Cowboy Boots & Baby Booties

Pinky Pink Pink

2012-01-30T12:41:00.000-06:00

No....I didn't find out if we are having a boy or girl (March 14...countdown begins)

I'm talking about Pink Eye....you know the fun stuff....those green boogery gorgeous eyes....where your children wake up screaming they are blind because they can't open their eyes.

Well enter Reid....and then he gave the gift to Lily. It's not pretty around here....

Of course the rest of us are freaking out at every itch of our eyes....Last night hubs cracked me up b/c he said "Ohhh nooo I just touched my eye....ohhh no I'm soooo gonna get it"

Then I got a txt from oldest child at school telling me his eyes itched....then he txt back no they were fine....then he txt he thought they looked swollen.

It's like when you see someone with bugs crawling on them....you think they are crawling on you and start itching too....it's contagious

Add to all of that....the 2 lil ones have nasty coughs (raises hand too) and the pretty ugly nose that constantly runs green rivers. Oh add to that...a fever....swollen glands....yep we got it all here! Nothing but a party over here. (calgon save me.....b/c night time sucks around here)

Got dr's appt this morning for both.....hoping they can FIX my kids since Dude's birthday is Wednesday....and his party (that I have ohhh so been getting ready for) is Saturday.

*Note....just got back from doc. No strep...no rsv....just pink eye (doh).

*a few of you were asking about the Laminator I used for my preschool folder projects....

Here it is on sale on Amazon for a great price of $30

I bought a whole lot of pouches at Target....wallet to 4x6 size to the 8x11 size.

Here are some of the stuff I've been making....I am still searching for Opposite stuff and a clock...Lily is obsessed with clocks (geez wonder where she gets that haha) and what the hands are pointing too.

Not the prettiest folders considering the fact that I had to tape the objects down. No glue was working on the laminate. But Lily is happy with them. I think Reid and baby 6 will too!

Cow Gas, Elephant Poop, and Table Talk

2012-01-25T10:34:00.000-06:00

Did you know that an elephant poos 80 lbs of poo a day?

Did you know a cow produces 200 times more gas than a person a day?

Did you know you lose brain cells every time you sneeze (I'm still wondering about that one)

Thanks to Pinterest we will know all the answers to these and more.

Who doesn't like to have your kids talking about their day? Or just talking in general. We have family dinner every single night between 5:15-5:30. I usually ask the kids what good and bad thing happened that day but sometimes I get the old "Nothing"

I saw a friend pin "jar of questions" on Pinterest and I was intrigued.

So off I went and printed out as many as I could (until my eyes crossed)

They are not all trivia questions (although those are my favorite)

Some are to get'cha thinking.

For instance....one said..."You are on your way to work and see a cat drowning in the lake....If you stop you will be late for work and you remember your boss said if you are late one more time you will be fired. What do you do?" Now this is soooo not a question for ppl who hate cats is it? haha

I'm still debating on whether or not a cockroach can live for weeks with it's head cut off....I mean it's not like I'm gonna get a cockroach and experiment to see if it's right or not.

If you are looking for fun table talk....I suggest you head over and print this fun

Source: howdoesshe.com via Laura on Pinterest

I've also been a busy bee printing and laminating Preschool Folder activities for Miss Thang....

Pinterest you beautiful beautiful thing....

Also Thank You Lord for the rain....been raining since 5pm last night....look at the greenbelt.....it's flooded! Good day.....we need those rivers to swell!!!!!

My favorite days are gray rainy ones....Nothing like snuggling at home with your little babies!

Pregnancy Cravings....Family At My Mercy

2012-01-24T09:19:00.000-06:00

The thing with pregnancy cravings is that my family is at my craving mercy since I am the one that does all the cooking. 12 weeks yesterday...time is flying

Last week I was thumbing through my hoards of magazines and I ran across this

All of the sudden I was hit....you know the kind of hit where you want to cry about food....I mean I know it sounds so silly....but that dish was all I could think about. I wanted that food and I wanted it now. (I'm not even a big sausage fan...unless it's ground mixed with beef for my meatballs or loaf).

Last night I prepared that dish and let me just tell you....from the first bite I was shouting with joy! Score for pregnant chick. Yes I went for 2nds (and might even have pulled some into a dish for my lunch today when no one was looking)

Did I mention I WILL be making it again next week. I can't help it ....it was that good.

So print the recipe...(off the Johnsonville site mind you) and getta cooking.

The only difference in the recipe....I added chopped onion to the bell pepper. The bell pepper totally made the dish.

Countdown to Mini Me's birthday. 2 more days. She delivered her invites yesterday and they turned out so cute.

I tried my hardest to get the balloons to float....but no matter what paper I used the darn cones were just too heavy and weighed it down. So we ended up putting then on sticks too and tying tulle to the bottom.

The look on the girls faces when she went knocking at their door was cute. They would smile so big!!! I hope her party is a bigger success than last year....since everyone cancelled last minute .....and the only girl that did show was over 1 hr late. (deep sigh) Thankfully she has a better group of friends this year....

Here's Mini Me with her Invites.....

Party Planning Mode....Fun Ideas....

2012-01-23T09:16:00.001-06:00

I didn't realize how crazy it could be having 2 kids that have birthdays just 5 days apart. Mini Me's is first....I can still remember her telling me NOT to have Reid on her birthday. Good thing I complied huh!!

So this Friday after school she is having an Ice Cream Parlour/Soda Shoppe Party. Thanks to Pinterest for some great ideas.

Her Invitations looked something like this photo on the right....(I'm putting the invitation inside the balloon...they have to pop it to get it out)

Source: spearmintbaby.com via Laura on Pinterest

I thought this was a gorgeous table display for the party too.....Thanks again Pinterest

Source: ucreateparties.com via Laura on Pinterest

and I'm loving the sign and print of this party too...

Source: eatdrinkchic.com via Emilee on Pinterest

I'm having a difficult time finding banana split boats containers last minute...any ideas of where you have seen some?

As for dude......I decided against the Tractor theme and I'm going with farm.....Here is what I came up with for the invites....

First I printed the info on a farm card.....then layered it with burlap and rolled up and tied with ribbon....

then I tied that all up in a bandana and tied to a stick for a little hobo bag.....

I love little Dude's face....he was soooo happy (he's always happy) I love his scrunched up face!

These hobo sacks were a fun way to deliver the invites door to door....

I can't wait to start decorating....all the 'food' is farm related .....I love parties!

My Sweet Tooth Is Killing Me

2012-01-19T08:50:00.000-06:00

Yesterday was Wednesday....(I know you need no reminding...maybe I do) and you know that meant dinner with the inlaws.

I made French Dip sandwiches.....there is just something about a massive piece of beef slow cooking in broth and onion soup all day that gets your mouth a water'n. Or when you shred that beef and put it on gorgeous fresh soft sub rolls and melt some swiss (or provolone) over it.....and dip them in the juices...mmmmm. I was even craving salt and vinegar chips....so that made the perfect side kick. It was all about me yesterday or so it seems.

For dessert I had been craving that picture on the side of the nilla wafer box....you know the one....with the eggnog eclair on the side...Well I didn't want Eggnog....I wanted a toasted coconut eclair. (think coconut cream pie)

So what does any pregnant chick do? She makes 2....(well I had to anyways....we've got a crowd to feed and I'm glad I made two...there was none left) I made a regular (none eggnog) and coconut one.

Oh sweet goodness if I hadn't died and gone to heaven when I sampled them.

Here's what you need.....

1 pkg. (8 oz.) PHILADELPHIA Cream Cheese, softened

2 cups cold milk

1 pkg. (3.4 oz.) JELL-O Vanilla Flavor Instant Pudding

1 tub (8 oz.) COOL WHIP Whipped Topping, thawed, divided

78 NILLA Wafers

2 squares BAKER'S Semi-Sweet Chocolate
coconut extract
shredded coconut

Here's what you do....

BEAT cream cheese in large bowl with mixer until creamy. Gradually beat in milk. Add dry pudding mix, coconut extract; beat 2 min. Gently stir in 1-1/2 cups COOL WHIP and a handful of coconut.(I think it was close to about 3/4 cup...I was eyeballing)

LINE 9x5-inch loaf pan with plastic wrap. Arrange 15 wafers, top-sides down, on bottom of pan; cover with 1/4 of the pudding mixture. Repeat layers 3 times. Top with 15 of the remaining wafers. Refrigerate 3 hours.

INVERT dessert onto plate; remove plastic wrap. Microwave chocolate and 1 cup of the remaining COOL WHIP in microwaveable bowl on HIGH 25 sec.; stir until chocolate is completely melted and mixture is well blended. add tbsp of coconut. Mix well. Cool 1 min. Pour over dessert. Garnish with remaining COOL WHIP and wafers. Toast some coconut under your broiler and sprinkle on top of that....(yes I like coconut)

If you are not a fan of coconut (shame on you) then just omit all the extract and shredded coconut steps.

The chocolate topping was sinfully good....I was shocked at how sweet/bitter it tasted and complimented the dessert perfectly.

I wish my picture was better....but I only remembered when there was a small section left....boo to me...

I really need to watch my sweets/carbs. I've decided I'll have carbs at one meal a day and sweets every Wednesday. This way I don't deny myself and binge AND can hopefully keep my weight gain down this pregnancy. So far I haven't gained a lb. (granted I started 10 lbs heavier so I HAD BETTER NOT HAVE GAINED) I usually ALWAYS gain 40 lbs...10 the first 10 weeks. My midwife said it was possible to only gain 15....but I would really have to watch my carbs and make sure I eat low to moderate foods on the glycemic chart and keep my liquids to waters and tea. Today I have failed already.....(deep sigh) I had toast and nutella for breakfast....(I suck)

I'm wondering where all the other pregnant momma's are this time around....the last time I was pregnant (points to Dude) there were 4 other momma's on my street and a handful bloggy friends.....am I alone this time around? Share the bump!

You're My Hero = Code for You're a Freak

2012-01-18T08:05:00.000-06:00

When we told our friends....(or pretty much everyone) that we were expecting baby #6, a bunch of people kept saying I was their hero. What did that even mean? Hero for what?

I finally had to ask everyone...

Is that just code for "You're a freak for having 6 kids..better you than me"??? kind of hero?

Everyone says it takes patience to have lots of kids....nope just organization. There are plenty of days I have zero patience for anything. Just like anyone with 1 or 10 kids. Sometimes there are just those days. I find that if I can keep the routine then the house can run smoothly. None of the kids have to ask what they need to be doing or when is dinner...b/c those things happen at same time everyday. (ok some days have hiccups...one needs to be able to go with the flow too)

They say I must have come from a huge family myself. Nope....My mom just had my older brother (by 2 yrs) and me.

They say I must have always wanted a big family....Nope, never really gave it much thought....I just really love being a mommy and each baby has been a blessing when he/she comes.

They say I must be totally loaded.....Nope far from it....Where some families go on exotic vacations with their hubs and 2 kids every winter or summer....or where their kids wear all the designer labels....or they go on dates every weekend with their spouse....or they get to drive the latest flashy pretty new car...Nope...not me. I figure those things will come later in life for me. Right now I instill different kind of life things...I'm instilling family fun....

I love having a pack of kids surrounding me....You know it's funny...when I see a mom with 4 or more kids I think "wow...that's a lot of kids". Then I have to stop and smack my head.....ummm hello Laura...you're about to have 6. I guess it just doesn't phase me that I've got a lot of little rugrats....

I had my first midwife appt yesterday.

Everything went lovely!! Nothing like hearing that precious baby's heart beating....telling you there is yet again another sweet life you've created living inside you.

The visit was definitely a hoot. I'm very grateful my midwives love all 'their' babies as much as they do. My little ones were having a ball in the room with us. Reid was sitting on my chest during half of my exam.....and the other half Betty blew up some hand gloves and the kids played with their "turkeys"

I'm looking forward to another 4 weeks when little bean is heard again....

Mark your calendars....March 14th (I'm sure I'll be reminding you again)....but in 8 weeks we get to see how big Little Bean is and find out if I'm growing a Cowgirl or Cowboy....(looks like from the poll the girls are winning)

Us + 10 = Chaos

2012-01-17T08:20:00.001-06:00

Yesterday was a holiday for school, so my neighbor next door....(you know the one with 5 kids also) and I decided to use this holiday to our advantage and schedule a little "Mom's Lunch sans kids" time. We planned it weeks in advance and were giddy with excitement that the day was fast approaching.

We may or may not have txt a few times a day since Friday with the countdown of how many days until our 'girls lunch'. We may or may not have talked about it for days on end too. We may or may not get out that much (grins)

The day of we both agreed we would try to get the babies down so our big kids would only have the 3 yr olds to contend with. Well as luck would have it...her baby wanted to go down super early and mine wouldn't go down at all.

Enter daddy to the rescue. (remember he works from home....and hers was home too this day) So my sweet hubs plucked Dude Friend from my arms and said..."hurry go eat and have fun....." Don't have to tell me twice. Her family decided to play a joke on her and txt the baby woke and she needed to come back....(5 mins after leaving) ...Hardy Har....

Off to lunch...and we sat and dined on chips and salsa...and fajitas and chatted....We may or may not have talked about our kids. I mean heck fire ...we have 5 of them. I'm in the process of convincing her to jump on the 6 kids wagon and they are all for it....so hopefully she won't be too far behind us. (gotta keep the crazy crazy between us you know)

Mini Me txt me as we were paying to ask if we were almost done......and added Reid was doing great. (well then maybe we should stay a little longer right?)

On the drive home Mini Me txt me again to let me know there was a cop car in front of our house and it looked like he was on a stake out.

I'm not sure whether I should panic or giggle at this point.

So we txt back and asked if she answered the door.....she said no.

When we drove up I assumed we'd find a swarm of cop cars....but instead nothing. Mini Me was on the porch ready to go and play (since she worked so hard watching hubs babysit the small ones) and Tara's hubs was standing on the porch waiting too.

Funny part of the story? It was her house that called 911 on accident. (that's what happens when you've got 5 kids and a vacant phone lying around)

A few of her boys heard the cop telling her husband that the call came from the landline. The boys misunderstood and though the cop was talking about there being Land Mines.

I tell you there is never a dull moment with us....

All in a days fun in our families. Glad to know I'm not alone in this raising multiple kids thingy!

Conversations Between a Husband and the Wife

2012-01-13T08:20:00.001-06:00

I am tired lately....and it only has a little to do with being pregnant and having Reid wake up still once a night.

But I mainly blame the hubs.

His snoring is getting really bad lately.

I'm usually in bed before him....(I can't keep my eyes open past 9 sometimes)

He wanders in after midnight.....I'm asleep....but yet I hear him come in .....

Which isn't the problem either.

It's he falls asleep before I can....

And then the fun begins. I'm usually up listening to his construction site. That's what it sounds like....jack hammers....or drills....or ur dentist suction thingy.....but magnified like you are in an action scene in a movie at the theatre. Where the surround sound is coming at you from all sides.

And I sit....and I stare and I will him to quit.

I shove him....I shake him....(I might even think ugly things in my head)....I roll him....I even try and wake him.

NOTHING ....USELESS.

So there I sit for close to 3 hrs in tears every night dying for sleep.....

Only to have Reid wake up and off I go to soothe him back down....to return to the construction site.

Usually after 5ish his snoring gets quieter. Well that's fine and dandy, but I have to get up by 6:50 for the older kids...

I'm dragging my feet....each morning and hit a brick wall by noon.

So what does any wife do?

Talks to hubs about the snoring...

Me: "I can't take it anymore"

Him: "Not my problem I'm asleep"

Me: "Exactly.....YOU ARE ASLEEP"

Him: "You should try it....close your eyes and sleep"

Me: "I do....but you are so loud you wake up 5 counties"

Him: "I don't see your problem...b/c if you were asleep you wouldn't hear me"

Me: "How can I get to sleep with the fog horn blaring to guide ships in"

Him: "again .....I'm sleeping just fine....you need to just go to sleep b/c if you were sleeping you wouldn't hear me"

Why does he always think it's that simple?

On a different note....Lily was calling for her llama last night. I could hear her walking around the house calling for llama. She came to ask me if I had seen her llama ....that he was missing....hmmm?

She found her llama....Reid. Haha I love watching them play together!

Happy Friday....Here's to quiet weekend of sleep...(fingers crossed)

It's Always About Her....

2012-01-11T10:45:00.000-06:00

Who?

Lily of course....

I realized I forgot to brush her teeth the other night....I mean come on it can happen...the house is a crazy mad mess after 7. (anywho...I'm making excuses for my bad parenting)

The next morning I told Lily we needed to get in there and brush her toothies or they would fall out. Her response?

"That's ok mommy....the tooth fairy will bring me lots of money for my teef. I'm never gonna brush them again then"

(ummmm that wasn't what I was going for)

Lily...this girl is always telling me she loves me....and that I'm her bestest girl.

Lily: "Mommy ....I love you very much. You're my bestest gurl e-va. Now look away....I need to sneak into the pantry and get candy"

I usually have to wonder why it is she is telling me I'm her bestest girl....there's usually an alterior motive.

Or my favorite....You remember we co-sleep with this little princess right?

me....sleeping peacefully

Lily: "Mommy .......Mommy......You awake? Here smell my breath....(blows) Was that stinky?"

I'm awake I'm awake!

Miscellany Monday...and Giveaway Winner

2012-01-09T08:48:00.001-06:00

Like Carissa says, "Write Random and Link up

one. Winner Winner
&amp;amp;amp;lt;br&amp;amp;amp;gt;The numbers generated by this widget come from RANDOM.ORG's true random number generator.&amp;amp;amp;lt;br&amp;amp;amp;gt;

#33 Sweet Ashley over at Ashley's Carnival Ride

Ashley said...

Ooh fun! I like Shabby Apple on FB!

January 5, 2012 4:17 PM

Congrats Ashley!!! Contact me with your info......

(I don't know why the # of the winner didn't show up on my image...Hubs was my witness...I assumed I followed the directions right)

two. Bugs

And not the ants or roaches kind. Don't I wish....nope, we were lucky enough to have Mr Tummy Bug come to our house again. And Mrs cough and nasty nose too. I tell you this winter has been no fun and it's really not even that cold this year. It was quite lovely having oldest child stay home Thursday and Friday... just not the clean up! The house seems to be on the mend.....stop by at your own risk

three. Fear

Well I'm 10 weeks today....the same # of weeks when I went for my check up and found out I lost the baby (before Reid) I tell myself something is wrong again b/c I don't feel pregnant ...other than the "feet dragging passing out teeth grinding" tired. Other than that...I feel normal. Which always has me freaking out. I go next Tuesday for my appt I have mixed feelings. All I want for her to say is...Yep there's the heartbeat...all is well, but it seems like yesterday I was hearing the words...."I'm sorry, but I think there is something wrong" I need to learn to settle and not worry so much. Easier said than done, but it's the not knowing and waiting that makes these first 12 weeks so hard. I hoped going in for the ultrasound a few weeks ago would calm my fears...and it did..for a bit..... we need a window to peek inside whenever we want to make us mommy's settle.

four. Clippy

The other day Lily and I were playing beauty salon. I sit in the floor and she gets all the brushes and sprays and bows to make me pretty. She said she was going to get the 'clippy' to fix my hair. I assumed she meant clips....I can hear her coming up behind me saying something like "yea I've got clippy...now I'll fix your hair". Something made me turn around just as she was 6" from me with the scissors opening and closing. WOOHOO...that was a close one. Imagine if I didn't turn? I would be sporting a really short do

five. Mini Me and Dude

Both have birthday's coming up....Mini Me's birthday is in 17 days (she keeps reminding me daily of the updated countdown) I am running out of themes for her...I think we might do an after school Ice Cream Sundae Bar. She has already requested some decorated cookies to take to school. Aww her last year of Elementary...when you can take treats on your birthday. Sad she's growing up....what happened to my sweet little 4 yr old? For Dude I was going to do the tractor theme...but modified it to a barnyard theme. Send ideas my way please.

six. Aunts and Uncles

My Aunt and Uncle are coming to visit me this weekend. I am thrilled...I can't even imagine how long it's been since I've last seen them...and I'm really excited they get to meet all my kids (how sad I can't remember if they have met any) I was telling the kids who was coming. And of course I get the ...."wow you still have aunts and uncles...." ugh...Yes kids...ALL OF MOMMY'S AUNTS AND UNCLES ARE STILL LIVING. (thankfully) I tried to explain they are my parents age...but I think that goes right over their heads. I mean anything older than 30 is ancient right?!.......I must say I am thrilled....I need to whip out my recipes and wow them with something yummy!

six. Peppa Pig

Lily has another new obsession. I have to agree....I love Peppa...her accent is adorable and it's especially fun hearing their different words for things and having a discussion with Lily about them...ie a shopping buggy is a trolley. Lift for elevator. Wellies for rainboots ..... The other day we were at the grocery store and Lily pointed to some Tomatoes and said it just like Peppa.....I had a huge giggle...Funny how she picked up Peppa's accent for the red fruit/veg and thinks that is the correct accent for it. I don't think I'll correct her...I think hearing "toe-ma-toe" sounds much prettier.

seven. Poll

Upper right corner of blog you'll see a cowgirl/cowboy poll. The cowgirls are winning...place your bets

Shabby Apple Giveaway Ending Soon...

2012-01-08T19:09:00.001-06:00

Don't forget about the Shabby Apple giveaway ending in a few hours. Hurry to enter

Shabby Apple

Creamy Blueberry Banana Dessert

2012-01-06T08:30:00.000-06:00

I had totally forgotten about this recipe....it was stashed in the back of my dessert card file. I have so many recipe boxes or folders or clipping around that I totally need to get organized this year and bust a system out. I can't part with some of my actual handwritten recipe cards though....they have history/memories/sentimental value.

It was nearing Wednesday dinner with the Inlaws and I needed a dessert. I thought blueberry....which had me thinking fruity....which had me thinking cream cheese....which made a light bulb go off to remind me of this dessert.

I'm not even sure it has an actual name....nor can I remember where I got this...(from a person not a book) I hadn't made it in years, but knew it was a favorite of mine.

YOU MUST MAKE IT.....everyone went in for 2nds if not 3rds. That's when you know you have a winner on your hands. Simple ingredients Simple to prepare...what more can you ask for?

Blueberry Banana Dessert

1 pkg Pecan Sandies
3-4 bananas
8 0z cream cheese (softened)
1 1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp lemon juice
1 tsp vanilla
1/2 pint cool whip
blueberry pie filling

Mix:
cream cheese, powered sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla until smooth. Fold in cool whip

In a 9x13 layer pecan cookies on the bottom
top with banana slices
top with cream cheese mixture (I've even thought about doubling for extra)
*dollop cream cheese all over top and then spread together. Go slow ....takes a few mins to spread*

Chill

Spread blueberry pie filling before serving.

I like to make mine the day before.....and I put the pie filling in the fridge too. I will spread the filling before I serve...(I like things cold) The flavors overnight have a chance to marry ...and the cookies soften a bit....it's quite lovely!

A few of you were asking about a GENDER POLL.
Check the upper right corner of my blog and cast your vote for a cowgirl or cowboy. I'm hoping to find out March 14th!!! (seems forever and a day away)

That's My Girl....More Lily-isms

2012-01-05T08:40:00.002-06:00

I'm in that 1st trimester exhaustion phase....I'll take it since that means the pregnancy is progressing on schedule, but I'M TIRED!!!!

After dinner the other night, I went to lay down in the middle of the floor surrounded by the little kid's toys. I was hoping I could grab like 10 mins of 'rest' while they played. (Who was I kidding)

Lily proceeds to grab a basketball and bounce it loudly by my head.

Me: "Lily...that is really loud.....Mommy is trying to rest"

Lily: "I know it's really loud....I don't want you to sleep..I'm going to go on the Naughty List"
___________________________________

Lily: "Mommy?"

Me: "Yes Lily"

Lily: "Can I smell your eyeballs"

___________________________________

Someone has taught Lily the word "STUPID" .....I totally hate that word...and it definitely doesn't belong coming out of her mouth.

This is what I heard from her all day

Lily: "come here you stupid pillow"
"Sissy what are you doing at the stupid door?"
"Hey stupid dog....want to go outside?"
"Hey may I have a stupid snack"

That's just lovely....and of course the more I explained that word isn't acceptable the more AWESOME the word became. I am hoping that by tomorrow when she wakes it will be forgotten from her vocab.

____________________________________

"Mommy you are my most favorite Mommy in the world....You're my best friend"
(love her)

____________________________________

Lily: "Mommy ...it's time to wake up....we need to go downstairs and see Sprinkles"
Me: (ugh it's early...I want sleep...but is curious who Sprinkles is) "Who is Sprinkles"
Lily: "Our new dog...come and look"

Of course I do and sprint downstairs in a panic thinking she has let some strange dog in.....but nothing was there...I think she just did her first trick to get me up

_____________________________________

My baby turned 11 months on New Years Day. It's time to start planning the 1st birthday John Deere Tractor themed party....if any of you have idea boards send them my way. I have been hitting up Pinterest galore. Back in October our neighbor was throwing away their haystacks they had used for decoration. I took them (one person's trash is another person's treasure) I thought they would be cute to use to place treats and food on (you know the whole varying height decor thing)

Here's sweet boy....I was running out of prop ideas...

Don't forget about my Shabby Apple giveaway....it ends Sunday.....

Shabby Apple Giveaway

2012-01-04T08:48:00.000-06:00

I am in ♥ with Shabby Apple. I drool daily over their gorgeous site. I can't even begin to list the dresses and shoes and necklaces I would kill for.

Well today is YOUR lucky day.....(boo to me) that you get to be the proud owner of this gorgeous necklace by winning it on my bloggy.

The White Rabbit's Time Keeper
(featured in my fav Southern Living)

Valued at $64

This beautifully crafted pocket watch necklace is made of etched antique brass metal.

Glass front opens to reveal clock.Glass face is diamond cut in a lovely shade of golden brown.

Necklace is 24” long
Handmade in the USA

I love their whole Alice In Wonderland themed pieces in this collection....head over there and have a look.

Here's what you need to do to enter:
(enter separately for more chances to win)

US Readers Only

1. Mandatory Entry: Head over to FB and Like Shabby Apple

2. Follow Shabby Apple on Twitter

3. Follow Shabby Apple Blog

4. Visit Shabby Apple and tell me your favorite thing

Giveaway ends Sunday Night around 9pm...winner will be announced Monday Morning (January 9th)

A New Years Surprise.....

2012-01-02T08:30:00.002-06:00

A new blog look......I thought the New Year needed to start off right.

Ok that's not the whole SURPRISE.....THIS IS...

It's still early yet but.......

SURPRISE.

Little bean is 9 weeks today. It's been super hard keeping this secret for as long as I did.
And the fact that it's #6 makes little bean pop out my belly a little faster than before. So hiding is starting to be an issue.

I went in last week to double check that all those little "Pregnant" sticks were really true, and lo and behold they were.

I tell you no matter how many babies I see on a sono each one makes me giggle with delight at such a tiny miracle.

Pregnancy is a gift that I don't take for granted.....(esp after losing the baby before Reid) I was a little more nervous when I was carrying him....I kept thinking all the 'what if's' ...this time around I have decided to sit back and enjoy what I've been given. It's in God's hands....(Easy to type harder to let go though)

Speaking of God....I am guessing He has a sense of humor when it comes to me.....Lily and Reid both don't sleep through the night. Lily wakes a few times seeking a warm body. Then when she does she will twirl my hair until I swear it's going to break off at the scalp...(how she puts herself to sleep) Reid....? Well when he teethes the whole world knows. I can't seem to catch a break. His nose runs and he gets a cough...which makes him miserable. Takes forever to get the nose and cough to go away....only to start it all over again with another tooth. Which really throws his schedule off. He will have one really good week and then BOOM a new tooth...and there we are for another 3 weeks off sleeping. I keep praying babe 6 pops out happy and sleeping through the night. (a girl can dream)

Wondering the reaction of the big kids? We got that "look" again.....Extra asked where on earth the baby was going to sleep since we are out of rooms. Then of course they all look at each other and shout they are not sharing with anyone. Aww gotta love sibling love. That was it....no 'ohhh yea how cool'

So there you have the secret.....I am horrible at keeping them....especially when it's an exciting one!

My next midwife appt is in a few weeks....I think when I hear that little heartbeat again and make it past the 1st tri hurdle we can let our hair down officially and party like it's 1999....

Hope you stick with me on my journey of a middle aged mom who's a hot mess pregnant with #6. I don't have all the answers....I just pretend to my kids I do.

It's a Southern Thing....Black Eyed Peas

2011-12-30T09:41:00.001-06:00

If you know me you know my theory on the Civil War. I'm not gonna beat you down again on the fact that is was NOT fought over SLAVERY, but put due to the sweet South wanted to secede. (read this quick brief summary to get ya started if you want to know more).

North didn't play fair....they stole, burned, killed, raped, or basically destroyed anything in their path through the South. Same for when it came to our crops....they didn't ask...just took our crops and livestock for their troops to feed on.....they pretty much left nothing in their wake for the southerner's left behind.

Enter the black eyed peas. At that time, Northerners considered "field peas" suitable only for animal fodder, and did not steal or destroy these humble foods (why I'm not sure).....hence why as a tradition in the South we eat Black Eyed Peas for luck!! Because it was the one crop they left behind to eat.

I'm a sucker for all beans/peas (well food in general)

As my luck would have it I don't really have a good Texas Caviar recipe in my stash (deep shock)

I do have a fantastic Black Bean Salsa that if I added a can of Black Eyed Peas to it it would be rocking....Hubs said NO....THAT'S NOT TEXAS CAVIAR. Well I know, but it's got our Lucky beans in it.

Any plans for New Years? I'll be lucky if I make it past 8pm....I'm super tired these days....and it's not as if Hubs and I will be swinging from the rafters....Dude has a bit of a cough and has been up a few times at night.....and did I mention he thinks 6am is a good wakey wakey time? (blah)

Speaking of Dude.....here's the sweet lad.....

He turns 11 months on Sunday....Where has time gone?

With that all said...

HAPPY 2012 .....Here's to another fabulous year.....

Well That Was Scary

2011-12-27T16:05:00.000-06:00

OK THAT WAS A TOTAL SCARE

BLOGGER DISABLED MY ACCOUNT/BLOG/EMAIL

AND TOTALLY HAD ME FREAKING OUT.

I was not amused and really upset b/c this is my digital journal....not to mention a little view into all my friends (yes you) lives.

So for about 4 hrs I have been on the computer with no response to my hoards of messages to google for help

BUT I'M BACK

for now....(let's hope forever)

I thought if I violated anything 1. it was news to me.....and 2. maybe the violation was reading too many blogs

Point of the story....

It's good to be back....and now I'm not so sick to my tummy anymore

Different note:

The kids had a wonderful Christmas. Kate got a gift I told her I wouldn't buy her....that no way on earth would she get it.....to create a new list. She was worried b/c she couldn't come up with anything else....Little did miss fancy pants know I already bought it for her back nov 1st. It was so hard for me to keep the secret...but Christmas morning watching her cry her eyes out was so worth it...It's so fun being a parent.

Little Miss Lily got a haircut....Her hot mess of a head is still a hot mess....if she ever slows down I'll snap a picture of the new her

As for haircuts....the oldest boy got one. Yes.....We took him to a salon and got a cut. It's not "mom's choice" but it's well shorter.....(he looks thrilled for me to take his picture) My sweet 15 yr old would look great if it was buzzed off in my opinion. Ok not buzzed....but clipped shorter....at least now I can see his eyes sort of.....(he's still sporting the 70's look)

Before
After
Extra (to see who extra is view a few posts back) is still around and Reid is teething and growing and eating and as active as can be for a child that doesn't walk but run. His nickname is Mikey b/c he eats EVERYTHING...seriously there isn't a food this child doesn't like

More updates to come later...

I'm just glad to be back...what's new with you?

Dear Santa,

2011-12-23T10:28:00.000-06:00

Dear Santa,

I think I have been a pretty good girl this year. I hardly complained (cover eyes) and I rarely threw any fits (ducks).

So if you can find it in your heart of hearts to fill my stocking with sweet treats....

I promise to be even better next year...

Love,

Laura....your favorite little big girl

Every 23rd we have some of the family over....9 nieces and nephews and 6 adults....for my Favorite Chili Recipe

Last year I made those little Santa cookies and they were a hit....I think I'll make them every year ....nothing like a lil Santa to make you grin. I thought I remembered how time consuming he was, but not until I started rolling the balls...and note to self....TRIPLE the batch not double!

Hope everyone has a Merry Christmas and that your Santa is good to you this year....

I have a feeling good blessings are coming ......

He's an Extra

2011-12-21T09:08:00.000-06:00

I love having girl time with my Mini Me.....she's my sweet 10 yr old that still has her head in the clouds and twirls around the house....I pray her sweet heart never changes....

The other night I got Dude down early and Mini Me and I bolted out the door for a little Target shopping and hot chocolates.

As we were driving she told me she liked times like this....when it was just the 2 of us. I told her I did too.

Then the conversation happens...(the one that all my kids seem to want to have with me....you know the "WOW I bet it's cool to be an only child" conversation)

And then I have to remind them of how lonely they would be all day not having the others to play or chat with....yes, even fight with. How they would miss out on all the funny things Lily and Reid are doing.....and I have to remind them of the friends they have that ARE only children that love to come to our house where the chaos is b/c it's so full of life. (not saying the only child's house isn't, but come on....we have 5 loud (points to Lily) kids running amuck half the time...there is always something going on here....and a cookie or two to eat)

Then Mini Me pauses....

"What?" I ask

Mini Me: "Well you know Jake is sort of an extra." she says

Me: "An Extra? What's that mean?"

Mini Me: "Well you know how on a sitcom there is always an extra person that doesn't really do much....they just sort of walk around and are just there....well that's Jake"

Me: (don't even know what to say to that)

Mini Me: "You know?"

Me: "No sweetie I don't know........I mean Jake is a bit quiet and does play on the computer a bunch"

(deep sigh....don't you just love how your kids perceive each other)

Jake is my quiet sweet one. He has the kindest heart of anyone. He is always asking me how I am doing....smiles every chance he can.....and Lily and Reid are drawn to him. Some girl is sure gonna fall hard for this one.

He can also have a temper.....I love seeing his little face....(ok not little, he's 13) It turns all red and he frowns and stomps about....haha...I can't help but laugh at him when he does and then he starts trying not to smile.

Lily loves to play swords with him. She will get every kitchen gadget from the drawers and pretend to spank him....Ok no idea where she gets this...as if the child ever gets spankings

So...there you have another installment of A CONVERSATION WITH ME AND MINI ME

I'm glad to know my kids are like extras......

Jolly Ol Saint Nick....and a Lil Screamer....

2011-12-20T16:38:00.001-06:00

I don't have any recent pics of Reid sitting on Santa's lap....Mainly b/c I tried to steer clear of all malls this holiday. So basically I don't have ANY pics of Reid screaming on Santa's lap. Really all you have to do it hand him to someone other than me and he screams....(close your eyes and picture)

I love love looking at everyone's photos of their kids screaming on the fat man's lap...I mean the poor chap gets cried on more times than not...maybe we should be taking him gifts instead of the other way around.

Kate reminded me of the photo I have of Lily on her second Christmas.....We had gone to the main street to check out the lights and listen to the music....there I spotted THE jolly ol man and thrusted (is that a word?) Lily upon him.....makes you feel horrible for snapping a picture of your screaming child desperately reaching for you....but you know you feel compelled b/c you are laughing so hard that you need to capture the moment....

Here's my moment

I can't stop laughing......

Ho Ho Ho Merry Candy Canes.......

2011-12-16T08:40:00.000-06:00

Yes I had to bust out some Christmas Cookies before the kids went on break.

I figured the teachers are starting to expect them (not that one kept asking if I forgot and that the last day of school was today or anything....)

I got lazy....(been a pattern with me lately) and only made candy canes.

I figured not a lot of colors and easy to decorate.

I was chatting with Stacy over at Cardigans and Crayons about her Hot Chocolate bar she will be having at her house....which made me realize all the things I forgot on mine. Guess I'll file them away for next year. When thinking of her party I ran across the cutest thing in the Southern Living magazine. They took peppermints and melted them into a plate shape.

Well I just had to see if it worked. I followed their directions to a T and had an epic fail.

Preheat to 350
trace image (or freehand) on parchment paper
have a gap between peppermints
heat 4 mins (or keep an eye on them) or until desired look. Now they said 9 mins, but whoooa. That was too long. I had a melted mess on my hands. 4 or less is perfect.

I decided to do a few C's for my candy cane cookies. (I really wanted to melt the word COWBOY, but not as easy as I pictured)

Is everyone finished with your Christmas shopping? I am totally not...(did I mention I was tired?) I am very grateful for Amazon Prime Shipping...it's saved me. I'd say I'm 80% ready. I need to make my list and check it twice. Some of the little munchkins in the house might be getting coal. (I can't mention names)

My wish list?
Maid
Maid
Maid
glass top for my door table for craft table
20" x 20" piece of marble for rolling cookies
pedicure

I hope I've been a good girl

Only In My House

2011-12-14T12:45:00.001-06:00

multitask

World English Dictionary

multitask (ˈmʌltɪˌtɑːsk)

— vb
	to work at several different tasks simultaneously Nuff said right? I mean you should only attempt multiple tasks if you are up for the challenge. I live my life in multi mode. Obviously not today. Get this....I was only making cookie dough. That's it.... I was adding all the ingredients for a double batch of sugar cookies. I am so behind in making these for Kate's teachers....it usually takes me a few days and that leaves Friday the last day to get these there...(their Christmas party is tomorrow...eek not gonna happen) I'm measuring the ingredients and thinking of all the other million things I need to be doing....ie laundry (that's like 10 loads high), dishes need unloading and loading, momma needs a shower, swiffer floors, clean guest bathroom, start frying bacon for dinner tonight (baked potato soup) start dessert for In Law wed dinner, keep eye on 2 little rugrats, empty trash...it's starting to stink....finish gift buying....the list is on going.... Then I notice...how many cups of flour did I add?....was that 4 or 5? Oh man...does that look like 4 cups? Should I add one more....or was it 3. seriously laura how do you mess this up?.... I just go with it and hope it turns out. I'm stressing the whole time I'm rolling the dough...."does it feel right....it feels to mushy...no maybe not....you did fine....no I think you messed up....did you start the dryer?" You see the dilama? Never think when baking...if your name is Laura. I baked a batch and tasted one.....they seem fine...I think....I'm only used to eating them with icing. No one will notice right?! ___________________________________ On a different note.... I saw this cartoon and had a giggle....this is so our house...(esp the last few) I try to teach the children to think of others....esp when it comes to toilet paper. I'm usually the one that finds the last photo.

Foto Friday: Back Off Jack...They're all Mine

2011-12-09T08:20:00.000-06:00

Let me set the scene....

It's way too early for all kids to be up....Only the big kids should be to git otta tha door for skool.

But Lily felt the need to wake me at 5ish to say she was thirsty.....(forced her to lay in bed and count to sleep again) and then dude decided he was missing the fun and got up at 6. Where in turn I willed him with my magic mommy powers to go back to sleep....I guess my magic was empty...b/c by 6:50 I gave up willing him and just got him up.

Downstairs all 5 kids are bustling in the kitchen....I'm watching oldest child pace and talk to himself. (Chemistry mid term exam and he's reciting the charts....) 2nd child is tormenting Mini Me....and Mini Me is all in a tizzy b/c her choir class is heading to the amusement park tonight to sing and ride rides.

I notice Lily and Reid are gone and I hear Reid screaming......."Hey chick...I can't talk yet and you are really making me mad so I'll scream at you to get your attention" kind of yelling (you know I'm like the Baby Whisperer....I can totally understand what Reid is saying when he yells)

I round the corner and find Lily and Reid by the pantry with Lily telling Reid....

"No little baby....They are all mine....Run away!"

I call Lily's name...

...and my then bag of marshmallows was no longer .....guess where they went? (I think there were about 6 left)

Obviously I need to teach this girl the art of sharing...poor baby Reid!

It's Torture When Chocolate is Around

2011-12-07T14:42:00.000-06:00

I may or may not have given in once (ok ok three times) today.

I had had had to try these cookies out....you see I forgot the vanilla when baking them. (trust me vanilla is a must) and had to see if they were edible for the family tonight. (3 times edible) I figure I had been really really good all week....and messed up this once. THEY WERE CHOCOLATE COVERED CHERRY COOKIES FOR PETE'S SAKE....I'm in the clear here right???

What is it about chocolate and cherries that is so insanely enticing together?

Moving on to the ladies man....Elvis is a favorite with the ladies in our house....You go little Elf

Fudgy Goodness...

2011-12-06T08:00:00.001-06:00

Ok this isn't the cookie recipe I told you I was going to post. (Wednesday Wednesday....so come back tomorrow)

This is the "last minute oh goody i have everything on hand to make these i can't believe i forgot to make a treat" cookie.

It was advent last night ...and yes again I forgot to plan a snack (what is happening to me?)

I happened to be on Pinterest (shocker there) and ran into these bad boys.
I checked the ingredients and was jumping for joy I had everything on hand.

They were easy to make....in fact Lily helped me. It was the 2nd time she has asked to help me bake. I am a little surprised at how quickly she 'gets' it. Here Mini Me is 10 and will help measure one thing and she's through. Lily wanted to do it all. I used a stand mixer so I told her to put her hand on top of the stand. She thought she was doing all the mixing by doing that. It was a-d-o-r-a-b-l-e. I have me my mini baker now! (it only took 5 kids)

I would compare these to chewy brownie's with powdered goodness on them. Did I sample? No (can you believe it?) The kids told me they were out of this world and so far favorite cookie #2 that I make. (#1 are the double oat breakfast cookies)

*a few ppl were asking where I take my photos.....I actually use 2 pieces of white poster board and then either use the light from the windows ....or head outside on our front porch. (I like the lighting there) I am sure if anyone drives by they think what a freak I am (what's new?!)...I'm taking pictures of food for Pete's sake. Then I use my photoshop to add text or brighten picture. I wish I had more time to play around and be more professional....but this gets me what I need quick.

Here's where we found Elvis today....I sure hope he cleans up his mess. I'm sure not (ha...who am I kidding?)

Off to Target today.....yeah I know you're jealous! (grins)

Miscellany Monday....Elvis is in the Building

2011-12-05T08:10:00.002-06:00

Head over to Carissa's and link up...
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one. ZA
Yes Pizza....I love it...I could it eat every single day. (that and mexican food) But as of yesterday that was my last day....why? Because my lovely no-low carb/no sweets (but I am going to have a sweet once a month....like a party ..it will be something I look forward to) and no soda. I owe it to my thighs....Momma needs a jump start again. Wish me well please....because of right now...all I can think about is Dr Pepper. (typical huh?)

two. Prayers
Yesterday my neighbor and bestie txt me about her brother's friend. This sweet girl named Lauren was in a plane accident. The plane ride was fine....but it was after that the tragedy happened. While exiting the plane Lauren somehow walked into the propeller. Struck on the left side of her body, Lauren's hand, head, and shoulder area were hit. Following multiple surgeries, Lauren has received facial and shoulder reconstruction, as well as the loss of her hand. They are currently praying for healing on the left eye and brain. She is in stable condition with ongoing surgery. If you have a chance head over to her page and read the miracles that are happening .. LAUREN

three. Puke
Yep puke. Lily woke us up Sat night/Sun morn with it in the bed. Did I mention we co-sleep? Did I mention she must have had something purple (no idea) This went on for about 5 hrs. We used every sheet/towel/blanket we could find. It's really cold out and we were huddled like little bunnies to keep warm. Thankfully she slept at 5am-11am with no more tummy issues. Reid decided this would be the night he would choose to get up and party. He hasn't had a night like that since he was a wee lad. Momma was tired. Then Dude was up by 7am and so was momma....daddy and Lil slept in...(deep sigh) Last night was better, but Lily woke up at 4am and talked my ear off until 6:40...only to be woken up by the big kids for school before 7.. Dude, Lily and daddy are still snoozing...I did mention I was tired right? Point story....? (if there is one) Pray no one else gets it. I'm tired of doing laundry. Not to mention hate seeing my babies in pain like that.

four. Elvis
This is where we found Elvis this morning...Guess we know who his GF is...

five. Cherries
I'm a sucker for chocolate covered cherries. (or I was until no sweets) At the cookie exchange one momma brought some cookies that I can't stop thinking about. I am making them for the In Laws dinner for Wednesday. Must have will power. These cookies are a take on those cherry cordials. They have condensed milk in it....nuff said! I'll blog the recipe and photos so stand by.

six. Best Behavior
What is it with ppl? This is supposed to be the season of giving and cheer and kindness towards men. Well it seems anything but when out shopping. I'm not talking for toys *which I did have to hit Toys R Us for a return...never again mind you* But I'm talking at the grocery store for groceries. Shesh it was kill or be killed. I best put my "kick me" sign on my back...It might be easier. Thank goodness I'm in a terrific mood. Nothing can knock me down!

Cookie Exchange Party

2011-12-02T13:20:00.001-06:00

For as long as I can remember I wanted to host a cookie exchange...

Now I'm not sure I did a great job, but I sure had fun. (Hopefully others did too ha)

I had Charlie Brown's Christmas cd playing in the background (I think I'm the only one that noticed)....and yummy Cinnamon Bear scents burning in the air.....

I had a Wassail bar, hot chocolate bar, and a coffee bar....thanks to Pinterest I stole a few ideas....The peppermint tipped marshmallows were a epic fail....so we just had marshmallows....

The cookies I made were a complete mess to look at, but they had a nice snap crunch to them and the chocolate cookie itself was divine.

Chocolate Peppermint Stars
20 round peppermint candies (crushed) 1 1/4 cup flour (plus more for rolling)
3/4 cup cocoa powder 1 1/2 stick butter; softened
1 cup sugar 1 egg 1/2 tsp vanilla

preheat oven to 325
whisk flour, cocoa and 1/8 tsp salt and set aside
beat butter and sugar with mixer on med speed until combined, about 3 mins.
Beat in egg and vanilla and beat another minute.
Reduce speed to low and gradually add flour mixture until combine. About 2 mins.
Shape dough into disk and wrap in plastic wrap. Chill for at least 2 hrs.
Roll dough 1/8 thickness on lightly floured surface.
Cut out star shapes and transfer to baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Refrigerate for 15 mins to firm up.
Cut a smaller star in center of cookies.
Bake 9 mins until slightly firm
Fill center of each cookie with crushed peppermints.
Bake another 5-6 mins until candy has melted
Let cool on baking sheet on wire rack for 10 mins
Transfer cookies to rack
yield 2 dz cookies

I snagged a few (are we even allowed to take our own cookies?) so the kids could sample a few. It was pure torture having them watch me bake them and not getting to sample any.

Anyone ever hosted a cookie exchange party? Any tips or treats for my next one?

10 Months.....Rugged Boy in the Making

2011-12-01T08:51:00.001-06:00

I say it every month, but I'll say it again....
HELLOOOOOOOO MY BABY IS GROWING UP.

10 months ago on a frozen world (remember the ice storm) sweet little dude friend came into the world. That day marked another awesome day for us!

I can't say enough about how sweet Reid is.....

He's like a dash of peppermint mocha creamer in your coffee each morning.
Like the fresh scent of Downy Fabric softener on your towels.
Like the first bite of Mexican food after a long day.
Like the feel of your smooth teeth after a dental cleaning.
(need I say more?)

He is definitely momma's boy and I welcome his glued hip to my hip...for I know that not in the not to distant future my baby will not need me as much.

Love you sweet boy.

(ok now off to finish baking the 6 dz cookies for the party tomorrow....note: the recipe made 24 cookies not 40...I've got a bone to pick with Martha Stewart. But then again after reading some pages of her daughter's tell all book...I'm starting to think Martha hasn't done any of her ideas at all in the first place.)

It's Almost Here...

2011-11-30T12:54:00.002-06:00

(notice the blog change? it's to get you in the mood for the holidays from Christmas....through New Year's...thanks to Shannon again over at Sweet Bean Co. Designs)

It's almost here....December that is.....

Can you believe it? That magical season of birth is already upon us. It feels like just yesterday I was decorating the house and putting lights up outside. (Man I forgot what a chore that is....)

I am hosting my first cookie exchange this Friday and have been busy getting little knick knacks together for decorating ...thanks to Pinterest I took some white paper plates and laced ribbon through them. (didn't realize how much ribbon it would end up taking...def not something to do if you have lots of plates to use)

Source: laurengeiger.blogspot.com via Laura on Pinterest

I am also supplying the "drink bar" ....I am going to have a hot chocolate station....with crushed peppermint tipped marshmallows (again Pinterest)

Source: fetefanatic.blogspot.com via Heather on Pinterest

I also plan on doing just plain (not sprinkled like in photo) chocolate covered spoons for either their coffee or hot chocolate.

I'm making my favorite Wassail. (the smell alone is fantastic in the house while simmering)

I bought some of these cuties on etsy (I don't care if they hold up or not...they were darn cute)

Source: etsy.com via Michael Miller Fabrics on Pinterest

I'm a little angry though....I found a cookie recipe for Chocolate and Peppermint Stars in the Martha Stewart magazine....I think the testers for the cookie are either confused or insane....It says it makes 40 cookies per batch...but I baked rolled cookies all the time and there is no way I can get 40 cookies from 1 batch of that dough. I have to make 6 dz cookies for this party....needless to say I didn't plan this very well. (moral.....don't try a new recipe days before a party)

Hope everyone has a terrific Wednesday....Oldest child gets his stitches out tomorrow...anxious to see when he can start to put pressure on his knee and walk w/o crutches! (I'm sure him more than me....)

PS.....I lost my side bar of blogs I follow...so please excuse me if it takes a while to find yours again...)

Work With Me Peeps....

2011-11-29T09:42:00.003-06:00

Getting 5 kids to take a photo is harder than I imagined. You would think the big kids would be easy (because you can threaten them) but no.

I seriously set myself up though for failure. In my head it was simple....I had the location...all they had to do was walk. Walk...that was it. Oh...and not look like I broke their favorite toy. I was sweating before it was said and done.

I took 198 photos the weekend before oldest child's surgery. How many turned out? 2....and those 2 don't even show their faces.

Who wants a Christmas card where the kids faces aren't even showing...

It's like..."WOW...thanks for a photo of your kids backside"

Well here's the deal Lucille...you wanna see their faces then come and see them in person....nothing says lovin like the real thang baby....(bitter much)

Notice Lily's boots....she refused to wear the brown fuzzy ones...it had to be her Pink Hello Kitty....I didn't need anymore meltdowns so I sucked it up. Child #2 pouted the whole time b/c heaven forbid taking pictures with your siblings was beneath him.

I seriously don't know what the children are doing in half the photos...I just know I was screaming to make them all conform (never a good thing...it just confuses people)

I figured I would turn the photo black and white and you wouldn't notice Lily's boots anyways.....but then again....

I don't even have one worthy of switching heads from one photo to another....I mean I'm good, but not that good.....too many heads to move.

I did get a cute shot of Mini Me....

After I got home and saw this picture I can't believe how much my 1st baby girl is growing up...

H, L, J, and P

2011-11-28T08:00:00.002-06:00

Hope Love Joy Peace

It's Advent season ...which means break out our wreaths for a little family devotion time.

Sundays are a little crazy around the house....so the traditional day gets moved to Monday for our gang. For the past....6 yrs we have had our 'special snack' and prayers with the lighting of our candles. The kids really look forward to it now that they are getting older. It was hard at first to get the little rugrats to sit in their seats....(Points to Lily) ....now it's a time of coming together and the older kids love to hear and be retold the stories each week.

(or fights over who gets to light the candle(s) each week)

3 purple candles, 1 pink and 1 white

Today is Purple....The Prophecy Candle....symbolizing Hope in remembrance of the prophets ...mainly Isaiah, who foretold the birth. Hope in anticipation of the coming Messiah.

I usually have some special 'treat' and 'drink'...but I was lame and forgot the ingredients when I went shopping for the weekly groceries. Soooooo I'm gonna run to the corner donut shop and grab some special 'sprinkle' ones and make hot chocolate. (I am so not impressed) I blame it on Thanksgiving and Gray's surgery for throwing me off my 'I totally fake that I've totally got it together' and now I just look fake (grins)

What traditions do you hold with your family during this season?

Wanted to add a new addition each week to my posts.....New blogs that I adore reading....

You know you stalk...I mean we all do....and then you find a blog where you ~~PRETEND THAT SHE IS YOUR BEST FRIEND AND WANT TO COPY EVERYTHING SHE DOES BECAUSE SHE IS OHHH SO COOL?~~ enjoy reading it...?

Well I thought I would share a blog or 2 that I find and enjoy reading.....

first up....Rebecca...another mom to 5 kids....over at olderandwisor. I have major giggles reading her stuff......

*****

side note....thanks for all the prayers....Grayson is healing beautifully. I have totally enjoyed waiting on him hand and knee...haha get it...aww never mind.... I mean hand and foot. I thought it would get old...but nah. How often do you get to baby your first baby when he's a teen?

He'll be on crutches for another week...and stitches come out Thursday. I thought I would keep him home from school a few days to heal some more before being throw around in the halls or sitting all day in a cramped desk. Thanks again for thinking of us....

Updates.....

2011-11-23T08:00:00.003-06:00

Well goooooood mawn'n (said in her best southern accent)

Thanks for the prayers....The surgery went terrific. His shredded acl was repaired and the tear in his meniscus actually had healed itself...(PTL)

Dear son was pretty much tired and slept on and off the whole day.....and night. The knee was still numb and so thankfully he wasn't in any pain on Monday....I was a worried wreck that during the night he would start to feel pain and I wouldn't be there to get his med's. So what does a momma do? She can't sleep and pretty much is on alert the whole night listening to every sound. Ok that and dude has a dry cough and I was up most of the night anyways....(did I mention I'm tired?)

I went to the store and spent double what I normally do for the week buying all of his favorite foods.....I mean the boy had surgery...and is going to be off his leg for a week if not more and I get to play nurse maid

I got to cook all his favorite foods for dinner...I think I'm spoiling him for his future wife...but I just basically put myself in his shoes and thought..."what would I need to recover fully and how would I like to be treated?"

I put a little snack bucket next to where he is sleeping in case he's hungry, pills for feeling nauseous at night ...a bottle water and his video games and laptop. I tried to keep all his bases covered in case he couldn't sleep.

All in all things are going pretty ok...he's in slight pain...and has been resting comfortably ....we head to the dr on Friday for a checkup to change the bandage. I'm also hoping they will give us the go ahead to take the brace off for a bit so he can shower. We are attempting to wash his long locks of hair in the sink today...guess what? I think he finally wants to get it cut...shorter than a trim. All I can say is wow! (and then keep my mouth shut)

As for me....? I am feeling 100%. Man oh Man that was one horrible day.....those 24 hr bugs thankfully are just that 24 hrs. I think it was so hard on me b/c I didn't get to rest like I needed. Reid was going through some "My mother better not leave my sight or not hold me or I'll scream like a banshee" and Lily? well she was in high form....needless to say I rolled around in pain on the living room rug while the babies climbed all over me ....I wanted to die and was literally grinding my teeth with exhaustion. Typical that Reid also would take a 1 hr nap when he normally takes a 3 hr and a small early evening one. It's like I was being paid back for something....

Again thanks for all the prayers......keep em coming for fast recovery.

Any good plans for your Turkey Day tomorrow? We are having the family here....can't wait!!!!

Bug and Blood

2011-11-20T15:34:00.004-06:00

I feel like I have been hit by a Mack truck and then backed up over and then run over again....times 10.

Somehow Momma (me) got a tummy bug ....I thought maybe it was something we ate this weekend..I was awake with tummy pains around 3am....just waiting for the porcelain thrones to start flushing around the house....but alas....that prize was only left for me....I assume bug...24 please (begs) The baby only seems to want me and won't nap today....I'm in hell....did I mention he caught a cold?

My reason for writing on a Sunday is prayers....(one for me too if you can spare) prayers for my oldest child. He goes in for knee surgery tomorrow morning. Yes, as a mom we are always a nervous wreck no matter how simple a procedure....we aren't sure of the extent of the shred until they get in there. Outcome? If it's minor 6 week recovery....the bad kind then we are looking at 6 months. For some reason I don't feel hopeful. (maybe it's the bug I caught beating me into the ground)

Thanks in advance....I'm off to crawl back under my rock now

My Sources For Entertainment

2011-11-18T08:30:00.002-06:00

Crazy girl and Dude are best buds.
Now that he is walking he seems more INTO wanting to play with his big sissy. The older kids and I can just sit back and giggle at the 2 of them together. Dude will let out this scream whenever he has had enough of Lily choking him and trying to hug him. I wish I could capture his face on camera when he does....it's soooo comical.

Here is a video I took last night....I was laughing so hard I could barely tell Lily to stop....Listen very closely to the end....you can hear daddy tell Lily to stop....her reply "NO" ...that's Lily for you....

Usually my evenings consist of cooking the dinner...watching my kids inhale before I can even plate my own food....Half the time I'm standing at the island b/c I have a baby on my hip. Now that Reid is starting to eat big people food...he will eat mine before I can get a spoonful myself.

Kids run off to do homework or showers and I'm busy cleaning the aftermath of dinner....(or trying to scrape the bowl for my meal) This is usually what I find by the sink....

I'm guessing either my children love being near me or just don't care where they find a place to do homework.

Nothing better than being surrounded by your children I say....

Lily is a constant source of entertainment for us....last night while she was in her bath she shouted "I need to get out of the tub momma.....I need to put something sparkly on fast"

I love having a girly girl....now if only she'd let me fix her hair.

Happy Friday Y'all

OhMyGreatness

2011-11-17T08:25:00.002-06:00

Wow....Just one word WOW

Last nights meal was fan-tab-ulous. I just made that word up ...that's b/c it was so delish.

Granted I might have made more work for myself since I double every recipe I make....but I was smart and did all the prep during the day.

I'll start with the bread portion of the meal....(pats thighs) This was my first time to make Focaccia Bread and I think I just found my favorite bread to bake.....

it tasted out of this world. I tried the food processor way and I've got mixed feelings about it....only b/c when I make bread I like to use my hands...makes me feel all Laura Ingalls like....(grins) But have to admit (don't tell) I will probably make it again this method in the future....less work for momma

The food processor made my life a little bit easier yesterday. I ended up making 3 kinds of focaccia....

I doubled the recipe and pressed my dough into 2 8" rounds and 1 9x13 pans. I followed the recipe to a T

the smell of the bread made my mouth water....I knew if I sampled before the meal there may not have been any left. Bread is my weakness....(pats thighs again)

Sorry there are not any 'real' pictures of the main course....I was busy cooking...serving....and toting small babes around. When you have a houseful (9) of hungry people ...stopping to take pictures is not an option.....

I can't say enough about the sauce....It was tangy....and sweet...with just the right amount of basil to it....I may or may not have stolen some to freeze for a rainy day....and I may or may not have grabbed an extra meatball and sauce for today's lunch....and I may or may not have mopped my sauce up on my plate with my bread. I think I even saw my FIL break up a few pieces and pour the sauce on it. Please try this recipe out...You will not be disappointed.

The meatballs turned out moist and perfect too. Even Dude Friend ate a whole meatball....I couldn't keep him away. Yes, the 9 month old inhaled the meat. He's my little garbage disposal...he'll eat anything right now...I sure hope he keeps this up...

I followed all of the recipes and didn't change anything....and I won't when we make these again.....I found the flavors perfect the way it was...

For reference ...the recipe says it makes 8 giant meatballs...I would compare them to baseballs...nice portion. Simmering them in the sauce to finish cooking is what made these little babies into the definition of perfect...

After doing 3 loads of dishes and hand washing more pots than I care to imagine....(all for just that meal)....I think I'll put my feet up today and read books with the babies....

Gobble Gobble...Turkey Hunting

2011-11-16T09:13:00.002-06:00

Turkey Season is upon us....and yes, I had to bake some Turkey Cookies for the kids....(ok and a few teachers that keep begging for cookies)

I thought about using a template, but then noticed a few girls were using a flower cutter (now that I had) and thought they turned out just precious.

I am back to using my favorite Buttercream Meringue Icing again....I just don't like the taste or look when it dries of the Royal. This dries firm, but probably not hard enough to package and ship. Since they go from the table to a belly...it's ok.

What's on your dinner plans for Turkey Day? Any new recipes you are wanting to share?

I've got a Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, Garlic, and Shallots Recipe I'm gonna bust out. Force those kids to eat some greens....

Speaking of food....You know tonight is the Wednesday dinner with the Inlaws here....MIL bought a new cookbook...she said that we have to share it (it's in my possession so come and try to take it) The recipes look amazing and each one has a color gorgeous photo to go with it. Tonight I am making Fresh Baked Focaccia Bread. Giant Meatballs (the recipe looks fantastic) with Tuscan Marinara and an Aged Balsamic Vinaigrette Dressing (they have it on a fresh pesto mozzarella salad)...I'm just doing the dressing with a normal salad. Dessert....Our favorite Banana Pudding...that I have to double....My kids beg for more and more...and again the next day.

I'll post recipe of the dinner after I give it a sample...can't have you making yucky food now can I?

I Can't Let It Go.....

2011-11-14T08:41:00.001-06:00

Back in 2007....Yes, 2007 an incident happened. Hubs reminded me of this incident yesterday which had me all fighting mad again....(I think he purposely does it to see me all fired up)

Story....

My dear hubby likes to have things in sets of... well a lot. For instance, we have like 3 sets of silverware....so many pillows and towels that you would laugh at. Basically if something we have goes on sale he wants more....His reason is....one day the towels will get worn and we'll have a backup set. When we find something we like we stick w/it.

Well when it comes to plates he's no different. Garden Ridge Pottery was having a 75% off sale on this certain pattern of dishes. No name brand, but matched our theme of stuff....rustic style and some had roosters on them. This collection had a serving platter...pitcher....huge serving bowls...cake stand etc. They were really adorable. So we bought as much as we could....big square dinner plates, small dinner plates, cereal bowls...big round dinner plates and small round dinner plates. I know I know you're thinking why square and round....I agree pick 1...but since the plates came out to $..50 a piece etc why not buy all the set??!!!.....He said he wanted to find 12 pieces of each.

So I set about driving all over town to all the different Garden Ridges hunting the sale racks for this pattern. I finally hit the last store way on the out skirts of town and make a beeline for this collection. I was floored...they had sooo many that I was angry that I didn't try there first......I think I was laughing and jumping up and down w/joy (if only you knew how far I had driven around town the past 4 days only to come up empty handed you would have jumped too) So insert the part which makes me mad......

Picture the scene...chick w/buggy down aisle obviously really happy about some dishes.....(ME) and some customer was next to me asking what all the fuss was about. I told her the quick story of how I had driven all over town looking for these dishes to complete my set. She asked me why I needed so many and I told her why....she made some snide comment about being a waste etc...(not really b/c how many times have you chipped a plate and then didn't have a full set????) I grab a handful of the small square plates and start counting them and placing them in my buggy. I needed 4 more. When I turned around she picked up the last 4 and said "ohhh these will look great on my table."

OK wait a minute....I NEEDED THOSE LAST 4 .......SHE JUST LISTENED TO MY STORY OF HOW I HAVE DRIVEN ALL OVER TOWN TO FIND THESE AND THIS WAS THE LAST OF THEM..

I said something about...."Man I'm still 4 short" so I get on my cell phone and speak loudly to my mother about how I am still 4 plates short so this chick would hear me....

She keeps them and I'm still 4 short. I am a weak weak girl. If I was stronger I would have said

Gosh lady....didn't you just hear me tell my story... don't take those last 4 plates that I need for my collection....do you really need those for ur table?"

But I didn't and she walked away w/them.

Everyday that I open my cabinets and see 8 plates I still get miffed....

Lesson learned.....NEVER SPEAK TO PPL WHEN YOU FIND SOMETHING ON SALE AND 2ND DON'T TALK TO PPL IN MESQUITE TEXAS....THEY ARE RUDE! (not you Brandy)

Wow I sound so harsh......but yes I did chip a plate in the last 4 years and I'm down to 7.

I should let this go....I really should....I just might in another 4 years

Wobble Wobble

2011-11-11T14:40:00.003-06:00

Nothing like watching a newbie on legs...

That'd be Dude Friend.....I love love love the beginning stages of walking....that "so unstable but you can't help but giggle" strut that those sweet babies do.

Can you tell I'm in total love with him?!!!

Not Your Usual Thankful List....

2011-11-10T08:14:00.004-06:00

It's a given you're thankful for family, friends, hubs, children....seriously we know...I mean if you weren't we'd have the problem right? (grins)

So I'm gonna tell you the 'other' stuff I'm thankful for...

~Shania Twain's "Man, I Feel Like A Woman" --- Why? Because Momma got 8 straight hours of sleep last night and Dude slept 11. Yes, first time for the 11 on his end....yes, he's late on the sleep through the night train....(wiggles hips) Let's go girls......

~Sweetened Condensed Milk--- Because that little can of sweet gooey goodness can make just about anything taste out of this world.

~Peppermint Mocha Creamer---No explanation needed

~Cows and Pigs--- Without them my Play off Chili just wouldn't taste the same

~Crock Pots---My chili can sit in it all day and I can take all the credit for such a great dinner...pretending like I slaved all day in the kitchen.

~Garage Sales --- I just realized that one person's trash is my treasure...some of my favorite baking pans and kitchen gadgets are from those sales.

~Frequent trips to Wallyworld --- Because the ppl know me there and will open up a closed lane just to check me out....(being friendly pays off)

~Microwaves --- Although they might truly cause some brain errors (and could be the reason for my craziness) it heats up said Coffee with Peppermint Mocha Creamer when I can't get even my first cup finished in 3 hrs

~2 sets of washers and dryers --- It allows me to either be equally as lazy to let loads just sit in there calling my name.....or equally productive and got 4 loads done at once.

~iphones --- As much as I pretended to hubs I didn't want one...and then he surprising bought me one....I ♥ IT ...it really comes in handy when you are nursing a baby in dark room....Pinterest calls

~Unlimited Text Message Family Plan for our Teens --- Oldest child had over 12,000 txt messages last month. (do the math)

~Birthdays --- Child #2 turns 13 on Saturday....gives us another reason to EAT CAKE. (well a cookie cake...that's what the sweet boy requested momma make)

~Blogs --- without them I wouldn't have any place to 'steal' all my ideas from

You Evil Evil Little Site

2011-11-08T08:20:00.000-06:00

Dinner is usually always on the table at 5:15 ...no later than 5:30

Yesterday? No such luck.

Why? Pinterest.

Yesterday while pinning I ran across this photo....(not mine...the cool chick over at Brown Paper Packages)

I knew I had to make these for the kids....Little did I know how the day would get away from me....I told child #2 and 3 they could play until 5:45....(plenty of time to make these and fix dinner right?)

Nah...I was busy doing other stuff....and then got my ingredients for those sweet gooey goodness treats....Clock check...5:30 pm ...still no dinner. (directions below again took directly from Brown Paper Packages...love her blog name)

Ingredients:

1/2 c. butter

1 c. light corn syrup

2 c. brown sugar

1 can sweetened condensed milk

1 tsp. vanilla

8-10 apples

Directions:

Combine the first three ingredients in a large saucepan. When the butter is melted, add the condensed milk. Stirring constantly, cook to 230 degrees (soft ball stage). Take off heat, and stir in vanilla.

5. Dip your apples!

I found that waiting just a couple of minutes after your caramel is done to dip apples really made a big difference--when it's super hot, it has more of a tendency to slide off. You don't need to wait too long--less than 5 minutes.

6. Once your apples have been dipped in the caramel, place them on your prepared cookie sheet. I let mine sit for about 10 minutes or so (either in the fridge or at room temperature) to harden before I add any other toppings. Leftover caramel can be poured in a buttered dish to be cut and eaten later...

(ok back to me...Laura)
And leftover caramel I did have ...and leftover I did pour into a buttered dish....and leftover MELT IN MOUTH TREATS I DID EAT.

It was pure chaos while making these...

Reid was in the highchair demanding more cheerios...
Lily was jumping up and down wanting to help momma stir the hot boiling candy....
Oldest child wondering where dinner was....asking if I was sick or something since it was way past when I have dinner ready....
Mini Me insanely asking if she could stick her finger in the 230' boiling candy b/c it smelled so good. (deep sigh)
Then enter Hedgie (child 2) ....rushes into house with arms open wide saying "I'm here for my food...plate me up"

He looks around confused...."Did I miss dinner already"

Me: "No honey mommy hasn't made it yet"

(looks at siblings) "Is mom sick"

Lily: "No she's busy Interesting"

Me: "no Lily it's Pin-teresting"

Kate: "Now can I stick my finger in"

Me: "Not unless you want your skin to peel off"

Hedgie: "So .....does that mean we are having dinner tonight? "

Me: "Yes, but I was making treats"

Oldest: " but you always have dinner ready by 5"

Me: "well today I don't"

Hedgie: "soooo that's a yes, that tonight sometime dinner will be made"

Lily: "Mommy Mommy Mommy....you are ruining my apples...you are making them all brown..."

Mini Me: "no Lily she's adding caramel to the apples ....can I lick it now?"

This is the point I wanted to scream GET OUT. but didn't.....hubs walked into the kitchen and started and finished dinner for me.....(awww)

Point of story....

Don't start Interesting (as Lily says) at dinner time....

But do make this recipe It's a keeper.

Daddy's and Daughter's

2011-11-07T08:00:00.002-06:00

We need to teach our daughters to distinguish between a man who flatters her and a man who compliments her

a man who spends money on her and a man who invests in her

a man who views her as property and a man who views her properly

a man who lusts after her and a man who loves her

a man who believes he is God's gift to women and a man who remembers a woman was God's gift to man

5 Years Ago....

2011-11-04T08:29:00.000-05:00

True Elopement Style....(our lil country wedding)

We told only one soul....My friend Kimberly....I'm not even sure why I told...(probably b/c I can't keep a secret)

B and I decided on a Wed....I mean why wait...we had been dating a while...let's just do it......no stress....no fuss....We called a B&B (how rustic is that house?!)

and they did an elopement package...and had 1 room left. I'm sure the owners were a bit surprised when I said the wedding was that Saturday and could they put everything together....She said NO PROBLEM. Kathy did a fantastic job....the cake, music, flowers, room, and dinner that night in a nearby barn. How much more "us" could that have been?!

Thanks to me telling that one dear soul Kimberly, she asked if we had the marriage license? WHAT? WHY? Well b/c there was a 72 hr waiting period. (eek) We called the license office and they closed in 30 mins...and yes we needed it then 0r no wedding on Saturday. Off we ran and got it with 1 minute to spare....(I was sweating)

Saturday came and the day was perfect....

we found some cute tack and feed shops that sold the most incredible furniture. B bought me a rustic floor lamp. (points). Then we walked the small town's main square and bought a few more trinkets before heading back to the B&B to get ready.

The ceremony was perfect....just the two of us overlooking the lake

....couldn't have planned it better myself. (grins)

We got married on 11-4 (if you reverse the date it's my birthday) and so it was only fitting to get married at 5:07 (if you reverse that it's his bday july 5th)

I still chuckle about the guests staying that weekend. Most were young couples like us and were there celebrating their anniversaries. Everyone was shocked that we just up and eloped. Eyebrows were raised....and so being me I gave my 2 cents..."No I'm not pregnant...we actually got married b/c we love each other..." Crazy that in this day in age that's the first thing you think when a couple elopes. Everyone had a good laugh and champagne was passed around and toasted us on our happy day....

Just imagine the phone calls the next day to our families. (my mother was not amused)

We had a reception a few months later in a barn (where else) for friends and family......

Happy 5 crazy years B.

Gotta end it with a little Collin Raye's One Boy One Girl song...makes me all giddy

Hello My Name Is Laura and I'm Addicted to Pinterest

2011-11-02T09:24:00.002-05:00

There I said it....

And you know most of you should say it too..

(If you aren't on the Pinterest bandwagon get on now...shoot me an email and I'll send an invite)

*yes, yesterday's post photo of Dude w/the 'loves' next to him...yes...Pinterest is where I got the idea. If only I had done that for all the months.

Yesterday I did NOTHING. I mean like I really didn't do housework or cook dinner...(we did take out) Wait...I did unload the dishes/load dirty and start a load of laundry. I did feed the babies...(Lily had an alien spaceship Samwitch...for lunch)

Did the house fall down? Did the Earth quit spinning b/c Mommy DID NOTHING? nope...

What was I doing? WHY CRAFTING PINTEREST STUFF ALL DAY OF COURSE.

I keep saying I want to do this and that...so yesterday I went for it.

Burlap ....Burlap....and Moss

For starters...no one mentioned how messy cutting burlap and moss were. Hello.....have a work space you want messy. My poor (half made) craft table. (another Pinterest idea steal) I bought an old door and made a table into it. I just haven't been down to Lowe's to have the glass cut. Yesterday I wish I had done that...I sure needed a flat surface....

Anywho...

I've been dying to make one of those Moss Letters that they have in the PB catalog. I found Moss sheets for $6.99 a sheet. My letter took 2 sheets.....I'm thinking Christmas Gifts for the family. This was fun to make and super easy. Next time I'm using foam board for a sturdy back...I used poster board and then had to glue that to my favorite S.....(must see if I can find another big S like that)

Just like they said....Trace around your letter about 1" if you can and glue down and overlap on back.....if there are some bare spots then just glue tiny pieces. I happen to love how mine turned out

Next I moved onto Burlap...and freezer paper

I cut Freezer Paper the size of a sheet of paper and cut burlap the same....Ironed the 2 together and was ready to print (just remember shiny side down on burlap)

*note: don't wear black...burlap is fuzzy when cut

A tip when printing with your printer....yes it will jam...at least mine did....what I found worked best was cutting the edge one more time with your paper and burlap for a solid edge. I think I didn't trim mine and had 2 different layer lengths and that's why it was catching (doh)

I made a picture frame w/an S for the guest bath

and a burlap "Give Thanks" banner.

The kids didn't like the font on the banner b/c they couldn't tell what it said....(booo)

I printed the letters....then cut a V out of it......then I used a hole punch and used tulle to hang them. I like how it turned out. But I think it's still missing something...maybe some fall-ish material on the ends?

Next I'm gonna look for some wheat stalks and burlap and make some stuff for my bare mantle (we just got the mantle ...needless to say I'm going crazy wanting to decorate for each season now)

on to RECIPES

If you pin recipes you may have realized that they are hit or miss....Night before last was a huge HIT. Think Macaroni Grill's Pasta Milano.

The family must have said a million time how fantastic it was and begged me to triple the recipe next time...I just eyeballed things for a double this time around.

I didn't really follow her recipe too much.....I added a few things...and probably did things a bit different too...here's what I did

Smoky Chicken Pasta

7 chicken breasts
1 bottle mesquite marinade (whatever I could find in store)
1 package bacon
1/2 onion finely chopped
3 tbs garlic
3 cups heavy cream
lots of Parmesan (I just shake it until it looks good)
Bow tie Pasta

Git ur slow cooker out ma and pour the whole bottle of marinade over ur cluckers
I slow cooked mine from 9:30-4 on slow and low. (don't peek...u'll lose your heat ma'am)

Cut up bacon before cooking so they are nice bite size pieces. (member folks it shrinks when cooking) and cook that pig up. (set aside) pour out a lil of that bacon grease...leave a bit for cooking ur onion.
Cook onion until a bit translucent and then toss in some garlic....cook another minute
Pour in your cream and stir. Cook until it bubbles a bit and then pour in Parmesan. Wanna cook this to thicken it up a bit. Toss in your bacon and keep stirring. Shake you some S & P to taste....Viola.

Now get your cluckers from the slow cooker and shred.

To serve...put some pasta in the bowl...pour sauce over and sprinkle some of that delish chicken on top.

A winner winner chicken dinner

Sorry no pictures...I forgot...it was Halloween and I was trying to get the chidden fed before candy time

9 Months In and 9 Months Out

2011-11-01T11:00:00.002-05:00

Seems like I was pregnant longer than he's actually been toddling around on this earth. I can remember rubbing my belly while watching his #2 sister spin around praying for him to be a calm child.

Prayers get answered like that....he is a calm child and did I mention he sleeps? (something she needs to learn from him)

Yes, he's as sweet as he looks....

Last night was Halloween and Dude fought me kicking and screaming like I was sticking him with pins or something. (seriously...I did a check of his costume and nothing) I'd like to think $13 isn't cheap .....that a baby costume should hold up longer than 30 seconds...but the minute I went to button the thing all the buttons snapped off. (you kidding me?) I thought well that's fine...at least he will be cute and not buttoned...ummm no...Fail first halloween attempt. He went as himself.

Tis all good...my Lily child who wears costumes for oh all about 3 mins (or less) was all ready to go by 5pm (1.5 hrs before we were meeting her friends) decked out in a full bunny costume hat and all. (had the costume from back in the Kate costume days) I was mildly shocked to say the least that she wanted to dress up. She refused to take it off and was ready to get candy like NOW. Somehow I held her off (costume still on mind you). Big sissy's BFF came over and they ohh'd and awe'd over Lily the bunny.....then off we went.

(bunny and Linus touching the great pumpkin)

Last night was a ball...Lily loved going door to door...she would hop along the way...sing songs...swing her lil treat bucket...just loving life. Isn't that how childhood memories should be? She would remind me we don't go to houses with the lights off...and then point to ones lit up and take off running.

Dude was a trooper...thankfully I had a snack trap full of baby nummies to keep him happy. He did his usual "OHHHH UHHHHH" and pointed at everything and all the people out with such excitement. Both little ones really seemed to enjoy themselves....I mean who doesn't love the great outdoors and all the candy people just give you for looking cute.

I'm off to hit the Halloween sales for next year...gotta build up my costume trunk for little boys....the girl clothes are busting at the seams

Happy Miscellany Halloween Monday....Guess Who's Walking

2011-10-31T08:54:00.002-05:00

one. we have lift off

yep you read that right....lil dude is walking. i mean i guess i knew it was coming since that's all he's been practicing. on friday hubs and i mentioned how we needed more little video shots of dude and so i grabbed my phone and started taking one....sure enough momma caught his first steps on video....of course you hear me tell him he's gonna fall...i couldn't figure out for the life of me what he was doing haha. then little panty queen jumps in front. (deep sigh) ...well at least she had clothes on.

two. tom shom...get u a pair of GROOBS

they keep talking about tom's shoes (sorry carissa) but i don't get the deal. mini me had to have a pair and my (AWESOME) mil bought her a pair. i mean what gives? she looks like she is wearing a pair of slippers. gross. you want to do the whole 'give to charity' thing...then go here....www.groobs.com. this company was started by an old friend of mine from school (dated his brother)....he is still as crazy as he was growing up...and hasn't changed. (thankfully)!! watch his FUNNY video about the thirst project. (one of the many charities your money can go to if you buy a pair) ....and want to check out his cool shoes. basically it's buy a pair and 50% goes to a charity of your choice...or if you pick the Thirst Project...100% goes to it...the shoes rock...I'm buying the kids some for Christmas.....

three. trick and no treats

part of me wants to hide in the house and not share any candy. i mean i bought it with my money ...and half the kids coming are bad and don't deserve it right? (i'm sure mine are in that category). kidding...puuulease. one of the boys will sit out on the bench in front dressed in his best spooky attire and hold the candy bowl. they hold perfectly still...making ppl wonder if they are real or not. occasionally they will scare the living daylights out of some older punks...it's fun to watch. last year we got a strobe light (i can't watch..it makes my vertigo worse) and a spooky soundtrack of spooky noises. i can't wait.

four. ghosts and goblins

what are your little ones this fun candy hunting day? lily can't decide. she changes daily. yesterday she told me she wanted to be a juice box. I MEAN REALLY LILY?! that would have been fun to make but it's too late. i'll lay out a handful of her costumes and she can pick. as for little dude...i finally broke down and bought a tiger costume from wallyworld last night. i figure it's gonna be cold and he'll need to dress warm....i failed mini me...she isn't going to be the paper doll....MOMMA CAN'T DRAW...and it looked so lame. we didn't come up with a cut costume until last night...and no way to do it...Raggedy Ann...so we'll save that for next year....maybe i'll get it on sale after the holiday....oldest child is walking with his chick for halloween...they want to take lily.....awww young love. and child #2 is the spooky kid on porch this year

five. b, b, and w

birthdays...my brothers: one turned 40 on friday....the other turns 24 today. happy birthday to both you crazy nuts.....babies....a friend just sent her positive pregnancy test to me via txt. part of me thought 'hey...maybe 6 kids would be fun' i said PART of me. then reid got up once and lily was up from 3-6...and that part went out the window. i miss sleep. weddings...a friend got married this weekend...elopement style...just like me and hubs did. like true style...told no one...and it was just the 2 of you.....made me realize ours is going to be 5 yrs ago this coming friday...yep an anniversary post is coming from me very soon....(twirls)

six. jeggings

i broke down and bought both of the girls jeggings...i have to admit...as much as i made fun of them...they are freaking adorable on them. i want them to wear them everyday. and i want to be 40 lbs lighter and 4" taller to wear a pair too....(twirls again)

So That's Why They Say That.....(Reminder alert)

2011-10-28T09:19:00.000-05:00

You know when they say as a helpful reminder to change the batteries in your smoke/carbon monoxide detectors every daylight savings/time change...well listen to them.

Or you could be like us...awake after midnight chasing the beeping sound from room to room trying to figure out which battery is low before it wakes all the kids. (trust me when you are a parent to 5 kids...you don't want a domino effect of waking children)

A few weeks ago the carbon monoxide detectors were talking to each other at 4am. Hubs slept through it...I wanted it to shut up and not wake the kids up. But alas, I was the only one that couldn't sleep that night. (batteries low...when one is low they chirp back and forth)

So last night .....picture hubs and I running around in the dark listening to all the rooms upstairs and down trying to find the beeping. The ~~dumb~~ dog was freaked out by the beeping and ran upstairs...A HUGE MISTAKE. He got a scolding...(well basically when he encountered me in the hall he took off back downstairs like his life depended on it...don't mess with momma) We finally located the sound coming from oldest child's room.

Imagine waking up to a big man on a 6' ladder and a hot mess of a woman shining a flash light up on your ceiling. Oldest child woke....stared at us and rolled over back to sleep. Either he thought "my crazy parents are at it again" or had no clue we were there. (found out this morning that it was the latter)

I counted....we have 9 detectors to go around changing....

Heed my sleepless night....change the batteries in your beepers...You'll thank me later.

....to ~~beat down those who hate boring kid videos~~ here is a video of sweet dude and what he does daily with chairs/stools/high chairs in our house.

Lily-ism's Continued....

2011-10-26T09:27:00.000-05:00

These are Lily's pumpkins....Steve and Bob. No idea, so don't ask. I assume she got that from the older boys...they name everyone Steve and Bob. She loves Bob.....that is her "awww I love you so much" face.

Just a minute ago she shushed me. Yes, shushed me.

Lily: "momma shush"

me: "what?"

lily: "MOMMA I said to be quiet and not check my panties"

me: "Lily if you need to go potty then let's go on the potty"

lily: "No MOMMA, be real quiet and turn around I may or may not be trying to poop in my Hello Kitty sparkle panties"

That's my girl

No she didn't poop...and she refused to sit on the potty...she rarely will.

I can't force her on the potty either...it looks and sounds like I'm trying to bathe a cat.

I really hope I can look back at these blog posts of 'potty training lily days' and laugh at how long ago it seems.

....more Lily-isms

me: "Lily...can momma ask why you don't like using the potty"

Lily: "sure momma"

me: "ok why don't you like sitting on the potty all the time?"

Lily: "did you know I can make a small o and a big O with my mouth...watch." (and then proceeds to show me by puckering her lips and then making a big mouthed O)

I guess that conversation was over

....more Lily-isms

(giggles and more giggles)

me...looks over and sees an upside lily on the couch...her head is hanging over the edge

me: "what's so funny silly lily"

lily: "look momma...look at my boogey i put on the floor...it's so cuuuuute"

sure enough there is a sweet boogey on my floor...I mean I should be grateful she's not eating them huh?!

....more Lily-isms

Lily running around with a fly swatter screaming "Die you suckers Die"

....more Lily-isms, inside her imagination

"help momma help....My shirt is on fire"

(panic ripping through my heart....looks over and sees Lily standing on the couch)

me: "What? What? Your shirt doesn't look on fire..."

Lily: "Momma get the Dragon...he's about to blow fire on me again" (points at Dude Friend who puked)

....more Lily-isms

"Momma I tried playing hide n seek with Jesus...but He finds me every time"

Had to end with a Dude Photo

Tricks and Treats...Halloween Cookies

2011-10-24T08:43:00.001-05:00

(do those spiders look like roaches? (shivers)

I made some TREATS this weekend for the kids...they take a few days to set ...so today these little sweet treats are ready for eating. (and yes dear father in law...I've pulled some aside for you too)

The spider webs were bigger than my outstretched hand....

The pumpkins were a favorite of mine...

Little Lily is obsessed with all things Hello Kitty lately.....from her shirts, dresses, night nights, panties, coloring books, drinking cups, toothbrush, and begging for a dvd...(do they even make those) I told her to put most of those things on a "wish" list. She is more into the "now" list than a "wish" list though...who isn't?

I traced Hello Kitty's face and and made a template....then got to work on some extra cookies.

Every little girl needs a Hello Kitty Halloween cookie to start the week off right?

I think the Hello Kitty turned out adorable....

Now I'm trying to come up with some TRICKS for my little goblins. It's like April Fools only more fun.......gotta get the little boy down the street too.

The other day when Mini Me was coming home from school she saw two boys walking up to our door. (one of them was the boy a few doors down...guess he didn't recognize Kate) She asked them what they were doing? They said about to Ding Dong Ditch that house (points to hers) She said "Well that's my house and if you wake the baby my mom will kill you" (that'a girl) They took off running.

I thought that story was a scream....and so of course I had to txt his mom. I love her and wanted her to know I wasn't mad, but what he was up to. She was sooo sorry and said she had caught him and that boy trying to do that to another house and read them the riot act. I told her to tell him to beware....I was going to give him a Trick instead of a Treat when he least expected it. (rubs hands together in evil like manner) Gotta love little 4th grade sweet boys.

(For those that keep asking for my recipes...I get mine at www.Karenscookies.net. I buy most of my cutters there....and supplies. I can't say enough about their customer service either)

Pumpkin Mousse Cupcakes....and Dude

2011-10-20T08:52:00.001-05:00

I mentioned yesterday about a Pumpkin Mousse filled cupcake.

Well before I posted I had to try it out ....so I could tell you if it was worthy or not.

For starters ....yes, yes, it's worthy.

2nd....I would change the name ...it didn't taste like pumpkin and the cupcake was like pound cake....BUT EVERYONE LOVED IT.

The icing recipe was a joke for me...either I am totally insane...or they are. Read on....

Ingredients

Cupcakes
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
1 1/4 cups sugar
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3/4 cup milk
1 cup whipped topping, thawed
1/2 cup canned pumpkin pie filling
Frosting
5 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped
5 tablespoons brewed coffee
1/3 cup unsalted butter, cut up

Directions

Cupcakes

1. Heat oven to 375 degrees F. Line 16 muffin cups with paper liners. (I only got 12 out of this)

2. In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder and salt. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until smooth. Add eggs, vanilla and 1/4 cup of the milk; beat 3 minutes, until fluffy. (what does that even mean when beating eggs and milk....it wasn't fluffy...but soupy so maybe fail #1 for me) In three additions, alternately beat in flour mixture and remaining 1/2 cup milk. Spoon scant 1/4 cup into each liner. (gotta love ice cream scoopers)

3. Bake at 375 degrees F for 20 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool on wire rack.

4. Blend whipped topping and pumpkin pie filling. (try adding a 1/2 tsp of Pumpkin Pie Spice...)Spoon into a pastry bag fitted with a medium-size round tip. Insert into top of each cake, about 1/2 inch deep, and squeeze until top starts to rise slightly. I only had 12 cupcakes to fill...if I had 16 then I wouldn't have enough filling...I barely had enough for the 12. I also would have gone down 1" instead of the 1/2". So suggestion...double this filling and stick the sucker in deeper)

Frosting

5. Microwave chocolate and coffee for 30 seconds. Stir, then microwave 15 more seconds. Stir until smooth; add 4 pieces of butter at a time and stir until smooth. Let stand until spreadable consistency. (ok I got a ganache with these directions. A really yummy one too, but......I let it sit out for a bit and still didn't get to frosting consistency like in the photo they showed. I ended up adding more chocolate chips to make it thicken up.....then I got out my 1 lb box of powdered sugar and some cream and beat all that together for a FANTASTIC ganachey goodness frosting)

6. Frost cupcakes; chill until set.

Hubs asked if I made a pound cake....I said nope...he said he loved loved loved the cupcake texture...(he's hard to please)

I hate websites that only let you rate a recipe and not comment why. I love reading reviews...sometimes ppl have great suggestions...or if you had problems you can read you were not alone...or how ppl corrected the issues....(like with the frosting)

I might even try these again but w/a fruit filling...and a icing to match...maybe a cream cheese one...the possibilities are endless

If you were going through Dude withdrawals...here he is in all his snotty glory (yes ...still has his cold...boo)

A Trip Back in Time

2011-10-19T11:43:00.000-05:00

I've been reminiscing lately (enter song from Little River Band...for those of you old enough to know who they are...) anywho...

I took a trip to Scotland/Ireland back in October around this time many moons ago....Best Trip Everrrr.

Thought I'd share a few pics...and stories along the way.

First stop was Edinburgh Scotland....Most of you know my sweet vertigo that I have...well that pertains to car rides too...and bus rides through winding streets = wooza. We took a trip to Glamis Castle...

I'm not sure but I think this castle dates back to the 1300's. Talking about rich in history. I missed the whole ride up there...I was busy trying to not toss my cookies....I held it in until we parked....I remember bolting for the doors and inside the castles screaming "bathroom bathroom bathroom" where I then proceeded to lose everything ....Needless to say I was white as a sheet sick to my stomach the rest of the day/tour. Thankfully it was freezing inside and that made me feel better. I will spare you with pictures of me since I was the color of my coat at the time....I mean hey, who can say they puked in the Queens house?

Being a little girl from Texas....anything with history over 200+ yrs old always has me in a grand mood.

I like trying to picture the people who actually walked those halls so many hundreds and hundreds of years ago...(besides I'm a sucker for ghosts and old haunted stories)

Look under the canopy of the Queen's bed...they embroidered all the names of the babies born there.

I don't remember much of the day...Other than wanting to cry each time it was time to get back on the bus for the next location. Thankfully some sweet soul on the bus had Dramamine and I downed 3 and took a long snooze the rest of the way home.

I was back on my land legs just in time for dinner that night at Edinburgh's Castle.

Had a little good food...drinks...and Haggis Story w/ dancing to boot. And yes, I ate Haggis...and no, it wasn't that bad...(grins)

Outside the castle after dinner...

toured st andrew's golf course....had dinner on the Queens Yacht and tour of the town....tour of a whiskey brewery and dinner at an Inn....lots of great old buildings...lots of great food...and lots of entertaining friends...

Off to Ireland....more great drinks...and friends.

Took a day trip to Wicklow to Powerscourt Garden

and then walking through the fields in Glendalough...the crosses were amazing. (you know me and my collection...too bad I couldn't get one home in my pocket)

The views were breathtaking..

Here is St Kevin's Church...Irish saint who was known as the founder and first abbot of Glendalough in County Wicklow, Ireland. Died in around 618. (again loving some history)

More on my Ireland trip for another day...(Temple Bar...and St Stephen's Green......)

I've got Pumpkin Mousse filled cupcakes to finish baking....(recipe to follow tomorrow)

You Know You Are A Big Family When....

2011-10-17T13:58:00.004-05:00

...none of your children have ever ridden in the same car at once.

...you go through a loaf a bread a day.

...when your bathroom closet looks like Sam's Club (toilet paper)

...you're out w/your kids and someone asks if you run a daycare.

...you have to cook in 2 9x13 pans and don't have any leftovers.

...you buy 4+ gallons of milk a week and don't worry about the expiration date.

...you always do a head count when you leave a building.

...when you buy double of the 'family size' stuff

...the checker at the grocery store asks if you are throwing a party.

...someone asks if they are all yours.

...you buy your pots and pans in the restaurant supply store (we just got a bunch of ours at Sam's Club).

...you finally got your dream car.... a 15 passenger van. (needing to clarify...no we didn't get a 15 passenger van...would be nice though)

Me and the Hubs

2011-10-14T08:37:00.000-05:00

Great things about iphones and chicks? You can sit next to your man on the couch while he's watching sports and still Pin. (giggles)

So last night I was surfing Pinterest and hubs was watching sports .....I usually always make him look at something I find interesting or just plain crazy. (He's a gem...he looks and seems to pretend to care...win win)

Last night it was the old man wearing the "hair sweater and ski boots" poor man...he has got to be sweating up a storm w/that....(anywho)

There was the one of those video wedding proposals....this one was of the guy leading the girl to the field and ppl would come up 2 at a time showing the her cards w/dates and things. I said something about how you can't top the other video wedding proposal ....hubs said 'oh the one in the movie theater' (see he does pay attention to me and all my crazy things) and I said yes....

It was too small on my phone to see what the actual cards said that they were holding and I told hubs I think it was dates of their "Firsts"....

I mentioned....ohhhh please...as if that guy remembers their first stuff...I mean the actual dates...puulease. He's a guy.

Now hubs knows I take pride in remembering our first date .....(the other stuff I couldn't even begin to tell you) ....but I make it a point to relive for him the date...what we were wearing...what we ate...how we acted....the whole shabang.

Hubs: "when was our first date?"

Me: "June 24"

Hubs: "are you kidding me..............seriously"

Me: (total shock...that's not the date....OMG) NOOOOOOOOOOOOO I mean June 4th...June 4th.....

Hubs: "uh huh...blog about that"

For the record...I pulled that youtube video up on my laptop...and it made me cry....very creative and sweet...my sons will have their work cut out for them one day....

In case you want to see the video...here ya go

Source: youtube.com via Tanya on Pinterest

It's Ok Thursday....

2011-10-13T10:10:00.000-05:00

It's ok.....

...that you made a cookie cake for the kids yesterday and forgot to leave a blank spot for hubs (he hates icing on his cookies) You had a back up dessert...Lemon Bars. (yummo)

...that your daughter shoots you with lasers from her fingertips. She was a wearing a tutu and and fairy wings...so she's still your lil girl.

...that said daughter won't let you even attempt to put anything in her hair ...let alone brush it. She fell asleep and you put some adorable ponies in her hair and took pictures to prove it.

...that you are turning into your mother. She's pretty awesome.

...that again said little girl, got your phone and took over 100 photos of herself. You had a giggle at all the shots she took while deleting them.

...to be excited about a chain letter than came in the mail for ur daughter...it involves stickers. Now that's a chain letter worthy of beating down your friend's kids with.

...you are thinking of repainting the pantry door an accent color...because Pinterest said so.

...that people make fun of you for sending in the Publishers Clearing House letters...We'll see who's laughing when you win.

Me and My Quirks

2011-10-12T12:03:00.001-05:00

(disclaimer...I feel I should say...these are MY views below...if you don't agree or don't do some of these things...I'm not saying you're horrible...just telling you what I do....if you take it personal than the fault is within you....just saying) on a happier note....

I've had a lot of emails...comments about my "about me" section and I thought I would get to some "explainin"

The God fearing woman and Aggie wife need no explanations...whoop

breastfeeding, baby wearing, midwife using, natural birthing, cloth diaper lover, non vax'n and now cosleeping....homeschooling ....(to name a few)

Breastfeeding....

I'm pretty much using what God gave me....no bottles to wash...no formula to mix....nothing to buy....(well except some fun nursing tanks and shirts) and comes straight from the valve already heated up to perfections....portable too

I know most say they've had issues...etc...I've had pretty much everything that could go wrong go wrong...but I know how it is supposed to feel when it's right. It's what works for me....I want my kids to get enough of the 'good stuff' in them to build antibodies. I understand nursing isn't for everyone...I'm just saying what works for me. (Did I say that twice?)

I've been nursing now for over 3 yrs straight. I nursed Lily through my pregnancy with Dude. I weaned her a few months after he was born b/c I couldn't keep up with both. I assume either Dude will wean himself in a few years....or I'll wean him around the same age as his sister. There is something about cradling that sweet bundle in my arms and watching them suck away....knowing that I'm their comfort right now....My motto...? A little booboo can solve anything (grins)

Baby Wearing...

My babies love love love being held....We, as mom's, don't always have extra hands for carrying babes and still doing our "chores". I don't know where I would be w/o my wraps, slings, side holders. Reid has been worn since the minute he popped out.....I find him the happiest when strapped to me. Who doesn't love having a happy baby on your hip/chest to snuggle and inhale (who doesn't love some baby fresh scents?) Trust me .....they won't always want to be strapped and by your side forever...take advantage of it while you can. Besides it frees up the buggy cart at the grocery store when you have multiple kids with you....

Midwife Using...

Again...what works for me....I had a HORRIBLE experience w/the epidural with my first. I had pain and numbness for 6-8 months on one side after the birth. Did I mention it was HORRIBLE? I also had horrible hospital experiences. I find it soo hard to labor naturally strapped to a bed....doing labor on a dr's time and not your own. I can't not say enough incredible things about my experience using a Midwife...and Birthing Center. I think society has such a stigma on midwives? Not sure why...but the way I look at it...Midwives have been around a lot longer than dr's and hospitals...I'm a wimp when it comes to pain...but with the right support anything is possible. If a woman needs to walk...crawl...rock...sing...dance...swim...eat...moan....yell....sleep (as if) ..then she should do whatever it takes to work with the pain and have her baby. Hospitals stick you in a bed strapped with monitors....AIN'T NATURAL I TELL YA. For those wondering....Netflix has a movie on instant called "Business of Being Born" give it a look and then tell me what you think.

Cloth Diapering....(with Lily)

Before ya git ter thinkin that i got me some green in me.....think again. (grins) I did cloth diapers to 1. save $$$ 2. because they were so stinking (pun alert) cute. But I think I spent more $ buying all the cute ones and more time on laundry than anything. I forgot that I would have 4 kids (reid wasn't around yet) and 2 adults to do the washing for. I found them super easy...super convenient and super fun though. I would totally recommend them for those that don't have large families. Then again...maybe laundry is your thing. I HATE IT AND HUBS KNOWS. (poor him) Yes, I've been know to have to restart the laundry multiple times b/c it's been forgotten in the washer. The kids had to start doing their own last year...Momma was tired of it. It made life so much easier...not to mention they need to learn sometime right?

Non Vaccinating...

I really don't have enough pages in the blog to get started on this one. Besides I'm not here to beat ppl down with what you want injected in your children...they are your kids not mine. I don't expect ppl to tell me what to do with my lil punkins. I'm lucky to have a pediatrician that believes in selective vax'n. Spacing those little suckers out....One day hubs and I just started scratching our heads and wondering why does Big Brother push so hard these shots on our kids...unnecessary ones and so many at once. A babies brain does the most growing in the first 2 yrs. Why not let that little one grow a bit before we inject some toxins in them. Again...personal decisions. But google what's in those vaccines and tell me what you think about injecting those in your little 7-8lb baby at birth. We see our chiropractor for wellness check ups and for when we are sicky. In fact yesterday I took Lily and Dude b/c they got some runny noses....I also use homeopathic stuff to treat things too....I load my kids on Vit D and Briar Rose and Lithy Tree. I usually forget the Briar Rose until a runny nose happens...boo

CO SLEEPING...

I was never a fan. I could never understand THOSE parents. I mean this is your bed...that is their bed...the 2 don't mix. Besides I like my space...and I like having my hubs all to myself. THAT IS UNTIL A LILY HAPPENED. She never slept and nursed all the time. Finally at 11 months I threw my hands up and put her in my bed and guess what? SHE SLEPT ALL NIGHT...(ok well all night meaning she would roll over to nurse) but it was the first time in 11 months that I slept peacefully. And so a co sleeper was born. She is still in our bed...and in fact we have the largest bed in history. Hubs built a platform the height of our king size bed...and put a full size mattress on it. So we have a full/king combined. Bring it on co-sleepers! (side note....reid sleeps great in his bed for now...and for now that's where he stays...)

Homeschooling...

Why can't a parent be in control of their child's education? I don't really care for all the material they are teaching the big kids in school. I feel like I have to "reprogram" them at home. I won't get started, but the Civil War wasn't fought over slavery....I am so tired of the 'books' telling my child this. I'm not a fan of Abe Lincoln either...but again this isn't to smack people down but to explain my views on raising MY family. I think growing up I just accepted what they taught me in school as "right" and never realized there were 2 sides to everything. It's a lifestyle choice to choose to educate your children at home. Don't get me wrong....I love me some teachers. I believe there are so many out there that have a gift for teaching students. (Aunt Kerbi) and some that should just stay home.. You can just see it in their eyes that they lost the spark ...part being that they spend so much time being a parent and having to stop lessons to discipline children that the teaching gets rushed. Besides...you know me...ms social butterfly....I can't wait for homeschooling groups.

So now you know....still wanna be my friend?

Step Away From the Scissors

2011-10-10T10:35:00.000-05:00

It's turning into be a fine Monday....(not)

Dude has his first cold. I assume it's a cold. He got a runny nose on Saturday...slight...I thought maybe he was/is teething again. Sunday it got worse....and last night I had a heck of a time getting him to sleep. He just couldn't breathe and snot was everywhere. He screamed like he was in pain and finally after a few hours (yes hours) he passed out in my arms. Those dark circles you see are only accentuating my high cheek bones. ( I keep telling myself that)

Add to that....Lily hasn't gone potty in the night for about 2 yrs now. Awesome huh? That is until last night. I thought since she hasn't pee pee'd at night we wouldn't keep confusing her with diapers and just keep her in her panties. (can you see where I'm going?)

Did I mention she co-sleeps? Yep, hubs comes to bed late last night and goes to cover her up...only to find her soaking....and not just soaking SHE WENT POO TOO...ok she never does that at night. Needless to say I'm up to my ears in laundry. I mean really? Really? It's Murphy's Law huh?!

Sweet boy looks so pitiful this morning...my heart is breaking for him. I pray in a few days this has passed and he's back to his sweet angel self. I'm pushing extra herbs/vitamins on him now too....gotta love some herbs.

As for me? I'm a bit of sleep deprived today.....(been like this since last week) I'm a bit on edge ....(lack of sleep) but I'm loving having the big kids home from school...Thanks Columbus. If only I can keep my cool...I'm on a short straw today

Another thing.....I'm not sure any can relate, but with each baby I have I lose hair after their birth. Usually doesn't happen until the baby is around 3 months old and then lasts for close to a year. It gets so bad that parts are missing and my hair looks terribly out of shape. Then the new growth starts. The most noticle is around my temples and forehead. Lately I get the "ohhhh you cut bangs...why so short?"

Ummmm hello? Who cuts bangs to their hairline?

A few weeks ago I took the scissors to my length. Now mind you I can't cut hair...(nor can I style hair) and I snipped about 3" off the longest layer. It seemed really easy .....I piled my hair on my head and grabbed another layer and cut again. Oops...this time I messed up...I wasn't really paying attention to what layer I was cutting and cut a chunk of one of the long layers. I looked insane. I txt my bff Maribel to help...she told me to quit cutting my hair and how to try to fix it.....I did and it was ok...but a few long pieces were bugging me....

A few days later I was at it again. This time I was trying to even out the layers and grabbed some around my face and cut some layers ...but still long enough to tuck behind my ears.

And then again....a few days later I was at it again. I thought for sure I'd be bald by the time I was finished. (Now I know why small tots like to cut their hair with scissors)

Enter yesterday....I hate my hair. I can't wear it in a pony b/c of all the missing hair at my temples..my "bangs" are horrible..I look like a bigger hot mess than I already am...

So what does any girl do?

She grabs the scissors and makes bangs.

It's been 9 yrs since I've even had any....

But I was smart...I txt my gf Maribel and told her what I was about to do....I think her first reaction was ..."Girl you're crazy...just be careful and don't go to short"

Then I got on youtube. hee hee...That was a huge help

Off I ran to the bathroom with dude friend in tow...and 15 mins later I had some bangs.

Hubs reaction? "You look weird....like you have a mullet" (he hates bangs....did I mention?)

the kids busted out laughing.....

Really was it that bad?

The oldest asked if I was trying to go 90's. (what does that even mean?)

The 2nd just giggles really hard when he looks at me....

Mini Me started crying....(not sure why...maybe she wants some too now?)

Lily didn't notice

Dude Friend just stared at me for a bit and then didn't pay me no mind....

I really wish the kids would quit laughing.....

Here's the phone self photo portrait....hubs said again...stupid picture...and asked why I look mean and angry....(deep sigh) maybe b/c people keep telling me how bad I look...(or maybe I'm just tired.....)

It's Ok Thursday....

2011-10-06T08:56:00.002-05:00

It's ok....

...to have to eat crow after your temper tantrum to your hubs yesterday. you see when baking the Chocolate Ganache Cake (see yesterday's post) the timer went off. Now granted we were both in the kitchen....but only he heard it....and he turned it off. He didn't tell me "hey the timer went off" or take the cake out of the oven...he just turned it off. About 15 mins later it dawned on me my cake should be done...when I looked at the stove the timer was off....I flew to the cake and jerked it out. Of course I went into "OMG WHY DIDNT YOU TELL ME OR TAKE IT OUT" rant. He said the ..usual "why? you were standing there too" ...needless to say

THE CAKE TASTED DIVINE last night w/the inlaws....today I eat crow

...to be baking up a storm for the Baby's Playgroup for tomorrow morning and that your more excited about getting to hang out with other mommies than seeing babies...

...to have a theme for the Playgroup even though all the mommy's will be mad b/c that's not what it's about. I'm still in party planning mode. (Theme...black, white, pink zebra)

...to have made 8 different clothespin drink markers for all our drinks.

...to have found some of these cookies for the theme too to bake.

...to realize that your daughter peeing on the floor is better than her holding it all day like before....you love the smell of your Febreeze scented swiffer mop.

...that your family ate all the Scarecrow Crunch (see Tuesday blog) in one day... you bought enough to double the batch and will refill today.

... that your daughter slept in this shirt....

it's Texas...we protect our own here (thanks Auntie Rachel for the shirt)

...that your sweet baby boy woke up 3 times last night. Those dark circles add color to your pale face.

...that your son has a girlfriend....you're still his # 1 girl. (right?!!!)

What I'm Lovin Wednesday

2011-10-04T16:09:00.003-05:00

1. I'm loving ...Good Food...

Back to the recipe folder I found from 2007....found this beauty from the October 2009 issue of Family Circle for Pasta Fagioli. I remember making this and love love loving it. Made it again last night. I didn't have any capicola on hand so I sub pepperoni instead. (I prefer the ham flavour over the pepperoni...just saying)

So here's the winner winner soupy dinner for you to try....

Pasta Fagioli

1 T. olive oil

3 cloves garlic, finely chopped

1 32 oz. box reduced sodium chicken stock/broth

2 cans (8 oz. each) no-salt-added tomato sauce

1 t. italian seasoning (although, I added more)

1/2 lb. ditalini pasta

4 carrots, peeled and sliced into coins

2 cans (15 oz. each) cannellini beans, drained & rinsed

1/4 lb. capicola (spicy italian ham)

1/2 t. salt

1/2 t. black pepper

1 c. water

Grated parmesan cheese

Heat oil in saucepan over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook 1 minute. Stir in chicken stock, water, tomato sauce and Italian seasoning. Bring to a boil. Add pasta and carrots; simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Stir in beans, capicola, salt and pepper. Heat through.

Serve warm with grated parmesan cheese.

2. I'm loving...Peppermint Mocha Creamer
nothing like starting your morning with a bit of minty goodness

3. I'm loving.... A good book
on page 13 I was already crying....I'm a sucker for books. (in case you were wondering...it's nothing educational or something that will make my mind grow....it's a series from Linda Lael Miller....)

4. I'm loving ....Wednesday dinner w/the Inlaws

tonight I'm baking a Chocolate Ganache Cake ...it looks sinful and smells utterly amazing baking right now. I'm already in heaven and I haven't tasted it yet.

5. I'm loving ....that my very own Princess...loves being a Princess.

Nothing better in life than playing a little make believe. That's why I don't object to Halloween and all the fun that goes with it. It's a day where a child can walk around dressed as anyone they want to be...and it's like one giant party in their yard...and better yet? Candy out the wazoo. Lily is gonna be Tinkerbell ...and Mini Me is going to be a Paper Doll....We are going to make it....got the idea from Family Fun magazine.

An Arm and A Leg

2011-10-04T11:47:00.000-05:00

That's what it cost me for my addiction.

Ohhhh PINTEREST....you made a hole in my wallet today and you don't even care.

I just had had had to make some cute treats for the kids when they got home from school today.....didn't realize until I was loading my buggy at how much this treat was costing me......

That's the thing about Pinterest....we get lured...suckered....roped..enchanted....bewitched...charmed...into all the photos and recipes...and decorating ideas.....and we just have to create the masterpieces ourselves.

with that being said...

I'd do it again....(evil laughter)

because this stuff rocks....if you love a little sweet....and you love a little salty....and you love being dangerous and mixing the two together....then by all means git'ya some. (or you could just come over and I'll share mine...maybe)

Scarecrow Crunch

(makes 15 cups)

4 cups crunchy oatmeal cereal squares

4 cups tiny twisted pretzels

1 (24 oz) bag autumn mix honey candy

2 cups Reese's pieces

16 oz caramel popcorn w/nuts

1 bag (7.2 oz) of chocolate graham baked snacks (Goldfish)

Miscellany Lundi....My Dude Friend

2011-10-03T08:25:00.002-05:00

un. 8 Months

saturday marked 8 months for little man. how can that be possible?

it seems like yesterday he was in Mon ventre (my belly) i can still remember the pure exhaustion of being pregnant...the unknowns of what he looked like and how his little personality would be. i am so blessed. he is better than I dreamed and more...

I've said many many times...God knew I needed him after Lily.

He is laid back and sleeps (ha)
Happy 8 months mon petit bébé.

deux. speaking of dude
we had our first boo boo this weekend. i do my best to watch everything he gets into. he is being so exploitative lately and i am all for it. he's been so connected to my hip it's nice to know he can be out of my line of vision and not need to be held. he's trying to hard to walk...he took a step from the table to the couch this weekend....it's only a matter of time....doesn't seem possible. but....sunday he wandered into the kitchen...things are still baby proofed from lily...or so i thought. one cabinet was left unlocked (it's only my pots and pans) little did mommy know there were pans stacked on the shelf and dude pulled them down on him....it probably would have been fine except for the fact that there was an iron sandwich press inside. it got him smack on the eyebrow bone. thankfully i got a booboo gel ice pack on him and it looks terrific today. poor sweetie pie though. he was such a trooper. breaks my heart when my babies get hurt. first of many i know in the years to come of being a kid...

trois. P
oh the dreaded potty training. man i thought i knew it all. lily again isn't like the rest though. why am i surprised? i guess i thought she couldn't surprise me anymore. but the girl just won't go. i mean like at all now. she went 24 hrs and only went once...ONCE. i was freaking out.....i was ready to throw in the towel. i mean there are kids that have accidents...and ones afraid of potty's and well name something else....BUT HOLDING IT? i hate putting the diapers back on her but shesh. the next day she only pee'd twice. i was starting to panic that her kidneys would get injured. i called her pedi and they said to keep pushing the fluids and encourage warm baths. i'm at my wits end. i know she is ready....the girl knows what she is doing....she's smart as a whip and gets what time it is (figure of speech) i thought for sure after a few days of doing that she would get more used to going on the potty, but she's not....it's getting worse. this was suppose to be a piece of cake like the first 3. prayers needed our way please

quatre. pinterest
who ~~isn't like totally obsessed~~ isn't in love with this site? i have been getting all my meals from there....i tell hubs i now have an excuse now to be on it. come over and follow me

cinq. doggy love

i know many of you know i'm not much of an animal lover. no haters....i do ppl better than pets. but that doesn't mean i don't love when my babies love on MoMo. Mo's a great family pet...he's terrific to the small ones that rip fur when they try to ride. he's had some great photos through the years with Miss Wild Child....

six. Fall Y'all

yep, yesterday it was official in my house. i got to decorate. the lil pumpkin boy is out and finally Lily wasn't afraid of him....reid tried to attack him so i think we're off to a great start. he's the greeter when you walk in the door.

sept. homeschooling
yep, i'm going to start preschool homeschooling for miss thang this month. i am heading to Mardel for some lessons and little stuff for her to do. hubs sends me daily info and now i just need to sit down and lesson plan for her. most families do latin lessons...but i'm interested in french. hubs knows a few words and oldest child is on his 2nd yr of french in hs. what better time to learn a foreign language than when your little brain is young and impressionable, right?....

Sticky Sweet

2011-09-30T00:50:00.001-05:00

When life gives you Lemons....

make a Coconut-Lemon Loaf

My man ♥'s coconut things.... I ♥ my man and try to do nice things to please him.

I'm a ripper of recipes. I get a magazine and 'rip' the recipe from it...then I shove it into a folder or binder. I just stumbled upon a folder I forgot about and discovered sweet goodness (think back to the cupcakes from Lily's party) recipes dating back to 07.

This recipe is from Family Fun...I'm sure from 07 too....

What I love about this recipe was you can mix everything by hand. Don't get me wrong...I love love love my stand mixers, but there is something about mixing by hand (makes me feel like I'm Laura Ingalls on the prairie....)

I doubled the glaze for this recipe...I'm a sucker for glazes...you can never have too much sweetness. I also didn't have lemon extract on hand, but did have coconut extract (I keep it on hand b/c again...I ♥ my man) USING THE COCONUT EXTRACT WAS A MUST I THINK...so alter it...

1 cup sugar
5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
3 tablespoons canola or vegetable oil
1 1/2 tablespoons finely grated lemon zest
1 teaspoon lemon extract (or coconut extract like me)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup milk

2 large eggs
3/4 cup buttermilk
2 1/2 cups flour
2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup (2 ounces) sweetened flaked coconut
Coconut-Lemon Glaze (optional)

Instructions

Line a 9- by 5-inch loaf pan with waxed or parchment paper (or grease and flour it), then set it aside. Heat the oven to 350º.
In a large bowl, whisk together the sugar, melted butter, oil, lemon zest, lemon extract, vanilla extract, and milk.
In a small bowl, whisk the eggs and the buttermilk until evenly blended. Set the bowl aside.
In a medium-size bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder, and salt. With a wooden spoon, stir about a third of the flour mixture into the sugar mixture, then alternately add half of the remaining egg mixture and half of the flour mixture, stirring after each addition just enough to blend. Stir in the coconut.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spoon. Bake on the center oven rack until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean, about 45 to 50 minutes.
Remove the pan from the oven and put it on a cooling rack for about 15 minutes, then remove the loaf and place it on the rack to finish cooling. When the loaf is completely cooled, in about two hours, apply the Coconut-Lemon Glaze, if using. Makes 10 servings. *note: I didn't wait 2 hrs...I waited about 10 mins

It's Ok...Thursday

2011-09-29T14:42:00.001-05:00

It's ok.....

...to have to say the words "Lily quit trying to ride your little brother...he's not a horse" on a daily basis

...to pretend like you know all the capitals of the states when reviewing them with your 5th grader....she'll never know. (no judging)

...to tell your husband you HAVE to be looking at Pinterest all the time...where does he think all the awesome meals have been coming from lately? (hello...made the Crispy Southwest Chicken Wraps last night w/some minor additions and it was FAN TAS TIC)

...to be EXCITED about Saturday being October 1st. You can officially decorate for Fall (says hubs) and Dude Friend turns 8 months.

...to realize that even though you have 5 kids you still don't know everything about Potty Training or Parenting for that matter

...be up all night thinking about the fact that you have a teenager that dates.....until then I just might not sleep until I'm 80.

...to stand outside and point fingers at the cars speeding. I'm tired of having to 'remind' adults how to drive in the mornings while little kids are riding their bikes to school. I'm ok with being 'that crazy lady'.

...to be excited that Pop Up Video is coming back after 9 yrs. I love that show.

...to plan a play date at your house so you can whip up some Caramel Macchiato cream for the coffee. Cravings should be shared.

...to plan a birthday party 4+ months away for your baby. He's gonna be 1 after all.

...to secretly be tired of the dog (granted it's no secret) I'm sick of fur sticking to everything and finding it my baby's mouth. As much as I swiffer, vacuum, wipe, clean, and get on my hands and knees to get all the baseboards...I CAN'T GET IT ALL AND IT BUGS ME. I won't tell you the places I have found the dog hair.

...to see a princess potty chair in my living room.

to call your mom and tell her to call you not txt you to talk. (shouldn't it be the other way around?)

Potty Training....With a Lily

2011-09-28T08:30:00.001-05:00

First off...I'm grateful for no carpet....

Second...Thank goodness couches can be cleaned...

I swear I thought she would be the first of 5 to potty train. She's so different you know? (just agree)

The first kids were a breeze....no problems...we started using the potty....and every time I asked them (which was like every 40 mins in the beginning stages) they got on the potty and went.

Before leaving...boom they went....out running errands (if goodness be they needed to go "gross") they went. No issues. IN fact they LOVED wearing new big boy/girl panties.

DA DA DOMMMMM

Enter in Lily.

She is always wanting to do what you are doing...mimics every single thing I tell ya.

Great I thought...we've got a winner....

I guess I forgot who I was talking about.

Nothing with Lily has been easy. You would think this was my first Rodeo at being a parent with this one. She has rewritten every book out there. I think God blessed me with her at the age I am now, b/c no telling what kind of parent I would have been to her when I was the age I was with the first 3.

I have learned from experience....to introduce it and see how things fly.

I first tried the potty around age 2 to Lily (not ready)

I tried all the tricks this past year of Potty Charts with stickers...rewards....special potty seats...name it I tried it....nope....

and so the introducing kept happening...after a while I gave up, but would occasionally ask her.

Her response was always the same "NOPE I looooooove my diapers...I'm happy"

Ok ...that's a sign she AIN'T ready.

Here we were embarking on her 3rd birthday and it's to the point now where she is just capital L

LAZY.

Lily is one of those that if you don't poke and prod she won't do it....she sets her own pace. I've told her father...she doesn't run us we run her and we need to force certain issues or she NEVER will do things.

I think of Lily as a cat...You know how You don't own a cat they own you? (giggles)

Lily's best bud next door is 3 weeks older (the family I mention often...we had our #4 and #5 babies at same time) Well Ollie is now wearing big boy pants so we made a show of how cool it was....she was happy for him.

I let her birthday come and go w/o forcing it...

But

the day after I was starting to force the issue...

Yesterday was a fun day (chokes)

You know the first week of potty training (or so I've only read about) how your basically asking the child at different intervals to go potty. The over excitement when 'things' actually happen.

So it looks like we'll be staying home for a few weeks wearing nothing but panties and t-shirts until we get this down.

I mopped the floor about 4 times...and she hit the potty 3 times.

The first time she screamed with fear....I screamed with joy. Hubs came to find us jumping up and down...(Lily looking like she saw a ghost....me thinking 'omg I can finally use her diaper money for a pedi for myself)

I'm grateful that with all the accidents yesterday she didn't give up and ask for a diaper.

I've got a station set up downstairs w/a stack of towels....fresh panties and stash of Salt Water Taffy (don't judge...whatever works in my new Lily Book)

SO that is where you will find me if you need me....

Maybe I should make a potty cookie for a Congrats You're Using the Potty Like a Big Girl theme? I could get really creative with the decorations on it huh (grins)

I Can't Stop Thinking About It

2011-09-27T08:30:00.003-05:00

Before I get to what "I can't stop thinking about...."

I had to post a few photos of the cookies I baked for Lily's 'actual' day yesterday.

I had so much fun decorating these. I can't say enough about the frosting I'm using.

It's the recipe I used when I decorated my first cookie....I used it for a few months and ppl kept saying how royal icing was the way to go and I switched. I tried about 3 recipes and was never happy with one. I went back to my favorite Butter Cream recipe for the caterpillar cookies and BAMMMMMMMMMMMMM. I don't care what ppl say about royal icing....I ♥♥♥♥♥ my old recipe and it totally makes the cookies. The colors stay so much more vibrant...not to mention the flavor is out of this world.

For the cookie recipe I always use and the Butter Cream one...click here

Lily had a great day...it started off with a cookie for breakfast (hello it's her birthday) and a few presents from mommy and daddy.

Then after Mr Reid went down for a nap Lily and I played 'baking'.

Her sweet friend Macy gave her an awesome little wooden cupcake set and she can't stop pretending to be mommy.

Then it was Tinkerbell Fairy time. Mommy and Daddy bought her the Ro fairy and her best friend next door (Ollie) bought her Tink her birthday.

Lily is obsessed with all things Tinkerbell and Hello Kitty lately. A quick addiction...(aren't they all?)

After Reid's nap we headed to Tar-jay for an Icee....(ok and some shopping for mom) and then off to Chick-fil-A for some birthday nuggets.

You can't complete the afternoon w/o a walk in the new wagon.

(Lily looks beaten down...but it's only b/c Mommy was taking too long to get her phone out for a photo)

Every time we went under a Weeping Willow, Lily would say we were in the jungle....We went through many jungles finding wild animals. (I kept finding just 2...wonder who they were?)

(it's not a blog post w/o our Dude)

on to the topic of this post.....what I can't stop thinking about "DINNER Last NIGHT"

I made Buffalo Chicken Pizza...thanks to Pinterest. (♥)

The recipe is quite simple.

For starters....I only use Naan bread to make my pizzas. I can't say enough about how they cook up.

I had to quadruple this recipe...but the basics were

buffalo sauce

shredded chicken

1 tb butter

1/4 cup franks hot sauce

1/2 tsp brown sugar

1 tsp apple cider vinegar

Melt butter in pan...then stir in sauce, sugar, vinegar and heat through...add your shredded chicken

white sauce

1 tb greek plain yogurt

1 tb mayo

salt and garlic powder

stir all together and set aside

preheat oven to 400.

spread a layer of the white sauce on the naan bread

then top with buffalo chicken mixture

sprinkle with mozzerella cheese and chopped red onion

bake about 10-12 mins

EAT!!

Each bite I kept saying and hearing "OHHH MAN THIS IS GOOD...OHHHH MAN THIS IS GOOD"

The children have begged for this again next week....I have to agree...it's a good one

After dinner the kids got to dig into the Cupcake Cookies...The night before when they saw me decorating them....one of the cookies had a bit more sprinkles than the others. Each of the kids started fighting over who got that one...Child #2 decided to pick up the cookie and lick it to claim it. Silence fell over the room.....Mommy was not amused. (but I have to admit it was a brilliant maneuver)

Needless to say child #2 got that cookie.

Here is a shot of Birthday Girl blowing a candle out on her Cupcake Cookie. (Notice Mini Me's face in the background...it looks like she's trying to mimic Lily...haha)

I think the whole day was fantastic....I still can't believe my baby is already 3.

Happy Birthday Lillian Brenna...Party Time

2011-09-26T08:27:00.001-05:00

(hours old)

Friday September 26th, 2008 1:11 pm sweet angel baby enter our lives and changed them for the better. I can honestly say she has kept us on our toes...and I wouldn't trade her for all the calm babies in the world...(just wouldn't mind them rubbing off on her)

Hard to believe she is 3 yrs old today. Where has time gone?

(her birth) I started having contractions at 8pm the night before and ignored them. (isn't that what we all do?) around 4am my water broke...no ignoring that. I will never forget the calmness of hubs....I woke him to tell him...his reaction? "Get a towel...shove it between your legs and get back to bed....the kids will be up soon" A man of sweet sweet words.

I labored at home until I was having a difficult time talking...got to the birthing center around 11:45...had her at 1:11 and back home a few hrs later just in time for the kids to come home from school to see their sweet new sister.

Here they are holding her when they got home....

This years birthday party theme was The Very Hungry Caterpillar...(thanks to Pottery Barn for the idea) and we had a small get together at the house.

Here's birthday girl riding her car toting her presents. She's a hot mess like her mother. Her hair is crazy. The child refuses to have you style it.

I made a template for all of the cookies (easier to make then buy it)

I made tissue paper balls for a caterpillar archway

Caterpillar drink markers

Food was based after the book....apples, cheese, pizza (well there should have been pizza in the book), lil smokies, strawberries...etc.

Lily enjoying her "caterpillar" fruit stick.

The cupcakes had a rainbow cream cheese frosting that was sinful (recipes for cupcakes and frosting below)

My Inlaws saved their present for after the party... She only wanted Sissy to ride in it....

Then Reid had a turn. He was so excited and talking up a storm....(notice Lily's expression..she's complaining "get him out get him out")

We ended up taking her and dude for a walk later that night...they had the best time and probably would have strolled for hours if daddy and I weren't worn out. I can't wait for fall.

Cupcakes and Cream Cheese Frosting

(note: I do so much blog stalking that I wish I could remember where I found the frosting recipe from and give credit where credit is due)

I tore this cupcake recipe out in the March 2007 Southern Living magazine and finally got around to baking them. It's my new favorite recipe. I should have baked these sooner...better late than never.

Ingredients

1 (18.25-oz.) package white cake mix with pudding
1 1/4 cups buttermilk
1/4 cup butter, melted
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
Vegetable cooking spray

Preparation

1. Beat first 6 ingredients at low speed with an electric mixer just until dry ingredients are moistened. Increase speed to medium, and beat 2 minutes or until batter is smooth, stopping to scrape bowl as needed.
2. Place paper baking cups in muffin pans, and coat with cooking spray; spoon batter evenly into baking cups, filling each two-thirds full.
3. Bake at 350° for 25 minutes or until a wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool in pans on wire racks 10 minutes; remove cupcakes from pans to wire racks, and cool 1 hour or until completely cool.

Note: We call for using a mixer, but you can stir these together by hand with great results. Because the mixer adds more air to the batter, you'll end up with 17 cakes rather than 24 when you stir them by hand. For testing purposes only, we used Pillsbury Moist Supreme Classic White Cake Mix. (this is true)

Vanilla Cream Cheese Frosting

1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, room temp
8 oz cream cheese, room temp
1 tsp vanilla extract
4 cups powdered sugar
1-4 tbs heavy cream

Directions:
Cream butter and then add cream cheese and blend until combined.
Add vanilla and powdered sugar on low until combined.
Increase to med and beat until fluffy
Slowly add cream a little at a time until desired consistency is met
Beat until fluffy (about 1 min)

I doubled the recipe. I would probably triple it if I had 24 cupcakes. Notice I used a lot of icing...and my hips thank me...it was well worth it.

Happy birthday Lillian
(and to everyone else out there that has a birthday today)

In a Panic..Motherhood at it's Finest

2011-09-23T09:06:00.000-05:00

As a mother (parent) we worry over our kids. At least I do.

No one wants to see their child sick or hurt. The occasional skinned knee isn't fun either no matter how small they are.

I am a mom who knows the sadness of a hurt child. I never talk about it here (to protect child's privacy) but 1 of my 5 was born with some medical issues. The issues were corrected but they will have to do daily "routine's" for the rest of their life to keep things in working order. You would never tell by looking at the child...but they are there (inside)

I know the fears of a mother in the waiting room outside surgery. (the child had 4 in the first 20 months of life)

I know the anxiety of watching your child lay in a bed hurting and healing and so badly would trade places with that child.

I know of the hours spend going from dr visit after dr visit year after year making sure all is well..putting your full trust that they know what they are talking about.

I know the sadness of never knowing what the future holds, but so blessed how far technology has come.

I know that a mommy sometimes has to step back to let the child discover and do things on their own.....but it doesn't make me not want them to hurt any less.

******************************************************************

(enter in Lily)

Yesterday Lily was playing just fine...happy giggling singing ol self.

I had put Reid down for a nap and was getting lunch ready. Lily came to me and was moaning...holding her stomach and hopping up and down telling me to scratch her belly. (odd I thought)

But I complied. Her belly though looked a little distended....(panic)

She kept moaning and crying and telling me to hold her...she even asked for her "boo boo" (hello she weaned 6 months ago...no she didn't want it...but knew she felt bad)

I held her in a cradle hold and was rocking her back and forth.

This is where "Panic Mom" happens. You know where you start thinking of all the reasons your child is acting like this....did she eat something...drink something....omg omg omg (insert more freaking out) I'm checking for fever...none....eyes look good...skin looks good....I grab my phone and google appendicitis thinking hers was about to blow at any minute.

I'm pushing on her belly asking if it hurts....She just keeps looking at me like I'm crazy.

Finally I lay her on the ground on her belly laying on her knees (you know the booty in the air position ) I lay next to her and we just stare at each other. I'm wiping her tears...wishing I knew what was wrong.

Then it happens.

She was constipated. Ok all that freaking out...for a poo. UGH.....gotta love motherhood.

But I realized in that moment how we as mommy's would do anything for our babies to not see them in pain. (and also how we need to settle and quit freaking out too)

As we are laying there Lily whispers.....

Lily: "I'm gonna tell you a story...once upon a time... far far away lived a beautiful Princess named Mommy. Mommy walked on double rainbows (she saw her first one outside last Sunday and now thinks they are all double) and slid down the other side to the pot of gold. The End"

Me: " ohhhh that was beautiful."

Lily: "Mommy, did you know I had a blue snake crawl in my nose (points to nostril) and a green one came out my toes?"

Me: "ummm (grins) ...No I didn't....wow can I see?"

and so the conversation with my girl continues...

Point is..my little girl was back to her normal self.....but in the one split second I was in Mommy Panic all for a poo.....

Just another day in the life of a Hot Mess Mother.

Happy Friday...my kitchens a mess and my dishes are calling...I made the kids chocolate chip pancakes before school this morning (I may or may not have had one...or 2)

Watch Your Mouth

2011-09-22T10:42:00.002-05:00

I'm always telling the kids to watch what they say and do around the babies. That the small kids watch everything they do and want to be just like them....I'm thinking small stuff right now you know...like

no climbing on the counters to get something..

no sitting on top of the counters...get a chair..

no jumping on the furniture...

no putting your hands on the wall...(which the kids don't understand...but I try to remind them even clean hands can leave a mark...deep sigh)

the list could really go on.

That list also applies to our language. There are certain words in the home that are not allowed...some being the obvious. But another one is SHUT UP. Not allowed. There are kinder ways of asking for someone to be quiet. The kids (meaning the oldest) tells the dog to Shut up often...and he's met with an evil eye. The other day he 'accidentally ' yelled for the dog to shut up....what did I then immediately hear from Lily? Yep, she's yelling at Moses to Shut up. I was pretty upset. Again I reminded the big kids they are little adults to Lily and she will watch and say what they do to be like them.

Enter in MOM (points to self)

I think I talk to myself a lot. No, I'm not crazy...just thinking out loud. Give me a break...I've got 5 kids and a house to run and I'm constantly making lists to keep on top of things (note to self...the laundry is calling you)

Scene with me and hubs

me: mumble mumble mumble

hubs: "what honey"

me: "nothing...I'm talking to myself"

hubs: "well what did you tell yourself?"

(now I can either tell him what is going on inside my brain...which usually scares him...or say never mind"

me: "Never mind"

hubs: "Well then don't get mad when I ignore you when you mumble b/c I can never tell if you are going crazy again or telling me something"

(I'm not going crazy...not yet)

I talk to Reid...often. The kids always ask why I do this since he can't talk back and I explain...it's how one learns to communicate. It's like if we went into a foreign country and didn't speak the language...the only way to learn is to listen and try to interact.

I forget that Lily hears me chatting with Dude from time to time...

In our house we use the correct name for body parts....If Lily asks...then of course I tell her. Her body hadn't been much of an issue until Reid was born. They take baths together and she still can't understand why he has different parts than her.

I was changing Dude's diaper and noticed his diaper had wood chips in it (probably from the playground) and so I'm talking to him saying something like "ohhh crazy boy...there's wood chips in your diaper.....that's so funny....here let me check and make sure none got on your penis (ohhhh gasp I said the word) b/c that would hurt if one poked you"

Lily starts shouting..."Penis Penis....I want a Penis...Penis Penis...I want a Penis" (deep sigh)

Yep...now I started it....Lily wants what she can't have.....(grins)

I choose to ignore her b/c drawing attention only makes little toddlers want to keep saying it.

I do notice how the big kids point at me and remind me in their fake mom voice...."mom be careful what you say...she repeats everything"

Thanks kids....as if I need reminding.

The View From A Child's Eyes

2011-09-21T09:00:00.001-05:00

Have you ever just sat and stared at your babies? I do this often...I'll sit on the floor with them to play and find myself just being absorbed in watching their every move.

Lily....

she is so inventive in her imaginary play. Some of the things she comes up with have me and B scratching our heads in wonder. I always say that she gets it b/c she's my child (we all know it's hubs with the brains in the family)

The other day she spread a blanket on the hard floor and pretended it was a boat. She wanted me and dude to get in the boat with her b/c the sharks were coming. Of course dude can't comply so he went "swimming for food" she said. Occasionally she would jump into the 'water' to cool off b/c the heat was so bad and our skins were burning....I MEAN HELLO...WHERE DOES SHE GET THIS STUFF? She swam off and found another blanket that became our tent to sleep in at night. I tell you...come to our house and play you will never be bored. NO seriously come to my house...I could use some helping organizing...extra hands would be nice...I'll bake you some cookies and we can chat too (wiggles eyebrows)

This morning while watching the big kids walk to the bus stop she hollered...."hey I need a closer look....where are my binoculars?" and grabbed her hands and made pretend ones to look out.

(look at dude's face in the background)

Watching Little Dude is just as fun as watching his big sis. His little 7.5 month old mind is so in that..."I've got to touch and eat and swat at everything in my line of vision". How else can they learn about their world.

This morning I watched him crawl to the toy bucket....stand up and proceed to pull everything out (just like he sees big sis doing) to find the right toy. He plops down and passes it from hand to hand staring at it like it's the first time he's ever seen it. Gives it a slobber....looks at it again...passes it to his other hand...turns it over....looks at it and eats it again. Tosses it down and goes back for more toys.

He now will wander from my sight to the next room to cruise around the furniture. I'll sneak in there and see him walking the furniture looking for anything to touch. I'll say in my "ah ha I caught you you little stinker" tone "what are you doooooooooooing little boy" and see him squeal with laughter (such a sweet sound) and take off crawling at the speed of light.

I wish we could put a little voice box on his throat (you know like the dog in the Disney move Up) to see what's going on inside that sweet mind of his.

I guess one day my house will be cleaner...and I might even be organized...but right now I'm a hot mess and so is my house.... but I'm not missing a minute of my 5 kids and all their play and learning...b/c in watching them I am learning a thing or two too....to slow and enjoy the now...and to stop and look at things through the eyes of a child.

Under Attack

2011-09-19T09:29:00.001-05:00

We're getting a new roof this morning...A great start to a Monday...(granted we were already up for school)

Nothing like a knock knock knock knock knock on the door before 7 to signal WE'RE HERE.

I tried to get a photo of all the guys on the roof ripping it off, but was afraid to cross the street and get hit with something.

The baby's room is upstairs and I can hear the pounding on the monitor as if it is in the room with him (no worries ...he's at my feet playing) ...my question is ...where do you put the child to nap during the day? I've set up the pack n play with a loud floor fan to block out noise. (crossing fingers it works)

To make matters good and bad.......they are ripping up the decking on the roof (bad) which is totally loud.... to lay the new radiant barrier (totally awesomely good) ...can you say even louder than ripping shingles off? I'm just glad it is getting done. That hail storm smacked the fence/gate/gutters/roof/and shutters and I'm happy to finally have them fixed. Bring on the radiant barrier to lower our bills (hopefully) Looking forward to next summers energy bill.

In the meantime I am getting ready for Lily's 3rd birthday party this weekend. I can't believe my baby is going to be 3 soon. (a week from today) I am trying to make as much of the stuff as I can to save on $. I wanted to bake some caterpillar and fruit cookies, but don't have any cutters. I had seen women make templates and cut out the dough with this method. I printed pictures of a caterpillar, butterfly, and strawberry to give it a test run.

First I found a photo on the web I liked....printed it on regular paper. Next I found some sturdy material around the house (didn't want to waster my poster board....that's for kid projects) so I used some note cards.

I rolled out my dough and traced it with a knife. That didn't work out to well....so I used a toothpick.

I think they turned out pretty good.

The possibilities are endless now. Probably best if you are cutting out tons of cookies to buy the cutter. Using a template can be time consuming.....but great if you need something quick.

It's Ok Thursday....

2011-09-15T11:18:00.000-05:00

It's ok.....

...that you forgot to pull the pork loin from the freezer yesterday for tonight's dinner with the InLaws....dinner will just be late? (maybe I should have a plan B)

...that you want to be selfish and not show or share your Birchbox that came in the mail on Tuesday to your girlfriend's or family...(Thanks to winning Neely's Giveaway of a year free Birchbox...hello girly goodness)

...that you are bone tired and the dog is getting on your nerves. or that he has forgotten that for the last 5 yrs he isn't allowed upstairs and every night you find him roaming the halls up there.

...that some of the flags on the sailboats you baked for your MIL's party are missing. They smell yummy anyways.

...it's ok that your son's txt messages totaled 8400 last month...they're unlimited. (ok not entirely true about it being ok...I'm implementing more chores...obviously he's got more time on his hands than should be allowed)

...that you hid a Dr Pepper in the fridge from the family...you deserve it

...that you rewound Letters to Juliet 4 times just to see the part where Sophie is on the balcony and thinks that Charlie is there with his gf when it's really his cousin and she says "is that even legal?"....so funny and romantic movie. You ♥ them

...that the baby has started waking up twice a night again...even though you're tired he's the sweetest thing in the world at 2am

...to have made an entire pot of coffee yesterday only to forget you brewed it . your life is busy

...to invent a trip to Tarjay b/c they have a Starbucks inside so you can get a Pumpkin Latte and walk around your favorite store even though you don't need anything, but always leave with a cart full

...it's ok to have a run on sentence and have many of your bloggy friends read this...you said Pumpkin Latte and all is forgiven

...to pinch your husband's nose when he's snoring to wake him up....it's only fair you're awake together.

...think bad thoughts about the check out lady at the store. I don't really care about all her 3 ex husbands and who she's dating now...can't she see I've got ice cream melting?

...to have ordered a 7" spider web cookie cutter because you are excited about October.

...it's ok to hold your baby all day long...IT DOESN'T SPOIL THEM. (tried and tested mother approved)

Wordless Wednesday: Me in the Raw

2011-09-14T08:15:00.001-05:00

Ha Ha as if I could go wordless. I mean who do you think you are reading? (grins)

Here is a photo of me and little man waiting at beauty salon. No make up and I think it's been 2 days since my hair was washed. Me in the Raw....

After Mini Me's and my 'monday after school snack bonding moment' we had a wild crazy whim to get her haircut. We are crazy because over a year ago we decided to grow it long long....now we decided to cut about 3" and put some long layers. She was jumping up and down with excitement.....I mean it's only hair after all right?

I like this photo of me and my man.....His chubby cheeks make me want to squeeze him forever

It's Sinful..

2011-09-13T08:19:00.003-05:00

I've had a few friends...(Ginni that's you I'm talking to) that have never heard of Nutella. Then there are the millions that know of it's creamy sinful goodness. *for those that don't know...run to the peanut butter aisle and shove your head in a jar

I have made a handful of desserts (this one found in my recipe tab...worth the effort...and make a day in advance) and we eat Nutella on just about anything we can find. During the spring I like to smear some on strawberries. Again Sinful. I could really go on and on if you like...

Yesterday while I was supposed to be cleaning, or doing laundry, or getting the chili in the crockpot, but instead I was ~~being forced to look at~~ looking at Pinterest. (evil site) I ran across this recipe for Nutella Cupcakes. I glanced at the clock and had just enough time to bake them and have them ready for when the kids got home.

It was a great moment to watch the kids faces when I told them what their treat was. My oldest nearly dropped to his knees.

Mini Me and I had a bonding moment....she poured the milk and I got the napkins. Then we sat at the table eating our treat while I listened about her day. (that girl can talk more than me and that's saying a lot) She told me that was the greatest part about her Monday...sitting with me visiting.

I ended up making a second batch after the little babes went to bed....I needed extras for their lunches....nothing like another great surprise in your sack.

Self-frosting Nutella Cupcakes

1/4 cup butter, at room temperature
1/4 cup canola or mild vegetable oil
3/4 cup sugar
3 large eggs
1 tsp. vanilla
1 3/4 cup all purpose flour
2 tsp. baking powder
1/4 tsp. salt
1/4-1/2 cup Nutella, at room temperature

Preheat the oven to 325F.

In a medium bowl, beat the butter, oil and sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy. Add the eggs and vanilla and beat until smooth.

In a small bowl, stir together the flour, baking powder and salt; add to the butter mixture and beat on low speed just until combined. The batter will be thick. It needs to be in order to swirl in the Nutella!

Divide the batter between 12 paper-lined muffin cups. Drop a spoonful of Nutella on top of each, and swirl through the batter with the tip of a bamboo skewer, knife or other pointy object.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until springy to the touch.
*Note: I only baked mine for 20 mins...and I increased the oil to 1/3 cup. I also added a little batter to the bottom...tiny amount of nutella...swirled it and then more batter and more nutella and swirl....(yep never can have too much) They also said this makes about 12 cupcakes...I baked these twice and only got 9....go figure)

Miscellany Monday...3rd Birthday Sneak Peek

2011-09-12T09:45:00.002-05:00

one. Football

I don't think words are really necessary are they? It's my favorite past time with hubs. It means the start of my favorite season. It means happiness and goodness for months to come. During football season I love watching hubs with his fantasy football. He's never one to use the phone that much...but during game day he's chatting up with the boys about their teams. I enjoy listening to all the crazy names of the teams in his leagues. The stuff those boys come up with. (covers eyes)Good Times

two. Mommy's Little Helper

Lily wants to help with Reid any chance she can get. This morning it was to help with his "Ber-ref-is" (love when she says that word) breakfast. Now if only I can get her to change diapers.

three. Invite Sneak Peek

Lily's Hungry Caterpillar 3rd Birthday

I say sneak peek, but it's only b/c I only have a few decorations made. I got this idea from PB catalog and ran with it. How cute a theme for her age huh? The invitations are glass jam jars and inside there is a caterpillar with a half eaten leaf. Another leaf has the party info on it. Each jar has an initial on the top specialized for each child. So far I have 4 11" caterpillars made. I've also cut all the circles for the massive caterpillar for the wall. (I adore my Cricut) Each circle is 11" and there are 7 circles. I've still got to make the birthday sign and print all the 'food' cards and small toppers for the cupcakes. I figure I'll be making caterpillar cookies for their goody take home treat. Stay tuned....

four. Date Night

Oldest child had his 'first' date this weekend. I was a nervous wreck making sure I had prepared him enough about being a gentleman. He assured me I needed to settle that he had it under controlled. He looked so handsome.....I met 'the girl' and her mother and really liked them both. Awwww. At first I was wondering if my 'no one is good enough for my baby' claws would come out...but I really ♥ seeing my boy grow up. He still confides in me so that makes me feel terrific. I'm treading in unknown territory now....deep breath

five. Fall is in ~~almost~~ the air

Well though it maybe not 'technically' be fall I am sure loving September. Football (already mentioned), festivals, pumpkins, candy corn, fall scents, baking galore in my kitchen (as if I'm not already) and outdoor cool weather fun. I ♥ you fall. I'm thinking a pumpkin roll dessert is on the horizon...and maybe a craft or too. Tonight I'm making my yummy Play Off Chili in honor of Monday Night football.

Horse Mouth

2011-09-09T08:05:00.000-05:00

(More from what's inside Laura's head)

I love love love to have my feet rubbed. Hubs knows this...the kids know this....the dog probably knows this....and I try to contain my enjoyment when I actually get a pedicure. (which is going on about 7+ months now)

After the kids go to bed hubs and I will be on the couch and I'll slowly...ever so slowly inch my legs his direction....then ever so slowly put one of my feet on his hip...then slowly make it to his lap.

He has 2 options at this point....A. He can rub B. He can ignore the tired, beaten down, sad looking feet of the mother of his children. He usually goes for option A. He will say, "In a minute." After a minute I will start to wiggle my foot on his lap....which reminds him...."Hey sir, please remember me"

The problem is...sometimes he doesn't rub the right spot...or rubs the same spot over and over ...or rubs too hard.

This is where I have some options.....A. I can tell him how I like it so it feels better....or B. Sit and bear it....I mean after all I am getting a free foot rub (unless it's the kids then I don't hold back)

I usually go for option B....I sit quietly and just be happy I'm getting a rub....until last night.

I thought to myself (which is never a good thing)

"You know if he would just rub up and over a few inches this would be heaven. Should I say something? Yes, Yes, I should definitely say something....No, wait....I mean after all he's being sweet by rubbing in the first place....try to wiggle your foot over and he'll get a better grip and then it will be in the spot. Ok, that didn't work.....Ok just sweetly say "hey honey will you rub in circles just a bit over from where your hand is" and maybe you won't get the ol "Don't look a gift horse in the mouth" answer....I mean after all someone is doing you a nice favor...LIKE EVERY SINGLE NIGHT...BUT I go for it....

"Hey honey, that feels great, but will you rub in little circles just a few inches up from where your hand is"

He actually does and doesn't even give me 'the look' ....

only thing...it's the wrong spot.

So option A. grin and bear it and say thanks...or B. give more direction

I'm on a roll....I mean the first football game of the season is on...he's distracted so I go with B

"Hey honey....just a little more up"

His response...."Don't look a gift horse in the mouth"

Next time I'm sticking with the first option of KEEP YOUR MOUTH SHUT.

Bless This Food That I'm About To Inhale...

2011-09-08T08:00:00.000-05:00

Source: simplydesigning.blogspot.com via Miriam on Pinterest

Over the weekend I looked in my freezer and realized I had a ton of frozen stuff and needed to use it. (or lose it)

Pork Loin...hmmmm what to do?

Pull out the slow cooker and cook that bad boy....(I ♥ my crock) and make....

Shredded Pork Tacos (inspiration came from my love of Tin Star's pork tacos)

I had about a 3.5 lb pork loin here's what I did to her....

Take a 28oz (or bigger???) can of tomato sauce and stir in: 2 tbs of chili powder, 2 tbs cumin, 2 tbs brown sugar, 1 tsp salt, handful of shakes of cayenne pepper, 3 tsp minced garlic. Blend well.

Dump this over your pork and either cook on low all day (of if you are like me and you forget cook on high for 5 hrs or until shreddable...yes, that's a word)

Grab your flour tortillas and add your shredded pork...a little of the incredible sauce..some cilantro sprigs (Hi LeAnna) and some radishes. (Thank You Tin Star for this addition)

I scoured the net for a good mexican rice (I had yet to find one I ♥) and got a collection...hit my FB friends up for one too and they seemed to concur with the ones I found)

Onion, rice, chicken broth, rotel, and some seasonings.

Saute your onion and rice for a few mins....then add ur broth and rotel to boil. Reduce heat to simmer for about 20 mins. Top with cheese.

It was fair. Still not exactly what I'm looking for.....

If you have a Mexican Rice recipe different from the one above...please send my way.

I wish I had taken pictures of the tacos. (we were hungry) But take my word....they were outstanding. Even Mini Me said "Hey Mom, how come we haven't had this more often?"

She will be getting her wish. I have another 3.5 lb pork loin in the freezer and I'm thinking Pulled Pork Sandwiches next week. (one meal down next week six more to go)

WILW

2011-09-07T08:14:00.001-05:00

This is my first time to participate in What I'm Loving Wednesday....

I'm loving the weather finally in my neck of the woods in the morning

I'm loving bath time made easier since dude friend can sit up in the water

I'm loving he can entertain himself so mommy can unload the dishes

I'm loving my morning coffee....dude friend now thinks that 6am is the perfect time to wake up for the day. FYI...yesterday morning I ate a Tic Tac and then took a drink of my coffee...IT WAS THE GREATEST SIP EVER...I think I'm on to something.

I'm loving Target...today Mini Me has an Ortho appt...which means I wait next door in Target until she is finished. I'm freaking out excited.

I'm loving my bottle of Meclizine...I can maybe function again. Been having a tough time of it...got this behind the counter for $4.40 at Tarjay....It had the name Rugby on it...made me think I should go to Ireland for a game.

Cowboy Boots & Baby Booties

Pinky Pink Pink

Cow Gas, Elephant Poop, and Table Talk

Pregnancy Cravings....Family At My Mercy

Party Planning Mode....Fun Ideas....

My Sweet Tooth Is Killing Me

You're My Hero = Code for You're a Freak

Us + 10 = Chaos

Conversations Between a Husband and the Wife

It's Always About Her....

Miscellany Monday...and Giveaway Winner

Shabby Apple Giveaway Ending Soon...

Creamy Blueberry Banana Dessert

That's My Girl....More Lily-isms

*Shabby Apple Giveaway*

A New Years Surprise.....

It's a Southern Thing....Black Eyed Peas

Well That Was Scary

Dear Santa,

He's an Extra

Jolly Ol Saint Nick....and a Lil Screamer....

Ho Ho Ho Merry Candy Canes.......

Only In My House

multitask

Foto Friday: Back Off Jack...They're all Mine

"No little baby....They are all mine....Run away!"

It's Torture When Chocolate is Around

Fudgy Goodness...

Miscellany Monday....Elvis is in the Building

Cookie Exchange Party

10 Months.....Rugged Boy in the Making

It's Almost Here...

Work With Me Peeps....

H, L, J, and P

Updates.....

Bug and Blood

My Sources For Entertainment

OhMyGreatness

Gobble Gobble...Turkey Hunting

I Can't Let It Go.....

Wobble Wobble

Not Your Usual Thankful List....

You Evil Evil Little Site

Daddy's and Daughter's

5 Years Ago....

Hello My Name Is Laura and I'm Addicted to Pinterest

9 Months In and 9 Months Out

Happy Miscellany Halloween Monday....Guess Who's Walking

So That's Why They Say That.....(Reminder alert)

Lily-ism's Continued....

Tricks and Treats...Halloween Cookies

Pumpkin Mousse Cupcakes....and Dude

Directions

A Trip Back in Time

You Know You Are A Big Family When....

Me and the Hubs

It's Ok Thursday....

Me and My Quirks

Step Away From the Scissors

It's Ok Thursday....

What I'm Lovin Wednesday

An Arm and A Leg

Miscellany Lundi....My Dude Friend

Sticky Sweet

It's Ok...Thursday

Potty Training....With a Lily

I Can't Stop Thinking About It

Happy Birthday Lillian Brenna...Party Time

Ingredients

Preparation

In a Panic..Motherhood at it's Finest

Watch Your Mouth

The View From A Child's Eyes

Under Attack

It's Ok Thursday....

Wordless Wednesday: Me in the Raw

It's Sinful..

Miscellany Monday...3rd Birthday Sneak Peek

Horse Mouth

Bless This Food That I'm About To Inhale...

Shabby Apple Giveaway