Happy Homemaker Monday - 12/16/13

Good morning!

I said I wasn't going to do this for the rest of December because of being so busy but I have some time to kill this morning so I will.  Joining in with Sandra at Diary Of A Stay At Home Mom.  I will not be participating in this next week and will be going on a blogging and Facebook hiatus while I enjoy time with family.  My son and husband will both be on vacation and so I have decided to go on an internet vacation and give them all my full attention.  So I will go ahead and wish you all a Merry Christmas and look forward to finding more things to write about in the new year.  See y'all in 2014!

As I look outside my window::

Snow lays on the ground as well as some icy spots.  It's freezing outside this morning.  More snow in the forecast tomorrow.  Snow is pretty but I'm ready for it to be over.  

Right now I am::

Sitting on the couch watching the local news and drinking a cup of coffee.  Waiting for my little princess to wake up so we can get on with our day.  

Thinking and pondering::

About Christmas and all the shopping that needs to be done.  I hate being a last minute shopper but that's how it is every year.  We have only purchased a few things for the kids and that's it.  Terrible, isn't it?  Shopping for others is so hard.  I don't know what to get my parents or my husband's parents.  What do you get for people who already have everything they need?  

On my bedside table::

My Bible which I have to remember to pick up and read more often than I do.  Sometimes I just read the Bible that is downloaded on my Kindle.  

A Thousand Tomorrows by Karen Kingsbury on my Kindle.  

On my TV tonight::

I imagine it will be a Christmas movie.  I love Christmas movies!

Playing on the radio::

A variety of Christmas music.  

On the menu::

Still have to decide for the week ...

Monday - kielbasa and pierogies

Tuesday - chicken and dumplings

Wednesday - 

Thursday - tacos and spanish rice

Friday - pizza

Saturday - 

Sunday - 

On my to do list::

Clean and organize the mess that has accumulated in this house.  

Laundry

Meal plan for the remainder of the week

Buy groceries

Christmas shopping

Looking around the house::

The beautiful Christmas tree sits in the corner of the living room, a few other holiday decorations around, toys everywhere, dishes on the kitchen counter ready to dry and put away. 

What I am sewing, crocheting, knitting or creating::

This weekend I baked lots of cookies and Christmas shaped Jell-O jigglers.

My simple pleasure::

A cup of hot chocolate or hot cappuccino after being out in the cold weather

Lesson learned the past week::

My son is very sensitive and always cries so easily over the smallest issues.  My daughter, on the other hand, seems to be very strong-willed and bossy.  It's been tough trying to find ways to parent these two but I am figuring out that I have to accept them for who they are and embrace it. 

From the camera::

 

Prayer list::

My husband who has been dealing with a lot of hip pain and also the typical pain and soreness from his arthritis.  It's hard for a wife to see her husband in so much pain all the time and not being able to do anything for him.  

My other family and friends that their needs will be met.  

Bible verse/Devotional::

 "And the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus." -- Luke 1:30 - 31

Snow

I'm not going to participate in the Happy Homemaker Monday today.  I'm just not organized enough for that today.  I will probably take a break from it for the rest of this month.  December is a busy time.  Preparing for Christmas, my husband is using a lot of vacation days throughout the month and I've been so caught up with trying to get this house in some type of organized order.

I did decide, however, to write about the snow that graced us yesterday.  I'm not a winter weather person because I do not like the cold at all; however, the kids seem to enjoy the snow and it was a nice change.  It was nice particularly because the snow came on a Sunday when there was no work and no school.  We were all able to just stay at home and enjoy the falling snow from the warmth of our home.  Of course, we took some time to enjoy it outdoors as well.

My son is already a veteran with playing in the puffy white stuff but this was the first time for my daughter.  As cold as it was she really seemed to enjoy it and kept saying, "I love snow!"

 

We only had a few inches and it's all starting to melt.  My son had a two hour delay from school today and fell once on the way to the bus stop all because of some icy spots.  The other kids fell too.  More snow in the forecast tomorrow.  

Snow was never my favorite thing but it really is nice seeing the joy in my children's eyes as they play and have fun with it.  That's enough to make me enjoy it ... a little bit.  

The Season Has Begun

Can you believe that it's almost Christmas?  22 days to be exact!  My son is counting down and reminds me every morning of how many days we have.  He's so excited.  My daughter, being only two, still doesn't quite understand what Christmas is all about but seeing the tree and the decorations are enough to get her excited.  When she sees Santa she'll say "Jesus" but that's okay.  It's the best time of the year for these children and I love seeing the holidays through their eyes.

The day after Thanksgiving we took all the decorations out of the attic and started to set everything up.  The artificial pre-lit tree we've had for the last 7 or so years had a few strands of lights that stopped working.  My husband,who already tried fixing it last year, decided instead of fussing over it again it was time to get a new one.  The new one is smaller than the other but it's perfect.  The kids busied themselves decorating most of it.  There are still plenty of bare spots around the tree but that just leaves more room to add onto our ornament collection in the years to come.  We have a tradition of buying a new ornament or two each year and that's something we still have to do for this year.  We don't have many decorations for the house but what we have is enough.

 

 The angel that sits on top of our tree was a gift from my mother-in-law years ago.  She keeps watch over us during the Christmas season.  

The stockings are hanging from a shelf in our living room.  In the middle is our porcelain nativity scene, also from Mother-In-Law. 

 A little garland wraps around the bannister.  Excuse the boxes.  They have to go back in the attic.

And here's my homemade snowman behind the door.  I love this!  Thank you Pinterest!  

We have a collection of stuffed toys too.  The children had fun adding window cling stickers to the living room window.

Our next step is getting the outside decorating done but since my husband has been fighting a horrible cold he hasn't had the chance.  I love how the neighborhood homes are already setting up.

I started a new tradition with the kids.  I bought them each an advent calendar.  Every day you open up a door and there is a small chocolate candy surprise.  My uncle bought one for me when I was little and I've been wanting to do the same for my kids.  I also found an advent calendar you can do with Bible verses but we have some catching up to do there.

Also, this time of year means lots of food, candy, cake, pies, etc. will be consumed.  A good reason to break a sweat with the 30 Day Challenge.

Happy Homemaker Monday - 12/2/13

Good afternoon!  I wasn't going to participate in this today because I'm so busy and it is the last day off for my son before he heads back to school but I figured I might as well try and take a little break.  We've been so busy around the house with Thanksgiving, cleaning up after Thanksgiving, decorating for Christmas and enjoying each others company while my son and husband were off.  This is my first time getting on here in days.  So here I go joining Diary of A Stay At Home Mom again. 

  As I look outside my window::
Cold.  Bitter.  Maybe some snow this week?

Right now I am::
Taking a break from the cleaning.  My son is playing across the street at a friend's house while the little one is napping.  

Thinking and pondering::
Of the fun I had yesterday with three friends from middle school/high school.  I met them right after moving here from Long Island and they've been great friends to have.  We lost touch for awhile but got back together thanks to social media.  We met up for brunch and had a good time.  Hoping to do it again soon.  

On my bedside table::
I finished reading Just Beyond the Clouds by Karen Kingsbury and I'd like to download another book to my Kindle this week.
My Bible

On my tv tonight::
Bakery Boss

Playing on the radio::
A mix of Christmas music

On the menu::
We are turkeyed out.  We've had leftovers every day since Thanksgiving, except yesterday when we treated ourselves to pizza.  Unsure of what to cook tonight and the rest of the week.  I must decide!

On my to do list::
Clean, clean, clean!
Create a Christmas present for my hubby.  One he knows he gets every year.
Figuring out what to get everyone for Christmas.
More decorating.  
Parent/Teacher conference - my first one as the parent instead of the student.  

What I am sewing, crocheting, knitting or creating::

Saw this idea on Pinterest and thought it would look cute on the inside of our plain white front door.  I cut out the eyes, mouth, buttons and nose with construction paper and made the scarf from wrapping paper.  A little corny but I'm happy with it and the kids love it.  

My simple pleasure::
On these cold almost winter nights it's been great curling up on the couch with a hot cup of tea, a book or my Kindle and my husband rubbing my feet ... yes I'm SPOILED!  

Lesson learned the past week::
I've allowed certain people and certain situations to bother me too much and I've held onto the pain it's caused for quite some time.  My husband, who is so easy going and able to brush things off his shoulders, has reminded me that it doesn't matter what anyone else thinks.  Aside from him and our children no one else and nothing else should matter.  It seems so much easier for him to have that thought process but not so much for me but I have to learn to let it all go and live the life I need to live regardless of how others are going to judge me.

From the camera::

Prayer list::
My husband who is having a rough time getting over a cold that we've all been passing around.
My mom who is also sick. 

Bible verse/Devotional::
"For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord" -- Romans 8:38-39

A Way To Spend A Rainy Day

It's the day before Thanksgiving and my son's first day off of a six day vacation.  It's rainy and cold outside so we're stuck in the house.  We have no plans except for getting the house clean and organized since we're entertaining a house full of family tomorrow.  I came up with a great idea that made the kids happy and are keeping them occupied. 

I am not the best fort maker but the kids love it.  We also popped some popcorn and my son is drinking hot chocolate while my daughter is drinking chocolate milk.  Her first time drinking chocolate milk.  Toy Story 3 is playing on the television and they are both is awe.  I'm glad I can make them happy and it's a good way to occupy them while I get some cleaning done. 

Wishing you all a Happy Thanksgiving tomorrow. 

Happy Homemaker Monday - 11/25/13

I wasn't going to participate in this today because I have so much to do today.  The house is a mess and there is a lot that needs done to prepare for Thanksgiving in three days.  We're expecting 9 or 10 people for dinner so I'd like this house cleaned and reorganized so we can fit an extra table and chairs in the dining room/ living room area.  Also, because of my son's birthday there are new toys all over the living room.  It's a mess, mess mess ... but I'd love to take a little break and write this up.  Plus my son only has two days of school before having six days off so I'll be even busier when he's home.

For his birthday we went to a few places he chose and then my parents as well as sister-in-law came over for pizza and cake.  I didn't have a big party with friends this year and that seemed to be okay with him.  Maybe next year.  This morning I delivered some cupcakes to his class.  

As I look outside my window::

It's cold, windy, chilly ... everything I despise about this time of year.  

Right now I am::

Typing this up while cooking my lunch.  Little one is napping which makes it a perfect time to get things done.  

Thinking and pondering::

Of all the things that need done around the house and the menu planning for Thanksgiving.  I can't believe the year is almost over.  

On my bedside table::

My Bible

Just Beyond the Clouds by Karen Kingsbury on my Kindle.  

Both baby books still in need of updating.  

On my TV tonight::

I'm not sure but I'd love to snuggle on the couch and watch a movie with the family

Playing on the radio::

I hate to admit this because I usually wait until AFTER Thanksgiving but lately I've been listening to Christmas music.  It's hard to get in the spirit so early but hey, why not?

On the menu for this week::

Tonight we are having leftover chicken noodle soup.  Hubby made it the other day and there's a lot left.  It's so good.  Then there's the big Thanksgiving meal on Thursday - turkey, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, fried mushrooms, corn, stuffing, rolls, cranberry sauce and desserts.  Did I leave anything out?  The rest of the week is to be determined.  I'm sure it will be lots of leftovers to help clear the refrigerator.  

On my to do list::

Clean, dry and put away the dishes that are currently soaking in the sink

Laundry

Call the pediatrician for my son's 6 year check up.  Just tried calling but I was on hold for so long.

Clean, clean, clean!

Shop for all things needed for Thanksgiving

Then after Thanksgiving get all the Christmas decorations out of storage and start decorating.  

Maybe, just maybe, take the family to the amusement park that sets up for Christmas.  

What I am sewing, knitting, crocheting or creating::

Nothing at the moment but I will be baking up some good desserts for dinner on Thursday.  

My simple pleasure::

Last night my hubby and I snuggled together on the couch drinking hot cocoa and sharing a candy cane flavored Hershey bar we bought at the chocolate factory.  Oh that was sooooo good!

Lesson learned the past week::

That no matter how I try to forget certain things in my past the Lord always has a reason for bringing it back up in my mind again.  I don't want to go into detail, and it's not so bad.  Sometimes I just need these reminders. 

Looking around the house::

A mess of toys and children's books.  My slice of pizza sitting next to me waiting to be devoured.  7th Heaven on the TV.  

From the camera::

Prayer list::

My family - we've all been passing around colds.  Hoping we don't keep passing it on all winter long.

Other family members and friends

Bible verse/Devotional::
"Praise the LORD. Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever." -- Psalm 106:1

Six

The house is very quiet.  The only thing I can hear is the ticking of the clock that hangs on the living room wall.  Occasionally I can hear the wind blowing. Everyone is asleep ... except me, obviously.  My son and I are getting over colds and my husband and daughter are fighting one now.  My husband took some medicine and headed to bed early.  Poor guy has been miserable all day and so has the little one.  I hope they are able to kick these colds away because we are about to celebrate my son's sixth birthday. 

Every year I ask myself the same question.  Where does time go?  Six years ago on this exact day was my due date but it seems like yesterday.  In 10 years he'll be legally able to get his driver's license and in 12 years he'll be considered an adult and a soon-to-be high school graduate.  I just can't fathom that.  I tucked him into bed a few hours ago and felt my emotions run high when I realized it was the last time I'd see him as a five year old.  Call me crazy, but I don't handle this aging thing so well. 

And every year I always replay the events that took place during the moments leading up to my children's birth. 

My due date was the day after Thanksgiving.  I was never a Black Friday shopper so my husband and I made it a yearly tradition to stay home and decorate for Christmas on that day.  I was feeling fine on my due date, just very huge and bloated.  Since this little man's arrival was unknown we decided to go ahead and decorate on Black Friday, just as we did in years past.  We ate leftover Thanksgiving dinner and then went to bed feeling a little disappointed that labor hadn't started.  Although I know babies rarely come on the due date.  I actually had a feeling he would be really late.  Nope.  At some point in the night I woke up feeling cramps in my lower stomach.  It went away quickly and I thought nothing of it so I fell back asleep.  Then I woke up to the feeling again ... and again.  Okay at that point I realized something must be going on.  I got out of bed quietly so I wouldn't wake my husband and as soon as I entered the bathroom the pain struck me again.  So I snuck downstairs and started timing each contraction.  The next one came after 20 minutes and then the rest came every 4 - 5 minutes.  I called the doctor's office and stated that my contractions were 5 minutes apart but my water had not broke.  The doctor ordered me to go to the hospital to get checked out.  Eeek!  I woke up my husband and we made it to the hospital by 4:30 am. 

Because of an emergency c-section the doctor wasn't able to see me until 6 am.  He checked me and told the nurse to admit me because I was in labor.  That was the moment it all became real to me.  I was about to have a baby.  I WAS ABOUT TO HAVE A BABY?  Wait, what?  Was I ready for this?  I'm going to be a mother? 

Sure enough after several hours of labor and three hours of pushing - YES 3 HOURS OF PUSHING - the baby wasn't making his way down so the doctor said a c-section was needed.  I was prepared for that.  Both my sisters had c-sections and apparently I had the same issue as them.  So after all that pain and agony I was wheeled into the delivery room and moments later a precious little 7 lb 14 oz baby was born. 

And now I have a six year old who is everything from sweet, kindhearted, sensitive, stubborn and ornery.  I don't know what I'd do without him in my life. 

Now I hear the little one crying.  She's been crying on and off and I'm pretty sure this is going to be along night.  Ugh.  Please pray for her sickness. 

Happy Homemaker Monday - 11/18/13

 Okay, another Monday is upon us.  Time to link up again with Diary Of A Stay At Home Mom for Happy Homemaker Monday.

 

As I look outside my window::

The air is warm and beautiful but it's windy.  The day to day change in weather is crazy.  How is it we go from 60 degrees to 48 degrees in one day?  Pennsylvania living!

Right now I am::

Typing up this blog while I'm eating a slice of leftover pizza for lunch, getting laundry and dishes done, wrapping a birthday present for Matthew and a million other things.  It's amazing what we homemakers can do all at once, isn't it?  Also feeling very congested and fighting a cold. 

Thinking and pondering::

Of so much.  First of all my son's birthday is this week and I have so much to do.  Instead of having a party we let him decide what he wanted to do for the day and he came up with a few ideas.  We also will have pizza and cake with close family later in the evening.  Also thinking of Thanksgiving and how I'll have a house filled with people.  I don't mind it at all, in fact, I look forward to it.  Then there will be Christmas to get ready for.  It all comes by so quickly. 

On my bedside table::

Currently reading two books on my Kindle - Just Beyond the Clouds by Karen Kingsbury and the second book to the 50 Shades of Grey series.  Yes, a big difference between the two.  I'm not enjoying the 50 Shades so much.

On my tv tonight::

As I have stated before, we don't have a set show on Monday nights as of now so it will be whatever my husband decides to watch while flipping through the channels.  

Playing on the radio::

I Won't Give up by Jason Mraz on Pandora.  I love that song.  Can't explain why.  I just do. 

On the menu::

Monday - chicken, scalloped potatoes, broccoli

Tuesday - tacos and rice

Wednesday - pasta

Thursday - ham (sides undecided)

Friday - 

Saturday - 

Sunday - pizza and cake for the birthday boy 

On the to do list::

List items on Craigslist.  Already listed and sold two items, just listed a third and will have to decide on what else.  The extra money is coming in handy for birthday and Christmas shopping. 

Cleaning.

Wrap a present we just picked up for my son and have to go buy another one.

Get a menu plan going for Thanksgiving next week.  Yes I'm hosting it!

Still have to buy items to put in the shoe box for Operation Christmas Child.  

Gather the kids clothes that no longer fit and see if the consignment shop will take them.  If not, then it will be something else to list on CL.  

What I'm sewing, knitting, crocheting or creating::

 

I had an idea to create a Thankful Tree to display in our home.  I wanted it to be a family project but the kids weren't too interested.  My hubby helped cut out some of the leaves and I did the rest.  We'll add more.  There are so many reasons to be thankful.

My simple pleasure::

Lately it's been relaxing on the couch and reading my Kindle with a hot cup of green tea.  

Lesson learned the past week::

Well, this certainly isn't a lesson learned but more of an observation and a goal.  My temper and anger are a big issue and it's taken over a part of my life I don't want it to.  Don't worry, I'm not going to beat anyone up or anything.  I just need to learn to control it better because my attitude does affect those around me.  

 Looking around the house::

I'm in the kitchen so I see a mess of dishes in the sink that need to be washed and a pile of papers that need sorted.  

From the camera::

Big brother loves to play with little sister, even if it's Disney Princesses.  Both sporting their Redskins pride.

On my prayer list::

I have my own issues I've been asking God to help me through

My sister-in-law as she searches for a job

My children, always praying that their needs will be met

My husband and the physical pain he's been enduring and also that he's able to find the right doctor for a much needed surgery.  

That our financial needs will be met.  So far we're pretty lucky

Continued healing for my mom after the stroke she had over a year ago.  She's doing great!  Also for my father who has been her caregiver.  He needs the strength to continue to take care of her.  He's been amazing.  

Our country, because the direction it's going isn't good (and you can argue with me all you want about it but it's true).  

Bible verse/Devotional::

 "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest" -- Matthew 11:28 (NIV)

Have a great week everyone! 

Bootcamp And A No Excuse Workout

A friend asked me to join her in trying out a 'boot camp' exercise class.  She knows the trainers from high school and wanted to give it a try.  I've heard of these boot camp classes and heard they are great.  The first class was free so I decided to go ahead and join in.  The class is located in the parking lot of my son's elementary school.  Yes, you heard it right.  Outside ... in a parking lot ... in the dark ... in the cold.  My first thought was what is she getting me into?  Actually, it wasn't that bad as far as the temperature was concerned.  It didn't take long before I went from being cold to extremely warm and sweaty.  It was a small group of people who were very welcoming, sweet and encouraging.  I don't see people like that in my Zumba class so it was nice.  The exercising itself was hard ... very hard.  At one point I thought I was going to throw up but I was determined to keep going.  I had a good workout and felt it this morning.  I'm not sure if my friend wants to continue with it.  I'd love to get myself involved in a class like this because when I'm around other people I feel the push to keep it going.  When I work out at home it's so much easier to give up and stop when it becomes too much.  You never want to stop.  The burn, the sweat, the torture you feel while exercising is good ... KEEP GOING! 

I found this exercise circuit on Pinterest and decided to give it a try this morning.  This was definitely a good start to the day. 

Happy Homemaker Monday - 11/11/13

Happy Veteran's Day!  A huge THANK YOU to those who served!

 

As I look outside my window::

The sun is shining, the leaves have fallen off of most of the trees and it's cold.  47 degrees so it's not too bad but they are calling for snow at some point this week.  Yuck.  I'm not a cold or snow person, but it does make my son happy.  

Right now I am::

Sipping a cup of coffee, writing up this blog and listening to my two children play together.  My son has the day off from school and we spent the morning playing and getting books at the library.  Then we had lunch and now the kids are playing for a bit in my son's room.  So far they are playing very nicely together and that makes me happy.  Also waiting for the dishes to finish in the dish washer and the laundry to finish in both washer and dryer before another load goes in.  

Thinking and pondering::

About my son's upcoming birthday.  These last 6 years have gone by so fast.  He's been asking for a few very expensive items for his birthday or Christmas.  I'd love to be able to give my kids everything they wanted but that's not realistic.  I know I write a lot about how hyper he is but truthfully he's an overall great kid.  He doesn't get into too much trouble (nothing outside of being a typical 5 year old) and is doing great in school.  I'm proud of him.  

On my bedside table::

My friend sent me a copy of 50 Shades of Grey for my Kindle.  I've been slowly reading it.  I think she gave me the download almost a year ago and I haven't finished it.  It's not typically my type of book and I got halfway through and grew bored ... but I'm determined to finish it just because I said I would.  

On my tv tonight::

I guess it will be whatever we find while flipping through the channels.  Matthew said he wanted to watch Jurassic Park since he got the book at the library.  We have it on DVR.  

Playing on the radio::

Alvin & the Chipmunks channel on Pandora.  Yes this is the kind of stuff I'm forced to listen to with small children ... I don't mind.  

On the menu::

I may just make a quick pasta meal since I need to be out of the house a little after 5 tonight.  Joining a friend for some kind of exercise thing.  

As usual the rest of the week is TBD

On my to do list::

~Clean house

~Birthday shopping and planning for Matthew

~List more items to be sold on Craiglist.  I just sold a toy tool bench that was my son's.  He got it for Christmas at age 2 but hasn't been playing with it anymore.  It's been collecting dust in his room and he gave me the ok to sell it.  

~Buy items to put in the shoe box for Operation Christmas Child, an organization our church helps out with every year.  They hand out shoe boxes and we buy different toys and anything that will fit into the shoe box to be sent to a child around the world.  We can chose boy or girl.  Matthew wanted to pick a boy his age.  We'll be picking up another box so we can do one for a girl as well.  

What I am sewing, knitting, crocheting or creating::

I made this for my parents' anniversary.  I wanted to give them real flowers but we couldn't afford it so I thought this would be the next best thing.  I bought the wooden vase at AC Moore for $1.  I used rocks that were in our garden.  I cut out flowers using construction paper and a flower cookie cutter and then put pictures of the kids in the middle.  My son colored the vase.

My simple pleasure::

Blogging.  I love having a place to jot down my thoughts and experiences and also getting to read others.  

Lesson learned the past week::

 As much as I love my kids and being with them it's healthy to step away and have some me time.  It is also better for them to have time away from me as well.  I was able to enjoy some time away last Friday during a wine tasting event with a friend.  It was fun.  I had a chance to step away, do something for me and come back feeling renewed.  It also gave me a chance to miss the kids. 

Looking around the house::

The kids are playing peacefully with each other and toys are all over the place.  It's nice having my son home today and being able to enjoy both children.  

From the camera::

On my prayer list::

Those who are on active duty in the military that they return home safely.

My family & friends

My children

My husband

Financial issues - my husband works hard and we're able to have enough to get by but in today's economy it's tough to know what the future will hold.  Only God knows.  

Bible Verse/Devotional::

"Going to church doesn't make you a Christian.  I can sit in my garage all day and that doesn't make me a car" -- Joyce Meyer

I heard Joyce Meyer say this during one of her television shows and I've loved this quote since.  She was referring to the people who believe all they need to do is show up for church for one hour a week and that's it.  God doesn't just want your time for that one hour each week.  He wants your time every moment of every day.  Being a Christian means constantly living for God. 

--Happy Homemaker Monday was created by Sandra at Diary Of A Stay At Home Mom.  Check out her page and below her HHM post is a list of others who are also participating. 

Celebrating 43 Years of Love

Today is a special day.  My parents are celebrating 43 years of marriage.  It's not often we hear of marriages lasting this long anymore and with the divorce rate of over 50% it's nothing short of amazing when couples make it this far.  Trust me, my parents didn't have it easy in these 43 years.  There were many times when I thought they were going to give up and leave one another.  Their marriage saw many hard times and probably worse than any marriage I have ever known.  Yet, they stuck it out and made it last.  They believed in working hard to keep the vows they made at the altar.

As parents they did the best they could in raising us.  I could never say that I wasn't wanted (according to my mom they tried for 2 years to conceive me) and they've loved me unconditionally.  We've had plenty of good times as well as hard times but we all got through.

After my mother had her stroke my dad stepped up and proved to be more amazing than we ever thought he could be.  He takes such great care of her.

I have learned so much about marriage from my parents.  I learned the promise you make at the altar is not one to be taken lightly.  In sickness and health, until DEATH do us part.  I learned that it takes a lot of selflessness; putting the other one above everything else.  I've learned the importance of forgiving each other in our mistakes.  I've also learned that marriage is worth fighting for and worth being a part of.

Thank you Mom and Dad.  I love you both so much!  HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!!!

Happy Homemaker Monday - 11/4/13

Hello everyone!  I hope you enjoyed the weekend.  Mine was good.  My son's last fall ball game was Saturday and then I rushed off to attend a wedding for a friend from high school.  Sunday was just spent with the family.  We went to church and then relaxed at home.  My husband was able to enjoy a win from the Redskins so he went to work this morning showing team spirit with his burgundy and gold Redskins tie. 

And now it's time for Happy Homemaker Monday.  I do enjoy doing this so much!  I'm joining the creator Sandra at Diary of A Stay At Home Mom.  Go check hers out and the others that participate.  It's so much fun.  Thanks for the opportunity, Sandra.  I'll be typing this up while getting lots of other things done too. 

HAPPY HOMEMAKER MONDAY - 11/4/2013

As I look outside my window:

The sun is shining bright.  However the weather is cold.  Too cold!  I don't like the cold.  According to my thermostat it is currently 34 degrees outside.  We were bundled up in winter coats this morning at the bus stop.  Also, the leaves on the trees have changed colors and most have fallen to the ground.  I love all the red, orange and yellow leaves.  Fall is full of beauty, isn't it?  I could live without the bitter cold though.  

Right now I am:

Doing a lot of things and taking breaks here and there to write this up.  The little one is eating lunch and when she finishes I'm going to lay her down for a nap.  I'm also working on laundry, dishes and lots of other housework.  My son's friend is coming over after school to play video games so I'm trying to get everything done beforehand.  Although, his friend's little sister will be here too so I guess there is no point in cleaning up the toys since they'll be playing with them anyway.  At some point I need to get some exercising done.  According to my 30 Day Challenge (see previous post) I have a rest day, but that doesn't mean I'm going to rest.  

Thinking and pondering:

About my kids.  I love those two so much but I will admittedly say they can drive me crazy.  Yesterday was filled with stress since my oldest was acting obnoxious and wild and my little one was just plain grumpy.  It was a lot to deal with and I get so easily angered about it.  I can only handle so much and I don't know why my son gets so crazy at times.  He gets so wild at times and I can't calm him down.  It's embarrassing when he acts this way around family.  They look at me as if I can't handle being a mother.  My son is almost six and of course has lots of energy but I need to find different ways for him to burn off that energy.  In the last few days I haven't even let him touch his Halloween candy.  He doesn't need the added sugar.  

Parenting is hard work and I just worry that I will fail. 

On my bedside table:

Pursuit of Peace by Joyce Meyer

Bible

On my TV:

Super Why on PBS is just ending.  All morning it has been all kid shows and now that the little one has gone down for a nap I think I'll just keep the television off while I get stuff done.  After a busy and chaotic weekend I'd like some peace and quiet for awhile.  

Playing on the radio:

Disney Princess music.  Yes, you heard that right.  It's not on the radio but on the computer.  I've been downloading (don't worry - it's being done legally) some Disney Princess music so I can burn a CD for my daughter and our little friend who also loves the songs.  I'm sure they will both enjoy it since they both love Disney Princesses.  Oh and I will admit that I love it too! 

On the menu:

Chicken (as requested by my  little girl) and maybe a side of mashed potatoes and another veggie. 

On my to do list:

Housework

Clean fridge

Vote tomorrow (even the non-presidential elections are just as important)

Hair cut for little one

Buy needed craft supplies

Attend a wine tasting event on Friday with a friend

What I'm sewing, crocheting, knitting or creating:

Still working on updating both baby books.  Just need to add a few pictures to Matthew's and his will be complete.  

Also, when I can grab a few extra bucks I'd like to go to the craft store and make something for Brianna's room.  A wooden B with small wooden letters that will spell her name, paint the big B white and the small letters pink and then glue the smaller letters onto the side of the B.  I've seen it online and thought it's a cute idea.  She needs more stuff for her walls.  

My simple pleasure:

At night when the kids are in bed I love curling up on the couch with my husband.  We'll watch some television and snuggle together.  After a day of chaos with the kids (which I do mostly enjoy) that moment of peace and quiet is so needed.  Even though we're a family and have kids to care for it's still so important for a married couple to take time out as often as they can for each other and I make sure the two of us have that time every night.  

Lesson learned the past week:

To handle everything with a positive attitude.  This is a tough one for me.  I always catch myself complaining about things and have trouble seeing the good in any situation.  Complaining and negative thinking doesn't accomplish anything.  

Looking around the house:

Do I have to say it?  Toys!  Everywhere!  

From the camera:

 Trunk or Treat in the Park last Friday

On my prayer list:

-The government - local, state and federal.  I don't like to get into politics on here but this country is in a huge mess and can use so much prayer.  The state of our country leaves me to feel nothing but fear for the future of my children and all they could be faced with. 
-My children and make sure they continue to grow into healthy and happy individuals.  That I'm able to see that all their needs are met.

- My faith.  It's not as strong as it should be.

Bible verse/Devotional:

"Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see." -- Hebrews 11:1

30 Day Squat/Abs Challenge - November 2013

November is here!  I can't believe it.  The year is almost over.  How did that happen so quickly?  In a few weeks we'll be celebrating Thanksgiving which means lots and lots of good and not-so-healthy food.  

Since a new month is upon us it gives us a new opportunity to start fresh.  Over the summer I found a 30 Day Squat Challenge online and decided to give it a try.  I stuck with it for three consecutive months and then, for some reason, gave up.  I'm still very much interested in fitness and keeping up with it but a busy life happened and I wasn't as regular with exercising as I wanted to be.  Also, I had a goal to run in a 5K on Thanksgiving.  That's not going to happen either.  I haven't been consistent with running and haven't built the endurance and stamina it would take to run over three miles.  I know three miles doesn't seem like a big deal but it is to me.  I'm not a runner ... yet I want to do whatever I can to become one.  I had a goal set to run every morning in the summer but I barely made it happen.  Ugh!  I can kick myself for giving up.  My husband even took me to the store to buy a new pair of running shoes.  Well let's make this clear, I haven't given up and I won't.  It's time to get back into it!

I created another blog specifically to be a log for my exercise goals and achievements.  I wasn't updating that enough so I decided to shut it down and just write my progress on here.  So here we go.

 

I already completed Day 1 and also added a few other exercises.  My body aches right now but I know that's a good feeling, a feeling that will pay off in the long run.  I also use a barbell when doing the squats.  Adding weights is what adds the muscles (my husband keeps reminding me of that).  Start light and then keep adding.  The more weight the better the result. 

So if you're interested in joining me on this challenge I wish you lots of luck.   

How To Do A Basic Squat

 

Halloween

Halloween is tomorrow!  The kids are so excited for it.  It's one of my son's favorite holidays and he looks forward to it all year.  I know some people do not care to celebrate Halloween and that's okay.  You make the choices you feel are right for your family.  It was part of my childhood and I want it to be part of my kids' childhood as well -- along with Santa, the Easter Bunny and the Tooth Fairy.  It's just fun little things that bring them joy.

After a trip to Walmart a few weeks ago we left with a Thor costume for my son and a Minnie Mouse costume for my daughter.  They both picked them out and luckily have been able to wear them multiple times.  Trunk or Treat night at Matthew's school, a benefit for our neighbor and the local amusement park during their "Happy Hauntings."  We'll be trick-or-treating around the neighborhood tomorrow and will attend a Trunk Or Treat In the Park event on Friday.  I'm glad they are making the most out of these costumes but ... sooooo much candy!  Oh my!  What are we going to do with all this candy?  They already have so much and will only be getting more tomorrow.  The worst part is every time I pass the buckets I'm tempted to take one ... and sometimes I do.  Shhh, don't tell them!

 

I've heard several parents make remarks about Halloween and why they choose not to expose their children to this holiday.  It certainly doesn't have to be about ghosts, monsters and everything spooky.  I make it all about kid-appropriate costumes, candy and fun decorations.  You won't find anything spooky and scary in my house.  All fun!  I enjoy these events for my children's happiness. 

Happy Halloween y'all! 

Happy Homemaker Monday - 10/28/13

I'm a little unorganized today so you'll have to excuse me.  Matthew has an "in service" day so there is no school.  We met my parents at Chuck E Cheese for lunch and spent a few hours playing games and winning lots and lots of tickets.  The kids redeemed some of the tickets for small, pathetic prizes and will save the rest for another time.  Now we're home.  Little one is napping and Matthew is playing games on my Mp3 player.  Trying to stay quite for the time being.

So here we go, teaming up with Sandra at Diary of A Stay At Home Mom again for Happy Homemaker Monday.  I did great last week with my meal planning ahead of time but as of now I'm clueless as to what to make for dinner so I'll have to save that for later.  Sandra changed things around, so I'll do it exactly as she did. 

HAPPY HOMEMAKER MONDAY - 10/28/2013

As I look outside my window ...

The sun is shining making the air warm.  There's a breeze but it's hardly cold, not as cold as it had been the last few days.  We left the house this afternoon with winter coats but suddenly didn't need them anymore.  The cold air seemed to have hit us pretty fast but luckily we have a little break today.  Until the sun goes down, of course, then it will be freezing again.  

Right now I am ...

Writing up this blog as quickly as I can go.  Hanging out with my son who sits on the couch playing video games.  If it's what it takes to keep him quite while little sister is napping then so be it.  We're also holding up a conversation too.  I love this boy!  He's getting over a cold but still has a terrible cough, especially once he's running around.  I'd love for him to rest but he just wants to run around today. 

Thinking and pondering ...

Of all the things that need done around the house.  It's so messy ... and yet here I am blogging.  ha!  Also trying to come up with a meal plan for the week.  I think I'm just going to skip it all and enjoy having my boy home today and worry about everything tomorrow.  I may bring the kids to the park if the warm weather stays for awhile. 

On my bedside table ...

Still reading In Pursuit of Peace by Joyce Meyer.  Actually, I haven't had much time to sit down and read.  I've been on my feet doing this and that for the last week and nothing seems to be getting done.  

On my tv tonight ...

There isn't a set show we watch on Monday nights right now so I'm sure we'll be skipping around between the World Series (though I don't care for either team) and maybe some other shows.  

Playing on the radio ...

My hubby bought me a speaker for my Mp3 player so while I'm in the kitchen cooking or whenever the kids decide they want a dance party I turn on Pandora and it's usually kids music.  For me, I've been listening to a lot of Contemporary Christian music lately.  If not that, then anything we can dance to.  

On the menu for the week ...

Like I said, I didn't prepare this yet.  I will get back to it once I have it done.  Last week I was able to get it all done ahead of time and I made some awesome meals! 

Monday - spaghetti and meatballs 

On my to do list ...

So much housework.  It just doesn't stop

Laundry, and lots of it!

One more baseball practice and one more game for Matthew and then we're done until spring.

Attend friend's wedding this weekend.  Her and I went to high school together and I haven't seen her for years.  Can't wait.  

What I'm sewing, crocheting, knitting or creating ...

I usually keep this one out because I don't sew, crochet or knit (although I wish I did).  I love being crafty, especially with the kids, but lately we haven't been doing anything.  I cut out some pumpkin shapes with construction paper so the kids could draw on them but they weren't interested.  I really have to work on updating both baby books.  Matthew's needs a few finishing touches (since it stops at age 5 and he's almost 6) and I hardly put anything into Brianna's.  

I also have a coupon to make a free photobook on Shutterfly and have been wanting to create one.  Just need to find the time to sit at the computer and gather the photos I want.  

My simple pleasure ...

Lately, it's been chocolate.  The kids have gone trick-or-treating at Matthew's school and also at a local amusement park and will be going around the neighborhood on Halloween.  I've been randomly diving into their buckets for a piece of candy or they offer me one.  My weakness is Reese's Peanut Butter Cups.  Bad, I know.  

Lesson learned the past week ...

 I'm always learning something, even if it's just a reminder of something I've already known.  For instance, I've been struggling with not worrying about what certain people think of me.  I know it doesn't matter what they think.  It only matters what God thinks.  Still, I like certain people in my life to understand that I am doing my best and trying my hardest and doing a better job then what I get credit for.  If they don't spend all day with me then they do not know me and what I go through, therefore, I shouldn't worry what others think.  

Looking around my house ...

Yikes!  A mess of toys everywhere.  My son is on the couch playing video games.  I'm glad he's home today.  

From the camera ...

 

On my prayer list ...

Family and friends, as always

My husband and the physical pain he's been going through

Bible verse/Devotional ...

"Let all that you do be done in love" -- 1 Corinthians 16:14