both the kids are dreamers. They dream big!

"Reach high, for the stars lie hidden in your soul. Dream deep, for every dream precedes the goal." (Pamela Starr)

Next year it will be amazing to take the kids to Disney. I am hoping that they will both be at an age where they will remember it too! Either way, I know they will have a ball....until then this year we will plan a few mini vacations! I know we will hit Great Wolf Lodge again, and of course Indiana!

Butcher~

2010-02-22T07:21:00.000-08:00

Okay, so this was my first time at a butchers! I LOVED IT!!!! I was so excited at how much money I was saving. After Chip and I separated things last night I realized that I thought I got enough meat to last us 3 months, but I am sure we have at least four months of not needing to buy meat! Huge savings when it comes down to it. Okay so here is the run down I spent $84 divide that between (even) three months and that is $28 a month. And I need to mention, this meat is fresh, corn fed.....ORGANIC. Can you believe all that I got for that?!!! I was so excited. The place we went to is Bird's Farm Meats in Howard City. Bird Farm uses no antibiotics and no hormones! It was worth the drive, and I can't wait to go again. I am so excited to shop here and support local (well not to me) farmers! When I first entered the store, I was overcome with joy! It was fun, it was a thrill seeing people all gathered up by the meat case. I took my number, and waited, looked around and noticed people taking some things from a case, so I thought I would look....I was able to grab a 10 lb bag of chicken breasts, and 10 lb bag of ground beef. I also grabbed two five pound bags of chicken thighs! I then watched others as they were "pros" and watched the prices! It was amazing. They had some great deals last week. I was also told that the earlier you go the longer you wait, but you get first pick. So much fun, I also must mention...I was in there for over an hour. I waited in line to get to the meat case as long as I waited to go through the cash register. Everyone was friendly there, even the people shopping. There was a lady in front of me that held my cart in line while I went back and picked up an extra item...wow~ Bird's is a family run business, I got most of the story from one of the sisters that worked the cash register. One of the sisters behind the meat case was full of ideas on how to cook things, compliments for those shopping, and just sweet as can be! Try going to Meijer's or D&W, and their meat department isn't that friendly or full of useful knowledge~ not to mention, their meat has gone through how many hands to get to us.
At any rate, I have now found a great butcher! I will continue to go, and will have a list in hand. I think I could make a menu for three months....and that would/will help with knowing how much meat to come away with! This time was an adventure, and full of fun! I was elated when I left and even more tickled when Chip and I were vacuum sealing the meat! I can't wait to share how the meat tastes. (Oh and that block of cheddar cheese you see there....$3) :)

Menu Planning Monday!

2010-02-22T06:46:00.000-08:00

I was able to shop for groceries and only spend $52. I did get to go to the butchers, and I will blog about that next! So.....here is the plan for this week~

Breakfasts:

Pancakes, Cereal

Oatmeal Applesauce Muffins

Breakfast cookies~ Recipe in comments!

Eggs and Toast

Smoothies

Lunches:

Pocket Sandwiches

Macaroni and Cheese

PB&J

Tomato Soup

Grilled Cheese

Dinners:

M: Chili and Corn Bread

T: Chicken Pot Pie

W: Biscuits and Sausage and Gravy

TH: Chicken, Rice, Green Beans

F: Black bean, corn, and cheese quesadillas

S: Fettuccine Alfredo, cooked carrots and garlic bread

Sun: Roast, Potatoes, Carrots, Salad

Grocery Lists and Clean Sweep Attitude!

2010-02-18T04:28:00.000-08:00

Tons to do today.....I need to make a list for the grocery. I am going to plan our meals for two weeks, and I am going to attempt to shop for the whole two weeks and get everything for $75. I'll re post and let you know how that goes....this afternoon I am going to make chili, Chip works late, and it is easy for him to heat up. The kids are more excited for the corn bread that I am planning on making too! The plan for this month, is to not go out to eat or convenience shop.

So remember that show on HGTV Clean Sweep?! I am in a clean sweep attitude! I have piles for GoodWill, and then a few things to list on craigslist! Seriously getting addicted to craigslist. So last night I listed a few things on craigslist, and can't wait to see what will go! I listed our portable dishwasher last night so it would un-clutter our closet (and really I can wash them by hand), and guess what :) I will know definitely this afternoon but, IT SOLD! I am hoping that everything I listed last night will go too! I have this feeling of getting things out that haven't been used in the last year or two, and trying to simplify things in our life! Once I get things cleaned out, the plan is to frame in a small room downstairs (only two walls need framed and drywalled) and it will be the kids playroom. We also need to fix the steps going downstairs.....wow, when selling your house it makes you a little crazy! It is amazing that 7 years in one place and two kids later the amount of things you obtain. I may be crazy, but I do love to organize and I do love to clean....hoping to stay motivated this weekend and next week! I am loving the ideas from flylady....and have my zones all mapped out! So tonight, my plan is to list on amazon or half.com some of my nursing books, and some other books that I have read and reread different times but am happy to let go of! I love books, but when my bookshelf broke, and now having all my books in boxes, it makes me want to consolidate....oh and I know another thing, I am really excited about organizing cabinets...today I will be in the bathroom.....going to clean and organize that! I will take pictures of the progress! Gotta go, make the most of this time with Andrew and laundry!
Have a great morning!

Ash Wednesday

2010-02-17T17:28:00.000-08:00

Ash Wednesday gets it's name from the practice of placing ashes on the foreheads of the faithful as a sign of repentance and turning away from sin. Ash Wednesday is the beginning of Lent, the cross is an outward sign of our repentance for our sins.

May you be reminded of what God has brought you through and continue to turn away from sin~

I found this online:

Jesus called on God for help to bring him through difficulties in the dessert. Ash Wednesday is designed to remind believers that they, too, are vulnerable and need God's help. Believers wear ashes on their foreheads to remind themselves of their mortality as they journey into the Lenten season.

Long Overdue!

2010-02-17T14:55:00.000-08:00

Wow~ Someone asked me if I was ever going to post on here again, and I am ashamed to say that it has been as long as it has :( Wow, so what has happened in a year? I went back to school (finished), Brooklynn is another year older and in Kindergarten, Andrew is another year older, and ready to be a big boy! We have a no diapers during the day in our house!! Only a pull up for Andrew (just in case at night) soon to be taken away, as he is dry 99% of the time! Chip only has a few more classes left for ordination, and I am looking for full time work (3rd shift)....

What are we planning? Hummm good one, we are listing our house! So long! We are going to list with Patti Pitcher, when she gets back in town there should be a sign in the yard. This is exciting and scary all wrapped in one! We bought this house when we first moved to Michigan. There have been a lot of firsts in our house, first house as a couple, first house to bring our two amazing children home to, and the house we have lived in for 7 years. Wow! A lot of memories, it will be hard leaving it, but I will be happy for more room, and happy for the kids to have space!
What else is new this year? I have started the Jillian 30 Day Shred....trying to shred some weight! I will be happy once I lose this weight!
Brooklynn is still doing gymnastics and dance! She is busy all the time, and is up and running on all cylinders at 5am.....Lord I know I will be praying one day that she wants to wake up early, but wow to have a little bit of her energy would be amazing!
Andrew is just as active as Brooklynn, he is ready to start school, and wants to be in sports. We may get him started in a sports clinic this summer!

Hopefully we will be able to hit Great Wolf Lodge again with the kids, they ask to go back all the time! And maybe Chip and I will be able to get away this year for a vacation just the two of us! The big vacation will be next year and that will be DISNEY with the kids! Hoping we can save a ton of money by then to make it AMAZING!

So the plan is to update more regularly now! I am going to start back on my menu planning, and I am sticking to a budget now, so you will find great eats for cheap! Can't wait to begin Menu Planning Monday's again!

Coupons!-Long overdue post!

2008-10-02T14:45:00.000-07:00

Okay so I was reading on the internet about how K-Mart was doing a nationwide double your coupons from Oct. 1-5. Trust me if you call your K-mart will have to honor it, or you can call the 1-800 number and they will call your store and tell them about how to enter it into their systems. Okay so here is the rundown of my great sales! I didn't have a lot of coupons at home, but I took everything that I knew I would use that was at least $1.00 to $2.00 coupons. So I shopped wisely, didn't get things that I would have to pay much for, etc.

What did I get: 2-4 packs of Caress, Kotex, 2-Soft Scrub w/bleach, Spray-n-Wash with resolve power, Lysol Bathroom cleaner, Pledge, Pert Plus, High Endurance Body Wash, Loreal Vive Pro Shampoo, Complete Multi Purpose Concact Solution, Colgate Toothpaste, Electrasol, 2-AirWick candles, Renuzit Pearl Scents, Schick Quattro razor blades, 2 packs of tic-tac, Aquafresh toothbrush, Lady Speed Stick 24/7 deodordant, Zantac 75 (30 Tablets), Children's Claritin.
How much did I pay?!-$6.41

I also transferred a prescription and got a $30 gift card to Rite Aid. My first time ever trying this. But it was great to get some extra things that I didn't have to pay for! Also not pictured is Toilet Paper, but I was able to get that with this too!

What a Weekend!

2008-09-14T19:06:00.000-07:00

First off let me start by saying, unfortunately we did not have the yard sale....it has rained four days straight and we tried to do the whole tent thing, but it rained in from the side, so that threw that idea out the window. So the boxes were brought up, everything priced, and add placed.....and no sale. I had a guy come to my door, asking if I was going to set up or what.....umm did he just get out of his car and not notice the torrential rains? I politely said no I'm sorry and I said I would hopefully be doing it next weekend, only if the weather cooperated! He didn't think that was funny, but if he only knew how many times I have tried to do the yard sale then he would laugh. Because what else is there to do? :) So, if it rains next weekend I am never doing a sale again! (At least this year) I was able however, to have a couple people come over and look through clothes, and baby clothes, so I was able to get rid of some things! Not enough to notice though!

Here is our Menu for the week!

Anyway, this is going to be a busy week and since they had chicken buy one get one free, we are going to be having a lot of chicken based meals! Oh, and here is a picture of our Thai Chicken Curry; it turned out great!!! I decided to make basmati rice with it too. If you would like the recipe then let me know, I still don't know how to get the recipe links....maybe someone could help me with that!

Monday:
Blueberry Bagels, Juice
Grilled Cheese
Crock pot Stew
Tuesday:
Cereal
Macaroni and Cheese
Homemade Chicken Enchiladas
Wednesday:
Oatmeal
Left overs
Baked Chicken, Potato Casserole, Broccoli-Cheese-Rice Casserole
Thursday:
Pancakes maybe sausage or bacon
Sandwiches, celery with PB
Pork Chops, green beans and rice
Friday:
Eggs, Toast
PB&J
I'm attempting to make homemade ckn. nuggets with corn and salad
Saturday:
Brunch
Hamburgers, pasta salad, veggie
Sunday:
Eggs w/ Toast
Ckn. Pot Pie with homemade crusts
Left overs!

Have a great week, blessings!

Yard Sale!

2008-09-10T14:22:00.000-07:00

Let me start by saying this yard sale is about three weeks overdue....

Every time I was supposed to have it, something happened...and then last weekend it rained the majority of it, and NOW, this weekend it is supposed to rain too.....what am I going to do? I am tired of having this stuff in our house. I feel like I have gone through some things and decided to really purge...so of course I don't want it sitting her very much longer because I don't want to renig on my goal of letting go-that includes memories, the idea that maybe we will have another child and what will they wear (silly I know!). So what am I going to do? I am going to have the yard sale! My good friend, is letting me borrow her tent, and I am going to be proactive in setting that up and putting tables out under it! So I don't have to worry about those "occasional rain showers"! If you think about it, pray for nice weather, I'm not asking for a heatwave, although it would be nice, but just for the rain to subside for two days!!!!
So, what am I doing tonight? I am pricing every last thing, fingers crossed, hopefully! Since Chip is at work so late, after I put the kids to bed, I am going to pop in an old movie that I love to watch, Serendipity, and price away-until my fingers bleed!
So, what is in the sale? Kids clothes-all seasons boys and girls...baby toys, a bassinet (Brooklynn slept in this for about 3 months!), boppy pillows, adult clothes, maternity clothes, shoes, crib, sheets, movies, books, kitchenware, rocking horse, stuffed animals, furniture, scrapbook and stampin' up things, etc!
I am also trying to convince my husband that it is about time that we get rid of my skis, because I haven't skied since Brooklynn was a baby, and umm, it's not like I really have the time or to mention the body to do it anymore, so the logical thing in my mind would be to sell it, right, right! His reasoning is that we will go more often when the kids are older, and why have to rent or buy more then....I get his point but how long do you actually store things before you learn to let go?! You would think I was asking him to get rid of his skis...and I'm not, because I know he LOVES to ski...we just haven't had the time to go in forever (or the money!)
I know that they, and by they meaning the professionals, say to purge things you have not used in three years, and to carefully consider the things that weren't used in the last two...was it at the back of your closet, or in a box, or are you not rolling out your dough anymore, things like that! If it is something you like then give it one more year, if it wasn't used that season, then toss it, sell it, or donate it!
So in an attempt to de-clutter my life and enjoy a clean house a little more, I CAN'T wait to have this yard sale, and I can't wait for it to be Saturday! :) It is funny how much work is going into getting this sale all ready...Chip doesn't enjoy all the stress...he says I worry too much about it. I just want a good turn out and great weather! I am going to advertise in the local paper about it, and I am also going to put it on Craig's List...
One thing that Chip warns me, or puts the disclaimer on, is everything that goes out stays out! I am really bad about that, I guess I have in the past just figured that I could always save it for another yard sale or for someone if they needed baby clothes or maternity clothes.....which has actually helped out a few people in a pinch lately! So I think, in all my craziness I will only pick out a few items that I didn't really want to sell on Saturday afternoon, and then take the rest to donation places around! I'll let you know how well that goes over, maybe I'll keep myself accountable by posting it!
So if you aren't doing anything and want to come for a while on Friday or Saturday....maybe you can find a deal! I am anxious to let go~ Brooklynn keeps asking me if we can make the sale a party...she wants to make cookies and lemonade, balloons, etc! I don't think I am up for the balloons, etc, although she did lemonade at the last sale and made a killing- she bought herself a toy! But cookies, that is work for me....oh well maybe we will make Peanut Butter Cookies and Chocolate Chip Cookies on Thursday night.....we will see how ambitious I am!

Well I better sign off...I have laundry calling my name, dinner for the kids, and a toddler bed to assemble before bed time~ If I get really over zealous tonight I will take a picture of my progress, and of course of Andrew's new bed... and we will see how many times he gets out of bed tonight! :) Have a great night!!! Blessings~

A Big Day For Brooklynn!

2008-09-08T12:07:00.000-07:00

Today was Brooklynn's first day of pre-school. She had a wonderful day! We went to school just she and I and then the parents left for a meeting about the year, etc! She loved it, they started working on their centers, the Letter this week was A...
When I picked her up she said she had a blast and wanted to show me how she stamped the letters of her name. She told me they didn't have a "B" but it was okay because she knows that she has a letter B in her name! She is so funny! So it is imperative that when we get home we do lunch and then go for a nap, because she now has Ballet and Gymnastics on Monday's from 4-5....so we must be rested! She didn't argue about it either! Thank you Jesus, maybe I can stretch this napping business a while longer! :)
Oh and right after these pictures I sat right in a half of a bagel and cream cheese...classic...no pictures thank you so don't ask! I got cleaned off just in time to get out the door clean pants and clean couch!
Here are some pictures of Brooklynn getting ready for school:
Andrew wanted to get in some pictures with her too~

Mom I'm ready to go to school, and maybe I'll sing you a song about it too!

It was rainey so she got to wear her rain coat!

This backpack is from last year, but it's Dora, and it was okay to use again!

So Brooklynn also had her 2-in-1 class tonight. She does a half of an hour of ballet and then the second half hour is gymnastics! She loves it! She has a niche for this, and would be lost without it in her life! I am constantly reminded that she is all me daily! So here are a few pictures of Brooklynn from tonight... The first three are five of the six girls in her class...next to Brooklynn in the pink is Jaylee, and then Becca!

This was the gymnastics start with Coach Melissa

Watch out Shawn Johnson here comes Brooklynn! Who knows :)

Brooklynn and Becca

It was a great day today, and you should have smelled my house~the smell of a clean house and a roast in the slow cooker! Tomorrow I need to focus on laundry and working in the basement! Hopefully I will be productive there too!

Brooklynn's New Look!

2008-09-08T11:27:00.001-07:00

Okay so, I will start this post out about my great daughter! Brooklynn again had fun with Abigail, they both wanted to play beauty shop, and I would ask what they want and they would tell me. We did a couple of fun pin up do's and then they wanted it braided. I did Abigail's first and she just had a normal french braid, and then Brooklynn wanted to be different actually Abigail didn't want it to be the same and convinced Brooklynn that she should have "piggy-tail braids". So I did Brooklynn's hair, I am actually really proud of myself getting it so tight, and looking good~

Well the day went on and then we did some art, and I made shapes and had them cutting out the images. Abigail's dad came to pick them up and after they left, Brooklynn went to the bathroom...eveything is normal. I picked up the scrap paper and moved the table to clean, etc. Proudly Brooklynn emerges from the bathroom and before I can ask if she is ready for her nap...she proceeds to say see momma, I didn't cut myself.....I looked around first thinking she tried to shave her legs or something, and then I realize it....as she touches her precious bangs....I didn't even know what to do, laugh, cry, or be stern. I decided to tell her she looks alright and it will grow back, but if she would let mommy cut her bangs from now on that would be best. Chip happened to come home for lunch about this time and he wanted me to cut them to make them even, as I protested because she would have about an inch and a half of bang.....at least now I can part more hair to hide her chuncks....it actually looks like someone tried to put layers in her bangs that had no sence whatsoever! (This too shall pass!)

So here is a before picture of the girls:

And here is a picture of Brooklynn after the incident:

And the bathroom:

I hope you all have a great day, and remember everything you did as kids I am sure your children will do to you, maybe even at a younger age......I tried to cut my bangs once when I was in grade school. And might I add, I did cut straight across, the bad part was that I wet down my hair before I cut it, and we all know what happens when it dries (it gets shorter!). Brooklynn decided to be a stylist when she was 3 1/2...Oh my! I hope this is the only time she does this! At least it wasn't any more than it was!

Menu Planning Monday

2008-09-07T21:33:00.000-07:00

Monday:
Blueberry Bagels, OJ
Ham&Cheese, wheat thins
Pot Roast with red potatoes, carrots, celery, onion
Tuesday:
Oatmeal
Macaroni and Cheese
Thai Chicken Curry, with rice or homemade mashed pot. (not sure yet!)
Wednesday:
Cereal
Carrots w/ dip, yogurt w/ granola, cheese cubes
Homemade Pizza
Thursday:
Pancakes, Bacon
Sandwiches, celery with PB
Crock Pot Brown Sugar Chicken
Friday: (First day of the yard sale)
Eggs, Toast, Sausage
PB&J, wheat thins with cheese
Grilled Cheese with homemade Tomato Soup!! :)
Saturday:
Crock Pot Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole
Whatever the babysitter feeds the kids for lunch!!
Cooking in the fire pit!
Sunday:
Eggs w/ Toast
Lasagna w/ side salad and green beans
Left overs!

If you would like any recipes let me know, I am not sure how to have a highlighted click on it and it goes to my recipe buttons....if you understand what I mean! :) Have a great week!

Menu Planning Monday!

2008-08-25T10:54:00.000-07:00

Breakfast:

Mon: Homemade Blueberry Pancakes

Tues: Cereal and fruit

Wed: Oatmeal with fresh peaches

Thur: Eggs and sausage

Fri: Cereal with peaches or pears

Lunch:

Mon: PB&J with fruit, and pretzels

Tues: Grilled Cheese

Wed: Mac and Cheese

Thurs: Broccoli with cheese and grapes

Fri: Tuna on English muffins

Dinner:

Mon: Hamburgers and Hot dogs on the grill, watermelon, potato salad, corn on the cob, and grn. beans (We have company coming over!)

Tues: Salad night with lentils

Wed: Spaghetti with garlic bread and salad

Thurs: Meatloaf and Mashed potatoes and carrots

Fri: Taco Salad! YUMMY!

Beach day Wednesday!

2008-08-08T07:31:00.000-07:00

Today we went to the beach again, we met some friends there, and it was a great time. Not too hot and not too cold! I did feel the water and thought it was a lot cooler than before, but the kids kept on playing despite the cooler temperature! Brooklynn wanted me to put her hair all up, and pull back and pin her bangs....this is actually the first time she has asked for me to pin up her bangs, she looks so much older with her hair back...I think I'll make her keep the bangs at least for a few more years :) Andrew still doesn't like when the waves are coming in quickly so he loves to play in the sand. I did take him out to the water, he liked it at first and then he didn't like the fact the waves crashed into him before I could lift him out of the water. (Note to self: when washing off hands look up for the waves!) Brooklynn and her friend Becca had a blast, they have so much fun together, here are a few pictures of the kids before we left and while we were there! I don't think any of the kids are camera shy!

Thursday I did a Tastefully Simple party, they have such yummy food, and great ideas for new recipes. So funny during the party we talked about having insurance to cover the consultant, then as we are finishing up, one of my new glasses gets broken, and then as she is leaving she dropped one of her bags and broke one of the lights in our yard, and not just a little broken, the whole light was broke in half. She kept asking where I got them, all I said was don't worry about it, they are just things....Oh my funny, but overall it was a fun party! I enjoyed it, and can't wait to close the party to get our great stuff! Plus I can't wait to see the new catalog, it will come out in September. Oh if you want anything from the catalog before it ends, then you can add it to my order, just let me know!
Friday I get to spend the morning just lounging withe the kids and then I will clean in the afternoon....and then I am not sure what we will do for the evening maybe we will walk the boardwalk! Have a great day! Blessings~

Chip's handy work!

2008-08-08T07:13:00.000-07:00

Okay so we went to my parents house this past weekend! It was wonderful to be home and spend some stress free time with the family. They gave us a hedge trimmer and we also came home with a trash compactor! I was really excited about the hedge trimmer, our hedges have needed to be trimmed for a while, but we haven't had time or the trimmer! So when we got home Chip went right at it! I am so proud of him, and happy at how well it turned out.
Before:
After:
We also had a tree that Chip took down, we have some friends that are going to take the wood! But for now here is our progress with that:

We will be taking down one more tree, so if you need any wood for camp fires or for heating your home this winter let us know so we can save some for you, otherwise it will go to the city pick up!

What a GREAT week of VBS!

2008-07-26T19:51:00.000-07:00

This is my wonderful group of 4th graders, well almost all of them! They were amazing, and 6 of them made commitments to follow Christ, and the rest of them had already made the commitment! AMAZING, even my three wanderers asked God to come into their heart, and be their "forever friend". He was ever so present this week, and even though when Friday rolled around and I was glad it was Friday, I loved the fact that we could be blessed by God, and feel how much HE loves us despite all that we do.
Brooklynn was amazing, she loved going to VBS, or should I really say Kid's Camp! She asked today if we were going to go back, I said next year! She kept telling everyone she knew about it and told people that is where she was going to learn MORE about Jesus! Oh my goodness, did that touch my heart. Here she is 3 1/2 yrs old and excited to tell everyone that she is going to learn more about God, not fearful of what anyone will say or question. She challenges me to be more on fire for God, and to have that "child-like" faith, never afraid or concerned what everyone else thinks! He has truly blessed me with great kids, I want to always remember times like these, where we can serve our God together, and learn more about Him. May He equip me to be able to teach my children all about our Wonderful Savior! I want nothing more than for my children to know, love and serve HIM.
Here are just a few highlights from the week!

The first picture is of Miss. Jill, we were raising money to help her purchase a new handicap accessible van. The kids raised over two thousand dollars! Amazing! One of my kids brought a $20 bill and was so excited to put it in the offering, how great is it that he would use it for this rather than a new toy or something else he desired!

The nest picture is of the kids on their last game night, of course it ended in a water balloon fight!
The next two pictures are of the kids enjoying praise and worship! I had a fun group!

And of course I had to add one in of Andrew and Brooklynn, this was from one of the nights when we stayed later, the kids were troopers the whole week!

Prayers~

2008-07-21T21:37:00.000-07:00

Just a quick little blurb: I test tomorrow morning starting at 9 am....another 3hr. test~!
Again, please be praying for God to bless me, take my stress away and help me focus on what is at hand. I am really excited and nervous all rolled together~ I'll post tomorrow!~ Goodnight

South of the Border Corn Salad

2008-07-21T19:26:00.000-07:00

Only because you asked~ :)
Okay this is actually a Weight Watchers Recipe:
You will need:
1 lg. poblano chile
4 C. chopped lettuce
2C. peeled and shredded jimaca (about 1/2 pound)
16 cherry tomatoes, halved
6 T low sodium corn relish

Preheat the broiler. Line a sm. baking sheet with foil; place the chile on the baking sheet. Broil 5 inches from the heat, turning with tongs, until charred, about 5 min. Wrap the chile in foil and let steam 15 min. When cool enough to handle, peel, discard the seeds, and coarsely chop.
Combine the roasted poblano, lettuce, jicama, tomatoes, and corn relish in a large bowl/ Serve at once. Points per 1 cup serving is 1)

I then added the broiled Tex-Mex Steak to it:
Marinade Recipe is:
3 T tomato paste
1 chipotle en adobo plus 2T adobo sauce
Juice and grated zest of 1 lime
1 1/2 t ground cumin
I put the marinade in a zip-loc bag and add the steak. Refrigerate, 2 hours or overnight.
Spray the broiler pan with nonstick spray; preheat the broiler/ Remove the steak from the marinade; sprinkle both side with salt (1 t). Broil the steak 4 inches from the heat until done to taste, 8-9 min on each side for medium-rare. Let stand 10 min before carving.
I used about 1 1/2 lbs of sirloin steak.
This is only 4 pts per serving.

You can also do the steak and serve over any salad greens with any vinaigrette dressing! Yumm-O~

Thanks for asking for the recipe, have a great week!
Blessings~

Wow! What a Week!

2008-07-20T14:39:00.000-07:00

Okay so without my computer working this week I haven't been able to post.....
Tuesday the test went well! I scored in the high 90's. I was so excited and the second part of my test is scheduled for Tuesday at 9 am. It will be another 2 1/2 to 3 hour test then I will have to do an essay after finishing the test. This week also we have VBS, I will be leading one of the fourth grade classes. I can't wait to see what God has planned for them this week! Brooklynn is excited that she actually gets to go to the 4's class.....even though she isn't 4 yet. She is really ready and talking about it all the time! Okay so I still plan on making dinner for Chip and I, even though they will have dinner there, I know I won't be eating!

So here is my menu for this week!~
Monday:
Lunch-Noodles for lunch, with fruit
Dinner- South of the Border Corn Salad w/ Tex-Mex Steak
Tuesday:
Dinner-Moroccan Burgers and Watermelon
Wednesday:
Lunch-Egg Salad
Dinner-Thai-Style Peanut Noodles and Chicken
Thursday:
Lunch-Sloppy Joe
Dinner- Baked Ziti
Friday-
Lunch-left overs
Dinner-Balsamic Chicken with Caramelized Onions

I am not sure about Saturday but Sunday we will have MeatLoaf!

Today I am going to be cleaning house, as I know the rest of the week will be crazy! Although when I put the kiddos down maybe for a second I will get online and post pictures of Brooklynn's Pretty Pretty Princess week! Oh and Friday I took the kids for the first time to the Holland Aquatic Center....it was amazing not to mention kids 3 and under were free! I will post some pictures of that too!
Have a great day! Blessings~

Prayers Please~

2008-07-14T20:56:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow I will have a test that starts at 9 will be about 3 hours long. Please pray that God will bless me during this time. That my nerves would not be evident, and that I would focus on what I need to be focused on! God is in control, I know that with all my heart, now I have to believe it will all of my heart tomorrow! Thank you ahead of time for all your prayers. It's now midnight and I have to leave here tomorrow by 8:10 latest......
Blessings~

Menu Planning Monday!

2008-07-14T05:47:00.000-07:00

Okay so this is my first week doing the blog menu planning, but here goes!

Monday: Pancakes with Bacon Lunch-soup & sandwich Dinner- Chicken on the grill, green beans, and spring mix salad.
Tuesday: Eggs with Sausage Dinner- Spaghetti with garlic bread
Wednesday: Eggs and Toast Dinner for the kids- PB&J, carrots, and string cheese
Thursday: Homemade Cinnamon Rolls Dinner-Meatloaf, carrots, salad
Friday: Homemade Pizza and salad
Saturday: Hamburgers on the grill with a potato dill salad

Hope you have a great week of meals planned too! Blessings~

What a busy week!

2008-07-13T20:08:00.000-07:00

Literally I feel like this last week was about two weeks rolled into one! :) This last week was Pretty Pretty Princess week for Brooklynn, a camp held at the Y. She had an absolute ball, and wants to go again. Monday they had stylists come in from Red's salon and do all 35 of the girls hair! It was rainy that day and of course Brooklynn's naturally curly hair was in ringlets, and stayed. They loved doing her hair and said it was the easiest of all to do! She may like it now, but let's see when she is 15! Tuesday they had a lady from an etiquette school come and teach the girls proper table etiquette! Wednesday they had a tea party and got to decorate their own tea cup, which is displayed in my china cabinet! Thursday they had mani/pedi's and Friday they did a fashion show! She loved, loved, loved every min of it! I was not only the transporter for the week, but I still watched kids, cleaned two houses, catered for 28 people, and cleared out a portion of our closet! I know that this week is going to be just as busy. I will have 5 kids on Monday and Wednesday, and Brooklynn has school M-W-F, Tuesday I will be in Grand Rapids doing a test for 3 hrs. and then home...to rest and relax, and pray! I will have to be there at 8:45 the test starts at 9, pray if you think about it! I will be cleaning another house this week, and then hopefully finishing some yard work and some more organizing at our house! I have the label-er out and ready to go! Oh and Wednesday night we are going to have a babysitter, it will be probably the only night I will actually get to have a conversation with my husband, lol, but we are going to be going out with some friends who need some uplifting time! I suggested we go karaoke or country line dancing....lol....where else can you laugh more or have a great time just smiling! We all need just a little bit of time to escape from our lives and not care about anything, no stress, no frustrations, no sickness, nothing but laughing at each other, and enjoying finding the love of life and youthfulness again... and I can't remember what else I have to do right now. Chip has just as busy a week, he is an amazing man!
So maybe here is my wish list of accomplishments for Monday: getting our sheets washed and folded tomorrow, oh and maybe I could throw in another load after that too! I also want to finish my closet during nap time!! (maybe, if they sleep!) Monday night, I would like to reorganize my cold closet in my kitchen....did I mention I have the label-er in working order...I'm going to go crazy!!! I'm excited, I love to organize...I just hate the messiness of how life can get especially in a small house! Then I am going to put the kids to bed and read, and then hit the sack.
For the week, I plan on walking Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday. I will make out my menu for the week tomorrow, I am going to do pancakes in the morning with bacon, and sandwiches and soup for lunch, and then chicken on the grill with salad, and green beans for dinner. Easy day of food....I'll do the Monday's Menu post tomorrow! I plan on rolling dough on Tuesday to make fresh cinnamon rolls and freeze some too. I am really excited about the new recipe I will let you know how they turn out and post some pictures too!
Hope you had a great week, I can't wait to destress on Wednesday night...this is the first time we are going to do this but maybe it should be a more frequent event, or as frequent as we can afford a babysitter, lol! And singing and dancing are really free events....maybe as a Wesleyan PW I shouldn't talk about dancing...lol!
I had more I wanted to post, but I am tired and can't think anymore. I will post some pictures of Brooklynn at her Pretty Pretty Princess camp tomorrow night! Sleep well...
Blessings~

Amazing Parents!

2008-07-08T12:39:00.000-07:00

One of my MOST favorite pictures of my mom and dad!

Okay so, this was taken a while ago, and of course is taken by me but that isn't why I love it so much. It isn't professional, and isn't staged; they are having a fun time, enjoying a cruise, and most of all I see joy exuding from their inner souls! This is my parents! They are happy people, God has richly blessed them! Story behind this picture: I know we were finished eating, I think we were getting ready to go to the show, or maybe just coming from it. I always have a great time with my mom and dad, I love when they are smiling, and love to make them laugh!

They are amazing people.

My mom is my best friend, and truly my confidant. I don't know how I would ever make it through anything without her. She is concerned about everyone else but herself. She works for the hospital treating cancer patients. She is great at what she does! Almost always when I go home we will see one of her patients, or family of a patient, and they always thank her and tell her how much she did for their family. She volunteers for the church, actually all of my life she has been a part of the church some way or another. She is an amazing, driven, independent, happy, smart, inspiring woman. She is an amazing mother, she always made sure we had what we needed, and wanted. She isn't finished mothering, she continues to look after us. She has done a great job, and would never give herself as much credit as she deserves, but she did the best job raising us. I only hope one day to be the woman, mother, wife, and friend that she is! I only hope that Brooklynn and I will have that close of a relationship one day. I love that my kids adore their Mimi, she is so good with them. I could go on and on about how wonderful she is, simply she is the best mom ever!
My dad is amazing as well! He as well as mom is busy looking after others, he works hard at comforting people every day. He is a gentle, consoling, smart, quiet, determined, happy man! Both my parents are prayer-saturated, but I will always remember my dad kneeling to pray every morning in his room, door slightly ajar. He has such a gentle way of bathing things in prayer, and I am more appreciative of it now. Being that my dad is a funeral director he is used to getting calls all hours of the night, which makes it easier if needed to call for prayer~ he never scuffs about it he will just pray! (Let me tell you, I have called in the wee hours more often than not!) Bu they are amazing parents that love their children!!! He is such a hard worker, he has made sure that he has provided for all of us, and he has also planted that determination in our souls. My kids also are Papaw kids, they always ask to talk with him on the phone, and care so much about him! Again, same as with my mom, I could go on and on about how wonderful he is~ he is amazing and the best dad ever!

So this picture probably will continue to be on my "most" favorite list. I know there are a lot to choose from! Chip laughs at me, because they are in an elevator on a cruise we were on together. He says it's just because I wish I were on the cruise again! :) I do wish I was on a cruise too~

I love you mom and dad!

First day of the Sale!

2008-07-04T12:37:00.000-07:00

QUICK UPDATE:

It went well today, sold a lot of things! Wish I could sell a lot more tomorrow. I have our kitchen island and changing table that are our bigger items that are left from today. Brooklynn did a great job with the lemonade today! It is amazing how much little kids can make from a lemonade table! I told her she could keep all the money and buy something special with it. I am actually really surprised how well we did today seeing as how I didn't put it in the paper. I hope tomorrow is just as successful! It is amazing to see just how much stuff you end up with once you have kids. I seriously have enough to have three more days of sales.
Funny thing: Brooklynn loved all of our "costumers" she wanted us to have more come and really didn't want to take a nap. Thank goodness there wasn't anyone outside when they went down.
Andrew wanted everyone to see Bailey, he kept saying "Baey Dog"
So since Chip is gone all day, I am going over to a friends for dinner tonight. I was going to bring Bailey with us but I think she will be fine for about 3 hours in her house.
So I have to go get the kids dressed, pack things up from outside, and shower. I will blog about tomorrow! Please pray we at least sell our big items! Otherwise Chip says they go to Good Will. He has a good point, there is a great feeling getting rid of things and blessing others with our things! I told someone a memory about one of Brooklynn's dresses....seriously funny, she didn't mind!

HAPPY FOURTH OF JULY!!!!