Our Hardie Home

Holiday Happenings

2012-01-06T10:14:00.007-05:00

The week before Christmas, I got to take pictures of one of the cutest couples I know.

And NO, these are not engagement photos.

My baby brothers's gf just wanted some nice pics of the two of them to hang in her apartment during the school year.

She goes to the school that must not be named, but we still think she is wonderful.

And then Christmas was a spoilfest.

My usual strictness of 3 presents, price points, and unwrapping rules were thrown out the window this year.

But don't worry, they will return next year.

It is always nice to feel like you can spoil your kids at least once in their lives.

If all goes well, they wont get one like this again for some time.

But I will be just fine with that.

You can see the Monster's "tool world" behind him. I think he goes to my work way too much, if he is calling his toys by department names :)

Don't look at me too closely. I am sleep deprived,

like so many other parents on Christmas morning.

I got two sweaters of the same style and color theme.

I must complain of being cold alot ;)

And our Holiday party this year,

rocked.

The Monte Carlo theme was a hit.

And the "just dance" game after midnight let us all work off all the deliciousness we partook of.

I would post pictures of this part of our evening, but let's just say

I am a REALLY REALLY NICE FRIEND.

Start placing your bets for next year...

2012 will be AMAZING!

Dear You,

2011-12-09T10:06:00.004-05:00

I have noticed something. It has has been a recurring theme for what seems like forever. And it needs to stop.

Have you notice what has happened to you?

Hold up mirror,

look deep into your own eyes.

Take a deep breath, and now...

Tell me three things you love about yourself.

Easy???

Now tell me three things you love about partner,

each of your kids,

your boss,

your school,

your street,

your community,

your work,

the stores you shop,

the food you eat,

the clothes you wear,

the church you may or may not attend.

Don't stop there.

you can't forget about the people sitting next to you

on the bus,

or in class,

how about the people

waiting to get their kids from school with you?

Do you see it now?

No?

then let me explain.

You complain

about your surroundings.

You are putting down your neighborhood,

the house down the street,

the store around corner,

and the sales clerk at the register.

I saw you

tapping your foot in impatience as the line in front of you is moved too slow.

I heard you

grumbling under your breath about the incompetence of the worker.

My kids heard

your annoyance as you spoke at the coupon lady.

They saw you

roll your eyes at the loud, tired and cranky child,

as you rushed to get your shopping done.

Wasn't that you, mocking the stores you shop,

the people in the aisles,

and the workers trying to make a living?

Why are you being so negative about the World?

I should rephrase.

I do not mean the whole world.

just yours.

Do your kids see it?

do they hear it when you speak?

Are you the bully your kids are imitating?

WHAT???

AM I CALLING YOU A BULLY???!!!

yup.

Because being a bully is more than just what we hear on the news.

It is more than just kids that act out in school, belittling and hurting their peers.

It is more than the hate crimes that are recorded in the papers,

seen on the television, and spoken in anger.

Did you ever think that it started with you?

that your negativity,

and judgement of just your simple surroundings,

was the first step

to creating the kid that made another's life not worth living.

All because you said,

a person's choice to

live,

work,

dress,

act,

shop,

speak

was not good enough.

You complain about a neighbors weeds,

their garbage cans rolling down the street,

the barking dog,

but you didn't think to check to see what you could do to lend a hand.

Don't deny it.

We are all guilty here.

I noticed

you go upset when you found out that your sister didn't have her kids in clean clothes.

Did you know her washer stopped working last week,

that they lost their employment,

& is just so overwhelmed with exhaustion

they just could keep up?

I bet you would hold your tongue,

just a little

if you knew she couldn't tell you because of that mouth of yours.

it is wide open,

ready to spread rumors and gossip.

How she dreads how your tongue,

cheeks,

teeth

and lips

quickly form the words used to talk behind her back.

See, you are a bully.

So I am telling you to stop, because I am tired.

Tired of the negativity we see in everything,

never giving ourselves a moment to check ourselves.

The expectation that people lie, cheat, steal.

The whole, everyone is a suspect, mentality is exhausting.

I am done

with listening to people complain about where, when, and how they shop.

I am disgusted

that we hate so many things, about every aspect of our lives.

I want my kids to see rainbows,

believe in Santa, and reach for dreams.

I want them to know that we need

mechanics, plumbers, cashiers, and farmers,

just as much and sometimes more

than a doctor or lawyer, or CEO.

I need them to find the path

that will make them feel whole,

complete,

and alive.

I want them to do it all, without fear.

Without fear they will succeed in finding, catching and holding their dreams.

So I am going to

remind myself of the joy which is my life.

EVERYDAY.

You need to do it too.

BECAUSE

I don't want YOU to ruin MY CHILD.

You may be their teacher, their couch, the family friend.

You are in their life, and probably so your kids.

And they need you to do it for them.

So stop for a moment,

and before you open your mouth.

Before you type that next status.

Make sure that the comment you are making is to help,

is constructive,

and meant to improve.

Even when it is something that we don't want to hear.

Because,

even though your truth might hurt,

they still want you to hold their hand.

Sincerely,

Vacation

2011-11-21T13:21:00.002-05:00

I love Disney.

LOVE.

The whole package deal.

Smilebox.com review, dissatisfaction.

2011-10-25T12:21:00.001-04:00

Last year, I signed up for Smilebox.com. Did their 2 week trial, liked it ok enough, and paid a whooping 40 bucks for full access to their internet friendly invitations, slide shows, and scrap-booking.

The offer a month to month or annual membership.

THE CATCH, auto renewal and no refunds.

I happened to click on our subscription program, was checking out the renewal information.

Forgot the price.

On my account page, the only way to access the information was to approve an update on my credit card.

Being stupid and naive, I did this, I just had to change the year. Clicked to update and got charged.

There was no new terms and conditions to read.

There was no price or final order approval screen.

I immediately went in to cancel the order of renewal, and found out, sure you can cancel, but we don't care that it happened 2 minutes ago, we are keeping your money.

Their reasoning is, that because over a year ago I read the term and conditions contract and agreed to it.

Yes, A YEAR AGO.

and they are not responsible if you don't go in and find it and review it, prior to accessing your account page.

I don't care that they think I should have researched deeply into their website, (which i find to be very unfriendly).

They don't care that their product is not that amazing.

I understand that prorating an annual membership is difficult, and that by not giving refunds it makes it easy on them. What I don't understand how a 2 week trial return policy can not take place on the annual membership if you have let the membership lapse.

THIEVES! As stupid as it may sound to some, I can't help but think they found a loop hole in their policies that allow them to knowingly steal from customers.

I am now out another 40 bucks (not a fortune, but half of my food budget for a week). With no account.

Thieving bunch of tech heads.

Birthday Week.

2011-08-30T10:17:00.002-04:00

Over the weekend she got to go camping with Mami and Papi, Afton, the Bowens, and her Cousins.

Sunday was cake and ice cream with Nana, Boompa, Uncle Gaelan, and a Skpe of Jenny.

Monday, Red Robin.

Tuesday, BFF is heading over for some girl time, and a sleepover.

Wedesday... HER ACTUAL BIRTHDAY!! I can not believe my sweet little baby is so big!

Anniversary Night out.

2011-08-30T10:12:00.003-04:00

Day off from work...check

Hair styled... Check

Make up one... Check

Handsome Husband ... CHECK

LATE LATE NIGHT OF FUN!!!.... CHECK

This guy makes me so happy.

Aug 1st

2011-08-30T09:48:00.004-04:00

I am officially in my 30's as of earlier this month. Nothing special, nothing new, but I still feel "young".

Maybe that is why, for my birthday weekend, while staying at our friends place, who live just a little bit north of us, I did the following:

Stayed up really really late, (but not as late as I usually do)

Ate lots and lots of pudding.

jumped on the trampoline

Dance around the bonfire

and then encouraged the kids to run outside and bang pots and pans to wake up our friends.

Today

2011-08-01T09:35:00.002-04:00

Today I will sleep a little bit more

Snuggle with the kids, while watching movies

Think about cutting a pattern or two out.

I may work on my front room

or clean out a closet

BUT

whatever I do it will be because I want to.

Today is MY day to do NOTHING.

So don't call me, or text if you think I may answer or reply.

I may ignore you at my front door

and I will probably be "forgetful" of any plans I may have made.

all because it is my day. MY DAY.

Heart's to you, oh doubting doctors... I am another year older.

ANOTHER new job

2011-07-28T19:52:00.004-04:00

Our Papa's contract has come to a stop.

Not because the time was up, mind you, but because he was offered a job with a different company.

BCBS didn't like this.

So they threw their hat into the ring.

After a week of negotiations, and each offer being adjusted, we were able to sit down and breath, for the first time in over 2 years.

I am grateful that we now can focus on saving for savings sake, and not because "what if" the contract isn't extended.

Grateful to know that our bills will be covered, and people we owe can start believing that we will pay them back.

I am even thrilled that this new job means new contacts, friends, and just to have this cloud finally move on to the next unsuspecting family.

(I hope this isn't yours).

But I am very sad that we couldn't stay with BCBS.

Even more so now.

Today, about 4 hours after Papa faxed his contract to the new company, BCBS came back with another offer.

This one would have been just right, and now we feel stuck with keeping the other job.

Why??

A handful of reasons.

One, concern for a friend who helped him land this job. If he backed on the deal now, how would he handle it, plus how would his career suffer. He basically said if you don't hire (papa) you are stupid.

Probably not in so many words, but still he stuck his professional neck out there.

We heart him.

2nd, integrity. Following through on what he said he would do.

Is it enough to pass by the BCBS offer? I guess.

But I will always wonder.

Projects

2011-07-20T16:16:00.002-04:00

I have a huge list of things to get done.

55 things to get done by the fall.

I have almost finished 2.

It is extremely hard to get anything done.

Then I added a few extra projects.

So make that 58.

58 wonderfully necessary but so time consuming things to get done.

(sigh)

oh let's just go get some ice cream instead.

Thursday Rocked because...

2011-06-10T12:25:00.006-04:00

Papa skipped school, so we got to spend some quality time with this guy,

and I suggested this.

and I got it.

The kids were pretty psyched too.

I also mentioned that Papa could set up this,

Just to check for mold.

We haven't used it in a while and it was sitting on the garage floor.

It must have fallen off the shelf.

And because our Papa made sure the tent was all ship shape, next month we will be sudo-camping at a friends house

(cause they party hard and we wont be driving home at 2am)

AND,

If the rain stays away

the Monster will finally get to go on a Father Son Camp-out.

even if it is in our own backyard.

Another PLUS of a Potty Trained Little Boy.

Life as we know it..

2011-06-04T04:37:00.002-04:00

IS...

hectic

overworked

exhausting

Our new schedules of work and school are making it very difficult to do anything else but sleep when I am home.

Nothing new to report on our end.

I just can't resist

2011-06-04T04:05:00.005-04:00

As a baby gift, I volunteered to try to get a couple of cute pics of my friend during her LAST pregnancy.

As confident as I was trying to be, I wasn't sure how I would be trying to capture people I only get to see every couple of months.

I don't know why I was so worried.

This family was BORN FOR THIS!

I haven't had time to really go through them yet,

but I am too excited to not show them off.

I wanted to keep the kids busy, while I was trying to take pictures of their mom.

I think it worked.

Her first born loves his new baby sister. I just wish I could have made the baby bump more exposed, but he was so excited to snuggle up to his Mom. I love how calm he looks.

Mrs. Sass

This little miss was infatuated with the bubble blower that I brought.

I wanted a way to incorporate the idea that this is Baby #4. I remembered Papa's Cousin mentioning how her youngest was decorating her babies by sticking stickers on very pregnant with 2 belly.

No stickers, a little messy, but so worth the time.

I love this Family!!

Daddy is so excited for this baby. I told them to just relax and do whatever they wanted to try to get photographed. My favorite is a shot of her cleaning smooch off his face, but he just couldn't keep his hands off her belly. He was so stinkin' cute!

My favorite shot of her is this one. We were both really excited to try this out, and when we saw how it photographed we were speechless.

It is EXTREMELY easy to photograph the BEAUTIFUL.

i got a new phone

2011-05-01T13:04:00.002-04:00

not that it is super big news, but look what I can do. while sitting in the break room at lunch. now if only i could figure out how to post pictures of these crazy fun people.

Nothing new

2011-04-28T15:03:00.004-04:00

I am tired. Super duper, over extended tired.

But I really love working weekends.

I don't really miss church, or the socialization, as I get plenty of it as I get asked what aisle has the nice girl like me.

sweet, old men.

I love them.

Papa is working, two weeks now, and I think he will like it. Once this crazy hectic school schedule he planned for is over. I am already wishing my summer away, just because I know what May, June and July will bring.

Monkey is also wishing her summer to get here sooner than later. We have plans of learning how to properly tumble, use a trampoline, execute a cartwheel, and defeated that whole learning to ride a bike issue. I am way over protective to let her completely try. BAD MAMA.

She also is going to get proper instruction in watercolors. Don't be surprised if you get a hand made creation for Christmas.

Monster is, as he always is. And one added bit of info, we have a nudist in our midst.

I guess it will save on summer clothes.

News Alert!

2011-04-07T14:46:00.002-04:00

This just in...

A contract to hire position has been acquired by one incredibly brilliant man.

Starts... NEXT WEEK.

Don't ask about details, I am still unsure of them.

And I am keeping my weekend job (it makes me super happy, even if exhausted).

Fingers crossed that in 6 months time I am totally excited for our Disney trip AND a Full Time Hire with Blue Cross Blue Shield.

Monster

2011-04-01T09:21:00.006-04:00

My sweet little Mister

How delicious.

My Super Man had his birthday. I can not believe he is 3.

Where did my sweet little baby go?

Ok let's be honest, maybe not sweet,

but he was the most snack-able child ever.

I could nibble on his neck all day.

Monster is huge into super heroes.

He will watch Superman II for days on end.

He believes a couch should be a launching pad, naps are an option, and that he is the BOSS.

Do not leave out anything that might hint a sweet and sugary, or he will take a bit, and he loves, loves, loves to be with his Sister.

And I was thinking Monster was getting big, but look, Monkey at his age!

I can't believe she is so big!

I guess I am getting older.

And the best part of him growing up???

NO MORE DIAPERS!!!

Of my two kids (although Papa might protest) Monster was easier in completely this event.

Now he gets to go camping with Boompa and Uncles.

Sleepover at Mamie and Papi's.

And most important of all, he got his new babies.

Monster is turning 3

2011-03-10T13:36:00.004-05:00

Last Sunday, my parents brought home our kids, after keeping them for a few days. I love weekends like that. It might be the last time for awhile for me to take advantage of a weekend sleepover.

Fingers crossed I will be working soon. Even if it means I will become inactive.

Sorry Church, right now, this is what we need.

While they were here, we did a birthday party #1 for Monster. He usually gets two, one for each of our families. There is just too many of us. This part of the party was spider-man, NEXT Super-Man. He is in LOVE with Superheros lately.

He was super excited to get his gear set and his very own Pillow Pet.

I can't believe he is so OLD.

Do you have a superman in the house?

2011-02-24T19:37:00.002-05:00

I am on the hunt...

these are the undies my potty training tot want. Too bad they are only for BIG boys. He is not a huge fan of the kind that have Superman on them, but he said they will do.

Day One done, and he even asked for help to take off the diaper post pj's so he could do his business.

FINGERS CROSSED

Crafty Girlie finishing up her Valentines

2011-02-13T20:37:00.001-05:00

My Table has been taken over by LOVE

I never knew it could be so Pink.

Challenges continue...

2011-02-09T08:36:00.003-05:00

One of my "goals" for the next 3 weeks is to get up a 6:30, each morning.

I am on day 2, I was awake at the designated time, but I closed my eyes for just a minute today and it was 7:30.

I swear, I have good intentions, just am so TIRED!!!

Yesterday, I might have gotten up, but Monster came in and snuggled.

wait, maybe that was this morning.

I love it when my boys make a Mama sandwich, it keeps me warm and cozy.

I applaud those of you out there that get up at 5 to do a full fledge workout, make a hearty breakfast, and get three loads of laundry in. Those women who are dressed, in heels heading out the door to work a 9 or 10 hour work day.

I am just not one of those people.

Give me Midnights.

This is going to be alot harder than I thought, maybe this should be a year goal.

Yes that sounds good.

Come New Year 2012, I will finally get myself out of bed by 630.

who is with me??

My Nursery Girls

2011-02-07T21:05:00.003-05:00

Monster, one other little boy, and half a dozen girls plus one?

By then end of April we will be overrun with dresses, babies and curls.

One girlie loves me lots... (lots of cuddles, smiles, and hugs)

another prefers Papa.... (I sent her parents away, she cried and glared)

There are two sweeties that are just happy to play,

a third who is so excited to come to nursery she followed me down the hall and joined the fun.

The last two come with curls right in the middle of their foreheads...

Now who was it that said Nursery was a one year calling??

Just kidding, I LOVE MY NURSERY KIDS!

Dinner Time Antics.

2011-02-05T19:39:00.002-05:00

Monkey's Valentines

2011-02-02T17:40:00.010-05:00

Sticky Hands, Warm Hearts made personally by Monkey. Who needs boxed valentines, when you can have a heart made specially for you with love.

THIS project was found in our Family Fun Magazine. It had the cutest picture of a girl who looked about 5, so we figured it was pretty easy. We made 36 and it took 4 hours. That little girl in the magazine didn't do anything but smoosh the yarn down at the end, I am sure of it.

We of course didn't have all the necessary items to recreate it exactly, but we improvised and improved the idea, if only by adding some glitter.

We like to sparkle.

First we had to be sure we had read all the instructions, and cut out our yarn.

because we didn't have a heart shape cookie cutter to just pile the yarn after running it in glue, we tied a knot in the middle of the yarn to help keep the pointed shape of the heart.

We also traced a heart shape on our parchment paper to follow a pattern.

We mixed glitter in our cornstarch glue. It was a bit thick so we added extra "hot" water to get it to the right amount of pasty.

Carefully we then traced the heart with our "shape" yarn to create a dam of sorts. Not only did it serve as the outline of our hearts, but would help us keep the yarn in place that was going to be used as fill.

Don't forget to really slide the extra goop off the yarn.

Then we just tossed a bunch of yarn pieces into the glue, mixed it really well, strained it through our fingers, and twirled it into the heart shapes.

Added some extra yarn for hanging, and will add a chocolate with a flat bottom in the center for Valentine's Day. We can only have sweets in our house so far in advance or they get eaten.

someone has a sweet tooth at our place.

I moved my dinner menu

2011-02-02T17:29:00.001-05:00

Sorry I forgot to actually mention that I did in fact move my food blog. Not that it is a big deal, but I was filling up my normal blog with food, and not enough family.

http://latranquilite.blogspot.com/

Please Mama

2011-01-31T15:17:00.002-05:00

We had visitors today. Two beautiful golden retrievers.

They had collars, but no tags.

I opened the door, it was cold outside. They saw Monster, and slowly positioned themselves to come inside.

We had to call the Police, just to see where to take them. We really couldn't keep them.

Monster will have a farm someday. Animals just love this kid.

Should have snapped a photo.

2011-01-31T14:57:00.001-05:00

My Food Addiction is taking over the family blog... guess I need to dedicate a new one... see more details to the left and below.

Sunday Leftover Day

2011-01-30T08:52:00.002-05:00

I love having enough dinner for a repeat day.

Especially when I don't want to cook.

Sundays are not fun.

As a side note, I made a frittata for breakfast, and cookies for dinner. Don't want to get lazy.

Parsnip, Eggplant and Cashew Biryani

2011-01-29T18:21:00.005-05:00

I have looked at this recipe for years, and have always been intimidated by it. If only because of the long list of ingredients, and the many, many steps to create it. As it stands I have 5 bowls sitting in my sink, along with 2 pans, two knives, a cookie sheet, 3 measuring cups, an a baking dish.

Papa has clean up duty...hehehehe.

Before I can re-create this at a later time I am going to need one of the items from my wish list.

Actually maybe 2 things.

Our Biryani, was found in my Vegetarian Cookbook, and was so lengthy in the steps to make it, that the above link is the closest to it I found online.

While Monkey had her super cute friend B over this afternoon, I decided to set out all the ingredients. I love produce all spread out on the counter! It made me start itching to cook, so I got started.

It was 2:30.

I was concerned about having dinner ready at 4, and dealing with "not hungry" kids. I shouldn't have been, as it was 90 minutes of prep, including browning. Then another hour of simmering, then baking. We were sitting down just at 5.

This is a Saturday only meal.

I can not ever think of I time I knowingly ate a Parsnip. I didn't even know how to core it, and still don't, so if you do drop me a line. The combination of the spices and veggies was surprisingly sweet.

That must be because I dipped my finger in it.

Also, have you ever had a golden raisin?? I am very interested in knowing what kind of grape they are from.

Guess I am going to learn a few things with this cooking challenge.

baked spaghetti squash

2011-01-28T19:26:00.003-05:00

Lasagna out of a squash, talk about no carbing it. This Recipe here, was filling and not heavy, like a pasta version of it can be.

Papa thought it was more like a spaghetti than a lasagna. I kinda agree, but there is a few things that were really good, and will repeat in other dishes, like making my own sauce for this dish. A sweet basil tomato sauce, that was so much better than anything I have tasted from a jar. I always forget how much I used to like making my own sauce with my dad.

We aren't going to discuss the kid's reaction to this. They get their taste buds from the other side of the family.

2011-01-27T19:33:00.000-05:00

February 22

Easy Mashed Potato and Roasted Vegetable Enchiladas

2011-01-27T17:31:00.002-05:00

Monkey said, "give this a 10", too bad our scale is only 1-5.

She loved it.

Filled with mashed potatoes that literally "ate" the enchilada sauce, and wrapped in a crepe, tonight's dinner is going down on her favorite list.

Of course, because I was starving from two days of crackers, soda and "lemoncello", (wink, wink) the basic recipe they offer here, just wasn't exactly what I wanted, so I tweaked it, just a little.

We omitted the broccoli, (gassy food to begin with, and something to be avoided after a sick tummy), forget about mushrooms, Papa wont eat fungus. We added yellow squash, changed the corn tortilla to a crepe. And I am not a huge fan of red sauce, so we opted to make this Verde.

Then we topped it with sour cream, salsa, tomatoes, and lettuce. wished I had made a side of beans and rice.

I need to find an amazingly good, simple corn tortilla recipe. Store brand always breaks and is way too dry.

This would have rocked the corn.

Sick Day #2

2011-01-26T16:48:00.006-05:00

I wasn't going to cook dinner tonight. I am exhausted, my head hurts, and although I have been able to keep foods down today, I still feel sick from an achy, achy body.

I tried to pass the torch tonight to Papa, I had high hopes.

It didn't fly.

How can I tell my sweet, tired, cranky, stressed man

"I can't make you dinner before you go to school tonight? Starve until 10pm or make it yourself",

how cruel could I be?

So dragging myself from bed, I decided to make what seemed pretty simple.

It was, I just took an hour prepping because I couldn't keep my hands from shaking in rythm to the pounding in my head.

Dinner tonight????

Vegetable Pilaf.

This is something that would go extremely well if I wanted to add some Chicken to it. That would have made the Monkey happy. She picked out each individual piece, complained, cried, and then wanted to not eat the carrots, because she was sure it was either tomato or pepper.

I loved it, Chris really liked it. It's the whole rice issue that the kids didn't.

TOO FREAKIN' BAD!!

The only downside to this meal, the smell. It was glorious, sweet, exotic, and exactly the smell that wafted into our apartment for 6 months before Monkey was born.

I made me barf everyday.

Why would I pick this to make the day after I had a very strong reminder of that "grand" time.

Still, it was delicious.

Tuesday BLAHS

2011-01-25T21:00:00.000-05:00

Today was NOT a good day, if only because I had gotten sick overnight. Papa was wonderful, taking care of the kids, and letting me rest all day. If he had been working, it wouldn't have gone so smoothly, I am sure. Silver lining, Silver lining....

So I had this...

Papa did make up some of the Cheese Ravioli and Red Sauce for the rest of the non-sickies.

He is so wonderful. All that chicken, and beef just sitting in the freezer, and he still chose to not make up hamburger helper, but stick to my goal of vegetarian.

I wonder if he will be this great if I add a Vegan Trial to my list of 3 week goals this year?

Black Bean Burgers

2011-01-24T17:37:00.007-05:00

YUM!!

What else is there to say. I have always liked Boca Burgers, and these top those 100%!!!

I almost (and I say that loosely) had the kids fooled. Monkey was a few bites in before she asked what was in them, and that was due to the peppers and onions in the burger.

We topped ours with cheddar cheese, tomatoes, lettuce and BBQ sauce. Baby Ray's makes everything taste like summer nights.

Just needed one of these...

and it would have almost been enough to forget about the snow that has been piling up all day.

I hate snow.

We froze half of our leftovers, and the other will be consumed for Lunch tomorrow.

I would also like to state that our

Belle-arina,

whose Mama is the queen of southern BBQ around here,

took a few bites and gave me the

stink eye.

She was not keen on what she thought was delicious BBQ, was just a pale substitution.

Recipe available here. We substituted the hot sauce/chili sauce for ketchup. I was not about to give anyone an excuse to complain of the "spicy, hot" that is ever present in my cooking.

I still have not figured out what they are talking about.

Weekend Menu

2011-01-23T20:33:00.005-05:00

We ate the remaining Ziti on Saturday, as pasta is always better the second day around. With it, we again paired it with the apples and butternut squash, but we did change it up by adding cranberries. Super yummy and no issues eating that here. At least not too many.

4th Sunday evenings are spent at my inlaws, so Dinner was not my choice or idea, but we made it work, with a make your own pizza night.

It was awesome because the kids made ours. We each wrote down what toppings we liked and had a one of the kids (Hardie or Hemingway) create. I wish I had thought to pull out my camera when mine was delivered, as Fia Bia made me a smiley face creation. (added 1/24 @ 12pm, Our Afton took a picture while they were finishing the pizza's up, you can see mine with G-Man)

Pineapple eyes, nose and earrings, with a green pepper smile.

SUPER CUTE!!

I was even more please with my family, especially our Papa.

Although I told them if they needed to cheat on my plans of all veggie that it would be ok, I was totally floored when Papa had the same pizza toppings as me, and Monkey had just cheese. I would have liked her to have at least one veggie on, but I was very happy that she didn't load it up with ham, sausage, and pepperoni. Monster doesn't count, as I think Mami made it for him and he just picked whatever.

To make me feel that I made something from scratch, homemade, and vegetarian this morning I made these:

Banana-Chocolate Chip Pancakes. No pre-mixed batter.

I guess these little suckers

don't exactly count, as homemade,

as I didn't mix a batch of chocolaty goodness, and I don't own a banana tree, but it wasn't from a Jiffy Box either. And my SIL will love that I didn't have syrup on it... no corn syrup found in this AM breakfast.

I think tomorrow will be burger night... can't wait to see how that goes.

Bake Ziti and Apples with Squash

2011-01-21T17:02:00.004-05:00

My fruitarian had no issues eating this side dish. Why would he, it is full of apples, brown sugar, and butternut squash.

Monkey was not happy. She is getting tired of eating vegetables, fruit, beans, rice, and anything else I am "torturing her" with. I ended up threatening to make the family a vegetarian household for good if she didn't stop whining every time we eat together. After-all if she is going to complain about everything (and I mean EVERYTHING) I might as well eat what I like.

Ziti is nothing new here, in fact I chose this dinner selection because it wasn't new, we have it at least once a month, and usually DON'T have leftovers. The apples and butternut squash combo however, that was a new vegetarian addition tonight. Ziti qualifies as long as you aren't one of those families that load it up with sausage, hamburger, turkey meat, or whatever other ground animal you like.

My Father would like this side dish, it covers his two fruits or veggies rule. Dinner isn't dinner if you don't have two different sides. And Corn and Mashed Potatoes don't count (2 starches)!!!

I better give Mother the recipe.

From Family Fun (one of my favorite magazines!! Thank You Afton!)

Give it an "A." Just one cup of butternut squash boasts close to three times the recommended daily allowance of vitamin A*. It's also high in vitamin C and a good source of fiber, magnesium, and potassium. Need a kid-pleasing recipe? Try this sweet and savory side dish.

Serves: 6

Total Time: about 1 hour

Ingredients

1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 butternut squash (about 2 pounds), peeled and cut into ¾-inch cubes
3 medium apples, peeled, cored, and cut into small cubes
¼ cup brown sugar

1 tablespoon flour
½ teaspoon cinnamon
2 tablespoons butter, melted

Warm over to 350 degrees.

Put vegetable oil in a 13x9 baking dish, toss chopped squash and apples gently in dish.

Melt Butter. Mix brown sugar, flour and cinnamon, and sprinkle on the top of the chopped squash and Apples. Pour Melted butter on top, and place in the over for 45 minutes or until tender.

Leftovers?? I don't know what you are talking about!!

2011-01-20T16:48:00.005-05:00

My picky eaters are never fans of anything more than once. This often leaves me with coming up with ways to hide and conceal last nights meal. Last week chicken noodle soup turned into Shepard's pie. Yesterday's dinner with it's spicy beans, rice, salsa, (still meatless) would make a family favorite with NO PROBLEM! Super SIMPLE, and AMAZING!

Burrito nights always go well in this house, we make everything we can into them.

Tortilla Roll-ups are HUGE in this house.

Tonight we added the following:

See that fresh bowl of green, the picture isn't great, BUT it is just made, super fresh, guacamole. I even let the Monkey try her hand at slicing/dicing/scooping the avocado.

SHE LIKES IT!!!

(it still took an hour for her to eat it. AAARRRGGGHHHH!!!!)

As a side note: Monster is sick, so I don't know how a 2 year old feels on this recycled menu item.

Spicy Mexican Style Zucchini Casserole

2011-01-19T16:50:00.003-05:00

When I saw this recipe, I was super excited. I really like zucchini, I like it in anything and everything. Breads, Cookies, salad, facials, you name it. This is a very versatile veggie, and I know where to find a backyard garden to grow plenty of it come Summer.

Don't look too close at the picture, Chef Anne would be disgusted at the sloppy presentation.

Our Monkey was not sure of it, and did complain, but only because it was SPICY. I thought the spice was just right, but I have a desensitized section of taste buds from years of training. So MIL, it has a kick. An easy solution, use mild salsa, and no or half the cayenne pepper.

If was extremely filling. Pinto Beans, Salsa, Rice, Cheese, Zucchini, Onions, Spices and paired with Tortilla Chips and Sour Cream. I would compare it to a version of a meat-less Mexican Bake, or Taco Salad. I will be doing this one again.

You Can Find this recipe here:

http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Spicy-Mexican-Style-Zucchini-Casserole/Detail.aspx

My absolute favorite thing about this meal, only 1 hour total, to create. And on the site you can up your serving size to make as little or as much as you like. We did ours for 8 Servings, and will be having this again tomorrow night...unless Papa gets hungry around Midnight.

Greek Cheese and Potato Patties with Carrot and Cilantro Soup

2011-01-18T12:53:00.005-05:00

This wasn't my first choice for today, but Yesterday the Monkey started to get sick. Picking this Dinner option was purely on what would be easy on her stomach, as I wasn't about to fight a semi-sick kid to eat rice (one of her most detested grains).

It smelled so good.

I loved the chopping and snapping sound the veggies made while I diced and prepped.

The smell of fresh Dill is amazing in Potatoes.

The smell of fresh cilantro is mouth watering.

This is how winter smells to me.

UNFORTUNATELY...

The kids hated it!! I was am not surprised. There was an issue with NO MEAT from a very grumpy, hungry girl, and the Monster wanted to stir it more than eat. I think the idea of a pureed style soup bewildered him.

I am glad that I planned the Potato Patties to go along with the meal, as this isn't a hearty soup that fills you up. I also threw in some fresh ciabatta (?) bread.

I don't see a repeat of the soup anytime soon. It was just ok, it can't stand next to my pumpkin soup, and nothing in the world is as good as a bowl of Tomato. The Potatoes were yummy, but we had to eat them piping hot, or they just weren't appetizing. I wouldn't serve them at a party, but I would make them as hash browns to go with a cheese omelet....hmmmm that sounds good.

I know what Chris will be having in the morning.

Change up on the Challenge

2011-01-17T14:26:00.002-05:00

I am going to give my family a break and not do a SOLID month of veggie only meals, but do two weeks , then mix up two weeks with half and half. After all, my goal isn't to become a complete vegetarian again, but to try to change up my eating habits. The trade-off for them: it starts tomorrow!! Grocery Store here I come!

But let me diverge a moment and break down of what I have already done for January.

NO CARBONATED BEVERAGES!

Can you believe it?? I have been a hard core, diet coke/dr. pepper drinker, for what feels like forever, but definitely since high school, when you could grab one from the vending machine all day long. But I can't keep the stuff in the house, or it is the ONLY thing I will drink.

So I have been replacing it with lots of herb teas. 17 days, and I only had a teeny tiny bit this last weekend and at a B-Day Party. It was to chaotic to navigate the kitchen there, and I had forgotten my mug at home :(

This has been very hard, only because when I am thirsty I think Diet Coke. So it is an much changing my idea of what I associate with hydration.

It also cost so much to drink Sodas. It is up to 5 bucks for a 12 pack if it isn't on sale. And that isn't with the can deposit.

The next thing on my list,

replacing box meals with lots of veggies. This is why I am leaning toward a vegetarian diet. That and I HATE box meals with a vengeance. I find them gross, unappetizing, and ew-yucky! The one and only reason I buy and make this disgusting dinner option...the KIDS, all three of them. Yes, I am counting the Papa in there.

Not the our Papa wouldn't love to eat any other number of options, but he doesn't make a sour face if we make it. The other two gobble them up, as I pick at mine, the way the Monkey picks at a salad.

That is the next reason to why the increase in vegetable awareness. Monkey hates Veggies, which is crazy, because she used to love them. A re-introduction is a must.

The saddest part of this whole thing... I LOVE TO COOK. It makes me happy, and yet my kids prefer the over processed stuff. I guess all kids love things with superheros, cartoon characters, and suger. Maybe I could hire a little help...

So as our Monkey sits on the couch with her DS, I am sorting through the millions of vegetarian dishes online, and through my cookbooks, I am so excited for this!

A breif vent and Our Challenge

2011-01-16T20:50:00.005-05:00

With our newest round of UE we have just gotten all set up with Food Assitance, and let's just say, if you have ever had the wonderful opportunity to need assistance, the amount of help you get is ridiculous. I mean it too. As long as you file the paperwork correctly.

Last time we did the whole Food Help, we got a little more than what I normally plan and spend, which is to say not a whole lot. But the kids got fruit snacks for the first time ever, as just a fun snack to have in the house. I don't do snacks, so this was a HUGE deal in our house.

Now with our 2nd round of UE, no savings, no income in between last paycheck (12/30) to UE help (1/28) we again get to benefit from the DHS Department for Food.

I am not ashamed of getting the help, but I am so embarrassed by the amount the state feels a family of 4 needs to feed themselves. It is no wonder that we are so obese in America.

I am already feeling so guilty that we will have so much money to purchase food, I might end up feeding the family down the street, around the corner, and across town.

I think what kind of bothers me the most is that, because we have 0 income, we get a higher food help. Once we start collecting UE it will get lowered, and we do not have any idea by how much.

I would gladly lower my food benefits by 200-300 and have it go directly to an electric/gas bill, phone bill, or help cover housing. Let them the information needed for a direct payment to the companies that are on the bills, with a huge sigh of relief, tears in my eyes and singing hallelujah.

OR...how about adding toilet paper, toothpaste, and "necessities" to the approved items to be purchased.

But as much as I think it is too much, I am not about to say, "hey take some of my food benefits away from me", because

1. I have to restock our food storage,

2. I tend to feed anyone that steps foot in my door.

3. I am afraid that if we complain, it will ALL vanish (I have heard horror stories).

So I guess we can be super healthy for this next year, or at least till Papa gets a job.

Which leads me to OUR CHALLENGE...

with the mention of me feeding anyone that walks in our door, let me warn you, February is Vegetarian Month at our House.

One whole month with NO MEAT!!

I spent 7 years being vegetarian. Then I got pregnant with the Monkey, craved Meat so bad, that I think I ate a whole cow by myself. Since then I haven't had the time, energy or money to really focus on a vegetarian diet.

I kinda spilled the beans with the fam. at dinner tonight. Not the best reaction, but they will just have to deal.

Maybe I will slip in a meat dinner on Sundays... but don't count on it.

Super Awesome, totally wonderful Friends...

2011-01-08T14:45:00.006-05:00

are those who are willing to wear masks to a themed New Years Eve Party.

maybe it helps for them to feel secure knowing incriminating photos will be hidden behind their mask? Who really wants to know about their "mild-mannered alter ego or anything like that. I mean, you tell me you're, uh, super-mega-ultra-lightning babe? That's all right with me. I'm good. I'm good."

Can't wait till next year, many a wife thought a costume party for New Years sounded awesome!!

Are you ready to try your hand at a Hardie Home celebration???

NYE EVE PRESENT

2011-01-02T19:03:00.003-05:00

My Baby rocks, see what he agreed to do (with a friend) after I saw it and asked him to. I guess he can't resist my big shining eyes when ask "please".

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zHaZpZxI5lI

And for those of you who didn't make it to our Bash, you know who you are, you missed such an amazing time. Plan ahead, we are going to do it again, next NYE. Find your babysitters now.

You can't jinx bad news, can you?

2010-12-21T14:03:00.004-05:00

two days and counting...That is when we will once again have papa home with us all the time. What a way to start the year.

The GD Contract will be up, but in reality, it was extended 6 months further than we had expected. It helped us get a few needed things done, as well as a couple nice things, but all in all, we are sitting in the same if not worse spot we were in this time last year. He will at least have school to keep him busy this time around.

But I do like having him home... silver lining, silver lining...

Facebook year end review

2010-12-07T10:28:00.001-05:00

I thought that blogging helped me remember, but this year end review of status updates helped me remember my exact emotion on any particular day. How awesome is this??!!

2010-11-26T22:55:00.000-05:00

Baptism

2010-11-23T11:07:00.004-05:00

Monkey took the plunge this past weekend, and for all the worry, it wasn't half bad. Of course a few things didn't go exactly as I had hoped, but that was tiny little details (pictures didn't get printed on the vellum dividers, forgot to take pictures of the men, etc.).

The room was quiet during the Baptism, the kids colored their pages reverently as she changed, all while Grandma Shirley played the piano.

Sometimes, even when I am not in "fun rachel" mode, things turn out ok.

Nana made her Baptism outfit. Now it sits with her tiny blessing dress. (sigh)

uncle eric

2010-10-06T14:17:00.009-04:00

this is uncle eric.

as you can see he is a frog, at least when he is out to sea.

But he wanted to be sure to spend some quality time with his nephew.

And he wanted to be apart of all the fun.

So in honor of what we were told is a "bottomless pit"

we let "Froggy Eric" order the thing he wanted most on the menu.

he wait's patiently...

YUM!!!

He did have to share ;)

DISNEY FUN!!

2010-10-06T11:27:00.002-04:00

Our Annual DVC trip has just finished!! Here is bunch of photos of our fun. Aunt Jenny was able to fly out to meet us there too!!

Next year, CHRISTMAS!! (as long as papa is working)

Customize a photo slideshow

white dress

2010-09-14T11:18:00.002-04:00

We had our Monkey's birthday pictures done this past weekend. I don't want to brag, but I think I am pretty darn good at this whole picture taking thing. Well I can't brag too much, after all the subject want to be a model someday. (I think she practices her poses when we aren't looking)

What do you think....

ps the slide show is a bit long, get a snack, a soda, and a comfy seat.

2010-09-14T11:17:00.001-04:00

Create your own free photo slideshow

2010-09-07T17:19:00.000-04:00

3rd Grader!! When am I allowed to stop time??

First Day of School.

2010-09-07T09:31:00.002-04:00

Off for the Last, First Day of Beacon!!

Just because I love this Man.

2010-08-30T13:23:00.003-04:00

11 years,

2 kids,

1 dog,

1 house,

1 term of unemployment,

2 car thief's, 1 flooded basement,

construction, craft, kid mess everywhere (all the time),

lots of parties, 2am feedings, night school,

baseball games, jazz clubs, Sunday Football Nap time

road trips, Disneyworld, Paris, Loire Valley

and all of it with my BEST friend.

Happy Anniversary!

Slumber Party Traditions

2010-08-30T13:09:00.003-04:00

I was recently informed that there are some families opting to not allow their children to do sleepovers. It is so sad that we live in a time when we can't trust of friends and families enough. Some of my best memories are of late night giggles, with my bestest friends, makeovers, and dancing all night.

Not to mention the occasional grumpy daddy, telling us to go to sleep.

I am so pleased that these girls parents, for now, don't seem to mind.

Monkey was able to have a slamming slumber party, that lasted well into the morning. Although a couple had to leave early (feeling sick, both home and physical) I am sure a bunch of tired girls were plenty cranky for their families the next day!

The girls made their own oatmeal, banana, and yogurt facial masks. It was so much fun, and even though it smelled like dirty diapers, rotten baby food, leftovers, etc (their words, not mine) they were all more than happy to have it applied to their faces, complete with cucumber eye masks.

Following the relaxation and washing off, that oatmeal and bananas bring, the girls were even more excited about their brown sugar scrubs. It smelled much better, like cookies, and Christmas. It slopped all over, resulting in a very yummy floor to get cleaned, and very smooth tootsies.

I wonder how many of these girls will still keep in touch in 22 years?

Ahhh, Memories of youth...

August (nothing new for Facebook friends)

2010-08-23T08:43:00.005-04:00

This was my birthday present, even if it was a little behind on getting here.

This was the planned present, that fell through, I love that our Papa took the time to think of something that I would love to do WITH him!

because Papa has classes ALOT for another 11 semesters, we will just have to wait.

But with my Present (which i love just the same if not more) I get to do this!

baseball boys

2010-07-16T14:55:00.004-04:00

Aren't they sweet!

Worst Mama Award goes to...

2010-06-24T14:08:00.004-04:00

well, I guess it goes to me, although I think it might make me a better mama somewhere down the line.

We are not starting our summer out on a positive note. The chore list is being avoided by a certain almost 8 year old. There has been a ton of screaming and yelling. Fighting, hitting, pinching, kicking. The whining is at it's limit.

Did I mention that we are only 1 week into summer vacation?

9 more weeks of this behavior, and I will be the worst mama for other reasons.

Today, I made good on what has felt like an empty threat. Last weekend, she missed her beloved Karate, because she couldn't pick up the toys in the basement in time (fyi 4 hours later the basement was finally clear of toys on the ground, after hours filled with crying and screaming). Now, I have cancelled it till the fall.

Of course part of this cancellation goes to a lack of transportation to get her there. Chris' school schedule is already grinding my nerves, and I am so tired of not being able to keep Amandine in any type activity because of this looming issue.

The other part is the continued behavioral issues, that have got to stop.

So good-bye karate, hope to see you in the fall.

This past week in pictures

2010-06-17T15:53:00.002-04:00

with no camera, it

has become apparent, that I Facebook my phone pictures alot more than I need to. But here is what we have been doing this past week...

My Monster helped me make some crazy yummy salsa, to go with our International themed Saturday, full of World Cup games, spice, laughter, cold drinks and ...

MUD!

Being the totally awesome mom, that I rarely am, I let the kids get nice and dirty. With a backyard full of dirt, and four kids who wanted to have fun day, I let them create a mud hole. Might as well, they will NEVER get to do it again, as once the sod gets put in, no one, NOT EVEN THE DOG, gets to dig a hole.

I have also worked on finishing the trim around our door, so the curb appeal is ALMOST done. There are a few small cosmetic things to finish.

Then we got in a game at the park, which was almost not worth the hassle.

Next time I am paying for the bleacher seats as we did not sit for more than an inning, if we go on a Kid's Day again. The only thing we didn't get to do, Run the bases. We just didn't have the time (or patience) to stand in line from the 6th inning on. Maybe next time.

And of course, SCHOOL'S OUT! My 2nd grader is going to be in 3rd grade! So sad that she is growing up!

Our next big adventures.... Our cousin Texas T and his parents are coming into town this weekend. Papa and I are planning on going to Chicago for the 4th (pending any complications) either way the kids are going to Nana's. Then my big birthday bash! Who's up for the bbq, and the after party of dancing?? I am staying out till at least 2am!

Camera, I don't need no stinkin camera!!!

2010-06-06T15:05:00.002-04:00

I have been window shopping for a new camera. Something to help take many pictures in a row, in an attempt to capture the one child who will only sit still if he is duck taped to a chair. I saw a commercial for one, last year, and can't remember the brand or name, but I LOVED that it could take up to 10 shots in a row, for that perfect action shot. That is what I want.

Maybe that is why my camera is sick. It says that there is no media card to be found, and even if it was just that, the media card, I can't replace that as they don't make that kind anymore.

Guess I will just have to stick with my crackberry camera for now.

After all, I do have a birthday coming up, and I will need to document that event. Party, Party all night long!!

My new front stoop.

2010-05-25T13:37:00.004-04:00

I LOVE IT, what else is there to say?

Day one:

Demo, it took them a solid 10 hours to get the stoop removed, excavating the dirt for the planters , and laying down the crushed limestone foundation.

Only about 1/3 of the supplies came with them that day, but we weren't worried, as there was plenty of work to do, without adding to the mess.

My house was the the buzz of street.

One draw back on the first day:

the rain soaked yard.

It made for indents in the front yard, from the mounds of brick.

The damp and soggy ground also prevented even the idea to really start on the retaining walls on one side, as the ground needed extra pounding, gravel, and time to dry out. The stoop was pretty much up though at the end of day, except for the top level with the capstone and brick pavers.

3 men worked on it, 2 all day, 1 left and picked up materials, and came back to begin marking for the placement of stones.

Day Two:

The ground was still terribly wet. In order to keep within a decent time frame, there were no workers till after 2:30, (landscapers do need to cut grass when the weather is good)

It was almost convenient for us then, that the capstone I picked out and the steps were at different location (way out in Wixom!). FYI for those of you not from here, Wixom is a SOLID 45 minute drive on normal driving days, add in construction and a semi-accident backup, easily and hour and a half.

The owner of the company spent his morning picking up and delivering 3 trucks full of supplies.

I about had a heart attack watching them move my steps from off the truck to the yard. It was even worse when they were ready to install them later that evening. I counted 2 smashed finger tips.

For about 6 hours they worked on and finished the stoop, including installing the steps and brick pavers. And cutting one half of one side of the planters. There was also a delay, as the house had a support beam sticking out of the side of the house, right where the bricks needed to be. That took forever to get rid of to a point where we could work with it.

My Little Man loved helping the men. He was out there moving bricks for them, and picking up rocks. He loved helping level the leveling sand. I think he worked harder than anyone ;)

Day Three:

Finish line in sight, the workers showed up around 10, just 2 of them. They worked super hard to get all the stones cut, and laid out, putting down the extra limestone (the ground was finally at a place that they could work with it), and gluing the retaining wall bricks together. I would have never thought about using an adhesive, but I am really glad they did.

They finished the day with filling in the area near the new walls with fresh sod, and tearing up my flower beds down the walk. Christopher was happy to see them go.

Overall, I really liked working with a Landscaper. It is gorgeous work, and it didn't take very long. We have had people coming over checking it out now for a week. The mailman loves it, our neighbors are envious of it, I can't stop walking on it like a queen. I have had quite a few people ask who has done it.

SO...

Thank You A&M Landscaping of Livonia! I love my new front Yard.

PS after looking at my home for a few days, I decided to redo my front door trim. When that is done and I have added my new flowers I will post a before and after picture. UP NEXT... our backyard!

Estimate in for Landscaping

2010-04-29T11:50:00.003-04:00

Today we received our Landscaping Estimate, which will include a new stoop, steps, and two planters on either side of the stoop. The total cost for supplies $1579. Labor $2258. Grand total to repair our stoop only would have been about half @ 1918.00 with our total @ $3837.00

This is for a 4'x6'x27" stoop, made of a retaining wall bricks, glacier stone steps and a paving brick topper. In addition, we are getting two retaining wall plant beds at 20"high at 4x11 and 4x8 in length.

After much consideration, we are going to go with this guy. His work will give a nice finished look to the front of the house, all uniform in appearance, and I get plants too.

I do need to note that I am getting a cut on the landscaping cost. Typically landscaping is 2x the supply cost, which would have been $3158 alone, plus the cost of supplies. This would have been a $4377 job on normal conditions, minus plants, I would guess depending on the plants you choose, it could have been around $4600.

I got a discount on Labor for 2 reason.

1. We already did alot of prep work for them. By removing the previous garden landscaping, the tree/bush, etc we saved a whole morning of work. In addition we can reuse some of the things in our new design.

2. My little brother loves me lots. He personally knows the owner of the company and has for many years, (yeah family and friends discount!)

At this point, we are just waiting for checks to be written and cleared, and setting up a date to get working. Once they have the check, it will be within two weeks, which should give me 2-3 weeks to spare. The weather better behave!

Still to figure out... where to get flower boxes that wont cost and arm and a leg!

While I am waiting

2010-04-22T11:58:00.005-04:00

I am being proactive. During Nap time this week, I have begun to remove the "pond rocks" from the front planter, transplant my mums, remove the old retaining wall planter, and get started on digging out the Bush that sits infront of our Dining Room. Not alot to do, but so time consuming, when I only have about 3 hours a day to do it in. Monster has been helping me dig up stones and bricks all over the place.
Here he is digging away at where I hope* to have part of our patio. I also need to remember to pick up a gallon of paint. We ran out of the Dark Blue and still have to paint the back of the house brick, and one side of the houses windows!

We are hoping to transplant our Flaming Bush to behind the garage, to give Ramsey some shade near his Kennel.

The old retaining wall planters are being dug out. They are so much heavier than I remember them being, I better have some amazing arms when I am done with all this!

And these are the pond rocks I dug up from around the planter. I have yet decided if I am keeping the ones that go up the walk where they are as of yet, there are just so many!!

Now where is a Handy Husband when you need him?

Landscaper

2010-04-22T11:03:00.004-04:00

Last Friday, we had a landscaper come over to discuss what he could do for our front stoop. He is a friend of my brother, who lives way over on the other side of city, so whatever I have him do, I kinda feel like I need to make it worth his time to drive 30 minutes supplies in hand.

We discussed what I would love, (big porch, soft flower bed lines), what I needed, (the stoop and the stoop only), and overall the colors, style, and cost of the bricks, retaining wall pieces, and landscaping. He brought books, his measuring wheel, and his ideas of what could be done. He didn't give me a "look" when I whipped out a sepia print of the front of my house with my thoughts, and gave him one to take home. He explained how he wouldn't need a permit to do what I wanted, but to check anyways, as he hasn't ever done work in our city.

He actually sat down and gave out some neat ideas, and I didn't once feel rushed. He did show up late, BUT that is usually expected when my brothers are involved. He was super polite, and excited by the project. Hmmm... that contractor sure seemed like a bore at this point.

The next day, I drove out to the "yard" to check out the color samples of the paving brick and retaining walls. His suggestion of one kind of block, due to the easy calculations and strength, (thus less labor for cutting and placing) was the one I really liked, as it looked crisp and new. I did fall in love with something called Country Manor, but it had that "Old World" charm, including smooth out corners, and faded color. Christopher would not have been a fan.

So now everything was picked out. I made a list of what I wanted, (including these awesome moon shaped steps) and looked up plants and shrubs for the landscaping that will be taken out and need replacing. I just had to sit back and wait for the estimate. Oh, and I had to call the city.

THE CITY...

STOP YOUR PLANS RIGHT NOW!! DO NOT PASS GO, DO NOT COLLECT $200!!

The only good thing that came out from chatting with them, (pleasant as they are) was that I now have till June 15th to get the stoop done. HUGE relief, especially after I found out that due to an increase with new construction pulling away from the homes, we would be required to pour a new trench foundation along the existing structure, and rebar it into the walls. It wouldn't have been too bad if they only wanted a foot or so, but NO!!! They city requires a full 42" foundation, new concrete, permits, and inspections for any expansion of the original stoops, into certified porches. We could, however, use the exsisting foundation and build, no permit required, a new one with the same measurements currently in use.

I finally decided to go ahead and jump, make that leap and go big. Our landscaper would be willing to help dig the trench and attach the rebar, if we had a separate company come and pour the concrete. FYI Landscapers don't like to mess with concrete, thus the retaining wall design.

Great!! I'm dancing, I'm worried about cost, I'm scaling back on landscaping plans (flowers can wait!).

Then the clouds rolled in.

While pulling the permit, the city questions a previous repair and completely smashed all hopes and dreams of a longer porch. Our foundation, prior to our purchase, had a huge crack along that wall. If we put rebar into the already weakened structure, we may be putting the house in a position to have a wall cave in. In addition after I received this news, I checked out the warranty that came with the repair work that had been done, and we can't touch that wall by drilling into it, or we void the contract.

BLAH!

Not missing a beat, our Landscaper checked his schedule and plans to come out AGAIN, on Saturday. Remeasure the areas, and discuss options.

Based on the INITIAL estimate that has now been scrapped!

The work that would be done: Removal of current stoop, replaced with a 6x15 porch.

The result would be: A beautiful porch to sit on, and watch the kids ride their bikes between the driveways, new landscaping, and eventually a back porch.
It would be in a beautiful rustic red brick color with brick pavers on the top.
* Crushed limestone footing/foundation to stabilize. (prior to chatting with the city)
*42" rebar enforced poured concrete foundation. (post city chat)
soft lined redwood mulch plant bedding, filled with my pick of the most amazing plants, flowers and shrubs.
An additional amount of red brick pavers to put in (at our own time) a patio in the back yard, to extend our leisure area.
Oh and have I mentioned the beautiful carved stone, half moon, steps. (I think I am in LOVE!)

Estimate: Here is the not so fun part. He came to get measurements, but couldn't quote me at home, as I needed to pick out brick pattern, color, etc. Little bit disappointing

Once I had picked that, he would be able to take the measurements, and product numbers to the yard to get a price for the deposit needed to purchase supplies. This would take a few days, after all he does work 10 hour days doing landscaping, and running his own business, which is small enough that he doesn't have someone solely responsible for handling estimates.

With that in mind, I did the math, and came up with a number around $1400 for the supplies. He is trying to help with the labor cost for us, so until we know what we are doing, he is waiting to figure that in as well. BUT guesstimating, the original project would probably end up between 2700 and 3200. basically, my taste in a plants would raise the final cost, along with the labor.

The overall service of the professional giving the estimate:4* out of 5 stars Well he is a friend, so he was easier to approach. But because he is a friend, I almost feel I NEED to go with him. Which is why i am less than happy, as cutting ties with him means I put Ian in a hard place. Also I never chatted with him after the initial meet, but was on speaker phone with him and my brother. Once again because he is a friend and it was just easier for Ian to chat with me. So we will see how he really is, once he comes back over, and I throw my new plans at him. His rating may drop or rise, depending on how quickly, at this point, we can pick a date to begin work!

He may regret taking me on as a client!

More to come...

Construction Company #1

2010-04-14T10:11:00.003-04:00

In order to not endorse or embarrass a local company, I will not be posting the name or contact information.
I absolutely had NO problems with this estimator, that I would recommend them to others to get estimates on their future projects, as they may fill the need much better in some areas than others.

Estimate for our front stoop from a CONSTRUCTION COMPANY.

BORING, but hey who knows, it might give people a better idea of what to expect when getting an estimate for a porch.

Problem: We need to replace or repair our 4x6 front stoop or porch (depending on your definition. From here on out I will call it a stoop, because I AM RIGHT!)

Details: Well just look at the photo on the previous post. The solid cement steps have settled in a forward direction, resulting in a rise of 6", 7 1/2", and 8" respectively. This settling has caused the anchoring system to pull the cinder blocks forward in the front of the stoop, cracking and allowing water, de-icer, dirt, and who knows what else from damaging and exposing the stoop.

Basic Solution: Repair the absolute minimum.
Intermediate Solution: Tear out and Replace Stoop.
Grandiose Delusion Solution: Tear it out and replace with a porch.

Our Grandiose solution was suppose to happen, but not till next spring, when we hoped to have the funds saved, or allow us to take out a smallish loan to really add some curb appeal. The city forcing us to rush to get it done or have permits listed (30 days) is not allowing for us to realistically arrange this, unless it doesn't cost as much as I originally guesstimated/estimated with an online calculator. http://www.servicemagic.com/resources.estimator.Decks-And-Porches.6.html

Estimate: Company #1 LOCAL WELL KNOWN CONSTRUCTION COMPANY
Online Submission - Saturday Evening
Call Back - Monday Morning, arranged for an evening appointment the next day
Estimate Appointment - Tuesday Evening 7pm
How many people did I talk with - 1 man from start to finish (we will call him Bob)

Bob showed up just at 7pm, (points for promptness), sat in his car for just a few minutes to begin his paperwork. This allowed us to wrap up our dinner mess and do a quick pick up. He came up to the door, looked at the stoop quickly and came in. Introduced himself, said hi to the kids, remembered a spare note about my kid in karate(thus the late appointment, only available that one night or not till Saturday) shook hands and sat down at the table. He pulled out a few things, scribbled down some notes, and we headed back outside to look at what needed to be done.

He remembered to ask to see our citation notice from the city, looked it over, and chuckled at the "legal terms" and noticed that they didn't mention handrails. Talked about how the steps were in great condition, just settling forward. Checked the notice again to see if the city marked the cement walk at all, and then looked around the side, pushed on the crumbling cinder block, and tried to pull on the steps to see if they were anchored in. He briefly talked about what he would do to fix it, pulling permits, etc. We asked about maybe extending the stoop into a full porch, and showed an immediate example two doors down of what we really would like to have. He looked up and down, walked out a bit, and said that it wouldn't be a problem, he would just need to check the zone codes to be sure we weren't too close to the edge of the property line, etc. I completely understood what he was talking about (thank you arch drafting class! and HGTV!).

We wrapped up our chat, and went back inside for him to work on our quote.

It didn't take too long for him to come up with one, just shy of $2400.00. (ouch! I think he heard hubby gag)

The work that would be done:
Removal and Cleanup of top concrete slab, steps, and broken blocks.
Replacement of blocks, steps and slab.
Permits needed to be pulled.

It would not include a full tear down, and would use the original foundation/footings,(although the steps are in good condition, the placement and achoring would prevent us to reuse them.)

The result would be:
a cleaned up version of what we currently have.

BOO!! I wanted something brand new for that price! It didn't help that the calculator we used had said the cost would be less. I also figure in a "just in case" estimate increase, if something else was really wrong. That figure still didn't hit the quote.

The overall service of the professional giving the estimate:
4 out of 5 stars - he was prompt, professional, and genuinely nice. "Bob" remembered that we really needed the basic fix, my kid was in karate, and not once gave my crazy kids the stink eye, even when Monster tried to get him to play basketball. He would have gotten 5 stars had he taken the time to give us an estimate to do a basic fix, and what we really wanted, which was a fuller longer porch (5x15-17).

I can't mark him down for his cost, as he really doesn't have a say on what the company charges, but I felt like I did, many years ago, when we had a siding company come by to sell us vinyl siding. They wanted $15k, after "discounts and coupons" and we could get basic, solid service from another for half the cost. (we didn't do either just in case you were wondering)

He did mention that if we needed financing, upon approval, the company did offer their own, and wanted to make sure we understood, that we needed to make sure that any company we went with was licenced and bonded. He kept saying that over and over, so either the company wants us to make sure we know that not everyone is, and most aren't, or that he understood that we would probably go with another company. He did know we had another estimator coming out later this week.

NEXT: a Landscape company, who will win. Pretty or Functional???

Our new project

2010-04-14T09:36:00.003-04:00

I expected something to break or happen this month, as everything comes in threes, somewhere between the 6th and 13th. No kidding either, I have begun to dread that week!

First in February, it was the water heater. As aggravating as that was, it has been nice to have a brand spanking new tank, that not only holds more water (yea long showers), but doesn't leave pink streaked hard water stains. The pink hard water came from the rust and corrosion in the pipes connectors on the water tank and inside, but the tank was 25 years old.

Then in March it was the Transmission. Strike 2, 3x the cost of the first, but the car is running so smooth, we are getting better gas mileage, and our little grandma car has been so good otherwise.

And now that April has come, the 2nd weekend is here, I KNEW the other shoe would drop, and it did. In the past few weeks, the local city housing inspector has been on our end of the street, with a few homes getting some much needed TLC from the many foreclosures in the area. While passing our house on numerous occasions, I guess they felt our sad little stoop needed to be fixed.

We have been well aware of the slow crumbling of the structure, the sad little dip in the stairs, and the gaping hole. We just have been trying so hard to try to save our money for the time in the summer, when a contract will be up and we have no guarantee of a weekly paycheck. So once more all of our savings will be going to a deposit, and the rest of what we could be saving between now and July will be going to the contractor to fix/replace our sad little steps.

It doesn't help, that these pictures were taken prior to our spring clean up, which will begin this coming weekend, but I am wondering now if it is worth doing as it is all getting riped out anyway.

Long to short, over the next week, I will be posting my experience with the contractors I contacted. So far only 2. I was incredibly frustrated at the lack of information concerning what to expect, when dealing with paying someone else to do it. We have used family so much in getting stuff done, that I am seriously thinking our Monster needs to take up the Handy Manny trade, to help keep our home in good repair!

I am trying to think positive, that our silver lining to all this, will be a contract extension, or better yet, a full hire. I hate wishing away my year, but I can't say it enough I can't wait for it to get done, just to know, ya know.

Opening Day

2010-04-12T17:37:00.003-04:00

We didn't go downtown this year, no big surprise. We haven't made it to an opening day since Amandine was little. The loudest cheer that was heard from the game on Friday wasn't for Paws or any play on the field, but one from the sky as the sun emerged. Personally, Baseball can wait till May to begin, if only for the warm afternoon games.I forgot that it was opening day, although I don't know why. So when Chris came out with his Jersey, it was so cute to see Thierry recognize "baseball". I immediately jumped up, ran into his room, flung open the closet door to pull out the Jersey we purchased almost 3 years ago for him. He squealed with delight, and promptly walked around like the King, then went and found a bat to practice his swing.

If this kid isn't going to be good, please let him find out now. I would hate to see his little heart break.

Easter Madness Pictures

2010-04-05T11:11:00.004-04:00

Birthday Balloons

2010-04-05T11:03:00.002-04:00

Birthday Review

2010-04-05T10:39:00.006-04:00

Our Monster turned 2, and it fell on a weekend when I just did not have any energy left in me. The week leading up to it, I was deaf and sick due to the WORST cold I have had in years and years. This lead to us delaying our celebrations. There was also the issue that we were suppose to celebrate it with his Uncle who shares the same day, BUT he has moved, in a somewhat expected, although early departure to be with his own little man. So long to short, Thierry has now had three weekends of birthday fun.

On his birthday, taking an idea I saw on friends blog, we blew up balloons and tossed them into his room, after he fell asleep. He woke up to a 2 year olds idea of heaven. We have finally just rid ourselves of the last balloon today. As if that wasn't enough, he got his first t, to practice his swing. Only 2 and already has a love affair with all things that end with ball (baseball, basketball, football, etc.) he knew exactly what it was for and patiently waited for it to be put together. Already he has dreams of being a switch hitter :)

you will have to excuse the blurry resolution. Have you ever tried to photographer and 2 year old who wouldn't stop moving? Then the following weekend, during our typical 4th Sunday Dinner at Mamie's and Papi's, Thierry got his much wanted hotwheel car race track. Unfortunately, it came with one too many pieces, and one less than what we needed. We are awaiting to hear from Mattel to see what can be done. For now it sits, partially put together in our basement.

And finally to wrap up the celebrations, we had presents at Nana's last night, where he knew that ball wrapping paper was for him. After a long afternoon of playing with his cousin, running around outside, and searching out Easter Eggs, he was able to wrap up his birthday.

His new swing waits patiently now, for next weekend. We will be putting up the swing set that we were gifted by a very gracious friend over winter. I can hardly wait to put his outdoor toys, outside!

Two years of the Monster

2010-03-22T09:02:00.006-04:00

Crepes Recipe - For my Buddy Christine

2010-03-08T11:09:00.004-05:00

Recipe for Christine. I hope this is easy enough, I am sure Emma will LOVE them, especially if you eat yours with Nutella too!

Crepes:
4 eggs
1 cup milk
1/2 cup flour
1 tablespoon sugar
1/8 teaspoon salt (just a pinch)

In a blender, add the eggs, milk, flour, sugar, and salt. Blend.(fill the blender to the 1 cup mark, then add the eggs, it is a little more than one cup of milk, with out going to to the 1/8th marker on a regular liquid measuring cut, but much closer to the correct measurement that make the crepes less eggy)

Preheat a 10-inch nonstick crepe pan or skillet over medium-low heat. While blending do a quick wipe of butter on the pan. You may want to repeat the butter after each crepe, so keep that butter handy! (Too Much Butter will make them greasy and fried.)

Add just shy of, 1/4 cup of batter tilting the pan to evenly coat the bottom of the pan. (I use a dry measuring cup, vs. a liquid cup. Keeps the crepe from being a Swedish pancake)

Using a heat-resistant spatula, carefully loosen the sides and gently flip the crepe over, when the glossy shine has faded. Briefly cook the second side.

Place cooked crepe, on wax paper.
Add Nutella while still warm.

You might as well have two ready, because you will want to eat one just as soon as your kids! OR you can do what I do, make a few, eat them, then tell the kids you are making crepes. It makes the whole process much easier, when you have already gotten yours...hehehe:)

I would really suggest using , buying, and having a pan specifically for crepes, as the handle is nice and heavy, and cool enough that you don't need to use a hot pad when you tilt the pan. We have tried it with an omelet pan or skillet over the years, and really they don't work as well, but you can get decent crepes, especially if you eat them right of the grill like we do.

Also If you over cook the crepe, the edges are really brittle, and crispy, kinda like the crepes you buy premade at the store.

My other little hint on keeping the crepes super soft and movable, cover the crepes with plastic wrap will still warm, the steam keeps them soft, and the moist. When we have been able to (not often as we eat them so fast), we have kept them under the plastic wrap to eat the next day.

I swear these tastes just like the ones we had, walking back to the Opera House in Paris, all those many, many years ago.

Family Favorite

2010-03-04T13:33:00.003-05:00

Yum, what can else can I say. We have finally found the most incredibly simple and easy crepe recipe. They turned out perfect each time. Crazy American recipes try to make it so hard...After all, the easier they are to create, the more Maman makes them.

Thierry seems to like his with Jam.

Amandine has liked hers with Nutella,

I like them anyway I can get them, as long as it is easy!

Monkey's Fancy Nancy Room

2010-03-01T11:39:00.004-05:00

We have been in love with the book, "Fancy Nancy" since it first arrived on the scene when Amandine was still in diapers. She is the cutest little fancy child, the perfect example of how my own little princess acts. I am not exaggerating either. Put a curly headed wig on my kid, and Fancy Nancy has come to life.

Now, after months of painting, and looking, we have found the accessories to complete one more room project...

Drumroll please...

At our local Jo-Anns, they have started to carry Fancy Nancy Themed material, everything from basic cotton, fleece, silky pj material, and flannel. We had thought we would would make the curtains, and the bedspread, BUT when I happened to find a set on Kohls.com, on sale (1/2 off), plus free shipping, we went ahead and saved me a weekend or three in creating the look. The only things missing i have been told, is a super soft, shaggy pink rug (for reading and planning purposes), her canopy bed frame (which she will not get because of her overhead fan, but will get a basic bed frame come spring) and a vanity table, oh and I can't forget, that when I get the bedframe sanded and painted, that the bedside table simply must be reworked. Overall she gave me 3 stars, 4 upon completion...

I didn't know i was going to judged.

I am glad I didn't show her the leopard print set, I might have only gotten 2 Stars for my review!

Disney's Give a Day, Get a Day!

2010-03-01T11:19:00.004-05:00

As many of you know, we are the proud owners in the Disney Vacation Club, and plan, save and prepare to go to a Disney resort each year. Usually we can only arrange to get a two day park pass, or a One day with a special event pass, as it seems we are always getting hit with something unexpected. Fortunately, this year, we have already prepaid, for 90% of it, or will by the end of the week, thanx to the military discount we will be getting with Aunt Jenny coming with us, and the Disney's Give a Day, Get a Day promotion.

Originally I thought we would not be able to participate, as on initial review, we saw page after page, of meals on wheels, and habitat projects, that are just a little too old for Our Monkey to participate in safely. Then by chance I fell upon an old friend's family blog, and their documenting of the LINUS PROJECT. The project was simple and doable for all of our family.

http://www.handsonnetwork.org/disney

http://disneyparks.disney.go.com/disneyparks/en_US/WhatWillYouCelebrate/index?name=Give-A-Day-Get-A-Disney-Day

So, Saturday Morning, on our way over to Nana's post Karate, we will be dropping of our finished projects; three teenage friendly, fleece blankets. Monkey picked a cute girly, guitar rock star themed fleece, Papa's is a green and blue stripped, and mine in a gorgeous black and white modern floral pattern...which I am very tempted to go and purchase more fabric to make my own.

Hey, if the Muppets can do it, so can we!!

Belt Promotion

2010-02-19T11:19:00.004-05:00

Last Night, our Monkey was promoted to her Orange Belt (8th gup)! She was so excited. She is now able to start training in sparring and in weapons. Needless to say but she is extremely happy and crazy excited at this prospect.

We will actually not let her start sparring... she does that enough with us verbally these days. Maybe if she gets her chatty cathy self to calm down, and earn her green belt (2 tests away so maybe this fall). We will have to look into weapons though, that is way too much fun not to.

Oh what do you do on a Winter Day, when all the ground is White?

2010-02-10T15:01:00.003-05:00

Do you Roll in the snow, Pout on the Ground,
or Try to let the dog out, with all your might? Is that what you do?

So do we!

It took 30 minutes to get him ready for the snow and about 10 till he was ready to come back in.

Don't you just love Winter?

Because Medical Doctors are sometimes quacks...

2010-02-10T14:14:00.005-05:00

Medical professionals:

Please take a moment and re exam your career choice, especially if you ever thought that "A Mother KNOWS", is just an excuse to bring attention to ourselves.

I am a calm mother, when it comes to my kids being sick. I can tell if an earache is really just pain from congestion, or the beginnings of a middle ear infection. I have seen impetigo, spider bites, heat rashes, rosacea, and know the symptoms of strep throat, scarlet fever, and the 5th disease. Head wounds don't make me gasp in horror (unless something is sticking out of it), and broken bones can wait tell morning because they have to call an orthopedic to look at the x-ray anyways (unless again, something is sticking out or fever).

I learned quite a bit, from a scouting father, and brothers, a girls camp program that actually taught you to camp, and being in a house FULL of crazy boys.

I HATE going to the doctors for myself, and unless I am positive that I need a 2nd opinion will not schedule an appointment. I hate drugs for the side effects, and hate having someone come in and mess with the "new computer system" for 12 minutes before even looking at my kid. Many times a doctors visit is not needed, so my kids have only been in for well baby visits and annual checkups. It is not because they are crazy healthy (although we have been blessed with good health, and not having Er visits) but because I don't run my kids to the place where other sick kids are bound to be.

SO when I say my kid has the shingles, don't tell me, that he can't because he is too young, and that it only happens with people over 50.

YOU ARE A STUPID MAN FOR PAYING OUT THE NOSE FOR A MEDICAL DEGREE!

Our monster has just gotten over having it, following the classic traits and signs of the disease. Most likely when he received the chicken pox vaccine, his body registered it as an active virus, whether it was dormant/dead or not. It happens, though rare, it happens. So if you have been following my post of the Rash, and happen to see something that looks like chicken pox, a few days after complaints of pain on one side, cover it up, give them benydryl, and keep hydrocoretzone cream on it. Then take them to the doctor. If more kids start to show up with it, then they will have to start acknowledging that maybe, kid do in fact get shingles more than they thought.

Sincerely,

The Mama

PS fyi, shingles can not be contracted from a case of shingles. Shingles lay dormant in your body after being exposed, suffering, or receiving the chicken pox either in bing sick or vaccinated for them.
Children who have NOT been vaccinated can get CHICKEN POX from the case of shingles if you open a blister and rub the fluid onto your skin.
Shingles in adults appear due to stress or illness, in children it is unknown except for underlying health issues.
Shingles begin with complaints of pain, or "itchies" on ONE side of the body 1-3 days prior to the presentation of the initial "grouping" of blisters. These blisters will continue to grow, is size, redness, and may spread to other areas along a nerve path on ONE side of the body.
There is nothing they can do for it, except monitor it, give benydryl, and tell you to keep it covered and hydrocortozone cream (non steroid). The sores should crust over, scab and start to fall off around day 7-10, and be completely clear within 3 weeks. If new blisters continue to form over 14 days serious underlying health issues may be hindering the healing process.

Day 5 of Rash watch...

2010-02-02T09:24:00.005-05:00

I am obsessed with this thing now. Monster is being such a trooper, as I bandage his leg, and take pictures. we have scheduled a doc appointment, for tomorrow afternoon, and Nana will come out here to drive us. Although it had appeared to be getting better since Saturday, this morning it didn't look really any better, and I thought worse, so I decided to just call it in. Time will tell if Monster has inherited the "not anymore" gene, where we could be on deaths doorstep, but head to the doctor, make that call and BAM!!! we are cured. Inside his leg
Inside of leg post Oatmeal Bath.

up close and personal to his knee

Knee shot #2 Post Bath

Knee shot, post bath. That blackish looking stuff was lent that we clean out after the picture was taken.

Upper leg, with a new bump to the right (his left)

Up Close to his Upper Leg

Post Bath inside of legs/upper leg spots

Overall, taking an oatmeal bath each morning helps with the overall redness. We have continued to keep clean gauze on it, with OTC neosporin medicine. He also has his Benydryl to keep him from scratching.

I really hope he is just getting an infection from scratching, as that will be less worrisome to me than if it is the other two options. Especially when you read that a child this young, after being vaccinated (a year ago), can develop Shingles, and more commenly they have an underlying Immune system issue. Trying NOT to be paranoid, or crazy, but I NEVER take my kids to the doctors unless I think something is very wrong, and am usually right...:(

Updates on Thierry's gross rash

2010-02-01T10:01:00.003-05:00

Sunday

Monday

Here are some updated pictures, one from yesterday, and a few from today. We have been giving him oatmeal baths, keeping it under wraps to prevent his scratching, and putting a basic otc neosporin type ointment on it. The individual "blisters" are still yellow, and are forming crusties. but the overall redness and inflamed surrounding area is down. No new eruptions today, still have (all of which are starting to yellow and blister form) two on his lower back, and the patch above his knee.

We called the Family Practice office we go to, where they politely asked that we just monitor it, as we have, keep a clean bandage on it with the otc, benydryl and if more start to pop up, or the yellow turn green, or he is screaming in pain if you touch it, then to call and make an after hours appointment. I understand, as much as they don't want to risk exposing other "well-baby" visit children and misc to be exposed to what they say could be either:

MILD CHICKEN POX

MILD SHINGLES

JUST A PLAIN DRY SKIN RASH ITCHED TOO MUCH.

Today he is fine, doesn't complain about the pain in the area or touching it like he did on Friday prior to bumps, or Saturday. And FYI if you have been playing with my kid at all since last week, look out for them if it does turn out to be Chicken Pox. If it is the other stuff still be wary, but if they kids didn't poke at the spot (and who would it was covered by his pants) they will be ok.

Sorry Belle, we will be checking you all over today too.

PS I was told it could be a Messuli... thing by a few people, but it didn't come up with chatting on the phone with our favorite doctor. AND they can't do more than what we are doing for they above, except give a pain medication for the shingles.

HELP! What is this?

2010-01-30T20:55:00.004-05:00

Friday

Friday morning

Friday Morning

Saturday Morning (lower back, new bumps)

Saturday Morning

Saturday Morning, bumps on his knee new.

Saturday Morning

And tonight, it was larger and darker red, and I used a 3x3 gauze pad to cover the big spot up and the inner spot on the inner thigh. And he has two new bumps like the ones on his back on his bottom.

Got an opinion, let me know. I will let you know what it is when we know, but he will not be at church tomorrow

Today, I am a little peeved at Disney World

2010-01-29T18:31:00.004-05:00

We are heading down, once again to visit the mouse this fall. Like always we have arranged to stay at our DVC resort, AND we have a strong hope that Aunt Jenny's school schedule will work out that she will be able to go with us.
The dates we have chosen to go, just happen to be the opening weekend for the Food and Wine Festival, and for the 2nd year in a row they will be holding a Half-Marathon.

Chris is so exciting I can already hear the wheels turning as he plans the next 7 months of training.

And then we find out, the only transportation to this event will be to 4 of their resorts. Ours is not one of them.

Typically this wouldn't be an issue, because you can always catch a bus at Disney, but this particular even will start at 10PM and close down at 3AM. Thus walking the streets back to Disney Resorts are NOT an option, and renting a car to park overnight is ridiculous.

I am going to have to write a very ANGRY letter to the planning committee.

Here's to hoping that we can get into one of the walkable resorts, at the 7 month mark. (pessimistic me doesn't think it will happen)

Kickboxing anyone?

2010-01-27T10:51:00.002-05:00

I am going to sign up to take a Cardio Kickboxing Class, being offered by the studio where Amandine does her Karate. It will start Monday the 8th, be every Mon< and Wedesday at 8pm. $25 a month. Anyone want to join me?

We didn't do much, but we did alot with out...

2010-01-25T13:55:00.003-05:00

Papa getting us snacks and Dinner... Papa keeping our Monster from getting into things...
And I spent the day eating these, knowing I had all day to hid the evidence.

(well, not really eating these all day, or at all. I want to start up a cardio kickboxing class in 2 weeks and don't need to have even more bonbons to work off.)

Christopher went back to work this morning, which meant I had to be up and dressed (SHOCK) by 7am. That way I was walking out the door to get our Monkey to school, little man in tow.

I also got to deal with tantrums by myself, clean up messes all alone, and make lunch for the grumpy monster and his friend, Miss Squishy.

Naps for 2 little ones went without a hitch, and now we are getting ready to head back up to the school to pick up the Monkey.

I love that HE isn't at home with us, it is way too easy to feel spoiled and lazy!

Yea for work...even if it is only contracted for up to 6 months.

Henry Ford Museum.

2010-01-21T10:15:00.004-05:00

We got to spend the a day at the Henry Ford, thanks to Target Days. Why? Because it was Free. I just love Free, don't you?

Papi joined us too. It is a rare chance that we have him all to ourselves!

Engine Mama!

Grandmother Anna Belle Reel

2010-01-12T12:15:00.004-05:00

My Great Grandma passed away this morning, 98 years old, and as feisty as ever. When I was little, she and I would exchange letters, until I was eventually able to take my first plane ride to go and see her, just a few months prior to Grand-dad passing. Our Visit in August.
Aunt Joyce, Grandma Shirley, and Grandmother

Grandmother and Grand-dad

She was a truly sweet lady, who loved her kids, and grand kids, and great-grand kids, and of course the sweet babies that were able to visit her from us. 5 generations in all.

hair cut

2010-01-07T15:10:00.003-05:00

YOU WANT TO SHAVE MY HEAD!!

Now just a little off the top...Mr. Monster looks like a little MAN! Where did my Baby Boy go???

New Primary Position...YEA!

2010-01-03T16:42:00.003-05:00

First off, I LOVED my naughty boys. And the giggly girls where fun too. But I am really glad that I am back to the Nursery... again.

Last year I had the kids, turning 9, 10, sometimes 11 and 12, during primary, and it was a blast. For the most part they behaved, and followed our class rules, which resulted in LOTS of treats, but while I was busy teaching, Chris was in the halls with the Monster. He turned 18 months last fall, but I just decided to keep him out of Nursery till January.

well, the nursery was packed, with limited teachers to go around, and I am a big stickler for having a lesson, coloring activity, etc. besides the play with toys bit. After all, don't you want sunbeams who can sit?

So, finally our Monster is able to attend the nursery, with me. He currently has 1 little girl in his class age group, and should have 2-3 more by the end of the year. The older class has 6 from what I can gauge. Next week I hope to fill a board with all our nursery fun. I have been warned though, of MIA items in our building. Mysterious hands destroying our wards activity/message board, taking away toys, and leaving behind "their" nursery items. I truly hope this wont be an issue, but I have seen it before. So those of you out there that read this, and KNOW what I am talking about... PLAY NICE... or I don't take prisoners.

Christmas Eve

2010-01-02T09:47:00.002-05:00

MISSING: Our Camera. Have you seen it lately? Thierry can't get his hair cut, unless I find it, as I simply must document the special event. Guess he will just have some shaggy locks till then. It isn't really too bad, I can make a wicked faux hawk with it :)

Christmas 2009

2009-12-26T13:45:00.003-05:00

Ya know when you really want to see an expression on a kids face the moment, they realize what they are getting, and KNOW it was on a list, sometimes you get to see it, and because they have to be quiet (3:30am) it is soooo much sweeter than when they are allowed to scream and jump.

Back story, Chris and I are Grinch's. Really we are. (Do Not Read the Following Account to your Children Prior to *adjusting* any misconceptions)

We decided that instead of encouraging the myth of Santa Clause, we would let our kids know right from the Start that Santa Clause is Coca-Cola's best advertising gimmick ever. That our American idea of the whole thing is because about 80 years ago or so, this company took all the most commercial parts of St. Nicolas, Sinter Klaus, Pere Noel, etc. and came up with our wonderful Jolly Elf.

We decided to focus on Pere Noel (and he sits on top of our tree because our star wont ever stay up) and his sidekick, and his history of good works, and ministry. I know we are LDS not Catholic, but I love History, and a good value is great in any religion.

Then the Monkey turned 4 and promptly told her almost 3 year old cousin that Santa Claus was DEAD. That he lived way before us and that he died, therefore everything was a myth. The result a very Sad little girl who now thinks her uncle and aunt lie...

My mother hates that we did this, as she LOVES Santa, and stockings, and Christmas all wrapped with a bow. So over the years she has taken over the department on asking about leaving out cookies in whispers, and listening for sleigh bells. I don't really mind.

When she was 5, she really wanted to believe, and with no presents under the tree when she went to bed, she awoke to toys all over the place and ran down the hall, excited as she could, to tell us "HE CAME, SANTA CAME!"

Last Year,We started to tape a ribbon across her door when she goes to sleep, so that if it is down and she wakes up in the night, then she may come up and look at the tree, with all it's lights sparkling. Quietly, look at the tree.

Yesterday Morning, around 3:30 am, I was sitting on the couch, looking at the tree, eating carrots cause I was starving. (I have been really sick most of the week and am now eating). All of a sudden I hear a stampede of foot steps all coming from our little Monkey Running down our very short hall. She stops dead in her tracks, and slowly comes out. 5 minutes, I tell her, then off to bed. She knells down and starts looking at the presents, and eyeballing the stockings. Then she scrunches her eyes, leans forward, and turns to me.

"mama! I just realized what that is with my stocking! It's, it's a Scooter!!!"

Santa is Real, not matter what we have said or have informed. She wrote him, 3x this year. She knew we would never buy it for her, we told her every time she asked. But just like that Red Ryder, sometimes it is better to let them learn that Santa is more about Faith in believing, then letting them grow up too soon.

Campus Maritus Tree

2009-12-16T19:24:00.002-05:00

Because she wants to believe...

2009-12-10T09:10:00.002-05:00

Advent Activity # ? I have lost count

Write a letter to "Santa" and take it to the Mailbox at Macys.

FYI if you want to do this, Macys has a table, crayons and paper ready for you at their stores.

We Bleed Maize and Blue...

2009-12-09T14:59:00.006-05:00

Chris found out on Tuesday that his application for school was accepted. We are super pumped! Starting in January my man is heading back to school for his MBA!

I am totally Ok that it isn't Ann Arbor, (can you imagine the weekly commute!!!)

I am so proud of you Chris!

Ok, so I guess I can now talk about it...

2009-12-06T17:57:00.002-05:00

I am a HUGE jinx. It is all because of every job interview Chris had, every call, from a different company, I looked them up. I wanted to know where they were, what people who worked there though, etc. This time though I didn't even think about it. And he got hired. It has been confirmed, the contract signed, and the drug test administered.

Well I can't say that I had any time to look into it either. Chris interview was one week, then next was the Holiday, and the following we were looking at him going back to Stahls.

So here are the details.

Starting on the 14th he will be working for a Contract Company that is located in Canada. They currently have a job here in Sterling Heights with General Dynamics for a Temporary Position that will last 12-16 weeks. There is NO guaranteed time frame for this position, so we are hoping for the longest amount of time. At the end of this contract there may be an opening for him to be hired full time, which would be wonderful!

In the meantime, we are still doing everything we can to keep all bills down, and SAVE all extra cash that might be coming in. If he isn't hired full time, and the contract ends, with UI and what we will save from this job, we should be able to float until something more permanent comes our way.

A HUGE THANK YOU TO JOSH AND STACEY WHO HELPED CHRIS LAND THIS POSITION!!! Fingers crossed we will be able to do the official happy dance in the spring.

Advent #4 Uncle Gaelans play

2009-12-06T17:48:00.003-05:00

My little brother has for the past 3 years participated in his Middle School Play. Each time he has asked if we will go, and we have forgotten. Not this time! Our family advent activity was to attend. Although our Monster had to leave in the first 10 minutes, it was fun to see my little brother on stage. The Monkey even had sour gummy worms for him instead of flowers at the end of the night. Super Fun!

Boompa, Uncle Cedric, Nana (talking with) Sister Haynes and Brother Haynes.

The kids waiting for the show to begin.

Goofy Uncle Gaelan post performance.

Monkey and her Uncle, I can't believe there is only 6 years difference in their age!

Curtain Call

Advent # 3 Ssssshhhhhh

2009-12-04T10:44:00.001-05:00

The craft activity is Classified TOP SECRET!

MISC Tree posting pictures only

2009-12-04T10:27:00.002-05:00

The Monkey and the Papa separating the limbs. Monster is taking his hand and stringing up the lights.

Blur #1 Monster Holding lights, Blur #2 Papa trying to put them up.

Monster Man is making sure he can clear the tree when crawling to hid under things.

Showing his work, of course Papa will just have to finish it up for him.

Advent Day 2 Door Decorations.

2009-12-04T10:13:00.003-05:00

half of the fun of getting ready for Christmas, is taking the time to decorate it. That is why all of our Christmas Decorations aren't up until the week before Christmas.

On Monday evening, after Karate, the Monkey and I stopped by English Gardens to pick out the boughs to create our door wreaths. Fortunately they were all on sale!!! (YEAH!!) Because we have our artificial tree each year, the REAL stuff is the only way to go for the wreaths, it helps with keeping that holiday smell. Next year though... I REALLY WANT TO CUT MY OWN TREE DOWN AGAIN!!

Here are a few of the finished products. Including a neat cork wreath, that I saw a picture of in a magazine and recreated with the help of donated wine corks.

December Advent Calender 12-1

2009-12-01T09:49:00.003-05:00

Tonight we will be working on a snowflake garland for the tree, it should be pretty easy, as it is an everything in one package craft. With our Monkey having Karate at 5 tonight (I really wish it was at 5:45 all week) Tuesdays will be harder to do anything more than just drive around, or insta activities.

After taking a few minutes to figure out how we wanted to make the snowflake garland, we decided to use it as additional ornaments, rather than have a the pale blue ribbon the package came with strung into the tree. And see the pretty bows we added. Our Papa Noel is very pleased with his tree, see him smiling up top!