Cookies for Christmas...

Stupid traditions!!  It seems for the past 3 or 4 years I have been able to avoid this tradition much to my delight.  It's not that I hate making cookies or even eating them.  And I really do think that it's important for Santa to have a snack.  But not necessarily at the expense of my kitchen floors. This year I had no grandmas, *Sue T., or *Gretchen H. (names have NOT been changed, they deserve the credit) to help my kids enjoy their childhood so I had to step up as their beloved mother.  (A small step)  So off I went to buy the refrigerated cookie dough and the tub of store-bought frosting.  I told you it was only a small step up.  No "made-from-scratch" cookies here. (Unless you count the "scratching my eyes out" from the flour mess.) And you know what?  It wasn't so bad.  Survivable.  Quite enjoyable actually.  We put smiles on our faces, too much sugar in our belly (it tastes better uncooked), and finally sprinkles on the cookies, counter and floor. It makes the floor more festive, don't you think?  And when you see smiles like this you start planning for next year (someone else's house and more flour.  Any offers?)   

Simple Woman's Daybook

Outside my window...

I am keeping an eye on our birdhouse that Lane made in Scouts.  There were about 10-15 birds eating out of it yesterday all within minutes of each other.  We have the most popular house on the block.  Bird house that is.

I am thinking...

about the gifts and cards I need to finish up.  They are the handmade part of my gifts.

I am thankful...

for the magic of Christmas.  I really enjoy seeing the kids get so excited about Santa.  We also really focus on the Savior.  But we focus on Jesus year round so I enjoy seeing the kids enjoy the mystery of Santa.

From the kitchen...

I haven't done the Christmas goodies to give out to friends this year.  But I'm craving the Oreo Truffles so maybe I'd better get started.

I am wearing...

a smile on my face.  My skin biopsies came back benign.  I feel relief to be able to move forward.

I am creating...

Scrabble Tile pendants (again).  The ones I made to give away I ruined on accident.  So I have to start over.

I am reading...

Isaiah.  He was such a great prophet.

I am hoping...

I can find a great Christmas present for Blake and have a little something to surprise him with.  He's a tough one to shop for.

I am hearing...

The Twilight soundtrack.  It makes me want to start reading the books (again).

One of my favorite things...

is volunteering in the kids school classes.  I taught a craft in Paige's class yesterday and will be doing Lane's Christmas party on Monday.  I taught Paige's class the "Snowman song" (Once there was a snowman, snowman, snowman).  They loved it and Paige got to help teach it.  

A few plans for the rest of the week...

watch people drink too much, say too much and show too much skin.  Or in other words--Blake's work party.

A picture thought I am sharing...

stay tuned.  I'm going to try to get a picture of the best birdhouse on the block and all its visitors. 

New tires, new babysitter, New Year's Resolutions

This past weekend I felt that we got a lot accomplished.  First, were the new tires.  My front tires were as smooth as a baby's butt (before new tires) and made it quite challenging to get through slush and even just rain made me slide around.  If I can tell that I need new tires than you have an idea how bad they were.  Within 5 mins. of picking up my car with new tires I almost wrecked. Note: Not my fault and I'm not just saying that.  Blake witnessed the lack of attention by the other older lady driving.  Insert your own "old people driving" jokes.

Next on our list.  Going out and having a new babysitter come over.  She is such a cute girl (no, I will not attach a picture of her--even though she is cuter than the new tires) and my kids love her.  She is becoming the new hot commodity so I felt the need to already book her for this next Saturday.  Have you seen that commercial where the lady brakes a cup in her hand because a friend wants her baby sitter's number?  That is how possessive I am feeling.  My mom taught me to share--but to what extent?  I gave her (said baby sitter) a little pocket calendar for my own selfish reasons. I wasn't being as thoughtful as people want to make me out to be.  So now when I call her weeks in advance she can pencil me in.  See how being nice can be beneficial?

Third.  New Year's Resolution.  I know... It's a little early to be worrying about "being a better you".  But I'm hoping that my jump start on it prevents me from procrastinating the whole month of January.  Now I'll just procrastinate for the rest of December and then be right on time.  I'm resolving to save in my grocery bill.  I read a blog (Tangled & True) who had a guest blogger (Carrian) give steps to do this.  (To find the articles look under Dec. 3rd, 5th, 8th, 9th, 10th, & 10th posts.)  She made it seem pretty do-able so I'm going to try. One month she said that she only spent $70 on groceries.  Even if I tripled that I being doing great.  I'm not going to have too high of expectations and I probably won't be building card towers out of $10 bills but I'm gonna try.  I'll keep you posted on "being a better me".  Of course after I procrastinate...

Purely Genius!

Blake took the time to update our Mac OS system (yes, we are one of those Mac users).  And we were gifted with "genius".  You pick a song from your iTunes and hit the "genius" button and wha-la.  You have a playlist (from your music library) that goes great with the song you picked. Right now I'm listening to a playlist created from "Flightless Bird, American Mouth" by Iron & Wine.  It's the song that Edward and Bella are dancing to at the end of THE movie (enough said). One of my new favorites.  I'm sitting in music heaven with Rob Thomas, The Police, Yellowcard, Jack Johnson, and Brandi Carlile.  Who needs to accomplish a "to-do" list today. Just kick your feet up, sit back and sing along.  (Oh, and blow my nose.  I have a horrible cold. Or at least that's the story I'm sticking with when Blake asks me how my day was.)

Making a list and checking it twice!

Off our back deck

I'm trying to figure out if I'm all ready for Christmas.  We've taken a much simpler approach to Christmas this year.  We're not moving to a new state like we were doing this time last year. So, I guess anything else in comparison is "simpler".  So raise your Mt. Dew (or drink of choice) and toast to one year in West Virginia.

We were talking to some new friends that just moved into the area and they won't be around family either for Christmas so I put on my brave face and told them how wonderful Christmas can be even without family. :(  We've celebrated most of our holidays without family that it's starting to become a norm for us.  Anyway, it got me thinking about our own family traditions that make our days so special.  One of our very favorite traditions is a steak fondue on Christmas Eve.  We've almost burned down our house during this tradition and it reinforces playing with fire to the kids. What a wonderful season.  Also on Christmas Eve we open a family present and it's always a game to play together that night.  I can't get through the season without a good smelling candle and Christmas music.  Those are the things I enjoy the most.

A fire truck drove by tonight with the sirens blaring and we thought our apartment was on fire. They were collecting food for the shelters so we had the kids standing outside (with flip flops on) waiting to hand them some food.  They thought that was neat.  That's a good tradition.  I also love helping with local Angel Trees.  I try to make sure the kids are with us when we do the shopping so they understand that this is a great season to serve.  I hope that all your holiday traditions are merry and bright but don't include burning your house down.

Christmas Cards: DONE

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

Blake and I actually came across this website a few years ago. It made us laugh then and it still makes us laugh. Consider this your Christmas card for the year. Boy, that was easy. (I wish Lane looked a little bit happier to be dancing in an elf costume).  Pause the music down at the bottom.

Am I the right person for the job?

I met someone years ago who said that she wanted to live her life with no regrets.  I don't think that it is possible.  If you're imperfect and human I think there will always be regrets or lessons learned that we wish we could do over.  I always remind myself that hindsight is 20/20 especially when I'm being hard on myself.  Having said that, I have a couple of regrets about parenthood that for some reason has been on my mind lately. Maybe it was Lane's milestone a week ago or maybe it's because one year is ending and another is getting ready to begin. Whatever the reason, I'd still like to share it and throw it out in the blog-o-sphere.  
I regret not enjoying my little ones more when they were little.  I look at old pictures and I see such innocence and joy in their faces. I regret getting caught up in trying to be a "perfect" parent or trying to make ends meet, or trying to do it with Blake working nights (those were hard). I feel like I'm forgetting their "little-ness" as they turn in to big kids.  I don't want to look back when they are 18 yrs. old and wonder were all the time went.  I regret being hard on myself as a new parent trying to figure it all out.  So for parents who still have "little-ness" around them remember that it doesn't matter if they aren't potty trained until they are going into High School, it's okay that they spilled red kool-aid all over the kitchen and it splash so far that it's in the living room too, and the hugs, kisses, smiles and kind words matter more than most anything else.  

I know, my kids are still young and I still get hugs and kisses because I'm the coolest mom ever (to them).  I've been know to say a prayer that most parents probably utter - that I don't mess them up because of my shortcomings.  My intentions are always pure and full of love for them and I want to be the best mom that they need.  I will never regret becoming a parent. I adore my full-time job and know that my children are the main reason for my existence.  I have been stretched more than I ever would have asked for and have been blessed 10x more than I would have ever expected.

There is no regret when it is done with love and kindness.  I'm off to kiss my sleeping angels. (They are so quiet and peaceful when they're sleeping). 

Why bother!

Blake and I took a non-traditional approach to Thanksgiving this year.  Prime rib.  Yummy. Of course the kids refused to eat (nothing new), I forgot the potatoes and stuffing (how do you forget those), and the kids just wanted to eat the bacon that I was going to sprinkle on the potatoes.  *Gretchen, now you know why I was thinking of you.  Last year was so much yummier.  Needless to say I felt jipped, so tonight for dinner we had the ham, potatoes, green beans and left over pie.  Not quite the same but next year I'm going to knock it out of the park and plan it out.   
On the plus side though, we got our tree up BEFORE Thanksgiving (there is a first for everything and probably a last).  Now that I've slaughtered Thanksgiving, I'll have all the kinks worked out and we'll have a great Christmas season.  Who am I kidding, I'll probably procrastinate and forget something big for this season also.  I often wonder what kind of memories my children will have of special traditions.  Denny's dinner for Thanksgiving, anyone? Because of our compact apartment we got a new SLIM tree and decided to splurge $20 on new ornaments and put the 10 year old ones to rest in the "poor, newlywed vault". Hopefully during this next week we'll get the REST of the decorations put up.  You have to have stockings up, right?  Better not procrastinate that.

Earn your keep

Kindergarten and the Reward System is crazy.  Paige comes home with treasures from the treasure box, free ice cream cone coupons and Happy Meal coupons from McDonalds, and free pizzas from Pizza Hut.  The other day we were treating ourselves with free pizza from Paige's stash of coupons and as we were driving there she says, "It's a good thing I'm such a good girl in school so I can get us food so we don't starve".  After we got done laughing we let her continue to believe that her good behavior was feeding us.  As long as it works and she keeps being good at school she can believe what she wants (and Blake is now going to cut back on his hours at work since we no longer need to feed ourselves with his paycheck).

Milestones

As I look through my life I enjoy remembering certain milestones.  Things that alter my life and offer change.  Graduations-for myself or my husband, Marriage, Having children, etc. Sometimes I look forward to certain milestones that take on a more individual celebration like, no more diapers in the house (admit it, potty training is a huge milestone), all my kids in school, my 35th birthday (not quite a celebration, that was a hard one).  I could go on and on with a musical montage of songs that reminds me of each milestone.  But this last week we had a special milestone that would fit into multiple groups of importance for me.  Lane turned 8 and was baptized.  It was a wonderful day.  

I thought I got a serious picture of him in white but I didn't.  This is all I got. Ugh.

I've been spending this last week enjoying the growth that I see in my baby boy and try not to focus on how old it makes me feel.  Lane is such an amazing kid and I see so much potential in him.  I can only imagine that this is how our Heavenly Father feels about each of us. One of Lane's strongest qualities is his willingness to be obedient.  I need to point out here that he doesn't always listen and I still find myself repeating things more times than I care to admit but I've also noticed that when it counts and when it's between good and bad choices, I always know which way his heart will lean.  He understand what his Heavenly Father expects of him and is always willing to help others.  

I had a non-LDS friend ask me about about our big weekend and was kind of surprised about Lane being baptized, was he being made to do this?, is he ready?, etc.  I hadn't thought much about it because the gospel is so much a part of our life and is the underlining purpose to everything we do.  I explained to her about Primary and how he's been taught about Jesus since he was little.  I talked to her about the Priesthood also.  She was surprised that Blake had the priesthood.  I am grateful for her questions because it reminds me to teach my children.  I want them to obey because they have a testimony of the gospel not because I've asked them to do it but because God has asked.

Lane asked me to speak on Baptism (and shook his head when I started getting teary-eyed) but I kept it short and simple.  Grandpa Ernie spoke on the Holy Ghost and used a picture that fit in perfectly.  It was of when Lane was 2 years old and climbing a ladder to reach Blake (the father) on top of the garage.  Gpa Ernie was standing right behind Lane making sure he wouldn't slip and fall.  (See how perfect this picture was?)  It was tied in with the Holy Ghost helping us return to our Father.  Blake had to preside, perform the ordinances, and welcome Lane into the ward.  Good thing the Elders were there so we could have two witnesses.  It was a simple but wonderful day.

Simple Woman's Daybook

You're so lucky.  You get two simple daybooks today for the price of one (free).  I love reading Blake's perspective.  Hope you enjoy our simple life.

Outside my window...

it is the same as Blake's window.  But please don't close the blinds.  I love the sunshine.  Just move to a different couch.

I am thinking...

about my doctor's appointment today.  I'm a little nervous.

I am thankful...

for sunshine and music.  It's the fastest way to put me in a better mood.  Dance, even if it's only on the inside.

From the kitchen...

I'm compiling a grocery list so I can feed my family (and parents-wohoo!).

I am wearing...

trouser jeans, great boots, and a jacket. I feel good about the way I look today.  But then again I can also feel good in a pair of sweats so that says nothing about my snazzy outfit. (I dress up for the gynecologist. Lucky her.)

I am creating...

amazing kids.  I'll take credit even though I think they came down from heaven pretty awesome.

I am reading...

all my magazine subscriptions.  Too many.  

I am hoping...

that my magazine subscriptions teach me how to better organize myself, dress myself, create new crafts, cook better, be a perfect person.  It's rough being a magazine in my house.  High expectations.

I am hearing...

Blake's list of music.  It's not TOO bad.  Bearable. Foot tapping.

One of my favorite things...

is spending time with my parents and in-laws.  I know, weird.  They really are some of the nicest people I know.

A few plans for the rest of the week...

is to love and enjoy the company I'm with.  Simple plans for a simple daybook.

Simple MAN'S Daybook

Outside my window...

The sun is in my freakin' eyes...close the blinds.

I am thinking...

I need to lose some weight.  Fast.

I am thankful...

For healthy kids and a great wife.

From the kitchen...

I don't need to be in the kitchen, think about the kitchen, or what I might find in the kitchen.

I am wearing...

New jeans and a new button-up shirt.  Had a wardrobe change this past week.

I am creating...

I don't create jack.

I am reading...

Anesthesia related material.  Got to keep up on the continuing education credits.

I am hoping...

For a nice relaxing weekend.

I am hearing...

Eric Clapton in HD from the flat screen (or is it the voices in my head).

Around the house...

It's noticeably cleaner.  Thanks honey.

One of my favorite things...

I no longer enjoy.  Pepsi.  Yep, that's right...I quit.

A few plans for the rest of the week...

Entertaining the in-laws.  Shouldn't be to hard.  Send the kids gma's way and sit gpa in front of the TV.

Here is a picture thought I am sharing...

My office view.

Patience is a virtue

It arrived today.  My birthday ring.  Not because it took a month to ship but because it took a month for Blake to order it.  It was worth the wait.  He actually put some thought into it and explained why he choose a sapphire gemstone--It's the gemstone for September.  The month that we were married.  Thank you sweetheart.  It really is the thought that counts but it doesn't hurt that it's just beautiful, too.  

Thank you!

Today we had a great opportunity to watch Lane walk in the Veteran's Day Parade.  It was his first Parade as a cub scout.  (I forgot my camera.) I was proud of him and his understanding of what Veteran's Day is about.  He gets it and is proud of his Grandpas for being "soldiers".  At the very end of the parade they had the casket that represented the Unknown Soldier.  We reminded the kids to stand quietly and respectfully.  I started to get teary-eyed thinking of the sacrifices of men, women, and families for this country.  Knowing that I have so many blessings because of sacrifices of others was very humbling. So thank you to all the veterans and those who are serving now.  I have experienced a little bit of that sacrifice because of my dad serving in the Air Force and it is appreciated by my little family.  

Saturday Happiness

We tried a new dinner tonight and we all thought it was delicious.  Of course some of the younger ones in the house didn't like the whole meal but definitely parts of it.  You be the judge.  

Spaghetti Squash w/ Turkey Meatballs

My mom will be so proud of me trying and liking spaghetti squash.  It is absolutely delicious. It's my new vegetable.  Paige isn't too fond of it but Lane is.  Our side dish was Balsamic Tomato and Mozzarella Salad.  I've had a hard time finding a salad recipe like this that is just right.  I've been comparing it to a restaurant in Syracuse, NY called the Dinosaur Bar (the best ribs too).  I've finally found it.  Paige loved this and gobbled up a lot of tomatoes.  So we'll let her slide on not eating the squash.  This is a really healthy dinner and it really filled us up.  This made me happy.  Now if only someone will do the dishes for me.  Click on the dinner title below the picture for the recipe from Rachael Ray and I'll add the Salad recipe below.  Happy eating.  So, spaghetti squash is my Saturday happiness.

Balsamic Tomato and Mozzarella Salad:

1 Tbl. balsamic vinegar

2 tsp. olive oil

1 clove garlic, minced

1/4 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. ground pepper

2 lrg. red bell peppers, halved and seeded

2 lrg. tomatoes, cut into 1/2"-thick slices

2 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese (I used the little balls of mozzarella)

1/3 cup fresh basil leaves, julienned

Preheat the broiler.  Coat a broiler-pan rack with cooking spray.

In a cup, whisk together the vinegar, olive oil, garlic, salt and black pepper.  Set aside.

Place the bell peppers, skin side up, on the prepared rack.  Broil, without turning, for 10 minutes, or until the skins are blackened and blistered in spots.

Place the peppers in a paper bag and seal.  Let stand for 10 minutes, or until cool enough to handle.  Peel the skin from the peppers and discard.  Cut the peppers into 1/2"-wide strips. Put tomatoes, peppers, mozzarella, and basil in bowl and drizzle dressing over it.  Let stand for at least 15 minutes to allow flavors to blend.  Enjoy.  I have to admit that I did mine without the red peppers because I forgot to get them at the store.  It was still delicious.  

Friday Happiness

So, the day began with the potential of being disastrous.  Have you ever shopped with someone who hates shopping.  My evil shopping companion for the day was my dear husband.  He enjoys looking nice but hanging out in crowded stores trying on thousands of jeans, etc. does not a happy man make.  I love shopping when the outcomes are "unbelievable deals".  I'm usually the one who finds out about great clearance items last when there is nothing worth salvaging in the piles.  And then my thoughts lead to "no wonder these are on sale, who would by this shiny gold top that is not quite made out of real material".  You know the stuff you see people wearing on WHAT NOT TO WEAR (one of my favorite shows) before Stacy and Clinton get their hands on them.  Without further ado...  
... here are my new shoes.  They were $8 then I got a 30% off coupon.  Which came in handy considering Blake got 3 pairs of pants and multiple shirts.  (Kohl's, you rock.)  My idea was to buy them and have them for next spring but since it's been pretty warm around here I've been wearing them whenever I can.  I know this is a silly post but I just wanted to share what made me happy on Friday.  Now I'll go dance in my new shoes.

Happy Crazy Candy Day!

Scream and Princess Padme' are the defenders of our home.

This is the neighborhood craziness.  Blake and I couldn't believe how many people where out.  The town sets the trick-o-treating time from 6pm-8pm and the kids mean business.  Cars could barely get through.  At times there was a line of 20 kids waiting to get candy.  I'm sure this picture doesn't do it justice.  It reminded me of how Halloween was when I was little and we trick-o-treated on the Air Force Bases.  The weather was perfect too.  We could've walked all night if Scream and Padme' didn't tire out.

This was their loot that they brought home.  I was actually pleased.  It didn't seem like a crazy amount that would last into the new year but enough that they could enjoy it for a week.  I also was so thankful for how my kids behaved.  They didn't run through people's flower beds, said thank-you, and walked with us having fun.  They are such great kids and I realize more and more how I want to always be great friends with them.  I know, being the parent comes first but once you teach them manners they become such neat little people.  Perfect Halloween experience and we all had a great day.  Sweet Dreams.  

Simple Women's Daybook, Oct. 30

Outside my window...

it is sunny and starting to warm up some.  Just in time for trick-o-treating tomorrow.

I am thinking...

about joining a gym.  It's too cold out to keep up the walking at the park.

I am thankful...

for scented candles.  I love them this time of year.  They smell so yummy.

From the kitchen...

I've got 6- 2 liter bottles drying for my Kindergarten Halloween game tomorrow.

I am wearing...

the same thing I was wearing at midnight, one a.m., two a.m., etc. 

I am creating...

these with my 6- 2 liter bottles.  Then the kids will bowl them over with a small pumpkin/gourd.  I'm thinking there will be lots of giggles.

I am reading...

Apart from the Crowd by Anna McPartlin

I am hoping...

that my kids don't get the horrible 24 hour flu I'm still recovering from, 48 hours later.

I am hearing...

the washer and dryer.  I do not have one of those quiet ones.

Around the house...

the junk piles are getting smaller.

 

One of my favorite things...

was watching Lane catch an interception this last game.  I think I embarrassed myself by being the "loud" mom.

A few plans for the rest of the week...

Halloween party, trick-o-treating, teaching in RS on Sunday.

Here is a picture thought I am sharing...

Who knew that Indian corn could be used as a weapon?

Happy Boss's Day!

Oh and by the way, It's also my birthday today and I find it pleasantly ironic that the two days are the same.  Because I'M THE BOSS (when the kids let me be the boss).  It's a rainy, cozy day. Blake took me to lunch and he'll be taking me to dinner (whether he likes it or not cause I'm not cooking--I'm the boss).  I made the kids cookies yesterday and this morning there were only 2 left.  Paige said that since it was my birthday that I could have both of them.  Lane on the other hand thought that we should split them all in half so we could all have some.  That is their personalities to a tee.  Paige is great at sacrificing all for the happiness of one and Lane is completely and totally fair for everyone.  

Presents for today include (but not limited to)

1.  1/2 of a cookie

2.  Cancellation of soccer 

3.  and football (who wants to sit out in the rain for 2 hours)

4.  Blake's frustrations trying to find me a specific gift.  30 mins. after he left the house I get a call saying "and this is why I never go shopping.  This is the reason for gift certificates"... and on and on.  Today I realized that I have a husband who, even though he adores me, he will never be a present "surpriser".  I think he'd be great at picking things out but is too nervous that I might not like it.  So now I must think of gift certificates as romantic and then drive off into the sunset and order dinner (with a gift certificate).

P.S. I love my life and am grateful I'm alive.  Thank you to all my family and friends for making the journey so fun.  And when it's not so fun, you all make it bearable.  Have fun today thinking of me and celebrating my life in your own special way.  Go out to dinner--I'm the boss.  :)

This Is Jen's Sister, Steph

Happy Birthday, My Dear Sister!!! I wanted to do a little something special for your Day. I want you to know that I love you and I'm so grateful to have such an amazing friendship with you. You truly do make me smile... Every day when I think of you, I smile. All your jokes, I smile. Your funny trials and life stories, I smile. Thinking that I get to spend eternity with you as my sister, I smile!
I love you!!

P.S. You can take down this background and post whenever you want. And I have another background you can put up if/when you want it. :)

Culture

Blake and I have been know to have as much culture in our life as there is in yogurt (and even then it would be a small size of yogurt.  More like a gogurt.)  We had a dinner party with a couple that I met through kids play groups.  These friends are Italian-Canadians who just move from France.  Doesn't that just ooze culture.  They are some of the nicest people I've met in a long time. Let's just call them "Maria & Mario".  They are wine conessuiures so Blake and I thought it was humorously appropriate to present them with a bottle of, you guessed it, sparkling apple cider. They shared it with us and of course washed it down with the real thing that I can't pronounce. They greeted us at the door with kisses on the cheek (like in the movies).  I didn't even mind another woman kissing my husband because it was so genuinely sweet.  Mario then made us dinner.  Real, fabulous, stop talking to me so I can eat this bit of heaven, Italian dinner. It was pasta and crab legs with a light tomato-crab sauce.  I'm not doing it justice.  My stomach is growling just thinking about it.  But that of course was after the peppers that were stuffed with lobster and grilled and then the Italian pizzas for the appetizers. All of this was followed with baclava (greek honey, filo, pistachio, gooey deliciousness) and brownies.  They offered us fancy cappuccinos, coffee, or warm milk.  We settled for the cold milk and sat surrounded with sweetness.  As if we could fit more into our unbuttoned pants. We managed.  There were a few things that I noticed from this evening that made it so wonderful.  I hope to follow their example as we entertain throughout our life.  If any of our company could feel half as welcomed as we did, then we've succeeded. 

1.  They accepted our differences (and there were plenty).

2.  The weren't shy to ask questions about our beliefs or life.  Maria recognized that our missionaries wore the black name tags and the "Mormon" church had great commercials.  

3.  The meals were drawn out so we could enjoy the company.  I thought the peppers and pizza was dinner.  Then came the "heaven in a dish" crab pasta.  I know, I'm kind of over the top about the food.  But seriously, I guess you had to be there.

4.  They were so polite and courteous of us.  They even tried to find the sparkling apple cider so we'd feel more comfortable but they didn't know where it was.  (Juice aisle, top shelf, Walmart)

Anyways, It was a wonderful evening.  I'm trying to figure out how to reciprocate, but how do you follow that?  BBQ? Dutch Oven?  Any ideas?  Blake and I now can admit that we have a little bit more culture in our lives.  A large container of yogurt.  

Business of Making Friends

You'd think with as much as I've moved around in my Air Force life that making friends would become easier with practice.  No such luck for me.  But I still have life left to be lived (say that 10 times).  This week, I have once again opened mouth inserted foot and in the process "pulled a Jen".  That is when you have really good intentions and your heart is in the right place but yet you still manage to offend, hurt, or anger someone.  I manage to do all 3 at the same time.  Like I said, I've had lots of practice.

It all began at a dang PTA meeting trying to be a supportive and near perfect parent.  (I say that as if the PTA can solve my imperfections.  I've realized that it is now the cause of some of them.) We were talking about the Fall Festival coming up and peanut allergies were brought up by a PTA member that unfortunately has a child with peanut allergies.  Everyone just looked at her with the blank stare that screamed something like, "and that is our problem how" or "too bad, but we don't really want to change anything for you".  In my effort to defuse the situations and take her side to offer help,  I very horribly, as if I've never spoken in public before, asked for any solutions that maybe she'd thought would work.  Doesn't sound too bad does it?  Well, it put her on the defensive and her husband ended up visiting the school to have a "talk".  Now, I don't think the "talk" was in reaction to what I said, but to the overall reaction of everyone including the Principle.  Now through a friend of the friend, I know she harbors ill feeling toward me.

Now on the other side of the story, it has me analyzing every detail and how I can be a better "me".  Isn't that what women do best--analyze.  I've been blessed with great friends.  You know the kind that always say the right thing, do the right thing, even wear the right thing.  The kind that you finish having lunch with and think... "What a neat person. I'm so glad that they're my friend."  Well, I'm not one of those people.  I consider myself the "weak link".  I'm kind of the entertainment for the group.  The clown in the corner.  Please don't comment on how wonderful you think I am.  My only reply will be that you know me well enough to translate my horribly initiated  pure intentions.  You no doubt have said at one time or another "that's just Jen".  My question to you, family and friends, is what quality do you love to have in a friend? Leave a comment, it's for a hopelessly good cause.  Now I'm off to buy a Tivo/DVR to rewind my life.

Boys: Lesson #1

Last night Paige and I were having a "girl moment" making a couple of baby bracelets for a baby shower I had today.  While we were making an all white one Paige asked if it was for the baby's wedding?

Me: "She's just a baby, she can't get married now. You have to be a grown up." I continued on with my teaching moment/lecture of marrying your best friend--has to be a boy--I'd like for him to be a Mormon--"But how will I know if he's Mormon"--you'll know, he needs to treat you nice, temple marriage, blah, blah, blah. I really thought I'd overdone it and lost my audience. Her next comment was...

P: "When you get married in the temple you don't have to kiss the boy if you don't want to.  You only have to say nice things to him."  

Me: "You're right sweetie."  My thought process continued on in my head to say "Sometimes it's just easier to kiss him when you have nothing nice to say".

Simple Women's Daybook, Sept. 29th.

Outside my window...

It's very "froggy".  When I go walking it makes my hair go all curly and looks like I'm working up a sweat.  

I am thinking...

about the creepy old man that hugged me this morning while I was walking.  Then I was told it was my fault because I was so pretty.  Thanks for the compliment?? Don't worry dad it's under control, he won't be hugging me again. (I just have to put that to ease your worries).

I am thankful...

for the internet.  I love that I can keep in touch with family and friends even though I'm not a telephone person.

From the kitchen...

I am working on being a more organized cooker.  I remember a day, a long time ago, when I would have a bi-monthly menu for dinners.  It really helped the budget.  I need to start doing that again.

I am wearing...

scrubs for the third day in a row. I know... gross. YOU can come do the laundry.

I am creating...

necklaces and bracelets.  I'm trying to organize my Super Saturday workshop.

I am reading...

Midnight Sun by Stephanie Meyer (I'm actually done with it, I finished it last night). It's on the internet here. It's from Edward's perspective and I loved it. Too bad she's not going to finish it right now. You can also read the drama behind it on the link.  Wait: finish reading my blog before you start the book.

  

I am hoping...

that my eyesight adjusts.  After reading 264 pages on the computer in 6 hours, your eyes do funny things.

I am hearing...

iTunes. A little bit of this and a lot of that.

Around the house...

I have a lot of cleaning to catch up on.  You'd think I'd left the country for a week instead of just reading a (partial) book for a day.

One of my favorite things...

is going on adventures with my little family.  The kids are just starting to get old enough to be independent and have their little own humor.  We really laugh together.

A few plans for the rest of the week...

A little bit of soccer, football, PTA, baby shower (not mine), and General Conference.  I need to get a cable to hook the computer up to the TV so we can watch it on the flat screen and feel like Utah and Idaho members.

Here is a picture thought I am sharing...

This was our adventure.  We really look forward to going back when the colors start to change more.  This picture was taken before Paige slipped and kissed a rock (the rock left a hickey on her chin) and I was attacked by falling acorns (actually being thrown) on my head.  It hurts more than you'd imagine.  Even though Nature was a little rough on us we still had a great day together.

About Mommy...

Do you ever wonder what your kids think of you?  I send them off to school and watch them develop their own little personalities and I wonder what goes on in their heads. Well, I asked my kids a few insightful questions.  And these are their responses.  It's nice to see that they think my world revolves around them.  It does (when I'm not sleeping all day, chopping leaves, or shopping)

1. What is something mom always says to you?

L- Stop being mean to your sister.

P- If I want to get a toy you say, "NO, NO, NO, NO".

2. What makes mommy happy?

L- Me hugging and kissing you.

P- When I hug you real tight.

3. What makes mom sad?

L- Not being able to find us.

P- When I break one of your things.

4. How does mom make you laugh?

L- By telling me funny things.

P- When you tickle me

5. What was mom like as a child?

L- You like to play Chutes-n-Ladders.

P- Little

6. How old is your mom?

L- 34 yrs.

P- 52 yrs.

7. How tall is your mom?

L- I don't know. How stupid is that.

P- (shrug) Let's go see.

8. What is mom's favorite thing to do?

L- Play with her kids.

P- Helping me.

9. What does mom do when you're not around?

L- Get's peace and quiet.

P- Sleeps all day.

10. If your mom becomes famous, what will it be for?

L- Singing.

P- Writing.

11. What is your mom really good at?

L- Playing games.

P- Reading.

12. What is your mom not very good at?

L- Football.

P- Chopping leaves.

13. What does your mom do for her job?

L- Clean House.

P- Go shopping.

14. What is your mom's favorite food?

L- Chinese.

P- Pepperoni Pizza.

15. What makes you proud of your mom?

L- She comes to lunch with me.

P- When you hug me.

16. If your mom were a cartoon character who would she be?

L- Jerry of 'Tom and Jerry'

P- SpongeBob

17. What do you and your mom do together?

L- Play games.

P- Play dolls.

18. How are you and your mom the same?

L- We love each other.

P- We have the same kind of skin.

19. How are you and your mom different?

L- Mom doesn't play football.

P- Different hair.

20. How do you know your mom loves you?

L- You worship me and feed me.

P- You give me hugs and kisses.

New Babysitter!

We have done it.  We've found a babysitter that everyone can be happy with.  It's free and it's called SCHOOL. I had an epiphany while walking this morning.  Blake and I could do afternoon dates when he is post call.  So that is what we did today.  After dropping the kids off for school I went walking and he went running (it was nice to chit-chat during our warm-up and cool-down) then I went off to my religion class and we met for lunch to discuss all the things we can do during our "day-dates".  Kind of like "play-dates" minus the kids.  We're thinking tennis, frisbee, uncrowded movies, guitar hero battles, and on and on.  I think I could get used to having my husband home during the day if we still didn't need his income.  So until retirement, this weekly date thing will be a blast. 

Food, Glorious Food

I've been spending my morning getting caught up on things around the house today. Lane has had strep and has spent the last two day dramatically telling me how sore his throat is.  Well, today he had the green light from the doctor to go back to school so now the house is quiet and I'm trying to be productive.  In the process of being more productive I was going through my emails and came across a lot of new recipes I have bookmarked to try.  One of my favorite websites is the Kraft Foods site.  They give great easy recipes that seem pretty kid friendly. You can also sign up for the FREE magazine (sign up for the weekly newsletter, it rocks).  Yes, free.  And it always has great ideas and even helps get my mind thinking so I can tweek it for my own family.  I've been spending at least 3 nights a week at the soccer/football fields and we have to be there by 5:30.  That is normally when we eat dinner so I need fast, healthy meals. Needless to say, going through my emails has help re motivate me to be better prepared.  Here are a few recipes that caught my attention. Warning: this website can be addicting. 


I hope this helps motivate someone else to have family dinners.  Like I mentioned, between soccer, football, and Blake being on call, we've not been as good sitting down eating as a family and I can tell the difference in not having as much "talking time" with each other.  So even though Blake is on call today and we have soccer and football tonight--we will be eating dinner at the table with no TV on and we will not forget to bless the food.  This will be a good night. Now, what should we eat? :)

Things to do...

without the kids at home.  I'll start with the obvious. 

1. Run around the house naked.

2. Eat real lunches.  No mac-n-cheese (with hot dogs) here.

3. Eat the hidden stash of chocolate ...without sharing.

4. Shower without having to listen for dying children choking on their spit.

5. Walk three miles without having to stop for cracker refills or dropped toys.

I'm sure I'll add to this list but these we're the things I noticed on the first, quiet, day.  I'm enjoying the free time.  I've realized I get so much more accomplished.  But I only enjoy it because the kids are happy and I get to pick them up after school and give them sweet hugs and tell them how I missed them.  Distance does make the heart grow fonder in this case.  

Treasure Hunt Tuesday

I have a friend who takes great pictures and has a treasure hunt every Tuesday where I can share pictures based on the theme. This last week was "Plants, flowers, and trees, oh my". I knew I had to get with it on this theme. Because we have plenty of all that here at home.

This is where I go walking every morning and I love the fresh air and all the trees.  (sorry they're late Jenee).  

My necklace.

In the previous post I mentioned a great necklace that I was wearing.  So now I will share. HomeStudio  is an etsy shop I was introduced to through another great blog, Make and Takes. Mark and Stefani at HomeStudio have great designs and great customer service.  I had to get the kitty cat tile for Paige.  It has a mommy kitty and a little girl kitty.  Paige can't wait to wear it.  I want to get silk cording to go with it and tie the adjustable knots on it (I don't like the chain for her).  I'm not a very good picture-taker so if you go to their website you'll see it better.  Sometimes they run great specials like 'buy two get one free'. I thought these were super cute so I wanted to share. Perfect for Christmas presents. HomeStudio also shares their directions of how they make them.  (I want to point out that this was another reason why I like HomeStudio. They are willing to share their ideas.)   Well, I need to go shower and put on one of my necklaces because I have a lunch date with a second grader.  He wants me to experience Pizza pockets at the cafeteria. Yippie, I can't wait. I should just be grateful that he still wants me around. I think I'm pretty cool but it's nice that he does too.

Simple Women's Daybook, Sept. 5th

Outside My Window...

it is sunny and 85 degrees. The rain is coming in tomorrow.

I am thinking...

about special friends.  I'm missing them. Especially the ones that make me laugh out loud when you least expect it.

I am thankful...

for hair straighteners.  They give me another day of not having to wash my hair. 

From the kitchen...

I came.  Once I saw (and smelt) all the dirty dishes I decided to blog first.

I am wearing...

a great new necklace (with clothes as well). I'll include a picture eventually.

I am creating...

memories.  If I can ever figure out what camcorder to buy I might actually be able to retain the memories.  I have a bad memory. Will that be fixed in the resurrection?

I am reading...

a lot of kids homework and all the school papers they send home.  Seriously, save a tree or two.

I am hoping...

for my vertigo to go away and never return.  There is always hope.

I am hearing...

Nothing, nothing, nothing. 

Around the house...

are legos.  It's funny how you find little planes, trains, and automobiles in every cubby possible.

One of my favorite things...

are kisses from my kids.  Paige gives me kitty cat kisses/licks and Lane tries to give me soap opera kisses. He smashes my face and I try to tell him that girls don't like that.

A few plans for the rest of the week...

a little bit of this, a little bit of that.  The world is my oyster (without kids in tow). And I have a hot date tonight with a man that I've known for 13 years.

Here is a picture thought I am sharing...

Nice clean school shoes.  Once they hit the playground they never look like this again.

10 years of something resembling pure bliss

Today marks the day that 10 years ago Blake complained of the heat, pictures being taken of him, and all the attention that he was getting.  Otherwise know to me as our wedding day.  Thank heavens he had no complaints about his bride.  (I was pretty perfect)  It's been a wonderful 10 years and relatively painless.  He still makes me laugh and I smile when I see him across the room.  Ten years into it all, I now know what a great dad he is and how supportive, easy-going, and hard-working he is.  I am always first on his list.  Thanks for a great 10 years and I'm excited to see what the next 10 bring us.

His gift will be something to keep him young at heart.  Stay tuned...

(Hurry and read this. Blake may delete it at any time because of the sappiness.)

1st day of school (or 5th)

This is Paige's first day of school but actually Lane's 5th day of school. I got Lane's original pictures on the new camcorder but we ended up taking it back because of Mac compatibility. So in the process we lost the pictures and 1st football game. And that is the quick story of how Lane's "very special 1st day of school pictures with new clothes" turns into the "very un-special 5th day of school pictures with last years clothes ('cause Mom forgot to do the laundry)".

(Paige's teacher didn't recognize her at first.  Probably because her hair was pulled out of her face.)

Paige's first day seemed to go very well for her. Mine on the other hand was a little rough. I went exercising right after and could barely see were I was going. For once I was very grateful to Blake for poisoning my ipod with horrible loud rock music.  It made it very hard for me to focus on my babies.  That was until a Taylor Swift song came on and all I could see was Paige as a 16 year old.  See how my day was going?  I did enjoy the rest of the afternoon after I got past how quiet is was at home.  It made it even sweeter when I picked the kids up and Paige was smiling and having a great day.  She met 2 new friends but can't remember their names.  She was really excited that her teacher didn't give any homework.  Really, what Kindergarten teacher would give homework on the first day of school?  She enjoyed it all even with a double ear infection (found that out tonight. Sorry babe, I guess your ear really does hurt).  Lane capped off his evening with a football game and scoring the final touchdown (they don't keep score and he is normally an offensive lineman) so it was kind of sweet for him.  Coming up next: all the things you can do at home without kids.  I'm trying to keep positive about all this change.  

Real Men of Genius...Dedicated to Evil Empire 3

We don't drink...just love the song!!  Please disregard all the advertisements.

(Pause the music down below)

Simple Woman's Daybook, Aug. 29th

This is a new way to share some of my thoughts that I want to try to do weekly.  Warning: Comments may be very random, sarcastic, and real.  You'll probably get to see the more imperfect part of my personality.  I know, you didn't think I was imperfect, did you?

Outside my window...

It's cloudy but finally stopped raining.  Maybe we can play outside later today.

I am thinking...

about the changes in my life.  Am I ready for them?  

I am thankful...

for employment (or should I say my husband's employment.  My job of MOM will always be in demand). I have a friend who was recently laid off and the stress and unhappiness is painful.

From the kitchen...

The dishes are clean, do I really need to say more?

I am wearing...

pajamas, of course.  I live in the east and I don't require myself to be productive until the rest of my family and friends in the west wake-up.  (I know, it's a stretch).

I am creating...

a mess.  I'm supposed to be organizing things.  It's not working very well.

I am reading...

the Old Testament.  I signed up for an Institute class.  Sorry to say, this is my first time reading the Old Testament.

I am hoping...

that I get through this next week with my baby starting school.

I am hearing...

"Wonder pets, wonder pets, we're on our way to help the baby kitten and save the day."  (Paige's favorite cartoon)

Around the house...

the floors are clean (vacuumed and mopped).  We had visitors and there are some things I only do when we have visitors.

One of my favorite things...

is the smell of freshly cut grass. The Gap has a perfume that reminds me of cut grass. I love it but don't own any. (My birthday is coming up :).

A few plans for the next week...

will be very simple.  I'm switching over to emotional survival.  Paige will start school and then I will try to figure out my purpose in life.  I know it sounds dramatic but that is where I'm at even if it is irrational.  My babies are growing up.

Here is a picture thought I am sharing.

We went on a new adventure close to home.  Lane got a little too close to this waterfall.  I told him that I wouldn't jump in to save him.  I know, that sounds so horrible when it's repeated. Not one of my good parenting moments. 

If anyone else wants to do a "Simple Women's Daybook" on your blog I'd love to read them.