Katie's Birthday Week

Last Monday, our baby girl turned 7 years old. Since my dad had to go to the doctor's office for some lab work, the kids and I spent the day with my mother. I didn't want to take away the fact that it was Katie's birthday, we stopped by the bakery and picked up some gourmet cupcakes and lunch for everyone and headed over to mom and dad's place. Mom and dad were so happy to share Katie's special day with her.

  

 

We went got home, we celebrated her day with her daddy and Doug's parents. It's tradition that if your birthday falls on a day that is not your party, you get to open up one gift. Well Katie was so excited to get to open up a gift when daddy got home. Katie and Colton wanted these blank characters from OfficeMax about a month ago. Well, I went ahead and purchased them, but made them wait until this week to open them. I just knew the kids had forgotten them. Nope! As soon as Katie found the gift wrapped box, she asked if it was her kitty.
 

They loved coloring and creating their kitty and bird.  The only bad thing, I experienced, was the ink wants to rub off after HOURS of drying.  Oh well. 

 Colton has been just as excited about this day as Katie.  He thinks it's his birthday too.  So, if you think it's your birthday too than you need to blow out your candle as well.

Yesterday was Katie's big birthday slumber party.  She has been looking forward to this day for several months.  Anticipation has built every day since school let out for Summer break.  I guess that's what happens when you have to wait until mid-Summer to be the same age as the rest of your friends.  LOL!  There are times when she can't stand the fact that she has to wait so long before her birthday comes around.  Poor baby!

The slumber party was another hit.  Katie's guests began arriving as early as 4PM.  We had a total of 6 little girls stay with us.  It was an experience because I've never had that many girls to stay the night all at once.  The first thing they all wanted to do was get on the trampoline.  Yes, they would rather have been out in the HOT weather, jumping on a trampoline then inside eating pizza and painting nails.  LOL!  We let them do their jumping for a few short minutes before getting them inside to eat a slice of cheesy pizza.  Leslie and June were so sweet to come and help me last night.  I tell you, there is no way I would have been able to do it without their help.  Thank you guys!  I love you!  After cake and ice cream, we separated into different stations.  Leslie was the nail creator.  June was the fab makeup artist.  I was the shoe fashion designer.  Afterwards, the girls did a fashion show, American Model, dance off with Katie's new Kidz Bop 22 CD.  Oh. my. gosh!  Those girls had us in stitches.  What was so amazing is that most of the girls knew every word in each song!  We couldn't believe it.

We were tickled about her cake.  Didn't it turn out so cute?  Katie absolutely loved it!  It's a pull apart vanilla cupcakes with buttercream icing.  

. . . and here is Katie's glass slipper for the diva of the hour.  All the girls wanted to take this slipper home with them. LOL! 

Her theme was "Glitzy Girls".  One of the games was place the cell phone in the glitzy girl's hand.  Each girl was blindfolded and had 2 chances to place the phone on the scene.  I had each girl to have a friend to give them directions as to where to place their cell phone.  I thought it worked out great.  I thought this way it would produce team work and self esteem.

I caught the girls dancing in Katie's bedroom

The gang is all here!

Our fashion show

The girls LOVED Leslie being there.  They all got together and gave her a makeover.  They insisted that she dance and perform with them.  Too funny! 

 

June the make-up artist

Leslie the nail creator

We still have another party this weekend with the family.  Doug wants to smoke a pork butt and grill chicken breasts.  YUM!  We are expecting several of the family members coming, so we will have a nice crowd.  Be watching for more photos and stories.  

HAPPY 7TH BIRTHDAY SWEETHEART!  

WE LOVE YOU AND ARE SO PROUD OF YOU, 

Daddy, Mommy and Brother

Prayer Request
Thursday, my dad had his appendix and a small portion of his large intestines taken out.  When he had his regular scheduled colonoscopy, the doctor discovered a small polyp at the opening into his appendix.  It's benign, but for precaution the doctor felt it best that he go ahead and have them removed.  There is a good chance that if the polyp comes back that it could be cancerous.  So!  A little concerned about his age, I've given it over to the Lord.  The surgery went well and he was home in mid-afternoon yesterday.  Last night and today, he had difficulties going to the bathroom.  Because of the lack of not being able to go and the great pain that goes with it, Maryann took dad to the ER.  They put in temporary catheter and almost immediately it relieved the pain and pressure.  He is home with the catheter and he will have to see his doctor the first of next week.  I've found out this is nothing uncommon because of the anesthetic.  I ask you that you please lift him in your prayers, in hopes that God will heal his body.  Thank you!

 

Katie's 7 Year Old Photos

This morning, Katie and I got up and took some 7 year old photos of her. Yeah, I know she's not exactly 7 years old yet. I felt that today would be the last time we would see the 80s for awhile. We were fortunate to just miss the rain early this morning. We could not have planned this day any better. 

I've had my eyes set on this beautiful town garden for sometime. I could never work it out for us to get over there. When I had the idea to use this spot as Katie's 7 year old photo session, I drove by the other day to make sure the Summer flowers were still in bloom. I was relieved that the flowers had not been affected from the drought. PERFECT!

 

I absolutely hate that most of her photos, she's got the sun grins.  I promise, the sun wasn't in her face. It was an overcast sky, making it pretty bright.  It seemed like as soon as I told her that she had sun grins, she would straight up or began making a different face.  The silly face made her pictures look worse.  I just couldn't get her to relax.  I tried playing games and just telling her to relax, but she just seemed up tight.  I don't know what was going on.  She finally said that she couldn't stop making the faces and when she would relax, I'd have to straight up her back.  I stopped telling her because I was afraid that she would get upset.  

 

Katie insisted on having her picture taken with her favorite kitty.

 

Click HERE to see more photos of Katie. 

I planned to have an hour photo session with Katie, but she was such a trooper that she kept finding new places to have her picture taken.  She actually wore me out.  Our hour session went to an hour and a half.  By the time we got back to our vehicle, I was sweating like a pig.  Disgusting!  As I'm wiping the water from my forehead and around my neck, I looked in the mirror and I looked like a raccoon (embarrassing).  I quickly wiped if from around my eyes.  Shoo!  Note to self:  Next time, use waterproof mascara.  

I may have been ready to go home and get inside the air conditioning; however, Katie had another idea.    She said (in her begging voice) "Mom, isn't this a Katie and mommy day?"  I made the mistake of telling her, yes it was.  Right then, she gets me.  "Mom, since it's Katie and mommy day.  Can we go shopping?"  What? I couldn't believe my ears, she wanted to go shopping in this heat.  I asked her if she was sure about it.  She confirmed that she was positive.  Where should we go?  I asked her.  "I want to go to stores that we haven't gone in a real long time."  Simple enough.  She loves "A Touch of German" and as much as she LOVES jewelry, I took her to Nikki's ETC.  They have wall to wall costume jewelry, handbags and other girlie girl things. She didn't want to leave this store.  The German store is pretty nice.  I thought I was going to have to purchase a $20 Russian wooden doll (you know, the wooden dolls that nest 5 different sizes) just to get her out of the store.  We had to check out every Coo Coo Clock and Nutcracker.  LOL!  

Lunchtime, we decided on Dairy Queen.  I LOVE their Iron-grilled Turkey sandwich with a garden salad.  YUM!  We didn't even sit down good, when Katie took a bite of her grill cheese sandwich.  She gave me this look.  A look that I've seen before.  The toasted bread had popped a root on her baby tooth.  No fear.  She hasn't lost the tooth yet.  It's her top front tooth, which would be #3 for her to loose.  It's been loose now for about a week and she won't let us pull it out.  I warned her that it was going to make her mouth swore, if she didn't pull it.  She said that she's too scared.  I guess she'll learn. At the restaurant, she would not eat her sandwich because she said that it hurt when she bit down.  She kept telling me to pull it (right there in the restaurant). When I refused for the third time, she started to cry on me.  Here we go, packing up our food and headed for the car.  I told her that as soon as we got home, I would pull it.  Apparently, her tooth felt better by the time we got home because she began eating her sandwich again.  When I brought it to her attention, she said that she wanted to wait.  I'm still waiting for her to come to me, in order to yank the tooth out.  

It seems like every 5 minutes, she tells me how excited she is that Monday is almost here.  If you don't know, Monday is her actual birthday.  I plan to make her day special.  It's so amazing how time has flown by these past 7 years.  God has blessed me with such a WONDERFUL family.  Who would have thought I would have so much at the age of 3? (something ;))  For the past several months, I've had a  difficult time fathoming the idea that my baby girl will be a second grader.  Wha? In my mind, she is still this sweet little 4 year old baby girl that will melt my heart with every smile, every kiss on the cheek and telling me with her high pitch voice "I love you mommy so much", "You are the best mommy in the world."  Aw!  It just kills me.  Nuff about that (as I grab yet another tissue).   

 

She finally decided to choose "Glitzy Girl" birthday theme, which I think is going to be a fun party theme for her yet.  She's having a slumber party with a few of her closest girlfriends during the week.  What's on the planning list?  Well, we will have a nail salon station; a craft station; and game station going on.  The girls will be making their own frilly ribbon flip flops.  The games will include a purse piñata and pin the cell phone to the Glitzy Girl.  The girls will get to eat cheese pizza, cupcakes and ice cream and other junk food.  I figure they will stay up as late as they possibly can, Doug and Colton may go spend the night with my in-laws.  LOL!  Katie is so excited about her party.  She asks me everyday now as to how many girls are coming and making sure that they are coming.  LOL!  She is so funny.  We'll have a family party the following Saturday.  I would say that Katie will have the longest celebrated birthday this year.  LOL!

 

Gluten Free Recipes

I'm still adjusting the way I cook according to our new lifestyle.   My new goal is to limit the amount of breads and pasta I eat.  Grains and Fiber is very good for you, but if you are like me and LOVE bread - it can be a BAD thing.  I've been doing my homework and found out people that are living a gluten free life, substitute breads and pasta for squash, zucchini and mushrooms.  Needless to say, I've been in the Kitchen for the past few days.  Doug's been a great guinea pig.  Honestly, I think he likes being a guinea pig.  LOL!  I've made Portabella mushroom and zucchini pizzas.

Portabella Pizza
I love mushrooms, so this dish was a delight for me.  Take a mushroom.  Remove the stem.  Trim a little on the back, so it won't roll around on the cookie sheet.  Spoon a little Mario Batali Tomato Basil Pasta sauce inside the mushroom. Place turkey pepperoni and sprinkle with shredded Mozzarella cheese.  Broil for approximately 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and nicely browned.  Let it cool before serving.

Zucchini Pizza
I've come to a conclusion that zucchini is good in just about anything.  Take a zucchini, cut off the ends and cut it down lengthwise.  Trim a little on the back, so it won't roll around on the cookie sheet.  Scrape out the seeds with a spoon.  Spoon a little Mario Batali Tomato Basil Pasta sauce.  Place turkey pepperoni and sprinkle with shredded Mozzarella cheese.  Broil for approximately 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and nicely browned.  Let it cool before serving.

Tonight, I made Turkey Lasagna and it was so delicious!  This recipe definitely makes the cut.  I wanted the dish to be very low carb, gluten free and low calorie.  You can absolutely adjust the ingredients to fit your own tastebuds.  I love ricotta cheese in lasagna, so I'm sure it would taste wonderful in this dish.  I didn't have a recipe to go by.  I basically used what I had in my fridge.  

Turkey Lasagna 

 Ingredients: 
1 lb. Ground Turkey
24 oz. jar Mario Batali Tomato Basil Pasta Sauce
2 large yellow squash
Grated Parmesan Cheese
2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese

Directions: 
Spray 9x13" casserole dish with olive oil Pam cooking spray. Set aside.

Cook and drain turkey in a skillet. Add pasta sauce to turkey in skillet. Stir and heat until well mixed. 

Thinly slice squash. Place layer of squash slices in the bottom of the dish. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top of squash. Spoon a thin layer of meat sauce and spread out. Place a layer of Mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers of squash, Parmesan, meat sauce and more Mozzarella cheese.

Preheat oven 350 degrees F. Bake for 30 minutes. Cool for 1 minute before serving.

Serves 6

Note: I like to add a little more than just 2 cups of Mozzarella cheese. I love cheese! This dish can be made ahead of time and baked at a later time.

Very simple to prepare, gluten free and delicious!

If you try any of these recipes that I've given you tonight, I would love to hear what you did to make it your own.

Enjoy!

 

HOT HOT HOT!

It's the only word that can describe the past few weeks . . . HOT! We've been hit with record temperatures in the triple digits for the past couple of weeks, which is very unusual this time of year. Normally, we don't reach the triple digits until late July and August. It got here early and I hope this means that it will leave early (I doubt it). Our county has gone two months without any rain and our mayor has asked the residents to please conserve water and electricity.

I remember the drought of 2007. It was awful, but we did what we had to do. We washed our clothes twice a week instead of everyday or every other day. We took showers every other day instead of every day or in some cases twice a day. We stopped watering our lawns and plants. I bought lots of paper products such as plates, cups and utensils to cut down on washing dishes every day. We kept Wet Wipes and Germ-X around the house because I insist on washing my hands at all times. If we went over the amount of water used from a year ago, we were fined. Thank the Lord because of the previsions we took, we never had to pay the fine. As of today, we need 5 inches of rain to fill up our reservoir and I'm afraid, if we don't see any rain soon, we will be right where we were in the Summer of 2007. The only difference between now and then is we didn't have the excessive heat that we are experiencing this year.

Most of the state has been under an excessive heat watch and warning since Saturday. I've noticed on the news that the hot temperatures have pretty much dominated the whole United States from the West to the East. I was just watching the news of the devastation from storms that ripped up the Northeastern states. They really need our prayers with temps in the 90s, most will be without power until as early as Friday. It would be horrible to have to go through that situation.

Our Weekend
We've had an eventful weekend because my mom called and told me that they were moving to a new house.  Because Doug may have to work next weekend, we and a few other family members were able to get them moved Saturday.  They have a few other things to move, but we will get it all moved in time.

I love their little house, very spacious with vaulted ceilings.  It is so pretty, closer to their doctors and THE PARK!  I think they will be happy.  Mom told me that she never thought she would have track lighting and a dishwasher and now she does.  Dad loves the fact, he can put his TV on the wall.  LOL!  He said it would be great to not have to adjust his glasses to watch television, while laying back in his recliner.  LOL!  They have walk in closets, spacious laundry room, large bathroom and walk in pantry room.  They will really enjoy the breakfast nook, which is surrounded by windows.  I can just see them drinking their coffee, while watching the birds and squirrels out in the back yard.  The neighbors seem real nice and warming.  They have a nice corner lot, which would GREAT for an Autumn yard sale.  Whoo Hoo!  Dad was telling me all the things that they need to sell or get rid of it.  I know I've got a few things to put in it.



 

Katie's Swimming Lessons 2012

As you can tell from the video above, Katie had an awesome swimming lesson this year. There is no stopping her. She's my little mermaid. While I video taped Katie during her lessons, Colton got to swim around in the baby pool area. He loved it! However, I had a hard time keeping him in the shallow end. He kept creeping over a little deeper and a little deeper. You can hear me on the video, telling him to come back.

As a reward that day, we went to the outside water park area. The kids had a blast! Again, I had a hard time keeping Colton in the baby pool area, but he didn't disobey me. He would act like he was sneaking over to the big kid area, but I would have to call him back over. LOL! We met up with a couple other parents and their children, friends of Katie. I loved watching Katie with her girlfriends in the water and going down the water slides. They had such a good time that we planned to meet up again that following Friday. I texted my other girlfriend, Becca, about meeting us as well. Her children are basically the same age as mine and she thought it would be a great idea.

 

On Friday, Katie had another wonderful time because Jacey, Emma Grace, Amberly and Abby all came to the water park that day. We stayed there so long that we ended up with lobster skin. I kept sunscreen on us. Obviously, I missed a few spots or it must have washed off. I was so proud of Katie when she jumped off the lower diving board and swam to the ladder, by herself. She thought it was so cool and did it several times after that. Later, I asked her is she was brave enough to jump off the high dive. "Sure!" she confirmed. I couldn't believe it. SHE DID IT! She loved it! I guess she jump off the high dive 5 or 6 times. Just like a little mermaid, she was all over that swimming pool. We stayed by the pool from 9:30 - 1:45. You talk about TIRED. I could tell that Katie was tired because she was being pretty emotional or touchy, but overall she did have a great time.

Katie and Abby already have a slumber party planned for this weekend, but I still have to talk to daddy about it. Katie's behavior and attitude has been better towards us and her little brother. I praised her about it quite a bit last week and this week. I'm hoping that she understands and she will continue to try her best. She asks me just about every day if she has been good enough to stay the night with Abby. Becca and I are hoping to get together with the kids soon.

Katie is so glad that it's time to talk about her birthday party.  We're still tossing things around, but overall Katie wants another slumber party with her girlfriends.  They had such a blast the last time that they want to do it again this year.  She wants a family and friend party this year.  She wants her friends to swim in her little pool and bring out the slip-n-slide.  She wants to serve up cheesy pizza for supper along with cake and ice cream later.  Looking through Party City's girl birthday themes, she feel in love with "Glitzy Girl Birthday Party."  She wants a spa like birthday party.  All the girlies have their toes and fingers painted, fix up their hair and maybe do a fun girlie craft.  I thought about getting the girls some flip flops from Hobby Lobby and have them make frilly flip flops with ribbon and material.  I remembered my girlfriend had a flip flop party for her daughter.  She said Katie (daughter) and her girlfriends had fun making their frilly flip flops.  I think it would be fun.

2012 VBS 

 

2012 VBS

 

Summer Fun

I think this is the first week that I actually got to rest a little. The first week of June, we kicked off our VBS at church. Katie had a blast! At first, she was a little scared that none of her friends would not be able to make it because most families like to start their vacation the week after school is out of session. The night before, she was so upset and begging not to go. The following morning, it didn't take long before she had a big smile on her face once again. Her friends' vacation plans fell through and the girls were able to go to VBS. The girls were so happy to be in the same class together.

   

 The very last day of VBS was water fun day. The church brought in water inflatables and had other water games all over the campus. We just hated it that "E" got hurt during the first water game.  

The object of this game was each team had to fill up their team bucket. Each member filled up the holy bucket with water and try to quickly pour it into the team bucket without losing too much water. Katie wasn't too big into the games. She just wanted to get on the inflatables. That day was so hot, but Katie kept going from game to game to game before finally reaching the inflatables. Trust me. I kept asking her if she wanted to leave and grab some ice cream or play in the pool at home. I just didn't want her to get too hot, but she seemed fine and I could tell that she was focused on the prize.

 

She finally made it!

 

There she goes!

   

Our Preschool Minister, Ms. Lisa, had all the children put ingredients on her as if they were baking a cake. The babies loved it! I had to take a picture of her. She is so awesome with the little ones.

Please come back, so you can read and see pictures from swimming lessons.  I hope you have a great week! 

 

Croque Monsieur Recipe

Oh. my. gosh! 

Okay, do you remember this post?  Well, I made the Croque Monsieur.  If you want your husband or other guests to say "oh, this is really good" more than twice in one seating, make this meal.  It is DELISH!

Of course the original recipe is high in calories, but what finger licking dish isn't?  I tried cutting as many calories without taking away the flavor.  I think my hubby confirmed that I got it just right.  LOL!  I will post my recipe (what I did) and then post the original recipe.  Don't let the name or origin frighten you from making this dish.  It is fantastic and simple.

Mirya's Croque Monsieur Recipe 
Bechamel Sauce
1 1/2 cup 1% milk
2 Tbsp All-Purpose Flour
2 Tbsp Smart Balance Butter
1 pinch of each sea salt, ground pepper and ground nutmeg
1/4 Grated Light Parmesan Cheese
1/4 Shredded Gruyere Cheese

In a small sauce pan, heat the butter on medium-low heat until just bubbly.  Add the flour and stir until smooth.  Slowly, add milk.  Stir constantly with whisk until milk gets thick.  (Remember milk will burn, so be careful).  You may have to add a couple pinches of flour to get the milk to thicken up.  Remove from heat.  Stir in salt, pepper and nutmeg. Add parmesan and Gruyere cheeses and stir until well melted.  Set aside.

Ham and Cheese Sandwich (assemble and cook)
4 Thinly Sliced Italian Bread
4 Tomato slices
1/2 cup Gruyere Cheese
8 Thinly Sliced Virginia Ham Deli Meat
Dijon Mustard

Spread a little butter on one side of the bread.  With butter side down, place all 4 slices in your cast iron grill skillet on the stove top and cook until it is lightly brown.  Remove from heat and assemble your sandwich.

Spread a little mustard on each slice of bread.  4 slices of ham per sandwich, 2 slices of tomatoes and sprinkle a little cheese.  Place the second slice of bread on top (grilled side up).  Carefully place the sandwich back in the cast iron grill skillet.  Spoon a little Bechamel Sauce onto of the sandwich and sprinkle with Gruyere cheese.

When both sandwiches are ready in the skillet, place in the oven at 400 degrees for 5-10 minutes or until the cheese is nice and melted.

You will have Bechamel sauce left over.  I just put it in a plastic container and plan on using it the next time.

Makes 2 sandwiches

Great to serve with a side salad.



Croque Monsieur Ham and Cheese Sandwich Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 Tbsp butter
• 2 Tbsp flour
• 1 1/2 cups milk
• A pinch each of salt, freshly ground pepper, nutmeg, or more to taste
• 6 ounces Gruyère cheese, grated (about 1 1/2 cups grated)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (packed)
• 8 slices of French or Italian loaf bread
• 12 ounces ham, sliced
• Dijon mustard

METHOD

1 Preheat oven to 400°F.

2 Make the béchamel sauce. Melt butter in a small saucepan on medium/low heat until it just starts to bubble. Add the flour and cook, stirring until smooth, about 2 minutes. Slowly add the milk, whisking continuously, cooking until thick. Remove from heat. Add the salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Stir in the Parmesan and 1/4 cup of the grated Gruyère. Set aside.

3 Lay out the bread slices on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven, a few minutes each side, until lightly toasted. For extra flavor you can spread some butter on the bread slices before you toast them if you want.

(Alternatively, you can assemble the sandwiches as follows in step four and grill them on a skillet, finishing them in the broiler with the bechamel sauce.)

4 Lightly brush half of the toasted slices with mustard. Add the ham slices and about 1 cup of the remaining Gruyère cheese. Top with the other toasted bread slices.

5 Spoon on the béchamel sauce to the tops of the sandwiches. Sprinkle with the remaining Gruyère cheese. Place on a broiling pan. Bake in the oven for 5 minutes, then turn on the broiler and broil for an additional 3 to 5 minutes, until the cheese topping is bubbly and lightly browned.

If you top this sandwich with a fried egg it becomes a Croque Madame.

Makes 4 sandwiches.

This recipe came from Simply Recipes.  


Enjoy! 

 

Reading, Crafting and Cooking . . . PERFECT!

To touch a little bit on my last post, Allison asked me for the name of the Fairy chapter books, Katiebug is in love with. It's the "Rainbow Magic" Fairies. Every series tells a story about a particular fairy. She just finished "India" last week. We also have "Cara Camp Fairy" and "Ally the Dolphin Fairy." They have a cute website. If you would like to visit the "Rainbow Magic Fairies," CLICK HERE.  They are cute stories and there's always an adventure.  I hope this helps Allison.

Yesterday while par-oozing at Walmart, I came across "Ivy and Bean" series.  It sounded like a cute chapter book that Katie could get involved.  She's been wanting me to purchase "The Diaries of a Wimpy Kid" books, but I just don't feel that she's ready yet.  It's a big step from a 100 page book to 150+ page book.  I don't want her brain fried before Summer is over.

Because Vacation Bible School was this week, we've put our studies on the back burner until next week.  I have planned for her to read one of my favorite books by Judy Blume, "Freckle Juice" on Monday.  It's such an easy read that she should finish it in a couple of days.  I love Judy Blume books.  I definitely want to add the "Fudge" series to our Library, when I feel Katie is ready to read them.  Such funny stories!

Happy Reading!

My aunt Sherry and uncle Roger are in town, so we're spending a lot of our time with them this week.  It's always great to see them.  The kids just love their Lolly aka Sherry.  I'm trying to get in the mood for Fourth of July by making these cute Sparklers for the kids.  It was fun and very simple to make.  I first noticed this craft on Pinterest, which by the way I LOVE.  The only changes I made to this craft was the following:  Instead of painting the dowel pins and then add in the glitter, I just used silver glitter spray paint and knocked out two birds with one stone.  PERFECT!  I've only made 4, but I do plan on making more.  So wait for future picture postings.

 DIY Sparklers

Source: eighteen25.blogspot.com via Mirya on Pinterest

Father's Day is right around the corner.  I found one of the cutest ideas for my children to make for their daddy.  You'll have to wait on seeing pictures because we don't want our daddy to see his gift prematurely.  Right?  Instead, I'll direct you to the link.  This way you can make your own gift for your daddy.  The only thing I changed was the following:  The instructions suggest that you glue ribbon for the binding.  I didn't want to use ribbon, instead I bound the book by stapling it together and placing EZ Start Printed Packing Duck Tape.  I just thought this way would be less frustrating.  

All About the Best Dad

Source: eighteen25.blogspot.com via Mirya on Pinterest

I've been a little bored with the same old, same old meals at home and Subway Tuna sandwiches might be getting a little old.  I'm going to try and make Croque Monsieur Ham and Cheese tonight.  I finished picking up all of my ingredients this morning in order to make them.  I'm excited!  I read a couple posts on how much they love this meal.  I got the idea from watching the movie "It's Complicated" for the hundredth time.  I have a passion for films that include cooking or food in general.  The Croque Monsieur that Meryl Streep pulled out of oven during a dinner date with Steve Martin, well it looked delicious.  I did what every Southern girl with an appetite did, I looked up the recipe online and purchased a Lodge Logic Grill Skillet.  LOL!  I will tweak the recipe a little just so the sauce won't be too fattening.  Stay tuned for my review, recipe and pictures.

Hulk of a Storm

We experienced a rough thunderstorm early this morning, the nice rolling thunder type storm. It didn't take long before Colton b-lined it to our bed. He told me that the thunder scared him. I thought it was humorous when he compared the storm to Hulk. LOL! Yes, he actually called the storm a "Hulk Storm." The storm got so rough at times that it knocked out the power not far from our house. Street lights were out, causing a major traffic jam. Today is the first day of Vacation Bible School at church. I don't know why it is, but Katie always freaks out the night before a Summer camp or activity. She's afraid that she won't know anyone in her class. Ugh! I told my social butterfly not to worry because if there is not anyone there, I'm sure she will quickly make new friends. As soon as we got there, she immediately saw her best friend and left my side. When I picked her up, she was all smiles telling me how much fun she had. The church was packed full of people, so I'm excited to find out how many were in attendance. Please keep my sister, Sandy, in your prayers. She had surgery the other day on her hand. I spoke to her this morning and she sounds good. Last night was a rough moment, but it will be a great reward to have the use of her hand back to new. I have a feeling today is going to be a slow, lazy, rain day. Have a great Monday and stay dry.

Summer Vacation Starts Out Good

Our first week of Summer vacation is starting out really well, I think. I was telling Doug tonight that it's amazing how much work I'm getting done, since Katie's home. He seems to think it's because I'm not spending an hour a day, dropping off and picking up Katie every day. I have to add that Colton isn't hanging on my leg every where I go either. I think it's because sissy is here to entertain him. Last weekend, daddy and Katie brought home a plastic swimming pool with a slide. The kids love it and we have to go swimming every day for at least 30 minutes. I guess it saves me $20 from the Aquatic Center everyday. LOL! Poor Colton is so fair complected, you have to really keep the 50+ SPF sunscreen lathered on him. He is so funny. He is at the stage that he doesn't want a shirt or shorts on at any time. I have to chase him down just to get his shorts on to go to town. LOL!

Katie and I are reviewing some school lessons that she learned this past year and a little extra every day. She loves these fairy chapter books. She started on "India" Monday and should be finished by tomorrow. We went to the Library the other day and picked up a few books. Colton insisted on checking out a book called "Frankenstein wants a sandwich." I think he has mistaken Frankenstein for Hulk, but he really loves this book. It has some poetry in it, but mostly silly stuff. Definitely a boys book. I've already read it to him three times. I picked up a great summary book of all 44 Presidents of The United States. I love the fact that it has tons of illustrations along with the facts. I think it helps to learn if you have a visual because History can be a bit boring for young kids. I also picked up the same type of book for studying Rocks and Minerals. I've had packs of Moon Sand for one of our Science experiments. The kids had fun playing with the sand in water. It's weird how the sand stays dry in water until you add oil, in order for it to break it down. It was a teaching tool about molecules, polar and non-polar bonding. We also experimented how oil and water do not mix, again polar and non-polar bonding. It kept Katie and Colton's interest for a little while. As far as math, I've found some great websites to keep it interesting.  Coolmath is an excellent site for not only math games, but worksheets as well for geography, reading, spelling and science.  I recommend this site to anyone.  Katie loves it!  She's played addition/subtraction and fraction games.   I went over multiplications by 2s yesterday and she caught on very quickly.  I knew Ms. G was getting them ready because I know they can count by 2s, it's just showing the relation.  Tomorrow is her math quiz, which will reflect everything we went over this past week.  I think she'll do pretty good. She insisted on taking her spelling test today instead of tomorrow.  She did great - 105!   Ms. G gave each parent a sheet of Summer reading references that her class has subscribed to all year.  She read a couple online books through her school Library subscription about animals.

I don't know if it's her growing up a little or if it's school.  All school year, she has been relentlessly testing my patiences.  She still aggravates her brother, which drives me crazy.  Overall, this past week has been enjoyable.  I'm not at the point of pulling my hair out yet.  It really makes a difference and I hope she sees it.  I know,  I praised her last night for helping and not so testy.  I let her pick out a reward out of the goody bag.  My goody bag contains little paper strips with awards written on them.  For instance, she picked out that she gets 30 minutes on the Xbox as a reward.  She loves drawing rewards out of the goody bag.

While Colton took a nap, Katie and I had a little time together playing Scrabble and Rack-o.  Rack-o is her new favorite game.  She caught on very well.  I broke down last weekend and purchased a Scrabble Deluxe Edition.  I remember as a child, the women in my family and I would play hours of board games like Scrabble, Yahtzee,  Rack-o, Aggravation, Life, Monopoly, etc.  Playing games whether it's cards, board or arcade games is in our blood.  Katie is just another generation of game players.  It was nice spending good quality time with her today.    

I'm kind of stuck on our one day field trips.  I can't think of any new places that we haven't been.  We may have to just revisit field trips past.  I would love to take the kids to the Botanical Gardens for picture time, but it's been so hot lately.  Except for today, it's felt like the middle of July.  If you have any suggestions, please let me know.  Thanks!


 

Grace of God

I wanted to share with you a recording from Beth Moore's Part 1 of 11 series DVD "Here and Now; There and Then." She reads out of the Book of Revelation about Jesus' love for us and the revelation of God's grace.

I absolutely love Beth and she is so inspiring every time I read and listen to her messages. Whether you need uplifted or revived, she is so full of energy, love and have some funny real life stories to share. This website gives you an option of purchasing MP3 downloads or purchasing the actual DVDs.

I hope you can take a few minutes just to listen to this lesson today. It will bless your life and reassure God's love for you.  Just click on the post title "Grace of God" and it will take you straight to the lesson.

Enjoy and have a blessed Memorial Day tomorrow.

FIELD DAY 2012

Katie Story & School Update

I have to tell you this story that happened to us last night. First of all Katie has been a little impatient with me, finding a weekend that her girlfriends could come over and spend the night. If you've been keeping up with my blog, you can see that I've been just a little busy this month. We've had events and parties every weekend, all weekend and it seems to be carrying throughout the rest of the month. I told Katie that we will just try to get her and girlfriends over sometime next month. Well, apparently she can't wait until next month because I received a text from her best friend's dad. He wanted to know if we could talk about the scheduled play date. What? What play date? Doug and I asked Katie about this play date. I figured that she had been talking with her friends about a spend the night at our house again. She admitted to planning a spend the night this weekend with her friend A. Ugh! I asked her when she was going to decided to tell us about it and when was she going to fit A in, between the Saturday birthday dinner or the Sunday birthday party with her friend, N? We still don't have anything for N's birthday party. We agreed that Friday after school, we would go shopping. I have another birthday and graduation gift to buy as well, so I thought it would be a good opportunity for us to get that done as well. That knocks out our girls, getting together on Friday night. I love it when she puts me in these predicaments. A's dad went on to text that he and his wife were impressed with Katie's arrangement. He said that she wrote A a letter with the invitation and added activities such as going to a museum Saturday. Ugh! They thought I helped Katie draft out this note. I can't wait to read it. Shocked there was a written invitation involved, Doug went in Katie's room and asked her about it. She just pulled her sheet up over her head. My daughter! Us parents had a good laugh and A's dad was worried that I was mad at her. Of course, I want Katie to think I was very disappointed in her. I expect her to get with her dad and I before planning these things. Just think if A's daddy didn't want to talk with me about it. I wasn't mad. I just hope she won't do this again. A's dad is trying to send a picture of the note to me.  If I ever get it, I'll be sure to post it for your amusement.  LOL!

On a more positive note, I received an email from Katie's teacher yesterday. Sometimes I cringe when I get notes from Ms. G, but this was a good note. She said Katie had her year end Math Assessment last week.  This assessment measures her Core Math Curriculum for the year.  She first took this assessment the beginning of the year (August).  From what I understand, the August test she scored 13 out of 100 questions.  This test reminds me of a placement test, where to begin.  Her test last week, she scored a big fat 100 out of 100 questions.  Whoo Hoo!  Ms. G went on about how proud she was of Katie.  Ms. G gets worried about how Katie handles pressure.  She's a lot like her mama.  If I can't figure out something, it drives me CRAZY.  Ms. G said all year, if Katie couldn't figure out a math problem she would get so upset that she would start crying.  Yep, like me.  I also blame Doug and I for expecting her to do her best in whatever she does.  I'm hard on her because I don't want her to ever be behind the older kids in her class.  I have to keep in mind, she will always be the youngest in her class.  I know she can do it.

Last Sunday, I passed around the Mother's Day book that Katie made for me at school.  Ms. G told me that I would love it.  She was right!  I will keep it with the rest of our keepsakes.  It was a booklet, all about mom.  Everyone that read it, got so tickled on the page that read:  "My mom always says pay attention."  She even drew a picture of her and I with "pay attention" in a bubble over my head.  LOL!  She's got me pegged on a lot of things like how I like to watch "American Idol", I like to go to museums, I'm happiest when I go to Dairy Queen (lol!), how I like to read chapter books, how much I love to watch movies, and my favorite thing to eat is salads.  LOL!  I love that she wrote "I love it when mom cooks me ravioli."  This book is priceless and I will treasure always.

Today at school in "Fun in the Sun."  All the students brought their beach towel, sunglasses, sun screen and their favorite books.  Katie was so excited, we got everything all organized and packed in her backpack last night.  I wish you could have seen the stack of books Katie was planning to take.  LOL!  Of course, they were all Barbie storybooks.  We compromised on three specific Barbie books.  I think Ms. G was wanting each child to bring just one book, but I couldn't get that through Katie's head. Ms. G plans to let the kids sit outside and read books.  Sounds like fun.    

Tomorrow is Western Days.  We finally went to The Children's Place the other day and bought Katie a cowgirl hat.  It is precious!  It's pink with a tiara on it.  I was a happy mama when the clerk rang it up and it was only $4.  Yay!  I saved so much money on the hat that grabbed a few other good deals for both of my chickadees.  I will be sure to take pictures, so be watching for them.


 

Celebrating Moms 2012

Mom and three of her five girls

Four Generations

Maryann, her daughters and mom

Maryann and her daughters

Susan and her growing family

Susan and her babies

Feelin' the Love!

Doug and his mommy

Whitney's First Mother's Day

 

God has blessed me so much.  It's hard work, but in the end I love being a mom.

Mothers and Grandmothers may hold the hands of their children, 

but they hold their hearts forever! 

 

Luau Day 2012

Last Friday was Luau Day at school. All the kids were encouraged to dress up in their flowery shirts, grass skirts, lias, etc. Katie absolutely LOVES to dress up.

This past week, I've allowed her to wear her flip flops to school. She is in heaven. She loves wearing her shorts, short sleeve shirts and flip flops. She is in her element this time of year. The only thing she doesn't care to wear is denim shorts, which she is slowly beginning to like.

 

 

They were dancing in this picture

Chase & Leslie Wedding 2012 Photos

I have all good pictures posted on my photography website. Please CLICK HERE to view them.

Thank you.

I hope everyone has a wonderful and blessed Mother's Day tomorrow.  God Bless You!

 

Wedding of the Year - Chase & Leslie 2012

Sunday, May 5th a beautiful couple exchanged their vows to God, family and friends. My niece, Leslie, and her finance finally tied the knot after such a long engagement.

The ceremony was simple and elegant. Their colors were pool, which is close to an aqua marine color. She had each of her bridesmaids, pick out their own style of dress to wear up on the alter. The alter was decorated so beautifully. In the center was a wooden arbor with white tulle, lights and white wisteria hanging from the top. Ferns in the background and a few around the arbor and front of the alter. Kellie used these beautiful candleholders, which were metal trees with branches. Chase and Leslie poured unity sand instead of the traditional unity candle. This unity sand will be sealed and sitting up on their mantel in their living room. Out in the vestibule, guests were greeted by the photo tree (minus the photos) on a table with candles and tulle. The registration table had a photo book for everyone to sign or write a special message for the happy couple. So unique and I loved the idea. The book contained photos of the couple's engagement pictures. They had a few small sample photos for the guests to take with them.

My morning didn't start out too good. I didn't book an appointment for Katie to have her hair fixed for the wedding because we had such a long way to travel. Mistake number one. The lady that does our hair, explained to me what to do with Katie's hair. I allowed three hours to work on her hair before we had to leave. At first, I had all kinds of pretty curls in her hair then, it was time to put her hair up. Ugh! It just wasn't working out for me. How simple it sounds to put her hair up in a ponytail and then pin her curls here and there all over her head. Right? Katie has very heavy, thick and naturally wavy hair. I could not get it to work for me. By the time it should have been fixed, my hands began to shake.  Her curls were falling out of her head and I wanted to cry. I spent an hour and half working with hair that didn't want to cooperate. Frantic, I called Susan then I thought I didn't need to bother her with this because she's got enough on her mind. I called Theresa, my hairdresser, and told her what mess I was in. There was no way Theresa or anyone at her shop would be able to fix Katie's hair and get to the church on time. What to do?!? I was in tears at this point. What was I thinking that I could do this? It's amazing how God can show you how prideful you can be thinking you could do something on your own, when you really do need help from someone that makes it their profession. Susan did calm me down some and convinced me that Reagan, Leslie's soon-to-be sister-in-law, which is also a hairdresser, will get Katie ready. I was so relieved by the time I got to church and saw all the girls there, ready for Katie. I broke down again. I just wanted Katie to look pretty for Leslie's wedding. I didn't want to ruin Leslie's big day. Reagan did such a great job on Katie's hair and she had it fixed within minutes. Relief! She wasn't taking money for the hairdos, but I slipped her some money because she absolutely saved my day. Katie was so pretty, especially with her special tiara that Leslie gave her for the wedding. She was a princess for the day.

Doug videoed the entire ceremony. Below are clips of the wedding:

Part 1: Seating of the Grandparents and Parents

The songs that were sung just about got to me. I choked back a few tears.  By the time Susan was seated, I could not help it.  I began to get watery eyed, then I saw Leslie.  Her face was red and tears rolling down her cheeks.  Then, I looked at Chase.  He was the same way.  I couldn't hold back anymore,  I kept crying and I tried to straighten up.  The minister was crying.  It was a long awaited day for so many, especially Chase and Leslie.  Everyone was shedding happy tears of joy for them.

Part 2: The Wedding Party and Exchanging of Vows

Part 3: Pouring of the Unity Sand and Introduction to Mr. and Mrs. Chase Mosley

The reception was so beautiful, but it was such an unseasonable warm day for an outside reception. The food and drinks were kept inside the building where it is air conditioned, everyone was to sit outside. I wish I could explain it well. This building is a barn shape with a loft. Inside the decor is rustic, wood floors and brick fireplace. Very cosy and warm. The kitchen is a nice industrial size. The family that owns the barn are making wooden walkways through the cleared woods beside the building. Every now and then on the trail, they made small patios for a small table and 2-4 chairs for people to sit. They also had beautiful handmade picnic tables lined up out on the lawn for people sit. Chase and Leslie had their first dance inside the barn, while everyone grabbed a plate and got in line for the food.

First Dance at the Reception

Their photographers took pictures of the wedding party, while everyone ate. When it was ready for Chase and Leslie to leave for their honeymoon, the couple went up the loft. They threw the bouquet and garter from the loft. My niece, Natalie, catch the bouquet. The first throw of the garter was a bust and Chase ended up dropping it on the ground. Nathan, Natalie's boyfriend, ran and got it. All the guys wanted a re-do. Nathan threw it back up to Chase. This time, he threw it like a football and my nephew, Ryan, caught it. Both Natalie and Ryan are my sister, Maryann's kids. She is really hoping that Natalie and Ryan will decide to have a double wedding with their mates. Ryan's girlfriend, Angie and I walked around the property after the reception and found a perfect place for their wedding. They have a huge pond with an island out in middle that would be a beautiful place for an outside wedding. Angie is such a sweetheart and we had a good time dreaming. HAHA!

Hope you enjoy the videos.  I did take a few photos during and after the wedding.  I didn't want to get in the photographers way, so I'm sure my pictures are not going to be a great as they.  I did watch their techniques and tried to take notes.  This group had LOTS of equipment, two photographers and two people taking videos.  They are very detailed that is for sure.  I hope I learned something that day from them.

Stay tuned for photos of the wedding, coming soon. . . .