A Cajun Girl in Colorado

Ballet Recital

2012-01-24T21:53:00.008-07:00

Madeleine worked hard at her ballet all fall, and tonight was her recital. She was very blessed with an excellent teacher, and sweet friends in her class.

As you can see, some of her other friends came out to support her, and we were so happy and thankful.

Her teacher gave each student a rose at the end. I am so proud of my daughter!

Long, Lonely Winter Days

2012-01-23T20:07:00.008-07:00

Days around here can be long in winter, especially since we don't have the daily grind of getting up early, getting ready for school, getting to school, and getting home from school like most have. That, alone, can make a day go by faster, and in our case: slower.

Besides Tuesdays and Fridays, which are both rather busy with Bible Study (for all 3 of us girls) and Enrichment School (for our 1 girl), the other days can feel long.

I know it is only for a season. Soon March will be here, and with that will come soccer practice twice a week with a game another day that week - for one child, and a combo practice-game once a week for the other. Surely I will be wishing for the lonely days of winter in just a few months, having to drive to Golden so. many. times. a. week.

All that to say that I am thankful that friends can be found! Here are a few pics of recent play-dates we've had. God always provides, even in lonely winter, and for that I am thankful.

So...winter? Just two more months to go.

Love Lifted Me by Sara Evans & Rachel Hauck

2012-01-20T20:25:00.013-07:00

Love Lifted Me by Sara Evans and Rachel Hauck is a Christian fiction/romance/chick-lit 3rd-in-a-series book. It's a story about new mom of a toddler (Asa) and vintage-shop owner, Jade Benson, wanting to trust her formerly pain-pill-addicted husband again, after he's been away at rehab for 3 months. At rehab, Jade's hubby, Max, supposedly got his heart changed by Jesus, and from that now he wants to change their lives dramatically and in every way.

(photo from publisher)

This story was romantic and sweet, but quite predictable. I did enjoy the loving characters. Most were willing to ask forgiveness after a wrong-doing; I liked that although challenges and problems arose in the story, the authors quickly moved along, not dwelling too much on a negative subject. I also liked that Jade loved vintage clothes. I felt the love that flowed through the story, and the authors definitely pointed to Christ, which is always great.

Although I was eager to read this book, since Sara Evans was one of the authors, it, unfortunately, seemed just like every other Christian romance I've ever read; it gave me little that I didn't see coming. The book lightly entertained me in a very easy-reading sort of way, but it confirmed for me that I dislike this genre for a reason: it leaves originality to be desired. I knew from the beginning that all problems would be worked through in the end.

I can certainly recommend this book to the people who enjoy the genre of easy, predictable and sweet Christian fiction reading. This book definitely falls into that category.

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

A Grocery Cart is More Interesting

2012-01-20T19:21:00.003-07:00

Although I love talking about my books, I don't think anyone really cares, so here's a picture of Clara and Curious George in a grocery cart, coming out of Costco. Maybe that's a bit more interesting than the books I am reading (that, yes, thrill me).Besides church and a baby shower, my plans for the weekend also include a date with my hubby to organize the attic. Not gonna be fun, but very rewarding.

For now, I am off to finish that one book that I need to review...and I wish everyone a happy weekend.

Currently Reading Stack

2012-01-19T15:12:00.005-07:00

Just thought it was funny, as I sat down to read. I got my stack of "currently reading" books. There are 5 things in my stack for today:

1. My Bible + Study (Colossians) - first on my list to read
2. Love Lifted Me by Sara Evans & Rachel Hauck - trying to finish for a review, as I got it free in order to give a review
3. Give them Grace by Elyse Fitzpatrick - what I need to read to help with my parenting skills, as I want to be a godly parent
4. Good Queen Bess - Maddie's school biography that is interesting to me, since I never learned this much about Queen Elizabeth I
5. Park City by Ann Beattie - short stories that I'll read if I get done with everything else. I read about 1/3 of the book in college, but I want to be able to say I've read them all.

And of course I won't get done with more than three things on this list today. I read slowly, in order to absorb all thoughts, and it really takes a very, long time.

Better get started now!

Resolutions

2012-01-10T13:34:00.003-07:00

I had a successful year of changing my life in 2011, so I would like to add on a few new resolutions:
- Read 36 books this year. Just 3 a month. Quite do-able.

- Would like to lose 15-20 pounds this year. It's hard, but I need to do it.

- Continue to grow in Christ, allowing him to change my heart in many needed ways. (The spirit is willing but the flesh is weak.)

Can't wait to report at the end of the year if I was successful or not. Here's hoping!

Looking for Great Reads

2012-01-05T14:03:00.007-07:00

I just finished To Kill a Mockingbird last night. It was so, so good - just as good as A Tree Grows in Brooklyn. I do think those are two of my favorite books of all-time, and they are classics. Both of them have innocent and sweet children characters.

This is the edition that Ryan got me for Christmas.

I am wondering what are your favorite classics, and what are some of your favorite non-classics that you've read over the years. I am always looking for really good books to read, so please share! Also tell me why you like it/them so much. Would you, please?

Resolution Status from 2011

2011-12-29T19:15:00.007-07:00

I've been thinking about my last years' resolutions, how I accomplished or didn't accomplish them. Also thinking about resolutions for 2012.

Up until this year, I'd make a resolution and then forget it or not even make a resolution, but this year I kept them all in mind, until I either decided it was an unrealistic goal, or accomplished it. I am quite pleased at how I did this 2011. Here's what they were, and in green I've added how I did:

First Resolutions
One
Cutting out artificial sweeteners. I've been buying Blue Agave nectar and raw honey instead. They are so good. Success! I did well ditching artificial sweeteners. Due to some reading, it's either honey for me, or Stevie, which is natural.
Two
Ditching antiperspirants. (Since they're made with aluminum, which is not good for anyone's body let's face it.) I've been ignoring my knowledge of this ingredient for quite some time and enough is enough. I need to find a good-for-you deodorant, tho. This did NOT work for me. I tried it for a month or two, and I couldn't not smell - it was awful. I am back to my antiperspirant and appreciate smelling decent.
Three
Counting calories. Nope. I am never going to count calories. It is too much trouble. When I want to, I can portion control, but no counting calories for me.
Four
Eating more salads, fresh veggies, and lean proteins. Success! If you've followed my blog, you'll know I've been doing really well with this, at least compared to years prior. Lots of romaine and spinach in my fridge nearly at all times. I've even mostly given up meat and eat beans for protein.

Last Resolution
Five
I want to plan ahead this year. I've already started to think about the arrangements for Valentine's Day (hey, it's coming up!), as well as big plans for Thanksgiving (really far away, I know, but what I want to do will take plans). Success! Valentine's Day - all I remember was planning to take V-day pictures and get cards ordered in time to go out, and I did that. And my big goal for Thanksgiving was to meet up with my family (mom, dad, brother) for the holiday (I hadn't spent that day with them in 10 years at least), and I accomplished that! It was the best! See?

I will post in a few days what my 2012 resolutions are, so check back. :)

Christmas Pics

2011-12-29T08:51:00.005-07:00

Hope you all had a merry Christmas. Here are two pictures of our family on Christmas Day.

Wearing their Pajamas of the Year
(having just woken up)

Us two after Christmas dinner
(not right after we'd woken up, thank goodness!)

No, We Can't by Robert Stearns

2011-12-27T15:46:00.006-07:00

No, We Can't by Robert Stearns, is a book written to those - Americans mostly - who need to be educated on what's really going on in the world today.

In this book, Stearns educates those not already aware, that there are three main world-views in our world today: Radical Islam, Militant Secularism, and Judeo-Christianity. He tells about each world-view, and explains the goals of each, and what would be accomplished through the entire planet should each have its own way.

Although Stears educates throughout the majority of the book about the three world-views, his true intention of the book is to say that coexistence is a myth. He says it's a great idea, but it cannot work unless all world-views abide under one sovereign set of laws. Unfortunately, with two of the three world-views trying to dominate through bloodshed, coexistence is simply not possible.

This book held me captive for the time it took me to read it. It was very informative for me as an American. Stearns went around in a circle to get to the point, however, I got it. There was a sense of urgency as I read. Should be mandatory reading for those living in the West.

I received this book for free from Chosen Books in exchange for an honest review. Photo not my own.

Faith of a Child

2011-12-21T11:40:00.001-07:00

My first-born was taught right from the start that Santa Clause isn't real. And that God was. She believed me.

Well, my second child is told by her sister that Santa isn't real, but she doesn't really care - she believes anyhow. I've also told her that although there was a man long ago named Kris Kringle who gave gifts to children (not sure of the exact story here, but my best abridged version), he no longer lives, and Santa Clause is not real, just pretend. She hears me.

But yesterday at a restaurant, when walking by a real-looking Santa, Clara turned to me and said, "There's a real Santa Clause!"

We then let her sit on his lap, and he was a really kind grandpa, very sweet. He talked to her, asked her how old she was, and what she wanted for Christmas, and Clara did not know what to tell him. She's told me what she wishes for, but I don't think she was prepared for that question. She was so happy to be with a real Santa Clause that she didn't care about a gift.

I still think kids should know Santa isn't real and God is. I do believe that. They need to know we aren't lying to them about God's existence.

But I do love her child-like faith.

Reason

2011-12-19T10:45:00.007-07:00

All she wants for Christmas...

Still has hers...

Blurry

On the last Monday before Christmas 2011, we have a drizzling snow coming down - I almost missed it. No school for two weeks, at least that's the plan. A party coming up tomorrow, errands to run, and all the Christmas performances over. (My camera is so old that it doesn't snap in time anymore, so I didn't get great pictures of performances. Guess a new camera is in my future.)

Hope all are safe, warm, and happy this week before Christmas. May you have a blessed time with your family, and reflect on why Jesus had to be born...TO SAVE us FROM our SIN.

Glory to God! Thank you, Lord Jesus, for coming to save those who want to be.

I Stess Out When in Charge of Parties

2011-12-18T21:36:00.004-07:00

I was stressing out about our upcoming kids Christmas party at our house. I was stressing out because:

Our carpet is so, so stained and I really dislike it.
The girls could NOT find gifts to swap, and one was in tears.
I am not excited about the craft the kids would make. At all.
Could not think of a good snack to serve.
Greatly, I dislike 9 kids trying to squeeze into our teensy home, running up and down stairs, and not having enough place for them all to sit. :(
.........
Then I spot cleaned the carpet - super easy, and only one of my fingers is now raw.
Finally, the girls figured out what gifts to swap - with help from Dad and also me.
I sat down here, searched online for some simple games to play - instead of making an un-inspired craft (found two games that made me happy).
Realized I already have two great prizes to give out.
Thought: I don't have to bake cookies or give out candy - we will have fruits and veggies as our snack.
Have only easy shopping ahead of me tomorrow, not as much as I thought.
Furthermore realized I can be excited about this party.

Now I'm a happy mama, and all because I changed my mind on some things. This party will be all right....and so will I.

Just a Few Christmas Pics to Share

2011-12-09T18:33:00.006-07:00

Clara with a Nutcracker...(sound familiar?).
She is all about nutcrackers this year.

Look at that Hair

2011-12-09T10:32:00.003-07:00

Look at Clara's gorgeous, wavy hair - after taking out her braid. It is so long.

New Info to Me

2011-12-07T14:33:00.004-07:00

Now reading The Beauty Detox Solution by Kimberly Snyder, C.N. I've been following her blog, which has great info on it. So far in her book, I've seen how she came to have this beauty/health info - she traveled the world for 3 years.

I am only a quarter of the way through the book, but already I've learned something new. I have digestion issues, and Kimberly says that just by eating certain foods in the correct order helps health so much. She says digestion is really a true issue with the way average Americans consume food. For instance, think of spaghetti and meatballs. That meal is a starch with a protein. That is one of the digestion rule no-no's.

Her book lists 7 rules regarding the order of eating every kind of food (proteins, starches, fruits, veggies) called "Beauty Food Pairing." I'd list them here, but don't think I'm allowed to take it from the book.

I will be following these rules from now on. It totally makes sense with the reasons the book gives.

Thanksgiving Family Photo + Some Pilgrims

2011-11-29T19:20:00.004-07:00

Thanksgiving 2011 - Branson, MO

Some Pilgrims, made by Madeleine

The Grace Effect by Larry Taunton

2011-11-28T18:01:00.009-07:00

Just finished this very good book, The Grace Effect by Larry Taunton. It touched my heart so deeply - ask my mom, my brother, or my husband - I would not stop talking about it over Thanksgiving.
The Grace Effect is a nonfiction, thought-provoking story, combining the adoption process of an Ukranian orphan girl with an ongoing debate of whether or not Christianity brings about societal morality.

I was shown a vivid picture of a society without grace, wiped out of love, kindness, respect, unselfishness. That there is such a place where children have to grow up hurts so badly. I had never been shown such a picture before, at least one that I paid any attention to.

Larry Taunton educated me well on the failings of socialism, specifically in the Ukraine. He said the socialist leaders originally had good intentions. But what they failed to realize is that once you remove morality, which only comes about with the fear of God, - let's face it - you are left with nothing more than selfishness. You are left without grace.

This book makes an excellent warning to me, regarding my country's intentions on future government. I'll pass it around, to my neighbors and friends.

To find out more, go to The Grace Effect.

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

2011-11-26T17:08:00.003-07:00

Thanksgiving break, for us, has been glorious. Family we see only once or twice a year or so, rolling hills of the Ozarks, kind people, an adorable Pilgrim craft, delicious food, comfortable three-bedroom condo (for 7 people) - all equal a very happy time.

Plus, just within our church of less than 20 adults, the last two days have seen an engagement and a new baby born - and tomorrow will be our church's first baptism! Praise God for His grace and another soul's acceptance of the Gospel, free to all.

I'll be back mid-week, next week with pictures of this week, but for now, I am reading this book, doing laundry, and watching what will happen with two eBay items I have listed that are ending tonight. I have 5 watchers and two bids, and I'm hoping for more bids.

A biento!

Smile

2011-11-17T15:30:00.001-07:00

All the girls in the fam. :)

Our Journal of Super Lollipop's TIme with Us

2011-11-16T13:53:00.014-07:00

Today we sent Super Lollipop on his way to New York - with kisses and farewells. Here is our journal of his time with us:

One of the three postcards we pasted into the journal.

Hosting Super Lollipop

2011-11-14T09:22:00.006-07:00

Similar to Flat Stanley, Super Lollipop is a super hero male cat who travels around visiting home-school families in different states. He's just started his adventures from Louisiana last month (or so), and has been to Alaska, California, Texas and Colorado so far. He will be on his way to New York when he leaves our home.

My girls were thrilled when Super Lollipop got here! They have been sharing him since then, as there's only one of him and yet two children to play with him. The first night we had him, one of them asked who would get to sleep with Super Lollipop. I said no one could, so they fixed him a cozy little bed in a slipper, and he slept thru the night pretty well! (pictured above)

He has a red cape, to help him fly around and protect his friends, and while he travels in his box, he plays with a ball of yarn, which was so thoughtful for his home family to send with him.

We are so glad Super Lollipop could visit us for a few days!

PS Here's the journal of our time with him.

Mine

2011-11-11T20:24:00.004-07:00

For the third time since having our second child, my husband and I got a night to spend to ourselves. (The first time was our 7th anniversary, and the second time was A Weekend to Remember last November.)

This occasion just came upon us as a blessing...our niece Audrey had a sleepover birthday party and invited both our daughters to join her. I couldn't believe that her mom wanted little 3-yr-old Clara to sleep over as well, but she did, and Ryan and I got a night to ourselves. Aahh. It was heavenly. (Thanks so much, Jess!)

We went to a later-than-usual movie at 7:30 pm (we always have to get to ones at 6-ish in order to not be home too late for the babysitter), and then over to Applebee's for half-priced appetizers. We were starved by then (9:30pm?), and ordered each our own appetizer and one to share. We enjoyed all of it, then headed home for some rest without any children to worry about.

It certainly isn't a great picture of us (or of me at least), but at least it's something. I was rather exhausted by this point in my day, having driven to and from school several times that day for drop-off, pick-up, volunteer work, then driving 45 minutes to Audrey's house and 45 mins back. The picture shows my exhaustion, but I was happy in that moment. I love my sweet hunny, and am thrilled to have ended up with him after I thought he couldn't be mine, over 10 years ago. <3

Take It Away

2011-11-07T16:53:00.006-07:00

Not much to report. Just been studying the end of Daniel (chapters 10 & 11) for Bible study. Fascinating stuff.

Also, just started Catfish Alley - that is, after reading another story set in the South, Mississippi and Louisiana to specify: The Beach Trees, which was good - especially because of the familiar setting. But so is Catfish Alley.

*photo not my work

So just reading. And eating Halloween candy.

Yes I'm doing great on my healthy food. Great, really and truly. But I gotta get this Halloween candy out of my house fast; it is gaining me some weight. Somebody come and take it away.

Hope everyone is enjoying November. I love the changing months, just never get over it.

Just Like the Rest of Life

2011-11-03T19:09:00.014-06:00

I'm very sad that my dear, precious October has left us. We had one decent snowfall that month, and right after the sun melted the snow all away, we were left with this:

I have never - in the 8 years I've lived here - seen so many leaves in my front yard, scattered even into the parking lot.

Also in October, the children dressed up. Madeleine was a winged Purple Unicorn, and Clara was a Strawberry Fairy. Here I am behind (or in front of) the camera, enjoying my children.

At Trick or Treat Street

Still at Trick or Treat Street

At a friend's house, getting ready to go out...

Eating a Pumpkin Sugar Cookie

Us Girls

Oh, and both girls collected a basket of candy. They ate a bit of it, and then we traded it (the candy) for money ($1 per pound) at our family dentist's office. They were happy to send it to hard-working soldiers, and I was happy to stop reminding them to go and brush their teeth.

Ballet Pumpkin

2011-10-31T12:20:00.002-06:00

At M's school there was a pumpkin dress-up contest. We dressed Madeleine's pumpkin up like a ballerina - a cold ballerina. See? She has mittens on....she didn't win. A pair of Angry Birds pumpkins won - very creative.

Our Tradition - Painting Pumpkins

2011-10-27T10:44:00.004-06:00

Oh, it's the 4th or 5th year we've painted instead of carved our girls' pumpkins. So much easier and just as fun. And we'll dress up another pumpkin here in a minute for my oldest's school's pumpkin contest tomorrow. Hope she wins!

Here They Are

2011-10-24T09:19:00.002-06:00

At the Denver Zoo. Polar Bear Exhibit.
And some shadows.

A Pile of Leaves

2011-10-22T14:53:00.010-06:00

Two Sisters. Four Falls.

2011-10-21T13:29:00.004-06:00

Fall 2008

Fall 2009

Fall 2010

Fall 2011

Those Were the Days When I Still Had a Baby

2011-10-20T17:56:00.002-06:00

Just came across an old pic that cracks me up - Clara and her pal Elijah (and all their sisters) sitting in Bumbos! Those were the days. Babies grow up way too fast.

11/20/08

Some Changes

2011-10-20T08:37:00.009-06:00

October is flying by, along with the falling leaves.

Here are some changes that have happened during this month.

Ryan and I got new bedroom furniture. These are words of rejoicing, as we've lived with mis-matched bedroom furniture for over 9 years now, and we are enjoying our sleigh bed and nice-and-roomy dressers. Our bedroom is not complete yet. It's actually a huge mess, as we are in the process of cleaning/organizing the attic, and we need a new desk up here, and some sort of nightstand/shelf, but still, we have some matching furniture!

That white spot you see on the foot-board,
is from the camera...

See? No spot.

Oh, and for some reason, any furniture that we've ever bought has always come with some sort of time issue. This bed was not an exception. It came without some of the hardware, as well as the bed slats, so we slept on our mattress on the floor for half a week while we waited for the store to get the things we needed in stock.

Also, we've gone without a kitchen light for at least two weeks. Maybe three, as I stopped counting the days. Again, we bought the light we needed two nights ago, and it also came with a problem. Of course we got it in the evening, so Ryan had to wait till the next day to go and get help. It's all set up now, and it's great to have kitchen light!

And not only do we have attic bins strewn around the house (on the fireplace, top of the stairs, upstairs hallway and in our bedroom), but we also have a matching nightstand and armoire, as well as another dresser (remember they don't match) sitting in our living room - that won't sell. I am about ready to give 'em away. But a few more days of trying before I come to that. I think.

Hope you all enjoy the last 11 days left of October - the most beautiful month of the year!

Our Fall Craft

2011-10-13T10:57:00.006-06:00

My editing software isn't currently working, so please bear with this photo! The top photo is mine, the original. :) The bottom left is Madeleine's, and the bottom right is Clara's. Clara wanted to add another branch to her tree and another owl. After she colored over the owl's eyes, she said "he can't see!" I don't know why she did that, but it's now a blind owl.
Also, isn't Madeleine's owl really cute?

I'm so very much enjoying fall! Are you?

Getting Back to Clear Skin + More

2011-10-11T18:19:00.005-06:00

Back to basics for me.

As of today, I'll be working hard to get my clear skin back (that I had for a limited time). Glowing Green Smoothies will be my go-to breakfasts. Research shows dark green and orange veggies are great for clear skin. Don't forget high quality fish oils, almonds, zinc, green tea and water will also assist for clear skin.

Here's an article on energy without caffeine.

Here's one on how coffee isn't a beauty drink. Sad, I know. Plus, I just feel sick after I enjoy coffee. Very, very sad.

And go here for some interesting thoughts on one-day cleanses.

Enjoy a wealth of possibly new-to-you info.

Books'n Such

2011-10-06T19:53:00.009-06:00

Just started on this book:
Feeling better, as for the cold, but now I'm all stuffed up.

Madeleine has broken out in hives twice in the last two days. We think the pumpkin seeds did it.

I got my house back in order today. So glad M's piano teacher comes to our house for lessons, and has a crawling baby. Made me tidy up all the pumpkins sitting in the living room (from our trip to the farm) and mop. Very needed.

I'm really glad tomorrow's Friday, and even more glad it got cool this evening. The winds came and brought cool temps with it. It's been quite the Indian summer so far.

Happy Fall!

*image not my own

Even Snoopy's Enjoying Fall

2011-10-05T11:47:00.002-06:00

Happy Wednesday!

October's Harvest

2011-10-04T19:51:00.008-06:00

It's October! And it's already the 4th - slow down, October. You are my favorite month, and I want you to last a long, long time.

I have a cold. It's not the worst one, but it's making me just want to sleep. I have fought it a little, but I've been kinda busy to really fight it much. Tomorrow I plan to rest up and have more hot tea and such.

My family and some of my in-laws went to a local (an hour away) farm to pick lotsa fresh veggies. It was super cheap at just $10 per person, since we had a group of 10, and we fit under the homeschooling category. Each person was allowed 5 grocery bags of produce to take home. Beaucoup cheap, right?

Pretty Peppers

So we picked yesterday, came home last night - super exhausted - and had to wash them. We managed to wash the necessities, then got to work peeling and chopping. I still have onions, beets and pumpkins sitting around with dirt on them.

my girls with some of their cousins

Today, my sister-in-law canned half of my potatoes for me. Some of her children even helped us peel and chop - big shout out to them! I hope my girls turn out half as good as her teenagers have turned out. Praise God for them. What a beautiful example of obedient and godly children on their way to healthy adults.

carrots

with my sister-in-law

Oh, and here's a list of the veggies we got yesterday: onions - white, yellow and red; green beans, carrots, celery, cabbage, potatoes, beets, corn, Indian corn, pumpkins, okra, and peppers. We've already eaten some corn on the cob and mashed some potatoes.

I am thankful for God's provision and also for family members that are willing to spend their day teaching and helping me. Truly, thank you.

'What Came First'

2011-09-29T10:21:00.005-06:00

I had the privilege of reading a book before it's publication.

What Came First, by Carol Snow, author of my favorite Here Today, Gone to Maui, is the story of the lives of three women and their families, or lack thereof. It is about motherhood. And children. And longing: longing for a child, longing for another child, or longing for a better-behaved child. It's also about love.

Mostly, it's just full of the details of life that we all enjoy reading about so much.

I loved it. For me, it ties for first place with Here Today, out of the five adult Carol Snow books. One of the best books I've read this year, and I read all the time.

It will be available October 4th, so look for it, and read it.

*image not my own

Exhaustion

2011-09-23T20:30:00.001-06:00

After a very long day in the car - and at our option school - and at the park for soccer practice + one game, as well as shopping and very little eating, we are home, and I'm wiped. I was going to get closer to finishing my second Richard Russo book (That Old Cape Magic), but now I just want to either sit and stare at nothing, or else close my eyes.

The girls are in the bath, and will soon be in bed, and Ryan is still at work. It's that kind of a Friday.

At least tomorrow will bring some sort of rest, and it definitely won't be like today.

Regardless, Happy Fall 2011, everyone!

Goodbye, Summer

2011-09-22T21:32:00.003-06:00

Very upsetting to some, quite anticipated for others. Either way, tonight we must officially say goodbye to summer.

A Craft and the Letter C

2011-09-21T20:50:00.003-06:00

Today Madeleine had some leftover pieces of construction paper, so she did a craft with Clara. I am loving it that she is old enough to now teach her sister real things. Madeleine put the glue on each spot and told Clara to add each leaf. Then the owl was added later. Here you can see the end result:

After the "fall tree" craft - that's what it was called - Clara learned to draw a pumpkin - all by herself - that you can see here. Then she drew a letter C. When she showed me, I told her to go and finish writing her name (she's been working on writing the letters in her name for a while now). When she came back, she'd written all the letters in her name, in order, and except that she'd added an extra R, it was right on. This was the first time she'd written it out on her own, so I gave her a high-five, and so did Madeleine. We are so proud of her new skill.

Clara also points out the letter C anytime that she sees it written, no matter where we are. We have a neighbor named Christy, and once she told Clara that her name starts with the letter C also, and now Clara will say, "There's a C for Clara and Christy!"

So, tomorrow is the last day of summer, technically. The leaves in our front yard have brown edges I noticed just today. And one of our neighbors has three pumpkins sitting on his doorstep. Guess I'm not the only one anticipating fall around here.

September Randoms

2011-09-15T16:54:00.007-06:00

1. I'm enjoying the Bible study I am attending. We are studying the book of Daniel, and although I remember the story quite well from my childhood days, I have never truly studied it, and it's a prophetic book.

When I heard it talks about the still-to-come future, I was so excited to learn about that. I've read Revelation many times, but it's a lot to take in. I think Daniel is going to be a bit easier to follow. We've gone up to the point where Daniel gives and interprets the King's dream and gets promoted. I am really loving to learn the facts behind the pictures, ie the described image of the huge man of metals = 5 powerful Kingdoms over time. The rock that destroys the huge statue = God's Kingdom that crushes all the early kingdoms and reigns forever. So glad to be studying God's word.

2. My girls and I made new friends today at the park, and the family lives near us and homeschools, too. I am very glad to be making new friends on this journey, as life keeps changing on me. I keep adjusting to the changes in life, friends coming and then going, but it's always good to make new ones to fill in the empty holes of former friends. I am sure you know how that is. I've noticed it happens every year with the changes life makes for us, as kids grow up, and life moves on.

3. Just finished reading The Lost Hours and was intrigued. It was not predictable, and I applaud it for that. It's great to find authors that break out of the traditional book mold. Now I'm almost done with Heaven is for Real, which has made me cry throughout, and just be amazed. If the book is true, God has allowed this little boy in the story to be able to share some of God's own glory with the world. Praise Him! Of course it's possible that it didn't really happen, but I am almost done with it and haven't found anything contradictory to what the Bible says about Heaven so far.

4. Enjoy the last days of "summer" - one week technically left.

A Movie Outing

2011-09-08T10:18:00.003-06:00

Last night I was able to attend The Help with Chastity.

I had already started reading the book (about one or two chapters in), but I was dying to see the movie. It was how I thought it'd be - delightful, funny, and of course - sad, as how could it not be with the racial thing? God created us all equal.

Also, the movie was a little too close to home, as I'm from Louisiana and have lived in Mississippi as well. I am just glad Mississippi is no longer like that.

On another note, look at how we're dressed - it was a chilly evening!

Enjoying All Today is Offering

2011-09-07T11:08:00.003-06:00

With 15 days of summer technically left, I've decided I'll almost forget all about my countdown, as the weather here in Denver has been moving on to fall weather. I've been forced to break out the fall clothes, and dress my girls in them several times already. You know I am loving it.

We woke up to a very overcast day today, the kind of day where you contemplate going back under the sheets and continue your night's sleep. But I got up and on with my day, as I should. I started school with my student, and after a lot of learning, we decided a break was in order. My girls are playing together in their room right now, with ponies. They cherish their play time when school is going on, it's quite funny how that works.

And, although I say no to coffee most of these days, just to feel healthier - today is definitely a coffee day, so I made myself a cup.

I'm just enjoying all today is offering me. And praising God for it, too.

Fall Clothes are Out

2011-09-03T19:19:00.005-06:00

Oops, had to break out the fall clothes today- September 3rd - much earlier than expected. As Madeleine said, "It's the first cold day of summer!"

I really thought it'd be a while before we felt like wearing long pants and socks, but today we needed 'em.

I enjoyed reading a book and doing my Bible study on the couch with my comfy pants and socks on. Madeleine was playing outside in her summer clothes, and had to come inside and change. Then Clara did the same after her nap. Ryan kept his shorts and short-sleeved shirt, but you can't count him.

Nineteen days of summer left!

First Day of 2nd Grade

2011-08-29T08:30:00.005-06:00

We are starting our fourth week of home-school, but this photo was taken last week on Madeleine's first day of 2nd grade at the extra school she goes to once a week. Of course little sis had to be in the pic. :D And yes, she does look more excited than big sis.

Countdown to Fall 2011

2011-08-27T17:27:00.003-06:00

Twenty-seven days of summer left for 2011. How are you spending the next 4 weeks?

My family and I just went camping this weekend (just one night) with some friends. We nearly froze to death at night, but during the day temperatures normalised. There were 6 kids in all and 4 adults. We had great food over and around the camp-fire (special thanks to the men for chopping wood for it!), and the kids roamed the woody parts happily.

Also, my kiddos and I just might be able to pack in one more trip to the beach, er the lake this coming week. We'll see if we make it over. Clara is dying to use her new shovel and pail she won as a prize from the library.

I think we are definitely tired of our summer clothes and ready for a change. Just less than 4 weeks and I'll unpack the new fall items. I can't wait.

Wedges

2011-08-24T15:15:00.006-06:00

It's been a long time since I've worn heels. I used to wear them all the time, but stopped in the last few years. Those few inches are missed, and my husband even said something the other day about me not wearing heels anymore. I knew what that meant - time to buy some new shoes!

I made about $30 at a yard sale this past weekend so I could justify buying the shoes I wanted, which were $25. Since Payless has the BOGO sale going currently, I got two pairs. I am excited to wear them - hope I don't fall down!

Aren't they cute?

Oh, and anyone who knows me knows that I love Payless. I always go there first when the girls need a new pair of shoes. They even have ballet slippers, which Madeleine needed for this fall, as well. We bought two pairs for me, ballet slippers and two pairs of tights for Madeleine, and some brown Mary Janes for Clara. I'd say it was a good haul!

*Photo borrowed from Payless.

30 Days of Summer, Countdown to Fall

2011-08-24T14:31:00.006-06:00

There are 30 days left of summer, which means that 31 days from today we'll be in the season of fall! Yes, yes, yes!

a squirrel eating our pumpkin, last year

I love to look forward to fall. It is one of my favorite things in the year, and I don't mean just one of my favorite seasons, but one of the things to think about that makes me feel happy.

Every year I write another post about what I am looking forward to about fall, and here's this year's list:

1. Pumpkins - lattes, rolls, & patches
2. Long-sleeved weather, including new-to-us clothes for my children
3. Rustling leaves
4. Getting dark early
5. Making [and eating] gumbo
6. Fireplace fire
7. Costume dress-up/candy/trick-or-treaters at my door (if I'm home)
8. New coats (I need one this year!)
9. Watching a neighborhood squirrel devour my doorstep pumpkin
10. Wearing scarves

I love everything about fall, as far as I know! To me, it is romantic. Ahhh.

Don't worry - I am still enjoying our very short hot season here in Colorado (by sweating - ha!, wearing shorts + sandals, drinking iced tea more than normal, and swimming!), but I am most definitely looking forward to fall starting Sept. 23rd. Please join me, as I count down the remaining days of summer!

Cherry-Banana Green Smoothies

2011-08-21T19:59:00.006-06:00

The other day at Costco I put a bag of frozen cherries into my cart to try it out in smoothies. Well, it won't be the last time I put them into my cart. My family and I are loving cherry-banana smoothies right now.

Smoothies help me get my fruit in fast during the day. Honestly I don't enjoy eating a banana. I don't enjoy eating an apple. I am not a fruit person, so if I can stick several fruits into a blender and drink them all together, I'll do it. And it's really yummy for me that way.

Most of you have probably heard of green smoothies, well it's a brilliant idea. When you're making a smoothie, simply stuff as much fresh baby spinach as you can into your blender. The spinach taste is so mild, it'll blend right in. You'll be eating leafy greens and not even know it.

My basic Cherry-Banana Smoothie recipe is:

1-2 bananas
1 cup of frozen cherries
1 or 2 handfuls of baby spinach
1/2 cup water
1 Tbsp flax seeds
*optional - 1 lemon

Blend all together and enjoy eating well.

Digital Scrapbooking Giveaway (Ends Aug 20th, midnight, MST)

2011-08-20T20:43:00.002-06:00

Check out this giveaway that ends tonight (Aug. 20th) at midnight, MST. It's to win some digital scrapbooking!

Enter for your chance to win some software (a $40 value)!

Stretching and Protein

2011-08-19T20:10:00.007-06:00

It's been a long week, and yet it's not over.

This week I, of course, wanted to get a week of school done, but the past three days alone I've either felt awful and tried to rest, driven madly around the Denver area going to co-op school registration, co-op school orientation, and a medical physical, or dragged things down from the attic, priced said items, had yard sale, and shopped for a wedding gift. I can't even remember what I did on the other week days.

I am disappointed in the lack of school days this week, however things will slow down soon enough, and we'll have a great schedule down. Plus, these things that happened this week don't happen more than once a year for us.

The good news from my physical are that some of the symptoms I've been suffering with this past week (eye strain/headaches and sudden arm numbness), are not due to pre-diabetes as I suspected. The doctor thinks the eye strain and arm numbness are most likely due to cramped nerves in my neck/shoulder area and should improve with good stretching.

Besides the above issues, I've also had occasional blurred vision, which worsened this week. The doctor thinks it is possibly due to a blood sugar issue, which should be helped with more protein in my diet. That's quite an easy fix, and I am more than a bit relieved about that.

Now the yard sale is half-done (I made a few bucks!), everything for the school co-op is taken care of (relief!), the wedding gift was purchased (it's great!), and I now know how to help myself to feel better (thank God!).

One more busy day + church on Sunday morning and I'll have some real rest. That, I am looking forward to. That and stretching.

Spending Money

2011-08-17T17:14:00.010-06:00

Yesterday, someone bought Clara's potty for $15, and I gave the money to her to spend. I could have kept it for myself, I know, but I thought giving her the money would make her more proud to have made the right decision, which is, to move on from the little potty to the regular-sized one. Here she is, above, with her newly-earned money.

She begged me to take her to the store last night, and I did since I had to run errands anyway. After seeing the Kohl's toy selection, she hung her head and said I just can't choose! multiple times. Then today, getting groceries at Target, we again went shopping for a toy, and again I just can't choose!

After Target, it hit me to take her to Once Upon a Child (OUAC) and see what used toys they had there, and we hit the jackpot! Instead of $25 for a brand new LalaLoopsy doll at Target (which she couldn't afford), Clara spent $5.50 for a used one at OUAC. (Madeleine bought one, too, with her money - there were only two there, btw.) And, she had money left over to buy another toy from OUAC, which is a cash register, as you can see in the picture below.

Not only was she thrilled at her fantastic deals, but so was I! Shopping for toys in general is special fun - especially with money in hand, but finding such a deal is even better.

I do hope the little potty will not be missed.

Eat to Live Journey + 6-Week Plan

2011-08-15T09:42:00.010-06:00

I've been on a plant-based eating journey these last several months. It all started in March 2001 when I went to see an ND to help with some weight and health issues.

Ever since then, I've been taking care of myself a ton better. I do have those times of self-sabotage. I do. But after said moments, I pick myself up, eat well the next day, and I'm back to better health.

To date, I've lost 16 pounds. I lost about 4 pounds just from the switch-over, and then 12 more pounds so easily, in little over a month's time. At that number on my scale I decided to stay, for a while - to give myself a break. Right now I am eating well but not a ton less, and it really is time to start losing some weight again.

So, what do I eat? It's pretty basic: salads (romaine, spinach) with beans etc., soups (tomato basil, sweet potato & ginger, spinach & veggie), rice krispies w/ rice milk + sliced almonds, fruit smoothies + flax, sautéed veggies +quinoa, lots of beans + rice (or quinoa), and [healthy] peanut butter sandwiches on whole wheat.

The rice krispies aren't part of the plan, but it's a simple go-to breakfast or snack for when I feel like something a bit off the plan that's not too horrible. I can also have all the decaf green tea that I want, so I make it with stevia and pour it over ice.

I'm trying to follow more of the Eat to Live book, or rather, this website. Check out the 6-Week Plan - it's how I lost those 12 pounds so fast. I feel so much better already.

More Learning

2011-08-11T20:52:00.005-06:00

Even though summer has about a month left to go, it seems like we're already saying goodbye to it. Most kids are already starting back to school around here, as well as us. I started Madeleine in second grade this past Monday. It has gone well so far, and know it's going to be another great year of learning!

I am even teaching little Clara the letters of her name on a dry-erase board - all we've tried so far is letter C, but she practices it a lot, and is so proud to be learning her letters!

Also, my mom bought each of the girls their own Highlight subscription, so I was able to read Clara's magazine with her today for school, in addition to her letters. She loved finding the hidden pictures, and seeing which items looked the same and which were a tiny bit different.

Madeleine seems so much older this year from last year. I mean, she technically is, but also this year she will learn to type! She does a typing course by herself on the computer - as well as Spanish (her dad helps her with the latter). It is a bit of a help that I don't have to deal with these two subjects really at all, and she still learns. Love those blessings!

Here's to the new school year!

One Farewell to Summer

2011-08-11T19:40:00.006-06:00

As one of our farewells to summer, we visited Golden's The Splash this evening for some water play. We packed everything into two hours, since we saved about $20 by not coming until 4:30pm.

All we needed was two hours anyway - there's not that much to do there that we haven't been doing all summer long. For instance, we've gone to three different splash pads over and over this summer, we've played in our local lake's sandy "beach," and swam at our neighborhood pool. That only leaves water slides that we haven't had access to, so we quite enjoyed those!

As you can see in the first picture, there's a huge bucket that fills with water every 3 minutes or so, and then dumps! We girls avoided this bucket at all costs! Ryan, on the other hand, enjoyed his shower. Madeleine slid down the large tube water slide quite a few times; Ryan and I took turns sliding after her. Little Clara still was not brave enough to go down the bigger kiddie slide, maybe next year, but she, of course, enjoyed the toddler slide.

My favorite part was sliding down the body slide, and looking up at the gorgeous foothills surrounding the water park - what a blessed place to live!

And we have a winner!

2011-08-09T13:52:00.010-06:00

And the give-away winner is...

Congratulations, Joslynn! You get to choose two items from Podgie Modgies Etsy shop! You now need to contact Podgie Modgies' Etsy shop, and message them with the two hair accessories that you choose as the give-away winner.

Big thanks to everyone who entered! I received 31 entries, and I couldn't have gotten them without all of you! With you, I exceeded my goal!

Don't forget that Podgie Modgies has offered my readers 15% off their first purchase from Podgie Modgies' Etsy shop! Please mention GET15OFF in the coupon code box at check-out. Definitely take advantage of that if there were one or several items you really wanted from Podgie Modgies!

Happy Tuesday, all!

Hurry to Enter the Giveaway - Expires at Midnight

2011-08-08T20:38:00.006-06:00

Only 3 hours (and a few minutes) left to enter the give-away to win two adorable hand-made girls' hair accessories from Podgie Modgies Etsy shop!

These hair accessories are gorgeous! Please go and enter to win, if you haven't already! I need 4 more entries to make my personal goal of 30 entries. That is huge for me.

*photo borrowed from Podgie Modgies

Enter the giveaway here, and hurry! Time runs out midnight, MST, tonight Aug. 8th.

Good luck!

Girls' Hair Accessories Give-Away! (Expired 8/8/11)

2011-08-02T15:17:00.031-06:00

***The winner has been announced here. Thanks again to all who participated! Don't forget to use code GET15OFF for 15% off your first order at Podgie Modgies!***

Please welcome Podgie Modgies - a new Etsy shop!

Podgie Modgies, AKA Blossoms & Bows, offers Hair Bows, Fabric Flowers, + Ribbon Flowers, as well as Memory Boxes and Decorative Letters. Here are a few of my favorite hair accessories from the shop...

*all photos borrowed from Podgie Modgies

Having two little girlies of my own, I am always looking for another creative hair accessory, and I've found another place to get them at Podgie Modgies. Look at what I bought Clara for her latest birthday...I just love it!

I wanted to help this Etsy business get going, thus the give-away here. Here's how this'll work. Podgie Modgies is giving away two hair accessories (of your choice) to the give-away winner that will be randomly drawn at the end of the give-away.

To attempt to win this give-away from Podgie Modgies:

1. Leave a comment on this post telling me what your favorite item is from the shop. Also, you MUST leave me your email address (and name) for me to contact you if you win!

2. Blog or Facebook this give-away, and leave each separate link in the comment section, along with your email address (and name).

If you do all of the above mentioned, you will up your chances to win with each comment.

The give-away will end at midnight, Monday, August 8th, MST, and the winner will be announced sometime on Tuesday morning.

Sorry, Podgie Modgies will ship only to US addresses.

So go and check out Podgie Modgies' shop! And good luck!

***To further promote Podgie Modgies, please mention GET15OFF in the coupon code box at check-out to receive 15% off your 1st purchase at Podgie Modgies.***

Small Things

2011-07-25T14:51:00.006-06:00

It's such a beautiful, hot summer day. I spent the morning with my daughters, running errands.

We had two coupons to redeem at Barnes & Noble. One was for the summer reading program for Madeleine - she chose a free book, just for reading 8 books this summer. I'm still amazed that she reads about 8 books every few days. I cannot keep up with her reading, it's amazing!

The other coupon was for a free cupcake or cookie from the Starbucks inside B&N - Clara chose a cookie. This was from the B&N Kids Club - and for her birthday.

Without a coupon I ordered a small iced coffee with soy milk. I hadn't had a coffee in way too long, since I feel better when I don't drink coffee, but every once in a while is worth it. I am not a fan of soy milk, but after breaking out a bit lately from not strictly avoiding dairy, I know I must really avoid it. I paid 50 cents extra for soy instead of cream - way too much, but again worth it. I greatly enjoyed my iced coffee, as we all sat together at our small table.

We ran other errands, too, but this was our favorite. Hope you're enjoying the small things of summer also!

For Our Mothers (Clara's 3rd Birthday Party)

2011-07-19T09:29:00.012-06:00

This post is for my mom and Ryan's mom, especially - although it's for any reader, of course! Both of our moms live far away from us, so this is my way of sharing Clara's birthday with them, since they couldn't be here for it.

Clara tasting her Owl Cake.

Owl Goodie Bags!

I drew the boy and girl owls by hand (looked at another picture for help), Ryan scanned it into the computer and printed lots of copies, then Madeleine and I colored each one!

Me with the birthday girl!

Daddy with the birthday girl!

The birthday girl!

Our family!

Clara invited many of her good friends to her birthday party. We are thankful for such good friends in our lives to share the special times.

Our Trip to SW Colorado

2011-07-02T21:24:00.006-06:00

Yesterday, right after hiking Hanging Lake, Madeleine's second baby tooth came out! Then we drove home...from our trip to SW Colorado.

Our trip in a nutshell:
-Four hours from home to the Great Sand Dunes. Spent two nights in a KOA cabin. Visited the sand dunes twice, hiked up to Zapata Falls once, which was a fairly easy hike, ate in a really yummy Mexican restaurant.

- Four more hours from there to Mesa Verde. Spent another two nights in another KOA cabin. Explored two different ruins at Mesa Verde, and swam at our lovely KOA pool.

- On our way home, we broke up our trip with a stop at Hanging Lake (a difficult and seemingly never-ending hike), about 4 hours from Mesa Verde. We did, in fact, reach the top (1.2 miles uphill), and I cried at that point. It took forever with a two-year old, who did not have a nap that day, and I just couldn't believe we'd finally made it up, it was that long!

- Another 3 hours after our hike and we reached home at 10pm, where I washed sheets before going to bed at midnight.

I love learning about this beautiful state of Colorado. There is so much to explore! Even more next year...

And It's Out - First Baby Tooth!

2011-06-13T18:36:00.004-06:00

That was fast! Last night before bed, Maddie discovered a new tooth coming in - on a second row - and this evening after dinner, the baby tooth in front of it came right out! Congratulations to my Madeleine at the loss of her first tooth while she is still 6!

And We Have a Shark Tooth

2011-06-13T12:52:00.004-06:00

Last night, Madeleine noticed there was something else growing inside her mouth. She was a little freaked out by it, but it happened to be just a new tooth coming in before the baby tooth fell out.

I would have been just as freaked, except I'd seen this happen to one other of her friends (although I can't remember which one).

Today, the baby tooth in front of the new tooth is extremely loose. It went from not being loose at all, to almost falling out. I'm sure that's b/c of the new tooth's doing. We haven't lost it yet, but I do think it'll be within the next day or two.

This will be the first tooth Maddie will lose. It's exciting stuff!

Yard Sale Finds

2011-06-11T21:15:00.004-06:00

This morning, my daughters and I went to a neighborhood yard sale. Unfortunately for us, there was not much left over from Friday. Yet, it was still fun to take a walk together, look around at things, and talk to the people [and their dogs] that lived there.

I spent a grand total of $3. I know, not very much.

$ .50 for the basket
$ .50 for two small toys
$1.00 for a dress, size Medium, which I don't fit into - on purpose
$1.00 for a two-piece Old Navy outfit, 24 mos
FREE: two separate baby shape toys

The dress is incentive for me to keep losing weight. The basket is to hold my bread, onions, and garlic in the kitchen. The toys were for my girlies; the outfit's for Clara, and the donated toys are for our church nursery. Sweet, right?

Not a huge splurge at the yard sales, but we had a good time, and new stuff is always fun to look at and play around with!

Hiking!

2011-06-11T20:30:00.006-06:00

My family has been on a roll with hiking. Our plan is to hike every Sunday morning that we're able to. Since we now attend a church that meets at 4pm, our Sunday mornings are freed up for the first time in any of our lives!

So far, we've only gone 3 times, but it's a good start. You can see the famous Red Rocks in these photos from Red Rocks Park. That's me resting while the girls ran down to take the above photo next to the rocks.

Summer Jump-Start

2011-06-10T23:37:00.013-06:00

We jump-started our summer by leaving mid-May for a little family get-away.

Drove down to Tulsa (12 hours from Denver) to see my husband's parent+ sister, then over 3 more hours to Branson, MO to meet up with my parents + brother.
In Tulsa, we rested at my in-laws' home quite a bit, but we also went out to Incredible Pizza for some game time (similar to Chuck E. Cheese). On our way to Branson, we stopped in Springfield, MO for a little aquarium/alligator time at the Bass Pro Shop, as well as some throwed rolls at Lambert's Cafe! [Btw, my hubby & I are proud to say we've been to 2 of the 3 Lambert's Cafes, as there's another one in Springfield (doesn't make any sense to me), and also one in Foley, Alabama, which we've been to since it's near our Alma mater.]
After goodbyes in Springfield, we left Ryan's family and drove the last hour to Branson, where we said hello to my family! A few of the things we did in Branson include: Sight & Sound's Noah - the Musical, Ride the Ducks, Showboat Branson Belle, The Track, and White Water water park. Also, we were there during the horrible tornadoes that Joplin got.

We're so thankful to be able to catch up with family every once in a while, as we are so far away from them both. And also glad our trip was a safe one. What a way to jump-start our summer!

If You've Been Wanting...

2011-06-08T19:38:00.004-06:00

...a health update:

1. Still overweight.
2. Acne is GONE!

Now working on problem #1, as well as a few new issues. Ah! It'll all be worth it in the end, though. Good food is medicine. It's simply how God made it to be.

"And God said, “See, I have given you every herb that yields seed which is on the face of all the earth, and every tree whose fruit yields seed; to you it shall be for food."
Genesis 1:29 NKJV

Last Day of First Grade

2011-05-27T20:12:00.005-06:00

Last day of First Grade

We still have a few loose ends to tie up to completely finish first grade, but for the most part (95%), we are done, done done! How great it feels to be done!

Today was Madeleine's last day of first grade at her Friday school! She will miss it during the summer, as she looked forward to it every week, and made lots of good friends.

Also today, her drama class performed two plays for all the parents, and I must say that my daughter has a gift in acting! I was so proud! She played the wind in a play called Millicent and the Wind by Robert Munsch. Just lovely.

Here are Millicent (left) and the Wind (right)

First day of First Grade

Happy Easter 2011!

2011-04-26T11:47:00.002-06:00

The Insignificant Things On My Mind

2011-03-19T20:08:00.011-06:00

1. Wanting to obtain A Moveable Feast by E. Hemingway. Paperbackswap doesn't have it. Boo. I asked my hubby to look for it at the Borders bookstore that is closing close by, when he was there today, and the only single book of Hemingway's they had was A Farewell to Arms, and no thank you. Not interested. Maybe that's an ignorant thing to say, but it doesn't sound good...anyone read it and want to give me a reason I'd enjoy it?

*Photo taken from Border's website.

2. Going to read through The Everything Vegan Cookbook. Can't believe I own a vegan cookbook. What happened? I never thought I'd be anything close to a vegan, however, it's a really healthy way to be, and I don't think I'll ever truly be a vegan, but I will be following the basic idea from now on. Oh, so this book was at the Borders Ryan went to, and it was 40% off, so we got it for around $10. I looked online before he bought it (we were on the phone together as he shopped), and at Amazon.com, it received 5 stars, and there were 5 terrific reviews, so it was bought. And I need to read thru it.

*Photo taken from Border's website.

3. I made a vegetable lasagna for dinner tonight. It was super good. Really. I made it for the fam., not necessarily for me. It had dairy, but I just had a little bit, and that's the important thing for me, is either eat the plant-based foods, which are full of fiber and will quickly go out of me, or eat a small amount of the non plant-based foods. This is the tremendous wisdom that I've grasped in these two weeks of plant-based food. (wink, wink)

4. Really wanting to rip out the kitchen and start over. I think we should save up and do it.

5. My birthday is coming up, and I know what I want! I want a new set of pots and pans. I've never had a truly great set, and the set I thought was great when I got married, didn't last that long, which is why I know it wasn't that great partly. I am looking in the range of $150 - $200, and I would love if there were some copper involved...copper on the outside perhaps? I am excited! I've got some money stashed away, my hubby will give me money towards it for my bday, and then with just a little more, I'll have enough.

6. I just bought a new aluminum cookie sheet from Pampered Chef. I'm really excited to have it, as all I've had in the past to bake cookies on were 3 sheet pans that are now all disgusting. I seriously cannot get them any cleaner/better than they are, so they are destined to the trash. Plus, I got a few more things from Pampered Chef, as well, since I hosted a party for one of my friends. I will post about that next.

7. Goodbye, Winter 2011! Time for me to switch purses. I'll try to buy a new purse soon, but so far, no such success. I only buy purses if they're on clearance or a major sale, and if I like it a lot, of course. Tomorrow it'll be Hello, Spring. Yay!

Down Seven

2011-03-18T07:50:00.004-06:00

This morning, I weighed in at -7 pounds! I am very excited, since I've been eating all I want of plant-based food, and I mean all I want, and the weight is coming off, pound by pound. Last night, at community group (Bible study), I even had a slice of cherry pie, and when I got home, a handful of chocolate chips (since I'd been so good the whole week)! I'm thrilled it's happened so simply!

*photo borrowed from Granny Scott's website.

Non-Guilty Pleasures

2011-03-15T14:23:00.009-06:00

If you missed this post, I have changed what I eat, as of this week. I am to avoid dairy and have very little organic meat, and have all the plant-based food that I want. Eating this way is supposed to help me lose weight.

So far, I am stuck at -4 pounds in my weight loss journey. I lost a total of 8 pounds from the fast I did, and 4 of that has come back on, thus I've lost 4 pounds.

Today I bought leeks. I sauteed them in some Pam (really wanted butter but no dairy), then added them to boiling water and potatoes. Simple. Not much flavor on its own, but I flavor each bowl of soup up with my favorite spice mix: Kick'n Chicken, along with sea salt and sliced almonds on top. I can eat anything with the right spices added. I ate three bowls of it.

My non-guilty pleasures include marinated green olives, sweet and spicy pickles, and marinated artichoke hearts. Yum. I hope eating all this delicious food really works because I can do this.

Dreaming of Food

2011-03-11T09:10:00.011-07:00

Have you ever fasted? I have - for cleansing purposes, several times. Once I didn't eat for 10 days on The Master Cleanse, which consists of drinking water with freshly-squeezed lemon juice, grade B maple syrup and a splash of cayenne pepper. I drank that mixture (and only that mixture) for 10 days - yes I did. I felt great afterward! It is amazing how after the first one or maybe two days of hunger, your body gets into a different mode and doesn't crave food anymore. Notice I didn't say food didn't look good anymore, because it looks so, so good! In fact, you can ask Ryan, because a few nights ago I wouldn't stop talking about the pizza he and the girls had for dinner! And I've dreamed about food lately, too. Last night I dreamed about chocolate.
But obviously I have struggled back and forth with gaining weight and losing it and gaining again. Not healthy!

I am saying all this because just 10 minutes ago I broke my 3-day distilled water-only fast. This was the first of a water-only fast that I've ever done, and I did this under the supervision of a naturpathic doctor. There really is no way I would consider doing this type of fast for more than 3 or 4 days, because having no calories has made me truly weak. Just going up a flight of stairs has been difficult, and when opening something small, like a plastic wrap for string cheese, my hands would shake!

Not to worry, though, that is to be expected during a fast of this kind. My body was detoxing. I also had heartburn, and learned that you can have heartburn even when eating nothing. Didn't know that.

I woke up today with absolutely no hunger pains, but I broke my fast, as planned, with a blended salad. I blended one mango, a cup of spinach, romaine lettuce (lots), and a fourth cup of coconut milk. It wasn't magic, but that's how you have to start back after a cleanse like this. Clara tasted it and said she didn't like it! To me, it was better than water, but I honestly didn't enjoy it like I thought I would.

You must be wondering why I am doing this fast. Well, the reason I am doing this is to help reboot my body as I switch off my "normal" foods, which are not slenderizing me, let's just say, to eating mostly veggies and legumes, as the base to my new lifestyle. You'll have to keep checking back to see if I have any weight-loss news in the coming future. The fast lost me about 6 pounds, which just may stay off if I proceed as planned.

I am excited about this. It feels right that eating this way should help me to find a healthy weight. I have just hit rock bottom, don't want to gain another pound, and so wanted some real advice. I pray I can stay strong and change for the better.

Small Home Improvements

2011-02-23T13:08:00.012-07:00

On President's Day, I got an inkling to run to JoAnn's for fabric to make a small kitchen curtain. While I was there, I found this orchid. It looks so similar to the real orchid I had on our table last year (which is of course now dead). Now I know this is not desirable compared to real when it comes to flowers, but it's better than not having a centerpiece at all, don't you think? And honestly, I rather love it. It is pretty, and I don't have to give it ice once a week or worry about it dying.
And I did find some fabric. The household fabric was half off, so instead of $30 a yard for the fabric I wanted, I only paid $15, since all I needed was a yard. I came home and sewed it up in about an hour, Ryan put up the curtain rod, and it was hung. See my before and after photos:

Before

After

After (in daylight)

*Oh and I also bought a light cover for that light above the curtain, but for some reason it doesn't hang right and another trip to Home Depot will be required. Don't you hate that? I do.

On a happy note, winter is nearly two-thirds done, which means spring will be here soon! Hooray!

Where's the Cake, Mom?

2011-02-19T16:49:00.002-07:00

As our little Valentine's Day party get-together with 3 other families was winding down, Clara decided she wanted dessert. She did not know that Sarah had made cookies, but she came to me and said I want some cake! She's a smart one, knowing that at parties there is usually cake. Well, I told her there were cookies but she had to wait until Mrs. Sarah was ready to get them out. She kept asking again and again, and I said the same thing each time. When Sarah decided it was time for cookies, she asked Clara first if she wanted one. And I took a pic, b/c she's just so cute and was just so happy about her cookie! Here she is with it!

Our [Family] Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T18:12:00.005-07:00

Happy Valentine's Day! It is nice to have a family with which to celebrate Valentine's Day. It is also nice to have friends to party with on the annual day of love. Today, we did both, or at least almost both. Last night we exchanged gifts as a family, and today we had a friend party, complete with lunch, a craft for the kids (of course!), a Charlie Brown Valentine movie, and heart-shaped and chocolate-dipped cookies! But this post is about our family gift exchange.

As you can see, we girls got flowers! The pink roses are of course for me, since they are my all-time fave, and the bright daisies are for the girls - all from Ryan, of course!

I gave Ryan a framed family photo for his desk at work. It came from Shutterfly, and it's a frame and picture all in one, it doesn't seperate, which is kinda snazzy. He kept looking at it, which meant he liked it! Plus, he told me a couple times, too!

And for the girls, from my previous post you may have read that I got Madeleine the mini Plum Pudding doll, to add to her collection (only missing Blueberry Muffin now).

And I got Clara exactly what she loves, very small animals: a bear cub and zebra with a tree hammock to take turns napping in. I got that on clearance, as well, and saved it for today. She saw that I had bought it and kept begging for it, but I told her maybe she'd get it for her birthday, while having Valentine's Day in mind.

I very much enjoyed watching my family open their Valentine's Day presents! It's a wonderful feeling to make others happy.

Plum Pudding - Check

2011-02-12T01:08:00.009-07:00

Thanks to one of my good friends, my daughters both received mini Strawberry Shortcake dolls for their summer birthdays. They're very much the same size as Polly Pockets, and my girls both loved them, so I decided we would try to collect all of the Strawberry Shortcake mini friends. Who knew it would be such a difficult thing to do.

Difficult not to find Orange Blossom, plenty of those. Not hard to find Lemon Meringue either. Raspberry Torte a bit harder, though, and Blueberry Muffin or Plum Pudding - nearly impossible.

I have several Targets in my area, and frequent two or three regularly, so I periodically check when in the toy section, searching for a birthday gift for one of my daughters' friends. I was extremely surprised to find Plum Pudding at the back of a row of Lemon Meringues, but snapped her up and bought her right away in early January, as an upcoming Valentine's gift for Madeleine. (I cannot wait 'till Monday!)

Each doll costs around $7, give or take a few cents, at Target.

Get this: after Christmas, when Target clearanced out their toys, I found a set of 5 minis at 75% off. I got the set for $7.50 instead of $30. Wow. I am not sure which little girl will get this as a birthday gift or if it will be eventually sold on eBay by yours truly, but I enjoy knowing I own such a prized possession such as this set of minis, from such little money. I will be sad to part with it.

However, the set did not come with Blueberry Muffin. I guess Blueberry was not part of that line? I have yet to figure this out. Then going on eBay tonight to look for Blueberry Muffin and finding the average asking price to be about $20, I am guessing others are having a hard time finding her, also.

Wish I could clear up my confusion on her being in the same line or not. Obviously she was made, since I see her and the same packaging on eBay, but why wasn't she in the hatbox set that I mentioned purchasing?

I am not sure, but I'll keep looking for her, even if in vain. Anybody know about this? We want to have all the mini friends.

Snow, More Snow, + Veggie Pizza

2011-02-08T19:29:00.009-07:00

I'm not exactly sure how long, but Denver has been enduring snow dump after snow dump. It's been about two and a half weeks, and we start to recover from one snow and get another! Being a stay-at-home wife, mama and homeschooling mom, I haven't been much affected by it, but I do feel for all of those going to and from work and school - you poor dears! The kids and I've just stuck pretty close to home most days and entertained ourselves with books, special toys tucked away for such days as these, and sledding down the teensy hill we have out back.
Tonight was to be a Pampered Chef Dinner Party at my home. I had several friends coming over for Three-Cheese Garden Pizza, a Caesar Salad, Breadsticks, and Iced Tea, as well as for a Pampered Chef demonstration. However, I went ahead and cancelled it this morning due to the snow and low temps, but made the pizza tonight for my family anyhow (minus the stonewear). Such good veggie pizza, just look at it! I love my veggies and don't nearly eat them enough. Do you?
That's about all I've been up to lately, besides reading lotsa books. Really. I am starting to feel quite smart with all my reading. :) That, as well as more than a bit sedentary. I've also started back to the gym recently. I even read my book while on the eliptical. The guy next to me kept looking over at me, but the book made the time go by pretty fast, so I'd say the funny looks were definitely worth it!

Stay warm!

Book Obsessed

2011-02-01T20:33:00.004-07:00

I've just requested three more Sophie Kinsella books from PaperBackSwap. I had forgotten how much I enjoyed the Shopaholic series. I've read them all to date, as well as Remember Me? - all by Sophie Kinsella.

Kinsella's actual name is Madeleine Wickham, and she's written other books in that name. I've only read one, The Gatecrasher, and it was so awful I will not be reading another one. I suppose she uses two pen names for two different styles of writing - makes sense, doesn't it?

Besides the three books by Kinsella, I also ordered Wish by Melina Gerosa Bellows. I've never read any of her books, but it got good reviews. I always read book reviews before purchasing them, don't you?

On an unrelated note, the county I live in closed schools today (Feb 1st) because of subzero weather and hardly any snow. And, they've decided to close schools for tomorrow, as well. Seems they are thinking of the safety of children and bus drivers, buses possibly stalling because of the cold, and kids waiting too long for the bus outside and getting too cold. Denver is not used to this cold of weather, clearly. It's all right by me. Better to keep those kids safe, if it's at all in question.

Enjoy February before it gets up and leaves like January did.

Mini Shopaholic + More

2011-01-27T10:10:00.008-07:00

Our whole family has been reading lately. My current book is Mini Shopaholic, and it makes me laugh. I've read all the Shopaholic books and so far this one is unique, since it's not just about Rebecca Bloomwood-Brandon but about her 2-year old child, who is just like her mom, a gotta-have-it-at-any-price-type.

Madeleine just finished Ramona and her Mother and is currently reading some other Ramona book, Clara "reads" her library books, since we just went to the library, and Ryan recently finished The Five Love Languages and is on to another book about working as a team.

On another note, I have over 500 posts on this blog! Since I have deleted a few over the years, I am not sure exactly just how many are currently kept here, but it's around 500 and that, to me, is quite large. :)

Happy Thursday!

*photo borrowed from a website

Panda Bear Love

2011-01-25T13:12:00.017-07:00

We are a tiny bit obsessed with panda bears. There are only 5 of them (so far), but my girls (and I) love all the pandas! All of them belong to Clara except the first one on the left.

We wish the Denver Zoo had pandas, but they do not. ~~(One lady at the zoo told us there's only one zoo in the U.S. that has actual pandas - the San Diego Zoo! I could not believe that.~~ Wikipedia says that the zoos in Washington D.C., Atlanta, Memphis, and San Diego all have pandas. It also says that giant pandas are the costliest zoo animal in the U.S. - five times as costly as the second-most costly animal, the elephant. The price must be the reason more U.S. zoos do not have them.)

Their names, from left to right: Zoo, Suzie, Baby Panda, Sara, and Heart. (Heart got its name when Clara was barely talking. She kept saying "Heart's lost" or something like that, and we would say, "who's heart?" We eventually figured it out, and now we love its name - so appropriate!)

*photo by Chas

This birthday cake was for Clara's second birthday; as you can see it also had Panda Bears!

We girls think panda bears are so adorable. One of God's cutest creations for sure!

Thoughts on Homeschooling First Grade: Halfway Through

2011-01-24T00:19:00.013-07:00

It feels good to reach the halfway point for the academic year, as a homeschooling mom.

Starting week 19 tomorrow, I want to stuff one more day of school into each week, to make the second half of the school year finish up quicker. If I stay at the same pace of the first half, I would finish right at the end of May, which is decent, but how nice it'd be to finish a week earlier. Or two weeks earlier. We could vaca before the end of May. That'd be nice.

Friends and family have asked how homeschooling has gone so far. I say consistently that it's going well.

Reasons homeschooling is going well:
1) I have a good student and a willing student, which eliminates frustration.
2) I have a well-put-together curriculum, which makes being the 'teacher' almost effortless.
3) I still will to carry it out, which is a must.
4) I am organized in the area of school desk, books, and lesson plans.

Another question I get asked is do I plan to homeschool next year? Well who knows until it's decision-making time, right? But, if I guessed about next year, I'd say yes, we will homeschool again.

Many ask what reactions do I receive from random people who find out I homeschool. I have received only positive reactions regarding homeschooling. Really. No one, not. one. single. person. has reacted in a less-than positive way about homeschooling. Furthermore, most say that they hear of more and more families that homeschool all the time. Good to know, right?

What has this year, so far, taught me? Right away, this year taught me that there's no need to fear things I'm afraid of (such as a big responsibility like teaching a child).

More thoughts:
1) I love having both my daughters together during the day, instead of apart. They love being together, and a happy family is important.
2) I choose what to teach my daughter (and what not to teach), and feel confident about what she learns.
3) Ways to socialize abound. A few ways to socialize as a homeschool student are: playing sports, participating in homeschooling coops, attending church, joining Bible study groups, and continuing playdates. We participate in all hereby listed.

Overall, I am thankful for the freedom to homeschool.

For those interested, here is my first post regarding homeschooling.

A Mean Snow

2011-01-19T19:21:00.004-07:00

Most of our snow just melted away and now it's coming down again. This time, it's not a nice snow- it's mean and aggressive and forceful. I just hope it stops soon.

Oh a happier night, my hubby made us a fire to keep warm! It smells so good!

Not much else to say, but I will leave you with this new pic. We are anticipating Valentine's Day, ya know, so I had to take pics early...

Sister Love

N'Orleans Coffee + Clearance Deals

2011-01-14T19:30:00.009-07:00

See the stroller my daughter is pushing below? We bought it today. Couldn't pass it up. It was clearanced from $20 down to $5. Yeah. It came home with us, along with quite a few other toys. I figured: I have to buy birthday gifts anyway, they might as well be nice and inexpensive, also! I purchased $100 worth of toys and spent $25.

Also, I came face-to-face with cans of Cafe du Monde coffee today. Here in Colorado. I was so surprised. There was also beignet mix! All I bought was the coffee, though. I talked with the cashier, and Cost Plus World Market carries Cafe du Monde coffee and beignets year-round, not just pre-Mardi Gras. Um, GOOD TO KNOW! Wish I would have known that, well, 8 years ago!

There were lots more things that happened in my day, but these made me the happiest. And now the weekend [and rest] are upon us. Goodie!

What are your weekend plans?

Thoughts from 'Chilly Scenes'

2011-01-13T19:24:00.005-07:00

*image borrowed from a website

I finished Chilly Scenes of Winter last night.

This book was a bit dated. Written about the year 1975, and lots of mentions of the 60s being the glory days. Records, not Ipods were talked about. There were no AllRecipes.com or Google Maps. No answering machines. No cell phones. This is what the world was like before I was born. This was my parent's world in their prime. I liked the book for that reason.

Chilly Scenes was a book about wanting someone you can't have. It was about the day-to-day. About food. About kindness. About loneliness, and illness. About death. But mostly it was about unrequited love.

I am glad to have read it. I learned two new words from this book, so I guess we can say it was educational.

*If you want more of a review, click on the photo of the book on the right sideline and it'll show my review.

Before, During + After

2011-01-13T16:02:00.008-07:00

We have gone way past the point where it is difficult to brush Madeleine's long hair. That means a trip to Caroline's to get it cut...

Before

During

+
After

Now her hair is manageable.

I'll bet she will even brush it herself tomorrow before school. Unless you've had to brush tangle-y hair this often, you just don't know what a chore it is - for both of us!

It's amazing how much older she looks pictured above compared to her first real cut. What do you think?

Chilly Scenes of Winter

2011-01-08T20:04:00.006-07:00

Just received another book from PaperBackSwap in the mail.

Published in 1976, Chilly Scenes of Winter, by Ann Beattie has good reviews. It's Beattie's first novel - and it was made into a film.

I own and have read part of Beattie's short story collection Park City, recommended from a writer friend in college (who I cannot find on Facebook and haven't talked to since I got married), and wanted to try one of her novels also. Cracking it open tonight.

~~On a side note, our Denver winter has not been very chilly quite recently, but still, the book is somewhat appropriate. I think. At least it is winter.~~ <-- Changed that to say it's been snowing all day and is quite chilly. And I am reading it!

One More Resolution for 2011

2011-01-03T11:07:00.005-07:00

I want to plan ahead this year.

I've already started to think about the arrangements for Valentine's Day (hey, it's coming up!), as well as big plans for Thanksgiving (really far away, I know, but what I want to do will take plans).

We'll see if I can accomplish my resolution!

to health

2011-01-01T21:45:00.005-07:00

First day of the new year started for me with a cold: stuffy nose, headache, minor sore throat. Madeleine has the same cold. I think I got it from her. Ryan's mostly over his, although he's been dizzy a lot today (he has sinus issues). I also haven't left the house in the last two days because of the snow. It's been in the single digits around here and I just haven't felt like getting out into it!

I must say, though, that having a cold is nothing compared to having the stomach flu or bronchitis or something like that. And I haven't had a cold since two years ago when I was getting infection after infection. Since then I've taken Juice Plus and was always able to fight off colds. Plus, I boosted my immunity with Grapefruit See Oil Extract.

Lately I've been drinking fresh lemon juice in my water and cooking with more vinegars and using cayenne to help my body to be even healthier, but I got gastritis from all that. The last week and a half I've avoided all (okay, truthfully most) acidic things, and it seems like an educated guess to say my cold came from the lack of it all.

Today I did have a bowl of leftover sweet potato soup (with lemon and ginger) that I'd frozen after Thanksgiving. It felt like health in a bowl. I should make it more often.

I've also been drinking Celestial Seasoning's Wellness Tea with raw honey. It really does help!

What are your secret cold remedies?

Here's to a healthy year.

Resolutions?

2010-12-31T12:40:00.005-07:00

I do have a few resolutions for 2011. Actually, I am not waiting until tomorrow (Jan 1st) to start these changes, I've already started them all. Here's what they are:

One
Cutting out artificial sweeteners. I've been buying Blue Agave nectar and raw honey instead. They are so good.
Two
Ditching antiperspirants. (Since they're made with aluminium, which is not good for anyone's body let's face it.) I've been ignoring my knowledge of this ingredient for quite some time and enough is enough. I need to find a good-for-you deodorant, tho.
Three
Counting calories.
Four
Eating more salads, fresh veggies, and lean proteins.

And you?

Reflections on our 2010

2010-12-31T09:50:00.006-07:00

One

Ryan left us at home and went to Canada at least 3 times, and Hawai'i once, yes without us girls.

Two

I learned not only to cope without a husband but also to savor the me time when he was gone.

Three

Found two new churches. We left our previous church October 2009 but didn't find a new one until Jan 2010. Now if we could just let one go....we attend both every Sunday, since they each have one service at different times of the day. Yeah, it's crazy but we really like it!

Four

I became a homeschooling mom. It's super fantastic, can't believe how simple it is for one child, in first grade.

Five

We now own two pillow pets.

Six

I have learned more about God's Word, and am starting to piece it all together better than ever before, the Old Testament with the New Testament.....and I am so amazed at the love of Jesus Christ and how He does indeed want me to have His love and give it to others. Thank you so much for that, God!

Seven

I've been reading a lot. I did not count the books I read in 2010, but here were some of my favorites. I've really used Paperbackswap.com a ton this year, trading books for free with other members (all you pay is postage). I've also gotten a book or two from Goodwill, the library, and have swapped with Chastity. We've read most of the same ones this year, so fun. I plan to read just as often in the new year.

Eight

I am a lot happier with my house. We painted the downstairs in late winter/early spring and it looks 100% nicer. There are lots of other things I'd love to change about the house, like a safer stair railing, new carpet, new kitchen countertops as well as kitchen floor. But I haven't yet convinced my husband to spend the money on any of that - yet. Maybe in 2011?

panda bear

2010-12-29T13:48:00.005-07:00

I've been inspired by other families who give their children new pajamas every Christmas Eve (that way come Christmas morn' the kids come downstairs in their new pjs to open Christmas gifts). This Christmas Eve, I let my girls open one gift each, which were their new, very adorable jammies. They look so cute in them, in my opinion! :D Clara also got to open one other gift, since it was something she could use that night - a pillow pet! (Letting her open another gift was Madeleine's idea.)

Madeleine got a pillow pet for her 6th birthday and so it was Clara's turn. She LOVES it. I asked her after all the Christmas gifts were open what her fave present was, and she said her panda pillow pet!

She really has quite a collection of panda bears on her bed now. I'm lovin' that. Did you see her panda birthday cake?

I Will Be You & You Will Be Me

2010-12-27T11:59:00.005-07:00

Lately Clara has been telling me that when she grows up, she will be a mommy. She will have a baby girl and a baby boy and they both will be named Ryan (at one point the girl was going to be named Madeleine but I guess she changed her mind!). The rest of the story goes, that when she's a mommy, she will drink coffee, and I will be Clara.

Today, on our walk, as I pushed Clara in her stroller, she turned her head to talk to me. She again said she was going to be a mommy, and I said right, but I'm not going to be Clara, though.

She must have found the words to ask what I was going to then be, and I told her "a grandma."

"Oh" she said.

I think she'll have to think on it.

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-25T11:27:00.002-07:00

Merry Christmas 2010 from our family to yours!

Our Kids Christmas Party: Nativity Craft

2010-12-24T15:08:00.015-07:00

Madeleine asked to have a Christmas party this year. She invited some of her friends over for a gift exchange and a Christmas craft.

Here's the craft that the kids, er I mean Jessica, Chastity and I made. The kids painted the pots but that's all I decided to let them do. The rest of the work was a bit tedious. But isn't this (above) just adorable? We all thought so.

Here are the girls painting their pots.

...more girls painting.

waiting for the presents...

Every girl brought a gift to exchange: some toy that they no longer wanted or rarely played with. They pulled numbers out of a bowl to see who got to choose first. There were several My Little Ponys, a Barbie, a Polly Pocket with a little house, a princess with a castle, a princess with a carriage, and, especially for Clara, two tiny rabbits. I think most of the girls were happy with their new toys, if not all of them, and they all quickly went upstairs to play with them once all had been opened.
I made Andrea's Snowmen Cookies but did not get a photo of them. They were put into these Christmas gift bags and given out as the girls were picked up. Believe me, they were good. White chocolate-covered orea cookies?

What a good idea Madeleine had for Christmas party. It was a lot of work for me, but it was special for her. Merry Christmas, everyone!

*Special thanks to Jess and Chas for helping with the craft. I would have been making those sets all morning long had they both not stepped in!*

River Walk

2010-12-20T18:49:00.004-07:00

I posted before about running out of time to take our family Christmas pic. Well, we finally squeezed in a few minutes to pose together. We took a walk along a nice biking/walking path in the Littleton area and got the foothills in the [very far] background of our picture. (By the way this is not our Christmas photo!)

We also walked next to the Platte River. The girls had to stop and throw rocks into it, and their daddy carried them over the rocks to get them closer to the water. We should take this path again: it was a fun little outing, even if it was only meant for a pic. :D

A Walk in the First Snow

2010-12-19T20:25:00.008-07:00

On Friday we got our first snow (if you don't count the flurries that didn't stick, and let's not). It was about a half an inch, maybe, so not much, but it was pretty, and Clara got a kick out of her footprints. Here she is taking a walk around a playground near her sister's school.

She stops to listen to me tell her it's time to go, but says in a minute and takes one more walk around the play yard.

I just love that girl!

Felt Gingerbread Girls + Boys

2010-12-18T19:52:00.004-07:00

We made these Gingerbread girls and boys out of felt. We had a few of our friends over to make them and I think they turned out super cute! :)

Cheeky

2010-12-13T23:25:00.005-07:00

We went to Chick-fil-A tonight for the girls to take a picture with the Santa Cow, get their faces painted, and to get balloon art. We stood in line for about an hour but finally accomplished all of that. The girls also ate dinner there, while Ryan and I did not this time (although we adore Chick-fil-A chicken). I am thankful for the opportunity to make another memory with my girls. Even better that all besides the food was free (and some of our food was free because of calendar coupons)!Read more here.