I was supposed to be at girls camp today. Have I ever mentioned how much I love girls camp? I didn't as a youth... had to be bribed into going. I actually almost hated it. (But hey... I think you might not have liked it so much either if your very first year you went with just one other girl from your ward and NO leaders. We were told not to worry about a tent... there was one in the storage shed at church we could use. And guess what, that "tent" turned out to be an actual TEEPEE! I kid you NOT! Not only was it totally embarrassing, but it was hot! And, there was only ONE outhouse that we could use, and no showers. And when we went on our big hike, we were promised an awesome swimming hole at the end. That was dried up, and then they got us lost on our way back to camp. We probably hiked about 10 miles (ok... that might be an exaggeration!) The next year we went back to the same campgound, but they at least let us pay $1 to go take showers at another campgound, and they actually took us to the swimming pool. Sorry... I digress...)
Anyway... I had to make the tough decision to not go to camp this year. I was supposed to be the first level leader. And the girls were so cute and so much fun. I got to meet them in March during a camp meeting. That made the decision even harder because I knew what cuteness and fun I was going to be missing out on. I tried to convince myself that I could still go, but would just have to take it easy. I was sure that I would be fine enough after my surgery to go. I decided I really needed to pray about it. I had that deep down gut feeling that I shouldn't do it, but I just couldn't stand not being with all that cute and fun!
So, it took me a while to actually make that final decision. I finally did, though, and let the stake know I would not be able to make it. I know now that it was the right decision to make. Seems that I am a slow healer, and my body is not moving as quickly as my spirit wishes it would. I had a doc appt. this week. I am healing nicely, but still have more healing to do. Being at camp this week might have just put me in bed for another 2 or 3 weeks. And trust me... there are moments when I can't stand the thoughts of being in bed anymore. There are other times, though, when I can't wait to get there, and I'm afraid I would have had lots of those if I had gone.
I am missing my baby, who is at camp this week. I know she is having fun, though. I am sure camp will be a wonderful experience for all those attending... it is every year. I've been to camp 12 of the last 14 years, and this is the only year I have not voluntarily gone. (One year they didn't want me because I had just been released as the stake camp leader... who would want that hanging around? I understood, but I still cried like a dadgum baby! ) I hope they will have me back next year. I hope this body cooperates and lets me!
Showing posts with label About Me. Show all posts
Showing posts with label About Me. Show all posts
Thursday, July 7, 2011
Thursday, June 16, 2011
Random thoughts...
Thank you to everyone who comment on my blog post yesterday. I wasn't sure if I was going to post it or not... didn't want it to feel like a "hey, look at me!" kind of thing.
In answer to a few of your comments...
Karen - the Gigi's cupcake was awesome! I didn't eat it all by myself, though! I brought it home and shared it with the kids.
Jenni - I discovered Hyster Sisters before my surgery, but I've spent a lot more time on there since. Some great information, and some funny stuff, too! Right now I am suffering from "swellibellicus" and can't wait to feel like my regular clothes fit me right again!
I've decided that having cable cut off the week of my surgery was not the best timing in the world. I was in such a hurry to get my kids out from in front of cartoon network every time I turned around, that I forgot I would be without food network while I recover. Network day-time tv really STINKS!
My sweet hubby hooked up the wii to the tv in our room so I could watch movies through netflix. It was so sweet of him, but intant-view through netflix kind of stinks, too. Doesn't seem to be a whole lot of good choices. So, if any of you could recommend something that I could watch instantly through netflix that I have not stumbled upon yet, I would appreciate it greatly!
I've seen a lot of commercials lately for this new show coming out on ABC this summer called Expedition Impossible. Don't know that I will watch it, but I can't help thinking that I want the blind guy to win it all, and it just might be funny to see a bunch of Brooklyn girls in the sand, yo!
I've been reading President Monson's biography. He was a real prankster as a kid! Kind of gives me hope for my boys!
Online shopping isn't nearly as fun as real shopping. And speaking of shopping, I should have bought myself those cute pj pants I wanted before my surgery.
Well... I guess I've bored everyone long enough!
In answer to a few of your comments...
Karen - the Gigi's cupcake was awesome! I didn't eat it all by myself, though! I brought it home and shared it with the kids.
Jenni - I discovered Hyster Sisters before my surgery, but I've spent a lot more time on there since. Some great information, and some funny stuff, too! Right now I am suffering from "swellibellicus" and can't wait to feel like my regular clothes fit me right again!
I've decided that having cable cut off the week of my surgery was not the best timing in the world. I was in such a hurry to get my kids out from in front of cartoon network every time I turned around, that I forgot I would be without food network while I recover. Network day-time tv really STINKS!
My sweet hubby hooked up the wii to the tv in our room so I could watch movies through netflix. It was so sweet of him, but intant-view through netflix kind of stinks, too. Doesn't seem to be a whole lot of good choices. So, if any of you could recommend something that I could watch instantly through netflix that I have not stumbled upon yet, I would appreciate it greatly!
I've seen a lot of commercials lately for this new show coming out on ABC this summer called Expedition Impossible. Don't know that I will watch it, but I can't help thinking that I want the blind guy to win it all, and it just might be funny to see a bunch of Brooklyn girls in the sand, yo!
I've been reading President Monson's biography. He was a real prankster as a kid! Kind of gives me hope for my boys!
Online shopping isn't nearly as fun as real shopping. And speaking of shopping, I should have bought myself those cute pj pants I wanted before my surgery.
Well... I guess I've bored everyone long enough!
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Glad that's over.
I've been hesitant to talk a lot about my health issues of late. I seem to have been spending way too much time at the doctor's office since February. There is actually a funny story behind all the madness, and since I've pretty much got nothing better to do right now, I'm going to tell it; sorry you have to sit through it, though!
I've had hypothyroidism for years. That means that my thyroid does not produce enough hormone, and I have to take a pill every morning. I knew that I hadn't been feeling just right, and I knew that it had been a while since I had it checked, so I called my doctor's office and made an appointment to get some labs done. I've done that before... just labs to get the thing checked... no sit-down time with the doc. Well, when I got there, low and behold, the doc decides she wants to have a sit-down with me, since it's been a while. CRAP! I didn't want that, but oh, well - not a lot I can do about it at that point. So, when she comes in, I start telling her some of the things that are going on with me - all things that I feel can be traced back to my thyroid (you would really be amazed at how much that simple little organ and its hormones control!). She thinks it might be something more, and adds more tests to be done on the blood sample that is about to be taken. Then, she asks me what I dreaded hearing... "Are you getting your regular paps done?" And, I am ashamed to say, I flat out lied to her! I won't tell you how long it has been since I actually did have one done, but let's just say it's been a L.O.N.G. time. This is also the point where she asks me about my mamograms, and since I've already posted about that saga, I won't go into it again here.
Anyway, I leave her office feeling GUILTY as sin for lying, and so a few days later I decide to actually make an appointment with a gyno. I get in a week later, and have the deed done. The results came back just fine, but I did have an enlarged uterus, and we needed to find out why. The same day that I had the second mamogram done, I had an ultrasound done to see what was up with the uterus. The answer came back fibroids, and the decision was made to have to have a hysterectomy. The things were only going to get bigger and cause more problems until I went through menopause, and since I am only in my early 40's, who knows how long that would be.
Meanwhile, I hear back on some of the other bloodwork that was done at my original doc appt. My thyroid was off so we had to do some playing around with the meds. Also, one of my sugar levels was high... not too high, but inching up there, indicating a risk for diabetes. Double CRAP! I have family members with diabetes, and it is not a pretty disease. The good news was that I did not have full blown diabetic, and there was something I could still do to change it.
Starting in February, I completely changed the way I eat. I started trying to educate myself some on the disease, and what I could do to prevent it. I have tried to cut out as much sugar as I can from my diet, but it's not just about sugar. It's also about lower carbs, and higher fiber, and eating more whole grains. I have a sweet-tooth a mile long, and this has not been an easy thing to do. Do you know how many times a cupcake, brownie, cookie or candy came across my desk in that first week? It was insane, but I resisted. After a while it became easier to do. I also love potatoes, but I've cut way back on eating those as well. I no longer eat white rice or pasta, either - only brown rice and wheat pasta for me. I also gave up sodas. I only drink water and occassionally milk. Whole wheat breads and whole grains, fruits, more fresh veggies, leaner meats - those are the things I try to eat more of now. And I added excersice - wii fit and walking. One tip I came across that I loved was to park in the back of the parking lot when you go shopping... that way you are forced to walk more.
So, last week I had my hysterectomy done. As I weighed in before they took me back for surgery, I had lost a total of 23 pounds. I'll be honest, I am afraid to get on a scale this week. With all the yummy food that has been brought over, and no walking for me, I do not want to see what the scales say. I still have more weight that I would like to lose, but honestly, it has become more about being healthy than it has about being skinny.
I feel like I can finally say I am really back on the road to good health. I'm looking forward to getting back out and walking, or getting on the wii and playing. I am trying to be good and let my body heal from the surgery. I am bored to tears just sitting around "healing"! ha!!
I want to set a better example for my kids, and I think I am on the road to doing that. It feels good to be on this side of issues, rather than facing them all like I was a few months ago. I go back to the doc for more bloodwork in a few weeks, and I am confident that they will tell me my sugar levels are back to within normal ranges. Isn't it funny how wonderful "normal" can be?
Sorry to have posted such a novel... but like I said, I have nothing much to do right now other than sit and type. This whole thing started with my only wanting one simple blood test to check my thyroid! I didn't know it was going to turn into such a saga, but I guess I am glad it did. Isn't there a scripture about small and simple things...
:)
I've had hypothyroidism for years. That means that my thyroid does not produce enough hormone, and I have to take a pill every morning. I knew that I hadn't been feeling just right, and I knew that it had been a while since I had it checked, so I called my doctor's office and made an appointment to get some labs done. I've done that before... just labs to get the thing checked... no sit-down time with the doc. Well, when I got there, low and behold, the doc decides she wants to have a sit-down with me, since it's been a while. CRAP! I didn't want that, but oh, well - not a lot I can do about it at that point. So, when she comes in, I start telling her some of the things that are going on with me - all things that I feel can be traced back to my thyroid (you would really be amazed at how much that simple little organ and its hormones control!). She thinks it might be something more, and adds more tests to be done on the blood sample that is about to be taken. Then, she asks me what I dreaded hearing... "Are you getting your regular paps done?" And, I am ashamed to say, I flat out lied to her! I won't tell you how long it has been since I actually did have one done, but let's just say it's been a L.O.N.G. time. This is also the point where she asks me about my mamograms, and since I've already posted about that saga, I won't go into it again here.
Anyway, I leave her office feeling GUILTY as sin for lying, and so a few days later I decide to actually make an appointment with a gyno. I get in a week later, and have the deed done. The results came back just fine, but I did have an enlarged uterus, and we needed to find out why. The same day that I had the second mamogram done, I had an ultrasound done to see what was up with the uterus. The answer came back fibroids, and the decision was made to have to have a hysterectomy. The things were only going to get bigger and cause more problems until I went through menopause, and since I am only in my early 40's, who knows how long that would be.
Meanwhile, I hear back on some of the other bloodwork that was done at my original doc appt. My thyroid was off so we had to do some playing around with the meds. Also, one of my sugar levels was high... not too high, but inching up there, indicating a risk for diabetes. Double CRAP! I have family members with diabetes, and it is not a pretty disease. The good news was that I did not have full blown diabetic, and there was something I could still do to change it.
Starting in February, I completely changed the way I eat. I started trying to educate myself some on the disease, and what I could do to prevent it. I have tried to cut out as much sugar as I can from my diet, but it's not just about sugar. It's also about lower carbs, and higher fiber, and eating more whole grains. I have a sweet-tooth a mile long, and this has not been an easy thing to do. Do you know how many times a cupcake, brownie, cookie or candy came across my desk in that first week? It was insane, but I resisted. After a while it became easier to do. I also love potatoes, but I've cut way back on eating those as well. I no longer eat white rice or pasta, either - only brown rice and wheat pasta for me. I also gave up sodas. I only drink water and occassionally milk. Whole wheat breads and whole grains, fruits, more fresh veggies, leaner meats - those are the things I try to eat more of now. And I added excersice - wii fit and walking. One tip I came across that I loved was to park in the back of the parking lot when you go shopping... that way you are forced to walk more.
So, last week I had my hysterectomy done. As I weighed in before they took me back for surgery, I had lost a total of 23 pounds. I'll be honest, I am afraid to get on a scale this week. With all the yummy food that has been brought over, and no walking for me, I do not want to see what the scales say. I still have more weight that I would like to lose, but honestly, it has become more about being healthy than it has about being skinny.
I feel like I can finally say I am really back on the road to good health. I'm looking forward to getting back out and walking, or getting on the wii and playing. I am trying to be good and let my body heal from the surgery. I am bored to tears just sitting around "healing"! ha!!
I want to set a better example for my kids, and I think I am on the road to doing that. It feels good to be on this side of issues, rather than facing them all like I was a few months ago. I go back to the doc for more bloodwork in a few weeks, and I am confident that they will tell me my sugar levels are back to within normal ranges. Isn't it funny how wonderful "normal" can be?
Sorry to have posted such a novel... but like I said, I have nothing much to do right now other than sit and type. This whole thing started with my only wanting one simple blood test to check my thyroid! I didn't know it was going to turn into such a saga, but I guess I am glad it did. Isn't there a scripture about small and simple things...
:)
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
Happy Birthday, Barry!
Today is my wonderful hubby's birthday!! I won't tell you how old he is, but it's older than me! ;)
These are a couple of my favorite pictures of him from our family pictures last month. I love that he laughes with his eyes.
He has a great sense of humor, and he makes me laugh all the time. Sometimes he does it when I am really mad at him, which kind of ticks me off to be honest. But I love that he can make me laugh no matter what.
He is a hard worker and he does his best to provide for our family. He really does not like his job, but he goes everyday so we can have the things we need.
He loves to explore and see new places. I loved seeing his wonder and amazement when I took him to Idaho a few years ago. He had been to Utah plenty of times, but I think mainly he stayed in the city. To get him out into the wide open spaces of Idaho was an adventure.
He is inquisative. He loves to ask questions and learn more about things.
He is loyal and protective.
He loves simple things - chili dogs, sitting on the porch reading, blue jeans, spending time with his family.
He is a sports enthusiast... football and soccer are his favorites. Although, if hockey were on tv more he would watch a lot more if it.
He is very opinionated... I think that is standard issue for a Mayfield! :) And he can get very passionate about some of those opinions!
He is a wonderful father and husband. This month we also celebrate our 20th anniversary, and I am very thankful to have been his wife for these past 20 years. We haven't always had the most smooth waters to sail, but we have navigated them together, and grown a lot from the process.
I love you, Barry, and I'm grateful we are on this journey together!
These are a couple of my favorite pictures of him from our family pictures last month. I love that he laughes with his eyes.
He has a great sense of humor, and he makes me laugh all the time. Sometimes he does it when I am really mad at him, which kind of ticks me off to be honest. But I love that he can make me laugh no matter what.
He is a hard worker and he does his best to provide for our family. He really does not like his job, but he goes everyday so we can have the things we need.
He loves to explore and see new places. I loved seeing his wonder and amazement when I took him to Idaho a few years ago. He had been to Utah plenty of times, but I think mainly he stayed in the city. To get him out into the wide open spaces of Idaho was an adventure.
He is inquisative. He loves to ask questions and learn more about things.
He is loyal and protective.
He loves simple things - chili dogs, sitting on the porch reading, blue jeans, spending time with his family.
He is a sports enthusiast... football and soccer are his favorites. Although, if hockey were on tv more he would watch a lot more if it.
He is very opinionated... I think that is standard issue for a Mayfield! :) And he can get very passionate about some of those opinions!
He is a wonderful father and husband. This month we also celebrate our 20th anniversary, and I am very thankful to have been his wife for these past 20 years. We haven't always had the most smooth waters to sail, but we have navigated them together, and grown a lot from the process.
I love you, Barry, and I'm grateful we are on this journey together!
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Happy Birthday, Kaytibug!
This beautiful daughter of mine turned 19 yesterday.
I know what you are thinking... she can't possibly be 19 when I am only 25... heehee! ;)
She enjoyed a quiet birthday yesterday... she got to stay in her pj's all day, and enjoy a nice quiet house. She had her favorite meals all day... bacon and cheese omelette for breakfast, potato soup for lunch, and fajitas for dinner. Then she had her favorite yellow cake with chocolate frosting and Blue Bell chocolate chip cookie dough ice cream when dad got home from his class.
I love this girl... and I don't know what I would do without her. She helps out with housework and laundry when she is not in school, helps me get meals on the table, gives the best back rubs, and helps keep her siblings in line.
This girl has plans! She will have her associates degree by the end of December, and by next fall she plans on being in Idaho. She wants to eventually be a writer, and support herself as a book editor while she is waiting to make her millions. She thinks she is going to someday live in New York City or Spokane, or some other far, far away city. I think Atlanta or Nashville would be a lot nicer! Although, I did tell her she could move to Savannah, Georgia and I could come visit her often!
She has worked hard in school... she started college two weeks after she graduated high school, and has been going non-stop. She made the Dean's List her first semester, and the President's List the next two.
I am proud of her and the choices she has made in life. I admire her strength in Spiritual matters. I push her a lot to get outside of her comfort zone, and while I know it is hard, I appreciate how she tries.
She is a fun girl, with a great laugh! She loves just hanging out with her family, and can be found usually with her siblings surrounding her.
She is a great example.
We have teased her that she has always been the "anti-teen". She hated talking on the phone or putting on make-up. She never really fussed over hair, or was dying to get out of the house and away from us. She has always been a little older than her years.
I'm thankful that she is my daughter! I can't believe it has been 19 years since she joined our family. We have loved every minute of it, and I can't wait to see what the next 19 years hold for her.
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Redefining life... yet again.
I am blessed to know an incredibly strong and courageous woman. She and I do not share the same religious views, but she is a woman of great faith.
I met this lady when I started working at Liberty. She was the school secretary at the time, and her husband had just won a battle with cancer. Unfortunately, within 6 months, his cancer had returned, bigger and badder than before. They fought a long and hard battle together, but a few months later the cancer got the best of him, and he was called home. Sharon was left with a teen-age son to raise (her oldest son had already left home), and while it wasn't easy, she can now proudly say that he has just finished his first year of college at Alabama.
On April 27th, just after the first tornado moved through the area, Sharon got a call from a neighbor. There was some damage around their community, and as soon as we got out of school she raced home. Several more tornadoes moved through their community that day, and while I am not sure of the exact chain of events, her house was hit, and most of her neighborhood was wiped out. Her house is still standing, but not livable. Her son was still in Tuscaloosa that day, and while there was lots of damage all around him, he was on campus and safe.
In the days since, she has had to find a new place to live, salvage what she could out of her house, and deal with lots of insurance reps. Today she had two huge trees removed from her yard, and the kids and I helped her clear them. She had to board up one of her front windows that was blown out, and this is what it now looks like.
She wanted to put something on the board to make a statement. I think it is a pretty powerful one.
I hope that if I ever have to go through some of the things that she has, I can handle them with as much dignity and grace as she has. She is an inspiration to me, and I am blessed to call her my friend.
I met this lady when I started working at Liberty. She was the school secretary at the time, and her husband had just won a battle with cancer. Unfortunately, within 6 months, his cancer had returned, bigger and badder than before. They fought a long and hard battle together, but a few months later the cancer got the best of him, and he was called home. Sharon was left with a teen-age son to raise (her oldest son had already left home), and while it wasn't easy, she can now proudly say that he has just finished his first year of college at Alabama.
On April 27th, just after the first tornado moved through the area, Sharon got a call from a neighbor. There was some damage around their community, and as soon as we got out of school she raced home. Several more tornadoes moved through their community that day, and while I am not sure of the exact chain of events, her house was hit, and most of her neighborhood was wiped out. Her house is still standing, but not livable. Her son was still in Tuscaloosa that day, and while there was lots of damage all around him, he was on campus and safe.
In the days since, she has had to find a new place to live, salvage what she could out of her house, and deal with lots of insurance reps. Today she had two huge trees removed from her yard, and the kids and I helped her clear them. She had to board up one of her front windows that was blown out, and this is what it now looks like.
She wanted to put something on the board to make a statement. I think it is a pretty powerful one.
I hope that if I ever have to go through some of the things that she has, I can handle them with as much dignity and grace as she has. She is an inspiration to me, and I am blessed to call her my friend.
Sunday, May 1, 2011
A few thoughts
The words "destroyed", "devistation", "wiped out", "destruction" have never had more meaning; but neither have the words, "safety", "blessed", "alive and well".
Our state was hit by severe weather on Wednesday. We've experienced severe weather before, but it has been a long time since we had anything this bad. In 1974 we have a night full of tornadoes... I was 4 years old and remember spending the night in our basement. I remember my parents getting on to missionaries who were out trying to take pictures of the storms. I remember hearing stories of families who survived the storms in their bathrooms. Being born and raised in the South, tornadoes are nothing new. But the storms that hit us on Wednesday were definitely record-breakers.
I won't bore you with details of our day... I am sure they are pretty much like everyone elses. We are blessed that we did not have any damage to our home, or any family member. We have some family with damage to their homes and property. We have some family that live in a neighborhood that was heavily damaged. Probably about 80% of the homes are gone, or so heavily damaged that they will have to be bull-dozed over. One person lost their life in this neighborhood. We were blessed with the opportunity to go there on Saturday and help with some of the clean-up. What a remarkable spirit that is alive in this neighborhood. So many people just thankful to be alive, and thankful to have any help they could get. Some of them were even more concerned about our safety than their property.
I am so thankful for this experience. I am sure that as time goes on, there will be bigger news stories, and the focus will shift to other things, but I know this has been an experience that my family and I will never forget. I don't know that words can actually describe my feelings. I have thanked my Heavenly Father over and over again for all my blessings. As I sit here tonight with my power back on, I feel even more gratitude... there are still so many without it. How blessed we are.
Our state was hit by severe weather on Wednesday. We've experienced severe weather before, but it has been a long time since we had anything this bad. In 1974 we have a night full of tornadoes... I was 4 years old and remember spending the night in our basement. I remember my parents getting on to missionaries who were out trying to take pictures of the storms. I remember hearing stories of families who survived the storms in their bathrooms. Being born and raised in the South, tornadoes are nothing new. But the storms that hit us on Wednesday were definitely record-breakers.
I won't bore you with details of our day... I am sure they are pretty much like everyone elses. We are blessed that we did not have any damage to our home, or any family member. We have some family with damage to their homes and property. We have some family that live in a neighborhood that was heavily damaged. Probably about 80% of the homes are gone, or so heavily damaged that they will have to be bull-dozed over. One person lost their life in this neighborhood. We were blessed with the opportunity to go there on Saturday and help with some of the clean-up. What a remarkable spirit that is alive in this neighborhood. So many people just thankful to be alive, and thankful to have any help they could get. Some of them were even more concerned about our safety than their property.
I am so thankful for this experience. I am sure that as time goes on, there will be bigger news stories, and the focus will shift to other things, but I know this has been an experience that my family and I will never forget. I don't know that words can actually describe my feelings. I have thanked my Heavenly Father over and over again for all my blessings. As I sit here tonight with my power back on, I feel even more gratitude... there are still so many without it. How blessed we are.
Monday, April 25, 2011
Another project weekend
We had lots of projects lined up for the weekend... some we planned for, and some we didn't.
We planned on working some more on the front flower bed. The boys did a great job!!
We decided to not try to extend the bed down the side of the house just yet. We are excited by how just the front bed looks now... we love it! Now it's time for me to go flower shopping!!
We also spent the weekend replacing a dead battery in one of the cars, running kids to different activities, shopping for Easter basket stuff, hitting the dollar movie (I am Number Four was awesome!!), and we even managed to sneak in a little bit of relaxing.
Hope you had a great weekend, and an enjoyable Easter Sunday!
We planned on working some more on the front flower bed. The boys did a great job!!
We decided to not try to extend the bed down the side of the house just yet. We are excited by how just the front bed looks now... we love it! Now it's time for me to go flower shopping!!
We also spent the weekend replacing a dead battery in one of the cars, running kids to different activities, shopping for Easter basket stuff, hitting the dollar movie (I am Number Four was awesome!!), and we even managed to sneak in a little bit of relaxing.
Hope you had a great weekend, and an enjoyable Easter Sunday!
There she goes again...
Meg is being all creative!
She grabbed my camera and headed out the other morning to take pictures of the peonies and irises.
And I think she did a great job!
She grabbed my camera and headed out the other morning to take pictures of the peonies and irises.
And I think she did a great job!
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Blooms and Faces
Blooms
Very slowly this week, my peony has started bursting out of its shell!
Friday morning:
Saturday:
Sunday:
It smells heavenly, and there are 2 more buds just waiting to open up. I'm so excited!!
Faces
This is the face of my youngest before she left for her first church youth dance! She was really excited, and she had a fun time!
These are the faces (and hands) of the two youngest after they devoured some wings:
It has been a busy weekend. I am sad to see it come to an end. I really wish I could get a three day weekend every weekend. Saturdays are used for catching up around the house/running errands, Sundays are Church days (having services in the middle of the afternoon really cuts down on my Sunday rest time... just saying!), and I need one extra day just to do something that I want to do. It could be anything... crafting, reading, road trip. Just something fun and relaxing!
Oh well... enough complaining! Hope everyone else had a great weekend!
Very slowly this week, my peony has started bursting out of its shell!
Friday morning:
Saturday:
Sunday:
It smells heavenly, and there are 2 more buds just waiting to open up. I'm so excited!!
Faces
This is the face of my youngest before she left for her first church youth dance! She was really excited, and she had a fun time!
These are the faces (and hands) of the two youngest after they devoured some wings:
It has been a busy weekend. I am sad to see it come to an end. I really wish I could get a three day weekend every weekend. Saturdays are used for catching up around the house/running errands, Sundays are Church days (having services in the middle of the afternoon really cuts down on my Sunday rest time... just saying!), and I need one extra day just to do something that I want to do. It could be anything... crafting, reading, road trip. Just something fun and relaxing!
Oh well... enough complaining! Hope everyone else had a great weekend!
Sunday, April 10, 2011
Diggin' in the dirt
I am not known for being a very patient person. When I get an idea in my head, I want to do it right then. My hubby, on the other hand, is a fan of "some day". You know... that will be nice to do "some day". Well, we have been talking about different projects that we want to do outside around the house. Barry suggested that one day we should get a clip board and walk around outside and write down everything we want to do. That way we have a list of weekend projects that we can work from. I thought that was a great idea, so yesterday while the shrimp stock was boiling away, I grabbed him and a clip board and we headed outside.
We have always hated the bushes in the front of the house. There are at least 3 or 4 different varieties out there, and they don't make any rhyme or reason. And on top of that, there was a HUGE butterfly bush that was taking over everything. We wrote down our plans for the front, then started wondering about the cost of some of our ideas. I suggested a quick trip to Lowe's to price some things. He agreed, but stated that we were NOT buying anything today... $40 later we were on our way back home! Barry gave me a bit of a dirty look, and stated that he was sure it was my diabolical plan to make him actually work yesterday!
Well, he did work very hard. He and the boys removed several bushes, transplanted some others, and we planted a couple of new things as well. It looks so much better out front! We are also going to extend a bed around the side of the house and plant some more things there.
I tried to find a good before picture... I forgot to take one before we got started. The only one I could really find was taken during one of the snows we had over the winter... I'll post it just so you can get an idea of what we did. So, before:
And after:
We got rid of all the bushes in the front row, and the overgrown butterfly bush that was taking over everything. We got two new boxwoods to match the three in the back that we liked. We kept/transplanted the gladiolus and the irises, and I put in an azalea.
My plan is to put in two more... one on either end of the bed. In the front of the bed, where we removed the bushes, I'll plant flowers. Then we want to extend the bed down this side of the house... we transplanted a couple of bushes there:
We have a small little area to the right of the entrance. When we moved in, there was one little bush planted there, and then tons of monkey grass that was choking the poor thing to death. We removed the grass, but the bush never really seemed to fill out and look any better. We removed it yesterday, too, and replaced it with a peony. I am really excited about that... I love them!
And it's almost ready to bloom, too!!
We got a little pink (okay, red!) out in the sun yesterday... or maybe that was just me! But it was worth it, and when we get it all looking like we want it to look, I will be so thrilled! I'm thankful that my hubby put up with me yesterday, and my boys helped to provide some of the labor. I knew having teenage boys would pay off one day! ;)
We have always hated the bushes in the front of the house. There are at least 3 or 4 different varieties out there, and they don't make any rhyme or reason. And on top of that, there was a HUGE butterfly bush that was taking over everything. We wrote down our plans for the front, then started wondering about the cost of some of our ideas. I suggested a quick trip to Lowe's to price some things. He agreed, but stated that we were NOT buying anything today... $40 later we were on our way back home! Barry gave me a bit of a dirty look, and stated that he was sure it was my diabolical plan to make him actually work yesterday!
Well, he did work very hard. He and the boys removed several bushes, transplanted some others, and we planted a couple of new things as well. It looks so much better out front! We are also going to extend a bed around the side of the house and plant some more things there.
I tried to find a good before picture... I forgot to take one before we got started. The only one I could really find was taken during one of the snows we had over the winter... I'll post it just so you can get an idea of what we did. So, before:
And after:
We got rid of all the bushes in the front row, and the overgrown butterfly bush that was taking over everything. We got two new boxwoods to match the three in the back that we liked. We kept/transplanted the gladiolus and the irises, and I put in an azalea.
My plan is to put in two more... one on either end of the bed. In the front of the bed, where we removed the bushes, I'll plant flowers. Then we want to extend the bed down this side of the house... we transplanted a couple of bushes there:
We have a small little area to the right of the entrance. When we moved in, there was one little bush planted there, and then tons of monkey grass that was choking the poor thing to death. We removed the grass, but the bush never really seemed to fill out and look any better. We removed it yesterday, too, and replaced it with a peony. I am really excited about that... I love them!
And it's almost ready to bloom, too!!
We got a little pink (okay, red!) out in the sun yesterday... or maybe that was just me! But it was worth it, and when we get it all looking like we want it to look, I will be so thrilled! I'm thankful that my hubby put up with me yesterday, and my boys helped to provide some of the labor. I knew having teenage boys would pay off one day! ;)
Shrimp Etouffee
A while back, Barry decided that we should have shrimp etouffee for dinner. He got online and researched some recipes. Then we forgot all about it! Last week as I was putting together my menues and grocery shopping list, he mentioned it again. I got the recipe (actually a series of recipes), and we added the ingredients we needed to the shopping list. Because we were making everything from the creole seasoning mix to the shrimp stock to the actual etouffee from scratch, we knew we would need a Saturday to put it all together. We just don't have that kind of time on a week night.
Yesterday we decided was the day to make it. We started out with fresh shrimp with shells and tails on. Barry took care of prepping the shrimp while I chopped the veggies. For the stock, we needed the tails and shells of the shrimp, and some onions, celery, garlic, lemons, bay leaves, fresh thyme and peppercorns.
That has to simmer for about an hour, and it smelled really good! After it was finished we let it cool, then strained it.
When it was time to make the etouffee, we made up the creole seasoning... lots of garlic, paprika, salt, pepper (black and cayenne... also called for white, but we couldn't find that).
We used this to season the shrimp and the sauce.
We began by sweating some onions, bell peppers, celery and garlic.
Then we made a roux, and then added the shrimp stock. Next we added chopped tomatoes and fresh herbs.
That cooked and thickened for a while, then we added the shrimp and let that cook until the shrimp was done.
We then served it over rice... and it was so yummy!!!
Josh decided he needed to make his plate look like it came straight from a restuarant chef... the rest of us just piled it up!
Some of our kiddos do not like shrimp, but we made them eat some of it anyway. They decided that they liked the rice and sauce by itself, but they were still not fans of the shrimp. I loved it all the way around, and so did Barry. Those who do not like shrimp asked us if we could make it again but use chicken instead. I'm thinking some yummy smoked sausage would be good in it, too.
And special thanks to Megan for being out photographer! Her daddy asked her to document this dish. I'm not sure which needed documenting more, the new dish, or her daddy in the kitchen! He is a great cook, but doesn't do it often.
Yesterday we decided was the day to make it. We started out with fresh shrimp with shells and tails on. Barry took care of prepping the shrimp while I chopped the veggies. For the stock, we needed the tails and shells of the shrimp, and some onions, celery, garlic, lemons, bay leaves, fresh thyme and peppercorns.
That has to simmer for about an hour, and it smelled really good! After it was finished we let it cool, then strained it.
When it was time to make the etouffee, we made up the creole seasoning... lots of garlic, paprika, salt, pepper (black and cayenne... also called for white, but we couldn't find that).
We used this to season the shrimp and the sauce.
We began by sweating some onions, bell peppers, celery and garlic.
Then we made a roux, and then added the shrimp stock. Next we added chopped tomatoes and fresh herbs.
That cooked and thickened for a while, then we added the shrimp and let that cook until the shrimp was done.
We then served it over rice... and it was so yummy!!!
Josh decided he needed to make his plate look like it came straight from a restuarant chef... the rest of us just piled it up!
Some of our kiddos do not like shrimp, but we made them eat some of it anyway. They decided that they liked the rice and sauce by itself, but they were still not fans of the shrimp. I loved it all the way around, and so did Barry. Those who do not like shrimp asked us if we could make it again but use chicken instead. I'm thinking some yummy smoked sausage would be good in it, too.
And special thanks to Megan for being out photographer! Her daddy asked her to document this dish. I'm not sure which needed documenting more, the new dish, or her daddy in the kitchen! He is a great cook, but doesn't do it often.
What the...
Hail!!
A couple of weeks ago we had a pretty bad storm roll through on a Saturday night. I can usually sleep through thunder storms, but I was jarred awake by a huge clap of thunder, then heard the unmistakable sound of hail hitting the house. It sounded like it was the size of golf balls, and scared me to death. I got up and grabbed the camera... this is what we found outside:
Thankfully we did not have any major damage from it. Some of the plants in the garden looked a little ragged, but they are all coming back nicely now.
I love a good spring thunderstorm, but I think I can live without the hail.
A couple of weeks ago we had a pretty bad storm roll through on a Saturday night. I can usually sleep through thunder storms, but I was jarred awake by a huge clap of thunder, then heard the unmistakable sound of hail hitting the house. It sounded like it was the size of golf balls, and scared me to death. I got up and grabbed the camera... this is what we found outside:
Thankfully we did not have any major damage from it. Some of the plants in the garden looked a little ragged, but they are all coming back nicely now.
I love a good spring thunderstorm, but I think I can live without the hail.
Friday, March 25, 2011
Happy Belated Birthday!!
Miss Megan turned 14 this week. What? How did she become 14 already??
This picture is a little old, but it shows Meg's personality soo much! She is full of life and loves to laugh. She is a little giggle box!
She is a tom-boy, but loves to get all "dolled" up, too. She has a great sense of fashion, and LOVES shoes!
She can be just as easily found out working on the farm as she can reading a book to a younger cousin.
She loves to cook.
She is a great friend.
She is an avid reader.
She also loves to write, and has been working on a story of her own. Her Language Arts teacher sent me an eamil a few months ago and told me that she loves to read Meg's journal entries... each one is like a little story of it's own.
She is athletic. She has played soccer since she was 4, and she can still outrun some guys she knows.
She has a great imagination.
She has a tender heart.
She wants to conquer the world! She has been unsure of what to do with her life because she has so many passions, but her grandpa is trying to convince her to be a vet. She has decided that she might like that idea. But she wants to be a chocolatier, author, wife and mother as well!
She has a real soft spot for animals of all sizes. A few years ago she tried to nurse a tiny kitten back to health, but when it died, my poor girl's heart was broken. She can herd cows like a pro, milk goats and cows, and manage her away around a barn yard with ease.
When she was born, she had firey red hair. With the help of a bottle she got it back! ;) It really does match her personality better than blond hair.
She is working hard to be a straight A student.
I love my Meg! Happy Birthday, baby!!!
We will be having her birthday party this weekend, so more pictures to post soon!
This picture is a little old, but it shows Meg's personality soo much! She is full of life and loves to laugh. She is a little giggle box!
She is a tom-boy, but loves to get all "dolled" up, too. She has a great sense of fashion, and LOVES shoes!
She can be just as easily found out working on the farm as she can reading a book to a younger cousin.
She loves to cook.
She is a great friend.
She is an avid reader.
She also loves to write, and has been working on a story of her own. Her Language Arts teacher sent me an eamil a few months ago and told me that she loves to read Meg's journal entries... each one is like a little story of it's own.
She is athletic. She has played soccer since she was 4, and she can still outrun some guys she knows.
She has a great imagination.
She has a tender heart.
She wants to conquer the world! She has been unsure of what to do with her life because she has so many passions, but her grandpa is trying to convince her to be a vet. She has decided that she might like that idea. But she wants to be a chocolatier, author, wife and mother as well!
She has a real soft spot for animals of all sizes. A few years ago she tried to nurse a tiny kitten back to health, but when it died, my poor girl's heart was broken. She can herd cows like a pro, milk goats and cows, and manage her away around a barn yard with ease.
When she was born, she had firey red hair. With the help of a bottle she got it back! ;) It really does match her personality better than blond hair.
She is working hard to be a straight A student.
I love my Meg! Happy Birthday, baby!!!
We will be having her birthday party this weekend, so more pictures to post soon!
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Been working...
On something! Had to change my header to post a sneak peek!
So thankful for Spring and warm weather!! :)
So thankful for Spring and warm weather!! :)
Friday, March 18, 2011
Public Service Announcement...
If you are 35, go get your baseline mammogram.
If you are 40+, get your yearly mammogram.
Also, do your monthly self exams.
Ok... off my soap box now. The rest of this post will get a bit personal and a bit blunt, so read at your own risk!
I must admit that I didn't follow my own advice for a long time. I didn't go get my baseline mammogram. I occassionally did self exams, but not regularly. I hit 40 last year, and I put off getting checked. And truthfully, that was really stupid on my part. My grandmother died of cancer... it started in her breasts and moved to her liver. Of course, this happened long before I was ever born, so I never saw her suffer through any of it. But still, there is a family history there that I should not have ignored.
I finally went and had my first mammogram about a month ago. A day or two later I was called to come back so they could get some more films on one side. I didn't think a whole lot about it since the tech had told me not to worry if I did get called back... around 50% of all first timers do. I asked them if I could put it off a few weeks until I was home for spring break, and they said yes.
I went in on Tuesday to get more films done, but as it turned out, they wanted to do an ultraound instead of another mammogram. That sent off warning bells in my head, but of course they couldn't tell me anything. They have to get the results to my doctor first, which they did the next day. I got a call bright and early on Wednesday morning that I needed to come in to see the doc. I ran by and grabbed Barry to go with me for moral support, and was so thankful I did. It turned out that I had an abnormal spot that showed up, and they couldn't tell what it was. They recommended that I get a biopsy, and thankfully they were able to get me in that day. Can I just say, the techs, nurses and radiologists at the
Breast Center at the Women's Pavillion are awesome!! So comforting and nurturing.
We didn't get the results until today, and thankfully we got the "All Clear". I have a fibroadenoma, which is a very common benign tumor. I have to be checked a little more often now, but I'll take it. I'm so thankful today! It's been a long week. My sweet hubby took the week off work to stay with me and help me keep my mind off of things. He's the best!! We celebrated today with a quick trip to Nashville and dinner at The Cheesecake Factory.
I love my family, and appreciate all of the thoughts and prayers on my behalf this week. I am truly blessed.
If you are 40+, get your yearly mammogram.
Also, do your monthly self exams.
Ok... off my soap box now. The rest of this post will get a bit personal and a bit blunt, so read at your own risk!
I must admit that I didn't follow my own advice for a long time. I didn't go get my baseline mammogram. I occassionally did self exams, but not regularly. I hit 40 last year, and I put off getting checked. And truthfully, that was really stupid on my part. My grandmother died of cancer... it started in her breasts and moved to her liver. Of course, this happened long before I was ever born, so I never saw her suffer through any of it. But still, there is a family history there that I should not have ignored.
I finally went and had my first mammogram about a month ago. A day or two later I was called to come back so they could get some more films on one side. I didn't think a whole lot about it since the tech had told me not to worry if I did get called back... around 50% of all first timers do. I asked them if I could put it off a few weeks until I was home for spring break, and they said yes.
I went in on Tuesday to get more films done, but as it turned out, they wanted to do an ultraound instead of another mammogram. That sent off warning bells in my head, but of course they couldn't tell me anything. They have to get the results to my doctor first, which they did the next day. I got a call bright and early on Wednesday morning that I needed to come in to see the doc. I ran by and grabbed Barry to go with me for moral support, and was so thankful I did. It turned out that I had an abnormal spot that showed up, and they couldn't tell what it was. They recommended that I get a biopsy, and thankfully they were able to get me in that day. Can I just say, the techs, nurses and radiologists at the
Breast Center at the Women's Pavillion are awesome!! So comforting and nurturing.
We didn't get the results until today, and thankfully we got the "All Clear". I have a fibroadenoma, which is a very common benign tumor. I have to be checked a little more often now, but I'll take it. I'm so thankful today! It's been a long week. My sweet hubby took the week off work to stay with me and help me keep my mind off of things. He's the best!! We celebrated today with a quick trip to Nashville and dinner at The Cheesecake Factory.
I love my family, and appreciate all of the thoughts and prayers on my behalf this week. I am truly blessed.
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Happy Birthday to me!
Not fishing here... just wanted to share what my sweet hubby did for me. And my daughter the next day.
A little back story... Kayti still does not drive. She is getting better, but just not there yet. She has class on Tuesday and Thursday nights, so Barry stays in town after he gets off work so he can bring her home. Her last class of the day does not even start until 8:30 at night, so it is usually close to 10:00 before they get home.
My birthday was on a Thursday this year, so I wasn't expecting a lot of excitement at home. Around 5:30 or so Barry calls, and tells me that Kyle had been texting him that he should take me out for my birthday dinner. So, Barry did. I met him at Cheddars, and enjoyed a yummy dinner (I was good and got a salad. Have you tried their Hawaiian Chicken Salad? To.Die.For.). He told me that he had an idea of what to get me, but wasn't sure if I would like it or not, so he thought he would run it by me first. His idea? A Kindle! Um, yeah, I want one! So after dinner we headed to Target and he let me pick out the one I wanted. It's a sleek, black 3G+wireless beauty.
He knows how much I love to read, and he thought that it would help me reduce the bulk in my Sunday bag if I used that for my scriptures (yes, my first purchase!). I'm thinking long soccer practices, waiting in doctor's offices, waiting for 2 hours in the stupid licensing department for my son to get a picture taken so he can have his official driver's license (oh wait... that's another story!). I used it on Sunday in my Primary class. I must say, my bag was much lighter! I am looking for a sleek case for it... I don't really want to use it until I have one. And I've got my eye on one. I just can't decide on the color...
Green
Or Red?
I'm leaning towards the green, but there is just something about the red!
The day after my birthday I came home to a tasty homemade birthday cake baked by my oldest! She even made the chocolate frosting on it, too! Super Yummy!!
On Monday I went shopping! :)
Don't you just love the store Anthropologie? I do. I first visited one in Birmingham years ago when I was there for a work conference. Fell in love immediately! Can I afford any of their clothes? No. Can I fit into any of their clothes? No. But I ADORE their housewares. I drool for long hours over their housewares. I signed up with their rewards program last year, and guess what? They sent me a cute card and a 15% off coupon for my birthday! So, guess what I did? I bought myself these:
They are measuring spoons, and aren't they just too stinkin' cute? I am in love with them.
I also found myself a cute pair of black flats on clearance at DSW... and with my DSW rewards check I got them for $8! Can't find a picture of them online, and I'm feeling too lazy to get up and just take a picture of them myself, but trust me... super cute!
So yes, my birthday was quite wonderful, and I feel very spoiled. And blessed. I guess turning #%&^$ isn't so bad when you get treated like that!
A little back story... Kayti still does not drive. She is getting better, but just not there yet. She has class on Tuesday and Thursday nights, so Barry stays in town after he gets off work so he can bring her home. Her last class of the day does not even start until 8:30 at night, so it is usually close to 10:00 before they get home.
My birthday was on a Thursday this year, so I wasn't expecting a lot of excitement at home. Around 5:30 or so Barry calls, and tells me that Kyle had been texting him that he should take me out for my birthday dinner. So, Barry did. I met him at Cheddars, and enjoyed a yummy dinner (I was good and got a salad. Have you tried their Hawaiian Chicken Salad? To.Die.For.). He told me that he had an idea of what to get me, but wasn't sure if I would like it or not, so he thought he would run it by me first. His idea? A Kindle! Um, yeah, I want one! So after dinner we headed to Target and he let me pick out the one I wanted. It's a sleek, black 3G+wireless beauty.
He knows how much I love to read, and he thought that it would help me reduce the bulk in my Sunday bag if I used that for my scriptures (yes, my first purchase!). I'm thinking long soccer practices, waiting in doctor's offices, waiting for 2 hours in the stupid licensing department for my son to get a picture taken so he can have his official driver's license (oh wait... that's another story!). I used it on Sunday in my Primary class. I must say, my bag was much lighter! I am looking for a sleek case for it... I don't really want to use it until I have one. And I've got my eye on one. I just can't decide on the color...
Green
Or Red?
I'm leaning towards the green, but there is just something about the red!
The day after my birthday I came home to a tasty homemade birthday cake baked by my oldest! She even made the chocolate frosting on it, too! Super Yummy!!
On Monday I went shopping! :)
Don't you just love the store Anthropologie? I do. I first visited one in Birmingham years ago when I was there for a work conference. Fell in love immediately! Can I afford any of their clothes? No. Can I fit into any of their clothes? No. But I ADORE their housewares. I drool for long hours over their housewares. I signed up with their rewards program last year, and guess what? They sent me a cute card and a 15% off coupon for my birthday! So, guess what I did? I bought myself these:
They are measuring spoons, and aren't they just too stinkin' cute? I am in love with them.
I also found myself a cute pair of black flats on clearance at DSW... and with my DSW rewards check I got them for $8! Can't find a picture of them online, and I'm feeling too lazy to get up and just take a picture of them myself, but trust me... super cute!
So yes, my birthday was quite wonderful, and I feel very spoiled. And blessed. I guess turning #%&^$ isn't so bad when you get treated like that!
Monday, February 14, 2011
Valentine's Day
I may have posted this before, but I guess if I did it is worth repeating. Years ago when I was in YW, I heard a story about a lady who owned very beautiful things, but never let anyone use them. In fact, her family did not even know she owned them until after she died and they were cleaning out her things and found them. They supposed that she was waiting for a "special occasion" to use them, but never considered anything special enough. That always made me sad, and I remember talking my mom into using her "good" dishes and silverware for Sunday dinner that day! I also decided that I would never be like that, and even though I don't own any fine china, or real silver, I always use my best things on Valentine's Day with my family. We decorate the table, set out the goblets and best dishes, and lots of candles. Why not show the people that I love the most that they are worth my best?
As I said earlier, I've had so much fun decorating for Valentine's Day this year. I found another cute idea online Saturday (some fun L, O, V, E) blocks, and I knew I had to make some. I even had all necessary materials on-hand, so I dove right in. But, then I decided to mix it up a bit and make them my own, so what I finished with was nothing like what I started out thinking I was making.
Notice the candy dishes in the picture... totally empty! I couldn't afford to keep filling them up just to have the kids drain them within 24 hours.
Also on Saturday, I decided to make something fun for my Primary girls. I am blessed to be able to teach one of CTR 10 class... I have 8 adorable girls in the class! I made them some "love knot" hair clips. I think they liked them... at least no one told me that they didn't to my face! HA!
Years ago I started making a "red" dinner for Valentine's each year. We've had chili dogs, lazagna, red beans and rice, spaghetti... you get the idea. This year I was out of ideas, so I decided to just make one of Barry's favorite meals... meatloaf. Nothing fancy, but I had to throw a twist in there somewhere, so I added red food coloring to the water I cooked potatoes in, and we had pink mashed potatoes! Kind of fun! The girls all jumped in and helped me get dinner together this year; Kayti helped cook, Megan helped with the table. I forgot to take pictures of the table before we ate, but I did get a shot of it afterwards...
Josh actually had a date this year! First time ever I have not had one of my kiddos home for Valentine's Day... well, he was home for part of it (we actually ate before he left, but he didn't eat with us). He did make it home in time to dive into some dessert - brownie bites.
I am so thankful for my family, and the opportunity to have a special evening with them! Hope you had a great night, too!
As I said earlier, I've had so much fun decorating for Valentine's Day this year. I found another cute idea online Saturday (some fun L, O, V, E) blocks, and I knew I had to make some. I even had all necessary materials on-hand, so I dove right in. But, then I decided to mix it up a bit and make them my own, so what I finished with was nothing like what I started out thinking I was making.
Notice the candy dishes in the picture... totally empty! I couldn't afford to keep filling them up just to have the kids drain them within 24 hours.
Also on Saturday, I decided to make something fun for my Primary girls. I am blessed to be able to teach one of CTR 10 class... I have 8 adorable girls in the class! I made them some "love knot" hair clips. I think they liked them... at least no one told me that they didn't to my face! HA!
Years ago I started making a "red" dinner for Valentine's each year. We've had chili dogs, lazagna, red beans and rice, spaghetti... you get the idea. This year I was out of ideas, so I decided to just make one of Barry's favorite meals... meatloaf. Nothing fancy, but I had to throw a twist in there somewhere, so I added red food coloring to the water I cooked potatoes in, and we had pink mashed potatoes! Kind of fun! The girls all jumped in and helped me get dinner together this year; Kayti helped cook, Megan helped with the table. I forgot to take pictures of the table before we ate, but I did get a shot of it afterwards...
Josh actually had a date this year! First time ever I have not had one of my kiddos home for Valentine's Day... well, he was home for part of it (we actually ate before he left, but he didn't eat with us). He did make it home in time to dive into some dessert - brownie bites.
I am so thankful for my family, and the opportunity to have a special evening with them! Hope you had a great night, too!
Saturday, February 5, 2011
So fun!
I've had so much fun decorating for Valentine's Day this year! I have been playing with my new toy and cutting both paper and vinyl.
This has been a bit of a work in progress. I'll do a little, then think of or find something else that I think will look good, and add it. So, these pictures are bits and pieces of what I've done so far. I guess that I had better get it finished soon or I will miss having it done for Valentine's Day.
I really love decorating this window in the entryway each holiday.
I took this picture as soon as I got the candy in the dishes... and it pretty much disappeared right afterwards.
I added some red tulle... love it's festiveness. The hearts started out as one long garland, but I decided I liked this look better.
I love these half pint milk bottles. One of them comes from a creamery in Nashville where my Dad worked right after he and Mom married. Yep, not only has my daddy milked the cows, but he has delivered the milk as well!
I found that awesome red and black candle on clearance, and had to have it. It is just so much fun. The white one started out plain, but I jazzed it up with some vinyl.
While the kids where at church activities this week and I was killing time, I found this awesome vase/pitcher at Michaels... on sale!
And this awesome frame at Hobby Lobby... on sale, too! I have a mini subway art piece that I am going to put in the frame, just haven't got it there yet. Also, notice the candy... had to go buy more candy this week, and it's almost gone, too.
Hope you're getting your home ready to celebrate!!
This has been a bit of a work in progress. I'll do a little, then think of or find something else that I think will look good, and add it. So, these pictures are bits and pieces of what I've done so far. I guess that I had better get it finished soon or I will miss having it done for Valentine's Day.
I really love decorating this window in the entryway each holiday.
I took this picture as soon as I got the candy in the dishes... and it pretty much disappeared right afterwards.
I added some red tulle... love it's festiveness. The hearts started out as one long garland, but I decided I liked this look better.
I love these half pint milk bottles. One of them comes from a creamery in Nashville where my Dad worked right after he and Mom married. Yep, not only has my daddy milked the cows, but he has delivered the milk as well!
I found that awesome red and black candle on clearance, and had to have it. It is just so much fun. The white one started out plain, but I jazzed it up with some vinyl.
While the kids where at church activities this week and I was killing time, I found this awesome vase/pitcher at Michaels... on sale!
And this awesome frame at Hobby Lobby... on sale, too! I have a mini subway art piece that I am going to put in the frame, just haven't got it there yet. Also, notice the candy... had to go buy more candy this week, and it's almost gone, too.
Hope you're getting your home ready to celebrate!!
Saturday, January 29, 2011
So, what did you do with yourself on this absolutely beautiful 70-degree Saturday?
I had been thinking all week that Saturday would be my day to finish up some crafting projects and decorate my home for Valentine's Day. I apparently have a lot to make up for since I was sick last year on V Day and let things slide a bit (or so my daughter tells me). I also thought that I might do a little yard work, read some, work on my Primary lesson, and maybe even take a bit of time to just veg... or take a nap. I also felt a bit guilty about not going to see my parents in a while and thought I might go up to the farm for the day.
But, my friends, that did not happened.
I slept in a bit (ok... I can't sleep past 7:30, but considering the alarm goes off around 5:00 most mornings, that is sleeping in.) and then did read for a little bit. I fixed breakfast for Barry and the girls (the boys spent the night with their uncle last night), but really it was more like brunch by the time they woke up. Afterwards, we decided that we could not let this beautiful day pass any longer without being out in it. The boys got home, but since they had been up all night they headed straight for bed. The rest of us piled in the car and headed to Rainbow Mountain. We do enjoy taking walks in the woods, and I was looking forward to that. What I really wasn't expecting (since this actually was my first time there... sad, I know, after living here in Madison for 14 years now) was the hike that our walk turned into. Did we go prepared with water? No, we did not. Did my legs feel like jello, and my body scream for hydration when we finished? Yes, they did! Did I think to take a camera with me? Nope, didn't do that either. I know, I'm a LOSER! But, truthfully, I couldn't help but wonder as we walked hiked through the woods, if all this cardio was doing my heart and arteries good? You know, helping to lessen the effects of the 5-Guys burger I ate last night.
After our outing, we shopped a bit... window shopped, really... at Lowe's. I think everyone in or around Madison had that same idea today. Then my dear hubby treated us to a late lunch. I was VERY good and grabbed a salad. Then we walked around WalMart for a bit, and guess what? I grabbed a few things I needed to finish up one of those craft projects I mentioned earlier.
So, there you go... what we did on this beautiful, sunny, 70-degree Saturday. What did you do?
But, my friends, that did not happened.
I slept in a bit (ok... I can't sleep past 7:30, but considering the alarm goes off around 5:00 most mornings, that is sleeping in.) and then did read for a little bit. I fixed breakfast for Barry and the girls (the boys spent the night with their uncle last night), but really it was more like brunch by the time they woke up. Afterwards, we decided that we could not let this beautiful day pass any longer without being out in it. The boys got home, but since they had been up all night they headed straight for bed. The rest of us piled in the car and headed to Rainbow Mountain. We do enjoy taking walks in the woods, and I was looking forward to that. What I really wasn't expecting (since this actually was my first time there... sad, I know, after living here in Madison for 14 years now) was the hike that our walk turned into. Did we go prepared with water? No, we did not. Did my legs feel like jello, and my body scream for hydration when we finished? Yes, they did! Did I think to take a camera with me? Nope, didn't do that either. I know, I'm a LOSER! But, truthfully, I couldn't help but wonder as we walked hiked through the woods, if all this cardio was doing my heart and arteries good? You know, helping to lessen the effects of the 5-Guys burger I ate last night.
After our outing, we shopped a bit... window shopped, really... at Lowe's. I think everyone in or around Madison had that same idea today. Then my dear hubby treated us to a late lunch. I was VERY good and grabbed a salad. Then we walked around WalMart for a bit, and guess what? I grabbed a few things I needed to finish up one of those craft projects I mentioned earlier.
So, there you go... what we did on this beautiful, sunny, 70-degree Saturday. What did you do?
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