My Particular Harbor

Big Plans

2012-01-01T12:58:00.005-05:00

There is nothing like a new year to motivate you to set new goals. Its almost as exciting as the first day of school!

Money
The hubby and I sat down this morning and worked out our budget going forward. We have a goal to pay down some debt and to set aside more into savings. We are using a combination of Dave Ramsey and Mary Hunt with a little of our own plans thrown in for good measure. The good thing about our plan is that we have agreed to sit down once-a-week to review our plan. This is huge for us as our schedules are so insane!

House Projects
We also sat down and made a list of all the little projects that need to get done. We went room by room and made notes about what we wanted to do from painting to patching holes. There isn't a crazy amount of stuff, but we'll hit it a little at a time.

Children's Routines and Chores
My children have had a bit of a free ride since school started. We had so many changes that we focused more on surviving the day to day chaos. That in turn, just created more chaos. Starting today, we are getting back on track. After all, I am training my children to become adults, not to be children for the rest of their lives! Its time they start doing more.

Menu Planning
This is another area that I have let slip in recent months. Our food budget and my sanity do so much better when there is a plan. I am even thinking of joining the pantry challenge at Good Cheap Eats.

Weight Loss
That is another area where I need to commit some changes. I weighed myself this morning and I am heavier than this time last year. Hubby and I are going to start watching our portions, I am going to try and give up soda (my vice!) and work out regularly. On of my goals is to walk/run 400 miles this year. That is just a slightly more than a mile a day! Definitely doable.

So what are you working on for the new year?

20 minutes left of 2011

2011-12-31T23:40:00.003-05:00

Wow - I can't believe that 2011 is almost over.
This has been a rough year for my family. Just over a year ago I went back to work full-time outside of the house. With that brought adjustments for my time as well as my children not having Mommy all to themselves which is still taking some getting used to.
The same week, my Dad - "The Old Fart" - had a stroke and then a heart attack. It threw my whole family into turmoil in the weeks and months that followed. It was touch and go for a long while, but he is still with us and is working toward his independence everyday.
In August, I lost my Papa - my Grandfather. He was a career military man who was an awesome testament to his generation and his family. He was a loving husband, father and grandfather and I miss him every day.
My parents moved and now live just four doors down from me! It is an excited change and I am so glad that they are nearby. Now if I can just get my brother and sister to move closer!
My husband changed locations at work and with that brought an even crazier schedule which I am still trying to get used to. He didn't think he would like it at first, but now he is able to let some of his strengths shine, and I am so proud of him!
So, 2011 might not have been the best year, but I know I have grown as a person in countless ways and I am still here to tell about it!
I hope that you and yours have a wonderful New Year!

"Mom! There is nothing to eat, only ingredients."

2011-07-09T11:43:00.009-04:00

My son, the Mad Scientist, is known for scavenging in the pantry and saying those exact words. If I had a nickel for every time I heard that phrase, I could buy a lot more groceries!
Our budget is having a rough week. We had some unexpected car repairs that ate into our budget. Both cars have needed work over the past two weeks and wiped out our "emergency fund". Thank goodness we had some money set aside, but we are going to have to tighten our belts for the next few weeks to get by with no wiggle room.
That means it is time for Mom - that's me - to get creative and use what we have in our pantry and freezers.

I will post our menu plan as well as some recipes over the next few days.

Would you like to join me and plan a menu for your family?

For Nicole, Jennifer and Mandie

2011-07-09T11:34:00.002-04:00

At the urging of some girlfriends, I am resurrecting my blog...again.
In the past 7 months, my life has been crazier than normal - whatever that is!
I went back to work full time in December. The same week, my father suffered a stroke and heart attack. My husband and I almost lost our home due to financial constraints. Add in the holidays, three kids, 2 dogs, Girl Scouts, Cub Scouts, homework, housework, a quadruple bypass (for Dad, not me), a weight loss challenge and all the other randomness of life, I have let things slide, a lot!
So starting this week, I will try and blog at least once a day, whether it be a picture, a recipe or just a brain dump.
Can you stand the excitement?

Daniel Fast - review and new goals

2010-08-03T13:05:00.003-04:00

In my last posts, I wrote about doing the Daniel Fast. Let me just say, the first day was a little difficult, but after some recipe searches and a little planning, it got easier.
In 10 days, I lost 8 pounds! I would have lost more if I was exercising regularly and if I didn't allow myself to "cheat".
During the week of my Fast, we had company in from out of town and my hubby took some time off so that we could play. On the days we packed our our food, I just packed my foods and some extra fruit. On the days that we ate out, I allowed myself to eat what I would have before the Fast. I mean, let's face it, who can go to Fuddrucker's and not eat a cheeseburger? It would take a stronger woman than me!!
I would like to eat more like the Daniel Fast food list. I already do a lot of cooking from scratch and we eat mostly "real food" around here. I think the biggest obstacles for me are cheese and bread!
So next week, I am going to modify the Daniel Fast for me -and yes, I know the point of the Daniel Fast is not weight loss, but a spiritual journey. However, I am using it as a guideline to help me meet some of my fitness / weight loss goals.
Here are the "rules" I am giving myself:
1. Eat at least two meals a day that adhere to the Daniel Fast food guidelines ( for those of you who commented to me that I was severely limiting my food intake - think of this as a vegan diet).
2. I will workout at least 30 minutes a day and change it up!
3. I will cut back on the soda - oh my bubbles!
4. I will try my best to be in bed by 11pm every night.

I think these goals are totally doable. My life is about to get even crazier as all three children prepare to go back to school - my baby is starting kindergarten! Girl Scouts is starting back up and I am either going back to work outside the house or going back to school. Add that to all the various homemaking duties, personal goals and all the other stuff a Mom has to do and my plate is very full! As long as its full of the good stuff, I think I will be okay. :)

Daniel Fast - Day 1

2010-07-06T10:45:00.008-04:00

In an effort to "be prepared" - I stocked up on lots of summer produce. The biggest obstacle in this new eating plan is making sure my children get their fill of their favorite fruits and still leaving me enough to eat!
All three children had a dentist appointment this morning, so for a quick breakfast on the go, I grabbed a banana. I normally don't eat in the morning, so for me - this was huge! Calorie count = 105
At about 10 am, the kids were clamoring for a snack and I was noticing some stomach noises coming from me! So I made a plate of celery sticks with natural peanut butter (peanuts & salt, no sugar!) (112 calories), a handful of cherries (74 calories) and an apricot (17 calories). Calorie count = 203
In the afternoon, I had 6 oz of fresh raspberries. Calorie Count = 64 calories
For dinner, I ate a cup of brown rice and lentils (224 calories), roasted corn on the cob (77 calories), roasted veggies (zucchini, yellow squash, onions, mushrooms = 162 calories). Total Calorie Count = 463
Total Calories for the Day = 835
I have been drinking nothing but ice water and lost count of how much I drank after I hit 96 oz. According to my reading, for my weight I should be drinking 117 oz a day. I think I accomplished that today.
The calorie count seems really low, but I based it on averages provided by a few different online calorie counters. I haven't really been hungry. That worries me a bit as I don't know what the coming days will bring.

Weight Loss Goal

2010-07-06T10:06:00.006-04:00

One of my resolutions this year was to finally lose all the "baby weight" I have been carrying around. My youngest son will be 6 in September, so I can no longer use the excuse that "I just had a baby"!
My best friend and I are the same height, same build and have the same goal weight. We decided to embark on an interstate weight loss project. To date, she is kicking my fanny. BIG TIME!!!!
I have 80 pounds to lose. 8-0!! That is a huge number. It seems really overwhelming so I am focusing on the first ten pounds. When those are gone, I'll take another babystep.
I am the type of person that needs that jumpstart.
Today I am starting the Daniel Fast. This eating plan is based on the story of Daniel and his refusal to eat meats, wine and other "pleasant foods"during 21 days. It is a plant based diet. So lots of fruit, veggies, whole grains, beans and WATER!!!
So I hope to chronicle my experience with this fast / diet. I am also going to re-commit to getting up before my family is moving in the morning and have some quiet time for me!
Obviously, weight loss is about so much more than just food. You need to move too. So I convinced one of the "other Jennifers" to get a membership to my gym and we are going to work out together. I just need to get there!!

Mid Year Ramblings

2010-07-06T08:44:00.007-04:00

2010 has not been the year I had hoped it would be.
In January, I turned 33 and did not have a light bulb moment. I had hoped that by this age, my path would be clearer or at least more defined. As it turns out, the twists and turns on this journey are still as confusing as they ever were.
In March, my oldest turned 9. NINE!!! When did that happen and why? She has grown into such an interesting person that sometimes I wonder where she came from and how she became MY daughter.
In March, I also lost my Grandmother. She suffered from COPD as well as some other health issues. She declined pretty rapidly in the last few years, but you are never prepared to hear the news that a loved one is gone.
In June, my husband lost his Grandmother. As a family, we lived with her (and my in-laws) for three years before she moved back to Chicago to live with her other daughter. I feel so blessed to have spent that time with her. It wasn't always fun, but I am glad that she got to know me and my children.
So far this year, in addition to the losses, we have had financial trouble (hasn't everyone?), plumbing issues, appliances break, car trouble, you name it! It seems like as soon as one crisis passes, another one erupts taking its place.
Unfortunately, my story isn't unique. We all have issues in life that we must deal with. To often, the people around me think I am a dumping ground and use me to vent their frustrations with life. Yes, your life is horrible. Oh, that is terrible. All the platitudes they want to hear to be justified in winning "My Life Sucks Worse Than Yours" title.
Guess what, I am taking myself out of the running for that title. I don't want it. Yes, I have challenges. Yes, I am extremely busy. Yes, I have three children and a husband and a house to run. Yes, I volunteer crazy hours. Yes, money is tight. Yes, my family all lives 2,000+ miles away and I have little support from the ones who live 20 miles away. So what? I deal and life goes on.
"When we long for life without difficulties, remind us that oaks grow strong in contrary winds and diamonds are made under pressure" - Peter Marshall

Gratitude

2010-01-20T13:13:00.002-05:00

Gratitude - The state of being grateful; thankfulness.
It is so important to be grateful and content with your gifts in life. Especially now with all of the horrible images and stories coming from places like Haiti where people have lost EVERYTHING.
Even though things could be SO MUCH worse on a personal level, I have many friends who are so negative about their lot in life right now. I must admit, I have been slipping into that trap more and more lately, and quite frankly, it makes me mad!
So I am playing Pollyanna and twisting my complaints into something useful and GRATEFUL!
*Laundry is a thankless, never ending chore.
Having clothes to wear and to wash is a blessing. My children are clothed and I don't need to haul my supplies to a laundromat or worse to a river to beat them against rocks to keep them clean!

*I am so tired of having to come up with a menu and cook everyday.
There are people in the world who don't have the luxury of variety in their diet or food at all. I am thankful that I have 5 grocery stores within 2 miles of my home where I can shop for our supplies. Our budget may not be large, but we are able to keep our children fed. Cooking is one of my creative outlets and I ENJOY using my talents to feed my family.

*I wish my husband didn't work such long, weird hours.
My husband has a job and most days he really enjoys what he does for a living!

*My kids drive me crazy!
Some women never know the joy of bearing or raising children of their own. I am blessed to have had three healthy pregnancies and three healthy, strong children.

*My house is too small for five people. I HAVE to decorate it on a budget. My furniture is OLD! Nothing matches! Whaaaaa!
We have a roof over our heads. Our house is small, but do we really need more space to fill with junk or clean? Our family is forced to spend lots of time together because there is little space for privacy, and that isn't necessarily a bad thing! :) I enjoy finding bargains and take pride in knowing that the china cabinet you admire so much in my dining room was a thrift store find that actually dates back to the Civil War! Every bit of furniture and decor has a history and I like that. My house will never be in a magazine or a catalog and that's okay! A real family lives here.

So what things can you turn from complaints into blessings?

Tomorrow is always fresh

2010-01-19T16:12:00.003-05:00

What is it about a New Year that makes people want to completely change their lives or circumstances? Its something as simple as seeing a fresh clean calendar page, writing in a new diary, coming up for air after the holidays to find that we are all still here!
I love the writings of Lucy Maud Montgomery and was introduced to the Anne of Green Gable series when I was around ten. I felt that Anne was a kindred spirit and I connected with her troubles and tenacity through every scrape and mistake. She was just like me in so many ways! But the one thing that always spoke to me was Anne's favorite saying, "Tomorrow is always fresh with no mistakes in it".
I am jumping on the band-wagon and joining Anne with her approach to life! I worry far too much about things I have no control over. And if I make a mistake, there is always tomorrow!

Its Time

2010-01-19T16:08:00.002-05:00

Its time to use this blog for what I set it up for. To stay in touch with my friends and family across the country. To have a space to write and process things in my life. To meet other people who share the same thoughts or to start a dialogue at the very least.

Break is over

2009-10-01T10:09:00.002-04:00

I didn't plan on it, but I took a break from blogging for the summer. I keep getting phone calls and e-mails from friends reminding me to update this more often, so I will!

School is almost out for the year!

2009-06-02T09:44:00.003-04:00

My children have only 4 more days until they are free!!!
I am putting together a camp schedule for the summer so that we can all have fun. But - I still have to work and I want them to continue working on what they have been doing in school.
I asked the children to choose 2 themes each. So far our summer vacation looks like this so far:
June7-13 - Dinosaurs!
14-20 - VBS and then Mad Scientists
21-27 - Under the Sea
28 - July 4 - USA
5-11 - Pirates
12-18 - Ancient Egypt
19-25 Outer Space
26-August 1 - Pioneer Days

I still have two weeks to decide on themes and we may rearrange the schedule based on Daddy's days off and our family "field trip" for the week.
Each week we will work on projects related to the theme: Art, Cooking, Stories, Science, etc. I also want to incorporate a Bible Verse and some worksheet stuff into each theme.
I plan to take the kids to one of the $1 movies at AMC on Wednesdays and then go swimming and Grandma and Papas house.
More to come!

Never underestimate

2009-06-02T09:07:00.007-04:00

As most of my friends know, I tend to be conservative in my political views. I found this on another blog and I think it speaks volumes.

Visitor in the neighborhood

2009-04-01T19:39:00.003-04:00

The garbage men came by this afternoon to pick up yard waste - exciting, no? The neighbor's dogs were barking and at first, I chalked it up to the weekly greeting they give the garbage men. But, they didn't stop, so I poked my head outside and saw something scrambling across the neighbor's lawn. Can you guess what it was?

It was bookin' its way across our neighbors yard and into the yard of the people behind her. I had to convince my kids that we couldn't have another pet right now and that this guy was perfectly fine on his own.
I hope your day was as exciting as ours!

Monday March 30th Edition

2009-03-30T11:31:00.004-04:00

FOR TODAY March 30, 2009

Outside my window...squirrels are playing in the leaves and my dogs are laying in the sunshine!

I am thinking...I need to reboot my "servants" so that my house can run smoothly.

I am thankful for...both my husband and I having jobs. This last week was touch and go, but we are both safe - for now.

From the kitchen...I smell the beef roast that has been cooking low and slow for many hours. Now I just need to make some sides!

I am wearing...Jeans, a green shirt and my lace-up shoes.

I am creating...quilt squares tonight with my Girl Scout troop.

I am going...to pick up the rest of my monkeys from school in another hour and a half.

I am reading...gardening books - they have become so worn and dog-eared that I am surprised they are still in one piece.

I am hoping...to spend some time with my husband this week - without kids.

I am hearing...my youngest monkey watching "The Incredibles" in the next room.

Around the house...it is pretty quiet.

One of my favorite things...this time of year. Its not too warm and the chill of winter is behind us. Well, it doesn't get that cold here in FL, but I think you know what I mean!

A few plans for the rest of the week: I need to catch up on lots of house work. Peak season for work starts on Wednesday and I need to feel prepared.

Here is picture thought I am sharing... Miss Midnight

Want to join the fun? http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/

Saturday Fun

2009-03-28T10:47:00.003-04:00

My husband works on the weekends, so for our family, it is usually just another day.
On tap for today - I need to clean out my pantries, refrigerators and freezers. Yes those are all plurals!
I have a small kitchen, but my husband and FIL installed some extra cabinets for me after we had been here a few months. So, I have 4 cabinets that I use to store non-perishables. I have 2 refrigerators with small freezers and a stand alone freezer.
I usually keep a tight inventory of what we have on hand - so that I can plan menus easily. It also helps when I shop to know that I already have extra mayo in the pantry so we really don't need anymore!
I know that this is a riveting blog post - sorry! I need to start blogging again on a regular basis!
I'll let you all know how I do!

Happy New Year - a few days late!

2009-01-03T19:41:00.004-05:00

I know everyone else is putting their resolutions on their blog, so I am a big ole copycat and will do the same. My list of goals is quite long this year, but I need to get my rear in gear and get some things done! Here they are, in no particular order!

Get organized - my house is a mess and I have some great ideas that I just need to implement and follow through!
Keep better track of our money - now that I am working, we should be getting ahead of our bills and saving for a rainy day!
Budget my time better - I know this goes hand in hand with getting organized, but it is something I need to work on now that my work is about to get really crazy.
Go back to menu planning and better grocery shopping. Our budget per week is $75 for food. I can do it!!! and do it healthy.
Make more food from scratch and garden more - I am still feeling the need to stock up and be self-reliant.
Spend more time with my husband - I mean other than sleeping! We seem to pass each other all the time, but never get to connect.
Spend some individual time with each of my kids. they are all changing so fast.
Communicate with my extended family better
And last but not least - blog at least 4 times a week! I am on the computer enough!

So what are your goals for 2009?

Saturday's To-Do

2008-11-08T11:04:00.003-05:00

I updated my to-do list on the sidebar. I have a bunch of chores calling my name and I really should get my bottom off my chair and go work on them!
Jeff just left for work and the boys are watching a move. Ashleigh is practicing her guitar and the puppies are both sleeping. I should take advantage of the peace to get a few things done before the chaos begins again!

My blog has been dead!

2008-11-08T11:02:00.002-05:00

I think I spend too much time reading other people's blogs and not enough time posting here! I need to kick it up!

My Mom is coming!!!

2008-08-14T08:21:00.002-04:00

I am so excited! We were able to get her a plane ticket with sme unused points on our one credit card!
She missed her flight this morning, but is still on her way. It just gives me a few extra hours to spiff up the house!
She is coming to see Ryne off on his first day of school, something she has done for all of her grandkids.
I also have a pretty long list of projects for her to help me with, so its really a working vacation!
She'll be here in 6 hours!!!! Yay!!

It only took a few days!

2008-08-05T15:55:00.005-04:00

Blanket Chest - Before

Blanket Chest - After

Buffet - Before

Buffet - After

Now off to the bookshelves!

Before and After

2008-07-29T11:12:00.006-04:00

Here are the three things (other than work and the kiddos) that I am going to work on today. It shouldn't take me too long, but you all know how the day can fly by when your to-do list is long!

My blanket chest
This piece of furniture has lived in about every room of our home. It is now in a nook in the kitchen and it houses my placemats, table clothes and I use the top for some indoor plants and other pretties. Unfortunately, it looks like this right now:

My buffet
I picked this up at an antique store that was going out of business. I wanted something to hold my dishes and serving pieces since we don't have a dining room set. It has two drawers, one for silverware and another for placemats. I do keep some placemats and table clothes in here as well as all of our dishes and silverware. The top is supposed to showcase my "funky chicken" that was the inspiration for my kitchen as well as some other decorative pieces. Right now, it looks like this:

Bookcases
We have three in our library and they all need help! This one holds my collection of Anne Rice, Stephen King and Marion Zimmer-Bradley as well as our collection of Star Wars books. The bottom two shelves are kid's books and as you can see, they haven't been good about putting them away nicely.

Wish me luck!

One project at a time

2008-07-29T10:36:00.002-04:00

I am posting my to-do list on my sidebar to try and keep me accountable for what I need to get done this week.
I have really let me housework slide since I started working. Jeff has been great about keeping up with the dishes and laundry - he is awesome! BUT - it seems like all of my horizontal surfaces are just crammed with STUFF!
I know this might be crazy, but I am going to post before and after pictures here to show that YES! I did accomplish something today - and to share a little of my house with you!

Getting Overwhelmed!

2008-07-29T10:26:00.003-04:00

Things have been crazy around here this summer - and school starts back up in just 3 weeks!
Ashleigh is going to a summer day camp run by our local community college. The class "teachers" are all volunteers from the area and I would say that at least 50% of them are high school students. I think that it is really neat that these older kids would give up part of their summer to teach younger children about topics they are passionate about!
Ryne is counting down to kindergarten. He wasn't too thrilled about the idea until we bought his backpack! He was so excited to get a new "big boy" backpack that I keep having to hide it from him so that it stays in one piece before school starts! It is huge on him and makes this momma a little teary-eyed that her little man is ready for school.
Sean is just being himself - a ball of energy. We had a trip to the ER a few days ago to get him bandaged up. Let's just say that top bunk + ceiling fan + a little monkey jumping on the bed = 4 steri strips and some surgical glue on the noggin. Never a dull moment when Sean is around. I think he is looking forward to having me to himself once the older two go back to school.
I am working! I got a job doing admin work from home for a local business. It is difficult right now, not the work but figuring out a new schedule to accommodate everyone in my house and the work and my other outside commitments. It will take some getting used to, but I'll get it figured out.
Jeff is now working two jobs. He still works for the Mouse, but on his days off he is working for the same company I am. I know it sounds crazy, but we have a plan!
I have a massive to-do list today, so I need to get going! More on that later...

Complaining

2008-06-01T12:16:00.005-04:00

One of the blogs I read is Homemakers Cottage. In her newsletter this week, Kristy shares an excerpt from Keep A Quiet Heart, by Elisabeth Elliot about complaining.
The story she shares talks about Deuteronomy and how Moses was leading the Isrealites to the Promised Land. When they were fourteen days from the end of their journey, their complaining finally got to Moses and he was so angry, he wished he were dead! When they got there, they didn't believe that this was really the place, so they sent spies to do a little reconnasince. When the spies returned with glowing reports, they weren't believed either.
How often do we ask for God's help in our everyday lives? Then when we receive an answer, we question it or complain about it instead of thanking God for our blessings or trusting him with His plans. More often then I think most of us want to admit.
So I am taking up Kristy's challange. I am going to try to not complain for fourteen days. While I am doing this, I am going to focus on my blessings and dwell on them instead of the negative.
Would you like to join me?

Our Budget

2008-05-27T17:58:00.002-04:00

I have been trying to figure out if I have a theme to my blog. I guess one would show up if I wrote more often wouldn't it??
If you don't know me in real life, my passions (beside my family) is creating a frugal, comfy home where all of my family and friends feel welcome. My Particular Harbor - get it?
So I wanted to share with everyone how I try to do this - not always successfully, but I try!
We have a really tight budget, a mortgage payment and three kids.
My DH brings home about $500 every week after taxes. I am not sharing this to gain sympathy, just trying to be real in what we deal with.
Our mortgage payment is $1200 a month
We pay $368 in utilities. This includes our electric bill, water, phone, DSL and satellite TV
I spend about $75 a week on groceries but I am working on cutting that down.
We used to spend about $80 a week on gas, but that number has been going up!
As you can see, there is little room for extras! We have been contemplating the decision for me to go back to work so that money isn't so tight.
BUT - I feel like going back to work right now is just exchanging one set of stressors for another.
We'll see what happens in the coming weeks.

My big boy is 5 today!

2008-05-20T21:49:00.002-04:00

Ryne turned five today! Where has the time gone??

It seems like just yesterday, we were waiting for him to hurry up and get here and now he is counting down to kindergarten!

Happy Birthday Big Boy!

Donkey Tales

2008-05-17T20:45:00.000-04:00

That was the name of tonight's program at church, put on by our Children's Ministry. All three of my kids were in the performance.
Ashleigh loves to perform and does really well. She comes from a line of drama queens, so it is natural to her!
Ryne liked to sing a few of the songs, but he got bored with sitting up on "stage" pretty quicklly!
Sean happened to be sitting front and center in the chorus group and spent 1/2 the time picking his nose, yawning or waving to the audience! What a HAM!!!!
I get to take them back to church in the morning for two more performances. We'll see if we all survive......

Lots Happening!

2008-05-04T12:58:00.000-04:00

I have been acting like a hermit for the last two months. I have been overwhelmed by some personal and family stuff - financial and health wise and I am now declaring that time over!

This past week, I kicked my butt out of the house and went to MOPs for the first time in six weeks! We only have one more meeting before we break for summer. I decided to go ahead and volunteer to help with the Steering Committee next year and it looks like I am going to do the finances!

Wednesday, I went to an info meeting about the steering committee and had a chance to get to know some ladies that I have only seen in passing. And I got to spend some time with Kristina - who I think is my long lost twin. She would be the good twin of course!!!

Wednesday night, we started going back to church for the Wednesday night activities. Ashleigh is involved with the dance group and the boys each have a room upstairs where they learn about different bible verses, sing and do crafts. Sean was an angel this week (finally!) but Ryne refused to participate in ANYTHING. he just sat there! Oh well, looks like my Ryno is more of a wallflower than the other two!

Thursday we went to my ILs for a quick visit. Jeff's Grandma was in town for two days and I completely spaced about it on Wednesday! (I am a horrible granddaughter!) So the boys and I went to see her after we took Ashleigh to school. She is 91 and keeps telling me that this will be her last visit, yada yada!

Friday we went back up to the church to attend a Steering team meeting to check out what it was like and to help with summer plans. The boys played in another room with the other Committee members kids. They were some of the older ones there, but they had fun - and were well behaved!!! Yay!

Saturday, I went up to church again for a gathering of the Women's Circles. They are trying to get some "new blood" and start some new circles. They haven't done any new ones in 20 years! I have some ideas of the type of group I would like to see formed and join, but we'll see what others want too!

So I am making an effort to get out there again! And to get on here and write about it!

7 facts about me

2008-03-27T12:20:00.000-04:00

I was tagged about a week ago by Candi and I just realized how and what she wanted me to do! Sorry candi! I am a dork and still figuring out the whole meme thing!

Rules are:
1. Link to your tagger and post these rules on your blog.
2. Share 7 facts about yourself on your blog, some random, some weird.
3. Tag 7 people at the end of your post by leaving their names as well as links to their blogs.
4. Let them know they are tagged by leaving a comment on their blog.

So here are 7 things about me that you may or may not know:

1. I am the middle child of three kids. I have an older sister and younger brother. And contrary to popular belief, no I did not grow up wanting for attention! I demanded it - I am such a drama magnet.

2. Jeff and I moved our three kids cross country without a job and a house in escrow. One of the scariest and most fun times in our marriage. It has been so worth it!

3. I am a Disney freak! And it just keeps getting worse.

4. As a kid, I wanted to be a writer or an archeologist. I am fascinated by history and maybe someday I will write somethign worth publishing!

5. I want to be June Cleaver when I grow up. Did I just set the feminist movement back 50 years???

6. I am a Republican and would probably lean more toward the libertarian side in politics. I think our government is too large and our founding fathers would be spinning in their graves if they saw how monstrous it has become.

7. I loved the Gilmore girls and still watch the reruns on TV.

Now that you know what a complete weirdo I am, I am tagging:
Kristina
Leslie
Kippy
Julie
Have fun!

My List

2008-03-27T11:48:00.000-04:00

I am in the middle of reviewing the grocery ads and making a list of what I need. My list this week is a little different. We are going out of town for a few days, so I am not buying for a week's worth of menus, but a week's worth of snack and car friendly foods!
In the past year, we have slowly been cutting out alot of the typical snack items and processed food due to budget and health concerns. Well, that will partially be going out the window as we prepare for our Spring Break trip to Macon, GA!
And of course, I found some great stuff on sale this week at Winn-Dixie! They are having a 10 for $10 sale on so many items that I usually have stockpiled, that I am going to buy a few things to put in my pantry!
My list so far:
10 for $10
Coke products (I know these aren't good for me, but it is my last vice) - 2 liters I will buy 10 to have on hand = $10
Winn Dixie Pasta Sauce (I usually make my own, but its good to have in a pinch)I will buy 5 for quick weeknight meals = $5
Nesquick flavored milk (for the road trip) Qty 10 = $10
Pringles (DH's favorite for road trips!)I will get one can per person for the week 5 = $5
Rayovac Batteries - AA and AAA 4 packs (we always need these)Qty 10 = $10
Hormel Little Sizzlers (great for breakfasts - 12 in a box) Qty 10 = $10
Dole Salads I am cooking dinners while we are gone Qty 3 = $3
Gala, Red Delicious or Granny Smith apples ($1 per pound) Qty 3 lbs = $3
Some other good prices:
3 lb bag of honey tangerines - 2 for $4
Cantaloupes - 2 for $3 ( I will buy 1)
So if I get the quantities I want, my total should be $61.50.
I will still need to pack other snacks from my pantry and do some baking, but this will pretty much cover the gaps in our road trip needs!

Grocery Shopping Part 2

2008-03-27T11:29:00.000-04:00

I am trying to share some of the things I do to save money at the grocery store.
I've already talked about how I inventory my pantry, refrigerators and freezers. I talked a little about how I plan my menus and make my list. I want to revisit that whole list thing!
I have found that most people fall into one of three categories when it comes to their shopping:
1. They make a list of loss leaders and plan their menus around what is on sale that week.
2. They create a pantry stockpile and plan their menus on what they have on hand and just pick up the items they need to fill in the blanks.
3. They don't do any of the above and just go to the store and throw random stuff in the cart and hope they can do something with it!

I shop with a combination of all of these!!! Well maybe not #3!

The first thing I do is review my stockpile. Thanks to my MIL and my ability to squirrel away food, our pantry stays pretty stocked. If I am low on anything or out of something, I start my list. This also works for toiletry items and cleaning products!
Then I make my menus based on what we have and what sounds good! I also take into consideration what is happening during the week. On Girl Scout nights, for instance, I try to do a crock pot meal or casserole I can make ahead so that dinner is the last thing I need to worry about as I am running out the door! Anything that I need to complete a meal on the menu gets added to the list.
Then I review the ads. I do the bulk of my shopping at Wal-mart. Since they do not publish an ad, I have to keep an idea of what the prices are. I had a price book started, but my computer ate it, so I am re-creating it. I know a lot of people have bad feeling about Wal-mart, so if you don't shop there, find a store in your area that offers the lowest prices on the items you buy most often.
I go through the other stores ads online. Most large grocery chains have their ads available online and you can even sign up to receive them before anyone else! Some also have a handy feature where you can create your list as you are going through the ad. I do this for all the stores in my area and print out the lists I create.
Since Wal-mart is the cheapest place I shop (and the furthest away from my house, I start there. I take all my lists with me. When I come across an item I know is on sale elsewhere, I compare the sale price to the Wal-mart price. If it is lower at Wal-mart, I buy it there and cross it off my list. Most of the time, I can get 95% of my list at Wal-mart cheaper than by going to three different stores and buying all the loss leaders.
When I am done at Wal-mart, if there are still a # of items on my list at another store, I head over there and pick them up. Since the other stores are on my way home from Wal-mart, I am not using any additional gas!
The most important thing to remember is to stick to your list! Yes, there are times when you come across a great deal and you will need to deviate, but more on that later!

Easter Eve

2008-03-22T16:48:00.000-04:00

Easter is tomorrow and we have been acting like hermits for about a month now. I haven't attended church in that time, barely left the house unless I had to, you get the picture.
I have been overwhelmed and stressed to the max for over a month. Nothing huge, just all of the everyday little things have gotten to me and I have reached a breaking point. I was in denial until I was ambushed by my Girl Scout co-leaders a few weeks ago. Later that same week, at a MOPs meeting, we had a family counselor give us all a "depression test". We had to answer 15 questions and rate them. We added up the points for each question and answer. Everyone had different scores, but the breakdown was: (I am paraphrasing, but you'll get the idea)
1-5 - you are doing well and have few problems
6-11 - you might want to find someone to talk to (pastor or friend)
12-18 - you need to see a professional
19+ - you need HELP!!

My score was .......22!!!!!!!!!!!

The good news is, I am starting to turn a corner. I am working really hard on sharing my burdens with my DH and journaling and I may vent more here. So, starting this week (tomorrow), my hermiting needs to change. I am the kind of person that thrives on being around others and when I get overwhelmed and depressed, I hide. That is exactly what I shouldn't do, but I do.

So if you know me IRL, and have been wondering where I have been, I'll be back!

Groceries!

2008-03-03T22:01:00.000-05:00

I am always looking at new ways I can cut our grocery budget. My goal is to spend $75 to $100 per week feeding my family of five, plus our dog. With the prices going up daily (it seems), it is getting harder and harder to do!

This is where I need to get creative and really watch where my pennies go!

Some tips I share here may seem like common sense to you, but they may be new ideas to someone else!

*Inventory your cupboards and refrigerator - I set aside about 15 minutes a week (usually Wednesday) where I go through my pantry, fridges and freezers to take stock of what I have, and I make a list of what is low and what I am out of.

*Plan a menu - nothing can eat up your food budget more than waiting until 5:00 to decide what you are having! Make a plan for a week to 10 days at a time. Just do dinners to start with. Be sure to try and use items that you already have in your "food inventory".

*Make a grocery list - your list should include all of the items you need to make the dinners on your list plus the essentials for breakfast and lunch. Stick to this list as closely as possible!

*Stick to your menu plan! Your meals can be flexible, but try to stick to what you had planned. This will keep you from running to the store to get "just one more thing".

More in another post! There are so many dimensions to this subject! I am still learning and will try to share as much as possible!

This blog is boring!!!

2008-02-24T11:55:00.000-05:00

I started this blog with the intention of sharing stuff with friends and making new ones on the internet.
I suck!
I just read through a blog written by someone I know IRL and realized that my blog would probably put her to sleep and not tell her anything about me! Sorry Kristina!
So I am re-commiting to making a post at least three times a week on this blog to try and unload some of the useless stuff that is in my brain and maybe connect with someone out there!

Sunday Seven

2008-02-03T17:09:00.000-05:00

What's on your mind?
1. I really wish we had won the lottery last night
2. Then I could pay the bills sitting here on my desk.
3. I could buy my daughter that Nintendo DS she wants.
4. I could be debt free
5. I could buy a bigger house for my family, including my parents and siblings
6. I could tithe some real money to our church, instead of my usual thin envelope with $5 in it.
7. I wouldn't need to worry about most of the other crap that is on my mind right now!

Tuesday - Christmas is still here

2008-01-08T23:02:00.000-05:00

For some reason this year, I had a hard time getting into the Christma "spirit".
Maybe it was because the Princess had a solo in our church's pageant and we started listening to Christmas carols in August. Maybe it was because this was the second year that I was away from my siblings and parents. Maybe it was because my DH worked crazy long hours and was never home.
At any rate, I felt like this year, I just went through the motions. Don't get me wrong, I enjoyed giving and receiving gifts. I enjoyed going to church on Christmas Eve. I enjoyed inheriting my MIL's nativity stable that her grandfather made her and displaying it in my own home.
It was just lacking something this year, and I can't put my finger on it.

The only problem now is that I can't seem to get my house undecorated and back to normal!!! So, my goal is to de-Christmas the house by the end of the week!!!

Have you put away your holiday decorations yet?

Sunday - 9 days to go!

2007-12-16T14:50:00.000-05:00

Nine days til Christmas! Are you ready!

We have baked off our cookies and delivered some of our boxes to neighbors and friends.
I still need to print our Christmas letter and mail it to about 25 addresses.
I also need to ship a few things to my nephews in Nebraska - I hope they get there in time for the holidays!

12 Days to go....

2007-12-13T15:45:00.000-05:00

All of our shopping is done, except for a few GC to purchase online.

I need to wrap a few more gifts, including the ones that Santa is giving the kids.

Baking and shipping out the out-of-state gifts is what I'll be doing this weekend! How about you?

Housefairy.org

2007-10-30T11:05:00.000-04:00

Can I just say that this is the best program ever?!?!?!?!?

I joined the Housefairy website a few months ago. the boys haven't caught on just yet, but my daugter is like a whole new kid.

Her room is clean. EVERYDAY. Without being asked.
Her laundry is in the hamper . EVERYDAY. Without being asked.
She does her chores. EVERYDAY. Without being aked.

She is still working on backtalking and whining about her brothers, but we are hopeful that she will turn that corner soon.

If you want your kids to help out more at home, but can't get them motivated, I would checck out housefairy.org. They aren't paying me or anything, I just really like what they have done for our family.

Why??

2007-10-30T11:01:00.001-04:00

Why is it that when you get a little ahead financially, something happens that costs the exact amount of what you have saved?

Why do I get stuck behind the tourist / slow car / bad driver when I am late for something?

Why do my children make me repeat myself four times and then wonder why I am mad that they don't listen?

Why does my husband think its okay to be pissy about something I have no control over, but if he forgets something I JUST SAID, I can't be miffed?

Why are the dishes and laundry never done???

WHY??!!???!!??!!

Sorry - Its been a while

2007-10-30T10:50:00.000-04:00

In my first post, I promised not to be boring and here I go forgetting to update my blog!!!
Things are a little crazy here. All three kids have had dental work done on a weekly basis for the last two months! They all had various procedures that needed to be done and of course, we wouldn't want to do everything in one visit. The Tank had an appointment this morning and the Princess has one this afternoon. The good news is that she is done after today and Tank has one more visit. The Philosopher is done for now.
I am a Girl Scout Leader with Princess's troop and things are in full swing there too! We had a Halloween party last night! There was enough sugar there to put a team of dentists in shock!!
The Sci-Fi guy and I celebrated our 7th wedding anniversary a few weeks ago by going to the Food and Wine Festival at EPCOT. It was a lot of fun, but would have been better if we could have spent the whole day there like we did last year. Last year we did an overnight trip, so we were able to meander through the shops, revisit some of the booths we liked and just play. This year, we only did a day trip and I was feeling the pressure to get home in time to rescue MIL who was baby-sitting for us.
I won't bore you with more details, but I promise to post more frequently!

MOPs

2007-09-13T15:34:00.000-04:00

Monday the boys and I went to our first MOPs meeting. Well, I went to the meeting while the boys played with the other MOPPETs.
It was so much fun to talk to other moms who are in the same position as I am. Raising children that are the same age as mine, struggling with the same dilemmas.
The boys did well playing with the other kids. The Tank did get a little physical with a few of the kids, but I kind of expected it. The Philospoher loved it and can't wait for the next meeting.

Missing Teeth

2007-09-04T10:57:00.000-04:00

I have been out of it for a few days. I had three wisdom teeth removed on Friday and I am in love with my pain medication. But, the next time I decide to have surgery, I am checking into a swanky hotel and not telling my husband or kids where I am.
You would think that I would get a little pampering and sympathy right???? Oh No! I got a whiny husband who is pissed off that I haven't been able to do things with and for him! Grrrr.
I missed church on Sunday and it was also my little guy's third birthday. Sorry buddy, Rice Krispy Treats will have to suffice. Mommy just isn't up to baking a cake!

First Day of First Grade

2007-08-20T22:51:00.000-04:00

Today was the Princess's first day of First Grade. She has the same group of teachers that she had last year, so only her homeroom was different. She looked so cute in her uniform with her lunchbox and backpack. She even came home tonight with homework!

When did she get so grown up??

The Beginning

2007-08-20T22:15:00.000-04:00

Well, I guess that since all of my friends are starting blogs, I should jump on the bandwagon and put one together too.

A little about me: I am a thirty-something SAHM, wife, daughter, sister, aunt and friend. I have three beautiful children that I call the Princess, the Philosopher and Sherman (like the tank). When I am not running around after them, I am meeting the needs of my husband and best friend, whom I call the Sci Fi Guy.
I love to putter in my rose garden and dream of being June Cleaver. I am a wannabe writer who needs to finish a writing project and send it on its way. I am a closet Drama Queen who likes to be the center of attention, but I am learning to share the spotlight. I embroider, cook, bake when I am stressed and spread myself too thin. I am expanding my view of my faith and learning more everyday about what I believe and why.

I hope that this blog is entertaining to some and enlightening to others. I promise to try and not be boring!