The Chaotic Homemaker

Where I've been...

2011-11-28T10:52:00.002-05:00

Allover, it feels like.

No one every said this blog would be written with consistency, right? It is, chaotic, after all.

So the update fate:

I found a job
It's the holiday season
I have three children that keep me extraordinarily busy.

Yup, that about sums it up!

So where does that leave me and this blog? I still love to write here, but I need to find a new routine for writing here, esp while i have a more chaotic work schedule until my class is done (i won't even start for another month, and the course is 6 weeks). Then i should have a bit of a normal, set schedule.

Here's to hoping, right?

I will be back this afternoon with another post or two though, so be prepared!!

{this moment}

2011-10-28T07:51:00.002-04:00

{this moment} - Inspired by SouleMama

A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I was to pause, savor and remember.

Links to more moments can be found in the comments section at Souelmama.

Have a lovely weekend!

Menu Planning Monday - October 10th

2011-10-10T17:40:00.004-04:00

Monday: Small shell pasta and cheese sauce

Tuesday: Baked chicken, mashed potatoes, carrots

Wednesday: Pasta bake

Thursday: Chicken fajitas

Friday: Grilled cheese and tomato soup

Saturday: Homemade pizza

Sunday: Who knows yet!

Make sure you head over to I'm an Organizing Junkie for more menu planning resources! The host blogger is Canadian, well as some of the other blogs that link up. Today is their Thanksgiving, so I know I'm picking up some ideas before Thanksgiving hits the states next month!

Also, make sure to check out my review of the digital scrapbooking software, My Memories, for a chance to win the software yourself while you're visiting my blog! The giveaway ends this Friday!

{this moment}

2011-10-07T15:56:00.004-04:00

{this moment} - Inspired by SouleMama
A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I was to pause, savor and remember.

Links to more moments can be found in the comments section at Souelmama.

While you are here, make sure you check out my giveaway post from yesterday!

Have a lovely weekend!

MyMemories Suite Review, + $10 off coupon + a giveaway!

2011-10-04T14:35:00.026-04:00

CONTEST IS DONE! WINNER IS: Comment #8:Crunchymommy said... Followed the My Memories blog via e-mail.

I was recently given the rare opportunity to review the My Memories Suite 2.0 digital scrapbook software. Given my dismal attempts at scrapbooking previously, and that the vast majority of my photos are now digital, I couldn't say no! But once I got to actually reading about the program, I found out that My Memories Suite can also make greeting cards, calendars, even slideshows. But, I'm getting ahead of myself.

click to enlarge

First let me say, that this software is available for both windows, as well as mac users!
I found the software relatively easy to use. So much so, that I was able to make a simple page in less then 10 minutes! You have a wide range to zoom in and out while working on your pages that makes seeing the whole page, or working in fine details, possible. The left hand side resource gallery is like a mini preview area to look at photos, embellishments, papers, etc, that you may want to use. The right hand side control panel allows you to really tweak items on your page. You can mat photos, add shadows to just about anything, rotate, change the opacity, mirror and flip and more.

What's great is that everything is organized by theme, making it much easier to find what you are looking for, rather then long, unsorted lists. Making things even easier, all the page elements are drop and drag. You can also adjust the size of your page elements, and if you try to make an embellishment too large, it will pop up with a caution message that the embellishment pixelation will be distorted if you use it at that size. I haven’t come across any software, for photos or scrapbooking, that does that.

My Memories Suite 2.0 comes with over 20+ templates, 1,500 papers and over 1,300 embellishments. Plenty of stuff to get you started on your way to digital scrapbooking, but I really love looking at all the extra kits and templates from their only store. I have already bought the School Memories pack and Into the WoodZ extras, but there is also plenty of free kits available to download as well. I have already downloaded quiet a few, and it is just as easy to add purchased and free items as it is to use the program. I've also just discovered that if you like the MyMemories Facebook page, you will receive a promo code for $5 towards digital scrapbook kits!

So cute, and finally a way to preserve photos in more then just endless files upon files "gathering dust" on my computer hard drive!

While I haven't had a chance to try out many of the other features of this program yet, I loved this software! I imagine I am going to be using it quite a bit, especially as Birthday's and Holidays start approaching.

Want to win a copy? The lovely folks over at My Memories would like to give one lucky reader their own copy of My Memories Suite 2.0 (valued at $39.95).

How to enter:
You must go to MyMemories.com and look around their website. Come back here to this blog post and leave a comment telling me which scrapbook kit or template you would want most. Please make sure to leave your email address (you can use the word "at" for "@" and "dot" for "." to help reduce spam). If you don't leave a way for me to contact you, I will be forced to choose another winner.

Want to increase your odds of winning?
Do any of the following before, and leave a separate comment for each one you do (i'll check). Please note that if you do not do the initial entry above, additional entries will be invalid.

Follow The Chaotic Homemaker using Google Friend Connect [1 entry]
Like The Chaotic Homemaker on Facebook [1 entry]
Follow the MyMemories blog and tell me how you are follow (google reader, email, etc)[1 entry]
Like MyMemories on Facebook [1 entry]

Make sure you leave a new comment for each additional entry.

Entries will be accepted from Thursday, October 6th, until Friday, October 14th at 3pm Eastern time.

I will randomly select a winner from all of the entries received. I will then notify the winner by e-mail. The winner will have 48 hours to respond to my email or I’ll draw a new winner. After the winner replies to me, I will announces the winner here on my blog.

Don't want to wait and see if you win in order to have your own copy of My Memories Suite 2.0?
The software is normally $39.99 but if you enter the coupon code STMMMS37602 when you check out, you will save $10 off the purchase price. In addition, you will receive a code good for $10 towards digital scrapbook kits in the My Memories Suite store!

Add that to the $5 for liking their Facebook page, and you can get $15 towards digital kits to start you off!

So, what are you waiting for? You only need to enter once by telling me your favorite template or kit from the MyMemories.com store and comment below. While there will only be 1 winner, the more entries you make, the great your chances of winning! Any questions? Click on my profile link at the top of my right side bar, and there will be a link to email me.

Disclosure: I received a copy of My Memories Suite 2.0 in order to facilitate this review. I received no other compensation and the opinions stated are my own.

Menu Planning Monday - October 3rd

2011-10-03T17:42:00.002-04:00

Running a day late, but I am planning on a few more posts this week, including a return of WIP Wednedays, and even a giveaway!
But no chatter - just straight to this weeks menu!

Monday - Kielbasas with mac and cheese

Tuesday - Pasta night

Wednesday - Take-out

Thursday - Chicken and rice with broccoli

Friday - homemade Chinese night

Saturday - Pizza, veggie tray

Sunday - Andrew's choice

Of course make sure you check out I'm an Organizing Junkie for more menu ideas and links!
Have a great week everyone!

{this moment}

2011-09-30T06:36:00.003-04:00

{this moment} - Inspired by SouleMama.
A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I was to pause, savor and remember.

Have a lovely weekend!!

Menu Planning Monday - September 26th

2011-09-26T05:27:00.005-04:00

Monday: Beefy Taco casserole

Tuesday: Chicken and rice

Wednesday: Ravioli and salad

Thursday: Breakfast night (apple spice waffles, omelet, toast, etc)

Friday: Asian orange chicken, over rice with broccoli

Saturday: Pizza night (homemade)

Sunday: Chicken divan

Make sure you head over to I'm an Organizing Junkie for more menu planning ideas and links!

{this moment}

2011-09-23T00:43:00.005-04:00

Have a lovely weekend!!

Where I'm From

2011-09-20T16:48:00.005-04:00

This is writing exercise that one of my friends posted on her blog. The template I used was taken from another blog here.

Where I'm From

I am from the family television, the WWF and R/C cars.

I am from the the big white house that was an apartment, the blackberry bushes and walnut trees.

I am from the gladiolas and bleeding hearts, from the backyard flower bed.

I am from big Sunday morning breakfast and Christmas cookie trays, from Barbers, and Hunters, and Millers and Pavicks.

I am from the denial and addiction.

From Do as I say, Not as I do and If they jumped off a bridge, would you too?

I am from Episcopalian, Presbyterian and Agnostic. A do as you will, but don't preach to me mixture of beliefs.

I’m from the Finger Lakes region of New York, from Ireland, Wales, France, England, Germany, Italy and the unknown , of potatoes and cheese.

From the brother fooling us all about being shut in the car truck, but really climb in through seats that fold down to the backseat, and the dad taking us to swim lessons at the company pool every summer, with the every popular min golf course.

I am from photos and items in dusty boxes, scattered among the homes of various family, including my own, of hard drives and memories, more priceless any other possession I own.

Menu Planning Monday - September 19th

2011-09-19T19:08:00.004-04:00

I can't believe it's almost autumn! And our dinners are taking a turn for the super easy lately, as well as warming us up. This week 2 out of 3 open houses at the kids school, plus a school dance. Let the hectic school days being!

Monday: Tomato soup and grilled cheese

Tuesday: Pasta with marinara sauce

Wednesday: Subs and chips

Thursday: Picnic at one of the kids open house nights (will supplement with healthy snacks at home, too)

Friday: leftover night

Saturday: Pizza and wing night (ordering in)

Sunday: Chicken divan, noodles, salad

Make sure you head over to I'm an Organizing Junkie for more menu planning ideas and links!

It's been a chaotic life!

2011-09-19T18:50:00.002-04:00

The title for my blog has been really on spot as of lately, as proven with my lack of posting on here.

Here's a quick run down on the last couple of weeks events

~Started painting the girls bedroom
~8 yo old's first horseback riding lesson
~Start of school (all kids are full day now)
~Rally day (start of the Sunday school year. This year I'm "in charge" of acolytes)
~First mid-week kids church group
~Restart of handbell choir (YAY!!), and decisions about joining choir
~More horseback riding for the 8 yr old
~Oldest started Lacrosse camp
~A meeting with a 3rd grade teacher

and coming up is 3 open houses (cause none of the kids attend the same school, of course), pictures days, first school dance of the year, more lacrosse, more horseback riding, thinking I should find something for Andrew if the girls get to do a sport each, knitting and crocheting Christmas gifts, helping out at church when I can (fall rummage sale anyone?), looking for a job and trying to keep our home running smoothly with everyone's schedules being as hectic as they are

*Whew*

I promise to get back in this space posting more regularly. really... i mean it this time :)

Until then - i hope everyone is having a happy chaotic start to autumn!!

Menu Planning Monday - September 12th

2011-09-12T14:46:00.006-04:00

Still getting into the routine of being back in school. This week, all our regular activities start back up too. Welcome fall!

Monday: Chicken and Rice

Tuesday: Breakfast for dinner

Wednesday: Pasta night

Thursday: Chicken Divan

Friday: Leftovers/YOYO

Saturday: Lunch: Macaroni and cheese muffins
Supper: Homemade pizza night (and Doctor Who!)

Sunday: Gonna use the grill 1 more time before it gets too cold :)

School lunches:
The kids actually wanted school lunches for most of this week (and almost not at all next week), so for the 1 day the younger 2 are bringing, it's just your typical sandwiches, but we're going to turn the traditional PB&J into a PB&J sushi rolls

Menu Planning Monday - September 5th

2011-09-04T21:16:00.006-04:00

So here we are, September already! Where did the time go this year?? This week the kids head back to school, and for the first time they all be gone for the full day. There is obviously a mixture of elation and sadness with this, but I'm going to go with the positive, and say "yeah" for all the housework i can finally get done that has been slacking over the summer months!

So, we had an unexpected heat wave over the weekend, and dinner's meal that my husband picked was move to Monday, for the holiday here in the states. Otherwise, just working on trying to get a nice routine going again before we get busy with all the after-school activities.

Getting to this a day late (was busy with all the back-to-school stuff yesterday to post), but here is how our week is going to shape up!

Monday (Labor Day) - Chicken-fried Steak with mashed potatoes and green beans

Tuesday - Chicken and rice

Wednesday - Pasta night

Thursday - Breaded chicken (baked), baked potato, salad

Friday - Vegetarian chicken nuggets and french fries (maybe the kids will stop begging for McDs)

Saturday - Homemade pizza (daiya cheese pizza for me)

Sunday - Slow cooker ham, scolloped potatoes, green beans.

School lunches. In trying to make sure the kids have healthier lunches then the standard lunch room fare each day, I'm going to be packing the kids lunches at least 3 or 4 days out of the week. I imagine they will want to partake in the weekly pizza day, and the girls have liked breakfast for lunch, but I'll be trying to pack them that. And it seems this year that the menu for the schools is different from the elementary to middle/high school buildings. Also, they do not have access to any way of heating their meals at school, so I'm going to learn to get creative with lunches this year. Without anymore chatter from me, here is the lunches planned for their first week back to school.

Tuesday - Sandwiches, grapes, carrots, milk box and pudding cup.

Wednesday - Sandwiches (or dinner leftovers), pear cup (or whole pear), milk and brownie.

Thursday - (pizza day for the younger 2) I'm going to ask Lexi what she would like

Friday - Mac and cheese, broccoli, orange wedges and drink mix.

{this moment}

2011-09-02T18:33:00.002-04:00

{this moment} - A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember.

If you're inspired to do the same, leave a link to your 'moment' in the comments for all to find and see.

Have a lovely weekend!

My First Sweater

2011-09-02T10:14:00.006-04:00

I've been wanting to post about this for awhile now, but really hadn't gotten to it.

I'm working on my first knitted sweater!!

Now, I've done plenty of crocheted sweaters. Granted, they have all been small child size and smaller (and the majority were newborn baby size). So in keeping with that, as well as that doing the smallest size i need first will result in less time/supplies lost if I end up really making a mess of the the thing. But, I'm almost nearly 1/2 way done, and it's looking great!!

sweater, before the pouch was fully attached.

sweater after attaching the pouch
(updating with a better picture this afternoon!)

This sweater is going to be for my son, the youngest. The pattern is called The Wonderful Wallaby (ravelry link). Right now I'm actually up to the arm pits and needing to cast on sleeves. I need to run and grab another needle so i can knit those this weekend. I was hoping to be done before school started, but realize for a first sweater that was an ambitious goal for myself. But, I can see myself getting it done before mid-September (when he'll really need to start wearing a sweater).

And then I'll have to cast on for one of my daughters (who are already begging for one of their own!)

Menu Planning Monday - August 29th

2011-08-29T09:30:00.010-04:00

WOW! Has it been a busy summer! And here we are, the last week of summer vacation for my kids (we seem to start later then everyone else, going back after Labor day). Now it's time to get busy getting back into a routine of wake up, bedtimes, and regular, healthy meals (and meal times!). Something new, Sundays are going to be my husband's dinner choice each week. That might be challenging for this non-red meat eating momma, as this week's choice may show!

So without further ado, here is our menu this week.

Monday: Sandwiches, carrots and chips

Tuesday: Chicken fajitas

Wednesday: Pasta night

Thursday: YOYO (your on your own, aka leftovers)

Friday: "Brinner"

Saturday: May not be home, will play it by ear (and maybe update this day later in the week!)

Sunday: Chicken fried steak, mashed potatoes, green beans

Next week's menu I hope to include what I'm packing for kid's lunchboxes (and for the younger 2, their at school snack)

For more menu ideas and links, visit I'm an Organizing Junkie!

{this moment}

2011-07-08T11:08:00.003-04:00

{this moment} - Inspired by Soulemama

A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember.

If you're inspired to do the same., leave a link to your 'moment' in the comments for all to find and see.

Wishing everyone a lovely weekend!

Thankful Thursday

2011-06-30T10:32:00.003-04:00

Taking a shot at the blog entry Melis posted over at The Joys of Home Education tossed out this morning.

Top 5 Things I am Thankful for This Summer

Sunshine: I may hate the heat, but I LOVE the sun. It makes my whole day brighter when the sun is shining
Sandals: I live in mine from the time snow is (mostly) gone until the ground is cold enough for snow to stick around
Sleeping in: Since not all my children homeschool, I'm going to enjoy sleeping in!
Air Conditioning: 'nuff said!
Autumn: Knowing that my FAVORITE season is just a couple of months away! Fall in upstate/western NY is the best!

So, what's your top 5 things to be thankful for this summer?

My Poor Blog...

2011-06-29T23:34:00.002-04:00

I know I've been neglecting this space lately, and that we'll be gone away for the holiday weekend camping out at my in-laws, but look to having a LOT more action in this space starting next week!

But until then, I'll have another garden update and a {this moment} before spending the weekend with some of my most favorite people!

The Final Homeschool Village Garden Challenge Update

2011-06-29T23:02:00.008-04:00

Well, here we are, the last Garden Challenge update. That doesn't mean I won't be updating about the progress of our "garden", but I will be doing so on my own.

So, as I mentioned previously, we really had to scale down our garden plans this year so we can have a spot in our roof repaired. We ended up with just the hanging basket for cherry tomatoes, one pot with basil (that isn't looking so good), and we started some pumpkin seeds. The lettuce didn't make it once we took it outside. We keep the planters on a old, small kids table so we can move it around our half of the yard as need be.

So, being in NY, I'm not surprised that our tomatoes are looking a further behind other garden pictures I've seen online. We are JUST finishing up strawberry season here in Western NY (took the kids to a u-pick farm yesterday), where as southern states were done a month ago. So the tomatoes are looking GOOD and i have HIGH hopes of getting SOME produce from them!

Here's a photo of what's growing now!

Pumpkins

Tomatoes

Basil

This is such a big change from where we were when we started!

tomato seedlings

It has been wonderful to do this challenge, and I likely wouldn't have thought to grow ANYTHING this year. Both the kids and I have learned a lot starting just the few plants that we have, and it's something I know I'll be doing again next year (with hopefully more then what we are growing this year!)

last minute edit add-in: The website just announced that there will be ONE more link up in July! So look for us again at the end of July!

{this moment}

2011-06-24T09:07:00.003-04:00

Menu Planning Monday - June 6th

2011-06-07T09:31:00.003-04:00

A day late, oh well. It's one of those kinds of weeks where having time to breath needs to be scheduled in! Without further ado, here is this weekend menu.

Monday: YOYO (you on your own).
Tuesday: Pasta night
Wednesday: Chef salad
Thursday: BBQing turkey burgers and hot dogs, chips
Friday: Something new... I'm pouring over my cookbooks to be inspired
Saturday: Pizza night (grilled, hopefully. each time we've tried we've been rained out!)
Sunday: yet to be determined.

Make sure you go check out I'm an Organizing Junkie for more menu planning ideas and links to more blogged menus!

{this moment}

2011-06-03T07:16:00.002-04:00

{this moment} - Inspired by Soulemama.

A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember.
If you're inspired to do the same, leave a link to your 'moment' in the comments for all to find and see.

Wishing everyone a lovely weekend!

The Homeschool Mother's Journal - 4

2011-05-30T19:15:00.003-04:00

In My Life This Week:

Not much happened this past week. Just plugging along with everything. I have an interview this upcoming Saturday for a position I was too "chicken" to apply for last year. As luck would have it, I have the rare opportunity again this year.

In Our Homeschool This Week:

We're done with a lot of the "formal" stuff we are doing for the year, and focusing on a lot of interest-lead topics now. Current interest, building bikes from parts.
I'm doing a lot of looking into for items in the fall, if we continue to homeschool. We are also looking into a private Christian school she wants to attend (where she also takes flute lessons and plays in their band already). Even if we homeschool, we may consider taking individual classes from there, if we choose. It really is a nice option to have.

My Favorite Thing This Week Was:

Getting a piano from freecycle! Sure, it's FAR from perfect, but it's perfect for the kids to bang on and we're considering lessons for them. We're all pretty excited about the piano.
The weather! Sure, we're had a couple of good storms this week, but it hasn't been the CONSTANT rain that Western NY has had for the last 6 week. Definitely looking forward to more blue skies then gray.

A Photo, Video, Link or Quote to Share:

She lost 2 teeth in 3 days!

Hope everyone has a fantastic week!

Our Garden Challenge Update

2011-05-30T11:23:00.005-04:00

Another Garden Challenge post!

Too bad NYS spring weather hasn't been as cooperative :( But, that's just 1 thing I've learned, it's no joke to say that in western NY don't really plan on planting outside until AFTER Memorial Day (today). But considering I'm generally a black thumb, the fact I have anything surviving 2 months after I started seeds, is amazing! We are learning so much about growing this year!

So here are the tomato plants we have left. I gave 1/2 to my in-laws, and some are growing stronger then others, so this week we'll be planting the 3 strongest tomato plants in a planter outside. I'm not sure what we'll do about the basil and parsley (the smaller containers in the upper right). The small container in the upper left is my oldest tomato plants.

I know my husband is looking forward to these cherry tomatoes, they'll be in a nice pasta salad no doubt once we have some to pick!

We also planted a lilac bush outside this weekend. It wont be ready for another year or 2, but for now, we have it in the dirt at least!

I need to mulch around the lilac, but for now the kids have started a stone surround it (from rocks we mostly found digging up the spot we planted the bush). this is right outback next to our door, so it will be lovely to smell in and out (and in the kitchen), when it finally blooms.

We are also going to start some pumpkin seeds this week for the fall. A friend has invited us to start and grow pumpkins at her mother's. The kids are going to have a blast growing their own pumpkins this year!

So there is what we have growing! It's not as much as we had hoped for this year. Because of needing to do some roof repairs later this summer, we can't build our garden box, as debris from the roof would ruin it in a micro second. But, if we have some success with what we grow next year, we can look forward to growing more next year!

Menu Planning Monday - May 30th

2011-05-30T10:46:00.006-04:00

So, another week, another menu. We're getting close to the end of the public school year, so soon I'll be planning all meals out for the summer (it helps, really, so that kids know what NOT to sneak off with if they want their meals!). I'll likely include a snack list as well. We also seem to be keeping our 2 predictable evenings, Wednesday nights for pasta, Saturday nights for pizza. I grew up with this pattern too, I didn't realize it until a couple nights ago! Hoping once bell choir is done until fall, we can break that habit up a bit more.

And as par for course, it's proving to be a very busy end to the school year, and start of summer. We have something almost every day and/or evening, and next Saturday I'm not sure I'll be home until dinner time! It's a crazy, but good, thing :)

And today is Memorial Day, so I hope everyone is having a lovely holiday, and for those with family members in the service (home or aboard), thank you and them for their service to our country.

Monday: Steak and hot dogs on the grill, corn

Tuesday: Chef salad

Wednesday: Pasta night

Thursday: Chicken and rice

Friday: Breakfast

Saturday: Pizza night (not sure how we'll do this yet. But it's an on the go day, so MAYBE ordering in?)

Sunday: Pot Luck at a friends house (oh, what to MAKE?!?)

Make sure you pop over to I'm an Organizing Junkie for more menu planning ideas and links to other blog links!

Menu Planning Monday - May 23rd

2011-05-23T10:01:00.002-04:00

Being extremely overwhelmed and stress these past few weeks, I took a blogging break, but am back again. Here is this weeks upcoming menu.

Monday - Kids' First Mac and Cheese (sans cracker crumbs, I forgot to buy 'em)

Tuesday - Perogies with peppers and onions

Wednesday - Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo

Thursday - Incredibly Cheesy Turkey Meatloaf, mashed potatoes, corn

Friday - Chicken fajitas

Saturday - Pizza

Sunday - leftovers/fend-for-yourself night

Makes sure you go check out I'm an Organizing Junkie for more info on menu planning and links to other blogs posting their menus!

The Homeschool Mother's Journal - 3

2011-05-22T18:56:00.004-04:00

In my life this week:

I've been REALLY overwhelmed the last couple of weeks, so I took a blogging break. It was nice, and I've missed it, so I'm back again!
and RAIN! It just doesn't seem to end. It's exhausting, in the least. Add on top, we were car-less for a few days, so it was a very muted week.

In our homeschool this week:

Still doing a very unschooling schedule around here. I am not sure I like it all that much, though I am sure my daughter does. There was learning (and benchmark math test for curriculum I'm considering in the fall), most of it was discussions of stuff i knew, in particular local historical sites and the significance in American history.

Places we're going and people we're seeing:

We did make it to the science museum 3 weeks ago, and really haven't gotten out and about since, except for church, band and errands/groceries. Hoping to fit in a zoo visit in the next couple of weeks (my PS kids have 6/10 off, and we're the only local school district that closed that day, might be perfect day to hit without a crowd). Elizabeth had a Girl Scouts overnight this weekend (no encampment this year), and Andrew is signed up for summer soccer (finally old enough!)

My favorite thing this week:

THE SUN! Ok, I know I talked about the rain above (like 30 days of rain out of the last 40 days), but the sun has been out the last 2 days, to the point I now am sunburnt from mowing yesterday!

A photo, video, link or quote to share...

Andrew, singing to Karaoke Revolution: Glee. He was pretty rockin'!!

Happy Homeschooling!!

{this moment}

2011-05-20T08:25:00.002-04:00

{this moment} - Inspired by Soulemama.

Wishing everyone a lovely weekend!

For more moments, hop over to Soulemama!

{this moment}

2011-05-06T09:39:00.001-04:00

{this moment} - Inspired by Soulemama.

Wishing everyone a lovely weekend!

For more moments, hope over to Soulemama!

Menu Planning Monday - May 2nd

2011-05-02T05:38:00.004-04:00

Another week, another menu? It's getting hard to change things up. It's too warm for the cold weather meals, and too cold for the hot weather meals! Another busy week, of course, always is, right? This week not only do we have the normal bell choir practice for me, but our oldest has a band concert on Friday, and we'll be spending Saturday at my in-laws. Busy, but a good busy at least!

Monday - Slow-Roasted Rosemary-and-Garlic Chicken, potato wedges/mashed potatoes, steamed carrots

Tuesday - Out to Pizza hut for their dinner buffet (have coupon for 1/2 off 2nd adult, and it's kids eat free night!)

Wednesday - Pasta night

Thursday - (Cinco de Mayo) Chicken fajitas, chips and salsa, limeade

Friday - (Band concert night) Chicken and rice, steamed broccoli

Saturday - We'll not be home, visiting at the in-laws for the day.

Sunday - Mother's Day - I really don't know what we'll have, but I hope it's not me cooking and cleaning! Or at least not cleaning....

Makes sure you go check out I'm an Organizing Junkie for more info on menu planning and links to other blogs posting their menus!

The Homeschool Mother's Journal - 2

2011-04-29T21:36:00.006-04:00

In my life this week:

RAIN! 15 days straight of rain in our area. I HOPE we dry out soon.
And... CHAOS! Our routine is totally out of whack, for homeschooling and otherwise. Hoping we can get on tack for next week.

In our homeschool this week:

Well, spring break is over and we were back to the grind... for 2 days. Wednesday came with a long music rehearsal (back to back 2 band practices). Thursday and Friday, we "winged" it - unschooling style. Not sure how much I like the idea, as Lexi seems to need to be pushed to do anything. But, I've been reading about how kids need time to adjust from public school to homeschooling. And it can take weeks, months... sometimes even a year or more. WHOA! So, I'm trying to be patient with her and hope I'm not screwing up and letting her down.

Places we're going and people we're seeing:

We didn't make it to Rochester Museum and Science Center last weekend, so we're hoping for tomorrow, or Sunday. Our new dining set is being delivered and I still need to clean that dining room for it.

My favorite thing this week:

THE CARPET! Really, it really makes the living room more inviting, homey and just peaceful. I can see us homeschooling more in there now.

Homeschooling questions/thoughts I have:

Adjustment from public schooling to homeschooling... we've been at home a month now, and I am feeling MORE resistance from my daughter. Ex. we've been using an online program for the bulk of her work (and filling in when needed, for both subjects they cover, and for ones they don't even have). She's now refusing to use it at all (and with less then 2 months to year's end, I'm not buying anything else for this year now). She want's more hands-on, less computer/book work. Which, i WOULD LOVE to do, but finding that stuff, on my shoestring budget is proving hard. All the suggestions for stuff I've found has been for much younger kids.

I'm 110% sure I want to homeschool her in the fall again (now to get dad on board), and rather put any money for stuff for next year (like a microscope, globe, books, etc...)

A photo, video, link or quote to share...

All three kids Easter morning. Daddy took this picture on his iPod, which does not like to take decent pictures in low light.

Wishing everyone a fantastic weekend!

{this moment}

2011-04-29T09:13:00.003-04:00

{this moment} - Inspired by Soulemama.
A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember.
If you're inspired to do the same, leave a link to your 'moment' in the comments for all to find and see.

Wishing everyone a lovely weekend!

For more moments, hope over to Soulemama!

The "trying to become" a garden, Garden Update

2011-04-28T13:03:00.011-04:00

Continuing with the Homeschool Garden Challenge, we spent Tuesday working on our plants and doing some outside clean up to get ready to plant. We've had 13 straight days of rain here in the Finger Lakes region of New York, and it's not even May yet, so we haven't even thought about planting anything outside yet. It's been unseasonably warm the last couple of days, but we've had snow on Mother's Day in the past, so we won't attempt outdoor planting until after then.

We have, however, started more seeds inside!

Our cherry tomato plants. In my first garden post, these were started in an egg carton, which worked out really, really well! I wish I had taken a picture before transplanting them to these bigger start containers. We thinned out some of the weaker looking seedlings, and gave some to our neighbor as well. With all the rain we have had, the upper right corner of this pic is where water was streaming in through our kitchen ceiling just an hour after we finished transplanting these. So far, they are ok, but I'm not expecting them to make it either. We're going to finish growing these out in hanging baskets, since they are the small variety, rather then in the ground and staking them up.

Lettuce! We started some seeds inside so we're not wasting time waiting for mother nature in NY to figure herself out :) We've learned that we can actually sow these twice! Though best to start they seeds indoors as well, as they may not seed well in a hot/dry summer heat. If nothing else, we'll have 2 attempts to grow lettuce!

And here is everything in front of the kitchen window. ON the left is my oldest pot with some cherry tomatoes (they hadn't even popped up when we posted last!) and on the right is the kids herb starter. That has parsley and basil in it.

So in the next couple of weeks we'll be building our raised garden bed, and considering getting some containers and strawberry plants as well. We still have cucumbers, green beans and cantaloupe to sow, but I'm not sure as we'll do it all, as that would mean everything but the lettuce and herbs are climbers!

Mostly, the kids are I are SUPER excited about this, and hope it's a successful garden!

Menu Planning Monday - April 25th

2011-04-26T06:46:00.004-04:00

A day late, and a dollar short, I'm finally getting around to posting this! We took last week off from, well, everything, and finding it REALLY hard to get back into the swing of a routine (even if we are still working out the clinks).

Monday: Chicken Fajitas

Tuesday: Breakfast foods night

Wednesday: Pasta night

Thursday: Chef Salad

Friday: Roast Chicken with vegetables

Saturday: BBQ pizza

Sunday: BBQ anything-we-can-toss-on-a-grill

Hop over to I'm an Organizing Junkie for more info, and this week, a giveaway!

The Homeschool Mother's Journal - 1

2011-04-22T17:48:00.006-04:00

In my life this week:

We FINALLY have a living room floor! It's been busted, broken tile (growing worse) since we moved in here, and we had it replaced with carpeting. The living room is now my favorite room at home (and we have yet to paint it still!).

In our homeschool this week:

It was spring break for my public school kids, so it was spring break for my home schooler as well, except for the work we did not finish last week (we're still trying to get a routine down, esp having music/band 3 days a week). We did look at our tomato seeds nearly every day, so that's been exciting for the kids to watch! We'll be moving the seedlings from egg cartons to bigger starter pots this weekend.

Places we're going and people we're seeing:

We're (hopefully) going to the Rochester Museum and Science Center tomorrow. They have a dinosaur exhibit that will be ending May 1st, so we're going to check that out (if not tomorrow, next weekend).

We are not seeing any family for Easter (we usually don't). My mother-in-law is in North Carolina with one of my sister-in-laws who just had her 2nd baby 2 weeks ago. We called to see if my father-in-law wanted to come here, but he has his mother over while MIL is away. Since we're active in church (I'm playing hand bells that morning), we are not traveling.

My favorite thing this week:

THE CARPET! Really, it really makes the living room more inviting, homey and just peaceful. I can see us homeschooling more in there now.

Homeschooling questions/thoughts I have:

Figuring out next year. I really am reluctant to re-enroll my daughter into the public middle school, but my husband is really pushing for me to go back to working in the fall (our youngest will be in school whole days). In addition, given the problems my soon-to-be 8 yr old has been having in public school, I'm questioning homeschooling her (we had seriously considered it in the past). There is a possibility I can work and homeschool, but it really depending on things "falling into place". I'm praying very hard about this, because I am beginning to believe more and more it is the right thing for my children, and my family.

Of course the thought of homeschooling next year, for a 7th grader and 3rd grader, has me freaking out! Finding the "perfect curriculum" scares me, and knowing we plan on sending my oldest back to public school for high school, making sure I don't leave out anything she needs to learn.

A photo, video, link or quote to share...

The kids and J. playing around after the carpet installers had gone and we moved back in the furniture. Looks like a good episode of "ATTACK DADDY!!!"

I'll be taking the weekend "off" from my blog, but look forward to next week when I hope to have some wonderful posts to share.

Wishing everyone a happy and blessed Easter weekend.

{this moment}

2011-04-22T08:20:00.001-04:00

{this moment} - Inspired by Soulemama.
A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember. If you're inspired to do the same, leave a link to your 'moment' in the comments for all to find and see.

Wishing everyone a lovely weekend!

For more moments, hope over to Soulemama

Our Garden

2011-04-19T12:33:00.011-04:00

Gardening will be a new thing for us this year! I've been waiting to plant one for a few years now, and events, happenings, etc just kept us from attempting to do so.

But not THIS year.

Now, let' me explain. I'm a black thumb. I easily kill the most hardy of household plants (like my husband's spider plant), though I had a good run with some impatiens a few years ago.

SO, we're determined to try! And then I found out about The Homeschool Village Garden Challenge. Perfect!

Our Plan: To try and do a square-foot garden (SFG) for fruits/veggies and some flowers in front of our front porch (impatiens), and some herbs (basil and parsley) to grow indoors. The seeds for the SFG the kids choose were: cherry tomatoes, cantaloupe, beans and cucumbers. All climbers, so I'm not sure how we're going to do all of them.... yet.

Resources: I've been reading The All New Square Foot Gardening and reading anything I can find online. I also plan on talking to my father-in-law (who is the biggest green thumb I know).

Involvement: About a week ago the kids and I started the cherry tomatoes in a egg carton. I didn't want to spend much time or money if I couldn't get them to seed, but to our amazement, they are doing well! We'll need to thin them out and move them to something bigger then their egg cartoon soon! Just even the difference from yesterday to today has been amazing.

April 18th

April 19th
(noticing they are leaning towards the window, I flipped the carton around to help them grow straight!)

So there it is, the start to our garden. I hope you come back and watch as we (hopefully) have some great success this year!

Menu Planning Monday - April 18th

2011-04-17T22:29:00.005-04:00

Spring break week - enough said, right?
Add in our carpeting is coming in to be installed Thursday, and I haven't done a lick of painting yet.... oye. Simple meals, simple week.

And with all the kids home all week, I'll be planning out lunches and making sure to rotate snack options as well.

Monday:
L: Sandwiches, cucumber
S: Baked Ziti

Tuesday:
L: leftovers or sandwiches with applesauce or pears
S: BLTs

Wednesday:
L: macaroni and cheese, broccoli
S: Fajitas

Thursday:
L: bagel pizzas, salad
S: Breakfast

Friday: Good Friday. Keeping it to a lite fare due to fasting (I will be, not the kids).
L: sandwiches, carrots and pears
S: simple pasta (plain or with jar sauce)

Saturday:
L: Packed lunch out (heading to a science museum)
S: leftover buffet

Sunday: Easter! Slow Cooker Ham, home made mashed potatoes, not sure on what veggies yet.

As always, make sure you head over to I'm an Organizing Junkie for more menu and meal planning ideas!

{this moment}

2011-04-15T12:20:00.002-04:00

{this moment} - Inspired by Soulemama.
A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember.

If you're inspired to do the same, leave a link to your 'moment' in the comments for all to find and see.

Wishing everyone a lovely weekend!
For more moments, hope over to Soulemama.

WIP Wednesday - The Home Edition

2011-04-13T10:43:00.005-04:00

So long now since I have done a WIP Wednesday posting! I really hope to get back into this more regularly now.

So this weeks WIP is a of the home improvement kind. We are painting and getting carpeting for the living room. When we move in here, the tile was already badly deteriorated, and only became worse over the winter.

So we've pulled up the tile, and cheap (nasty) chip board under lament.

(pulling up tile)

(half the tile/chip board up)

And this weekend will be filling in holes and painting the walls (I'm going to do trim later)

With any luck, I'll paint the dinning room as well. Well, maybe next week, as the carpet will be here next Thursday!

So that is it for the WIP right now. As we had into more spring like weather, there will be lots more to share!

A list of follow WIP Wednesday participates can be found on Shelly's website, Musings From the Fishbowl - so check it out!

Menu Planning Monday - April 11th

2011-04-11T09:11:00.007-04:00

Every have a excellent plan and then life happens? Yeah, once again we are moving meals we had last week (or the week prior even) into this week.

So without further ado, here is our plan this week.

Monday: Personal sized pizzas

Tuesday: BBQ with corn and chips

Wednesday: Pasta night

Thursday: Chicken Alfredo

Friday: Tosca's Keep-it-tight Talapia with couscous and veg

Saturday: dish-to-pass supper at church following the kids Easter pageant

Sunday: leftovers?

As always, make sure you head over to I'm an Organizing Junkie for more menu and meal planning ideas!

Playing catch up...

2011-04-10T12:23:00.002-04:00

That's what i feel like i need to do on this blog. Play catch up.
Oh blog, I've been ignoring you for oh so long... I need to stop that!

So, let's do a little time line here and just move on...

Jan-Feb - was in Physical therapy for the knee issues

Feb - wedding anniversary (12 years!), husband's birthday, kid's spent February break at their grandparent's house, I have knee surgery

March - recoverying from surgry, my birthday, calendar start of spring, pull oldest daughter from public school and start homeschooling

Now: homeschooling the oldest and trying to decide options for next year, spring cleaning, and soon, Easter!

So yeah, that's it all for right now. The knee is doing great (I'll save what happened in surgery for another time), stairs/kneeling are the 2 things I can't really do yet. But I'm moving great otherwise and can almost chase the kids again! Good thing, as the weather is improving, I'll need to chase them down!

So this is me re-re-recommitting to keeping this blog updated!
tomorrow look for a muffin tin monday and menu planning monday post!

Menu Planning Monday - April 4th

2011-04-03T01:26:00.006-04:00

Here we are another week... it feels good to get back in the grove of this. We've had a major upheaval of routine this week, so again we are moving a few meals from last week, to this week.

Monday: Asian Orange Chicken with rice and broccoli
Tuesday: Breakfast
Wednesday: Pasta night
Thursday: Vegetarian chic'k nuggets and baked fries
Friday: Fish Fry (take out)
Saturday: Homemade Pizza
Sunday: Tosca's Keep-it-tight Talapia with WW couscous and veg

Lunches - so much easier to have these figured out, rather then waiting till "i'm hungry, what's for lunch?"Not going with specific days for the most part, just lunches kids can choose during the week (and that I buy for. we'll switch these up each week). I'm just listing the main item, we add whatever fruit/veg we have around not needed for dinner that night.

Ramen noodles
Sandwich (baloney, turkey, PB&J)
Chicken patty
Pizza bagels
Ravioli
Meatball sub (leftover from pasta night)

And as always, make sure you check out I'm an Organizing Junkie for more meal and menu planning ideas!

Menu Planning Monday - March 28th

2011-03-25T22:33:00.008-04:00

So last week went NOTHING as planned, and a couple of our meals are moved to this week (the weekend meals of this week). Should FINALLY be starting my post-op physical therapy, but I don't see them doing much for me at this point. I'm getting around great (as long as I don't over do it), and even some stairs are ok, depending on how tall the rise is. For example: the library stairs are ok, but the ones at home, no way. It's progress at least, so I know I'm moving in the right direction.

Lot's of big changes happening around home, I hope to write a post about it soon!

Monday: Breakfast for dinner night
Tuesday: "fend for yourself" night/left overs
Wednesday: Salad and Pasta night
Thursday: Fajitas (chicken and quorn)
Friday: Tosca's Keep-it-tight Talapia with WW couscous and veg
Saturday: Homemade Pizza
Sunday: Asian Orange Chicken over brown rice, with steamed broccoli (both chicken, and quorn)

"Baking" List:
Lemon Muffins
Banana Muffins

Make sure you check out I'm an Organizing Junkie for more menu planning ideas and links!

Menu Planning Monday - March 21st

2011-03-20T15:12:00.007-04:00

Welcome Spring!

Ok, I know that I have been away from this blog awhile. I've been focusing on my 2nd blog (more fitness based, then crafting based), in particular in talking about my knee... a LOT. I had knee arthroscopy done February 28th finally to repair my knee. It turns out that I just didn't have a meniscus tear, but TWO tears. So I've had surgery, will be starting physical therapy this week, and hopefully in a couple of months I'll be 100% again - YAY!

So, with getting back into the swing of things, I'm going to try and update this blog regularly again (at least M-W-F basis).

So without further adieu, here is out menu for the week!

Monday: Vegetarian Chik'n nuggets and french fries
Tuesday: Chicken and Rice
Wednesday: Tacos
Thursday: Pasta night
Friday: Asian Orange Chicken, rice and broccoli
Saturday: Homemade Pizza
Sunday: Slow Cooker ham and potatoes

Of course, make sure you head over to I'm an Organizing Junkie for more menu planning ideas!

Menu Planning Monday - January 24th

2011-01-25T14:24:00.005-05:00

Yes, yes... it's Tuesday - so shoot me.
And I haven't been posting....
and, and, and... oh well. Life has been getting in the way a lot lately.

So here's the menu. I promise, next weeks will be up on time, and much more interesting. There is 2 "small" holidays to celebrate!

Monday - Tacos
Tuesday - Baked Teriyaki Chicken with Rice and broccoli
Wednesday - Pasta night
Thursday - Breakfast for dinner
Friday - leftovers

And make sure to head over to I'm an Organizing Junkie for more menu planning ideas!

{this moment}

2011-01-07T09:02:00.002-05:00

{this moment} - Inspired by Soulemama. A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember. If you're inspired to do the same, leave a link to your 'moment' in the comments for all to find and see.

Wishing everyone a lovely weekend!
For more moments, hope over to Soulemama.

{this moment}

2010-12-17T05:35:00.003-05:00

{this moment} - Inspired by Soulemama. A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember. If you're inspired to do the same, leave a link to your 'moment' in the comments for all to find and see.

Wishing everyone a lovely weekend!
For more moments, hope over to Soulemama.

{this moment}

2010-12-10T07:06:00.003-05:00

{this moment} - Inspired by Soulemama. A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember. If you're inspired to do the same, leave a link to your 'moment' in the comments for all to find and see.

Wishing everyone a lovely weekend!
For more moments, hope over to Soulemama.

Menu Planning Monday - December 6th

2010-12-06T14:34:00.005-05:00

Happy St. Nicholas Day!! (ok, i admit, we didnt do anything for it this year)

So here I am, again, finally. As I am sure for everyone, life is so busy and hectic right now! Our van died 2 weeks ago, so we haven't had a regular menu since, hence, me not posting one. But as we get into the "no car" routine here for the next few weeks, I'm finding that having a set menu, even if I have to shop more often, is even more crucial!

Monday: Asian Orange Chicken over brown rice
Tuesday: Grilled cheese and soup
Wednesday: One Dish Vegetarian Dinner
Thursday: Breakfast for dinner
Friday: Baked Teriyaki Chicken with rice and green beans
Saturday: Pizza night
Sunday: clueless - will update during the week!

Giveaway: One Hook Wonder

2010-12-05T21:40:00.002-05:00

A wonderful blog I love to read, One Hook Wonder, is having a wonderful giveaway for a spiral Advent ring, made by the blogger's own husband! Here is a photo from her blog, showing you the spiral Advent ring.

Would you like to win one?

If so, hop over to One Hook Wonder for your chance to win this lovely ring. Giveaway ends this Tuesday!

{this moment}

2010-12-03T11:25:00.002-05:00

{this moment} - Inspired by Soulemama. A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember. If you're inspired to do the same, leave a link to your 'moment' in the comments for all to find and see.

Wishing everyone a lovely weekend!
For more moments, hope over to Soulemama.

My 2010 Christmas Baking List!

2010-12-01T14:22:00.004-05:00

I know I haven't been around much - I'm still pretty much recovering from Thanksgiving, and having my in-laws here for 2 days as well as my sister-in-law and her family here for the day... I'm still wiped from it! WHEW! But I think a good time was had by all...

This is a very optimistic list - and this is the order I'll make them in (stuff that i don't mind not having done, is last). I haven't included that I'll be making a batch of crinkles for a friends fundraiser, as well as cookies (what ones?!?!) for my church's annual cookie sale. These I'll be baking first, tomorrow and this weekend.

Toll House Cookies
Chocolate Crinkles
Peanut Butter Blossoms
Magic Cookie Bars
Sugar cookie Cut outs
Double Chocolate Peppermint Chip Cookies
Peanut Butter Cup Brownie Bites
Jello Coated Popcorn
Double Decker Fudge
Peanut Butter Fudge
Chocolate Fudge

I do have some small changes to a few of these recipes (no nuts in the cookies), but mostly, these are the tried and true cookies i grew up helping my dad baking at Christmas time. So....

LET THE BAKING BEGIN!!!

{this moment}

2010-11-19T08:48:00.003-05:00

{this moment} - Inspired by Soulemama. A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember. If you're inspired to do the same, leave a link to your 'moment' in the comments for all to find and see.

Wishing everyone a lovely weekend!
For more moments, hope over to Soulemama.

Menu Planning Monday - November 15th

2010-11-14T09:48:00.005-05:00

Here we are - quickly approaching the Holiday season. So many things going on right now - I am grateful that menu planning removes that "what's for dinner" anxiety! We have something EVERY night this week going on - WHEW!

Monday: Baked Potato with choice of toppings and Broccoli

Tuesday: Breakfast for Dinner

Wednesday: Spaghetti

Thursday: Wraps and leftovers

Friday: Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Shells

Saturday: Pizza night

Sunday: TBD

Make sure you swing over to I'm an Organizing Junkie for more menu planning ideas!

{this moment}

2010-11-12T08:25:00.003-05:00

{this moment} - Inspired by Soulemama. A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember. If you're inspired to do the same, leave a link to your 'moment' in the comments for all to find and see.

Wishing everyone a lovely weekend!
For more moments, hope over to Soulemama.

Menu Planning Monday - November 8th

2010-11-05T20:16:00.008-04:00

Here we are, another week. Working on healthier meals... the lack of a menu last week meant we ordered out, three times! YIKES! So, here's this weeks attempt at healthier meals (at least, compared to ordering in/take out):

Monday: BLTs

Tuesday: Chicken and Rice with Broccoli

Wednesday: Pasta and salad

Thursday: Sausages w/ veggie (not sure what veg yet)

Friday: Chicken Fajitas

Saturday: TBD

Sunday: Slow Cooker Stew

Breakfast:
french toast
homemade waffles
toast and fruit
bagel thin w/ PB (for me)

Lunch:
mac and cheese
PB&J
leftovers

snacks:
graham crackers
raisins
peanuts

As always - make sure to check out I'm an Organizing Junkie for more menu planning links, ideas and inspiration!

{this moment}

2010-10-29T09:14:00.003-04:00

{this moment} - Inspired by Soulemama. A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember. If you're inspired to do the same, leave a link to your 'moment' in the comments for all to find and see.

circa 2006

Wishing everyone a lovely weekend!
For more moments, hope over to Soulemama.

WIP Wednesday - Winter hat and a handmade holiday update

2010-10-28T00:46:00.010-04:00

So it's been awhile since I've done a WIP Wednesday post. I admit, I really have not crafted since the last posting. It's been a whirlwind of family visits, Doctor appointments for my knee, and most recently, the death of my grandmother (who's funeral is in a few hours). So while yes, it's technically Thursday at the time I post this - I haven't really slept yet, so it's still Wednesday to me :-D

First WIP I have is a new winter hat for my daughter Lizzy (age 7). This is a beautiful acrylic yarn I purchased last fall, when our local walmart was being remolded to a super center, and they placed nearly all their craft dept on clearance (boo!). Since I was working for the remodel at the time, I was lucky enough to be there to see them start marking down the yarn. I was able to get about 15 skeins of yarn at $1 a piece, instead of the $4-$5 a piece they would have been (SCORE!). This yarn is in a color that lion brand no longer makes to sells, so when I started running out, thank goodness for ebay! I have 2 skeins on the way and should be arriving this weekend. After accidentally felting her wool hat I made her 2 years ago, I decided that for now, acrylic yarn is the way to go for her.

she doesn't know yet it's for her

Now, on the Christmas gift crafting.... yeah, I haven't started. But I'm not worried either. Yet. But I have started making a more formalized list:

Lexi:
Juggle sticks (I'm buying these, but they are handmade on Etsy, not a mass produced set)
Mixed music cds (we put our entire cd collection on the computer, so we're looking into make a few mixed cds for her cd player)

Lizzy:
Doll repair (new hair, face, etc)
Pioneer dress with a matching one for her doll
Doll clothing

Andrew:
Super Why! dress-up costume (was going to be for Halloween but... hoping I have enough leftover to make a matching one for his doll)
I-Spy bag
Doll repair (wash, few stitches to fix)
New outfit for doll

for them all (most Liz/Andrew)
more crocheted play food
Crayon Roll (I'm considering this pattern over the one I previously posted)

As it is no surprise to me, Lexi is the hardest one to plan for. I'm really hoping i come up with more gift ideas for a 12 yr old, that are handmade, before much longer.

Do you have any W.I.P.s yourself? Doesn't matter the "craft", come share it in the W.I.P. Wednesday flickr pool! You can also head over to Musings From the Fishbowl for a list of fellow Wipsters ! Hope you have a crafty rest of your week!

Menu Planning Monday - October 25th

2010-10-23T12:19:00.007-04:00

Another busy week here for us. I'm returning back to handbell choir this week, after being out most of the last month. Lexi has a Halloween dance Wednesday night as well this week. And now that Lizzy is in girl scouts, her meetings are about every other Thursday, so there is that as well. WHEW - tried from thinking about it all!

My grandmother died last night, this week may not end up as planned.

One of my cookbooks (Veganomicon) is missing *weep* but thank goodness for the internet, I was able to find someone blogged the recipe I needed! Check Friday's dinner for that recipe! Gonna be pulling out that slow cooker more too...

Monday: Asian Orange Chicken, rice and broccoli

Tuesday: White Bean and Chicken Chili

Wednesday: homemade baked Mac and cheese

Thursday: Subs/sandwiches

Friday: Pumpkin baked ziti with sage crumb topping

Saturday: Pizza

Sunday: Halloween! Snack food night before trick-or-treating

Breakfast: Pumpkin waffles with Apple Cider Syrup
I also hope to try these waffles and syrup over the weekend for the kids, seems it would make a nice Halloween type breakfast.

As always, make sure you head over to I'm an Organizing Junkie for more menu planning links and ideas!!

{this moment}

2010-10-22T08:18:00.003-04:00

{this moment} - Inspired by Soulemama. A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember. If you're inspired to do the same, leave a link to your 'moment' in the comments for all to find and see.

Wishing everyone a lovely weekend!
For more moments, hope over to Soulemama.

Muffin Tin Monday - October 18th

2010-10-18T21:32:00.005-04:00

I have not done a Muffin Tin Monday lunch in a LOOOOOOONG time, and took the opportunity today to make one for Andrew before preschool. There was no theme this week - so I just went with what we had (and a nice, easy way to get back into the habit!!

(please excuse the crappy picture)

Top row (l to r): green seedless grapes, apple jelly sandwich in leaf shapes, baby carrots
Bottom row (l to r): American cheese squares, vanilla yogurt, "fruit loops"

Andrew LOVED having his lunch this way! YAY! Normally it's impossible to get him to eat!

If you like, you can go check out this weeks other muffin tin meals at the host blog: Muffin Tin Mom

Menu Planning Monday - October 18th

2010-10-14T22:49:00.010-04:00

Feeling really uninspired for cooking lately (and you think with it being cold and finally having a range I would be all about cooking... meh)

Here's what this week looks like:

Monday: Tacos (with TVP filling)
Tuesday: Breakfast
Wednesday: Pasta and salad night
Thursday: Turkey soup (bought a couple of thighs to cook for the "leftover" turkey), rolls
Friday: Grilled sandwiches and leftover soup
Saturday: Pizza night
Sunday: Asian Orange Chicken, rice, broccoli

I'll be back later to do a Muffin Tin Monday post for Andrew's lunch today!

And as always, make sure you go over to I'm an Organizing Junkie for more menu planning links!

Menu Planning Monday - October 11th

2010-10-11T08:00:00.002-04:00

My knee feels to be improving. I'm being conscience of how I'm walking, and trying to not hobble so much - and it seems to be helping. I'll know officially if I tore something, after my MRI (hoping they tell me there, and I don't have to wait to see the jerk Orthopedic surgeon again).

So, my move, push, to being more healthy. I'm going to try and include walking (and hopefully sooner rather then later, running) to my days. I have 3 hours of "alone time" Monday - Friday, I am sure i can fit in 3 days of walking/running (when i am able) in there! I'll be blogging that separately from this blog (which is mostly for my creative endeavors)... you can view that blog here: I Move

On the menu this week (and not ordering out like we did 2 times out of the last week)...

Monday: Italian sausages (mine is a vegetarian one) on a whole wheat roll, and a veggie platter to much on

Tuesday: Turkey Taco Wraps (I'll be having salad and a left over vegetarian sausage)

Wednesday: Pasta night (just plain old shells and jar sauce)

Thursday: Chicken fajitas

Friday: Left over night!

Saturday: Pita pocket personal pizza (decorate your own night!)

Sunday: Slow Cooker Ham and Mashed Potatoes (not sure what I'll be eating, but it won't be salty ham, and I dislike the texture of mashed, so i may do a baked potato for me)

I am also going to attempt to make my own whole wheat flour tortillas this week (though I did buy a package of them as a back up for Tuesday at least), and maybe finally get around to making some pear-sauce for canning... and baking some cookies for coffee hour at church.

Make sure you check out I'm an Organizing Junkie for more links to menu planning ideas!!

{this moment}

2010-10-08T07:27:00.003-04:00

{this moment} - Inspired by SouleMama. A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember.

for more moments, hope over to Soulemama.

An update, and frustration....

2010-10-07T12:14:00.004-04:00

*disclaimer: I am not using names, please don't ask.

So, yes I haven't posted here in nearly 2 weeks. Well, my menu, but not a real post.

As I may have mentioned in other posts, I somehow hurt my knee camping in July. Oh man did it HURT then! It started to get better over the summer, and with my Doctor having some screwy summer hours, didn't feel I needed to go in right away, seeing as I had to see him for my thyroid check up anyways. I re-hurt my knee about a week and a half before my appointment, I knew it had to be something more then just me being a wimp over a sprain or such.

So I did bring up the pain issue then, and he believes I have a torn meniscus. Basically, torn cartilage in the knee, and referred me to an Orthopedic surgeon.

Whom I saw and meet today.

Now, everyone local asked who I was seeing and they all have fabulous things to say to be about the surgeon. Even my own Doctor had his torn meniscus fixed by this very man. Apparently I was seeing one of the best locally I could see, and for that I was most happy. Until I met the guy.

Now, first, let me stress that I DO know I am overweight, obese in fact. This very fact does not escape me. The fact I am working towards losing weight (I had lost 25, almost 30 pounds) before being derailed by my knee, frustrates me, to NO end. I DO know that being obese increase the risks for many things, included various diseases, illness and conditions.

So to have some Orthopedic Surgeon tell me that I need to lose weight because I WILL get diabetes and heart disease, and that my weight is why my knee is shot, that it is making my knock knees even WORSE (I have knock knees, this is news to me), and that I should have Bariatric surgery done...

yeah... I'm pissed.

Dude - you meet me for 10 minutes. You do not know me, my history, and what, if any medical issues I have (just the thyroid, really. I just had lab work and the rest looks beautiful!!). And even worse, when I stood up for myself against your "fat attack", you tried to play it down and just talk about the "mechanics" of being so heavy does to my body.

YOU started the damn argument, and by golly I WILL have my say in it.

He didn't like it when I told him, under no uncertain circumstances would I ever have Bariatric surgery (I'm not 100% against it in general, I am 100% against it FOR ME). He acted like I signed my own death certificate. I am not kidding when I say this. He all but SAID that HIMSELF.

Basically I had to totally advocate for my own care. I had to tell him about my primary Doctor's opinion/diagnosis about my knee (the tear) to which he agreed to have an MRI to make sure there is no tear there. He kept stressing how my weight is making the knock knees worse, and that they really no longer do surgery to correct it, and that even if they did, I am a special high risk person to even have surgery... but if there is a tear that going in laparoscopically might be ok to fix a tear.

Dude, I just want to be mobile again.

Add in that he had to put in his 2 cents on what he thought about my husband (who is also overweight, and losing), really did it for me in hating this guy. Sorry, but this appointment was about ME and my KNEE, not my husband and his weight!

So there is it. I go for a MRI next week, and the following week I see him again for a follow up to that. Really, I am HOPING and PRAYING there is no tear, so I can be DONE seeing this doctor.

And now, that I have some insight to my knees, that maybe its the misalignment of my knee causing pain, I'm going to buy one of those braces from the store, and maybe even a new pair of sneakers.

So yeah, for everyone who loved this guy, must have loved him cause a) thy are of normal/average weight or b) didn't really deal with his "bedside manner" and maybe he just a really excellent surgeon.

Anyways....

I will get in shape, I will be healthier... if nothing else then to shut up ignorant, arrogant, assuming pricks, like the Orthopedic I saw today.

Menu Planning Monday - October 4th

2010-10-03T18:16:00.005-04:00

What a past few weeks it's been around here! After 3 months of walking around (or rather, hobbling around most of the time) with a hurt knee, I finally got myself to the Doctor office (had to anyways for my thyroid check up). My Doctor thinks I tore the meniscus. Fantastic... I now have and appointment to see an Orthopedic Surgeon this upcoming Thursday.

I'm trying to find some healthy meals that require little prep, so if when I need to send ~~my husband~~ my oldest to fix dinner, it's something quick, easy and won't require skills or patience she may not have yet.

Sunday: Oven Friend Chicken, Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes and Apple Crisp for dessert.

Monday: Perogies

Tuesday: Leftovers

Wednesday: Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Shells

Thursday: Corn dogs (yes, i know, but i see the Ortho this day, not sure what I'll be up to making)

Friday: Leftover pasta shells i dont fill wednesday with tomato sauce

Saturday: Pizza (need a new idea, for homemade, not ordering out!)

Make sure you check out I'm an Organizing Junkie for more links to menus planning ideas (maybe much more inspiring them mine!)

Menu Planning Monday - September 20th

2010-09-18T11:37:00.004-04:00

So we're are into our 2nd full week of school here, and I am really finding menu planning for the week SO helpful! Even if we don't make a dish on a particular night, we're just swapping one night for another if something comes up. It's oh so helpful!

So here's this weeks menu, it's going to be INSANE around here this week preparing for my in-laws to come and stay here with us Friday and Saturday! My mother-in-law's birthday is Wednesday, so Dinner Friday is her birthday dinner meal (and we'll have cake/etc Saturday when my father-in-law can join us, since he's still going to work)

Sunday: Asian Orange Chicken and rice

Monday: French toast, herb roasted potatoes, fresh fruit

Tuesday: Lo Mein

Wednesday: One Dish Vegetarian Dinner

Thursday: fend-for-yourself/leftovers

Friday: Eggplant Parmesan, salad, and some FRE Merlot

Saturday: Pizza

And as always, head over to I'm an Organizing Junkie for more links to other menu planning for ideas!

{this moment}

2010-09-17T06:59:00.004-04:00

{this moment} - Inspired by SouleMama. A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember.

For more moments, take a swing over to SouleMama.

WIP Wednesday - A Handmade Holiday for 2010

2010-09-15T13:15:00.006-04:00

As the title of my post might suggest, I am going to attempt to make it an handmade holiday for our family this year. This will be a rather huge undertaking considering that 1) it's mid-September and I haven't started yet! and 2) IT'S MID-SEPTEMBER AND I HAVEN'T STARTED YET! AM I CRAZY?!?!?

Yes (and I prefer it that way).

I do think that my oldest and husband might try to buck this a bit, so in fairness, my daughter's birthday (only 26 days before Christmas) will not be handmade items (she's 11 going on 20 some days, I swear it). For dad/husband, I can honestly say at this point - I'm clueless as to giving him gifts, so we'll just have to play that be ear (though i do have some idea for handmade items for him).

I've done a mostly handmade holidays before (2007 & 2008), but I'm going to try for 100% here this year. It all started when reading one of my favorite blogs (Frontier Dreams) and seeing the button for Handmade Holiday 2010. I followed to that link, and as they say, the rest is history.

So - my WIP right now is more of a battle plan! My goal is to use as much of my crafting supplies that I already have (loads of yarn, flannel, etc). Realistically, I know that for some gifts I have planned, I will need some supplies. ~~I actually want to post out my intended gifts, with links to any patterns or tutorials that I use. (maybe even coming to do that later tonight, when the insomnia hits me anyways).~~ My beginning list of gifts to make is at the very bottom of this post (web ones i can link, books ones will come later). Call it my accountability in following through with my plan here.

So that's it (for now) for my WIP post. I can't wait to get started on this. I'm really excited about it! And other then finishing a prayer shawl (I know, I know) and sewing a couple of Halloween costumes, This will be my mega WIP from now until Christmas.

If you would like more information on Wip Wednesday, click the image at the top of this post. For more information Handmade Holiday 2010, please click the button on the right side of my blog.

Fabric Doll House - I plan on making 2 of these, 1 for each of my 2 youngest.

Notebook and Pencil Holder - 3 of these, at least. One for each of my children (maybe for the nieces and nephews too, I have LOADS of ideas for them all!)

I-Spy Bag - For the youngest, the only one who doesn't already have one (and is always taking his sisters!).

Flower Stix (video tutorial in Spanish) - For the oldest (this maybe the 1 thing I bought handmade as opposed to making it, if the rubber becomes hard to find).

Day to Night Reversible Tote Bag: For the 2 youngest (I hope this makes ALL our morning and night transitions easier!) They will likely get them Christmas eve (stuffed with new PJs, a tradition for us).

Menu Planning Monday - September 13th

2010-09-13T09:00:00.002-04:00

Our first full week of school finally - and hoping we can start getting back into a regular routine around here. I have bell choir re-starting this week, and Lexi while forgoing Girl Scouts this year, may do 4H, as well as numerous clubs at school she is interested in. We haven't had a real routine in about 14 months now (we had a few, small routines at the tiny efficiency). I'm also trying to figure out a location still to put up our nature tables so we can have it ready for the autumn equinox in just over 1 week! YIKES!

After not having a range for so long, I'm just NOW getting into using it... timidly though. It's older, and there is no pilot light for the oven part at all (so i always have to use the lighter stick), and the ranges on top are known to not light all the time. Plus, a mice is on the smaller oven 1/2, so i don't dare use it! I love that it's a huge side-by-side oven, but I may start pricing gas ovens here shortly, for my piece of mind.

Sunday: Incredibly Cheesy Turkey Meatloaf and mashed potatoes

Monday: Chicken tenders and french fries

Tuesday: Pasta night

Wednesday: leftover night

Thursday: Soup and bread sticks

Friday: Pierogies

Saturday: Just the kids and I, Maybe I'll make something cool!

Make sure you hop over to I'm an Organizing Junkie for links to more menu planning ideas!

{this moment}

2010-09-10T06:34:00.001-04:00

{this moment} - A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember.

For more moments, take a swing over to Soulemama

Menu Planning Monday - August 30th

2010-08-30T09:00:00.001-04:00

Another week, another menu. I did finally use my oven for the first time - and love it! I have yet to try and bake, but I know baking will be coming in the near future. Some canning too, since the oven, a old fashioned side-by-side, has 5 burners! More then enough space to make and can some goodies before winter comes.

This is the last full week before school, so we;re going to keep things simple and easy so we can enjoy these days.

Monday: Pasta night

Tuesday: Sandwiches and Veggies

Wednesday: Homemade Mac and Cheese

Thursday: leftovers

Friday: Breakfast for dinner

Saturday: Slow Cooker Chicken Taco Soup

Sunday: Maybe i'll finally do ham and potatoes for the hubby

And for more menu planning inspiration, make sure to check out I'm an Organizing Junkie for links to other blogs!

Menu Planning Monday - August 23rd

2010-08-23T10:36:00.003-04:00

Wow, it's been awhile since I've posted here. It's been a very chaotic and busy time for us! I guess the biggest news is that... WE FINALLY HAVE MOVED! *jumps for joy* after nearly 13 months in our 1 room efficiency, we are now in a 3 bedroom apartment. But I'll save more of that for another post.

Here though, we have our menu, and now I have a actual stove and oven to use! It's hard though to plan on using it, after not having one for so long, but I'm lovin' knowing i have it to use!

This week is a tad chaotic, being that pretty much all day Thursday, we have stuff going on, Friday night we'll be out to pick up 1 kid from grandma's house, and Saturday we'll be at a birthday party. But, it's going to be a great week!

Monday: Hot dogs and macaroni and cheese

Tuesday: thinking we may go out. I have a buy 1, get 1/2 off coupon, and Tuesday is kids eat free night.

Wednesday: Snack food night

Thursday: BLTs (Lexi has 6th grade orientation that evening)

Friday: Not sure, since we'll be driving to my In-laws and back that evening

Saturday: Baked Teriyaki Chicken, rice and a veggie (something fresh and green, whatever looks good at the market)

Sunday: Grilled pizza and homemade wings

Grocery list for July26th

2010-07-26T13:51:00.002-04:00

Well, i had a number of questions about my grocery list after posting about it on Facebook. I spent about $80 to feed our family for the week (for 5 of us).

So here is my list, and a slight breakdown of what i bought (I'm not including non-food items, or the stuff for our cat)

Wal-Mart
2 packages of fajita mix
total spent: $1.56
(crazy to go there for just this mix - but its the best stuff we've found!)

Save-A-Lot
1 package of frozen Broccoli
1 jar of pasta sauce
2 cans of cream of chicken soup
sour cream
corn meal
vanilla
1 package of pre-cooked bacon
1 package of chicken breasts
total spent: $11.28
(approx - i didn't count the kitty litter, which i cant remember if it was $4 or $5)

Wegmans (over 3 trips)
heavy cream
2 packages of whole wheat Tortillas
1 red bell pepper
1 head lettuce
1# of organic carrots
1 pint of grape tomatoes
1 huge container of sliced turkey
gallon of milk
high active yeast
6 bottles of weight watchers soda
lemonade
1 loaf bread
1 container of dough
1 bag of pre-shredded cheese
pepperoni
black olives
1 box cereal
1 bunch bananas
6 mini apples
total: $55.56

grand total: $68.40

that's not including the occasional ice cream treat out ($1 a kid) during the week... so by the time that's done, $80 is about right. I'd still like to get some caramel syrup for my frappe's - but i can wait till Friday :-D

This is for meals from Saturday (which was leftovers), up though this coming Friday (with some of the items for this upcoming weekend). You can check out my menu here.

Menu Planning Monday - July 26th

2010-07-26T12:00:00.006-04:00

Ahhh... here we are again. I feel much better about this week's menu then last week. I don't know why... maybe since I'm making a couple of dishes we have not had in awhile. As well as something new, which I was striving to do every week, and have been really lacking in accomplishing lately.

I did not get all my baking done last week, though I did get blueberry zucchini muffins done. I did these last year too, but WOW, I did NOT remember there being 1 cup of oil in the recipe! With all the humidity and that oil, these were really dense and moist. So moist, I put them in the fridge to try and dry out some! But the kids still gobbled them up, though in the future, I will (and highly recommend) replacing 1/2 the oil with applesauce! I also upped the baking soda and baking powder to help them be slightly more cake like, and less bread like (doubled the soda, tripled the powder).

I also made the English Muffins. There are a few things I did differently. First, the dough was WAY too wet to roll on corn meal, so I used flour. After they doubled, but before placing them on the griddle, I had corn meal in a plate that I drudged them on each side, then placed on the hot griddle. But - they are REALLY good. I think next time I'll just skip the corn meal.

Monday: Chicken Fajitas

Tuesday: Taco Turkey Wraps

Wednesday: BLTs

Thursday: Pasta night

Friday: Breakfast for dinner night

Saturday: Pizza Pinwheels

Sunday: Chicken Divine

While I do need to keep in mind making sure I plan lunches, I'm not going to post them anymore, as usually its just whatever we have on hand, not needed for dinner. Sometimes just sandwiches, or leftovers, sometimes it's even cereal.

Remember, you can always jump over to I'm an Organizing Junkie for more menu planning inspiration!

30 day Blog Journal - Day 24

2010-07-24T13:33:00.002-04:00

I already know I hate this post. Our next topic is - where I live.

So why do I hate it? Where I live is quiet depressing, even though as a family, we make it work. But I still dream of when we can FINALLY move from here... that day can not come soon enough.

So, where so I live? In a motel efficiency room.

Despite the total lack of privacy, it's actually a quite workable room. We have a huge main room, a good sized kitchenette, and then 1 full bath. That's it. We have 1 dresser, a queen sized bed, a recliner love seat, 2 desks and a tv stand in the main room. We blow up a queen sized air mattress at night, and 2 kids sleep there, and 1 on the love seat.

In the kitchen, we have a full size fridge (ours, the room came with a dorm sized one), a shelf that holds a microwave (theirs) and our toaster oven and a space for 1 other small appliance (usually, my frappe maker). We have 1 lower cupboard that holds the skillet, the griddle, electric kettle, and various pans. Another long shelf holds out dinnerware and cups. We have a storage cube set up to hold dry/canned foods, and on top of the fridge holds 2 crock pots. Yeah, we have a LOT of kitchen appliances here, but without a proper stove/oven, with all those we really make do in having more then microwaved meals all the time.

Thankfully there is a nice big grassy area for the kids to play in... and ironically, we are not the only family here. Another family of 5 shares another room, smaller then ours.

I can't complain. We are all here together, and while this is not ideal, we really make it work for us. Staying in this community has been important to us. We have actually looked to move away, and all attempts have failed. I don't know if its density or God or what, but i truly feel as we are meant to stay here.

But I still long for a bedroom that is not also the living and dinner space, and not shared with 3 children, and a proper kitchen (how I MISS really baking!).

{this moment}

2010-07-23T20:21:00.003-04:00

30 day Blog Journal - Day 23

2010-07-23T10:54:00.002-04:00

So close to the end - I can taste it!

Today's topic is a YouTube video.

Again, how vague.

I have only 1 cool video to share. My son recorded it last march in our old apartment. He was not quiet 3 at the time.

He's so funny.

Join me again tomorrow when i post about where I live.

30 day Blog Journal - Day 22

2010-07-22T13:07:00.002-04:00

Internet connection stunk yesterday, so we'll play a little catchup here posting yesterday and today's 30 day blog posts (can you tell, i want them to be DONE!)

~~Today's~~ Yesterday's topic was - a website

Well, that's vague enough, isn't it? I visit LOADS of websites! I am sure anyone who reads this, does also.

So, where does that leave me in writing this? I don't know. It would be simple enough to list my most frequented website (facebook) and call it a day. But what sense is that? I think this challenge is more then just the simple 1 word answer (or maybe it's not?). So, instead of the most well known page in my bookmarks to list - I'll go with what i think maybe be a relatively unknown know to the vast majority... Ravelry.

Now, for anyone in the know in the crochet and knitting communities, KNOWS this website. Mention it to anyone who is not (or is not married to one who is), and you get the blank stare of death.

First - this site rocks! When it first was started, there was a month plus waiting list to get approved as a user - DANG! it was the longest time in my LIFE (ok, maybe waiting for my babies to be born was, but you get my point, right?)

The website is basically a social community for those who are into fiber arts (crochet, knit, spinning, etc, etc...). You can search for patterns (there are THOUSANDS, both free, and paid), join groups and post on their forums, and even catalog your projects, yarn stash, have a queue of items you want to work on, and favorites from other users. You can friend other users, and even buy and sell among them.

Personal - I LOVE seeing my WIPs (work in progress) and cataloging my FOs (finished objects, as often what I make, I give away.I've gotten private messages left asking who I've made something (just last week, is was the beards on knit gnomes I made 2 years ago).

So - that's the website I am sharing with you. If you are into fiber arts, or know someone who is - share it! And if you join (it's free!), feel free to look me up on there. My user name is kjoslyn78

Stay tuned for our next topic, a YouTube video.

30 day Blog Journal - Day 21

2010-07-20T11:48:00.003-04:00

Oh, how I love this day... as I do not have to go on and on with an opinion and such. Today's topic is - a recipe.

The question is - WHAT recipe? Do i share one of my favorite things to cook? or bake? something new i recently tried? or a tried and true favorite? decisions, decisions...

I'm going with a non-cook wrap recipe. a tried and true around here that my crew love. And in the hot, humid summer heat that we experience here in NY, no-cook anything is a blessing.

Taco Turkey Wraps
recipe as found on allrecipes.com

2/3 C sour cream
2 tablespoons taco seasoning
flour tortillas (about 6 - 8" tortillas)
1 C of shredded Mexican blend cheese OR cheddar cheese
1/2 pound of thinly sliced deli turkey breast
salsa

In a bowl, combine sour cream and taco seasoning. spread onto tortillas. Sprinkle with cheese, top with turkey and roll. Serve with salsa if desired.

We also add lettuce to our wraps also. You could experiment with other fillers too! My kids and husband gobble these UP! and are perfect to make ahead and pack in a picnic lunch for a day out.

I hope you enjoy this recipe, and come back tomorrow where the topic is a website.

Menu Planning Monday - July 19th

2010-07-19T18:31:00.005-04:00

Here we are again. As much as I do enjoy meal planning, it can become a bit, monotonous. Especially in the summer, with all the kids home. I feel like I am constantly making someone SOMETHING to eat. Let's not forget that with so many "picky" eaters, mostly me, that coming up with something everyone will eat (and not waste food), is a challenge. I HATE wasted food, I rather make everyone a different sandwich then make a great big meal only 1 or 2 (out of 5) will eat.

So - here it is:

Monday: BLTs (we ended up not having these last week, as the hubby was out for his final tux fitting)

Tuesday: Breakfast for dinner (last time i did pancakes, so we'll be going for french toast this time)

Wednesday: Pasta night

Thursday: Hot dogs on the grill, salad, maybe some watermelon too

Friday: Chicken fajitas

Saturday: Pizza night (thinking of trying grilled pizzas - yum!)

Sunday: we'll see where the week takes us!

Breakfast:
toast
eggs
cereal
pancakes

Lunches:
sandwiches (various, from your typical PB&J to grilled cheese, etc..)
mac and cheese

It's suppose to rain either Friday or Saturday, so I'm looking to doing some baking (in the evening, after kids are asleep, so it may survive a day or two).. esp after the HUGE zucchini my mother-in-law sent home with us!

chocolate zucchini muffins
blueberry zucchini muffins (from this bread recipe - works great as muffins)
homemade hot pockets (ham and cheese, and using home made dough)
Breakfast puffs (made ahead w/ the drizzle)
and if I get ambitious, English Muffins

and as always, make sure you hop over to I'm an Organizing Junkie for my menu planning inspiration!

30 day Blog Journal - Day 20

2010-07-19T17:29:00.002-04:00

Only 10 more "days" to go! YAY!

Today's topic is - a hobby if mine.

I already touched on this in my last entry - my talent of being creative. I love to knit and crochet, and often have more then 1 project going at a time.

But, I'll touch on another hobby of mine.... baking.

Oh how I LOVE to bake.

Being sans oven right now makes it a tad more difficult then usual. I hope we are able to remedy that soon, but until then, i can do little baking. Muffins , cupcakes, even small square or round cakes.

In the past i've baked all our own breads (both quick breads and yeast breads), cakes, cookies, muffins. I've done "special diet" baking, including vegan (no animal products at all) as well as tried gluten-free baking (Lisa liked those cupcakes! heck, so did I!)

But I really shine during the holidays. I bakes some wheres around 7 different kinds of cookies, as well as making candy (esp fudge... and most esp peanut butter fudge!). as well as special holiday breads... my mouth is watering just thinking about it!

I don't know if you all consider baking a hobby, but i most certainly do!

Technical Difficulties

2010-07-16T11:11:00.002-04:00

Please excuse my lack of blogging the past few days, esp after posting that I would be blogging again! Our DSL has taken to not staying connected for more then a few minutes at a time since a huge storm passed through here Tuesday evening.

Unfortunately with a wedding and a baptism to attend this weekend, we are not going to even have the change to get to a payphone (since our phone is Vonage, which is VoIP, can't use that if we cant stay connected - UGH!) to call and complain about this.

Hopefully I'll be back up and running smoothly on here again soon!!

{this moment}

2010-07-16T10:44:00.003-04:00

{this moment} - A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember.

For more inspiring moments, swing of to SouleMama.

30 day Blog Journal - Day 19

2010-07-13T07:50:00.008-04:00

After my much needed break from reality, here I am, back at finishing the 30 day blog journal entries.

Today's topic - a talent of mine.

First, what is talent? Merriam-Webster defines talent as a characteristic feature, aptitude, or disposition of a person or animal, or the natural endowments of a person. Wiki says that talent (in the sense of natural ability or giftedness) is not the same as skill, which is a learned process, and one which is enhanced or inhibited by an underlying talent.

So, a natural ability or endowment, and not a learned skill. So, what is my talent?

After posing the question on Facebook, and doing some thinking, I would have to say my strongest talent is being creativity.

In my teens, this would have been focused in music... I played the flute (but stopped after 2 years due to practice time being too early in the am, I never got back into it), sang (at school and in church, both in a choir, as well as few solos) and played hand bells at church.

As this has changed a bit as I've grown. Lacking time to hone my musical skills, I've taken up working in fiber arts. While I've known how to crochet since I was 8 or 9, I've really only done well with it, since becoming a mother (and naturally felt the need to prepare for my baby). Since I re-started working with fibers 11 years ago, I've nailed down counted cross stitch, and finally learned to knit 2 1/2 years ago. I've done a little sewing (scrub tops and skirts, doll diapers...). My hope is to learn needle felting next. I've also done some pretty creative baking, something I think I get from my father (who was a fantastic baker). And, something that I think helps keep me grounded, I started to play hand bells after years of not doing anything musically. Music really does touch my creative soul.

Without having written this post, without really thinking about it, I may have said I am talent-less. But I truly don't believe anyone is. We all have talents, it just takes recognizing, honing, and using them .

Come back tomorrow, where our topic will be... a hobby of mine.

Menu Planning Monday - July 12th

2010-07-12T19:30:00.003-04:00

Here we are again. Finally after the craziness of planning and going, then returning form our vacation to my brother-in-laws river lot in PA (see pic in previous post - it was lovely there!), We are back into a routine.

Even with it being summer, we're tremendously busy! This Saturday my husband will be a groomsman in his brother's wedding. My 7 yr old is in summer reading camp at school for the next few weeks, and my oldest has book club twice a week as part of her summer reading project for school. I'm also assisting again this year with our local Vacation Bible School - I LOVE IT! Again, working on games for the kids (last year I was in charge of the preschool class games) with a lovely lady, I have yet to meet, but I am sure it will be a blast. It's so inspirational to work with children! I know what it does for my faith...

but I digress... we're menu planning! So I have time to take all the kids to their things and still feed them great meals to keep them healthy and growing.

Monday: BBQing hot dogs, pasta salad and chips

Tuesday: Breakfast for dinner

Wednesday: Pasta, salad

Thursday: BLTs, fruit salad

Friday: Chicken Fajitas

Saturday: Wedding day - who knows where we'll be at dinner time!

Sunday: Not sure, we'll be driving to and from my in-laws to pick up the youngest rug rat... so something simple and easy, maybe pizza

Lunches this week will include:
leftovers from dinner the night before
Nutella and fluff sandwiches (the girls LOVE these!)
veggie and fruit tray
"brunch"

As always, make sure you hop over to I'm an Organizing Junkie for more menu planning inspiration!

Back into the swing

2010-07-12T16:24:00.010-04:00

For the (very few) reads of my little blog, you may have noticed i haven't written in over a week. Mostly due to being out and spending the holiday with family. It was lovely and nice... and I'd give just about anything to be back there now (though 4 days does seem to be the limit for a few family members, esp sans shower and laundry abilities! LOL)

our view off the camp lot looking at the west branch of the Susquehanna river

some fishing

some boating

some swimming

some fireworks

and of course a big bonfire

Rather then try to play catch up on all my posts I normally would have done, I'm just going to start fresh.

I hope everyone had a happy, healthy and safe holiday!!

{this moment}

2010-07-09T11:49:00.002-04:00

30 day Blog Journal - Day 18

2010-06-29T20:29:00.002-04:00

Today's topic is - my wedding.

My wedding was not a huge affair. Our original Date was selected for June 19th, 1999. After having a preemie at the end of 1998, and my husband changing jobs that would result in us getting insurance, you hastily moved the date to the Friday before, February 12, 1999.

We don't have many pictures of the event, as we did things very simply and last minute. In fact, I only told my dad about the nuptials 7 hours before we were to wed! Any young ladies reading this, I HIGHLY suggest you give your father more notice then that! (a few months, preferably!) And what photos i do have are currently in storage and needing to be scanned into the computer.

Given though what my husband and I have endured, the obstacles set before us, I don't think anyone (even ourselves) imagined that at 11 years and counting, we were still be here, together and strong. We've had ups and downs, I think ever marriage does. But, we were 20-somethings, with a child, and little else when we married. Surely accord to statistics we should be divorced by now, maybe even divorced from a 2nd marriage!

But here we are, and I like it that way.

30 day Blog Journal - Day 17

2010-06-29T20:17:00.003-04:00

Sorry this is a day late - We have been busying ourselves for camping this upcoming weekend.

Today's topic is a piece of art. This is hard for me. I don't hate art, but music seems to be my preference as far as my artistic ability, and interest.

But, now and again a few things catch my eye, and this piece i saw online, did just that.

Escher's "Relativity" in LEGO®

And while I know "Relativity" is a piece of art of it's own accord, the scene kind of reminds me of a part near the end of the movie Labyrinth (which I LOVED as a youngster).

Our next topic is my wedding/future wedding... Guess I better get to it and catch back up!

30 day Blog Journal - Day 16

2010-06-27T17:24:00.004-04:00

So here we are, another day, another post. Almost makes you happy that after today, i only have 13 days left, doesn't it?

So today is a song that makes you cry (or nearly). And my choosing is the Moody Blues song I Know You're Out There Somewhere.

Those who know and are close to me in real life know that my dad died in August 2003. And my dad was a HUGE Moody Blues fan... HUGE I tell you! And while I know it's a continuation of the love song "Your Wildest Dreams", the chorus really spoke to me in my grief and in missing my dearest father.

I know you're out there somewhere
Somewhere, somewhere
I know you're out there somewhere
Somewhere you can hear my voice
I know I'll find you somehow
Somehow, somehow
I know I'll find you somehow
And somehow I'll return again to you

I do think I will see my dad again, I do believe in an after life. Every day I miss him, and i do cry when i hear this song (or really, almost anything Moody Blues, because that was such a "him" thing as was calling him Buddha). I love you dad

my dad holding a newborn me - circa 1978

Dad holding my first born - Nov 30 1998

Come on back tomorrow, where the day's topic is an Art piece.

30 day Blog Journal - Day 15

2010-06-26T23:39:00.005-04:00

Yeah! The half way point in this journey though a 30 day blog journal!

Today's topic: Your dream house.

like I haven't been thinking about a dream house for.. oh.. DECADES!

Now, when most people describe their dream home, it's huge. Ginormous even. My idea though, it a lot more down to earth. I don't believe bigger is always better, and homes are blew up since I was a child. Too large and impersonal. I want a small, cozy... home.

Anyone who has thought of a small home, may have heard of the The Tumbleweed Tiny House Company.

This is a company that specializes in tiny and small homes. Many of the homes are even built right on trailers! And while I wouldn't want a house THAT tiny with a family (100 sq feet or smaller), but small home is what I have in mind.

Lucky me - they make some "bigger" houses too! And I have had my eyes on their B-53 design for as long as I can remember now.

Their biggest stationary house to date, the B-53 is a 2 bedroom house, at 743 sq ft. There is the option for a 3rd bedroom, making the total 837 sq ft. But if you look at the plans, it does not seem lacking to me! The bedrooms are plenty big, especially the 2 upstairs (the add on one is slightly smaller), and while the kitchen seems small, for some, I grew up in a tiny kitchen with not much more space then the fridge, stove/oven unit, sink, and a couple of cupboards and zilch counter space. I love the built-in kitchen booth, and you could even expand the space if you decide to build this over a full basement, rather then a simple foundation.

What isn't there to love there? I already know that I would like the exterior to be some fake log looking siding, and as much real hard wood inside as humanly possible, maybe not full walls, but 1/2 wall, have drywall maybe. I'd like to paint a little too. Solar power/heating as much as possible... and then sit this on some acreage with plenty of trees, and land to garden.

Now if i could only win the lottery :-D

Come back tomorrow for... a song that makes me cry. oh joy *insert sarcasm here*

{this moment}

2010-06-25T18:17:00.003-04:00

{this moment} - A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember.

For more moments, take a swing over to Soulemama

30 day Blog Journal - Day 14

2010-06-25T12:36:00.004-04:00

Apparently I'm playing blog catch up today.

Today (for actual today) is about a non-fiction book. And the last non-fiction book I actually finished is The Simple Rules for Christian Living by Jeanne Torrence Finley.

Three Simple Rules for Christian Living is a reflection of the three principles of Christian living as illuminated by John Wesley in the General Rules, and revisited in the book Three Simple Rules: A Wesleyan Way of Living by Rueben Job. Using the words of John Wesley, Ruben Job, and the Bible, the book reflects what those rules may have meant during Wesley's time, as well as what they can mean to us today. The book is presented as a six week study in which the three rules; Do No Harm, Do Good, and Stay in Love with God; are studies and presented in how to practice them in daily life. The study presents an early Wesleyan understandings of spiritual disciplines that can transform us and the world that we live in, and leas us to a more faithful way of living as a disciple of Jesus Christ.

I did this as a Lenten study via facebook with the church our family attends this year. And it was a real eye opener on many levels. If you ever have the chance to partake in reading or following a study using this, I highly suggest it.

Please come back tomorrow, where I will elaborate on my dream home.

30 day Blog Journal - Day 13

2010-06-25T10:43:00.006-04:00

~~Today's~~ Yesterday's topic - a fictional book.

I'm assuming that this is suppose to be about a fiction book I've recently read, as we've already covered all the "favorites" during the first few posts for this 30 day blog journal.

So that last fictional book I read was The Five People You Meet In Heaven by Mitch Albom.

Here is one summary from a review, as shown on Amazon.com

Wearing a work shirt with a patch on the chest that reads "Eddie" over "Maintenance," limping around with a cane thanks to an old war injury, Eddie was the kind of guy everybody, including Eddie himself, tended to write off as one of life's minor characters, a gruff bit of background color. He spent most of his life maintaining the rides at Ruby Pier, a seaside amusement park, greasing tracks and tightening bolts and listening for strange sounds, "keeping them safe." The children who visited the pier were drawn to Eddie "like cold hands to a fire." Yet Eddie believed that he lived a "nothing" life-gone nowhere he "wasn't shipped to with a rifle," doing work that "required no more brains than washing a dish." On his 83rd birthday, however, Eddie dies trying to save a little girl. He wakes up in heaven, where a succession of five people are waiting to show him the true meaning and value of his life. One by one, these mostly unexpected characters remind him that we all live in a vast web of interconnection with other lives; that all our stories overlap; that acts of sacrifice seemingly small or fruitless do affect others; and that loyalty and love matter to a degree we can never fathom.

I really enjoyed reading this book, and finished is in only about 3 hours, so it's not a very long read.

Be sure to come back, as our next topic is on a non-fiction book!

30 day Blog Journal - Day 12

2010-06-23T23:06:00.002-04:00

Well, this is an easy topic, considering I have OCD! Mostly I am thankfully that it doesn't rule me to the point of needing medication to control myself (think excessive hand washing till having sores and bleeding, not leave w/o checking the stove 1,000,000,000 times, etc). Most of my OCD habits are space defined and food related.

So, to pick just one, I'll pick a easy one. I have to chew food equally on both sides of my mouth. If I take a bite with the left side, I then do so on the right side. If I pop 4 green M&Ms, in my mouth (because I could never pick up M&Ms randomly), I automatically chew 2 on each side... and don't get me started with Reece's pieces! I eat 3 on each side at a time, 1 of each color, for as long as I have enough to split them up so. And so on and so forth....

Yeah... weird right? And that is just 1 OCD trait I have.

So tomorrow I'll be back with a fictional book, I'll pick something I've read recently.

30 day Blog Journal - Day 11

2010-06-22T22:20:00.003-04:00

Ok - again I admit that 99.2% of the time I'm the one behind the camera. But today's topic, a recent picture of myself, is gonna spoil that.

I'm the fluffy one holding the extremely cute birthday boy.

Come back tomorrow for a non-photo related post! I'm overjoyed with that prospect!