CHRISTINE'S DIGITAL CORNER

Another Hodgepodge!

2012-02-01T07:27:00.000-05:00

1. It's that most wonderful time of the year...tax season! Do you complete your own returns or farm that job out to the professionals?

I think that I would prefer a "professional" to do our taxes. Alas, my husband may not be a tax man, but he is a numbers man. He work with numbers, large numbers all day. Therefore, when he does our taxes he forgets that my little side business (creative memories) is not on the same scale as his big business employer. I know other consultants whose taxes are very simple to do. Mine not so. He drives me nuts with it. I drive him nuts with it. Good times. Good times are ahead.

2. This next question comes from Kansas Bob...he posed it in his response to something I asked in an earlier Wednesday post and I asked him if I could add it to the Hodgepodge some day. Today's the day....

Which do you think has changed you more-love or pain?

Ohhh, good one....... I'm really not sure. I do think that dealing with a painful situation does change a person. I have been touched by such and it has changed me, but thankfully I think I have been changed more by love. I have been blessed to find love in many places - love of family, love of friends, my DH (the love of my life), and also the knowledge that I am loved by God. Love is a powerful thing and I am very blessed to have it surround me.

3. Tangerine Tango has been named color of the year for 2012. Your thoughts? Would I find this color anywhere in your house? How about in your closet? If not, will you be adding this color to your life in some way in 2012? If you're not sure what tangerine tango looks like click here.

Not really. I do have some similar colors in my bedroom, but I don't really follow the trends. Therefore, I will not be painting any rooms this color:)

4. Are you a collector? What do you collect and does it get admired, used, and/or dusted regularly?

I do have a collection of snowmen. They only come out in the winter, so they are not out really long enough to collect dust. And with the light (I'm not even sure that I can call it) winter, I really feel like I should be putting up my spring decor!

5. February is National Heart Month...besides a green salad what is one tasty heart healthy dish you like to prepare?

We eat a lot of fish in my house. All the boys love to eat it. One of our favorites is a herb-crusted salmon. It is very easy to make and is usually served with a side of asparagus to make it even a little better.

6. When was the last time you had car trouble?

The battery on my car has died. I was lucky that it was in my driveway and I was able to plug it into a battery charger for the day before I needed to pick up the boys.

7. Have you been more demanding on yourself lately or less? Is that a good trend?

I don't think I have been more or less demanding on myself. I think that is a good thing! I think that I do expect a lot from myself, but I've learned to let some things fall to the wayside. So maybe, I have been less demanding of myself. I look at it more as prioritizing my life.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

I recently was talking to a friend about our children. We were discussing how the boys question everything. I do mean everything. It's not that they are bad kids. It's not that they don't do what they are told. It is that they question EVERYTHING and that it also takes several reminders for them to turn of video games, pick up their shoes, ect, ect. We also know that our kids are not the only kids like this, because you see it on the playground. A mom says it's time to go. See says it again, and sometimes again. Then there is a discussion if they can have 5 more minutes.

This is the part that ages me. When I was a kid if an adult told a kid to do something, there were no questions asked, no deals made. It was just done. I really think that the pendulum may have swung too far the other way. Yes, kids should be made to feel like their opinion counts, but they also should not be made to feel like they are running the show. Sadly, I know in many cases they are running it. I don't think it doesn't help them in the long run either.

Live, Laugh, Love

and

Scrap it all!

Shhh, don't tell anyone

2012-01-26T07:54:00.004-05:00

I have a secret to admit.

A deep, dark, dirty secret.

I don't think I'm the only one with a secret.

Am I????

Are you ready???

Ok, here I go.

I don't know if I should admit it or not....

But those who know me, may not be surprised.....

Ok, I'm going to say it.

I am not the most organized person in my home.

Whew, I feel much better!

Now, if you come to my home it doesn't look like a house on horders.

But if you go behind the curtain you will see the truth.

I will only embarassingly show you one example.

I'm embarrassed to post such a photo.

But with any disorder, the first step is admitting that you have a problem.

I have a problem.

I would much rather bake a cake, play on the computer, even fold laundry than organize my house.

I've slowly been trying since putting away the Christmas Stuff.

One of the reasons I haven't been posting much.

I've got boxes of things to donate or that I have donated to my Church's Thrift Store.

I think the older Church Ladies who run the Thrift Shop wonder why I kept everything.

But at least all the extra stuff that has been cluttering my life is going to a worthy cause.

Those that can't afford new stuff get a great deal and all monies raised goes to local women causes.

Win, win, win!

I am making progress.

Slowly, but it is amazing what just adding some storage bins will do to reign in the caos..

I am by no means done,

but it is a start.

Do you think less of me now that you know my dirty little secret?

I hope not.

I will update you on my quest to have a Martha Stewart house.

Too bad my life is more like that of "The Middle."

Live, Laugh, Love

and

Scrap it all!

Let's save some money!

2012-01-13T09:14:00.000-05:00

I was recently asked to review a site and post about it on my blog.

I know, I've got my Big Girl Blog panties on.

After looking at the site, I thought I will do this.

No, I'm not selling out.

But what I am doing is going to help all my blogging friends find the sales!

The site that I'm refering to is couponchief.com.

What a great site!

It is filled with lots of great coupon codes to be used at stores you would normally shop at.

You can find coupons by looking for the store, product type,

Did you make a resolution to get fit this New Year?

There is a coupon on their site for that.

Need new furniture?

There are coupons for that too.

Going to AC Moore, Hobby Lobby, or Micheals?

Don't forget to print out your coupon before you go!

I know I buy a lot of my craft and baking supplies so I will be sure to do this!

One of my goals this year

Not resolutions, goals

is to cut down on spending.

This will help me with that all the while I am getting what I want!

I cut out coupons from my Sunday paper for my groceries,

why wouldn't I do it for my online shopping or before I go to a store.

You can even set up a profile and they will let you know when your favorite store has a coupon.

Easy Peasy!

Live, Laugh, Love

and

Scrap it all!

Another Hodgpodge

2012-01-11T23:41:00.001-05:00

1. Lake Superior University has once again banished a list of words/phrases they think should be banished from the Queen's English in 2012-

amazing, baby bump, shared sacrifice, occupy, blowback, man cave, the new normal, pet parent, win the future, ginormous, trickeration and thank you in advance.

Which of these words/phrases would you most like to see banished from everyday speech and why. Go here to read more about how the words were chosen.

Hmmmm....... I must be out of the loop because I've actually never heard of Pet P, arent, New Normal, Trickeration, blowback, and Win the Future. Out of the remaining, I have to go with Baby Bump. I mean really - Baby Bump?

2. Are you easily embarrassed?

I'm at the point in my life where I go with the phrase "it is what it is." I can laugh at myself when I have done something silly. Really we all need to stop taking everything so seriously and just relax a little.

3. what is your go-to snack?

I don't know if I have a go to snack. I'm a grazer, so I will just pick at what is in the house. A favorite is apples with peanut butter.

4. Have you ever been to Washington DC? if not do you have any desire to go? What site/attraction would you most like to see in that city? If you have been what's your favorite site?

I've never been but it is on my list. There are lots of places that I would like to see, but one of that would be a must see would be the Vietnam memorial. My father's brothers name is on the wall. I think that would be moving to see and share with my kids.

5. sit ups-planks-lunges-squats-which one do you hate the least?

I don't mind any of them at all. That maybe because I don't do any of them either. Hmmm, maybe that's why my jeans are shrinking:)

6. What's a small act of kindness someone did for you that you've never forgotten?

When I was in 4th grade, I had just started a new school in a new town. I was shy, nervous, and luckily was put in a class with a very caring teacher. She took me under her wing and really went the extra mile for me.

7. Have you ever been a blood donor?

When I was a working a million years ago, my company had regular blood drives. I became a gallon blood donor because of it. I even was able to donate platelets several times. Although, it took my blood a long time to complete the donation. They told me that I should just stick with blood donations:)

8. Insert your own random thought here.

I was talking to another mother today at Little Guy's preschool. We were talking about how it seems like many parents just don't say no to their kids anymore. Where things that would never have been allowed, tolerated, or even on the table when we were kids have become the norm. For instance:

You would not believe how many young kids (and I mean young 2nd and 3rd graders) are playing games like Grand Theft Auto, Halo and call of duty.

These games are rated M for

Blood and Gore
Drug Reference
Intense Violence
Strong Language

What is wrong with this picture???? I just don't get it. These (for the most part I think) are good parents.   But for some reason don't think that these types of games are inappropriate for a 7 year old.   These are not the Packman graphics we grew up on.   These are VERY realistic games.   Games where it appears like you are actually in the action and the view is that from your gun.   How can this be helpful to a growing mind. Hmmm.   But then again.....

Don't get me started on what shows/movies some of them watch.

Now, I know I sound like an old fuddy duddy.   I'm not.   Really (ok, maybe a little).   But what happened to telling kids no.   I know that my parents weren't afraid of telling me no.   They didn't care if Sally had something and I didn't.   It is almost like parents are so afraid that their child will be the only one without a certain game or movie that they cave into the peer pressure not the kids.

Big Guy is almost 12.   He knows that his parents don't like these types of games and he can't have them. Period.   End of story.   Guess what, he doesn't ask for them because he knows he's not getting them.

So my advice to parents - Stop worrying about the little stuff like no cupcakes for school birthdays and start looking at the big picture.

Rant over:)

Live, Laugh, Love

and

Scrap it all!

The Good Side of Humanity

2012-01-10T08:07:00.000-05:00

If you watch the evening, morning, or afternoon news, you might think that there is no good left in this world. I'm sure that we can all recount stories of someone doing the right thing at the right time for the right reasons. Here is one such story......

One of my Best Friends is a widow. She lives far, far away moving for financial reasons after her husband passed away unexpectedly after changing jobs. He was literally a week eligible from being able to get life insurance from his new job (they checked as due to a health condition no one would insure him. The thought they could go the few weeks without it before he switched jobs). She is a single mom who basically lives on her small salary and her social security. It is hard especially when you are caring for a growing boy.

Last week, she realized that she had a water problem. Her front yard was flooding. She called the water company who came out and informed her that it was her problem as it was the pipe coming out of her house. Here's what happened (what tv character says that?)

First a friend who has a son who is a plumber apprentice came out to look at it. He was all set to fix it for just the cost of material. But then he realized that he couldn't and called a friend of his. Who knows what he told his friend, but when the plumber came out he told my friend he would fix it. He gave her a quote that was unbelievable. She knew it. He knew it too and asked her not to tell anyone this unbelievable amount. Especially since he was installing new water pipes requiring him to cut through sheet rock, the stone of her house and all the other stuff. Even with this, she didn't have the money. He told her he only needed $600 upfront and she could pay the rest over time. (Yeah, that happens a lot!). She was able to borrow $300 from her parents, but obviously not enough. Dear Hubby and I would have been happy to help as we've done in the past; but she needed the money the next morning..........

She goes to work the next morning. In her mailbox is an envelope with her name on it and nothing else. She opens it and it has $200! After lunch, her mailbox has a second envelope with just her name on it again. This envelope has $100!

So remember this story while watching the news today. That although all the bad news makes the headlines, there is a silent majority out there doing the right thing for the right reasons without asking for anything in return even acknowledgement.

Live, Laugh, Love

and

Scrap it All!

2012-01-04T22:50:00.000-05:00

1. What are three words you would use to describe your 2011?

Quick
Over

Missed

2. Do you like shrimp? What's your favorite way to have it prepared?

What's not to love about shrimp? Nothing as far as I'm concerned. We pulled out a ring of shrimp with some cocktail sauce to ring in the new year. It used to be just Dear Hubby and I sharing it, but now we have to fight Big Guy for our share. If someone else is preparing it........ I do love a GOOD shrimp scampi, shrimp with asparagus, or any type of shrimp pasta dish.

3. Is your house de-Christmased? If so, when did you tackle that job? If not, when will the decorations come down?

50/50. Usually by the day after New Year's Day, you would never even have know it was Christmas. Not this year for some reason. I did put away a bulk of it, but I still have a tree in the front window, small trees in the boys room, and some odds and ends. I did take down the big tree in our living room. I did wait till yesterday which was very late for me. I've been known to begin taking decorations off before New Year's. One thing that I do get away with - Many of my decorations are snowmen. So, I re-purpose them for winter decorations and don't put them away till February..

4. Do you like to watch scary movies?

It depends what you call scary. I like movies that are intense, suspenseful, and there is no gore. I can NOT take the movies (scary or not) that include nasty, not for my eyes scenes.

5. ice skating~sledding~ skiing~snowboarding...of the four listed which wintertime activity do you most enjoy?

Ice skating is too much work because I'm usually holding someone up from falling. Just too exhausting. I went skiing once in high school and I think that was more than enough for me. If I couldn't handle it when I was young (not that I'm old), than I really don't need it now! Snowboarding - Are you kidding me?? I do love sledding. I go with the boys and it is just so much fun. The boys are still young, so we really don't go to any big hills, but we have a great time. I still impress them that I will go down the hill with them:)

6. Did you have a childhood hideout? Describe it.

Nope

7. What's a place or space that motivates you?

Does HGTV count??? I love seeing what they can do and it always gives me ideas.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

Everyone keeps asking if I've made any resolutions for the New Year.   I feel bad that I haven't.   It's not like I don't have several that I could easily list off....

1. Loose weight
2.   Cook better meals
3. Use more coupons
4.   Cut back on my spending
5. Get more sleep
6.   Get off computer more
7. Do a better job of keeping house up

See, these are things that I know I need to do.   Will I do them?   Maybe.   Should I do them?   Absolutely.    But I also know that if I make any of these my resolutions, I will not keep them.    So, these are things that I would like to do.   That I may do.   But they are not my resolutions. I will do them because I know that I should do.

Do you make resolutions?   Do you keep them?

Live, Laugh, Love

and

Scrap it All!

The Post Christmas Squeeze

2011-12-29T10:44:00.001-05:00

Those of you with young children might know what I'm talking about.

Please tell me you do?

That it's not just me.

Santa so nicely leaves a whole slew of goodies under the tree for the kids to tear into Christmas Day. The problem is that his elves don't take anything away. I think a new Christmas tradition should be instead of leaving Santa cookies and milk, we should leave him a box of toys to take with him. Hmmmmm, it could work.

Two of the things (actually they are not things as they are live animals) given at Christmas were the cutest little guinea pigs named

Sunshine and Bolt.

Aren't they cute?

I think so.

One is Middle Guy's (the orange one)

One is Little Guy's (the black one)

The problem is they have to share a cage.

Middle Guy and Little Guy do not share rooms.

I should say they didn't share a room.

Yesterday was spent moving Big Guy to Little Guy's room

and

Little Guy to Big Guy's room.

This worked out well since Big Guy is getting the the age where he wants his own space.

But Still.

Then today,

I'm working on the play/computer room.

Need to make more room for the kids to play kinnect games without breaking the tv.

Good times.

Actually it is:)

Post photos when I come out from under the mess.

Live, Laugh, Love

and

Scrap it all!

Christmas Hodgepodge

2011-12-28T10:12:00.005-05:00

Thanks Joyce for coming up with another batch of great questions!!

1. Share something you loved about your Christmas Day. I Love the fact that we go nowhere Christmas Day. This is something that started Guy was born. I remember as a kid opening presents and then being rushed off to visit this person and then that person all the while my new gifts were home waiting for me. So, when Dear Hubby and I had baby number one, we decided to stay put on Christmas Day. This is not to say that we do not celebrate with family. We do! We do! We just extend the celebration. Christmas Eve we spend with Dear Hubbies family (and there are a lot of them). Then the day after Christmas, my family comes. So, we really get three days of Christmas!!! It's wonderful.

2. You get to put five items in a time capsule to be opened in 100 years, what items would you choose and why? In goes......

One of my family albums for people to see how we lived
My Iphone because it has been something many can not live without.
A real book made from paper!
A pod from my Keurig machine
Season of the Middle:)

3. What do you like on a cracker? I'm not fussy. I will usually dip my cracker into whatever dip is available. Lately, I have been on a humus kick though.

4. Do you make resolutions at the start of a new year? How'd that work out for you this past year? I don't really make resolutions because I have learned that I don't ever stick to them. So why set myself up to be disappointed in myself.

5. What's a song or song lyric you'll associate with 2011?

Sorry, but I'm never good at song lyrics so I will pass on this....

6. How will you ring in the new year?

With the family. Have some special food, treats, and a family game night. I don't think the little one will make it till midnight, but the others will. Then we will all be in bed by 12:15! We lead a very exciting life.

7. What is something you look forward to in 2012?

Disney!!!

8. Insert your own random thought here.

It is amazing how quickly the year really flies by, but we all know that. So what I will share with you (because you know I like to) is my two cakes that I made for Christmas. The Santa one was for Christmas Eve. The tree was for the day after Christmas with my family.

Live, Laugh, Love

and

Scrap it all!!

Do you Facebook?

2011-12-15T10:59:00.000-05:00

My husband doesn't get Facebook.

He thinks it is just a total waste.

My mother stalks Facebook.

She uses it to find out what everyone is up to.

(God help me if she ever were to find this blog:)

I, myself, love it.

Now, don't judge me if you don't facebook.

Do you facebook?

Here is my case why I love it.

In my day to day world,

In my friends day to day world

We are all so busy.

Running our kids from here to there.

When we are not running,

we are usually running around doing the things that need to be done.

Things that are much easier to do when kids are not underfoot.

We do not have a lot of time to sit and chit chat.

Also, I have family through out the country

and

IMO it's a nice way to share things with them or find out what they are up to.

Also, when you do something stupid like put coffee creamer in your son's milk like I did this morning, you can post about it and find out your not alone in the craziness.

So, for me

I am a FB (that's Facebook for those in the know) fanatic.

I have a FB page for my baking

Christine's Cakes and More

I have a FB page for Creative Memories

Christine - Independent Creative Memories Consultant

I have my personal FB

I have reconected with an old friend from college through FB.

I have developed the begining of a relationship with my half sister from my father's second marriage.

I get to see what my family and friends are up to on a daily basis instead of once in a blue moon.

I also agree that sometimes there is some people put things out there better left off of FB.

and

people say things on FB that should be said it person.

Plus

people sometimes there is just too much details

So my question to you....

Do you FB?

Do you like it?

Do you hate it?

Live, Laugh, Love

and

Scrap it all!

It's time for the Hodgepodge!

2011-12-14T09:53:00.000-05:00

1. Do you put Christmas decorations in every room of your house? If not, what rooms do you decorate?

Now that I think of it, I do have decorations in almost every room. In our front room, we have a fake tree for the window. I also have lots of other little decorations in there. Then both boys rooms have small trees with their ornaments that they have made over the years. A few decorations in the kitchen and basement, AKA kids space. Then the great room has our real tree, the decorated mantle, and a whole slew of other decorations. I have A LOT of Christmas stuff and it takes days to put it all out:)

2. If you could visit one of the Nordic countries (Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden) which one would you choose and why?

For someone who never travels, I would take any trip that it offered. If given the choice though, I think I would choose Sweden. Thinking sitting in a ski lodge with some hot cocoa, good chocolate, and amazing views.

3. What does the word faith mean to you?

Faith is actually my middle name. Didn't know that did you? For me faith is about believing in something that you can't see or touch. It is about believing when there is no proof or reason for what you believe. It is about knowing that the impossible is possible and there is no rational reason for believing.

4. You can go back to your childhood for one day...what day and age would you choose?

Hmmmm...........I don't remember how old I was but I remember being at the beach in Wildwood. I remember sitting in the sand with my grandmother and her teaching me and my cousins how to make sandcastles.

5. When did you last have 'punch'? If its not too much trouble share your favorite punch recipe.

I'm not really sure. Although, I love punch and the idea of punch. We never have an occasion to serve it. I have a punch bowl with glasses in the basement that Dear Hubby wants me to donate to the Church's thrift shop. I won't though, because I'm going to use it one of these years. This may be the year. I'm going to find a good kid friendly recipe and use it this year!

6. Do you fill stockings at your house? Are stockings opened before or after the bigger gifts?

I love to fill the stockings for the boys. They get all kind of little treats in them. They usually sit on the top of their gifts. We have no tradition on when they get opened. Usually, they peak inside of them while we are getting cameras ready.

7. What takes your breath away?

Watching my boys doing something that they love. I know this sounds cheesey and a cop out, but it is so true. My childhood was not idea. So to be able to watch my boys experience although not a perfect (since their is no such thing) an ideal childhood, brings me so much joy and happiness. I love to watch them experience childhood the way it was meant to be

8. Insert your own random thought here.

I would like to know why men do not seem to obsess on their weight like women do? The holiday's are upon us which in my house means cookies, cakes, gingerbread houses, home made marshmallows, and lots of other goodies. I love to eat it all as does Dear Hubby. Both of us are not the same size as we were 15 years ago. He doesn't care about his size (or mine for that matter). I would love to be able to eat without the guilt. Why can men do it and most women can't? It's just not fair.

Live, Laugh, Love

and

Scrap it all!

Running as fast as I can

2011-12-14T00:03:00.000-05:00

Every year, I say I am going to be more organized.

Every year, I have good intentions.

Every year, I really, really think I have a handle on things.

Then guess what happens?

I realize that I am behind, my cards aren't written let alone mailed, my gifts still aren't wrapped, I still need to shop, I still need to bake ad a million other things.

How does this happen?

Is it only me that this happens to?

What can I do so it doesn't happen again.

Then I thing to last year at it seems to me that even though Little Guy was only in school three days a week as opposed to five; I still had more time.

I know it seems crazy, but it's true.

Last year I helped out at Little Guy's school,

but only one day a week.

This year I am there three times a week.

I didn't realize how pinched that would make my days.

One of these years I'm going to get it all together.

Maybe.

Then I think......

Does it all really matter?

So what if I don't make my gingerbread houses don't get made?

What would it matter if we don't have a million different cookies?

Yes, the gifts need to be wrapped;

but does it matter if one is left at the store.

I don't want to miss Christmas by spending all my time preparing for it.

I wonder if others feel this way.

It seems like we (the women of the family) run around from Thanksgiving till after New Years driving ourselves insane. When really it just doesn't matter.

On that note, I'm going to take 5 minutes to relax.

Live, Laugh, Love

and

Scrap it all!

Fear Factor Camping and other Holiday tidbits!

2011-12-12T10:51:00.000-05:00

Big Guy went camping this past weekend with his Boy Scout Troupe.

Who knew Boy Scouts were so involved.

It's strange watching Big Guy embark on journeys without us.

I'm not sure that I like it,

but I digress.

Anyway, after some very lovely weather,

Mother Nature must have looked at her calendar and realized it was December

therefore it should be colder in New Jersey.

Right in time for Big Guy to camp.

We are campers, so fear not he, as all Boy Scouts are suposed to be, was prepared. And to be doubley certain; Dear Hubby got him a mummy type sleeping bag designed for the cold.

Big Guy was toasty warm, although he did say there was frost on his sleeping bag.

Inside it though, he felt like he was in his room.

Now this is not the Fear Factor part of his camping trip. Why, I have no idea; but they decided to have menu of Venison Stew, Elk sausage, phython and for desert scoripion lollipops. They called this, "You are what you eat." Not me. I call it fear factor camping. Parents were invited to stop up for dinner since they were camping close to home. I declined and too Middle and Little Guy to Cracker Barrel. Dear Hubby went up. He said it was the best sausage he ever had. Big Guy enjoyed it too as well as the stew. Python apparently is very chewy and not that tasty. You think? I could have told you that without trying it. I'm not sure that anyone really finished their lollipops but did try it. Another YUCK!

Then when all my chickens were home to roost, we got to decorate our tree. Somehow all the ornaments are clumped together. I'm sure there will be a day where my tree is perfect and that will actually be a sad day because that means I don't have little hands to help.

Christmas is in full swing with cookies baking, dough resting in the fridge, and preperations being made for this years Gingerbread Houses. I will post pictures tomorrow of previous years homes.

Live, Laugh, Love

and

Scrap it all!

The Excitement Never Ends!

2011-12-08T06:59:00.001-05:00

When the boys were little, I would take them to see Santa during the day. There was never much of a line and not a long wait. A few years ago, Dear Hubby was home and we all went together. From that year on, we would make the trek on the weekend.

Last year, I will say that it was truly magically. We got there about a half an hour before the big guy was due to arrived. When Santa arrived, he came to the balcony of where we were waiting. He then serenaded us with Christmas Carols and then had the kids join him in singing Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer. The looks on the kids faces was priceless. He not only looked the part, but acted it!

This year, we made the same trek. Unfortunately, the line was much longer by the time we arrived. We jumped on line and waited. Santa arrived. It was a new Santa. I would like to think that last years Santa is working with the Rockets this year as he was that good. This Santa (yes, I know there is only one) still looked the part, but he didn't seem as jolly. He smiled and waved, but didn't really interact with the kids. There was no magically sing along which disappointing for me, but the kids didn't seem to mind. Then we waited and waited and waited. Almost two hours we waited.

Why it took so long?

The elves were not moving the line smoothly.
They only had one computer to take the pictures, show the pictures, and then print the pictures.
People were acting like they were at a professional photographer for family portraits! These pictures only cost $24 people. If you want a professional Christmas portrait, get a professional photographer!!!!!!! You get what you get! Case in point:
People bringing their own cameras (yes, I had my cell phone camera, but not for this) and then using it like their child was the only one in the mall. Finally, they cracked down on that when it appears the head elf got there.

Here is a perfect example of a trip to Santa Picture. I love this one!

Now, it may seem like I am dissing the tradition of waiting in line for seeing Santa. I am not and we will more than likely do it again next year:) It is part of the tradition of Christmas so perfectly shown in one of my favorite Christmas movies, "A Christmas Story." I will say though that I did feel bad for the kids (all of them, not just mine). When we got there, they were all so excited and it just escalated when the Big Guy arrived. But by the end, they looked like this:

Then they got to the Big Guy and looked like this:

All's well that ends well:)

Live, Laugh, Love

and

Scrap it all!

A Hodgepodge kind of Day

2011-12-07T07:37:00.001-05:00

1. Will you be hosting any house guests between now and the end of December? Does that thought make you happy or crazy? Do you do anything special for your guests to make them feel at home? How long should a house guest stay? We do not host any house guests over the holidays. We do entertain, but no one that needs to sleep over. Although, sometimes the boys cousins stay over which is always a fun night for the kids.

2. Walter Elias Disney was born this week (December 5) back in 1905 ...what's your all time favorite Disney movie? Here's a list in case you're struggling...and yes, you have to pick one. Wow, that is quite the list. I really do enjoy the Disney movies. They make them now that even as an adult you enjoy watching them. I love all the Toy Story movies and Pooh Bear one's too. I think I have to admit that my favorite is "The Fox and the Hound." I love that story. The story of friendship is always a good one. Plus the fox is so darn cute.

3. What was the last thing you purchased that you realized was a mistake after the fact? Hmmmm.....I guess it would be buying something for Little Guy for Christmas. Coming home from the store, showing Dear Hubby, and then him reminding me that I just ordered same item form Amazon the day before. Ooops. At least the online purchase was cheaper and it will be easy to return.

4. What percentage of your Christmas shopping is done online? Let's just say that I see a man in a brown uniform and truck several times a week! It is so easy to do things online, many times cheaper, lots of free shipping, and they bring it to my door!! Therefore, I would say that at least 85% of my shopping is done online. It's a beautiful thing.

5. Amaryllis-snowdrop-poinsettia...your favorite winter blossom? I love the poinsettia.

6. What is one thing on your personal Christmas wish list? I think we all want peace on earth so let's make this answer an actual item. Do I have to just pick one?!?!? I have a list a mile long of baking and scrapbooking stuff. Would love to get the Kindle Fire, a new laptop, some jewelry.......Am I getting any of this??? I doubt it as Dear Hubby and I decided that our old dinosaur of a computer that is actually 11 years old needs to be put to rest. New computers (at least good ones) apparently do not come cheap, so that is our Christmas. Don't cry for me as it's all good and I'm really not wanting for anything.

7. If you could only use one word today what would it be? Tired! First I fell asleep on the couch. Then I woke up at 1:00. There was a show on TV that caught my eye. So I stayed up till 2:00 to watch. Then Little Guy woke up. Very restless...... Very Tired..... Good Times, good times.....Tired, coffee, tired, coffee, sleep......maybe tonight.

8. Insert your own random thought here. Big Guy is going camping again for Boy Scouts. I am very impressed with how much these boys do. This time they are going hiking and camping close to home. They invited parents to come for dinner. Normally, I would jump at the chance to go. I declined, but Dear Hubby is going. The reason I am not going is because the theme of this trip is "you are what you eat." To me it is a Fear Factor camping trip as the menu is turtle, elk, venison, turtle, Python, scorpion lollipops, and candid ants. Sounds yummy, doesn't it. I really hope that they bring some pepto with them:) Now, I do know venison and elk is the staple for some lumberjacks, but around here not so much. I'll let you know how it turns out. ( Is it bad that while Dear Hubby and Big Guy are eating such a lovely meal, I am thinking of taking the other two out to Cracker Barrel?)

Live, Laugh, Love

and

Scrap it all!

Still Thankfull after all these years

2011-12-01T16:50:00.001-05:00

This year was my Grammy's last Thanksgiving.

Actually, the family joke was that it was Grammy's 3rd last Thanksgiving.

Although, this year it might be true.

She's a tough old lady, but I think it's getting bad.

When Dear Hubby and I picked her up,

She didn't know him.

She kept asking if the kids were in the car.

For those who travel with children,

you know that as hard as you try;

it's hard to forget that they are in the car.

Then when we got to my mother's house,

she was uncertain whose house we were at or why we were there.

Even with all of that,

It was nice to have her there.

After spending half a day with my grandmother,

I realize how hard getting old is for everyone.

But that's just what life is all about.

Live, Laugh, Love

and

Scrap it all!

Goodbye Thanksgiving, Hello to the Rush of Christmas

2011-11-30T08:34:00.001-05:00

I have to say I was a mess last week.

Not sure why, because Dear Hubby was home from work and I did have an extra pair of hands to help with the kids.

But I was a mess.

First of all Middle Guy had a half day all week due to teacher conferences

and

the other two boys had half days on Wednesday.

Little Guy's half day consisted of him being at school all of an hour and a half.

Then, since, Dear Hubby was home we did some shopping, errands, and breakfasts together.

Lovely, but that didn't stop everything else that I normally do during the day from getting done.

Plus, I was making not one but two cakes for Thanksgiving.

Not your everyday cakes either mind you.

Cakes that require lots of time and preparation.

Case in point...

Fall themed cake requested by mom.

Then there was the turkey cake requested by my sister.

Since she traveled all the way from Florida with her family and this would be the first time we were with them for Thanksgiving in 7 years, she got her cake.

Then on top of that there is the special Mimi bread that must be made for every holiday. It is to die for and if you eat to much of it, your arteries will surely clog. The recipe is an old church recipe that makes 9 loaves of bread. But in this recipe, there is a pound of LARD, a pound of BUTTER, 6 eggs, and other very healthy things:) But it is the BEST bread you will ever have. We figure since we literally only eat this bread 3 times a year it's ok.

Do you think it is?

So, last week in the ciaos,

I was a mess.

I forgot to take Middle Guy to his reading class.

In my defense, my sister's family stopped by unexpectedly on their way home from the city.

I realized at 6:10 and his class started at 5:30.

Ooops.

Then the following day, I totally spaced on Middle Guy's guitar lessons.

Ooops.

So, I am happy the kids are back in their routine this week.

Because that means I'm back on my routine:)

Did you get messed up with the short week last week?

Or am I the only one loosing my mind?

And it's only just beginning with Christmas Rush now picking up.

Oh my, oh my.

There is more to the Thanksgiving but I think this is long enough today.

Stay tuned...

Live, Laugh, Love

and

Scrap it all!

Look what I got!

2011-11-21T22:55:00.001-05:00

Today I am thankful that Big Guy (AKA as my first born son for those not in the know) caught a fish on his fishing trip. He went with his Dad (AKA Dear Hubby) for a Boy Scout Deep See Fishing Trip. As you can tell it was successful! Dear Hubby hooked the fish and gave the pole to Big Guy to reel in. In my opinion, that makes it a team effort.

Another reason to be thankful is that neither Dear Hubby or Big Guy got sick as some of the boys and other Dad's did!

Live, Laugh, Love

and

Scrap it all!

Matthew 4:19
And he said to them, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.”

Is it time for a Vacation Yet?

2011-11-19T23:54:00.001-05:00

After a crazy busy day like today,

which entailed the following:

2 soccer games
2 turkeys needed to be purchased and delivered to local Food Bank
2 separete routes to pick up food for the cub/boy scout food drive
1 son needed to be taken and picked up at local recycling center for service duty for Boy
1 birthday party for a friend of little guy's. We almost didn't make this one as I totally spaced out on it, even though it was on my calendar. I only remembered because someone asked about it at soccer giving me just enough time (barely) to pick up a card at grocery store. There was no gift, just straight up cash for birthday boy. Ooops.
Swim night at the local YMCA for Cub Scouts requiring me to put on a bathing suit in front of parents who didn't have to get into the pool. The downside of being a den leader....

So after all this craziness, I am thankful for the time in the summer that is carved away for just the family. Time spent in a location with no cell reception, activities (unless you count sitting by a lake reading tiresome) or deadlines. A time, when your only job is to have a good time and spend your days with family.....

Doesn't it just make you want to get away from it all?

Live, Laugh, Love

and

Scrap it all!

I am Thankful, I am Thankful

2011-11-18T19:42:00.001-05:00

I am Thankful.
I really, really am.
I just dropped the ball.
So, I will make up for what I've missed.

1.   I am Thankful this project that I've been working on is done!   It has consumed me - totally.   I was recently contacted by a woman who wanted a scrapbook for her daughters wedding shower.   The only problem is that she needed it in less than a month.   Therefore, it seemed like every waking hour that I was "free" was spent on this book.    Free meaning like the middle of the night till 2 and 3 in the morning.

2.   I am Thankful that my sister and her family are coming home for Thanksgiving!   Yeah, I know they call Florida a home, but this is really their home:)

3. I am Thankful that I have a hobby that I enjoy and can also make some money from.   Here is a page I did for the album I just finished.

4. I am Thankful that I have a second hobby that I get to engage in that brings joy to me and others. It's another creative outlet for me:)

5.   I am Thankful for Hot Chocolate - Simple but I love it.   Now that there is a nip in the air, I do enjoy a cup in the evening once the kids go to bed.   Once Thanksgiving is over, I plan on making my homemade marshmallows to make it even better!

6. I am Thankful for the weekend!   It is going to be a busy one, but it's going to be good one anyway.

7.   I am Thankful that I have In-laws that not only do I get along with, but who are as the saying goes "the salt of the earth."

8.   I am Thankful for my home.   It may not be the biggest on my block, but it's all ours (almost).

Whew!

I didn't think that I would be able to catch up,

but I did.

Live, Laugh, Love

and

Scrap it all!

A Thankful Meet Me on Monday!

2011-11-14T01:04:00.001-05:00

I am thankful for music today.

It calms me.

It motivates me.

It inspires me.

I wish I was talented in music,

sadly I am not.

If I ever want to annoy my Dear Hubby,

I sing.

Works like a charm:)

I just enjoy music:)

Psalm 27:5-6 "For in the day of trouble he will keep me safe in his dwelling; he will hide me in the shelter of His tabernacle and set me high upon a rock. Then my head will be exalted above the enemies who surround me; at His tabernacle will I sacrifice with shouts of joy; I will sing and make music to the Lord."

Blogging is a funny thing...we tell our most intimate thoughts for all to read and yet most of the time I find myself sitting and wondering, "who is this person!?" I know them...but yet I don't know them! I want to know who the person is behind all those words so I thought of a great way for all of us to "meet" each other!

Every Sunday Never Growing Old will post five get to know you questions that you can copy and paste into your own Monday post and we can all learn a little more about each and every one of us!!

Questions:

1. Does your family/friends know about your blog?

No, No, No and in case you missed it

NO!

I do have a few VERY close friends and one sister who know about it.

That being said, no one reads it that I see in the "real" world.

I kind of like t that way:)

Strange, I know.

Especially, because I do not say things on this here blog that I would not say out loud.

Go figure.

2. What is your favorite card game?

Gin Rummy.

Want to play?

It might be because I have fond memories of going to my "Aunt Peggy's" house when I was little.

We would make fudge and play cards all night.

I think she may have let me win now that I think of it:)

3. What do you wear to bed?

Well now, we are getting personal,

but if you must know

a fabulously unflattering mom PJ's

Tshirt and pajama bottoms.

4. What is your favorite kind of French Fry?

There is no such thing as a bad french fry!

I do love boardwalk fries with vinegar.

YUMMY!

5. What is your usual bed time?

Depends whats going on.

Many times I fall asleep watching tv.

Only to wake up mid night having to do all my last minute chores (dishwasher, laundry, ect).

Recently, though I have been staying up to well past 2:00 am.

Closer to 3:00 actually.

This is only because I have way to much on my plate right now.

My own fault, but this is a temporary thing and that is what is getting me through.

That being said,

Break time over.

Live, Laugh, Love

and

Scrap it all!

Another Day to Give Thanks!

2011-11-14T00:49:00.001-05:00

Today I am thankful for my Faith.

It is a comforting feeling to know that no matter what I am not in this alone.

That all I do is in His hands

and

that I am loved.

Live, Laugh, Love

and

Scrap it all!

2 Corinthians 5:7 NIV We live by faith, not by sight.

Everybody is ready for the Weekend!

2011-11-12T17:45:00.001-05:00

Today I am Thankful for the weekend!

Although, we had to get up very early for an 8:00 AM soccer game.

Then had a list a mile long on chores that needed to be done.

I'm still very thankful for the weekend.

I'm off to take Middle and Little Guy to the movies

while Daddy watches Harry Potter with Big Guy.

Live, Laugh, Love

and

Scrap it all!

Exodus 33:14
“My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.”

2011-11-10T23:57:00.001-05:00

On this Veterans Day, It is hard not to realize how Thankful I am for those that choose of their own free will to put their life on the line for our country. This is not a slogan. This is the reality for our troops. They are truly brave men and woman who deserve our gratitude for the things they do, so that we can be safe.

And no matter what side of the political line you sit on or your thoughts on the role our military is playing in the world, these men and woman are doing their duty.   They are not the policy makers.   They are the ones who will fight the fight when asked to do so by their country.   Without fail, they will be there when called upon.    I will say that I am liberal on many things, but not this.   Our soldiers past and present deserve our gratitude, honor, and support.   If you do not like the policies, take it up with the policy makers and continue to support our troops.

Live, Laugh, Love
and
Scrap it all!

I will say of the Lord. He is my refuge and my fortress: In Him
       will I trust."
                                                                                    - Psalm 91:2   ____________________________________________________________

2011-11-10T08:00:00.000-05:00

Not your normal Thankful Post, but this is what I'm truly Thankful for today.

Today I am Thankful that Penn State fired both their President and Football coach.

It is a start.

I find what they did is unexcusable.

How do you walk away and close your eyes when you know that children are being hurt? What type of decent human being can do that? None that I know of. I know they did not commit these crimes, but they are culpable in what happened AFTER they knew this man was hurting children. I as a survivor of abuse as a child (which is another reason to be thankful) can not stomach the people who are making excuses for this man. He chose football and image of protecting children.

Period.

There is is no excuse for a GROWN man to not know how to handle this situation.

Chrildren are being abused.

You don't hold meeting about it.

You don't pretend it never occured.

You don't continue to befriend the monster.

You protect the children.

You go to the police.

and

By doing that you would have come off a hero

not a pathetic man who should have known better.

I know people are standing by this man and his actions.

I urge them to look at the big picture.

He is a man who wanted to be the "moral compass" for his football players.

Concidering what has come to light that is a joke.

He appears to be a man without his own moral compass

and

the bottom line is

Foootball is a game people.

It is not life or death,

but

what he allowed to happen

can be life or death to some.

Literally.

Sorry this is not a happy go lucky Thankful Post today.

But when I turn on the news and see the number of people who are standing by this man's actions, I am horrified.

I can not believe that they do not see the big picture.

They see football trophies

and

it makes me very sad.

I will have a more uplifting post tomorrow as I am taking the children and having some fun today as they have no school today.

Promise.

Matthew 19:14

Jesus said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these."

My Thankful Hodgepodge!

2011-11-09T01:31:00.000-05:00

As I sit here and type this post at one in the morning,

I realize that what I will be most thankful after a few hours of sleep

waking up with the children

preparing them for school

taking them to school

and

going off to teach a mommy and me gymnastics class,

I will be most thankful for my coffee this morning!

I, like my mother before me, and her mother before her

drink large amounts of coffee.

From morning till late afternoon,

be it hot, iced, or somewhere in between;

you can bet I will have some type of coffee drink in my hand.

Hmmmm,

Wonder why?

Teach your children to choose the right path, and when they are older, they will remain upon it. ~ Proverbs 22:6

Now, I am onto the Hodgepodge.
What is the Hodgepodge you wonder......Well every week, JoyceFrom this Side of the Pond comes up with some fun questions. Fill in the blanks. Post. and Join in the Fun!

1. Of all the tools and gadgets you own which do you most enjoy using?
Probably my Kitchen Aid. Because if that baby is cranking that usually means that some tasty, hopefully good looking treat will follow! I should be Italian as I do love to feed people (but just treats!).

2. When (if ever) is impatience a virtue?

Well I hope always as I am not the most patient person!

3. What temperature do you keep your thermostat set to in winter? Do you have another way to heat your house besides a furnace of some type?

We keep our thermostat set at a balmy 68 degrees in the winter. I often say to my Dear Hubby, "throw another coal on the fire" in jest (partly). It actually isn't a bad temperature to keep the house, but I may turn it up for company as not everyone else enjoys that setting. We do have a wonderful fireplace that does not heat the house, but can get our main living room up to high 70's.

4. Do/did you have a close relationship with any of your grandparents?

My Grandmother!

Although, now she is in her late 80's and is often confused. It is not the same, but I have so many wonderful memories and she has taught me to be a strong independent woman!

5. When did you last have a family portrait taken?

For our Church directory three years ago. We are not formal people and I do have many family pictures, but not portraits.

6. What does the word patriotism mean to you?

Having pride in your country and willing to stand up for it.

7. Do you like to play cards and if so, what's your favorite card game?

I can take a card game or leave it. Although now that the boys are older, I have enjoyed teaching them how to play Rummy 500. Fun!

8. Insert your own random thought here.

My plate is so full right now, I am going crazy. I won't bore you with my to-do list as I'm sure yours is equally as long. I am getting into panic mode thinking about my list and realizing that once I reach my deadlines, it is going to be time to start the Christmas Rush. My, oh my....

Live, Laugh, Love

and

Scrap it all!

The Love of a Dog!

2011-11-08T06:57:00.001-05:00

Today I would like to say that I am Thankful for my pets.

I have had pets all my life.

Usually dogs.

Nothing against cats,

but I will admit that I am a dog person.

My first dog was a poodle named Adam.

Don't know who named him as I was little.

Then I had a mutt named bootsie.

I came up with that name as he had the cutest white "boots" on his paws.

Then Pepper, a minature snauzer who only loved me.

I got him when I was 13 and he died when I was 26.

I have said that he saved my life.

Really on more than one occasion.

When I was young and going through a lot, he was my companion and friend.

It was thoughts of who would take care of him if I was gone that kept me going.

Sad, but true.

And then came

Simba and Nala.
Our majestic labs.

I really do believe that God gives us animals for a reason.

So today I am thankful for all of the precious animals that have come into my life,
the companionship,
the love,
and
all the other feelings you get from having a do as a friend.

Live, Laugh, Love

and

Scrap it all!

"Friends always show their love. What are brothers for if not to share troubles?"- Proverbs 17:17

Another Reason to be Thankful!

2011-11-07T14:33:00.002-05:00

Today I am thankful for my sisters.

I have three sisters.

Two of them I am very close to.

(yes this is from the 80's)

Two of them I grew up with.

Although, I was eleven when one of them was born.

I am thankful for them.

The friendships that we share.

The secrets that we share.

There is something to be said about family ties that bind you

My third sister was born when I was a senior in High School to my father and step-mother whom I really didn't have much contact with at the time. I have connected with this sister online and through texts. We are slowly building a relationship. I am thankful for that as well.

Live, Laugh, Love

and

Scrap it all!

Galatians 6:18

¹⁸ The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit, brothers and sisters. Amen.

2011-11-06T13:58:00.000-05:00

Today I am thankful for my friends!

Some friends have come and gone, but always in my life when I needed them.

I have been blessed to have many of these types of friends in my life.

But I am most appreciative of the friends that have gone the distance.

Those that have been there through thick and thin.

Those that have stood the test of time.

Those that you may not speak to for a long time,

but when you do it's like no time has passed!

Live, Laugh, Love

and

Scrap it all!

Proverbs 18:24)

Some friendships do not last, but some friends are more loyal than brothers."

Thankfull Challenge Day 5

2011-11-05T09:07:00.002-04:00

Today is an easy one.

I am thankful for being a mom to

Three amazing, fun, and different children I could have ever been graced with.

When I was pregnant with my first child,

I could not believe the wonder of creating the life growing inside of me.

Now that he and his brothers are here,

I can not believe the wonder of watching them grow.

They all have their own distinct personalities and couldn't be more different.

They are also still so much the same.

It is an amazing thing.

It is a gift to be able to call myself their mother

and

I am further blessed that I am able to be a stay at home mom to them.

Live, Laugh, Love

and

Scrap it all!

Proverbs 31:2 8Her children rise up and call her blessed; Her husband also, and he praises her.

Follow Friday Four Fill in Fun

2011-11-04T09:27:00.001-04:00

I know that I already posted today, but I really loved today's Friday Four Fill in Questions, so I wanted to play too:)

Each week, Feeling Beachie lists four statements with a blank to fill in.   Hence the name Four Fill in Fun! If you want to join the fun and come up with four fill in’s of your own, please email them to feelingbeachie@gmail.com. If she uses them, you can co-host the hop.

This week’s co-host is Irene from the Soap Box. She came up with the last two statements!

This week’s statements:
1.       I have never been to Washington, DC, but it is on my list of places I would like to visit.
2.       I hate to admit it, but sometimes I tend to be a b*tch.   I really try to keep it in check, but sometimes the inner one comes out.
3.       If I didn’t have my iphone I’d be completely lost. I haven't even had it a year, but don't know how I survived so long without it.   It has all my contacts, my calendars, to do lists, email, my kindle, and everything else that I know "need."
4.       Seeing my kids tucked into their beds sleeping is always the best feeling at the end of the day. I love it for not just how peaceful and angelic they look at this time of day, but that usually means that I get to take a short break!

Live, Laugh, love

and

Scrap it all!

Another Reason to be Thankful!

2011-11-04T06:34:00.000-04:00

Today, I am thankful for my wonderful Dear Hubby!

We have been together for 13 years now, married for 11.

I will admit that we both have changed over our time together and that neither of us look the same either. The beauty is that it really doesn't matter as we have changed and grown together. We went through a lot to get where we are today and it has been worth every step we have taken. What has also grown is our devotion and dedication to each other and to this wonderful family that we have created. We balance each other too as he is the serious, take charge numbers man and I am so not that precise:)

Live, Laugh, Love

and

Scrap it all!

Ecclesiastes 4:9-12

Two are better than one,
because they have a good return for their work:
If one falls down,
his friend can help him up.
But pity the man who falls
and has no one to help him up!
Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm.
But how can one keep warm alone?
Though one may be overpowered,
two can defend themselves.
A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.

Graditude Challenge

2011-11-03T07:56:00.000-04:00

As Thanksgiving is approaching, I thought it only appropriate to take some time to reflect on the things that I am thankful for.

Today I am Thankful for Electricity and Heat!

After having my area hit with a freak early snowstorm which brought down many large branches and wires leaving us without power and heat for 2 days, I am very Thankful for it.    We are also extremely blessed because there are still those in my area without power.

There is something to be said for being able to walk into a room, flip a switch and have lights turn on.    I can not tell you how many times, I tried to turn on the lights and nothing. It was very exciting when the power came on at 11:58 Sunday night! Somehow it made sleeping that much better.

We were also very blessed to have a wood burning fireplace which we used to heat our as we call it "Big Room." We were able to keep it at a good temperature during the day. The night was a little different as Dear Hubby and I had to stoke the fire to keep the room warm enough for the boys at night. Speaking of nights - 5 people on a couch and loveseat does not equal a good night sleep for adults even if 4 of the seats recline. Somehow the kids managed to sleep like logs, but not Dear Hubby and I. That may have been why as soon as the power came back on and we were sure the heat was working, we (as Big Guy AKA my oldest son) "ditched" them.    We went back to our temprapedic mattress and managed to sleep peacefully even while the room warmed up.

Live, Laugh, Love

and

Scrap it all!

1 Thessalonians 5:16 - Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

Meet Me on Monday!

2011-10-24T07:22:00.000-04:00

Questions:

1. My favorite kind of animal is __I need to break this into two types of animals.   My favorite domestic animal is by far the dog.   Now nothing against Cat People, but I'm a dog person.   There is no more loyal, fun, and loving friend to have than a dog. Now my favorite wild animal is the Polar Bear.   Although they are not cuddly, they certainly have that cute and cuddly appearance.    I love to watch about them on Discovery especially with the Mama Bear's.
2. Do you like your handwriting? Not at all!   I have very messy handwriting.   I would love to have "teacher handwriting" but I don't. When I first started scrapbooking, I wouldn't even journal in my kids albums because I thought it ruined the page.   I got over that though when someone pointed out that when my kids get older they will want those personal things in there.
3. What is the last movie you saw? At the movies ---- I'm a mom of three, so the last movie theater movie was Kung Fu Panda 2 over the summer.   I know super duper exciting:)
4. Do you buy things on eBay? I have but not often.   I usually buy things for the boys birthday parties there.
5. What did you have for lunch yesterday? I had a Wendy's Baja salad.   Yummy!
---------------------------------------------------------------

Live, Laugh, Love

and

Scrap it all!

Stepping into it....

2011-10-21T07:05:00.001-04:00

Middle Guy is in 4th Grade this year.

His last year before he is off to Middle School.

Then I will have two in Middle School,

while Little Guy will be starting Kindergarden.

Anywho...

4th Grade is a big year for Middle Guy

The PTA does a lot of really fun things for and with the 4th graders.

It takes a lot of volunteers to accomplish what needs to be accomplished.

I was on the fence if I wanted to be one of those worker bees.

Especially a worker bee leading a big project.

It's not that I don't want to help.

It's not that I don't love the things that they do.

But, I really can't stand the way sometimes these things get done.

Not the hard work.

That doesn't bother me.

It's the Harper Valley PTA part that bothers me.

(Am I the only one who remembers that song/tv show?)

If you can't tell from my blog,

I have a low tollorance for BS.

I have been known to call a spade a spade

but not behind anyone's back:)

Any who...

They wanted me to help with the school memory book

AKA yearbook.

Why they think I would know how to make a memory book is beyond me? LOL

Ok, so I think the actual making of the book will be fun,

But I am a little worried about leading up to it, editing, ect, ect.

But, I put my Big Girl Panties on.

Ever now and then you must pull them out of the drawer.

I threw my name into the hat

and

let the games begin.

Live, Laugh, Love

and

Scrap it all!!

Wednesday Hodgpodge

2011-10-19T00:09:00.000-04:00

Wednesday's Hodgepodge and Other Thoughts

It's Wednesday and thanks to Joyce From This Side of the Pond that means it's time for the Hodgepodge. Anyone can play along! Just click on the Button above to jump on in.

1. How do you typically react in a sudden, extreme, pressure-filled crisis? Would we want you nearby in an emergency? I think that I am an asset in a crisis situation. I don't usually freak out until after the crisis has passed. I am used to being the anchor in the storm, so hang on tight and we will ride it out together.

2. Caramel apple-caramel sundae-caramel corn-caramel macchiato...of the four, which carmel treat would you choose? I'm sorry, but I can't answer this one. I have a REAL weakness for caramel. I love, love, love to have apples with caramel dip for snacks at night! And who doesn't love the tasty mixture of soft vanilla ice cream topped with caramel sauce? Carmel corn - thumbs up! And no matter what flavor (but especially this one), a macchiato is just irresistible.

3. Is there such a thing as destiny? Explain.

Yes and no.

Now, I love the movie Serendipity because it does cover this question, but I'm not sure if in real life it would have had the happy ever after ending that it did in the movie. Have you seen this movie? I think though like in life what you get out of this movie is that we each create our own destiny with our actions. The opportunities our there but we need to take them.

4. What's your favorite piece of furniture? I'm referring to something currently in your possession as opposed to something on your wish list. I think that would have to be my sofa. We, as a family, can all sit on it comfortably to watch movies together. 5 seats recline (just the right amount) and I like the way it fits in the room.

5. Wednesday night marks the start of the 2011 Baseball World Series. Did you know? Do you care? Will you be watching? Ever been to a professional baseball game? If you're not an American do you find the title 'World Series' annoying or amusing? Thanks for keeping me in the loop. I knew it was coming, but since Dear Hubby's Yankees didn't make it this far, I'm no longer in the know. And the only reason I would know otherwise is because he would have the game on.

6. A sound that takes me back to my childhood is_The Carpenter's Christmas Album. Yes, I know corny, but I love it. I remember my mom playing it while decorating the house, making cookies, Christmas day. I remember my sisters and I putting on little routines to it. Good times. Good times.

7. On average, once you've linked your hodgepodge post to mine how many other participant blogs do you visit? Do you ever come back to the Hodgepodge later in the day or even the day after to read posts? I pop around depending on my schedule. I'm usually a late linker (although this week I'm on the ball), so I don't need to pop back usually.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

I just finished reading the Jacee Dugard book A Stolen Life. Can I just say that she is an amazing person? I do recommend this book to everyone. Some parts are hard to read and she does take pity on her readers not to torment us with everything that she suffered. That being said, I still cried for her stolen childhood and the pain/loneliness that she endured. The amazing thing about her is that she is even able to function, let alone have come out of the craziness whole. You realize that yes, you may have had hardships in your life but the way you deal with these things is up to you. She held onto her true self and that comes through.

One of the other things that stayed with me is how the morning that she was taken her mother forgot to kiss her goodbye before going to work. I'm sure that her mother suffered knowing that she didn't do this. So if there is one lesson here (even if you don't read her book), please make sure to always express your love to your loved ones while you can. You never know what tomorrow may bring and don't always assume that you can say it to them later.

Live, Laugh, Love

and

Scrap it all!

No one said it would be easy.....

2011-10-18T19:35:00.000-04:00

Parenting is hard.

There is no manual.

And if there was it would need to be different for each child and each family.

That being said, I find that parenting is even harder when you have families with children

the same age,

grade level, and sex

living next to each other with parents with completely different parenting styles.

These are the boys who tell my Middle Guy that I am the

mean Mommy.

Apparently, I am also the overprotective Mommy too.

Maybe, I am.

Maybe, I'm not.

But, please stop talking nasty to my son about me.

Shame, shame, shame.

These boys also come from different families.

One is from a "latchkey family."

I get that and he is actually a nice boy.

The other boy is actual nice too.

But put boy 1 and boy 2 together and somehow all the niceness disapates.

Hmmm....

Anyway, I feel bad for Middle Guy.

These boys are not in his group of "hangout" friends

(as the term play date is no longer used);

but these boys are on the block.

Once can not always have a scheduled friend to come over

and

sometimes, you just need to go with the flow.

I wish we could swim in another lake sometimes though....

Live, Laugh, Love

and

Scrap it all!

Doctor Doctor Give me the News....

2011-10-17T16:18:00.000-04:00

Little Guy is not such a little guy anymore.

He's 5 now.

Practically an old man now.

Ok, not that bad, but he probably thinks he's 8 thanks to his older brothers.

But that is for a different post.

Today, Little Guy went for his 5 year check up.

This means shots.

Three shots actually:(

I felt bad for Little Guy.

I have to say that he was awesome during his checkup.

One never can be too sure

and

I'm sure they have it marked in his chart that he can be "difficult."

We go to a very busy office and the nurse actually remembers him.

Really not a good thing.

Kind of like the principle knowing your name.

Anywho....

He was awesome today.

Stepped on the scale when asked.

Sat for his blood pressure and such.

No wrestling required for his three shots.

He didn't even cry till it was all over.

I was so proud of the way he acted.

Up until on the way out, he gave me a dirty look and said,

"This is all your fault!"

Foot stomping.

I still took pity on his tear streaked face.

I asked him if there was anything I could get him to make him feel better.

I was thinking a doughnut or maybe some chocolate.

That would work for me.

So Little Guy looks at me and says,

"I want a real dog! I want a Pug!"

I proceed to explain that we can't get a dog.

He begins to cry again how the dog is the only thing that will make it all better. He will let it sleep on the floor by his bed. He even promises that he will walk the dog. Water the dog and even train the dog.

Where does he get this from?

Luckily, once we got home he forgot about the dog that many tears were shed over.

And that my friends is the life of a five year old.

Live, Laugh, Love

and

Scrap it all!

Mean Mom? Maybe!

2011-10-14T09:57:00.007-04:00

Besides my own two boys, I take three other boys to school in the morning. Some mornings I feel like the pied piper carting all these boys around, but it seems to work for us. The other night at dinner, my Middle Guy said that one of the other boys said I was mean. Now, I don't think I'm mean, but it does get one thinking..

What I ended up thinking is "it's not me, it's them."

Why you ask?

I know you did, didn't you?

Well the reason it's them, is because I don't think I'm a mean mom.

I think the difference is that I'm an old school Mom.

What's an old school Mom?

Me!

What happened to the days where children were taught to respect those older than them.

I refuse to say elders, because although the store clerks call me Mam, I am not an elder:)

Anywho, I think that we have gotten so far over from the way we were raised (or at least me), that kids start to think they are mini adults. That they actually get to have a say in how things get done and such. Now, I'm not saying we should not let children express their ideas, but they need to know that the adult is the person in charge and what the adult says goes.

I know this may sound like I am a drill seargent. I am not!! At least I don't think that I am, but I have rules in my house. Easy rules in my opinion - Treat others with respect, no jumping on my furniture, no name calling, everyone gets to play, ect, ect. Now if you don't do these things, I will call you on it and expect you to follow these rules. If this makes me mean, so be it!! Because in my opinion, we do our children a disservice by not teaching them the way to treat people.

Live, Laugh, Love

and

Scrap it all!

What have you heard lately?

2011-10-03T16:57:00.000-04:00

To understand my post today, you need to "hear" a snippet of a conversation I heard while waiting in line at the grocery store. Don't judge me, you know you've done it too! Anyway, here is the snippet that I heard.

Shopper Mom 1 - "You know it's just been so crazy."

Shopper Mom 2 - "I know, the kids have been driving me nuts too."

Shopper Mom 1 - "I just need a break!"

Shopper Mom 2 - "Well at least I get a break every other weekend."

This concludes my eavesdropping,

I mean part of the conversation that I heard.

It did get me thinking which is a scary thing...

Now, I realize that divorce is hard.

I come from a "broken" home.

I get it.

From the kid side of things.

I further realize that being a full time single parent is hard.

I know that when it Dear Hubby's busy time at work,

I am a crazy person.

By the end of the day,

I am spent.

Plus I don't work outside the home like many single parents.

So, this by no means is saying that single parents have it easy.

Please don't think I am saying that at all.

BUT

The thought of having even one weekend off every six months is appealing to me.

Now, I love my kids.

Please don't get me wrong

(and I know they will be gone before I'm ready)

But

I would love a weekend off!

I don't know what I would do with myself.

Time to myself

Time to remember that I am a person and not just a mother.

One of the things that I tell Dear Hubby is

"You married an intelligent woman,

I'm just not sure where she went."

Maybe, I could redescover her.

Even without a weekend off,

I'm trying.

I've started doing things just for me!

Yeah me!!!

I've been running on the treadmill again.

Ok, that's not super exciting, but still it's time to myself.

I've been wearing eye shadow again.

Wearing earings again.

I even bought some new shoes!

Trying to get out of my sneakers.

Just trying to remember that I was a person before a Mom:)

How do you find balance?

Live, Laugh, Love

and

Scrap it all!

Wednesday's Hodgepodge and Other Thoughts

2011-09-28T09:36:00.001-04:00

It's Wednesday and thanks to Joyce From This Side of the Pond that means it's time for the Hodgepodge. Anyone can play along! Just click on the Button Bellow to jump on in.

Before we begin, for those who read yesterday's post

(that would be you Joyce:),

I just wanted to say that Day 2 of my lifestyle change is going good!

No not that kind of lifestyle change.

Not that there's anything wrong with that!

Name the show that is from if you can...

No, my lifestyle change to hopefully no longer have people think I'm expecting.

Today, I did shoot myself in the foot by proving that I can get up, have the kids get ready for school, run 20 minutes on the treadmill, shower and yet still have time to blog all before 8:00 AM. Now, you may ask me, "Why is that shooting yourself in the foot?"

You did ask, didn't you?

Anyway, I shot myself in the foot because I have now removed all the excuses from why I can't exercises.

Sometimes, it's good to have an excuse.

But since I blew that by being so good, I'm going to try to run with it.

Pun intended

Lastly, for you runners out there don't make me feel bad, but I was impressed with myself.

I did a 20 minute mile:)

For someone whose major exercises has been lifting sugar to make cakes, I feel pretty good about this:)

Now onto your regularly scheduled Hodgepodge

1. It is officially fall here in North America...I realize not everyone who participates in the Hodgepodge lives in North America, but if you do what's your favorite memory of Summer 2011? If you're not in North America, what's your favorite memory of the season just ending on your side of the world?

Hmmm, good one. I guess my favorite memory is being on the lake in Vermont. It is such a magical time for the family and even though it's camping - It's still the best part of my summer.

2. Your favorite nut? You know I mean the edible kind, right?

I love cashews, but I really can't decide therefore I always by the mixed nut variety.

3. What activity puts your sense of balance to the test?

Yoga.

I have tried it and I do enjoy it,

but some of those poses make me want to fall over.

4. How would you describe your sense of humor?

Dear Hubby might on days say that I don't have a sense of humor, but that's only because ours are different. I'm not sure how I would describe mine. I don't find things funny that are demoralizing to anyone and hate April Fools Day. These things may be because as the fat kid in school, I was often on the receiving end. Don't feel bad for me as it made me who I am today. So my sense of humor would be on the wittier side, but I do think that humor can be found in any situation. If you can't laugh at yourself, then you take life too seriously.

5. September 28th is National Ask a Stupid Question Day...what's your stupid question?

There is really a National Day for this.....Hmmmm, I am drawing a blank although there are a lot of stupid questions I ask on a daily basis. Here is an one from George Carlin -

"Why do we drive on a parkway and park in a driveway?"

Love George Carlin!

6. Roller skates~hula hoop~jump rope...which activity would you most enjoy? Yes, you have to choose.

I'll take Roller Skating for fifteen points:) I would NOT want to hula hoop or jump rope as there would be way to much jiggling going on there. Besides as a kid I still remember going to the Villa Roller Rink on Friday Nights. Good Times.

7. What's your most sentimental possession?

I really am not sentimental about possessions. Really, I'm not. This is not to say that I am not a sentimental person because I think that I really am. That being said if I had to pick one thing to take with me if my house was going to burn; it would be my scrapbooks.

Really.

In them I can revisit all my best memories.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

Taking all three boys to the vet with our dog Nala tonight. She's not doing so well lately, so wish me luck it's nothing that a few pills won't cure. Nala is going on 13 and starting to show her age.....

Skinny Girl - NOT!

2011-09-27T09:57:00.000-04:00

I'm not a skinny girl.

There was a brief time that I was a skinny girl.

Sadly with children in my case also comes some ~~(more than some)~~ weight.

Once I would loose all the weight, I would have another baby.

Thereby turning my 5 foot 2 frame into an umpa lumpa.

But today, this morning, I do feel a little skinnier.

I'm not actually skinnier, but I feel a little better.

Why, you ask.

You did ask, didn't you?

The secret is that I actually dusted off the treadmill.

Dear Hubby and I have had said treadmill since about 1998.

In the beginning it saw a lot of use.

For brief periods of time it get use.

This is now one of those times.

What prompted this need to get all sweaty again?

A few things actually.

On junk day, Dear Hubby and I contemplated putting this out as neither of us do anything with it but move it out of our way.
Someone thought I was expecting!!!! I'm not sadly. (Sad that someone thought such a thing, not sad that I'm not expecting. Three boys is my limit:)
I had to buy new clothes as the old ones had seen better days and I didn't like the size I had to buy.
I just don't feel good about the way I look. I imagine that there really are so few of us who do and that's kind of sad. I know that Dear Hubby doesn't care about my extra weight. I'm blessed to have a hubby who it really, really doesn't matter but I think it matters to me more than I'd like to admit.

Now, I am by no means thinking that I will ever be a size 6 again and truth be told I wasn't a size 6 for long. I will be happy to actually stick to an exercises routine and go about my business. At my age (yes, I'm that old), I really need to take better care of my heart and exercise is part of it.

As a baker who loves to make tasty treats for my family, this is going to be a challenge..... I'm not putting a number for my goal, but more of an overall healthy lifestyle. More salads, exercise on a regular basis, take my vitamins that are going stale on the shelf, and just maybe I will be both a more and less rounded person:)

Live, Laugh, Love

and

Scrap it all

Weekend Update

2011-09-26T10:49:00.001-04:00

This past weekend was a weekend like any other weekend. More rain which in New Jersey seems to be the norm now. I really wish some of this rain would head to my friends in Texas where they are dryer than burnt toast. Since that isn't in my control, we planned for another wet indoor weekend. Soccer was cancelled which I wasn't to sad about seeing as Little Guy had an 8:00 AM game. Who thinks it is a good idea to wake 4 and 5 year old children up at the crack to go play soccer. Come on people have some compassion. But we dodged a bullet as they cancelled it Friday night. Then guess what happened? It wasn't a wash out like the weather people predicted. Wouldn't it be nice if you could have a job and be wrong all the time?

Still too wet to play, but not so bad.

So we go about our weekend. This was our weekend to weed though all the junk we manage to accumulate and put it out for junk pickup. Every year we promise ourselves that we will not hoard. We will not need to do this the following year. Then somehow, we need to because we have yet again accumulated piles of junk. Why, oh why.... At least I can say that our piles are getting smaller:)

Then there was my big, colossal mistake......

I broke Middle Guy's computer.

Yup.

I did it.

It was all me....

What did I do you ask?

Something that the boys would have gotten into trouble for.

I left said computer on the floor, opened up.

Little Guy tripped over it.

Bending back the screen further than it should go.

Putting a little crack in it too.

Now the screen is just a mixture of lines with no real sense to it.

Ooops.

Luckily, he hasn't noticed yet.

I'm hoping to have a plan in place for a happy resolution soon.

It is times like this that I know I have a really great hubby.

He was there when said event happened.

I didn't think he realized that it broke.

When I did, I told him when the kids weren't around.

Guess what?

He already knew.

Guess what he said?

Nothing really.

He is on the search for a replacement.

I love this man.

He could have really made me feel bad.

He could have reamed me.

But he did none of the above.

Just pointed out that I shouldn't have left it on the floor.

But not in a bad way.

A matter of fact way.

Did I mention that I love him:)

So, please be sure to keep your fingers crossed because I know Middle Guy will not be so understanding:)

Live, Laugh, Love

and

Scrap it all!

Don't we have better things to talk about? Facebook Really?

2011-09-23T11:10:00.001-04:00

Let's see what's happening in the world....

Stocks take major tumble

GOP canidates debate

Possibly on the verge of global recession

Still at "war" in Middle East

and

I'm sure a whole slew of other VERY important topics....

So what did the news focus on yesterday?

Facebook changed!

Oh my.

The world will never be the same:)

Now, I will tell you that I am on Facebook.

I will further admit that I really don't like the new News Feed.

It does seem very invasive to me that if I post something on my friends wall that it now shows up in a ticker on the sidelines.

I will further admit that I have asked my facebook peeps to change what they see so that they don't see EVERYTHING I do on Facebook.

I also really don't want to see every little thing my friends do or say, so I have been doing the same to them.

All that being said.....

It is a Social Network site people!

It is also a FREE Social Network site!

If you don't want it out there:

A. Don't put it out there

B. If you have something to say to a friend in private,

shoot them an email, text them, or even pick up the phone.

Remember the days where we used to do that?

Now, I am not looking down from my high horse as I fear I am as bad as everyone else.

Now, I realize that I am adding to this by talking about Facebook instead of other things;

But

This is a blog not the NEWS!

When did the news stop being the news and start being Access Hollywood?

Live, Laugh, Love

and

Scrap it all!

Hodgepode!

2011-09-21T08:08:00.000-04:00

1. Do you like chili? Red or white? Beans or no beans? Spice or no spice? Toppings?

I enjoy a big pot of chili from the crock pot. I have even got my boys to like it. When I make mine, I do add some red Kidney Beans too it. I don't get carried away as if there are too many the boys won't eat it and I won't enjoy it. Once done, I like to add some shredded cheese and sour cream. Yummy!! Now, I think I'm going to have to make a pot this week. Thanks, Joyce!!

2. Red-orange-gold...your favorite fall color?

I really can't pick one as I think the beauty in fall is the mixture of all the colors. I think if all the leaves turned one bright shade of orange without the mixture of all the other colors it would not be pretty at all.

3. Who did you idolize when you were growing up?

Ok, don't laugh. Are yo ready..... I idolized Princess Diana. I remember being 13 when she got married and what little girl doesn't love a princess? I know I was mesmerized.

4. When was the last time you did something 'arts and craftsy'? Share please.

I concider my cake making artsy. So I would have to say when I made Little Guy's Ben 10 birthday cake.

It's an omnitrex.
Don't ask, but the one it was modeled after is in the corner.

If caking doesn't count,
I would have to say,
Scrapbooking.
Something else I enjoy, but haven't been devoting enough time to lately.

5. What's a place that makes you really nervous?

I beyond hate going to the Dentist. I had surgery (twice) for TMJ. I do NOT enjoy dental work at all!! When I go (and I actually have a good dentist), I put on my ipod and pretend I'm somewhere else or plan things. I plan Christmas Lists in my mind, chore list, or just visulize something good. I can not just sit there and think about what they are doing in my mouth. I will have a panic attack or get gag reflex. If there comes a time where I need major work done, I really will need a valium.

Now on a side not and totally unrelated to the above paragraph......... The dentist I saw as a teenager now sits in prison convicted of killing his wife in their dental office! True story. This is years after I used a new dentist (even though I'm only in my twenties!) Anyway, apparently they were going through a bitter divorce, neither would move out, she still ran the dental office (think War of the Roses) and he snapped. He shot her. I remember him as this small wimpy nerdy guy. Obviously, he had a dark side. To top it off his last name was Rambo.

6. Horseback riding...yay or nay (neigh?)

Although, I haven't done it in years. I do love horseback riding. There is nothing like cantering through a field on the back of a horse. There was a time, where I was a confident enough rider where I could even jump fences. I stopped riding when I got pregnant with my Big Guy and sadly haven't been back since. Dear Hubby also thrilled with the idea of riding horses as he thinks of me getting a Christopher Reeve type injury. He does worry so....

7. What's your favorite cliche?

WOW - do you know there is a website devoted to cliche's? I didn't until I googled Cliche. For the wanting to see more - http://www.clichesite.com

Anyway, I don't really know that I have a favorite. I can easily list the one's that I don't like

Shotgun wedding - This might have something to do with just celebraing my 12th anniversary and Big Guy being 11 1/2. He was planned people!! REALLY!!

Over the hill, Old Ball and Chain, All's well that ends well...... Please, although we all use them. My favorite would have to be - IT IS WHAT IT IS....

8. Insert your own random thought here.

I would like to know at what point our children stop blaming us for everything and realize that we really are doing the things we are doing because we LOVE THEM!! I'm having this problem with Middle Guy right now. He struggles in school. It's not that he doesn't try. He does. There are valid reasons why he struggles. So to help - he goes to inschool support, I've signed him up for a wonderful free program that we have been waiting over a year to get into. For this and a host of other things, I like to make his life miserable (according to him). We've done the, "We are only doing these things because we love you" speech a million times. I think he honestly believes I stay up at night thinking of ways to ruin his day. So someone please tell me, do I need to wait till adulthood for him to realize that if we didn't love him we wouldn't do anything?

Live, Laugh, Love

and

Scrap it all!

A fun time was had by all!

2011-09-19T11:09:00.000-04:00

Yesterday we celebrated Little Guy's 5th Birthday!

Can you believe how big he is getting?

Not me.

The expression is so true that time does fly by so quickly.

It is amazing how big he has gotten.

Gone though are the simple days from when we were kids...

I don't remember there being any "entertainment" or activities at parties.

You went.

You played and hung out.

Had some cake and went home.

I don't remember goodie bags either.

When did all this craziness start.

I'm just as crazy though because we had the

Fun Bus!

Although this was not the first time we celebrated Little Guy's birthday,

this was the first time he had a BIG party.

We invited his friends from last years preschool class.

Plus we invited his new friends from this years class.

Many of his new friends I don't even know as he just started school last week.

Little Guy wanted his party at home.

well the thought of having 12 four and five year olds in my home without a plan was very scary.

Up until we got our plan.

The Fun Bus!

Who knew?

Not me.

It's basically a part on wheels!

An old school bus coverted into a traveling little gym.

The boys loved it!

I was worried that Little Guy would not go on the bus,

but he not only went but had a great time.

I will say I was sweating bullets worried that the bus wouldn't show.

But they did and it all worked out.

Then right from the bus to going to the table for pizza and cake.

Pulled out the goodie bags and that signaled the end of the party I guess,

because everyone left then.

Worked for me because I was exhuased.

It was perfect.

Little Guy' smile said it all!

Live, Laugh, Love

and

Scrap it All!!

2011-09-15T10:13:00.001-04:00

Although it has only been a few days

and really only a few hours each day,

I think I am entering a transitional stage.

Next year (yes, this is the way I think)

Little Guy will be gone longer during the day.

Not all day, but more than the 2 1/2 hours that he is gone now.

I must admit, as much as I am doing the happy dance

Turning up my music in the house

Not listening to the boys shows;

It is different.

A good different!!

I forgot what is was like to acually have time alone.

I think I'm going to like this.

Now don't judge me!

Are you?

I love my children.

I love that I get to stay home with them.

I love being a mom and a wife.

But it can be draining being on call 24/7

Big Guy is 11 1/2 and I've been on call since then.

So, I think this will be good for all of us!

Now don't think be jealous thinking I am going to be spending all my time
shopping
meeting friends
maybe getting a pedicure
Although, I will try to squeeze these in.
I am just enjoying being able to
eat my breakfast in peace
actually be able to clean a whole room in my house without inturuptions
start and finish laundry the same morning
and
lots of fun stuff like that!

Live, Laugh, Love

and

Scrap it all!

Break Time is Over

2011-09-14T13:53:00.000-04:00

Although I'm not sure I actually got a break as I was super busy

as we all are

I did take a break from the blogging world.

I have been a very bad blogger.

I have been a very bad blogger friend.

I just went off the radar as far as blogs went.

Why I'm not really sure.

Well I'm back!

Aren't you super dupor excited?

So, to bring you up to speed...

Irene happened.

Water happend.

Not too bad and we recovered.

Helped in-laws as they were worse off than us.

More rain.

Pump failed.

Water in basement.

Luckily new pump arrived same day.

Dear Hubby put on his I can fix this pants.

Clean up of basement happend.

If only by itself, but alas I had to help

while similtanously occuping 3 boys still on summer vacation.

Clean up done,

but afraid to take any day trips as there were so many detours from flooding, down trees, and such.

Big Guy was sick for Labor Day.

So I got to stay home while Dear Hubby took the other boys to his families picnic.

Thought I was going to have a peacefull day to myself,

but Big Guy woke up enough to make it downstairs to fall asleep in the living room

Then older boys started school.

Yeah, School!!!

Then Little Guy turned 5!!

Although if you ask him this was his fake birthday as only Grandparents and God parents came for cake.

His "real" birthday is this weekend accordng to him as that his his party.

Then today

Angels singing

Little Guy started preschool!!!!!

I did he happy dance on the way out the door!!!

Don't judge me:)

So, I'm just popping in to say

Did you miss me?

and

I'm back!

Live, Laugh, Love

and

Scrap it all!

A Hodgepodge Day!

2011-08-31T09:51:00.000-04:00

1. Do you think the world became a more dangerous place on September 11, 2001 or did we just become more aware of the danger? How has your own life changed as a result of that day?

Sadly, I do not think that September 11, 2001 mad the world a more dangerous place. I think that it always was, but that we were a little naive about it. Yes, we knew that there were terrible things going on in the world, but they didn't take place on our soil. Once that happened, there was no turning a blind eye to all the horrors in the world as we now were personally involved.

I don't think my life has changed like so many that were personally effected with loss of loved ones. I know that I am more aware of the horror of the world and how easy it is to loose someone you love. I am reminded every time I drive through and see the September 11th memorial in the surrounding towns.

2. Did you think your parents were too strict when you were growing up? How about in hindsight?

I really don't think my parents were strict growing up. There were rules that needed to be followed - no swearing, going to church on Sunday morning, and basic rules like such. That being said, I don't remember my parents being overly strict.

3. Share one random but candid fact about yourself.

I know how to ride horses. I will tell you that it has been about 12 years since I've ridden, but I really do enjoy it. In my younger years, I even could jump fences with a horse that we owned. Sadly, I don't think that I have the same muscles now to ride.

4. Would your nearest and dearest describe you as simple or far too complicated?

I'm pretty certain they would all say that I'm simple (not a simpleton, but simple). With me, you get what you get. You know where I stand. I really don't require much to make me happy. My husband describes this not as simple, but high maintenance. We both know some very high maintenance people and neither one of us is one:)

5. What is your favorite stadium or carnival food?

Fried Dough!!!! Yum, yum, yum. I could eat a whole plate of it by myself, yet I always share with the boys:)

6. Tornado, hurricane, earthquake...how many of these natural disasters have you experienced? Which event do you think would be the scariest?

Seeing how I didn't even feel the earthquake that hit our area, I would have to go with hurricane. If you read my last few posts, you will understand why.

7. Labor Day weekend is approaching so a work related question seems appropriate. Growing up, did your parents assign you regular chores? Were you paid for doing those chores? If you're a parent do you assign chores to your own children? Why or why not?

I do not remember either having assigned chores nor receiving an allowance. My boys on the other hand not only have a basic chore list, but receive a small allowance for it. It is child labor as they only get $2 a week. We are thinking of bumping the older two up t $5. I think this helps them to understand that all those toys they want aren't as cheap as they think.

That last question was inspired by a post Mindee wrote on Monday. Everyone go say hi to Mindee-she blogs at Our Front Door and she's funny.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

Yesterday I took the boys back to school shopping. We went to Target and shopped in the dark as I didn't realize our local Shopping Center had no power. Apparently, Target and Home Depot are working on generators. The store's are working on a brown out status.

I could deal with shopping like this if they actually had what I needed. No cold foods and picked over back to school supplies as apparently even though we just got the lists, the stores don't care. They have moved on. Why do they rush everything?

Live, Laugh, Love
and
Scrap it all!

There' No Place Like Home, There's No Place Like Home

2011-08-30T08:21:00.000-04:00

As anyone who has seen he news recently knows,

Irene was a nasty, nasty, girl.

Luckily, I am married to someone who is more prepared than a boy scout.

As you know from Friday, we did not get to have a fun day;

but it was a well spent day.

The basement was emptied.

Everything was either moved out or moved up.

So as to make it more homey and less scary for the boys,

I made them a play room in our front room.

We even set the Wii up in that room for them.

My step father even found a generator out in Pennsy

(That's Pennsylvania for those not local)

for us.

It was the last one on the the shelf.

We told him to buy it for us.

Yeah, Step father!

Then after our day of work and setup in the basement,

we went out to get the boys and generator.

They were not happy to leave Grandma's.

They didn't understand why Grandma and I thought it best for them to go home.

When they got home, they loved the front room with all their toys.

They even begged to let it stay that way.

NO, boys.

NO.

Mommy and Daddy really do not like the fist thing that people see is your toy room. If we can keep people from seeing it at all, that really is the best!

Onward to the Storm...

Snacks - Check

Even made a batch of brownies.

Batteries - Check

Flashlights - Check

Water - Check

Filled bathtub - Check

Laundry done in case loose power - Check

Basement prepared - Check

Generator set up with power cords run and ready to go - check

Here comes the rain again.

Were good and ready to go to bed.

We have decided that we are all going to sleep in Big and Little Guy's room.

It seems like the safest spot and Dear Hubby and I want to be there just in case.

Little Guy fell asleep on the couch, so he was easy to move.

Then Big and Little Guy go to get settled.

Dear Hubby goes for one finally check of the basement.

We have power, but the pump isn't working!!!!!

After some finagling, Dear Hubby discovers that it will work if you gently (and I do mean gently) tap it.

What the heck......

What to do?

What to do???
How can we let our basement flood,
if all we have to do is tap?

I offer to take the first shift with the pump,

as it is already midnight and I envision a long night.

I am a night owl anyway.

I sit in the basement with my iced coffee, a snack, and my iPhone.

I tap.

I facebook.

I tap.

I facebook.

On and on it went.

Crazy, crazy, crazy.

What was more insane though is that at 1:30, the pump starts to work without my gentle reminder.

I do not trust it.

So I watch.

I also watch even with a working pump, water coming through cracks in the basement floor.

Wow.

After about 45 minutes, I feel like it no longer needs a babysitter.

Of course, that was the end of my shift anyway.

I tell Dear Hubby, he doesn't need to go downstairs.

Hmmmm, maybe it was a conspiracy so that he wouldn't need to hear me snore.

After about 2 1/2 hours (if I was lucky) of sleep,

the power goes out.

Dear Hubby and I spring into action.

Grab our flashlights and head to the garage.

Our neighbor is already outside the door to help.

We had already set it up for him to piggy back onto our generator.

We quickly get everything hooked up and plugged in.

Just in those few minutes the pump didn't work, water came into the basement.

I know while I was watching Bubba, the name I gave our pump, the pumps well would fill in 8 seconds.

8 seconds!!

Scary stuff.

Then we just ride it out.

We were up.

No going back to bed for us.

So, I make coffee.

By the time, the kids wake up the worst has passed.

Big Guy was upset to miss it.

He wanted to see if he could fly in the winds.

Then the clean up begins.

We also need to help Dear Hubby's parents on the other side of town.

Dear Hubby's Father just came home the Friday before the storm after Hip replacement surgery.

They have a son that lives with them who has Cerebral Palsy and in a wheel chair.

His mother's hip isn't so good either.
We take our generator over as they have no power.
On the drive over, we are amazed.
The number of trees down.
Even with water in the basement,
we realized that we dodged a bullet here.
You just don't mess with Mother Nature!

Be Safe.
Be Happy.
And don't forget to
Live, Laugh, Love
and
Scrap it all!!

Another Day, Another Storm....

2011-08-26T11:39:00.000-04:00

As an update to yesterday,

My post did have it's desired effect.

We cried together, had a little laughter, and it was good.

Is her life picture perfect now,

But she knows that she is not alone.

There are people in her corner,

no matter what.

What more could any of us hope for?

Now, the next storm....

Irene!!!

I mean come on!

Earthquakes

Hurricane's

One sister lives in California,

I always teased her to come home where there are no earthquakes.

One sister lives in Florida.

I always teased her to come home where we don't worry about Hurricane's.

Come on people!

Now, I've got no amunition;

but they have plenty.

I had also planned to have a weekend alone with Dear Hubby.

The kids were and are temperarally tucked away at Grandma's.

Dear Hubby and I were to enjoy some time together.

Maybe go out for sushi?

Maybe go for a movie?

Maybe do both.

Instead, we are preparing for Irene!

Emptying the basement.

Getting supplies together.

Getting boys home early from Grandma' so that we can hunker down.

Dear Hubby asked if I wanted to stay at Grandma's away from the storm.

But, we are a family

and

families stay together.

I bid you adieu

as my break is now over and must resume my not so fun day with Dear Hubby.

Live, Laugh, Love

and

Scrap it all!

Tell me lies, Tell me lies, tell, Tell me sweet little lie

2011-08-25T08:57:00.001-04:00

I've got a friend

Yes, a real live friend.

You will see, it's not me when you hear the story.

She has been going through a nasty divorce for the last TWO years.

Yes, two years.

Her hopefully soon to be one day ex husband has dragged this out taking her to court at every turn.

He is treating their divorce like they are the trumps with wild accusations and such.

And all the while, he stays in their home while she lives in a small apartment with their teenage daughter.

All their funds are tied up and that seems fine with him.

To make matters worse, he works at her father's company.

In a normal family, her father would have asked him to leave.

Unfortunately for my friend, her family is not normal.

So she has had to suffer all of his hatefulness living under a glass.

Sadly, I think that the glass she has been living under is starting to crack.

She is shutting down.

Shutting people out.

So, I hope to reach her with this post.

I don't know why it so hard for people to believe the truth,

but the lies that people say we believe.

I know that we all do that.

If someone gives us a compliment, we shrug it off

But if someone says something hurtful, we dwell on it.

We embrace it.

We need to stop letting others determine who we will be.

My mother is good at that. She likes to label her grandchildren.

Oh, this one is that.

This one is this.

Now, I will say her labels are positive labels,

but labels still the same.

I tell her all the time,

they will be what they want to be and not what we tell them to be.

As the saying goes,

Children become what you tell them they will be.

If you constantly tell a child he is no good or can't do something, he will fulfill it.

But if you build your child up, tell them they can do anything, the sky is the limit.

I think this same truth applies to adults.

As an adult though, we need to see those words for what they are.

The hatefulness behind their words.

The lies that they are.

We need to see the ugliness in their hearts for what it is.

In this case the saying is true,

It is not us, it's them

(you know it's not you it's me).

Do not believe the lies.

Do not let others determine who you will be.

Allow yourself to be happy despite their hatefulness.

Turn a deaf ear to those that speak with hate in their hearts.

Believe those who speak with friendship and love.

Those who do not have hidden agendas

Those who know you best.

Do not believe the lies.

Believe the truth.

Believe in you!

Create your own truth for your life and do not allow others to create it for you.

Remember the expression,

The best revenge is happiness.

Remember

you are worthy and deserving of friendship, love, and happiness

and

Life is to precious a gift to be wasted being unhappy.

Further,

Remember

YOU ARE LOVED!

YOU ARE IMPORTANT!

This applies to us all.

Getting my Hodgepodge on!

2011-08-24T09:37:00.000-04:00

It must be Wednesday, because it's time for another Hodgepodge! Thanks to Joyce from This side of the Pond for coming up with these fun questions.   Feel free to join in on the fun at her site.

1. What is something that bothers you if it's not done perfectly?

Ok, I mean no disrespect, so please do not take offense.   And there really is no perfect way to do it, because it is a very personal thing. But one thing that raises the hair on the back of my neck is when people put their photos in albums that are not photo safe. It reminds me of my albums from when I was younger and how some of the photos yellowed and actually got ruined. I love when people take the time to put their pictures in an album (any brand), I just wish they also took the time to find out about what they are putting their photos into.

Its funny to when watching a movie and if thee is a scene with an photo album (think Twilight and Bella's album), my husband will look at my and make a smart comment.   He gets me:)

2. Do you think a 6th sense exists? Explain.

Yes, I do. Can't explain it, but just because you can't explain it doesn't mean it doesn't exist.   Come on admit, at one time or another your "gut" told you to do something.    Then later you realized that it was a good thing that you listened to your gut.   I know a few times when I didn't listen to my "gut feeling" and regretted it later too.

3. Do you say your goodbyes slowly, quickly, or not at all?

I"m not a big fan of the Looooooong goodbye.   I don't think you should wait to your goodbye's to say everything that needs to be said.   So, I would say my goodbyes are fairly quick.   For example, during the school year (yeah, it's coming soon); I kiss each of my boys (the older two before we leave the house so not to embarrass them).   Ten I tell them I love them and have a great day.   Then out the door they go:)   What more needs to be said?

4. On a scale of 1-10, with ten being hot hot hot, what level of spice do you like in your food? What's your favorite 'spicy' dish?

Some like it hot, hot, hot.

I am not one of them.

Dear Hubby likes his food so spicy that he will sometimes break into a sweat.

Me, I'm more on the sweeter side and don't like to feel like my mouth is on fire and need to put it out with a bucket of water. So, I would say that I'm on a 5 scale of spice. Nothing too crazy.

5. What is one of your all time favorite commercial jingles?

Nestle makes the very best Chocolate....

6. Plane, train, boat or auto...your preferred method of travel?

My first thought was the Steve Martin movie! Love that movie!!

Anyway, I guess I'd have to say boat. I love siting on the front f our boat, while Dear Hubby drives it around the lake on a sunny day:)

7. What is something you take for granted.

I probably, sadly, must admit that I do take for granted Dear Hubby.   He is such a rock. I am getting better about it though and realize that it's not a good idea to take for granted your Dear Hubby:) Especially when he's such a good one!

8. Insert your own random thought here.

Did you know we had an earquake here in New Jersey yesterday? t wasn't a hudge earthquake. I admit that I didn't even feel it until Dear Hubby called about it. He works on the 6th floor of a building, so he felt it. He said the building swayed and everyone was very nervous.   At first they weren't sure what was going on until they realized that the other buildings had felt the same thing.

And on top of that we are all a little nervous about Irene coming up the coast.   Last time we had hurricane hit New Jersey,we ended up with a foot of water in the basement.   That was before the basement was finished!   So fingers crossed:)

The Downside of Vacation and lack of sleep

2011-08-23T08:39:00.000-04:00

I made a fatal mistake today.

I stepped on my bedroom scale.

Really not a good idea to do after two weeks away.

Even with all the long walks to the bathroom,

I still managed to gain almost 5 pounds.

That's 2 1/2 pounds a week.

Oh my, Oh my.

I've been toying with the idea of going back on my South Beach Diet

maybe even exercising when the boys start school in another couple of weeks.

Shocking, I know.

This may be the deciding factor.

This is not good.

So, I don't know when but I am going to start but I will.

Someday.

One day.

Maybe sooner than later would be a good idea:)

Moving on....

I'm just wondering if it possible for boys to play quietly?
I'm really thinking that it's not.
My three are rarely quiet
and
if by chance one is quiet the other two more than make up for it.
Now add to the mix 10 year old cousins
Who slept over last night
But if you ask me it really was only a long nap
as they were up late and then early this morning.
and that equals ear splitting excitment.

That is normally not bothersome to me.
Being a Mom of three boys, I expect it.
I actually worry when things are too quiet.
Don't you?
Now, first thing in the morning,
I could do without all the excitment.
I do wish I could reach that level of energy
without coffee.

Anywho....
off to make the little heard some waffles.
Yes, I am that good of a mommy:)

Live, Laugh Love
and
Scrap it all!

Hello Again

2011-08-22T08:58:00.000-04:00

Hello

Is anybody in there?

Just nod if you can hear me.

Is anyone home ?

Anyone know the name of that song?

Anyway, I''mmmmm back!

Miss me?

Did you even know I was gone?

Please don't tell me if you didn't notice that I was gone.

That would make me sad.

But feel free to tell me if you noticed:)

Anywho...

I recently returned from two weeks of camping with the family.

Yes, you heard me, camping.

And guess what?

I like it.

I really really like it!

We had a great time.

Good weather.
Especially when back home they were getting 9 inches of rain.
Yuck.

And got to get away from it all!

NO Cell service at camp either!!

Therefore no phone ringing at dinner either.

We had so much fun.

Boat Rides

Fishing

I don't fish, I read:)

Smores

Blueberry picking

Kayacking
When out on the Kayack, Big Guy and I saw the most beautiful site.

He flew right over us.
It was truly breathtaking.

Tubing off the boat

Knee-boarding off the boat.

I'll let you in on a secret too.

I knee-boarded.

For those not familiar with the act of knee-boarding -

you basically kneel on a specialized board

Lean back (far), hold onto the rope (tightly), and try not to fall.

I don't have any pictures yet as my sister-in-law did take some and I didn't get them yet.

I will tell you that it is no easy task to do

no matter how easy the kids make it look.

It took several attempts to do, but was so worth it.

It was worth it, not only because it was fun;

but because everyone was laughing at me.

Laughing the same way I laughed at the other adults that tried.

I got thumbs up from my boys watching on the boat

for being the super cool Mom to not only try but actually go around for a while.

Didn't you already know I'm a super cool mom?

While camping I came up with a list of thing.......

You may be a camper if.......

If you have to walk for 5 minutes to get the the bathroom

If you need quarters to shower.

If you can change into your pj's in your sleeping bag.

If in a pinch, you heat water up on your stove to hand wash your childs socks

If you not only know of but have used no water shampoo.

If you need to buy ice to keep your food cold.

If you don't care if you boys are clean until bedtime

On that note,
I will bid you adieu and say that although I may be a camper,
I am very happy to be home!

Live, Laugh, Love
and
Scrap it all!

A Day of Hodgepodge

2011-08-03T09:26:00.000-04:00

1. Share a favorite song lyric.

I love the song: Forever Young by Rod Stewart:

I always thinks of my boys when I hear this song

And when you finally fly away
I'll be hoping that I served you well
For all the wisdom of a lifetime
No one can ever tell

But whatever road you choose
I'm right behind you, win or lose
Forever Young, Forever Young
Forever Young ,Forever Young
Forever Young, Forever Young
For, Forever Young, Forever Young

2. When was the last time someone yelled at you?

I'm not sure exactly when but I'm sure it would have been my mother. She is easily upset and yells without even realizing she is speaking very loudly. When you tell her to stop yelling her response is, "I'm not yelling. This is how I talk." So I may be in my 40's, but I don't think she got that memo.

3. Money, fame, happiness...are they mutually exclusive?

Not at all. I know many people who have enough money in the bank that they should be happy, ye they are not. I also know people who don't have two dimes to rub together that are very happy. That being said, I think having enough money to live comfy, support your family, and put some in the bank releaves stress and does bring a level of happiness that scrapping by does not bring.

To me Fame is a whole nother ball game. I believe that people who search for fame have bigger isssus. It's one thing to say that you have a talent and want to pursue your dream of using your talent as a career. I think it's another thing to say, "I want to be famous!" These people usually (IMO) are trying to gain love and acceptance and think the hollowness of fame will bring it to them. If you watch the tabloids, this is usually not the case.

4. What is your favorite dish to prepare for family and friends that doesn't require turning on the stove, oven or an outdoor grill?

Hmmm, this really isn't a dish but my favorite appetizer and most requested "dish" that doesn't require any cooking is my home made salsa. I'm patiently waiting for my tomatoes in my garden to make some of this yummy stuff soon.

5. The first week of August is National Simplify Your Life Week. What is one thing you could do this week to simplify your life? Will you do it?

I should oganize my scrapbooking room. Go through the products I'm not using. Donate some. Throw away some. Sadly, I won't have time to do that this week; but it is on my list:)

6. On a scale of 1-10 (with 10 being 100% and 1 being not at all) how tuned in are you to your country's national political scene?

I think I'm about a 8-9. Sadly, I think that our country has become so divided and that we have forgotten politically how to treat people that don't share our same beliefs. I know as a mother, I tell my children that everyone is different and each family has different rules. That we need to respect their different beliefs. I think those in politics need to have a talk with their mommies as most of them have forgotten this message.

7. What are your final parting words to the month of July?

Please stay a little longer. I can't believe that summer is half way over. Although, I will say you were too hot for my taste this year. Really, who needs a heat index of over a 100. Not me, really. I'm more of an 80's kind of gal:)

8. Insert your own random thought here.

I'm so ready for vacation. Unplugging. Getting away from it all. Being with family by a lake. What I am not ready is for packing, planning, and getting it all together!

2011-08-02T08:26:00.000-04:00

Yesterday was not that great of a day. Middle Guy had to have two teeth pulled. Yes, they were only baby teeth, but they were baby teeth that were not ready to come out. The teeth behind them apparently per the x-ray were not coming in straight and therefore not putting pressure on these baby teeth. The dentist felt that by removing thee teeth would help his big boy teeth to fall into the gap left by these baby teeth. Ok, I guess.

I will say Middle Guy was a champ during the whole procedure and the dentist did a great job with him. Talking him through the procedure, being patient, and really taking very good care of him. I think the "laughing gas" helped although I didn't see any laughing. No laughing at the appointment, but no tears either. The tears came later, on the way home when the effect of the laughing gas wore off. When Middle Guy's mouth is filled with gauze to soak up the blood from the gaping holes in his mouth. One on each side of his mouth. He was in no pain, but the numbness left in his mouth and the gauze was driving him insane. Therefore, it drove me insane.

Let us not forget the "your an evil mommy" looks that I got. Little daggers shooting my was as if it was my idea to have these teeth removed. Guilt by association. Isn't it funny how often this happens. I get these looks from Middle Guy often - when I take him for his blood work for his thyroid, when I take him to his summer reading tutor, or any of the other things I need to take him to. What helps me with those dagger looks is that I know (or at least I hope) that one day, one day, Middle Guy will realize why I dragged him to all of these things. He will say to himself (or better yet to me), "I know that Mom got no enjoyment from these things, but that she or they (his father is in on it too) did these things for no other reason than they love me."

Yes, we do Middle Guy.

Yes, we do.

If we didn't,

we wouldn't do all these things.

All that being said, I often wonder why m Middle Guy is my little Charlie Brown?

If a tooth needs to be pulled, it's Middle Guy.

If blood work needs to be drawn, it's Middle Guy.

If someone needs to take medicine every morning, it's Middle Guy.

If someone struggles in school, it's Middle Guy

ect

Today, should be a better day.

We only have reading class.

Then off for some fun, fun, fun.

Maybe:)

Live, Laugh, Love

and

Scrap it all!

Weekend Edition:)

2011-08-01T10:08:00.000-04:00

This past weekend, I spent a chunk of it baking cakes for my Dad.

It was the Anual Farmer's Fair.

Yes, you heard me right,

the Farmer's Fair.

For the Fair, he puts together and runs the event for the Race Car Show.

This seems to be our thing now for me to make a cake.

This year, I went with simple

Please remember this is for a drag strip and dirt track racking exhibit.

Then off to the Fair.

First a visit to see some prize winning animals.

Yes, they can win ribbons too.

Then off to some rides.

and only some (as in 2 each).

Each ride cost $2.00.

I find that to be ridiculous, but maybe that's just me.

I find it to be more ridiculous, when I realize that we paid to get into the fair too.

Big Guy really, really, really didn't want to go on this one.

Middle Guy talked him into it.

This is why Big Guy did not want to go on it.

He was afraid he was going to vomit, but we as good parents assured him he wouldn't since he hadn't eaten yet. He did not vomit which was good for everyone.

Then it was Little Guy's turn to be daring and go on The Dragon!

We do not know who this little girl is but she wanted to be upfront and center.

Who wouldn't want to sit next to my Little Guy when he looks so dashing:)

The only downside to going to the Fair this year was that it was so darn hot and we really couln't enjoy it at all. We didnt' even want to sit in the stands to watch the Lawn Mower Racing (I kid you not). It was just too hot. Maybe, next year boys. Maybe next year.

This was also Dear Hubby's first experience going to the fair. He was thrilled. Now, I think he was thrilled when we left not when we got there. I could be wrong in my assumption though.

Live, Laugh, Love

and

Scrap it all!

It's been a long Time, Been a long Time.....

2011-07-29T10:14:00.001-04:00

I've done something that I haven't done in a LONG time.

For those of you who have been with me for a while, you may be shocked at what I've been doing. Ready.......I've been working on my digital storybooks again. Yeah, for me!!! I don't know why I haven't done it in ages, but it feels good to be back in the saddle again. Ok, I do know why I haven't been doing it so much. It's my other obsession - baking. No, I haven't been spending all my free time baking; but close enough. Watching online tutorials, checking out online stores, sites, and looking at cakes for ideas. Both are very creative outlets for me, but I need to find a balance between the two. Although, I think my family does prefer the baking:)

Anywho, back on track. I've been working on my 2010 Family Book. This has been causing me to go though all of my 2010 pictures in Memory Manager. What fun!! What really struck me though is when I got to last years first day of school pictures. (Random thought here - For those that Home School, do you take a "first day" of school picture?) They all look so little compared to now. I really see it in Big Guy. Maybe that's because he is almost as tall as me now. See for yourself:

Then

and now

It's not just me being sentimental mommy, is it?

You see the difference too, don't you?

Moving along

This weekend is the annual Farmer's Fair. Yes, you heard me right. The Farmer's Fair.

I trek my citified boys out to the country. The place of my youth, so that they can stand next to "REAL LIVE COWS!" and the opportunity to hold a chick followed by the question, "CAN WE BUY ONE?" We also get to spend time with Grandpa as he is charge of putting together the old timers race car exhibit (and I get to bake a cake for it - I'm thinking race car and tire cake). The boys then get to see a slew of old race cars too. Exciting stuff, but not as exciting as watching the Lawnmower races. I kid you not. It's actually pretty funny as these are not your father's lawn mower. Hey, don't judge me until you've been to one! It is a good time with rides, family, and fried dough.

So with all this excitement this weekend, I'm off.

Live, Laugh, Love

and

Scrap it all!