Monday, December 10, 2012

Best Family Night!

Friday night was the best family night! 

Confession: We don't have a ton of "planned" family nights. Our family time usually consists of McD's or a movie before bed. But that's just the business of life right now. So when we do have a planned event, I get a little excited.

Friday was the day we went to see Santa! It's kind of our family Christmas tradition now.{ I guess if you do it the same way three years in a row, it's tradition, right?!} 

First, we visited Santa at Bass Pro Shop ... aka ... the fish store. He is the cutest Santa and they always do such a great job with pics! No one complains if you take your own pictures and they still give you a freebie! And he really listens to what the kids have to say....always a big plus!

Aren't they the CUTEST kids ever?? Or maybe I'm just a little biased!

Then, of course, we visit the fish!



And after all of that excitement, we eat dinner at Steak and Shake! That's how I convince my hubby to going out on a Friday at Christmas time. {He really dislikes traffic and huge crowds of people} 





We finished the night with a trip to the Dollar Store! Maecie found everything princess, Clayton found everything Superhero, and Mom got great stocking stuffers while Dad and Lucie perused the aisles. And of course, Clayton entertained all of the workers with his stories and explanations of everything he was purchasing.

We went early {right at 4:30pm or so}, made sure everyone had eaten, and had many distractions {fish, rides on daddy's shoulders, taking pictures with mom's phone, and straws!} It was a fabulous night. My favorite family tradition!

Thursday, December 6, 2012

Gratitude Wrap-Up

So I dropped the ball on my 30 days of gratitude posts. Things got busy and a little out of control (so to say). But I thought about all that I was thankful for on a daily basis! Some of the highlights:

1. My children - Clayton who bring laughter and excitement to our home on a daily basis. Maecie who is teaching me all about how to be a princess. Lucie who is the sweetest, most cuddly baby ever!
2. My family who loves me unconditionally.
3. My parents, grandparents, and in-laws who have loved, taught and supported me in every endeavor.
4. My home and  the shelter it provides our family from the elements. It may not always be in pristine condition, but we feel safe here.
5. My gift of baking. I really enjoy baking and I love even more when my baking can bring comfort to others.
6. My large suburban that is able to carry my children, luggage when needed, a trip home from Costco and more, yet still keep my family and I safe from any crazies on the road.
7. Family togetherness ... when I was 16 years old and my aunt and uncle and grandparents moved into the same town my family and I lived in, I thought we had too much family together time. Now, I wish there could be more!
8. The gifts God has blessed me with - music, food, desire to serve others - and how they bring me closer to my Heavenly Father, my children, my husband, my extended family and my church family.

I guess all in all, you can say my family - far and near - and my blessings from God are the things I am most thankful for. Whether I accomplish all on my to-do list or not, whether I have the latest and greatest or not, I am blessed beyond measure!

Wednesday, November 7, 2012

30 Days of Gratitude - Day 7

Today I'm thankful for my job. Yes, technically I am a stay-at-home-mom and am so lucky to have that job. But this year I picked up something a little more my musical style.

I have the opportunity to teach music to preschoolers (ages 1-5) two times a week. They even help take care of my girls while I am there, allowing me some time doing something I love.

Music has always been a love of mine. I've sung in choirs and such since I was 10 years old. And there is something magical about seeing a two year old with a big smile on their face while they are bobbing their head in rhythm to "Old McDonald Had a Farm'"

And somehow, these children are teaching me. You see, the preschool is at a church and during the time I am there, I get to share a little spiritual message with the kids. They may not be the same denomination as I am, and they may not be the same denomination as the preschool. Yet, we are learning about God and His love for each one of us.

Last month we talked about the love Jesus Christ has for us. I told the kids I was going to show them a picture of someone Jesus loves. I then passed around a mirror and asked the kids who was in the picture. The smiles on their faces was priceless! And each child knew that they were loved.

Not long after I began these lessons, I realized I needed to be doing that same thing for my children. So of course, I implemented a little spiritual message in our home on a daily basis (well, that's my intentions anyway!). I feel like it has truly made a difference in our home.

It may not pay the bills .... it may not be the highest caliber of learning .... however, I love my job and am thankful for the things I learn from these kids daily!

Tuesday, November 6, 2012

30 Days of Gratitude - Day 6

I think I'm supposed to be grateful for the freedom to vote today .... and don't get me wrong, I totally am! I went and voted to voice my opinion. I would say I waited in lines forever, but I think everyone around me waited in line for early voting. So for me, I was in and out and on my way! 

Therefore, between stressing over the election (my anxiety is about to get the best of me!), the time change (yes, Maecie is still waking up an hour early!), and no school for kids, my gratitude comes in the form of caffeine!

My favorites, my vices ... Diet Coke and Chocolate!



Ahhhhh.....that's better! Yes, a Diet Coke and some chocolate is all it took to get me over the hump and through the day! 

Monday, November 5, 2012

30 Days of Gratitude - Days 4 & 5

I figured that at least once or twice during this 30 days of gratitude I would have to double up on my posts because of time constraints. (Did you know there are only 24 hours in a day?! Good grief!) But I didn't think it would be this early in the month....

Day 4: I am a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (a Mormon). I am a Christian. I read my scriptures and pray. And I am SO incredibly thankful that I live in a country where I can worship God freely, and in the way I desire. When I hear of other countries who are thrown in prison for praying or worse, I can barely fathom it. How blessed and lucky are we to be a part of a country where freedom is actually practiced!

Day 5: I am incredibly thankful for my siblings! Today is my oldest sister's birthday and it served as a reminder that I have awesome siblings. My sisters and brother and I have always been able to spend time with one another, laughing and generally having fun. In spite of our disagreements at times, we know that we can count on one another. Love them all!

My sisters and I two Christmases ago ... missing my brother...

Saturday, November 3, 2012

30 Days of Gratitude - Day 3

I have such a handy hubby! And I am so grateful for all the work he does and is able to do. Because of him, our 1965 house now has a laundry room! The finishing touches are happening still, but a separate room with cabinets and laundry baskets... I'm almost giddy! Here's to hoping the laundry stays in the laundry room!


Thank you to my handy, helpful husband!!

Another Thankful Blogger:
Where Is My Instruction Manual

30 Days of Gratitude - Day 2

Whether it's the funny things they say, like the following exchange:
Clayton: I love you, Lucie!
Maecie: No! I wove yucie! You no wove yucie!
Clayton: No! I love Lucie the mostest!

Ignore the mess on the floor ... yes, my house always has toys and paper everywhere!

Or the way all three have to find a way on my lap during bedtime stories on our 1 person sized rocking chair ....



These little people bring a light to my life that I could not find anywhere else! I am so thankful for these cuties in my life! I love them a whole lotta bit!


Friday, November 2, 2012

30 Days of Gratitude - Day 1

There is something about the weather changing that changes my mood. Although I LOVE the fall colors, I tend to get a little bummed when the cooler temps start. So to combat those yucky feelings and pity parties, I'm going to join the 30 Days of Gratitude for November. (But of course, I'm a day late!)

It was a busy day. All of our days are busy. After dropping off Clayton at school and completing my Zumba class at the gym, we headed to Target to pick up a couple of items. No matter what I do, a quick trip always ends up going a little longer than planned. 

Maecie has learned that she can walk through the store if she promises to stay close. Once she wonders away, she goes straight into the cart. It has actually worked better that I initially thought it would. She does a wonderful job in the store ... unless she wants to touch everything she sees. Or tosses random stuff in the cart.

In spite of her wandering and touching and asking for everything, we walked out of the store with her standing next to the cart. As we walked to the car, a lady behind asked if Maecie was leading the pack. I responded with, "she is sure trying!" and gave a little chuckle that actually might have sounded more like an exasperated sound. The lady then gave me a smile and said, "You are doing a good job, mom!"

At first, I wanted to roll my eyes and tell her she had no idea. However, I paused and thought about it. I'm trying to do my best. I'm trying to teach my children how to behave in public places. To allow them to learn by giving them opportunities to make mistakes. Strangers don't normally say nice things just because they feel obligated to. They tend to speak the truth, warranted or not.

Yet, she chose to take a moment to reassure me of my choices. To give me a motherly nod towards my efforts. 

Today, I'm thankful for the kindness of strangers!

Sunday, October 28, 2012

Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

I'm feeling pretty good about myself right now! You see, I've created my very own first recipe!

Now, really, in this day and age, you don't come up with a new idea. You find something that sounds good on pinterest. You try it out and it may or may not be all you hoped and dreamed it would be. But by tweaking things and changing them, they eventually become your own. No one else wrote it for me. I created it myself.

I LOVE to bake! I love cakes and cookies and breads and basically anything that goes in the oven. I like creating yummy aromas that permeate the house. I like the comfort that baked goods bring to people. And, of course, I love putting yummy things in my tummy!

As soon as the leaves began to change, I was ready for soups and stews and fresh baked breads. This is not going to go well with my diet plan!

But I've also been turning over a new leaf.... I've added pumpkin to my ingredient list.

Truth be told ... I'm not a fan of pumpkin pie. Never have been. I think it's a texture thing.

However, pumpkin flavored cakes and now cinnamon rolls are starting to find their way into my tastebuds.

So I started out with a fabulous dough....



Rolled it out added sugar and cinnamon inside....


Cut them into their cute little rolls (with dental floss, of course!)....



Baked them up and added a superb cream cheese icing and life became wonderful!



Okay, so it was already wonderful but this just put "the icing on the cake," if you will!

Recipe:
1 1/4 cup warm water
1/3 cup of sugar
2 T dry yeast
1/4 cup oil

1 egg
1/2 T salt
1 1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp nutmeg
3/4 tsp ginger
3/4 cup pumpkin
4 1/2 - 5 cups bread flour

4 T melted butter
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup white sugar
1 T cinnamon

4 oz. cream cheese, softened
3 cups powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla
2 T milk

1. Mix first 4 ingredients together and let sit until yeast bubbles, about 10 minutes.
2. Add egg, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and pumpkin and mix well.
3. Add flour a 1/4 cup at a time until dough comes together. Then dump out onto a floured surface, adding a little flour as needed to keep from becoming sticky.
4. Cover with a clean cloth and let sit for about 10 minutes.
5. Pour some oil on your counter. Divide dough in half and roll or press out to about a 16" by 12" rectangle.
6. Spread 2 T of melted butter on dough. Sprinkle about 1/4 cup of brown sugar, 1/2 T cinnamon and 1/4 cup white sugar. Roll up tight. Divide into 12 rolls and place in a 9x13 greased pan.
7. Repeat with other half of dough.
8. Let rise for 15 minutes.
9. Bake at 400 degrees for 12-15 minutes.

Icing - mix together cream cheese and powdered sugar. Add vanilla. Add milk a little at a time to desired consistency.

Monday, October 15, 2012

Perspective

After reviewing my last two posts, it seems I'm becoming thoughtful in my "old age". (I just passed my half birthday and am now closer to 30 than 29! Eeek!!) Let's not turn over a new leaf now.

Sunday, my cute little family and I visited Latta Plantation. If you live in the Charlotte area and have not been there, please do so. NOW. There are so many things to do that you can go often and not get bored.

We picnicked close to the lake. Our kiddos are slight water freaks. Like every time we cross a bridge, you are sure to hear "Water!" from at least one, if not both of the speaking children. And so once we were finished eating (meaning we waited as long as we could hold Maecie off), we took a walk near the water. There are so many different trails with trees and rocks and interesting things to see and enjoy. I thought the kids might get a little bored without an actual playground, but they were so excited about nature, they didn't care.

And it was during this said walk that we met Sergeant and Mrs. Brown. Now, Clayton and Maecie are not shy children. I'm not sure where they get it from, because I will smile at people, but not really speak unless I know them. I'm not usually comfortable unless I'm in my own territory. However, this never stops these two from chatting away with whomever they pass.

Sergeant and Mrs. Brown were about in their mid to late 60's. They were seated, holding hands. And as we approached, they commented on our lovely family. Clayton pipes up informing them of his name and that he just started kindergarten. After a brief introduction, the Browns commented on how they had a child as well, but he was 32 years old now. But they have a grandchild. And grandchildren are just as precious. 

Between my middle of the night baby feedings, night time potty training, and combating a cold, I have been a little tired. A little cranky, if you will. And seeing this sweet couple, sitting on a park bench and enjoying one another's company with the quiet of nature came with a slight twinge of jealousy.

And then I thought, as the Browns commented on their child and grandchild, that they might have experienced the same slight twinge of jealousy. 

So today I'm enjoying ages 5, 2, and 6 months. Their entertaining stories, cute little dances, and army crawls!

I guess life is all about perspective.

Wednesday, October 10, 2012

Nostalgia...Gets Me Every Time!

Whether it's driving down a street, a smell in the kitchen, a saying, or a candy, little things can flood you with memories. And I am a sucker for remembering. 

Things that remind me of my childhood, my grandparents, great-grandparents, or other family and school friends are some of the memories I enjoy the most. They always seem to bring back the simpler times.

So when my children find a candy from "back in the day" that I haven't seen in a while, I become a pushover for the nostalgia!

One such time, we were in Home Depot to pick up a couple of items I needed for a craft project. The kiddos had been pretty good that day, traveling to a few different stores to pick up all the necessary items for my project. And I had promised them a treat for their good behavior. We get up to the check out and there are numerous candies and snacks to choose from. But something had already caught my little man's eye. When he asked for a Push Pop, I paused.


The colorful cap with the black writing. The yellow tube that sticks on your finger to push up the candy. It all sent me back to 3rd grade summer. My best friend, Kristy, and I would ride our bikes through the neighborhood and down some dirt paths to the convenience store. This little store was a bit intimidating, but together, we could do anything! And we would take whatever money we could gather from our piggy banks to buy candy. Chewy Sweetarts, Airheads, Push Pops, and Cow Tails .... memories!

Memories that make me a sucker for buying suckers for my kids! Maybe they will conjure memories for them as well!

What makes you nostalgic?

Monday, October 8, 2012

A Gentle Reminder

We spend most of our young lives going to school. We go every year for at least 13 years. Not because we will forget that 1+1=2, but because if we aren't using it daily, we will forget.

A majority go to church every week. Not because you forget that Jesus said "Love one another", but because you need that reminder after the SUV cut you off on the interstate, the cashier at the checkout gave you the wrong change, and you are starting to doubt people's abilities. 

These things don't make us inadequate, they just make us human.

This past weekend was what we Mormons (members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints) call General Conference. Twice a year we have the opportunity to hear from the leaders of our church, the prophet included. The speakers don't usually say anything we haven't heard before, we just need gentle reminders.

For example, in one talk we were reminded that just going to church on Sundays is not enough. We need to live Christ-like lives daily and be examples to our children, friends, and co-workers. It's not anything I hadn't heard before, yet it was a gentle reminder to live my life the way the Lord has intended.

I began a new job at the start of the school year as a music teacher for a preschool. I have the opportunity to sing songs with 1-5 year olds for 2-3 hours, two days a week. During this time, I share a scripture verse with them and have a short spiritual lesson.

Today, during such a time, I was reminded that I need to have these spiritual moments at home, with my children. I try to set an example and take advantage of teachable moments as one child takes a toy from another. But I don't always set aside time for a spiritual moment. We pray together. We read scriptures together. And yet, just taking a minute to say Jesus Christ loves you or remember to give thanks to Heavenly Father for all that you have ... well, those moments have escaped me.

So this evening I paused with my two oldest, opened up the scriptures and shared a spiritual thought with them. It was elaborate or fully planned. But it was intentional.

I am thankful for gentle reminders. I am still learning.

Thursday, September 27, 2012

Late Nights

When Daddy says it's going to be a late night, I confess ... I'm a little excited!

Now for our family, this doesn't happen too often. However, when he has a big project, and can, he may plan to work late. And "late", for my hubby, means 10pm or later. 

As I sat with the kiddos at the dinner table tonight and they were being their rowdy selves, I wondered how many other moms miss their husbands at dinner. {Even when Patrick isn't working "late", he is rarely home before 6:30pm. And for a 2 and 5 year-old, that is too late to start serving dinner. They are trying to munch or taste what's cooking by 5:15, so we usually eat around 5:30 or so.... with or without Dad.} How about the moms whose husbands travel or work late as a ritual? How do they do it? It's almost like being a single mom Monday through Friday. Dinner, bed time, and everything in between is done solo. Don't know that I could do that daily. For my sanity!

And yet, I have learned to enjoy these occasions. 

It means I can have a dedicated baking/shopping day without feeling like the house has to be spotless. {Not that it ever is!}

It means that the kids will get to bed on time. {Dad has a tendency to want to spend just an extra few minutes with them.}

It means I have time to blog. {Aren't you lucky?!}

It means I can catch up on my shows that I've missed. {since nothing comes on before 9 or 10pm and I'm only allowed to watch "Dora" during the day, I get behind a day or two....Thankful for DVR!}

It also means I can eat chocolate chip cookies with milk and not have anyone steal them.

Yep ... I enjoy these late nights. 

As long as they are few and far between!

Monday, September 24, 2012

Middle Child or Terrible Twos

My little Maecie Jane is 2 years old. She turned 2 about 10 days after Lucie was born. She has gorgeous long, blonde hair with a little curl in it. {to which I'm slightly envious of!} She loves to play with her dolls, her little sister and big brother, and sing songs. But when it comes to listening to directions, Maecie has a hard time. 


When I first brought down the exersaucer for Lucie from the attic, Maecie wanted to try it out. I explained that it was a toy for Lucie and she isn't supposed to sit in it. A little later, I caught her starting to climb in. But what was funny and caught me off guard was that she told me, "Mom, don't look!", and covered her eyes {so I couldn't see her} while continuing to climb in the exersaucer. 



What might be cute and funny the first few times, isn't frustrating the 10th and 12th time! 

Needless to say, Maecie has spent a lot of time in time out. And since she has seen her brother go to time out, she knows how it works. When her time is over {I do a minute for each year old the child is}, we talk about why she was in time out. I ask why she had to go to time out, and she always responds accurately. So surely she should know that being a good listener is what we are asking her to do. 

I even try to make sure {no one is perfect} that when she does follow directions, that we praise her for listening.

So why is it still occurring daily??

And it's not just me .... she has had a hard time following directions for her preschool babysitter {who watches both girls while I teach music}. 

The thought crossed my mind ... is she starting to show signs of "middle child syndrome"? Or is it just the "terrible twos"? Or do these two things even exist?

I generally believe that the "terrible twos" phase is more of kids asserting their independence and wanting to start doing things for themselves. And middle child syndrome is more that when the child, all of the sudden, isn't the center of attention, starts to feel left out. 

We have been trying to make sure Maecie gets some one on one attention from us and that we let her do the things she can do and still be safe. We are keeping track to see if we notice things improving.



What are your thoughts? Do you think there is such as thing as "terrible twos" or "middle child syndrome"? Or kids are just kids?

Monday, September 17, 2012

Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Muffins!!

It's Muffin Time! 
{And no, I don't mean the muffin top I've been sporting for a while!}
Muffins are such a great breakfast because you can eat them on the go and fill them with your favorite ingredients! 

Anyone stuck in a breakfast rut? How many times have you made/had cereal or oatmeal? Let's spice it up with these moist, delicious muffins!

These Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Muffins are my fave. My kids like to munch them for snacks, breakfast, and any time they can! I don't really know the nutritional value, but with oats and applesauce, what really could be that bad?!

Want to know how to make them??

Gather your ingredients: 

Start with butter (or margarine) and brown sugar and blend together.

Then add your egg and incorporate that. Next, in a separate bowl, mix together your flour {I used half whole wheat and half all-purpose and we couldn't tell a difference!}, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add a little of the flour mixture at a time, alternating with the applesauce so that the flour doesn't fly everywhere! {Trust me!}
Next, stir in your rolled oats and chocolate chips {cause everything is better with a little chocolate} or raisins or blueberries or whatever suits your fancy!

Bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes or until done.


That's it! Pair with a piece of fruit and you are done! How simple is that?! Not to mention, really yummy! 
Now get out of the breakfast rut and make some muffins!

Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Muffins Full Recipe: (adapted from All Recipes.com)
1/2 cup of butter or margarine (1 stick)
3/4 cup of brown sugar (I only used 1/2 a cup to cut out some of the sweet, especially since you use applesauce)
1 egg
1 cup of flour (I used half whole wheat and half all-purpose, but use what makes you happy)
1 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
3/4 cup applesauce
1 cup rolled oats
1 cup chocolate chips {I'm a semi-sweet girl, but feel free to add dark or milk or even white!} or use raisins or berries ... it's really versatile!

*In a large mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar. Add egg. Combine dry ingredients in a separate bowl. Alternately add flour mixture and applesauce to your butter and sugar mixture. Stir in rolled oats and chocolate chips. 

*Spoon into a greased or lined muffin tin. {I usually like to make mini-muffins} Bake in a 350 degree oven for 25 minutes. {If you use mini-muffins, decrease your time to about 10-12 minutes}

Friday, September 14, 2012

It's the Weekend!

It's Friday! And all that means is .... 

I made it through the week! 

Sometimes I feel like that is a huge accomplishment in and of itself. Here are some of the things that kept me going this week and made me smile!

 I got to finally make these yummy muffins ... they are my favorite and the kids gobble them up! And they aren't too bad for you either! {recipe coming soon...}

This little big kindergartener completed his first project and chose all of his own objects. He's too big for my liking at times...

I got ALL of these clothes at consignment sales this week {they are in full force in this town} ... the kids are SET for the fall/winter season!

Who can help but smile at that face?! She's great!!

Sometimes I just need a diet coke!

This cute chica dressed herself with her new boots....she is just so stinkin' cute too!

So food, clothes, and my kids are apparently my happy place! {At least for this week!} What helped you make it through the hustle and bustle this week?





Tuesday, September 11, 2012

A Ding-Dong Door Dilemma

When you have been "under construction" as long as we have, you begin to want something in order. Is it possible to have at least one place completely finished and inviting to guests?

Our house was built in 1965 and there have only been minimal changes by previous homeowners. And since I live with "Mr. Handyman" himself, we have undergone some major renovations of our own. We are soooo close to being done, and still so far away! If only we could win the lottery.....

Insert my "ding-dong door dilemma"...

I want at least one thing DONE! So I looked around the house and decided, an inviting front door would be the best place to start. And I'm going to do this myself {or at least with minimal help from the hubster}.

After taking a closer look, our front door was worse off than I had imagined. {insert embarrassed expression here}



I have colors that I like, but don't know what would look the best. Here is where you can help. I picked out the "Welcome" mat and the new door....now what color should the door be? Stick with the burgundy family? Go bold with a deep blue? Or blend more with a brown? Or do you have a better idea?? I always know what I like, but have a hard time executing.

So I'm asking for your help .... solve my "ding-dong dilemma" please!

Thursday, September 6, 2012

A Daily Reminder

I looked at the dishwasher full of clean dishes, and the sink, full of dirty dishes, and sighed. It's a chore I complete daily. Clean cups out, dirty cups rinsed and put in. Re-clean a dish that didn't quite come clean and put it back in the dishwasher a second time. {Please tell me I'm not the only one...}

Some days I feel bogged down with this chore. No one else in my home does the dishes on a daily basis. Yes, Clayton can help put the silverware away, and sometimes does. But now with school starting, he usually isn't home when the dishes are completed. And one time Patrick lost a bet and had to do the dishes for a week! {we bet on the Super Bowl...And I'll plan to do so again the next Super Bowl!!}

Otherwise, the chore is MINE! 

But today, I was reminded of a poem that sat in my grandmother's kitchen growing up. I can vividly remember standing in the kitchen with avocado green counter tops, looking up at the window sill, over the sink, at the small plaque that sat there. {I told you it was vivid} I said the words over and over to memorize them:

Thank God for dirty dishes, they have a tale to tell;
While other folks go hungry, we are so very well.
With home and health and happiness, we shouldn't want to fuss;
For by this stack of evidence, God is very good to us.

This little poem was and still is a small reminder that we are fortunate to have the things we do. So instead of dreading the dishes, I count them as a blessing. My family has food, our health, strength and home! We are so fortunate!!

What chore is your daily reminder of the blessings in your life??

Tuesday, September 4, 2012

It's a Daddy Thing...

I started joining in on this photo-a-day fun. It's a great reminder to take a picture once a day. Pictures are so powerful; they can make a memory or conjure one. If my house were to catch on fire {after grabbing my kids} I would grab my pictures. They would be the things I missed the most.

So in this photo-a-day gig, you take a picture that has to do with the list created every month. I snap it and name it and post it to my instagram.  You can interpret your pictures however you prefer. And it's always interesting to see someone else's view point. 

The second day was titled "father". We were actually visiting my parents and I was planning to take a picture of my dad. However, my littlest fell asleep with daddy holding her and I could not miss this photo opportunity...

The picture started me thinking about the father/daughter relationship. My dad and I have a good relationship. I always felt protected AND if I only asked my daddy, I could get just about anything I wanted. Like when we went to Disney World and I wanted a Princess hat, all I had to do was ask my Dad and his answer was, "Anything you want, sweetheart!". {Of course, I was 17 years old at the time, so I might have looked a little silly, but he just wanted to be able to give me all of the things I wanted.}

Now that I have my own daughters, I see that father/daughter relationship from the very beginning. My hubby is so enamored with our girls. He holds them so preciously, wants to keep them so near and safe, and can't even stand to think that one day they will go on a date!

I constantly tease him that both of our daughters have him wrapped. He never denies it, but always tries to shrug it off! 

It's not just in our family ... I've seen examples of this Daddy/Daughter thing on TV as well. Recently, while watching So You Think You Can Dance {my fave summer show!}, I was able to catch a glimpse of someone else with that special bond. An 18 year old ballroom dancer talked about hiding her costumes from her Dad. He has a hard time with his little girl dancing for the world to see. My hubby had to agree {I make him watch with me!!}

Do you have a special daddy/daughter relationship? Or do you see one forming in your own family?

Thursday, August 30, 2012

Cabin Fever Crafts

We stayed home and cleaned the house today. And even though it was clean enough for a friend to come over, I didn't feel like I accomplished anything but fussing at the kids and baking more fattening food. {On a side note, why is it every time you are trying to lose weight, all you want is sweets?! UGH!} And to top it all off, it RAINED.....

So what do you do when you have cabin fever??  You break out some boxes, of course!!

We took advantage of the 5 minutes between down pours and pulled out some empty boxes. Immediately, number 1 wanted to make a house. Initially, he wanted to just share one, but I knew that would not work well with number 2. She has a mind of her own and has to do things her way. {Where ever did she get such an independence streak?! .... I have NO idea...}

We broke out the crayons {the REAL, Crayola crayons ... not the waxy substitutes (for my friend's peace of mind)} and made them into cute little homes for my sweet kiddies! Here is what they came up with:

 The little princess(who dresses herself) designing her house

 Welcome to the "Unicorn House" ... because it's not enough to make a house, you have to name it too!

Hard at work, covering every inch with color!

He named his "A Boosgan House" ... whatever that means! Some kind of restaurant he said. He has quite the imagination!

We like to create and craft when we have cabin fever ... What do you do when you are all couped up?!

**For those wondering, these were taken before the water slide came down...don't worry, it has all been taken down now!**

Tuesday, August 28, 2012

Choosing Not to Battle

Ever heard anyone say 'choose your battles'? This is a saying I didn't utilize as much until children came into the picture. You know, like when your two-year-old cries and screams and kicks around the floor because it's time to go to church and she wants to wear her tennis shoes instead of her dress shoes. Or when your five-year-old turns on the waterworks because you won't let him watch the same television show for the fourth time in a row. These are the times to 'choose your battles'

>Is it more important to get to church or for your daughter to wear a certain pair of shoes? 

>Should you endure your son's waterworks and pitiful crying or let his brain go to mush? 

....For me, I chose to let my daughter wear her tennis shoes and to endure my son's crying (for the 2 minutes it lasted until I got him distracted making bread for dinner). 

I often choose my battles and decide what is worth the fight and what is not. For me, it's pretty simple. If it's for their safety, too much money, or for my sanity, I fight. If it's not going to hurt anyone or I'm too tired, I give in!

Exhibit G: My daughter's "pajamas" tonight....
In case you can't tell, that is a bathing suit and her cover up. When told to put on pajamas, this is what she brought out. I attempted twice to change her mind, but that was not happening. So I decided it wasn't going to hurt her, it would be okay this one time. Naturally, she responded with, "yep, that's better!". Such an independent little girl!

What battles have you chosen to fight or not to fight recently? 

Thursday, August 23, 2012

When Dinner Flops...

We had a great day Monday ... really, we did! I took all three kiddos to a doctor's visit {first time I've done that and they did pretty darn well}, went to "The One Dollar Store" as my number 1 calls it, even dropped off a prescription at the pharmacy. {I still haven't picked it back up yet, but you have to know your limits with 3 children!} Later, we made homemade soft pretzels that I pinned from this website here. They were amazing, by the way...

And then dinner came...

I had planned to make some Italian Chicken - chicken with canned tomatoes, garlic, basil, marscapone cheese, served over noodles - and french bread. I don't know what I did different, but the chicken was slightly dry and the french bread was flat! And then, of course, I got a little frustrated when number 2 removes the noodles from her plate and onto her napkin, number 1 demands that he will NOT eat that chicken, and number 3 just wants to be held.

Why is it that the dinners I plan and put effort into are the ones the kids dislike the most? They would be happy with hot dogs, chicken nuggets, mac-n-cheese, and ramen noodles. Hubby is happy with meat and starch ... forget trying to make anything fancy. Should I just give up and make the same boring meals day in and day out?

What do you do? Do you make meals everyone loves even if you don't? Or do you try to broaden your children's {or hubby's} palates?

We are all entitled to something a little more adult meals every now and then, right?

Tuesday, August 21, 2012

Conquering Public Places

I confess ... three children is quite the zoo sometimes - especially when they are 5 years, 2 years, and 5 months old! Yet a friend commented, "you make 3 look so easy!". And our pediatrician has even asked, "How do you do it?" Here's the true story...

When number 3 was born, we didn't go many places. Not just because I had a new baby, but because there were three of them and one of me! I was out numbered, out handed {ya know, only having two hands} and pretty much just scared. I have refused invitations to birthday parties, knowing I would have to go alone.  I have grocery shopped at 10pm just so I wouldn't have to take the kids. I passed on fun summer outings for fear that one of the walking children might run from me and then I would have to chase after them, leaving a baby behind, or worse, running with a baby in tow. Oh the nightmares I have concocted!!

But after a couple of months of hiding, I decided I was not doing myself or my children any good. They do need to learn how to behave in public. I do need to get out of the house every once in a while to be my best self. So how do I make it happen??

>Start Small ... To start, we went to Target where they have the giant shopping carts. I strapped the big ones in the seats and placed the baby carrier in the cart. The whole way through we talked about what you can and cannot touch in the store. We also discussed why it's important to stay close to mommy at all times.

>Be Prepared ... I never leave home without snacks, pens and paper, maybe some stickers or other "happy makers". A small diversion could mean dodging a huge meltdown! If you are out to eat or have to wait in a waiting room, try some of these games. So fun!

>Plan, Plan, Plan ... don't leave home without a plan. Where are you going? How long will you be gone? Discuss this with your children so they also know the plan.

>Know Your Limits ... And when I say your limits, I mean yours and your children's. If you know they can handle the park, but you want to pick up a loaf of bread before heading home, consider your options. For me, I would get the bread before the park since my kiddos will play til they are exhausted. 

>Allow for Flexibility ... Even if you have planned and considered your children's capabilities, it might not always go as planned. So allow yourself some room to bend. If I plan to get bread first and the kids start to fuss as we pull into the parking lot, it might be better to go to the park first. Then try for bread later. {or tomorrow, which ever works!}

So when the doctor asks, "How do you do it?", I respond with, "One day at a time." ... Going with the flow and allowing your kids to be kids, while still trying to teach them.

 I might have a zoo at times. And that's okay with me! That's my confession, Mama!

Monday, August 20, 2012

First Day Jitters

My oldest is about to start school.... Kindergarten! This little boy of mine is so excited! When we went to check out the school he will attend back in April, he wanted to start the very next day. I explained to him that other students were  using the classroom right then and the teachers just weren't ready for him yet. I told him he would have to wait until August. He then told everyone we saw, {grandma's, uncles, friends, strangers at the grocery store} that the teachers didn't want him until August! 

Number 1 is such a lively fella ... he likes to run, jump, roar at his sisters, do super cool tricks, and "art" daily! I know that he will love school and come home with so much more knowledge than I could offer him. But I've got first day jitters.

>Kindergarten means we have a set schedule Monday thru Friday.
>Kindergarten means my best helper will be gone 7 hours out of the day, without me knowing his every move, and in someone else's care!
>Kindergarten means that as soon as he gets home, we have just enough time to do homework, eat dinner, maybe take a walk around the block, bath and bed!
>Kindergarten means we are all going to be tired!

And I keep wondering .... Have I prepared him well? Will he be on his best behavior? Is he going to adjust well? Will I adjust well? Is he going to make new friends the first day? Will his teacher be able to keep his attention... or worse, find him disruptive?

So many questions that I don't know the answer to and won't know until it happens. I can't "google" to find the answer and I can't follow him around everyday just to ease my mind.

This Mama Beare needs to know .... How did you do it? How did you adjust? OR do you think I'm crazy and just need to let go? You tell me....How did you get rid of first day jitters??