One Happy Creative Mama

Meal Plan Monday 6/27/2011

2011-06-27T15:50:00.000-07:00

This week of summer vacation we are cleaning, organizing and learning. The kids love to "play school" and I love it too! We are hoping to make it to the park this week and to the drive ins for Cars 2. The movie will be the highlight of the summer I am sure!

Here is our meal plan for dinner....We pretty much eat the same thing for breakfast and lunch. I have started a pinterest board to get more ideas! Oh and its showing rain for the next two days. Crazy for end of June!

Our dinners are pretty average summer food. I am on the look out for summer sides that are easy and yummy! Maybe I will start a pinterest board for that to!

Hamburgers, sweet potato fries, salad and veggie tray

Skirt Steak, we will make tacos with this and have beans, rice and salad

Pork Ribs, potatoes on the grill and corn

Brats/ hot dogs salad and veggie tray

BLT's salad and veggie

Linking up to Organized Junkie Meal Plan Monday!

Do you pinterest? I am pretty darn addicted! I love finding "my style" and getting so many great ideas and storing them in one place.

Have a great week!

Meal Plan Monday - First Week of Summer!

2011-06-20T14:34:00.000-07:00

This week is the first full week of Summer for us! Very excited in the thought of the next two months of free time! But that means I have to come up with how to fill the free time! We have a list of goals we want to do this summer. And I will share that later. My goal this summer is to get back into blogging!

Not only do we need to find activites each day we also need to eat! Here is what is on the line up for this week....

Monday:

B - Yogurt and Granola and Fruit

L - PB&J, Fruit Salad and Crackers

D - Skirt Steak (tacos for the kiddos and salad for the parents) with veggie and dip and fruit

Tuesday:

B- Breakfast Cookies and Fruit

L- Make your own pizza using biscuit dough

D- BBQ Chicken, Salad and Broccoli

Wednesday:

B-Rainbow Waffles and Fruit

L-Quesadillas and Fruit

D-Pork Ribs, Salad

Thursday;

B- Cereal and Fruit

L- Turkey and Cheese Roll ups and Fruit

D - Our 10 year Wedding Anniversary! Jason and I are going out and the kiddos are going to the Grandparents.

Friday I will be going grocery shopping so next Monday will be the two week meal plan!

Have a great week!

What are you eating?

Linked up to Meal Plan Monday with Orgjunkie!

I'm a mini van Mama.....

2010-05-10T13:07:00.000-07:00

I LOVE this video! Makes me laugh out loud! If you know anything about me you know this van is my dream car!!!!

Favorite line: "I'm Kinda A Big Deal"

Enjoy!

Happy Earth Day...Everyday!

2010-04-22T14:35:00.000-07:00

Today is Earth Day....Always makes me giggle because shouldn't everyday be Earth Day? Should we be doing something different that we don't always do? Over the years I have been trying to be more and more "green" because really, it cost less...So being frugal I am being green. I like that.

Here are two of my favorite ways to celebrate Earth Day Everyday.....

Compost...Compost...Compost! We just started last year but it has been wonderful for our garden. For some reason it makes me smile to see the pile of greens, egg shells and such on my counter top knowing they will "feed" us again.

Household cleaners. When I can. This was A Lot easier when I had just one child. Now my brain is so scattered I forget to make them before I run out. I have made cleaners for surface cleaning, bathroom cleaner, floor cleaner, laundry soap, baby wipes....When I cannot make my own I prefer Method mostly for the delightful scents! My all time favorite is the Ginger yuzu Multi-Surface cleaner. (which I have only found at the Wholefoods in Roseville...kills me!) I also adore the Pink Grapefruit Multi-Surface, ALL of the Ylang Ylang Bathroom Cleaners and the Almond hardwood floor cleaners. All make me happy to clean!!!
Recently I discovered Dr. Bronner's Magic Soaps. This is just what it says Magic! I use it for everything. A small bottle lasts a long time since to add just a few drops to the water. In fact last week I ran out of my beloved Ginger yuzu cleaner and filled the bottle with water with a few drops of the Magic Soap and I am hooked! I love how clean everything gets! My favorite is the Almond! (can you tell I am all about scents when it comes to cleaning!)

Food and Cleaning...Pretty much sums up my life!

Oh and today I cleaned out the shoe box and have a big bag of shoes to donate. So that kinda counts as celebrating Earth day...Recycle...Reuse.

Happy Earth Day!

Ally has an Earth Day song...But she cannot remember it.

Ultimate Recipe Swap - Beans and Lentils

2010-04-21T21:18:00.000-07:00

We eat beans and lentils in some variation at least once a meal plan. We make chili's, soups, mexican food of all types (our favorite!) we use beans and lentils in salads, pasta and I have even tried black bean brownies (not too bad...). I use to be a strictly can bean Gal but lately in my quest of eating better and less processed I have been using dried. I found that if I soak my beans and then freeze them in 1-2 cup servings they are easy to use at anytime and no need to worry about soaking.

Lentils are new to me but I love them! They are easy to prepare and take on the flavor of whatever you are making. I add lentils to my taco meat or spaghetti sauce to pump it up so I can use less ground meat.

I had found this recipe on 5Dollar Dinners but variations of this is all over the web. And this recipe is by far our favorite because it can be used many different ways and one batch makes a lot. It is can be changed by whatever you have on hand. I have added veggies and black beans to make it more of a meal and to sneak in added nutrients for my kiddos.

Lentil and Rice Burritos

1 cup rice, uncooked

1 cup green lentils, uncooked

2 1/4 cup water/stock (whatever we have in the freezer or pantry)- for rice

4 cups water/stock combo - for lentils

1/2 of an onion, finely chopped

1 small can tomato paste

1 packet Taco Seasoning (I make our own)

Bring 2 1/4 of water to a boil. Add 1 cup of rice. Return to boil. Then reduce heat, cover and simmer 20 minutes until rice is done.

Bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add 1 cup lentils. Cook lentils in 4 cups of water for 20-30 minutes until tender. Drain off excess water.

Combine cooked rice and lentils in large saucepan. Add tomato paste + 2 tomato paste cans worth of water. Stir through. Add onions, seasoning packet or spices. Let simmer about 10 minutes. Check on it to make sure it doesn’t get too “dry”.

Spoon lentil-rice mixture into tortilla. Top with favorite burrito toppings: cheese, salsa, guac....Wrap up burrito style!

Some of our other favorite ways to use this recipe:

"Lentil and Rice Burrito Bowl" topped with our favorite topping and eat with tortilla chips.

Use in any mexican style recipe...Tostada's, Mexican Casserole, Tacos, Taquitos, Crispy Baked Burritos....

In fact I will be making some this weekend....Its great for a crowd!

Check out Life As Mom Ultimate Recipe Swap Beans and Lentils for more ideas or to link up your own recipes!

A new Love.....

2010-04-20T14:44:00.000-07:00

I have found a new love. One that involves fabric, sewing, creating and fun! Four of my favorite things! Last night I went to my first ever Quilting Class.

A friend from Preschool is teaching the class at the shop her Mom is part owner in. And a friend from Preschool (who's son went to school with Elyse also) is taking it too. So Monday nights are doubly fun! To be Quilting and to have some friend time! I went in about an hour early to pick out my fabric. I do have to say I am glad I came an hour before class and also glad I did not go any earlier! Their selection of fabric is just amazing. And if you know me I love fabric! It was hard to pick for just the quilt....I was thinking of dresses and bags and skirts and tops and home decor as I was looking at the fabric lined up. I had to keep telling myself to FOCUS!!!

I picked out a really fun and cheerful selection of blue, red, green, yellow and pink fabrics. We made three blocks in class with the homework assignment of 5 more at home! YES! I have HOMEWORK!!! I am so flipping excited.

I wish I could share some pictures....But both cameras are no longer working. Which makes me so very sad. I was hoping I would be able to just go buy the Nikon I want but it is just not happening so I will have to settle for a lesser (cheaper) model. But hey, at least I will be able to take pictures!!

A Blog I LOVE!!!

2010-04-05T11:14:00.000-07:00

I found this blog about eight months ago and fell in LOVE! She is amazing! I finally purchased a set of her Posy Pins and I get a smile on my face everytime I wear one. Her blog has fun craft and decorating ideas on it along with fun personal inpiration for me!

She is celebrating 3 years blogging and is having an awesome sale and giveaway!

Check it out, You won't be disappointed!

Pleated Poppy Birthday Giveaway!

Busy Week!

2010-04-05T11:05:00.000-07:00

After a fun spring break its back into the swing of real life. Last week I took the Kiddos to Boulder Creek for a couple nights. The kids had so much fun! And I am really proud of myself for driving 3 hours alone to a place I had never been. Plus taking a side trip to Moneterey to visit the aquarium! This is HUGE for me! Turning 32 next week has me thinking I need to start stepping outside my box and doing things I am too scared to do. The trip was exactly what I needed to do. It was very impowering.

So after the week away, I found I did not get anything done that I need to get down! Like rearrange the rooms to set up my craft room and to finally clean out my room which houses all of my craft supplies! Plus I am getting ready to move Cooper into a big boy bed. Yeah, he will be three in May. LMAO!

Starting off the week right I did meal plan! Here is what is scheduled this week for Dinner:

PW Comfort Meatballs, Smashed Potatoes, Salad and Broccoli
Chicken and Blackbean Quesadillas and a Veggie
Stir Fry and Fried Rice
PW Simple, Perfect Enchiladas, Mexican Rice and Salad
Parm Taliapa, Lemon Spaghetti and Artichokes

This week is busy with Friends being in town, Working in the Preschool, Sub Committee Meeting, Girl Scouts and Tie Dye Party at Elyse's School. Thinking this week should go by FAST!

OAMC Success!!!! Here is how it went down......

2010-03-08T13:05:00.000-08:00

So here is my adventure in OAMC! I ended up doing it over a two week period as I had time. Instead of doing it all in a day or weekend. As the week started I went to take a picture and found that the lens was stuck out....I figured the battery was dead. Nope, the kids had been taking their own pictures and broke the camera! So no pictures of this adventure. I wish I had photo proof of my inside freezer and big ol' outside freezer stocked full of yummy food goodness!

I split my shopping into two trips. Taking three kiddos to shop for a months worth of food is not my or their idea of fun! I went to Costco, Winco, Trader Joes and Safeway. All and All I spent $303 dollars for Breakfast Lunch and Dinner for the month. This is WAY cheaper than normal. Which makes me very happy. I also had a lot of the meat and seasonings in my fridge. Which I think helped keep my cost down.

It worked out really well doing it over the two weeks. Especially since I only have one crockpot and limited dishes to actually freeze in before putting it in the food saver. A lot of these meals I made a batch for that day and then froze two or three more. I also had carnitas, hamburger and chicken leftover that I froze in serving size portions for something different (and easy) if we wanted it. I was schocked when I counted everything up. It really added up doing it over the weeks time.

We are feeding a family of 5 plus leftovers for the husband to take to lunch.

38 Breakfasts
30 Lunches
43 dinners

111 meals for $303

Here is the Menu:

Breakfast:
Mini Pancakes (some with chocolate chips for a special treat) -8
French Toast Sticks - 4
Eggwiches - 6
Breakfast Burritos -6
Breakfast Muffins - 6
Homemade Pop Tarts - 4
Sausage Gravy - 4

Lunch:
Bean and Cheese Burritos - 6
Peanut Butter and Jelly - 10
Pizza Pockets - 4
Chicken Nuggets - 6
Ranch Ham and Swiss Crescents -4

Dinner:
Black Bean Salsa Chicken - 2
Sloppy Joes - 2
Asian Pork Roast - 2
Easy Taco Bake - 2
Tacos in Pasta Shells - 2
Beef Empanadas - 2
Asian Chicken Pitas -2 (plus I made the pitas and froze them seperatly)
Enchilada Casserole -2
Taquitos - 4
Carnita Burritos - 3
Cowboy Calzones - 2
Chicken wrapped Bacon - 2
Teriyaki Chicken - 2
Chicken Ranch Pizza (plus pizza dough) - 2
Peperoni Pizza - 4
Meatloaf - 4
Meatballs - 4

I will for SURE be doing this again! After planning for over 5 years I am very happy with the results!

** There are a lot of recipes here. I was planning on posting them all but ran out of time! I hope to do so later this week or next!

Check Once A Month Mom for more inspiration and recipes!

Pot Luck Idea....Something different

2010-02-21T16:42:00.000-08:00

I'm always unsure of what to bring to a potluck. I want something that is good (obviously!) and something different. We make these all the time for our family and recently I have brought them to potlucks. And have had rave reviews!

Southwest Eggrolls

1 box Spanish Rice
1 lb shredded Chicken
1 can black beans drained and rinsed
6 green onions
1 packet taco seasoning
2 cups Monterey jack shredded
1 can tomatoes and green chilis drained
Egg Roll wrappers

Cook rice according to package directions. Combine all ingredients
Fill Egg rolls with ¼ cup (or less for an appetizer) of filling and fold up
Fry until golden

Creamy Cilanto Dipping Sauce

1 package Cream Cheese
1 cup Sour Cream
3 cloves of Garlic
1 can diced tomato and green chillis undrained
Cilantro
Lime Juice

Combine in food processor
Chill before serving

**The filling and dipping sauce can be made into a quesadilla the next night. Which is fantastic!

***Posted on Life As Mom Ultimate recipe swap. I love this site! So many great ideas and recipes!

OAMC Update

2010-02-17T10:39:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I started shopping for my Once a Month Menu...After going to two stores I spent less than $300 for 32 dinners, 14+ Breakfasts and Lunches. Not too bad if I do say so myself. I was going to start cooking in two weeks but I am excited and am going to start doing it in parts over the next two weeks. Plus I don't want to be overwhelmed. lol.

Here is the list of meals: (I will post recipes when I do my final write up!)

Breakfast:
Mini Pancakes (some with chocolate chips for a special treat)
French Toast Sticks
Eggwiches
Breakfast Burritos
Breakfast Muffins
Homemade Pop Tarts
Sausage Gravy

Lunch:
Bean and Cheese Burritos
Peanut Butter and Jelly
Pizza Pockets
Chicken Nuggets
Ranch Ham and Swiss Crescents
(still looking for a few more ideas)

Dinner:
Black Bean Salsa Chicken
Sloppy Joes
Asian Pork Roast
Easy Taco Bake
Tacos in Pasta Shells
Beef Empanadas
Asian Chicken Pitas
Enchilada Casserole
Taquitos
Carnita Burritos
Cowboy Calzones
Chicken wrapped Bacon
Teriyaki Chicken
Chicken Ranch Pizza (plus pizza dough)
Meatloaf
Meatballs

I am still looking on some side dishes I can have in the freezer too. Any suggestions?

OAMC Status Update

2010-02-10T10:34:00.000-08:00

I have been working really hard on my OAM menu plan. The list keeps getting longer and longer! I need to really sit down and and narrow down to what I want to do without getting so overwhelmed.

I plan on having

4-5 breakfasts doubled or more
4-5 lunches
16 Dinners doubled in some form or another.
4-5 snacks doubled and more

Plus on hand breads, sauces and mixes.

I have until Monday February 15th to submit my menu to www.onceamonthmom.com

I started my sourdough starter on Sunday.....fingers crossed!

Once A Month Cooking Challenge!

2010-02-01T20:19:00.000-08:00

So its been a while since I blogged. Life has been so amazing and crazy with school starting. I work 2-3 times a month in Elyse's class, work 2-3 times a month in Ally's class. Plus I am co leader to Elyse's girl scout Daisy troop and Vice President to the Parent Board at the Preschool. Add on homework, cleaning house, cooking, playing and spending quality time with the kiddos (plus my need to be creative!) leaves little time for blogging.

That being said I miss blogging. About the kiddos, life, my numerous craft projects, cleaning schedules and cooking......Since I had Elyse I read about freezer cooking or Once a month cooking and dreamed every meal plan that I would do it. To help with the now breakfast rush and with our lunches and dinner. One of my goals this year is to take the plunge and do it. I am so very excited. I have been researching and working out how our favorite meals can be frozen. And when I ask the family they say they want...My tacos, tacos and taco (so no real help!...lol Oh Cooper said he wanted my french fries and Ally said she wanted just Turkey and Cheese)Plus add on to the fact I want to start eating "real food" which means NO processed or pre made foods. Yikes! Which means I make EVERTHING! Thats a lot to take on with everything I just mentioned but I think it will be fun as long as I am organized!

So while I was making my lists and lists of meals and structure I was thinking it would be a great way to get back to blogging. To blog my progress on how I am doing and how it all is turing out. LOL.

And today one of my FAVORITE OAMC blogs has posted a challenge to do Once a Month Cooking for the month a February. Check it out HERE.

I am not going to do the actual cooking until February 26th I will be posting how I am preparing before then.

Sounds like a lot of work....But I am way pumped up and excited about it. Imagine a freezer full of meals for the ENTIRE month. Its what I dream about now! (yes, I'm still a dork)

Oh check out some of the buttons to the right that I put up..my new favorite craft blogs. I seriously want to be friends with these ladies!

Meal Plan Monday 9/14 - 9/17

2009-09-14T13:59:00.000-07:00

September 14 - September 17

Its a short week with Jason maybe (or not) going out of town.

Monday: Tacos, Black Beans and Salad

Tuesday:Mac & Cheese Cups with Broccoli and Green Salad

Wednesday: Garlic Dijon Grilled Chicken, Orzo and Zucchini

Thursday: Steak Sandwiches, Roasted Potatoes and Salad

A whole hand = grown up! Elyse is 5!

2009-05-14T13:56:00.000-07:00

My sweet little lady is 5 today! "I'm a whole hand Mama! And that means I am all grown up!" she said with such excitment this morning when she woke up at 5:45am!

We had a party to celebrate Elyse and her friend Lauren turning 5 one day apart at the park with their preschool friends. We had a great time and beat the heat!

Tonight we are having tacos and ice cream cake per the request of the birthday girl. And on Sunday we will have a family party to celebrate both Cooper and Elyse!

Time sure does fly by! Tonight we go for our very first parent meeting for Kindy! I hope I don't cry too much!...LOL...

And a very happy birthday to our friend Aiden who turns two today!

Mr. Cooper is 2 today!

2009-05-12T08:14:00.001-07:00

Today my sweet handsome love of a boy is 2! Time goes by too fast. He is my heart. I just melt every time I see his sweet face. He is all boy but loves his Mama so much. Today we are heading out to the zoo for some fun!! His birthday party is on Sunday. Its a joint party for him and Elyse!

I asked him how old he was this morning and he said "12" and held up both hands! Oh boy!

Happy Birthday Mr. Cooper!

***Oh and for two days I have a 4 year old, a 3 year old and a 2 year old. How cool is that!?...LOL....***

Back to real life....

2009-04-22T13:06:00.000-07:00

On Monday our dear friend Seth moved back to Oregon. He lived with us for 6 months. And let me tell you I sure do miss the boy! He became my right hand man helping with kids, chores, errands and an ear to listen to me! Today was my first day back in the grove alone. I sure have been spoiled! I forgot how hard it is to run errands and go to preschool alone with three young kiddos! But we survived!! Hopefully I will get back into the grove of blogging more too! Back to my real life!

Lets see...What have we been up to?

Elyse got into the elementry school we wanted her to go to! That was very exciting and emotional when I registered her. I cannot believe next month she is turing 5! Time really does fly by. She is certainly a "mini me" and I need to remind her that I am the Mom not her. LOL...

Ally is signed up for Preschool in the fall. I cannot believe it is time for her to start school. She is growing up way too fast and is becoming a fiesty little three year old. She cracks me up everyday.

Cooper is still a Mama's boy. But he is starting to venture out more and show how much of a boy he is! I had no idea the difference between little boys and girls!...LOL...Keeps me on my toes.

I turned 31 last week. Not as hard as turning thirty!...Just embracing being older now! I celebrated by going to the Britney Spears concert the weekend before. It was so much fun! I drank and danced like I was young! I had to keep up with my sister and her friend! But I did pay for it for days! The end of May I am going to Vegas again with my girlfriends. I am so excited I can hardly stand it!

My sister Morgan is due June 18th with a little girl. Isabelle Grace. We had her babyshower last weekend and it was great! I cannot believe my little sis is going to be a Mama. I am excited to be an Auntie! My turn to spoil!...LOL....

Its starting to get hot here. Let Summer begin! I cannot wait to go to the beach and swim! Now that all my kiddos are of age to go out and play we will have a blast this summer!

So thats life in a nutshell!...LOL...Hopefully next blog post will not be so long!

Blog Much!?!

2009-03-01T20:33:00.000-08:00

Wow its been a long time! We have been super busy lately. Or maybe I am just trying to juggle all of us and what we need to do! Its hard to do! I am trying to focus on my new year resolutions. However, I cannot tell if its actually working in making my life easier!...LOL...

March 2nd Ally is 3! Thats tomorrow! We had so much fun bowling today! But I will share that later along with the pictures when I get them back from the crew!...LOL..

I feel so bad for being out of the loop of all of my friends! Hopefully soon I will catch up with everyone! Hugs!

The Ant Battle.....

2009-01-15T09:30:00.000-08:00

I have been having epic battles daily with ants. This has been going on for a week or so. Kitchen, Bedrooms, living room, Bathroom....I have tried everything and they will not go away. And did I mention...I HATE ants.

Yesterday I was getting ready to make my tomato sauce. I pulled out the pan and it was covered in ants. SO....We had take out pizza instead. I just could not stand to cook after the battle. Made my skin crawl!

I am in the middle of another battle but I had to take a break or I would scream!!! I wish I could just spray Raid and be done with it!

Prayers Please

2009-01-14T16:03:00.000-08:00

Our friends found out this week their two year old little girl Zoe has leukemia. Its a rare form, the good thing is its recovery rate is almost 100 percent for females. On Friday she will start chemo. Please Please Please keep Zoe and her family in your prayers. Zoe's older sister Genna just turned five on Friday and goes to school with Elyse. It has taken everything in my power to not just break down in tears, especially when I saw Genna today with her Grandma and not with her Mom and Zoe. I have been thinking about their family all week long and thought this is the best thing I can do right now, ask for prayers.

Chocolate Pumpkin Mini Muffins

2009-01-14T15:43:00.000-08:00

Chocolate Pumpkin Mini Muffins

Devils Food Cake Mix
15oz can of Pumpkin

Mix just the two ingredients together. It will be thick but do not add anything else! Spoon into greased mini muffin tin. Bake at 400 degrees for around 10 minutes.

***Oh my goodness! They are SO good! You cannot taste the pumpkin, just chocolate! Its like chocolate cake!! I do not feel SO guilty when we eat 2 or 4! Hey at least the kiddos are getting a veggie! Right!?

We had tacos last night. They are always a hit here so need to review to remember!

Crockpot Chicken Sandwiches Review

2009-01-13T12:54:00.001-08:00

Crockpot Chicken Sandwiches

Chicken ( I used tenders because that is what I had!)
Dry onion soup mix
Garlic Salt ( I used garlic powder to cut down on salt)
Italian Salad Dressing (I used enough to coat the chicken)
1/4 water

Place in crockpot 3-5 hours on high. Serve on your favorite Rolls.

**My notes**
Since I used tenders it was a good size for the rolls. I did however shred it for the kids. They ate the chicken over their pasta.

Jason and Seth have told me they would like this again very soon. It was really good and really easy to make. This will go into my list of meals to stockpile.

Meal Plan Monday 1/12 (on tuesday!)

2009-01-13T12:31:00.000-08:00

Breakfasts: (rotated)

Tator Tot, Sausage and Egg Casserole with Fruit

Cheesy Eggs and Toast with Fruit

Mini Pancakes with Fruit

Breakfast Burritos with Fruit

Toast, Yogurt and Fruit

Lunches:

PBJ

Mac and Cheese

Quesadillas

Bentos (a little bit of everything)

Snacks:

Chocolate and Pumpkin Muffins

Pineapple muffins

No bake Granola Bars

Dinners:

Crockpot Chicken Sandwiches with steamed Veggies and Pasta

Tacos with Mexican rice and taco salad

Tomato Sauce in the Crockpot - 3 different meals

1. Spaghetti, Meatballs, Salad and Garlic Bread

2. Homemade Pizza - Pepperoni - Chicken Bacon Ranch

3. Ravioli Lasagna

Whole Chicken in the Crockpot - 2 meals

1. Chicken Pot Pies

2. Chicken Noodle Soup (making homemade stock to use)

This week I am going to try to post the recipe after we have it. I need a better way to keep up with what our family loves to eat!

The day is here!!

2009-01-09T15:37:00.000-08:00

Today was open enrollment for school. I met up with Ali, Kelly and her friend Kim. The time passed pretty fast chatting, plus we did not have the kids, so that was nice! Why did we not take pictures to blog ladies!...LOL...

Elyse is on her way in the school system! Now the waiting game begins...April we find out if we got the school we wanted! I know it will be here soon, but it seems so far away today! Please say a prayer for us! I love the school we want!!!

**sigh** Elyse is going to big kid school in the fall. Time flys!

Organized in 09'

2009-01-06T12:02:00.000-08:00

This is the year I want to get REALLY organized. In all areas of my life. For so long now I have made excuses for things and really its because I am not organized. Now I know this will not happen overnight. I know it will take time. I love being organized and having a plan. I did so well until I had Cooper. He is now almost 20 months and I need to get it together!

I searched around the web and read a few books this last weekend. I finally decided to focus each month on something specific to reach my organize and happy goal! Each month I will do things in my life to fit the "word or words" for the month. I got this main idea from The Inspired Room. In fact, I loved her "words" so much I am using them myself. I rearranged them for what I want to accomplish and when. I have found a lot of blogs that will help me reach my goals. I just love blogs!!!

Here are my 12 months:

Routines
Organization
Balance
Solitude (reg quiet time)
Family
Financial
Contentment
Healthy Living
Ambiance
Hospitality
Gratitude
Giving

My Goals: (some of them)

1. To be more organized in my home, life and business
2. To have a cleaning schedule and stick to it
3. Start using my household binder again
4. To read more books for my enjoyment
5. Have more family time
6. To meal plan and budget weekly
7. Make time for Scrapbooking and Crafting for myself, friends and family. Do what makes me feel happy.
8. To be more successful in my Stampin' Up! Business
9. To have more patience with my children, husband and life
10. To be the best Mother and Wife

I have a few more goals, but they are personal goals that I do not want to share. Those goals will more than likely be the hardest to accomplish.

So there it is folks, my goals and the start of my plan. Here's to being your best in 2009!

I totally understand now....

2009-01-02T19:17:00.001-08:00

Well...I know I have not posted my goals, or talked about Christmas or New Years. I have been bitten...lol...I crack myself up!!!

One of my goals is to read more books. I went to the bookstore and got Twilight. Yes, my good friend Carrie has the entire series on her ipod for me. Yes, I should of gotten it from her last week or last month. But I could not resist when I saw it yesterday at the bookstore. I finished the book in one day. Thank goodness Jason was home to be the adult in the house. Thank goodness Jason is at the bookstore buying me New Moon right now....

I now understand what the fuss is all about. Oh my!

Carrie, Now that I read the book....when is our date to see the movie?

XOXO!

Last post of 2008!!!

2008-12-31T08:43:00.000-08:00

I cannot believe its New Years Eve. Gone are the days of shopping for the perfect outfit and planning the perfect celebration! Tonight we will be at home in our pj's ringing in the new year. IF I can stay up til midnight. I do have to say I am really excited for 2009. So many events to look forward to! My goal this year is "Get Organized in 09" In the next couple of days I plan on posting my goals so I can hold myself accountable. I am really excited for this step and have started to map out how I can make my goals happen!

Happy New Year!!!!

Random Pictures!

2008-12-10T10:48:00.000-08:00

Here are some pictures from Thanksgiving, Christmas Tree Hunting and Other random shots of my fam!..yes, I know...FINALLY!

The Boy.....

2008-12-01T16:07:00.000-08:00

Melissa wanted an update on Cooper....so here it is! I wish I had pictures but I am using a friends computer right now AND my camera is still at my Moms! Cooper is wonderful! He is the sweetest funniest and my best guy! He sure is a Mamas boy but he is starting to branch out!...LOL...Our friend Seth moved in with us and is training to be a cage fighter. So we have a little gym set up in our garage. Every time the door opens Cooper runs out to the garage and jumps on the dummy (or whatever it is) and starts punching it! It is the cutest thing in the world! Though I wonder what kind of trouble he will get into! He loves his "boy time" now with Dad and Seth!

I have to say boys are SO different than girls. Cooper will destroy anything and have a smile on his face. We call him ninja because he is so sneaky! Watch your cell phones, drinks, computers.....His favorite thing to do right now is take my diet coke cans that are not open and hide them around the house. Needless to say it drives me crazy to find them in my bathtub, bed and laundry! However, he is so sweet and calm. He always has a smile on his face and has the cutest little laugh! He is starting to throw little fits but they never last long and he is smiling very soon after!

He is 25 pounds and a shorty. Takes after his Mama and Dad for sure! You know Elyse looks just like me, Ally just like Jason and Cooper is a perfect mix of them both! He finally started walking at 16 months and now he never stops. From the minute he wakes up to the minute he crashes for the night he is running around! I cannot believe he is going to be 19 months on the 12th. Goes by too fast, I am sad I do not have little babies anymore!

We joke that Cooper is a vegetarian, mostly dairy free and not a lover of sweets. So, he does not eat meat, only drinks milk and eats yogurt and does not like anything sweet. He does love soda (hence you need to hide yours!), bananas, apples and toast. If anyone can help me to find a way to feed him I am ready to listen! I give him whatever we eat but he does not eat it! He would rather go hungry I guess? I have been doing everything I can, I do what the doctors say and its not getting any better! I know I should not worry, (doctors say not to) but I have never had an eater this picky!

Anyways, there is the update my sweet handsome baby boy!

Thankful.....so thankful.

2008-11-28T13:07:00.000-08:00

Lately I have been so emotional about my children. Elyse is going to be 5 in May and that means Kindy in August. I have been overloaded in trying to find the best school for her. And I thought Preschool was hard! With elementry school its so much harder trying to get into the right one for us! Everyday I look at Elyse and just cannot get over how grown up she is. She is so helpful lately, being a wonderful big sister helping me out any time she can. Today she went to her room and got dressed all by herself, and I must say she looked really cute! Capri leggings, her crown shirt and a sweatshirt that matched. I was about to second guess the capri leggings at 60 degrees, but this girl gets hot and rolls up any pants no matter what temp it is! Then she told me to me it was time to do her hair and she wanted pig tails, no ribbons (yes kelly, NO RIBBONS!) I about died. She is so independent and I want to cry! I cannot believe she is 4 1/2. I am so proud of her. She is so smart and says the funniest things that make her sound 24! I am so sad that to me it was just days ago I was giving birth to her. The first time you give birth is a time you can never duplicate. I have three children and each have been very different and special. But none of them compare to the time of Elyse coming into this world. I have been telling my sister that she needs to enjoy this pregrancy because it will never be this special. I know that sounds bad. Being pregnant with Ally and Cooper were amazing. They both came into this world very different and so wonderful. I love giving birth, I have special stories to tell of each of their births. They were just different than Elyse. If you have more than one child I know you know what I am trying to say. I always say Elyse made me a Mom, Ally and Cooper made me a parent. They all hold a special place in my heart.

I wanted to talk about all 3 but I went on to much here....With this being the Thanksgiving holiday I have so much to be Thankful for. Yes, there are days I want to pull my hair out and other days I want time to stand still. I want to capture it all. My wonderful Children are the light of my life. I would be nothing without them. I know times are hard, but I also know it won't last. And yes, sounds crazy I do not want them to end (except for Ally's terrible 2's...they are seriously killing me!!!)

Happy Birthday Jason!

2008-11-08T11:34:00.000-08:00

Wow its been a long time! I need to make an appointment to blog!...LOL...So much to talk about and to share! But of course no time to share it all!

The most important is today Jason is 36! He is wondering when his flight leaves for Vegas and when the party bus is picking us up tonight!...LOL...I told him he should of planned better! Maybe when he turns 40!

Maybe next week when Jason is out of town I will get a moment in the late hours of the night to post more about our life!

Here are just a few things.....

*roomate
*marriage
*pregnancy (not mine!)
*elementary school
*election

HSM3

2008-11-01T11:50:00.000-07:00

We went last weekend to see High School Musical 3: Senior Year. Elyse and I LOVED it. My Mom thought it was sweet, My sister Meghan said she will never get those 2 hours back in her life. And Ally, well Ally is Ally and was all about the popcorn and stealing sips or gulps of soda.

But I am a sucker for these movies. Yes, I admit I cried in the beginning, middle and end. We now have the Soundtrack and all three of us girls sing out every word of every song! Even Cooper moves to the beat in his carseat!

Cannot wait until it comes out on DVD...Jason said he can totally wait forever!...lol....

Just another Manic Monday....

2008-10-20T16:33:00.000-07:00

Low down of the week...Only because I like to make lists!

* Jason left today for the week.
*Kids have already started crazy week! Knowing Dad is out of town and I have so much to do they just have to be crazy right!?
*Tuesday I have a craft fair at my Mom's work. I am going insane right now making sure I have everything ready to go. Plus I need to finish my donation gift for the charity raffle. I am so nervous! At least my Mom will be close by to keep me company!
*Wednesday we have school and I have Scrapbook club at my house in the evening. So Tuesday I will be creating the pages and Wednesday I will be preping and cleaning the house!
*Thursday...NOTHING! But I would like to start on cleaning out the playroom to rearrange the rooms!
*Friday I work in the preschool. Jason is hopefully coming home!
*Saturday our new houseguest may be arriving...don't ask. I need to get through the week before I comprend the fact I will have someone living with us again.

Lets just say come this weekend Mama will be needing a drink or 5!

Whiney Wednesday!

2008-10-15T18:00:00.001-07:00

So much for blogging daily...Saturday Ally came from my Moms after being there only a few hours. (Elyse and Ally spend almost every Saturday night with her and my sis) Ally had gotten sick in the mall parking lot! And being the sweet girl she can be (sometimes!) she told her autie Meghan That she was really sorry she did not want to be sick it just happened! They took her back to my Moms and she got sick again. So I picked her up. On my way home Jason calls to tell me Cooper was sick. I get home put them both to bed and they slept all night long. Ally woke up, had some toast and got sick again. We spent all day on the couch as I had gotten a cold. By Monday everyone was feeling better. I did have the cold still but not as bad.

Monday night I had my Stamp A Stack. I came home around 10:30pm. Went to bed and woke up to the flu at 12:30pm. Shortly after Jason woke up with the flu. (trying not to be graphic here!)

Tuesday, I spent as much time as I could on the couch. But really with three children who know you do not feel good have no choice but to be loud, demanding, and have to fight with eachother all day long! It was a rough day. I had a fever, headache, sore all over and still had this annoying cold. Jason HAD to go to work. Which if you ask me was more relaxing than being home!...lol...

Today Jason got up and offered to take Elyse to school for me! And pick her up! YAY! He has no idea what he has gotten himself into with this one! I may have him do this at least once a week, especially with the rain coming! Once I got up and showered and picked up the messy house I felt a bit better. Thankfully it did not last too long!

Meal Plan out the window.....Next week Jason is out of town so most likely no meal plan for dinner! But we will see.

Lets call today Whiney Wednesday!

Meal Plan Monday will be tomorrow! ugh!

2008-10-13T14:34:00.001-07:00

Monday again!? The weeks are flying by and its the middle of October! I have started my meal plan but its not finished. Hopefully I can get to that tomorrow.

Today we had the preschool field trip to the pumpkin patch. I took TONS of pictures! But it was on the school camera for the scrapbooks! So maybe when I get the flash drive this week from the teacher I will post some pictures of Elyse!

Tonight I have round 3 of the Stamp a stack. Tomorrow starts work on the boutique I am doing that is next Tuesday! Plus Scrapbook club next week! And to top it off Jason leaves on Monday for Utah. He will be gone for at least a week with work.

And 4 out of 5 of us are sick. Yes, I am one of them. Good times.

Windy Day full of Crazy!!

2008-10-09T12:03:00.000-07:00

It is so windy today! And when its windy the kiddos get crazy! What a day its been and its only noon! I guess it does not help that I was trying to get a million other things done while also entertaining crazy children! Patience is blowing away with the wind! Thankfully Ally and Cooper are taking a nap and Elyse is quietly watching Pinky Dinky Doo!

Tomorrow is the Stamp A Stack and getting everything done is so stressful! I need to make more things for the sample gallery but my mind is drawing a big blank! I have done a few things but its just not enough! Guess tonight will be another late night!

I had a request for my Smashed Ranch Potatoes! Thank you!

Now I tend to not measure when it comes to my potatoes. Well I hardly measure anything really! But when it comes to potatoes it all goes by taste! And once you see what is in the potatoes you may just laugh! Because its nothing special but its oh so yummy!

Potatoes (I like the skins on, washed really well)
Butter
Sour Cream
Milk
Dry Ranch Dressing - I buy the dry mix by the jar at Sam's not the packet. So I just sprinkle it in until I get the taste I like. However, I have used the packet before and it just took one.

Boil Potatoes, drain.
Smash so there are still small chunks of potatoes.
Add butter, sour cream, splash or two of milk
Ranch dressing mix

Smash up together, serve and enjoy!!
Sometimes I add cheddar cheese, but then the calories really add up!

Holiday Stamp A Stack!

2008-10-08T10:25:00.000-07:00

This week has been a busy one! We are doing the annual Stampin' Up! Stamp A Stack this weekend. We have designed 10 diffrent Christmas cards for the ladies to make. We have 4 sessions which is 60 ladies doing 10 cards each! Its going to be a busy weekend! But it is so much fun! This is my first helping create and be in on with the action. I just love it! I have been cutting and making packets for each card. Its actually a nice way to unwind at the end of the day!

Plus getting ready for the actual cards eveyone is making I am working on items for our sample gallery...Cards, frames, boxes, gift ideas, home decore! Makes my head spin over how much I am doing! But its wonderful and I am so happy to be able to do creative things this month!

Now if I could just get over doing Christmas stuff in the middle of October I will be good to go!...LOL....

I am not a ball....

2008-10-07T09:11:00.000-07:00

The kids and I went shopping with my Mom and two of my sisters on Sunday. My sister Meghan had gotten Ally a pair of sneakers. (yay no more crocs!) and she adores them. You can tell she fells really good about herself when she wears them!

Anyways, we were in line at Old Navy and this lady says to her Grandson who is in a stroller behind us. "Look there is a ball" My Miss Ally replies in her ever present 16 year old attitude..."I am Ally, NOT A BALL!" the lady looked confused for a second and then said "Well of course you are not a ball, you are for sure Ally." Ally smiled and turned around satisfied.

Meal Plan Monday 10/6

2008-10-06T09:48:00.000-07:00

This week I am working on "feeding" my freezer. So almost everything I am making will be a double batch. This includes meals for breakfast, snack and dinner.Breakfast and Lunch are pretty basic. Those meals are a time I can make something quick that even my picky eaters will eat!

Breakfast:All are served with Fruit
Waffles
Eggs, toast
Oatmeal
Cereal Bars and Fruit (for school rush days!)

Lunch: All are served with Fruit
Turkey Toast (just a turkey sandwich on toast!)
Turkey and Cheese Roll Ups
"Bento" style lunches.1/2 sandwich, cheese, fruit, yogurt, crackers. All little portions in a tray or box with many sections. The kids LOVE this!
Quesadillas

Snacks:
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins
Zucchini Bread
Banana Muffins
Carrots and Ranch

Dinners:

Cobb Salad
with grilled steak

Chicken and black bean enchiladas with Salsa Verde
Green Salad

Homemade Pizza
BLT pizza for Mama and Daddy
Pepperoni and Cheese for the kiddos
Salad

To Die For Pot Roast
Carrots and Potatoes
Salad

Grilled Chicken Pitas
Tomato, Cucumber and Onion Salad
Parm and herb Orzo

Meatloaf
Smashed ranch potaotes
Broccoli

Homemade Spaghetti Sauce with meatballs
Salad
Homemade bread

Starting something new.....

2008-10-05T18:18:00.000-07:00

So its been a while! I really do love to blog but there just does not seem to be enough hours in the day for it! However, since its the start of October and a new season I am going to try something new! Each day I will blog about a certain topic. If you are an avid reader of blogs you see daily posts like Meal Plan Monday, Talk about it Tuesday....I am going to try it out! Wish me luck!...LOL..

Reason # 54

2008-09-07T13:30:00.000-07:00

Well, last night Devin left his glasses outside. And well, the dog thought they would make a good snack. Twisted the frame and ate the plastic around the ear. And to top it off...ate both lens. Yep, thats right. They were plastic and the dog finished them off.

Thankfully Devin can see without them. However, its going to make a long trip across the country a whole lot longer...

ERRRRR!!!! Why did we get this dog again?

Saying Goodbye

2008-09-05T16:36:00.000-07:00

So its the weekend once again...However, this is one weekend I do not want to come. Our very dear and wonderful friend Devin leaves on Monday. This weekend seemed like it would never happen. I kept hoping he would change his mind and want to stay here in California. My heart is heavy and I know so are the girls. I have noticed over the past couple days they just want to be next to Devin. To have him play with them or cuddle next to him on the couch. It just breaks my heart that we will have to say good bye on Monday. I know he is excited and the main reason he is going back home is to be with his parents and family. But its still so hard.

We get to watch one last WV football game with him and watch UFC Saturday night.We will have a good time and will enjoy him being part of our family one more weekend.

So, be prepared for another sad post on Monday. Hopefully I can talk him into leaving after we are done with school. I am working and nobody wants a sad Elyse and Mama at preschool.

Recap....

2008-09-03T14:52:00.000-07:00

Last night I taped Big Brother and turned on 90210. Much to the joy of Jason and Devin!...LOL...I had to tell them to shut up many times because of their comments. Some a little nasty! Ugh Boys!

Ok, so it was not horrible. But it should not have the name 90210.

I had to laugh about Nat and the "new" peach pit and the pit.

Andrea's daughter in the beginning news cast

Erin aka "silver" is Kelly and David's sister. She is almost a main character. Wonder if my hottie David will make an apperance.

of course Kelly and Brenda. What is up with Kelly's son. Who is the Daddy? Brandon? But he looks like Steve!...LOL...

Should be interesting. But then again I love all those shows, OC, Gossip Girl, Life of an American Teenager....You would think I want to be in high school again!...LOL...I don't for the record!

What did you think?

*****

Tonight I will be watching the RNC. (recording Project Runway!) My blood is a boiling right now! Yes, back into the politcal scene! CANNOT HELP MYSELF!!!! Care to share on that one? But that might get sticky....

2008-09-01T14:54:00.000-07:00

Ok, I know its been weeks since I posted! I know you are all wondering what craziness of my life I have to share...(yes, that is the only reason you log on to this blog!...LOL...) but instead I am going to share a little about my thoughts on the "NEW" 90210.

Yes, I admit that I watched the very first episode of Beverly Hills 90210. Yes, as the pilot. Yes, its different than the rest of the show. Yes, my Mom let me watched it even though I was not in high school. Yes, I watched EVRY.SINGLE.EPISODE. Yes, I can recite lines and tell you what songs played on certain episodes.

I am already thinking I am going to hate the new show. However, this is coming from the Mama that was in LOVE with the O.C. and cried almost every episode and especially on the last episode ever.

Yes, its already recorded on my DVR. Though I am not missing boring, stupid (I cancelled Showtime bb afterdark) BB10 for it. I will watch it.

This post comes also on the fact that I get a few hours to watch the Senior year of the original 90210. Prom, Donna Martin Graduates, Graduation. signing in the Peach Pit and the Hollywood sign...Gotta love it. Everytime I turn it on it brings me back.

And I will share that when Jason and I first started dating I had to watch 90210. He mentioned that he was a fan. I was in love. You would never think Jason would be a 90210 fan. To prove it he knew charaters, storylines and yes music. It was love! So I am going to bribe him to watch the new one with me on Tuesday. I will post my thoughts on the new show next week....

Come on! Tell me your favorite Beverly Hills 90210 episode!

August....

2008-08-16T21:41:00.000-07:00

Oh my goodness! Its been way too long! Hopefully once school starts I will blog more than once a month!...hee hee!!!

Summer is almost over...School starts the 25th. My baby girl will be gone 3 days a week 9-12! Next year is kindy...I could really cry right now. Along with just the though of her being gone 5 days a week I need to worry about what school she will attend. Our "home" school is the worst in the district! I had NO idea! I had NO idea that this was her home school. You would think the school within walking distant was our home school. Nope, its a special school you need to do open enrollment for. But its one of the best in the district. Please pray we get in. Ugh! I am the crazy Mom stressing a year before...But in my defense I only want the best for my Children so that makes me a little less crazy...right!?

Right now I am working on our Fall schedule. Life is about to get crazy this fall and winter. Real life insanity. I will update more when I know more. Don't want to jinx anything.... As for the Fall schedule I need to get in when I have to work in the preschool, keeping the house clean, bills paid, breakfast, lunch and dinner cooked and finding time to build my Stampin' Up! business!(If you want to buy something or see my website just email me!...HINT HINT HINT!!!)

Sorry no recent pictures of the kiddos...I NEED A NEW CAMERA!!! If you would like to buy me a D40 I would be beyond thrilled!...LOL.....Some day it will happen! I just hate my camera right now!

Life is crazy and this post is totally random! Jason went to Squaw Valley for a Blues Fest. So, I get some me time! Doing everything except what I am suppose to do!...LOL...But such is my life!

Crafty Mess....

2008-07-25T15:35:00.000-07:00

So I have been trying to stay busy and as Robin says get use to the lemons! We have a lot of life changing stuff going on. Not sure how ready I am to put it out in the blogging world yet...But I am super stressed and out of sorts. Thankfully my kiddos love to stay home and play with me and their toys!

I have my Stampin' Up! Scrapbook club tomorrow and a workshop on Tuesday. So it has really kept my mind off of everything. Today I have been creating and cutting paper. Cooper is not understanding that he is home to help me clean up my mess. He keeps making more of a mess!!...LOL...Love my little monkey man!

I wonder if I can hire someone just to clean up after my crafty-ness? That would really kill Jason!...LMAO!!!

Thankgoodness its Friday.....Ugh!!!

Ugh!!!

2008-07-17T14:35:00.000-07:00

This saying has been in my head the last few weekes, "When life gives you lemons make lemonade" How come it is so hard to do? And to have a smile on your face? Nothing seems to be going right lately. Life is throwing us some serious curve balls. I have been trying to make the best of it but its hard to do. I just want to sleep until its ALL over with!!!

Or let me travel to a sunny (but not too hot) beachy area and relax away from all the problems and stress. Kids and Jason can visit....but not stay too long!

Coopers First Hair Cut!!!!

2008-06-23T20:37:00.000-07:00

This is what you do on your 7th year wedding anniversary when you have three children! Cooper got a haircut! I cried! My little man is no longer a baby! Makes me so very very sad! I miss the baby stage!!

Before:

During: (posed pic, I actually held Coop during the hair cut!)

After: (please do not look at my shiny face! Not thinking pics would be taken today!)

7 years ago we tied the knot....

2008-06-23T12:46:00.000-07:00

7 years ago we got married.... Life sure has changed. We have had our ups and downs, laughs and crys and we are still learning the ropes every single day. Trying to smile along with it all. I never imagined we would have three children on our 7th wedding anniversary. But these three beautiful children is what makes us a family. We are totally blessed.

Since we have no plans today as a present to myself I am making all three children take a nap AT THE SAME TIME! So far so good. But I know it will not last. Gotta make the best of it while I can!!!

Sick little Cooper

2008-06-20T10:19:00.000-07:00

What a week! I have never been so happy for Friday in my life! Tuesday night Cooper threw up his bottle of milk around 4:15pm. Elyse threw herself on the floor trying to hold back her own puke. (not that she was sick mind you. She is a serious sympathy puker!) Cooper did not stop puking until late last night. He spent all of Wednesday and Thursday laying on me....throwing up and sleeping. He never sits still any more so I sucked it all in and loved it. Not the sick part, the part of really wanting just his Mama. Really made me miss having little babies! Coop woke up this morning and was able to keep down some milk and toast so that is a bonus.

The girls just left for the Grandparents and I am hoping to work on some hairbows, scrapbook pages and do an order for Stampin's Up! We just got some new vinyl rub ons and I cannot wait to put some up on my walls!

Happy Weekend!
Camp Rock on Disney airs tonight! I am so excited! But promised Elyse I would wait until tomorrow to watch it with her! I love having a 4 year old that loves this stuff as much as I do! Now I am not such a dork and can say I am doing it for my daughter!...LOL....

This week in a nutshell.....

2008-06-14T19:48:00.000-07:00

Time for a re-cap of us...

*Jason was out of town all last week. I did not miss him. (how horrible is that!) But the kids sure did.

*We got the kiddos pictures taken on Wednesday. They turned out cute. Well as cute as you can get with 3 children wanting to do anything but smile for a camera.

*I have been working my ass off making hair bows. I am totally addicted and cannot stop! I just purchased a bunch of ribbon that will arrive next week. I am in withdrawls at the moment!

*Jason is out camping this weekend with the boys. Happy Fathers Day!

*I went out shopping with the kiddos, mom and sis Meg today. We had a good time and spent some money!! And actually non of it was for the kids! YAY me!

*The retired list for Stampin up comes out tonight at Midnight. I am staying up until then. I cannot sleep until I know.

* I have been horribly anxious all week long. Something has to give.

* I am very sadden that Tim Russert died. It made me cry. My heart goes out to his family and friends.

*Its hot and I don't like it.

*The cost of gas is killing me. And the fact that I have some people in my family that it does not seem to phase and they always want me to drive all around town all of the freaking time makes me irrate!

Yeah, I think that is about it. So very boring!!! So very complain-y I know!

Korkers!!!

2008-06-10T20:44:00.000-07:00

Here are the Korker Bows I made today! I am taking the kids to get their pictures taken tomorrow and of course we needed matching bows for the 2 outfits! I was so nervous to make Korkers. But they are seriously so easy! Easier than the other bows! I cannot wait to order more ribbon and clips and get to Korkin'!...LOL....

***Sorry about the crappy picture! Some day soon I will have a D40 and will be a rockin photog!!!

Our family as Rocks.....

2008-06-05T20:34:00.000-07:00

Here is our family as Rocks.....Daddy, Mama, Elyse, Ally and Cooper.

We hang out in the garden to watch our veggies grow!

We really are a family.....

2008-06-04T16:49:00.000-07:00

Finally here is the family picture...This is the first picture we have of all 5 of us. Yes, there is a picture taken the day after I came home from the hospital with Cooper on Elyse's 3rd birthday...However, we never mention that one!

I wish it was clearer to see I stamped on the kids shirts and on the back has their name.

Kelly, here are the bows I was talking about! I made the hair bows and bows for their shirts. Oh and this is the famous apron I made that week when I should of been doing other things!...

This picture has been printed framed and I am looking for a place to put it. The only problem with the picture according to Elyse is that Daddy has his sunglasses on. And I wish I would of remembered to put on cuter shoes! But hey cannot ask for too much when you are trying to get a picture of 5 very different people!

Remind me why.....

2008-06-04T16:37:00.002-07:00

Why do I ever think taking 3 children out to the craft store is a good idea? WHY!!!!!????? It started off great...then 126 dollars later of things I do not need and too much fabric that I am not in love with we leave. I am pissed, the kids are upset at me because I would not let them run around and chase Cooper. Elyse is mad I did not get every.single.craft. item she HAS to have. It is a mess. And did I mention Cooper now mimics everything the girls do!? So he screamed the ENTIRE time for no reason.

And I wonder why people look at me like I am crazy for having 3.

Little Girls.....hair styles and bows OH MY!!!

2008-06-03T15:04:00.000-07:00

Now I don't know why I never came up with the idea to do more creative things with Elyse's hair. I just do the basic pony, pig tails and such. My friend Kelly has opened the door for more exciting and cute hairstyles for my little girls! She found a great blog with wonderful ideas!!! Elyse's hair is a great length. Ally's is a little short but I have done some cute stuff with her! This is today's hair style for Elyse. It was perfect before she leaned her head on the couch...but hey what can you do!?...LOL...I did not make these bows. But I have a bunch that I have made and in fact cannot stop making! I love having girls and I will continue to dress them up and do there hair with bows until they fight me off! Literally fight me off!...LMAO!!!!

Look forward to more of me...doing what I love

2008-05-26T19:45:00.000-07:00

“Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might…” Ecc. 9:10

This totally inspires me.
First of all.....
I am a Mother
I am a Wife
I am a Homekeeper

And I am a crafter. I am inspired by this scripture to work on my craft to be better at what I do. So look forward some classes and projects I am working on!

YAY ME!!!!

Elyse is 4!!

2008-05-14T07:51:00.000-07:00

Today Miss Elyse is 4.The last four years have been amazing and wonderful. I could not ask for anything more. The past four years have gone by so fast. Elyse holds a special place in my heart because she made me a Mother. She gave me the gift I always wanted. She is very smart and happy. Outspoken and a drama queen. She is bossy and yet takes wonderful care of her sister and brother. She makes me laugh everyday. I am so blessed she is mine!

Today we are going to the park with some friends. Later tonight the Grandparents are coming over for dinner! Tomorrow is her birthday at school. We will bring snack and we are handing out flower seed packets to all of her schoolmates!

Happy Birthday Little Lady!

The Boy Is 1!!!

2008-05-12T16:05:00.000-07:00

It was one year ago today that Cooper aka "The Boy" arrived. It was a crazy labor and delivery. I have finally started to make peace with it. I use to think of it constantly and have nightmares about it. It just was not what I have imagined my labor to be like for the third time.Here is the blog post about it: http://onehappymama.blogspot.com/2007/05/hes-here.html (I cannot make a link for some reason!)

However, the crazy way he came into the world has made been made up for with the sweetest, cutest, greatest little boy! He is so easy going and lovable. He melted my heart the first time I laid eyes on him. He a pure joy. The bond of Mama and Son is unbreakable. Feels like he has always been apart of our family. A perfect fit! I adore him more and more each day.

I have survived the first year of 3 under 3. I can lie and say it was perfect. But you all know that it had its ups and downs. I wanted to runaway, I wanted to hide most days! But we made it. Happy and Healthy. I am sad he is 1 today, I want my baby back. No I am not pregnant again! Nor am I trying to get pregnant again!...LOL...I just look at pictures and remember how tiny he was in my arms and it makes me long for those days again. However, I would not give up these days of laughing and pretending to be a monster to scare his sisters. We are going to have many more great memories!!

For two days my children are 1, 2, and 3 years old!...LOL...

(I have pictures from the party, well my BIL does so I will post those when I get them tomorrow!!!)

Busy Busy

2008-05-07T13:43:00.000-07:00

Well its Wednesday....3 days til party day! Slowly I am getting everything done. Jason left today until Friday. Which means 2 nights free! The kiddos usually go to bed around 7 so I will have plenty of time to get it all done. Right? I finished the apron but I am not happy how it turned out. So tonight in between finishing swap cards, making tutu's and birthday stuff I will make another one! I love aprons!

Tomorrow night I will bake the cakes, work on the favors, finish the tutu's, make the kids shirts for the party and finish the hair bows for the girls!

We all woke up today with stuffy noses. I thought it was allergies until Ally started to cough, the runny nose was not clear anymore and is now napping for over 2 hours. Not her style! Please pray we do not all get it! We had to cancel our playdate! Ugh! I hate that this happens to us all the time!

Off to work on some things while 2 babies are sleeping! I should be doing housework but hey if Jason is gone why clean up!?

I am crazy!

2008-05-06T14:44:00.000-07:00

I have a three page list of things to do...Mostly by Saturday. And yet today I am making an apron. Totally not on the list to do!

Crazy...I am going crazy!

Why did I pick this?!

2008-05-04T11:20:00.000-07:00

Why do I feel I always have to be perfect at everything? When I know I am setting myself up to fail. With three children, a husband and a home to take care of I really have little time to be perfect. I have over scheduled myself this month. Totally and Completely end of story. I am sick to my stomach all the time worried how I am going to get it all in. Jason is out of town next week too! I am so booked with things to do in May and yet I keep saying yes to things and as life is things come up that I have to do.

Jason asked me today when I was near tears about all that is on my list to do...When you were picking out who you would be why did you pick perfectionist? Why not Butterfly collector or Laid back? All I could do was laugh! I have no idea why I am like this. And like everyone knows I am by NO MEANS perfect! I am just a nutcase I guess!

Well better stop blogging and start on my list to do while Jason is gone and I have 3 children demanding a million different things. None of course are on my list.....

Good Times....

2008-04-28T12:55:00.001-07:00

What a weekend! Saturday was SO much fun! Oh my goodness! It was crazy, wild and full of good memories! I am paying the price for it now though! I am so sore from all the dancing! I really want to do it again! We had a VIP section outside with food and drinks. The weather was just perfect for it! It was a great way to celebrate turing 30! I did not take a single picture! But everyone else took tons! When I get them I will see if there are any I can share!...LOL...

Today I mailed out the birthday invites! FINALLY!...LOL...Now I have to work on favors and decorations for the party. Less than 2 weeks away!

Not much else going on. I need to clean the house and try to remain some what sane! I finally put all three down for a nap because all they were doing was screaming and fighting! I should start on my housework while I have the time...right!?

A Mess....

2008-04-25T14:58:00.000-07:00

My craft table (aka the dining table) coffee table and kitchen are a distaster because I am trying to figure out the best birthday invites to make for my kiddos! UGH! 5 hours and many different cards I cannot make one I love! I seriously need to get them out! The party is May 10th! I am discouraged and I REALLY DO NOT want to clean up my mess!!!

On an happier note tomorrow night is "Party Bus" Night! Jason and our good friend Devin arranged for a group of us to go out for my 30th birthday! The bus is picking us up and then we are going to Centercourt for appetizers and drinks. Then back to our house! Going to be a good time! Jason arranged for Cooper to spend the night with his parents and the girls will be with my Mom and Sisters. Funny how they are acting like I turned 21 not 30!

I need a parenting Class.....

2008-04-21T12:41:00.000-07:00

Lately I have been feeling like a less than stellar Mom.

Today Ally was writing on herself (again!) and I took the pen and wrote no on her leg! (yes this is proof I AM a bad Mom!...LOL...) I took the pen away and said "I am a bad Mom."

Elyse replied...in a sing song voice "You are not a bad Mommy you are a very Good Mean Mommy"

Nice.
Is there a parenting class I can take!?

Remember...

2008-04-18T11:08:00.000-07:00

Normal day, let me be aware of the treasure you are.
Let me learn from you, love you, bless you before you depart.
Let me not pass you by in the quest
of some rare and perfect tomorrow.
-Mary Jean Irion

At 30 I am losing my mind!

2008-04-15T10:56:00.000-07:00

I am in fact not curled up in the fetal postition in the kitchen crying, eating chocolate and drinking diet coke spiked with rum. In fact I have not shed one tear yet. I am feeling pretty good.

I am however, losing my mind. I spent an hour looking for my car key. I was starting to panic as I have to go pick Elyse up from school soon. I called Jason and he could tell in my voice I was going to break. He tells me he is borrowing someones car to come home...

I start to dump out my purse for the millionth time to find the car key sitting UNDER my purse!

If this is what happens when you turn 30 I am in for an adventure!

One more day of my 20's.....

2008-04-14T08:53:00.000-07:00

As most everyone knows I am having a hard time turning 30 tomorrow. Yesterday was horrible, I was weepy and moody. Maybe it had to do with the fact that the weekend kinda sucked. Nothing bad really, but Jason was gone a lot and it got to me. The kids would not stop fighting or screaming. I was being pulled in a million directions. Which I suppose is a normal day in the life for me. For some reason yesterday it really brought me down.

The more I thought about it, the more I was not upset about actually BEING 30. I am upset because I don't have it more "together" for being 30. Hard to explain and really not anything to cry about. Which makes me more upset. I know I will never be a perfect Mom, wife, homekeeper, daughter, sister, friend. Though I try very hard it just never seems to be enough for me. I guess I always thought by the time I was 30 something would click and I would have it all figured out. I do have 14 more hours and maybe it will click in then!...LOL.....

I hate feeling like this. Nobody really understands (because I am weird!) I get from everyone that I should just be thankful for what I have at 30. Yes, I get that I am very blessed and I count my blessings daily. I have a wonderful husband and 3 beautiful children that I get to stay home with. I DO have everything I always wanted in life. I need to focus on that and stop feeling sorry for myself. I know. Give me a week and I should be living the life of a 30 year old and proud of it! Right!?

Off to enjoy my last day of being 29 doing laundry, spring cleaning the living room and tending to my little monsters!

Viva Las Vegas!!

2008-04-04T10:23:00.000-07:00

Tonights the night! In 12 hours I will be in the airplane ready to touch down and meet up with my girlfriends!

I still have a ton of packing to do! Plus I need to go to the bank and some other errands!

I am nervous because its the first time I have traveled alone! Oh my! When Elyse left today for Grandma and Grandpa's she could care less I was leaving. Which is good because she was so upset all week!

Here is to a fun weekend of girl time! And pray that Jason and the kiddos do just fine without me here!...LOL...

Hope the week flys by fast.....

2008-03-31T13:33:00.000-07:00

4.5 days til Vegas!

I totally need it.....

Making up for not posting much.....

2008-03-28T16:38:00.000-07:00

Just one of those weeks that I do not want to be an adult. Do not want to make life decisions. We have a lot of crap going on. Everything is fine. Just life.

I have not been online much this week. Doing some spring cleaning, my goodness! All bedrooms are clean. I finally let go of my girl clothes. 5 bags of "unwanted" clothes, 1 huge box and bag of "cute enough to give away to friends" and well, 2 rubbermaid tubs of clothes I just cannot let go of! I am so happy I finally finished this project. I started a while ago but then stopped because it was too much for me. I know if we ever have another baby I will by all new anyways. Its just hard to let go of these little girl outfits! Jason was on me again yesterday about getting pregnant again. WTH!? This is the first time he is pushing me and I am resisting. Its ALWAYS the other way around. I told him that we will talk in January. Though I am positive I will not be ready then. Its hard to have 3 children so close together. My sanity or bank account cannot take another baby! Hoping this will stop the talk for a while. Thankgoodness for the IUD!...LOL....

This weekend we have nothing planned! Well, turkey season starts so Jason might be going out in the am. Glad we have a free weekend. Last weekend so so busy with Egg hunts at the park, Hair appts, and dinner dates. Plus Easter up at my Uncles. Busy Bees!

Though I am feeling overwhelmed and crazed....Next Friday at this time I will be getting ready to go to LAS VEGAS!!! I am beyond thrilled! Meeting some girlfriends for a weekend of FUN! Without husbands or kiddos! We are going to talk, drink, get pedicures and see a fun show! This is just what I need!!! This weekend I need to get to my sisters closets and borrow cute shirts, shoes and purses! Oh my!!!

On a creative note....I am part of a card swap and have been working on that. I have one card done, still working on the other one.

And I have been working on the birthday invites. That has been hard! Its a party for all three kiddos. So it has to be both girl and boy approved! So no pink according to Jason!...LOL Hopefully I can get that going, I have a lot to make!

Just a few weeks until I am the big 3-0 sure that is not helping my mood either!

Little Feeties

2008-03-20T12:16:00.000-07:00

My little babies are growing up too fast. On Monday Jason had to lower Coopers crib mattress. Everytime this happens I cry my eyes out. I stay in their room a little longer to watch them sleep. I say a prayer that God will just keep him little for a bit longer. I cannot believe my boy is 10 months old. Everyday he is growing and learning. Its so amazing to watch him turn into a little man. At 10 months he will no longer breast feed, he no longer wants me to hold his bottle for him, he no longer wants me to hold his spoon for him. At 10 months he is crawling around and getting into trouble, following his sisters around with a big grin on his face. At 10 months he loves for me to hold him and he loves to give me hugs. He lights up when I come in the room and puts his arms out for me.

Guess I am just having one of those weeks. I don't want my babies to grow up. I want them to stay small forever in my arms.

Happy St. Patricks Day!!!

2008-03-19T10:19:00.000-07:00

St. Patricks day is always fun around here! Granted its not the same kind of fun we had before children but it is a blast these days! Those naughty leprecauns came and turned the house upside down! Chairs on top of the entertainment center, high chair knocked over, couch cushions on the floor, just a mess in general! They left shamrocks all over the walls and floors! And turned Gunnars little white patch green!!! Elyse asked that they please do not turn the milk green (after last years misery of a gallon of milk wasted because Elyse refused green milk!) so they kept the milk white!

They did surprise the kiddos with The Bee Movie and the book Horton Hears a Who! We had fun making cookies, coloring and playing ouside!

For dinner we had Corned beef, Cabbage, Carrots and Colannon! And of course Guinness to drink after the kiddos went to bed!

Here are some pictures....Out of the 100 I took these are the only ones worth showing and they are not great!...LOL..

The funnies of potty training!!!

2008-03-12T14:17:00.000-07:00

After reading my friend Melissa's blog about potty training her son. I HAD to share this story!

We are working with Ally being potty trained. She has shown some intrest so we have been going with it. Now she does not really go in the potty but she talks about it ALL the time! Well, last week she would not let me put her diaper on. She was wearing a dress and I guess wanted to be FREE!...LOL....

Jason and I had stepped out back while we where grilling and Ally comes running to the door. She is saying Potty and Elyse says she wants some yo-go's but there is water in the bowl. Well Jason takes Ally to the potty (does not go) and then pours the "water" out and puts yo-go's for Elyse in it. He comes back out to tell me what happened. I look at him and said we did not have any water out for the girls to pour into the bowl....Then it hit me! IT WAS ALLY'S POTTY!!

Jason goes running back inside to get Elyse new yo-go's and force Ally to put a diaper on! That girl is going to drive me to the nut house!!!

I have been tagged....YAY!!!

2008-03-03T21:21:00.000-08:00

So, I had a feeling as I was reading my dear friend Robin's blog that I might be next! ;) So here it is...Check the letter T to see who I have tagged...LOL....Now you gotta read

Here goes: Everything you wanted to know about me!

A- Attached or single: Married, so I guess I am attached (LOL)

B- Best Friend: Jason

C-Cake or Pie: Cake

D- Day of Choice: Friday. Because I can be an adult that night and drink! Girls are at the Grandparents!

E- Essential Item: Wipes...3 kids under 3. Enough said.

F- Favorite Color: Pink

G- Gummi Bears or Worms: Worms....

H- Hometown: Sacramento, CA

I- Indulgence(s): Good beer and Stamp supplies!

J- January or July: July, love the summer!

K-Kids: Elyse 3, Ally 2, Cooper (the boy) 9 months

L-Life is incomplete without: My Children

M- Marriage Date: June 23, 2001. So many of my friends got married that year yet we did not know it! Thankfully we have re connected! My life is so much better because of it! Oh wait this is about my marriage! I cannot believe its been 7 years! It seems he has always been in my life!

N- Number of Siblings: 3 sisters...oh my!

O- Oranges or Apples: Apples

P- Phobias or Fears: Something happening to my kiddos or Jason. And I know its weird, but not being able to have more children. But thats a long convo to have on why I feel that way! No I don't want more...but I do!

Q- Quote(s): "Life is what you make it, so lets make it rock" Hannah Montana (yes, that is what we listen too!Radio is no good for a 3 year old that repeats everything...she knows the LOW LOW LOW song by heart after listening to it twice!)

R- Reason To Smile: My husband and children. As much as I bitch life would not be life without them.

S- Season: Summer

T- Tag Six: It's your turn Ali and Kelly ;) I am bold and picking 2!

U- Unknown Fact About Me: I am scared shitless about Jason leaving for Iraq. But I try not to show it! Especially to him.

V- Vegetarian or Oppressor of Animal: LOL I am totally on an Anti-Meat kick right now! Jason is going crazy! So he has been inviting friends over for dinner because he knows I will not cook all veggies for them!...LMAO!

W- Worst Habit: I over think everything! And I am really controlling!

X- X-Rays or Ultrasounds: Ultrasounds rock my socks!

Y- Your Favorite Food: Girl Scout Cookies this week!

Z: Zodiac: Aries

Ally is 2!!!

2008-03-03T10:21:00.000-08:00

Well our little Miss Ally turned 2 yesterday! We went to the Train Museum (Elyse said it was too windy for the zoo!...LOL...) Then we went to eat at Pronto for lunch! Came home for naps and had the Grandparents, Aunties and Uncles over for Dinner and Cupcakes! We had a great time!

I cannot believe she is 2! However, at the same time it seems like she has been two forever! Having Cooper when she was 14 months old has made her grow up faster than I am ready! But believe you me, she still acts like a 2 year old! Oh my!

I got some pictures but now my camera batteries died (again!) so I will post them later!

Sadness....

2008-02-28T17:33:00.000-08:00

I have been having a hard time these last few days. My very dear friend since High School has suffered a miscarriage after years of trying to have another baby. I am just so sad. I have been crying for the last few days. I have been praying and thinking the last few days. It just is not fair. I know God has a plan. I believe that and live that. But it is so hard to live that at times like this.

I wish I lived closer to her.
I wish I could make it better.
I wish I could have peace with this so I can help her better.

She has helped me be a better Mama. She has helped me see that I am not alone in how I feel. She has helped me feel at peace when I am to the point I want to break. She has pumped me up when I am down about Jason leaving for a year. There is so much she has brought to my life and helped me with.

I wish I could do the same for her. I wish I would feel better after I write to her. I wish I could call her, but I cannot contain my sadness.

I am sure you are reading this my dear friend. I just want you to know that I love you! And all I want to do is book a flight to Texas for the weekend!

A long one because its been a while.........

2008-02-25T22:41:00.000-08:00

Oh what a week! Last week Elyse had off from school. And we were sick sick sick! Even the Grandparents got sick! Always happens that way right!?

So school starts again tomorrow and Elyse and I could not be happier! All week was about Ms. Lily and what Ms. Lily was doing! All I know is that its going to be a long summer! Thankfully we will be seeing Ms. Lily for the next oh I don't know...4 years! Good thing her and I get along great! I love her!

I have been pretty darn crafty! Staying up til 1am working on projects! I had a workshop this past weekend. It went pretty good! I love creating things for people to make. Bonus is when they love them as much as I do!

A few big things....

Today Jason surprised me with a 3 stone diamond ring! Yes ladies! You heard that right! All to ease the blow of being 30! Or as I said, "thank you for the 29 years and 10 1/2 month birthday ring!" All kidding of course! He is wonderful! Even if I want to push him through the wall most days! He is amazing and I am so happy to call him mine! He had the ring made and thought it would take longer, which is why I got it early! He cannot keep a surprise! I tried taking a picture but it did not come out pretty! Lets just say its A LOT bigger than my engagement ring!...LOL...I am happy! Funny story, when we showed Elyse she took off my engagement ring, put it on her finger and said "Mommy, you don't need this anymore." I told her to give it back because ladies can never have enough diamonds!

Oh! And if I ever get my ass into gear and book my ticket I am going to Vegas the first weekend in April for a girls trip! I am meeting up with my very good friends that all have babies the same age as Elyse! (yes, I know they are going to be 4, but they are still our babies!) I am so excited!

Ok, gotta get to bed! Big Brother was crazy last night! They are not rumors you heard. Everyone was making out and getting naked! Yikes crazy cast!!!

Fun!

2008-02-17T15:41:00.000-08:00

I am back! I had the most wonderful time learning neat things that I cannot wait to buy and use! I am really wanting to go to Convention in July for 4 solid days of stamping, creating and having fun with others that share my passion!

Jason did good. Or so he says. The girls did have McDonalds twice! Something this Mama NEVER lets happen even once! I am going to have to feed them nothing but veggies for the next two weeks!...LOL...

I am sick. Yep I got the cold my lovely children had. I want a nap.....

A lil stampin getaway!!

2008-02-15T10:32:00.000-08:00

Tonight I am heading to Oakland for the night. Tomorrow is Stampin' Up! Regionals. And instead of waking up at 5am to get there we thought it would be fun to stay tonight! We will have fun stamping the night away!

Bonus...No children.

Better Bonus...Jason will be home with ALL three children!..LMAO! Good luck with that!

Valentine Goodies!

2008-02-13T14:13:00.000-08:00

Since I know I will not have time to post these tomorrow...Here are the Valentines I made for Elyse to give to her Friends at preschool! The picture is blurry but they are really cute, If I do say so myself!...LOL....

Here is the gift I am thinking of giving Elyse's teacher. Its filled with the same goodies for her friends. But enough for Ms. Lily's family!

I whipped them out this morning and afternoon! Going to Washington really put me behind! My house is a mess the kids are going insane but I got my craft stuff done!...LOL...

The next three nights will be putting together my swap cards for regionals on Saturday!

All is well with Big Brother Back on TV!

2008-02-12T22:25:00.000-08:00

Just got done watching the first episode of Big Brother 9! Its going to be GOOD! I started to watch After Dark on Showtime(yes I ordered show time today just for that!) and it got even BETTER! LOVE IT! Thank goodness for DVR when Jason wanted to watch EXC! I will watch the rest tomorrow!

Some how I feel SO good knowing Big Brother is back on!

Lets chat! What do you think of Big Brother!

We are back....

2008-02-11T14:22:00.001-08:00

We got home a few hours ago. We have been up for over 38 hours! It was insane but a wonderful time! Very inspiring! I will post more about the trip and pictures later this week.

Lesson Learned...3 children on a 12 hour road trip = INSANITY!! I advise never to try it. Seriously.

Road Trip!

2008-02-07T13:24:00.000-08:00

Going to Washington for the weekend. Spur of the moment road trip! Say a prayer that I make it there sane!

Checking out dvd players tonight! I need something to keep the peace!

Live an Exceptional, Superb and Powerful Life

2008-02-06T17:02:00.000-08:00

My very good friend Melissa sent this to me on myspace. So worth posting on here!

Forty Tips for an Exceptional, Superb & Powerful Life!
These are really very powerful, Implement whenever you can.

1. Take a 10-30 minute walk every day. And while you walk, smile. It is the ultimate anti-depressant.
2. Sit in silence for at least 10 minutes each day. Buy a lock if you have to.
3. Record your late night shows and get more sleep.
4. When you wake up in the morning complete the following statement, "My purpose is to____ today."
5. Live with the 3 E's -- Energy, Enthusiasm, and Empathy.
6. Watch more movies, play more games and read more books than you did in 2007.
7. Make time to practice meditation, yoga, tai chi, and prayer. They provide us with daily fuel for our busy lives.
8. Spend more time with people over the age of 70 and under the age of 6.
9. Dream more while you are awake.
10. Eat more foods that grow on trees and plants and eat less food that is manufactured in plants.
11. Drink green tea and plenty of water. Eat blueberries, wild Alaskan salmon, broccoli, almonds & walnuts.
12. Try to make at least three people smile each day.
13. Clear your clutter from your house, your car, your desk and let new and flowing energy into your life.
14. Don't waste your precious energy on gossip, energy vampires, issues of the past, negative thoughts or things you cannot control. Instead invest your energy in the positive present moment.
15. Realize that life is a school and you are here to learn. Problems are simply part of the curriculum that appear and fade away like algebra class but the lessons you learn will last a lifetime.
16. Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and dinner like a college kid.
17. Smile and laugh more. It will keep the energy vampires away.
18. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.
19. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.
20. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.
21. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.
22. Make peace with your past so it won't screw up the present.
23. Don't compare your life to others'. You have no idea what their journey is all about.
24. Burn the candles, use the nice bed sheets, Don't save it for a special occasion. Today is special.
25. No one is in charge of your happiness except you.
26. Frame every so-called disaster with these words: "In five years, will this matter?"
27. Forgive everyone for everything.
28. What other people think of you is none of your business.
29. Time heals almost everything. Give time, time.
30. However good or bad a situation is, it will change. So stop complaining about the weather, the job, the rents etc etc
31. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends will. Stay in touch.
32. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.
33. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.
34. The best is yet to come.
35. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.
36. Do the right thing!
37. Call your family often.
38. Each night before you go to bed complete the following statements: "I am thankful for ___." Today I accomplished ____.
39. Remember that you are too blessed to be stressed.
40. Enjoy the ride. Remember that this is not Disney World and you certainly don't want a fast pass. You only have one ride through life so make the most of it and enjoy the ride.

May your troubles be less, May your blessings be more.And may nothing but happiness come through your door!

BLAH!

2008-02-06T13:43:00.000-08:00

I am giving up POLITICS for Lent.

enough said.

Super Tuesday! Time to get out and VOTE!!!

2008-02-05T13:17:00.000-08:00

Have you voted today? We will be turning in our ballots today at 3:45! Elyse is super excited!...LOL...

Tomorrow is the DAY!!!

2008-02-04T21:28:00.000-08:00

Got your ballots ready!? Tomorrow is the day!

Elyse was chanting "GO MITT GO MITT" today and I SWEAR I did not put her up to it! She just knows a good President when she hears it! Did I mention I have a super smart child!.....LMAO!!!!

Cannot wait until tomorrow! I am SO excited!

And if you are Republican and are on the fence on who to vote for email me! I can help you out!...LOL...If you already have your mind made up no need to email to debate. I trust you have made the best decision for yourself and that you have done your research! : )

Tuesdays!

2008-02-04T08:56:00.000-08:00

Big Brother 9 starts February 12th! I am so excited! I have already set my DVR to record it and Showtime afterdark!

I guess thats one GREAT thing that has come out of the writers strike! We get a winter big brother!

And this week is Super Tuesday! We are having a little get together to watch the results come in! I am sure it will be a late night! Go Out and Vote!!!! It really does matter!!

Tuesday's are turing out to be pretty cool!...LOL...

Super Politics!

2008-02-01T11:55:00.000-08:00

Its been way too long since I blogged. Really I don't have much to blog about these days! Same stuff different day!

One thing I am SUPER excited about is SUPER Tuesday! This Tuesday February 5th! Last night I turned on E! News and I thought it had been months since I had seen that show! Heck its been months since I checked out a celebrity gossip site! And I use to be obsessed with celeb gossip!...LOL...All my free time these days is spent on Politics and the Presidental Campaign! Thankfully Jason shares the same passion! Now he is no longer bored when I am watching Fox news or sending him emails about the latest news! Ha! Heck I even listen to more talk radio than regular radio!

We have our ballots filled out and ready to turn in on Tuesday February 5th! Though we do not always agree he has finally agreed with me on who the next president of the United States should and will be! : )

Sickies....

2008-01-22T11:11:00.000-08:00

Why is it whenever I have a date to get together with friends my children get sick? Today we were suppose to go to Ali's house and play while the girls went to school. Of course when we woke up today Elyse had a fever, runny nose and a horrible cough. And Ally and Cooper's runny noses had not stopped! So we had to stay home. Its enough to drive me crazy! And in true fashion of my children by 10 am everyone was running around happy as can be!

Someone please explain it to me!?

Tonight I have my scrapbook/stamp club! YAY! At least I will be able to get out of the house for a few hours tonight kid free!

Life is well...the same.

2008-01-16T20:39:00.000-08:00

Not much to blog about. Dog driving me crazy, Kids driving me insane. Life is about to change for a year. No I am not pregnant. :)

Plus I have a lot of stamping I need to do. I am a bit over extended on that. But when am I not!

Just a reminder....

2008-01-09T23:10:00.000-08:00

This week...(remember its only Wednesday)

5 socks ruined. So really 10 pairs. Thankfully I buy all of our socks in white so I can bleach them and match them to any pair we own! But still thats 5 socks gone!

3 pairs of my comfy pants have holes. Not that I wear them out, but I don't want to hang around the house in trashy pants!

2 shirts ruined. One of Elyse's and one of Mine.Holes in the arms. Not fixable, both are new from Christmas.

1 duck call chewed up. Not that this matters to me any, but Jason is all whiney about it.

1 hand that feels like it is broken because he bit me in a weird spot. Yep, MY hand. The hand that feeds and plays with him.

All because of Gunnar or as I like to call him Dum Dum (after Night at the Museum)

Did I ever mention I did not want a dog?

I like it!

2008-01-06T20:46:00.000-08:00

I read this today on a stamp blog. I need reminders like this a lot lately!

Live with intention.
Walk to the edge.
Listen hard.
Practice Wellness.
Play with abandon.
Laugh.
Choose with no regret.
Appreciate your friends.
Continue to learn.
Do what you love.
Live as if this is all there is.
~ Mary Anne Radmacher

Can I have a do over?

2008-01-05T20:46:00.001-08:00

I spend the majority of my day picking up toys, stopping fights and finding fun things to do. Adding a puppy into the mix is a million times harder. Because I have to do all three of those things FOR THE PUPPY! I want to freaking scream and cry!!!! He is into everything, wanting to play with the kids which leads to him jumping and biting and he always wants to play! AHHHHHHHH!!!!!! I really want to scream a four letter word that starts with an F! Jason went hunting today and his dog woke me up at 6am and would not stop until I got up! Now Jason is out helping his brother and I have to play with the darn puppy! When do I get my time!

If I had to live last Saturday over again I would of really put my foot down and said NO PUPPY FOR OUR FAMILY!

How Crunchy are You?

2008-01-04T19:11:00.000-08:00

Since having Elyse in 2004 I been on a quest to be the best Mom I can be. To find what works with my beliefs and what just works for our family. I read countless books and online articles. I have grilled many friends on how they came up with "their" style. Now almost 4 years later and 3 children later I know that its not that easily defined. Each child is different as is each parent. And right now each minute brings something new. I just go with what works and what at the end of the day makes me happy and content.

I have always thought the term "crunchy" was funny! I'm learning that there are various levels of crunchiness. I don't quite hit them all, but I'm a fair balance. There are some days I give in and make the boxed mac and cheese. (though it is organic, do I score some points!..LOL...) But I am working on it! I practice a lot of AP parenting however, lately that is all out the window! With my little patience and a houseful of fireballs I try just to keep my head up and out of the line of fire these days!

I could go on quite a bit....but I have a million and one stuff I need to do!

For laughs,
I found this quiz online....
How crunchy are you?

Not sure how the scoring is done. I got a 111.

So I am....Mmm! Love that whole-grain crunch!

Happy New Year 2008

2008-01-01T22:20:00.001-08:00

I cannot believe its 2008! The years go by so much faster when you are an adult. This year I will have a 1 year old, a 2 year old and a 4 year old! Plus I am turing 30. I am a bit freaked out by that one! ...LOL... I have already started to plan the kids birthday party! I love to plan parties! I am thinking of doing one big party in April or beginning of May. Since Allys is beg of March and Elyse and the boy are in May two days apart. We shall see.

Lately I have been feeling a little insane. I have little time and even less patience. I need to get into the groove again.

So, here are my new years resolutions.....

1. Be more patient
2. Find time for myself
3. Re organize my household binder
4. Work on my Stampin' Up! Business

I guess I should just look at my 101 in 1001 for the rest! This could be a long list!...LOL....

Oh and a dear friend of mine reminded me that if you ask God for patience he will give you more to be patient about.....So guess what arrived at our house on Saturday? A black Lab puppy. It was a gift from Jason's good friend. (Which I really believe Jason put him up to) Now you know I love dogs, just did not want one of my own! He is the cutest little guy and the kids adore him. And Jason is more than thrilled to have a hunting dog. I just don't know how I am going to handle him!!!

This is our last week before school starts. We will be making cookies and playing with all the fun toys from Christmas! The break went by way too fast. Yet Elyse asks everyday if its a Preschool day! I hope her love of school lasts her entire life!

Cooper is getting his two front teeth. Thats what he got for Christmas!...LOL...So sad that my baby is no longer looking like a baby. But he gets cuter everyday!

Ally well is Ally! No fear child! I love her to pieces!

Ok, gotta feed Cooper. Hopefully I will blog more in this new year!

Christmas Eve Photos if you can call them that!

2007-12-28T13:38:00.000-08:00

So here are the very few no good very bad pictures that got taken on Christmas eve....I am a bad Mom and did not get pictures of just Cooper or even our little family of 5!

Here is the aunties, grandmas, girls, me and The Boy...Taken after dinner and presents which is why the pjs are on! And they do have Christmas pj's but they were left at my Moms!

Here are Elyse and Ally eating mini cupcakes after dinner. But I think they are still in the middle of dinner when the got them!

These are the super cute matching aprons and hair bands that my cousin Steven brought us! Love Love Love them!!

Now for something crafty...

This is the starbook I made the Grandparents....

See...No good pictures!...LOL...Story of my life! And I scrapbook! Ha Ha!

Day after Christmas Shopping Spree.....

2007-12-26T07:21:00.000-08:00

What a wild Christmas! We had a lot of fun! Elyse just had a blast opening her presents,and Allys, and Coopers and mine......... Ally did not want to open them she just wanted to play with everything Elyse opened! It was a blast! And I will not have to go clothes shopping for the kiddos for a while! Thank you Auntie Meghan!!

Today the girls are getting picked up and I am taking Cooper with us on our annual Day after Christmas shopping trip to San Jose! I am so looking forward to shopping, eating at Yankee Pier and hanging out in a super cool hotel room! Usually I take the girls with us but this year I needed a bit of a break! So its just Coop and I along with my Sister Meg and my Mom.

I have so much to do before we leave in two hours! I hate to leave a messy house. Jason told me this morning don't worry about it you can clean when you get home......um thanks.

Hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas! I gotta check what pictures I got. Since I was busy cooking and entertaining the kiddos I forgot to get the camera out!

Its almost Christmas!! YIKES! Better get on it!

2007-12-13T21:35:00.000-08:00

This month is flying by! Can you believe in two weeks Christmas will be over! WOW! So much going on.....

* Took Ally and Cooper to the doctor today. Ally got her second dose of her flu shot and weighs 25 pounds! I have always been against flu shots (don't really have a reason!) but I opted to get Ally one becasue of her breathing issues. Well last week or was it the week before? We had the flu here and guess who was the ONLY one not to get it? Ally! So Cooper got his today and Elyse will get hers in January. Cooper lost weight. I am so bummed out about this. I am still breast feeding. He does get a bottle when I work at Preschool or go to Mops. And he does not like solids. Well the doctor says to push solids 3 times a day. And wouldn't you know it, today at dinner he could not get enough!...Guess he just needed the doctor to say something!...LOL...Other than that he is great. Sitting, Jabbering and yes crawling! He goes mostly backwards but he is moving out! I am so sad that he is 7 months now and growing so fast! But not sad enough to have another baby!

* Yes folks this is the first Christmas in 2 years I have not been knocked up! Yippee!! I can enjoy some Christmas Cheer!

* I have been busy working on Christmas gifts and Card swaps. Our dining room table is a mess! Hopefully I can get it clean before our Christmas eve dinner!

* I did mail my ornament swap out before I was suppose to! Now I just gotta get my cookies baked this weekend.

* The menu for Christmas eve dinner is kicking my butt! I want to really show off this year and I am clueless!

* The girls are so excited for Christmas and santa! Jason and I are going shopping tomorrow. And we will go see Santa on Monday. Looking forward to THAT meltdown!...lol....

* Jason's Iraq trip has been pushed to February. Thank goodness! But then that means he will miss Ally's birthday in March. Lets just pray it never happens.

*We have gotten into knitting here. Yes another craft! Its on the loom so its super easy. Jason already finished two hats (shhh! don't tell him I told the world about that!)

* Elyse has been telling Daddy I need Diamond Earings for Christmas. Then today in the car on the way to Preschool she tells me I have to be nicer to Daddy or I will not get the Diamonds!....I about crashed the car I was laughing SO hard. Jason and I do not exchange gifts so I know they are not coming, but its nice of Elyse to think of me. She wants to get Daddy pj's. Because she said its weird he never puts any on!....That girl cracks me up!

* A dear friend of mine is 7 months pregnant with her third child. About two months ago her husband left her. He has since returned (power of prayer!) However, she has been in preterm labor for 3 weeks. Please pray that her little girl stays put until its safe. I worry about her everyday! I am doing everything I can to help her.

Thats about it for our world. Nothing too exciting....If I was not so lazy right now I would take pictures of my craft stuff to share. But it will have to wait!