Simple Christian Homemaking

All Around Town

2011-01-04T11:56:00.000-07:00

So we have been very busy bees lately,and with the internet down it was hard to keep you up to date. The last thing that was told was my face had flared up with acne (guessing I'm just a very late bloomer LOL.) However my mystery product that works Miracles is actually called Dr.miracles Acne Treatment system. I watched and took generous notes the whole time I used it and it cleared me right up. I do have combination to oily skin so I suggest if you have dry skin to use the system with another type of moisturizer.I absolutely love the system and will recommend it to anyone.

Now getting off of acne lets move right along to pets remember now is the time to start shifting them from their winter schedule back onto their summer schedule. I know I know you're thinking ,(they've barely been on the winter schedule.)Switching them for the warmer months early gets them prepared so it's not culture shock.Kind of like when you start getting your child prepared for school by putting them to bed early before summer break is over.It's the same concept.

Now lets talk about food NOT DIETING just food.A good tip is too eat foods with plenty of grains ,eat a lot of nuts, fruits and seeds.For the fact that it keeps your food processing (if you know what I mean.) In turn helping your metabolism and allowing you to maintain a healthy ,happy weight.I'm not saying only eat those things just snack on them before meals ,seeing as it will lower your appetite and help again to process what you do eat for you meals.

Thats all for today .
I wish everyone a Healthy and Happy NewYear!
Be Blessed

The Life! (an update from SCHII)

2010-11-30T10:18:00.000-07:00

So I have been very very busy lately as I let all of you know,(sorry Sis.) I haven't been on the blog for a while. It has been very rainy over here. I am planning a vacation to Disney World (soooo excited.) Also my face is clearing very nicely but I will still not disclose my secret product until my face is completely clear!(that way I know it really really works!)Everything has been Ok over here other than the weather and still its not bad, perfect weather to walk in as it's not too hot.There is something on my mind it is prayer request. Whenever someone ask me to pray for them I just stop what Im doing and pray so that I dont forget. For those of you who can't just stop what you're doing write it down and when you have time alone to pray then pray for all that you wrote down. If anyone has a prayer request please put it in the comment box at any time my sis and I will be more than happy to pray for you.GOD knows what you're going through but He wants to know that you are humble and believe enough to ask Him so please don't ever forget the power of fasting and prayer.Especially during the Holidays people seem to get caught up in the moment and forget what the season is all about ,remember that GOD is the reason for the season & All things work for the good to those who believe in Christ Jesus.
ENJOY!

THIS WEEK

2010-11-29T06:51:00.000-07:00

This week I won't really have a lot to say as I'm taking this week and spending more time with the Lord, in prayer and reading His Word. Sometimes it's good to take a little extra time and spend with Him. I will say that I have really been enjoying my bread machine. The bread turns out the best when I use the dough cycle and then place it in a bread pan to rise and bake in the oven. My hubby's favorite bread has been the raisin cinnamon bread. He even had a friend over watching the game yesterday and asked me to bake a loaf for them. That's why it's on the menu twice this week. I look forward to talking to you guys next week and letting you know how this week of devotion went.

2010-11-24T06:54:00.000-07:00

HAVE A BLESSED AND HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!!

Take time to give thanks unto the Lord for all that He has done, the most important being His death on the cross for your salvation.

It's Been 12 Years

2010-11-20T06:25:00.005-07:00

Beau and I celebrated our 12 year Wedding Anniversary yesterday and it was so awesome! Our friend made the beautiful cake above for us and not only was it so very pretty, it tasted SOOOOO GOOD! It was a yellow cake with a raspberry filling, two layers and a whipped cream type frosting. Now I know I shouldn't have eaten as big a slice as I did but it was my anniversary and that cake was just so yummy :-) We went and hung out with some friends from a marriage ministry and fellowshipped and discussed the book, The Four Seasons of Marriage by Gary Chapman. It was great! We're not done celebrating yet though. We have this couple that we love to spend time with and that we have so much in common, so for dinner tonight we're gonna meet up with them at Country Buffet. We spent our anniversary with them last year so I think it's gonna become a little tradition of ours. I am so amazed by how God has blessed our marriage! We've had tons of odds against us, especially since we dated as teenagers and married young but God still does miracles. Also, I'm sitting here remembering how I shared our anniversary with you guys last year and am so thankful for my Blogger buddies. By-the-way, I'm the one in the blue jeans in the video below :-) It's weird how i pictured our couple friends first I know. The next video is a couple of pics. of his anniversary gifts I gave him.

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Bread For Christmas?

2010-11-14T20:49:00.000-07:00

First, let me start out by saying that a friend of mine gave me her bread machine. She received it as a gift and is not really into making homemade bread. Well, I'm REALLY into making homemade bread and now I know just what to give out for Christmas gifts this year. Beau and I have pretty big families and lots of great friends and what would be nicer than for them to receive a loaf of fresh-baked bread for Christmas? That will be a couple of LONG nights for me to bake all that bread, but I enjoy giving and receiving freshly baked bread and think that it will make a great gift. I can't wait! By-the-way, I've been having lots of fun with my new bread machine. Every night I've made a different loaf of bread to go with dinner. I'm really looking forward to making breakfast breads too. I'm gonna start out by making a cinnamon raisin bread.

Updates!

2010-11-11T08:36:00.000-07:00

So it has been awhile since I truly gave you all an update.The most recent one is my face is looking great! Like I said earlier I am not going to acknowledge the product until after the complete 30 days of use .I can't believe the results being as it hasn't even been 2 weeks yet. Also Hubby and I are looking for a house ,He has found some beautiful options but we want it to be just right! We are planning many trips because we need to take a trip to my parents and help them with a few repairs,We are traveling for the holidays (we will have a house sitter of course.) Also our anniversary we always plan a nice vacation so that will probably be the biggest one.So that is why I have been working extra hard ,I know that if I overwork myself now that I will be able to enjoy it in the future! So off I go I need to exercise,clean and organized before heading off to work!

Enjoy!!

Trying New Things!!

2010-11-05T06:00:00.001-06:00

So I don't oppose to trying new things actually I jump at the chance to try anything new.However when it comes to home maintenance or skin care ,I tend o get very excited and think it's working when really it's not.So to stay away from frustration I haven't tried anything new in awhile.Well I have been struggeling with my skin care and really just got to the point where I figured there was no cure and it was just how it was going to be until my body worked itself out.Well I am trying a new skincare but I have taken it to the next level I took before picture's(you can see at the end of the post.)Also I am tracking in writing how my face reacts and how I felt that day. I want to make sure if it doesn't work I will know it was the product and if it does work well you know. So far so good ,it's new so I know I am still very excited but if it works everyone will know!! LOL Oh also I won't be taking after pictures until the first month is over.

Enjoy!

Taking On The Bathroom!

2010-11-04T08:53:00.000-06:00

I have been working very hard while also maintaining a clean house. Since I am not at home all day I can't spend as much time as I normally would cleaning up,but I still manage to have my house in order.Well hubby doesn't understand that I can't get down and do that detailed cleaning when, I'm soo tired that I can't even see LOL.He had mentioned the other day to bring in a maid to clean the bathroom YIKES that hurt a little. He assured me that I was doing a great job and that he just wanted to help me out,but I took it a little different.So before he calls the maid service I'm taking on the bathroom. I've got to keep my motivation up and make sure hubby can see that I don't need any maid to help me clean up my OWN house. So off I go wish me luck!

Our Halloween Alternative

2010-10-31T21:03:00.000-06:00

We don't celebrate Halloween but usually enjoy taping (and eating some) candy to gospel tracts. My kids will race to the door anxious to give the trick-or-treater their candy and tract. This year my oldest, Beau, didn't really feel like doing that and so I had to think of an inexpensive alternative. This is what I came up with; I went out and purchased a cheap hot air popcorn maker and popcorn kernels (still can't get over that the whole bag was only $1.48). Then our church gave us a bag of apples and caramel. So we had a great time watching the popcorn shoot out and then of course eating it and we had the best time making and eating caramel apples. This year we ignored the door and had this wonderfully special time to ourselves.

The Birthday Party!!

2010-10-30T06:15:00.000-06:00

Well I did tell you I would let you in on what we did for hubby's Birthday,so here it is...
First I do need to apologize I didn't take pictures due to the pure excitement of being away to celebrate.Hubby has a couple pics that I will need to download. So prepare your minds to travel with me on this small adventure.
1.)After a long and great drive we arrive at my parents house;A large beautiful white house with a wrap around porch, sitting in the middle of over 8 freshly cut acres.The air is crisp and dewy and the night is pulling at us to go to bed after a long drive. After my father gives us a mini tour of our castle abode for the weekend we descend upstairs for a wonderful nights rest.
2.)We awake to the smell of coffee brewing and bacon sizzeling ,yet there is still a question in our heads about waking up because the air is cool and we are nestled deep underneath a heated blanket and handmade quilt.
3.)The smells entice me and I head down stairs ,we feed our faces and prepare for a wonderful adventure my father laid out for us. It was great! We did too many things to mention all ,went to a garden and picked fresh fruits and tried many different and new ones.My daughter and I played on the playground that was placed right in the middle of the garden.After which we enjoyed slushys,a wagon ride and more...
4.) Only to arrive back at the house. I laid out all the presents on the table surrounding the homemade cake my father made. Lite the candles and hollered for hubby, who bounded down the stairs to see the sight.With tears building in his eyes, he blew out the candles. Here we all were to celebrate a day just for him.
5.) After which we ate burritos munched on cake and opened presents.Every morning started the same with coffee and bacon. Every evening ended the same with dinner,family time and tired laughter.
6.)On our final night we were taken to the theater to watch two great films of course the man went in one and woman in another LOL (the only way to keep me sane.)We arrived at home and ate and played board games till we couldn't move. The last morning to wake up in our castle abode was with the smell of food.My parents had loaded our car with goodies to eat.We said our goodbyes and headed home.(which was a another adventure in itself.)
I hope with this description I brought a few of you guys with me.
Enjoy!

Gettin Busy!!

2010-10-29T06:44:00.000-06:00

So After a couple months of working my tail off,I feel like I get a little break. I am very well rested without much on my plate today.I will not have to leave until early evening so I have all day to do whatever. I figured it was time to catch up on some reading. I try and make it a habit to read the bible before another book,but I really need to get deep.So as I peek at the books on my bookshelf One in particular kept catching my eye,"Waking the dead." I believe I began reading it once before but I am not sure so I'll start from the very beginning and read it like I just bought it. I believe GOD continued to lead me to that book so Off I will go book in left hand ,bible in right. I can't wait I will keep everyone updated on how the book is going. Also my Sis has listed several great books that I need to go out and grab so I will keep you updated on SCHI book list too!
Here's a nugget ,when all the things in your day are completed,there's always time for a great book.
Enjoy!

Bread on the Rise

2010-10-26T21:13:00.000-06:00

This is my latest blessing. I was telling my friend how I'd like to get a Kitchen Aid mixer for when I make my homemade bread and she gave me hers. She said that it was just down in her basement collecting dust. God is amazing!!! Not only does He provide all my needs, He also gives me desires. I foresee LOTS of bread and muffins. YUMMY!!!

HAPPY B-DAY!!!

2010-10-25T06:00:00.003-06:00

It's my Hubby's B-day!! I'm soooo excited partly because you all know that I have been working extra extra hard. Well I put a little bit away that hubby knew nothing about ..SOOOO As far as He know I have been using allll of my money for bills etc.. But I had the opportunity to buy him some really great gifts and also we get to go to my parents house and celebrate. He is excited to a certain extant but you know He's probably thinking it;s just a few days with my wifes parents how fun can that be.. (That was exaggerating.) But boy will he be surprised and my Dad (greatest chef in the world) has volunteered to make his cake YAY. I don't have to cook but I think I might still surprise him with his B-day pancakes in the morning. I am sooo excited and will take many pictures!!
Enjoy!

Cruisin to Lose!!

2010-10-24T06:00:00.001-06:00

Ok well I noticed that as I do a lot,sometimes when I get a break ...I BREAK! I mean literally my days usually go at 100 miles a minute but when I do get time to relax I realllllllyy relax. Yep like all day than by the end of the day I feel like I haven't done anything. So hubby is always telling me I deserve my breaks but some of the pounds like to come back on when you relax too much(if you know what I mean.) So I am back to old me ,the one who used to say ,"You can sleep when you're dead.) That was me until my other half allowed me to realize that I am allowed a break once in awhile. For now whenever I want to go lay down watch t.v or something I ask myself well what can be done first? Usually I get so caught up in stuff I forget about the break entirely. Keeping me up and active all day.Which is how it should be.Sleep at night up in the day,before this I had forgotten sleeping is really for nights.lol So it's been going good and this weekend I will have plenty of time to relax!
Enjoy!

Did You Know??

2010-10-23T06:00:00.001-06:00

SO for a while now I have been having this echoey sound in my phone. Well I figured my phone was tapped but really didn't give it much thought you know(why would someone want to tap my phone and who would want to tap it.) Never really thought much into it untillll.... One day someone HACKED into all of my online entities . Everything there is no way someone can hack into everything within the same week. So I began to think who did I make mad?Nobody Who would be able to guess my passwords? Nobody Have I been on the internet lately on sites I wasn't familiar? NO All these questions cruised through my head. Now I know that random people that have no personal relationships with you AT all can hack into your stuff ,but no random person would access all my stuff plus make a new email account in my name to try and hack more stuff. Thankfully the important stuff wasn't reached. So i did a little research to find out what I could do. Then I found out lthat someone who knows what they are doing online(I don't) Can hack into your computer or cellphone without even having to be there. OMG I didn't know that anyone could be listening in on my conversation if they were just that nosey to take the time to do it. SO I have been very careful with what I do and say Until I can get a new phone(it's hard because This phones not even a year old!)So I will I also cut any ties I had with people if I didn't trust them all the way. If I had even 1 doubt in my mind or thought that they could have done this I cut them out completely Hey I gotta watch out for the saftey of my family. Anyone that desperate to take all that time just to try and ruin someone elses life Is NOT stable. Anywho I don't want anyone to worry I got it under control ,but please take steps to protect yourself when dealing with the computer of phone.

GOD BLESS!

Pre Organizing!

2010-10-22T06:01:00.001-06:00

I gotta get on it ..Not clean clean cleaning,But organizing! It's that time of year I feel like it just happened but I do notice slight differences {like last year I had like 8 trash bags full of junk and like 3 boxes full of giveaways}This year it looks like it may just be a couple boxes of giveaways. I've been real good this entire year with throwing out the unnecessary items. So it has been great ,even hubby mentioned something about a nice clean house everyday and He didn't know how I did it.I don't know how I did it either all it know is it got done. So It's not going to be that hard for me this time around to get rid of what we don't need and bless someone who may need it. I know one of the first things to go are my cute little cultural outfits Yep I will give those to someone who needs them ,which is extremely hard for me(but I know if I write it down I will actually do it.) Other than that Organize organize organize. That will be my middle name until it gets done. I wont be having any surprise visiters this year lol. Goodluck to you if you will be trying to acchomplish the same feat.
Enjoy!!

Gonna Be Missing My Baby!!

2010-10-21T06:00:00.001-06:00

We're going out of town this weekend and next weekend.Both of our regular dog-sitters are out of commission.I will have have to board her(which she doesn't mind)but it's a little hard on the pockets (if you know what I mean.)Out of all of that my puppy will be away from home and so will I ..She already acts desperate for attention when I leave all day.Any ways she'll be ok I'm more worried about myself.LOL ..Now I'm off I get some time off at one of my jobs so I will nap ,then exercise and then work.When I do get home she will be on me like white on rice. Yep she's gonna get extra extra spoiled oh well I can't help it.I just continue to thank GOD for all the many blessings!!

Enjoy !

Home Management & Coupon Binder Updates

2010-10-20T05:10:00.000-06:00

I REALLY have been working on my Home Management Binder, REALLY :-) Working on my HMB led me to "fix up" my Coupon Binder. I must say that I really, really, really LOVE my coupon binder! Well, my coupon binder looks great but my HMB is literally a huge pile that I'm waiting for to transform itself into the perfect HMB. I do however have a list of sections started, which are: Prayer List, Homeschool, Cleaning Schedule, Chore List, Homemade Personal and Cleaning Products and Holiday Preparation. Everything food related is in my Coupon Binder. My Coupon Binder is really neat, the cover is pictures of my family, the inside has a clear plastic sleeve that holds recipes I'll be using for the next two weeks (I grocery shop every two weeks) and my grocery list. Tape to the plastic sleeve is an envelope that I keep track of my receipts. We have a $400 monthly allowance for our family of five. Next I have pencil bag that holds a calculator, scissors, pens, highlighter, store discount cards and nutrition and price guides to some of my favorite restaurants. The sections for my Coupon Binder are: Price Lists and Menu, General Grocery (for manufacturer coupons that can be used anywhere), King Soopers, Vitamin Cottage and Whole Foods, Albertsons, Cleaning, Personal, Pets, Restaurants and Miscellaneous.

Make photo slide shows at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Make video montages at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Now I told you guys my HMB was a work in progress, pray for me:-)

Too Busy, I FORGOT!!

2010-10-19T10:30:00.000-06:00

I am running all over town getting ready for the holidays and all that good stuff. It seems like just yesterday that we(my sis and I ) started this blog. Well you have all seen us go through ups and downs ,good and bads and I dont think we have a better group of people to go through these things with. But Anywho I was racing around and had this perfect thought to celebrate Annies (my puppy) birthday then celebrate My hubbys. The 2 are days are 7days apart I figured how perfect. So as I'm working my tush off going here and there whilst planning 2 trips one to NC and then to AL . I forgot...... Yep today 2 days later as I look my beautiful doggy in the face I realize I forgot her BIRTHDAY!! I felt soo bad ,I mean how do you make that up for a dog. I mean I even forgot her doggy cake (I cant go grab all the ingredients that fast) SO as I thought about it all I treated her to goldfish crackers and cheese balls. Not the healthiest choice but She looked at me with those cute little eyes and I gave in. SO yep I gotta go out and get the right stuff and make that cake. You guys didn't see how adorable it was watching her whack the plate out from under the cake and chow down. It was great so I will definitely get on it. So I figured I'd share hopefully this will just help me to not forget the other bday coming up LOL. Well Thanx for listening to my story!
Enjoy!!

Here's My Testimony!

2010-10-17T06:00:00.002-06:00

By Request:

I'm am always sharing my testimonies with the ones I love. When I was asked one day to share it with others,which I do not mind considering it wasn't me It was all GOD,(who is worthy of all praise.) So I am establishing my credit I know I'm digging into my personal life but I have to for you all to understand clearly. So my credit wasn't bad but it wasn't good either considering most of what I had I was still paying OR was hospital bills. So here I go to try to fix my credit, I remember once someone telling me to dispute all the negatives but I didn't know what to do with that. So I hopped on over to check my credit and all handy dandy right there was where I could dispute. So I had a field day I disputed what I could BUT (I prayed before I did.) Then left it alone I figured if nothing happened things would remain the same and if something happened it couldn't be any worse,So I had nothing to lose. Well life has been going very good aside from the fact that I'm working my bum off (literally.) Not necessarily a bad thing but the knowledge of knowing there was something in my life that needed to be fixed still weighed on me. Well I went to check the mail which I almost didn't because I thought "It's just going to be bills or advertisements" none of the 2 I wanted cluttering my home. I went anyways I checked the mail to find a big envelope from a place I've never been. I said,'Oh great this has got to be a big bill." I opened it up before I even arrived back home just in case I was so mad I wanted to toss it . When opened it was about my credit report and stating I had disputed something and these are the outcomes that I had to look forward to. I just knew that they were going to decide to investigate further or leave the debt the same ,so I placed it down. Well I'm noisy so I figured let me read the rest of this junk ,when I opened it back up there it was clear as day DELETED that means it was totally erased from my record. Oh I was so thrilled I thought that they were going to send me another envelope with the verdict but it was right there. SO one down a couple more to go,I will be praying a lot more until I get the verdict on the rest LOL. Not a needy prayer but a prayer of thanks. That was just 1 of my many testimonies I would love to here some of yours!!
Here's a good video with other peoples testimonies. Hallelujah!!

Easter Cardboard Testimonies from Nate Graham on Vimeo.

Why is it That....?

2010-10-16T06:00:00.001-06:00

Why is it that ....It's easier to clean somebody else mess,but when it comes to yours HUM.
Why is it that.....It's easier to watch t.v than read a good book.
Why is it that.....You cook all the time but when it comes to a potluck ,you're nervous.
Why is it that..... For yourself you don't have the money but if someone else ask for help,there's no question
I had originally begin this post to finish with a list of Why is it that Questions but When stuff doesn't flow It could be something else needs to be said. Lets dwell on a couple of what is it questions for awhile (if you don't mind..) It's always been easy for me to go clean someone else house but than my house looks astray. Could it be the generosity that is naturally found in women ,Think about it GOD had to make us giving creatures,(we often give our lives away for the people that we love.)It's often easy for me to sit down in front of the television,Knowing there isn't anything of interest on and that directly in the next room there's a great book to read. Could it be that the sound of the t.v reminds us of the noise we face day to day. Think about it You get married ,maybe buy a dog and havelittle mini you's ..It's not a quiet life.Maybe the sound of nothing reminds us that we have good noises in our lives.I always cook every day ,I find it interesting that when ever we have a pot luck(covered dish,bring something from home..whatever you may call it.) I get so nervous. I think will they like my food and I try to please everyone (Ann's a vegetarian,Bobs a meat eater and Hannah can't have cheese) You know the pleasing spirit. Well God had to have made us with such a pleasing spirit how else could we as women show such acts of servitude to our spouses.Lastly the reason why I started a new theme to the post and for this I will give you an example. You have $40 you go to buy some things needed for your home.You have gotten everything needed and find that you still have a little over $20 left When all of a sudden a beautiful blouse catches your eye only $8 it would be perfect and you have been needing a blouse you grab it off the rack.As you head up to the line your phone rings it's a (cousin,sister,friend acquaintance...)They need $20 you immediatly put the blouse back and meet with them to offer your gift of $20. It took me awhile to see that some of these things can be looked at as negative. Just look at the type of person God made you too be and it will all make sense. I never really sat down to investigate all of this until today. I have made sense to me. I hope I have done some good for you!
GOD BLESS!

CAN I SAVE 8 MIN...?

2010-10-15T06:00:00.000-06:00

Getting fit is in everyone agenda but rarely gets done. I have noticed by being around a lot of people that many pack on the pounds in the winter. Kind of like a bear....You know they get bigger and then when summer arrives they try to shed it all last minute. I guess it could be all the holidays in the winter (food,food and more food)Or it could be the fact that you are covered up more in the winter I'm not sure.I did notice that even I bulk up a little bit during the winter. I mean who wants to exercise when those extra pounds can be covered with a nice sweater,plus I am NOT a cold weather person. So I guess there would be less activities Lets add that to our list of excuses. Any who.. I figured out you really have to find something that you don't mind doing . I can't tell you what it will be for you but I found my thing. An 8 min Tae Bo video.Now I can always say I have been adicted to taebo videos every since they first came out. So this is the one!! I mean even when I don't feel like exercising . Who in their right mind can say that they can't set aside 8 mins a day. You can't so when I'm tired or just came in from work or just plain ol' don't feel like exercising I pop in the videoand start working out by the time I realize I really don't want to do it the video is over with.Done I mean it's the best thing ever, It's like I get a workout without even thinking about it. So find your niche for the winter and STICK with it.You may be stronger than me and find a 20 min video or 30 min gym time is best. Or you may be a little busier and find that 2 min jumping jacks or 5 min cool down works better for you. Just keep in mind any exercise is better than none at all. SO fit IT in to stay FIT!
Enjoy!

OH DEER!

2010-10-14T06:00:00.000-06:00

Well my puppy always acts out (up) when we have new neighbors moving in. I can just imagine what she would be thinking .....Roof ,who are these people..Roof, why are they so close to my house..Roof, what are they doing.. Roof ,I must tell someone Roof roof roof roof roof.. Yep she would probably be thinking that. So anyways she was barking a little much but I left it alone knowing why. Last night however I couldn't take it anymore first she barked every time the new neighbors went out or came in.Than it doesn't help they have two small children who like to bark back at the dog (LOL.)but As I was sleeping she went nuts ,I woke up and checked the cars nothing there but she was persistent she barked and barked until hubby woke up.I stayed asleep I was done with it I decided to block her barking out of my mind.So barking blocked I was cozy,comfy and sleep...When I suddenly awoke to my husband standing at the window saying "OH MY ....WHAT IN THE WORLD IS THAT???" I was determined to stay asleep so I ignored him like I heard nothing BUT He was determined to wake me up. He began shouting ,"BABE WAKE UP, WAKE UP, IT"S A DEER!!"I was tired and not thinking straight the only thing in my mind was sleep ,I thought ,"I don't care about a deer,a deer He wants me to wake up for a DEER ,OMG NO thank you."Well conscience got the best of me I got up and I'm glad I did. There in the middle of the road was a gigantic deer ,that had possibly just gotten out of a fight do to the fact that 1 of his antlers stood up and 1 was dangling by His face.Beautiful this deer was,with strong build staring straight at my dog.Yep almost with a look like He was tormenting her on purpose.So there it was my Big pooch who compared to this deer looked like a chihuahua. Chasing her tail,barking wildly and a Deer who polited stood staring back ,so still that without a close look you would miss it. What was I to do I couldnt get mad at my puppy. Shoot I would have done the same thing if a deer was looking at me like that.Thats pretty much how my night went ,just thought I'd share.
Enjoy!

Let's Get Fit

2010-10-12T21:16:00.000-06:00

Okay Ladies,

I found out about this awesome site and challenge through one of my favorite blogs, The Shred Sisters, and had to share. There's this challenge called , The Christmas Crunch Challenge, and it's some lovely Christian ladies getting in shape together. To find out the details and to get more info. just hop on over to their blog and let's get fit together :-)

Home management Binder How To

2010-10-10T20:27:00.001-06:00

Home Management Binder In Progress

2010-10-05T22:54:00.001-06:00

I love the idea of a Home Management Binder and I've even had one in the past that received lots of use but as time has passed and needs have changed I find myself needing a new one. To me this project is a little more exciting than making my coupon binder, which I've finished, love and gets LOTS of use. I have some pretty neat ideas for my binder and would love it if any of you ladies use one if you'd please share it. It would be great to glean some more ideas from other Christian homemakers. I'm gonna get started on it this weekend and I'll post updates as I work through it.

Busy Bees!

2010-10-05T06:00:00.000-06:00

Sis and I are living life on the fast lane oh yeah. She started before me and was sooo busy we hardly talked. Well with the holidays coming up and hubby's job acting funny,I opted for a day job. Yep so I am working in the day ,Occasionally on nights and every Saturday. Not to mention keeping up the house because I can not let my house go to shame.LOL So Sis and I take like 2 min breaks between our busy schedules to keep up with each other. Thankfully Sis (schI) Has been keeping you all up to date on the blog because I have been no help.. Oh yes Testimony so I had a lot of bad things happening in my life all of a sudden ,Yes like crashing and burning. Well I had a voice (take it as you wish) that told me to fast for 3 days. After fasting GOD blessed me with a closer relationship with HIM a closer relationship with my husband.A new car (so hubby and I don't have to hare anymore)A day job, I was able to bless my nephew by helping him with a fundraiser ...... I have many more but I felt obligated to share with you my testimonies. Fasting works One of my favorite books is FASTING by Jentezen Franklin

Lentil Burgers

2010-10-04T04:47:00.000-06:00

This recipe is now one of my very favorites. It's a healthier take on the regular beef patty, it's packed with nutrients and very easy and frugal

Yield	8-10 burgers
Time	1 hour
Tools	saucepan with lid wooden spoon small frying pan large bowl blender or food processor small bowl
Ingredients	1 c dry lentils, well rinsed 2½ c water ½ t salt 1 T olive oil ½ medium onion, diced 1 medium carrot, diced ½ t pepper 1 t soy sauce, optional ¾ c rolled oats, finely ground ¾ c bread crumbs
Directions	Place the lentils, water, and salt in saucepan, bring to a boil, lower heat, cover, and simmer for about 45 minutes, until water is nearly gone and lentils are very soft, with splitting skins. Sauté the onion and carrot in oil until soft, about 5 minutes. Mix the lentils, onions, carrots, pepper, and optional soy sauce in the large bowl, then mix in the ground oats and bread crumbs. While still warm, form the lentil mixture into patties, which can now be frozen, refrigerated (for up to 5 days), or cooked immediately. Cooking (2 possibilities): In a frying pan, heat a bit of oil, place a burger on top, and fry until brown, 1-2 minutes. Repeat on other side and serve. In a 400º oven, bake the burgers on a greased baking sheet until light brown, about 15 minutes.

Date Night Update

2010-09-29T06:58:00.000-06:00

Hubby and I have a standing date EVERY Sunday and it is going GREAT!!! It's so nice to get to enjoy one another's company without our kids interrupting. Everyday after our dates until our next date hubby sends me love texts all day. I love it! To get such wonderful little love notes that way. It seems like he's seeing me in a different light and can't get enough. It's absolutely wonderful! I'd really suggest that if you're married and don't have a weekly date night then do it. You won't regret it. You don't have to have much money or even any money at all. Take the kids to grandma and prepare a meal at home for you and your beloved. I can't wait to share with you all as we work through the book, Married and How to Stay That Way.

WELCOME HOME BEAU!!!!

2010-09-27T19:16:00.000-06:00

Beau has returned home...from public school. That didn't last too long. He was very adamant about going to school and had many assumptions of how public school is better and a lot more fun than homeschooling. Well reality set in and quick and we welcome him back with OPEN arms! WE LOVE YOU BEAU!!!!!

HAND SANITIZER, THE NEW HAIR SPRAY

2010-09-26T22:10:00.000-06:00

You guys will not believe what I did! See those two bottles in the picture above? The one on the left is hand sanitizer and the one on the right is hairspray. Well, some little blessing (I'm not sure which of the three) put the hand sanitizer on the bathroom sink. That stuff is NEVER on the bathroom sink. We keep it in the diaper bag. Let me correct myself, I keep it in the diaper bag :-) Anyway, I go to straighten my hair this morning and begin to spray strands of hair with the sanitizer thinking that it's my hair spray. I begin wondering only about 3/4 of the way through getting my hair all straightened, why in the world does my hair keep sizzling like I'm frying bacon and why do I still see frizz. Let me tell you that I'm really quite ditsy in case I had any of you fooled:-) Only when I'm almost finished with my hair do I realize that I had been spraying hand sanitizer in my hair instead of hairspray. At that point I just quit until later in the day. I'm pretty sure MANY people were wondering what in the world was going on with my hair today:-) Hey, we all have our moments.

LEFTOVERS, LEFTOVERS EVERYWHERE

2010-09-22T05:49:00.000-06:00

I opened my fridge and there were just SO MANY containers filled with...LEFTOVERS! I mean there were more leftovers than fresh foods. I hate the thought of wasting food. So what was I to do but make a casserole with the leftovers. A casserole is a good comfort food any day. Let me tell you what I did; I took and layered a large casserole dish with with cooked rice, on top of that I spread cream of chicken soup, on top of the cream of chicken soup came my leftovers. I had a little chicken noodle soup, a little chicken stir-fry and a little beef stir fry. After layering my leftovers I spread another layer of cream of chicken soup and topped with shredded cheese. I baked it in the oven on 350deg. for about 45 minutes. My family LOVED it! They ate so much and even my picky guy, Bakari, went for seconds.

Bible Study Update

2010-09-20T09:00:00.000-06:00

What started off as a bible study on the book, Married and How to Stay That Way, between my friend and I, now also includes our husbands. I'm so excited! My friend and I get together every Friday and go through the chapter for that week and then over the weekend we all get together and go over the study. There's mine and hubby's automatic weekly date :-) In chapter two there's a questionnaire that goes over things that really help in maintaining a Christ-centered marriage . After going over the questionnaire you're supposed to work on the things that aren't happening. My hubby suggested that we pray together daily. I thought that was a perfect starting point. Here's the list in case anyone else is interested in taking part:

Do you pray with your spouse about personal issues in your life?
Do you pray with your spouse about your marriage on a regular basis?
Do you go to church and sit with each other on a weekly basis?
Do you talk about things you have learned from the sermon later that day?
Do you talk over the things you are learning in your personal reading of Scripture or from a book about the bible?
Do you serve others together? As Sunday School teachers? Edifying others? Giving of your time to help others in practical ways?
Do you talk over your day with each other when you gather together in the evening?
Do you freely share your opinions and ideas with your spouse?
Do you regularly give encouragement, and can you also receive it from your spouse?
Do you make future plans together and can you make decisions together?
Do you share your hopes, fears, hurts, and goals with each other?
Do you have any mutual recreation that you do together in which you communicate? Walking, biking, working out at a gym, etc.
Do you go shopping together and enjoy just being together?
Do you have a weekly date night?
Do you daily verbalize your love to your spouse?
Do you do chores around the house together?
Do you write cards or love notes to each other?
Do you share your deepest emotions with each other?
Do you give and receive emotional support to and from each other?
Do you have the freedom to laugh and cry with each other?
Do you accept your emotional differences?
Do you give gifts periodically to your spouse just to say ,"I love you"?
Do you serve your mate when your help is requested?
Do you, in a non-sexual way, touch and hold each other on a daily basis?
Do you approach each other regularly for sexual relations, and are your advances received favorably?

Do you express real affection while engaged in sexual relations, or is it just a physical act with little emotion?

After reading through the list of questions, you're supposed to find the ones your not doing as a couple and work on those a few at a time. By-the-way, I'm thinking this study is pretty neat!

Newspaper Thief!!

2010-09-17T06:00:00.000-06:00

O.k well not really but here's the story....I had a neighbor who lived downstairs from me and she always got newspapers ,well what she did was got 2 (one for her and one for her friend.)Well when she moved because she was on a contract she just switched the address one to go to her and one to another neighbor.I know I know it sounds confusing but stay with me... Any who She is still receiving a newspaper at her old apartment (though no one lives there anymore.) Also now my friend who was receiving her 2nd paper told me I could have them because she didn't want them. So every morning when I take the dog for a walk I go get a paper. I kind of sneak because I can only imagine what my other neighbors are thinking. Just picture little old me, walking with my giant of a dog ,crouching over ,tip toeing and running around to try and grab the paper before anyone sees me. I just would hate the thought of my neighbors thinking I'm a newspaper thief I can picture them talking behind my back. Oh don't talk to Alonna she steals newspapers OR Don't hang around that lady she's a thief. I don't know maybe I'm over reacting but for now I'm going keep sneaking my papers!!!

The Weight Debate

2010-09-16T06:00:00.000-06:00

So as I spoke with hubby one night ,we or should I say I brought up the subject of my behind.You know the rear end!! Well people would say I have an hour glass figure I just call it an apple bottom. I just think the rear end of my truck is a little too wide.Hopefully you can follow my lingo,so he actually got mad because I said I was working to drop it down a few sizes. I could have choked laughing actually I think I swallowed my gum.I couldn't believe this man was getting upset because his wife wanted to drop lbs . I would have thought he would jump for joy.Needless to say I am getting back on a workout routine but instead of my target muscle being the rear I'll do something like arms or calves.LOL What women do to keep their men happy.Heck I enjoy eating certain things that may not help that muscle go down anyways . So Hopefully someone else has gone through something similar or else I'll probably just feel pretty strange.

Enjoy!!

These are the days...

2010-09-15T06:00:00.000-06:00

What could be more fun than homeschooling preschool? It's all fun and games, LITERALLY! My daughter and I are having the best time playing games like color and shape bingo, memory match, color by number and many, many others. My FAVORITE subject is homemaking :-) Couldn't have guessed it could ya? Here we are hosting a preschool co-op at our house, making lunch. By-the-way, we made peanut butter and jelly tortillas.

Make photo slide shows at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Also, we went to the Nature and Science Museum on a free day only to be offered 20% off of a one year family membership. Well, we love that museum so I couldn't resist and got one. Now we can go and enjoy the museum when it's not a free day and not so crowded. Here's Ariana and a couple of her friends at the museum

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Not a T.V watcher

2010-09-14T06:00:00.001-06:00

Ok I'm not really a t.v watcher, I will watch a good reality show once in a while. Anyways I have been freshening up my Spanish because like I tell everyone I speak spanglish.Yeah every other word is like an English word but to my defense some English words are just not in existence in Spanish. So I have had down time as you have seen in my precious post so T.V. Well I decided I can watch Spanish t.v that way I can freshen up. It's actually cool because before when I would watch Telemundo I really couldn't follow because it was all so fast. Now I'm actually following really good and I have some favorite shows LOL. But that's just my secret to keep up with my language,I just have to make sure I don't get too caught up and become a couch potato LOL(it's hard enough for me just to sit long enough to eat food.) I know I just kind of rambled today but I love keeping everyone up to date on my new endeavors.
Enjoy!

Book Study

2010-09-11T23:01:00.000-06:00

I finally found a book to study. I didn't really find it myself, my church is doing a study with it on Monday nights and since I'm not available Mon. nights a friend and I are getting together during the week in the day to go through the book. It looks like a really neat book. I can't wait to let you all know!

Doggie & Mommy Boredom

2010-09-09T06:15:00.002-06:00

So I have been taking it easy due to mild migraines during the day. So while I have been taking it easy Annie(puppy dog) has been taking it boring. Yep she has been so bored trying to get all kinds of attention and fighting sleep. I didn't know what I was going to do,I felt very bad because I knew she should have more activities but I just didn't feel up to it. Being the good mommy that I am I often just pushed through things like walks and playing fetch but the pain was intense.Then after we played I would be exhausted and fall asleep where ever I could lay first. It's not serious we are waiting for results from Dr. so I can go off being me,But for now me and pooch must take it easy. I have taken the initiative to bring her into a room with me when I need to lay down or just relax that way she's not alone. Annie has shown a big difference now that she knows I'm not ignoring her.Today I have big plans to get back into my exercise routine and wear Annie out lol. It's going to be great fun oh and a good tip Tennis courts. When you are tired but your pup isn't, take them to a tennis court and let them romp about. It is nice and enclosed so they will be safe and you can supervise without taken too much of your energy!

Enjoy!

Picky Eaters!

2010-09-08T06:15:00.000-06:00

Such a picky eater! That’s what I used to call my husband until I realized I’m picky too! Since we have been married I have begun to realize that there are too types of picky. Junky picky and Healthy picky. Junky picky eaters will stray from healthy types of food and lean more towards foods they are more familiar with say pizza, more than a veggie wrap. That describes my hubby next…are Healthy picky those people stray from junky foods and stick to more healthy types more fruits and veggies than say cooked foods that’s me. I was very surprised to realize that I, Me was a picky eater but I am. If I can’t find something healthy in the house I am NOT eating. Where as hubby will not eat anything he has not eaten before (ask me how that works, it’s hard)But we have learned to work with each other I will buy things he is used to but I will make it healthy. He has learned to be understanding when I just need to buy fresh produce .I just find it soo funny me of all people a picky eater. I usually try everything but as far as on a normal basis I’m healthy food all the way. Hubby on the other hand He will try some healthy foods but for the most part he’s Pizza and pancakes all the way.

What can I say opposites attract!

Reduce Fat???

2010-09-07T08:13:00.000-06:00

Reduce fat ?!?!?! That’s the question that rung in my head all day. Here’s what happened My husband and I went to our annual physical. Everything done we find out that hubby has high cholesterol and needs to reduce fatty foods. HAHA those who haven’t seen pics of my hubby he’s is stick thin and all muscle. When they said he needed to reduce fat Im thinking “What Fat?” Any who … so as I dig around in my brain to figure out what he’s eating that’s not good; a light bulb shined bright in my head. Eggs yes this is coming from the egg queen I love love love eggs BUT that had to be what was spiking up his cholesterol. See now how was I to tell him I had to take another food away from him. I had just taken away his bacon, now his eggs. How is he possibly going to enjoy his favorite meal (pancakes, bacon and eggs?) It was hard enough reducing it to pancakes and eggs. Nope I had to figure something out so I called my sis and she gave me a great idea take out the yolks. So I tried it out a few days and he loved it when it was in something like a biscuit or sandwich but alone not so much. I figure I will just keep making the eggs like that and he will eventually have no choice but to eat them .At least he can still enjoy Pancakes and eggs

IN PREPARATION FOR THE WEEK AHEAD

2010-09-05T08:19:00.000-06:00

I am so glad that Monday is Labor Day! I am in need of a little rest. That gives me one extra day before I tackle Mount Washmore and iron that weeks worth of clothes. Monday we are gonna go to some friends and just eat and relax, and they could care less if we're in wrinkled attire :-) But I DO have to prepare ahead of time for the week ahead or my household will be complete chaos. Here's what I'll need to do:

Go over to my fancy schmansy communication center (not really, just a dry erase board and huge calendar)

Check out what I may need to pick up from the store

Make sure house is straightened

Wash and iron our clothes for the week ahead

And lastly, check out what I have planned for the week ahead

This weeks menu is made of of recipes from the book, Hungry Girl.

Mon.-Eat at friends. We're bringing salad.
Tues.-Burger wraps
Wed.-Veggie stuffed peppers
Thurs.- Cheesy beefy quesadillas
Fri.-BLT salad wraps
Sat.-Pizza night
Sun.-Philly cheesesteak subs
Mon.-BLT quesadillas

BAKING DAY

2010-09-04T10:58:00.000-06:00

I didn't plan on waking up and spending the morning baking, but once I got started I just couldn't and didn't want to stop. Try to imagine the smell guys :-)

I started off this morning making some homemade granola. I've been craving granola!

Then I thought maybe I should make some bran muffins since I was almost out. About 3 dozen will do

Remember that apple pie I wanted to make my family yesterday? well I didn't get around to it because we had some unexpected guests, so I HAD to make it today!

I forgot to take a picture before everyone dug into the pie. It smelled so good!
Well since I still needed to make my family breakfast I ended up cooking up about 3 weeks worth of pancakes.

Great Bible Study Anyone?

2010-09-03T06:08:00.000-06:00

O.k., I'm in search of another bible study and don't know which one to choose. There are so many choices! It's
kind of like going to a homeschool curriculum fair. I finished up, LORD I NEED GRACE TO MAKE IT TODAY by Kay Arthur and that was a really good one. Any suggestions?

Health Benefits of Turmeric

2010-09-01T14:59:00.000-06:00

I've been trying out a few new recipes and quite a bit used the spice Turmeric. I've never heard of or used it before so I thought I'd research it a little and I found it had quite a few health benefits. Here's a neat little article I found on the spice:

In recent years, turmeric benefits have captured the attention of Western scientists and herbalists. However, this herb held a place of honor in India's traditional Ayurvedic medicine because they have always known the magical medicinal powers of turmeric.

Before we delve into the health benefits of turmeric, including the possible side effects of turmeric, we would like to share with you a little about its healing history and traditional turmeric benefits.
Turmeric is a perennial shrub that is grown in India and other tropical areas of Asia. It was long used as a hot yellow spice to flavor Indian cuisine. In addition, it was added to a variety of mustards to give them a potent "bite."
In India's traditional Ayurvedic medicine turmeric was a symbol of prosperity - it was considered a whole body cleansing herb. Medically, it was used as an aid for digestive disturbances and as a treatment for fever, infections, dysentery, arthritis, jaundice and other liver problems.
The traditional Chinese physicians also used turmeric medically to treat liver and gallbladder problems, stop bleeding, and relieve chest congestion and menstrual discomforts.

How Can Turmeric Benefits…Benefit You?

The Health Benefits of Turmeric……….

The health benefits of turmeric lie in the active ingredient called curcumin. This powerful compound gives turmeric its therapeutic benefits, its yellow color, and its pungent flavor. More specifically, curcumin harbors antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, stomach-soothing, and liver-and heart-protecting effects.
Turmeric is thought to reduce inflammation by lowering histamine levels and it may also stimulate the adrenal glands to increase production of a hormone that reduces inflammation. It is often used to ease joint pain and inflammation associated with arthritis. However, it is also used to reduce joint pain and in inflammation in other disorders as well.
Turmeric (curcumin) also harbors rich stores of antioxidants. Antioxidants are disease-fighting substances that mop up the continuous onslaught of free radicals. Free radicals are unstable oxygen molecules that damage cells as they travel through the body and are responsible for premature aging and diseases such as cancer if left unchecked. In fact, Naturopaths often recommend turmeric for situations in which high concentrations of antioxidants are required.
Studies with animals show that turmeric benefits liver health. Several animal studies suggest that turmeric protects the liver from the damaging effects of certain toxins, including alcohol. These findings certainly lend credence to the herb's history of use in liver aliments.
Among the many health benefits of turmeric, is that it harbors antiplatelet activity. The herb reduces the ability of the blood to form clots and, as such, this action may improve circulation as well as offer some protection against heart attacks and strokes.
If you suffer from digestive problems this may be the herb for you. Turmeric helps digest fats by stimulating the flow of bile. No wander it was used traditionally as a digestive aid.
Laboratory studies indicate that curcumin has anti-cancer activity. More specifically, it destroys some types of cancer cells. For example, in the laboratory, curcumin kills cultures of human leukemia cells. This action may be due to turmeric's antioxidant properties or some other anti-cancer activity. Needless to say, more research is needed to determine turmeric benefits as a potential cancer agent.

This is the way we mop our floors, we mop our floors , we mop our floors...

2010-08-31T08:43:00.000-06:00

That tune just keeps playing over and over in my mind when I go to mop the floors now. I've always mopped our floors by filling up one side of the sink with a mixture of bleach and water, then taking that sponge mop or towel (depending on how clean I was gonna get the floors) and getting busy. Well, I was running short on time the other day but my kitchen floor really needed to be mopped. I think it's the homemaker in me, I just couldn't do anything else until that floor was shining. I grabbed my spray bottle that I also keep a mixture of bleach and water in and started spraying the floor, following it up with my sponge mop. That took so little time that I think I'm gonna do it that way more often. There are times when I gotta get on my hands and knees and get them baseboards and corners, but from now on when my floor need a quick mopping that's what I'm gonna do.

A Gift From God

2010-08-29T08:10:00.000-06:00

Everyone has sinned-"For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23).

Because of our sin, we deserve death in hell-"For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord" (Romans 6:23).

We cannot save ourselves-" For by grace are you saved through faith: and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: not of works lest any man should boast" (Ephesians 2:8-9).

Christ died to take the punishment for our sin-"But God commendeth his love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us" (Romans 5:8).

Salvation is a free gift that we receive by trusting Christ as our personal Savior-" For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life" (John 3:16).

Will you accept God's free gift? If you have never received Christ and would like to do so please e-mail me and I'd love to pray with you. simplechristianhomemaking@gmail.com

In Him,
Amy

The small places count.

2010-08-26T07:58:00.000-06:00

When in a rush I always always straighten up my house.I may be running from here to there but I always clean something. Well I have noticed in the midst of all this" rush cleaning" that there were small areas that I was missing. While they were small, I noticed them, those places that began to build up the stuff that I couldn’t put away that instance. Don’t get me wrong the house looked great but I saw those areas and they drove me nuts. The problem was every time I cleaned I chose to clean the house over the small spots, not realizing that was making the problem worse. Ok to get to my point as I rushed out the door yesterday I told myself just clean those little areas, so that is what I did. Man that made all the difference I thought it looked pretty good, but my thoughts were confirmed when I received a text from hubby stating,” how great the house looked!” It’s amazing how just those small spots in the house can make a huge difference. I have a show home again that I am not afraid of surprise visitors. So remember the small places count!

What's Cookin'?

2010-08-25T05:13:00.001-06:00

Here's what my dinner menu looks like this week:

Monday: Creole Poached Chicken

Tuesday: Lima beans, cornbread and veggies (cauliflower & broccoli)

Wednesday: Tuna salad sandwiches and salad (this is my light dinner night since we have church)

Thursday: Tamale casserole

Friday: Beef-n-Broccoli stir-fry, stir-fry veggies (you know the ones in the freezer section that say stir-fry veggies)

By having this menu I save so much time and money by not having to sit and figure out what's for dinner and not having to rush out to the store for an item. I make sure I have everything for that dinner before it goes on my list.

What do you do to prepare for the week ahead?

2010-08-24T05:02:00.001-06:00

Sunday night is when I get busy preparing for the week ahead. On paper it seems like tons to do but it's really not. Doing these things make my week run so much more smoothly. Here's what I do:

Create a weekly menu
Get snacks together for the next day
Lay out & iron clothes for the week
Make breakfast and lunch for the next day
Make sure all laundry and dishes have been washed & put away
Make sure house is straightened
Make sure boys have everything in there backpacks for the next day

What do you do to prepare for the week ahead? I can always use more or better ideas.

Switch it Up!

2010-08-23T07:23:00.000-06:00

So as I was walking my dog on the same strip of road and the same time in the morning,when I thought of something. Remember when you were a child and your momma told you never to keep the same routine outdoors. Back then I just thought she was being over protective,and made no sense. Now I know if the importance of changing your routine now and again.Well I know you already know but in case you don't,If you have a pattern or routine that stays the same you're more prone to be a victim of an attack or worse. I know I'm getting deep but I was thinking if I could save atleast one person it would be well worth it. I was getting caught up in a routine and didn't even realize it. Everyday at the same time I would walk my dog to the same place. I really didn't realize it until I had stopped doing it for a couple days.That's when it dawned on me I needed to switch things up a bit.I have to admit I missed seeing the children off for school that I pass on my walk,but they will see me the day I switch it up.Until then I'll keep walking (in different directions)while staying safe.

Have fun walking ,and remember:
SWITCH IT UP!

I've Missed Ya'll

2010-08-22T08:01:00.000-06:00

I'm back and I've missed ya'll SO VERY MUCH!!!! I uploaded three sets of pictures you guys can check out below, just a few things the kids have been doing. I've got a new schedule, THANK YOU JESUS!!! I've just got one more week of cleaning the pool, I'm only babysitting one extra child during the day three days a week, I'm babysitting the three that I was before but only 2.5 hours in the evenings three days a week, I'm doing my violations job during nap time from noon-2p.m. and then I pick up the boys from school and we play, have dinner and do homework. Because the boys go to charter schools, parents have to put in mandatory volunteer hours, so I help with traffic everyday at Bakari's school (he's so proud to have his mommy up there) and I take part in PTO meetings at both schools and that counts towards volunteer hours too. Two months ago I set out to lose 25 pounds and with LOTS of prayer I did it! God has really answered my prayers and gotten me through it because I could not have done it without Him. I just loved food a little too much :-) But I do have some cheap and healthy recipes to share with you guys. You'll start seeing some of those recipes in the sidebar under Frugal Recipes. I can't wait to share all the new things that are taking place in my life. Grab a cup of tea or coffee and let's spend some time :-)

First Day of School at OneTrueMedia.com

2010-08-22T07:43:00.001-06:00

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Swim Lessons at OneTrueMedia.com

2010-08-22T07:42:00.003-06:00

Make an on-line slideshow at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Soccer Clinic at OneTrueMedia.com

2010-08-22T07:42:00.001-06:00

Make photo slide shows at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Spider WHAT!!!

2010-08-19T12:37:00.000-06:00

I happened to walk into the house to hear screams from my husband. The screams were like OMG and Jesus Jesus Jesus!! So of course I run to find out what is happening ,to my surprise my hubby is flipping out over a spider web. Spider What I yelled while trying to contain my laughter. I mean you would have thought it was my husband that had woke up that morning to find a gigantic spider staring him in the face before taking the dog for a walk. (That was me BTW if you didn't get my hint) Any who I began to wonder how in the world did a spider web get in my house and ughhh! OK so after I threw my tiny fit compared to my hubbys I composed myself.Yes composure is key.... I grabbed my trusty hand held vacuum. I began vacuuming the crevices in the ceiling.I always thought about the floors but never the ceiling..So to conclude after vacuuming your floors, take out your little vacuum and get those ceilings . I call it spider preventative maintenance have fun.

Oh btw the pic is not of any web in my home lol

Learning LOTS!

2010-08-16T07:22:00.002-06:00

Ok so I have to admit I kind of slacked a bit on my exercises routine.So I am back in actions and spending my day on spark people(well as much of my day as I can.)Here are a couple cool things I am learning along the way:

The Do's and Don'ts of Efficient Fat-Burning

-- By Dean Anderson, Fitness & Behavior Expert

If you’re reading this, chances are pretty good that you don’t have a metabolism that lets you eat as much as you want without ever gaining an ounce. Maybe (like me) you’re even at the other extreme, where it seems like all you have to do is smell the foods you love to start packing on the pounds. Does this mean you’re doomed to a lifetime of munching on carrot sticks with fat-free dressing, while watching your hollow-legged friends enjoy their pasta Alfredo and chocolate cheesecake? Not at all.

There are lots of things you can do to turn your body into an efficient fat-burning machine, and they don't include depriving yourself of foods you love, resorting to unhealthy gimmicks, or taking expensive “fat-melting” supplements that fail to deliver what they promise. All you have to do is avoid a few common mistakes, and include some simple ways to boost your daily calorie burn.

Metabolism DON'TS

* Don’t reduce your calorie intake too low. The fact that you gain weight easily is proof that your body likes to shift into fat-storage mode at the drop of a hat, and going too low on calories is one of the easiest ways to trigger that reaction (often referred to as starvation mode). Don’t fall for the mistaken idea that the less you eat, the more you’ll lose—that’s just not how your body works. Staying within your recommended calorie range will keep your internal furnace stoked so that you have more capacity to burn stored fat.

* Don’t skip meals. Going too long between meals affects your body chemistry in ways that can make weight loss more difficult. Most people can manage their hunger and avoid cravings and overeating by spreading out their calories into four to five small, well-balanced meals or snacks during the day. Try not to go more than four to five hours without eating something.

* Don’t short yourself on shut eye. More research is showing that chronic sleep deprivation plays a significant role in weight gain. Your body needs plenty of “downtime” for the internal housekeeping that keeps your metabolism in good working order. The occasional late night won’t hurt you, but consistently sleeping just one hour less than you need may slow down your weight loss considerably.

Metabolism DO'S

* Build muscle! This is the most important action you can take to maintain a high metabolic rate while trying to lose weight. Strength training prevents you from losing a lot of muscle along with the fat you lose when dieting. If you don’t strength train regularly, up to 30% of the weight you lose could be muscle tissue. Considering that a pound of muscle burns about 3 times more calories per day than a pound of fat even when you’re sitting still (and up to 15-20 times more calories per minute when you're physically active), you can see the problems this can cause. If you lose 20 pounds of weight (and 30% of that weight loss is muscle—seven pounds), you’ll be slowing your metabolism and your fat burning capacity down by a significant amount. A simple strength training program twice a week can limit your muscle loss to almost zero, and keep your metabolism running high.

* Stay as active as possible. The more you use your muscles, the more calories you will burn. Moderate exercise like walking can burn three to six times more calories per minute than sitting still, and high intensity exercise like interval training can burn more than 12 times as much. Likewise, the more you vary your daily activity and exercise, the more you keep your body on its fat-burning toes.

* Don’t just sit there. If you’re watching TV or sitting at your desk, get up frequently to do a few exercises. Keep those resistance bands and dumbbells nearby at all times—you can fit a complete strength training workout into the commercial breaks of a one-hour TV show. Ditch your chair and sit on a stability ball (or a stationary bike) instead—even fidgeting can help!

* Exercise in the morning or in frequent bouts. Both strength and cardio exercises boost metabolism by increasing your calorie burn even AFTER your session is done. You can get the most out of this perk by starting your day with a workout or by incorporating multiple exercise sessions into your day. Longer or intense workouts have a greater "after burn” but even a 15-minute walk will make a difference.

* Try interval training. The harder you work, the more calories you will burn both during and after exercise—plus your fitness level will really improve. Studies show that exercising as intensely as you can, for at least 10 minutes per day, produces the best results. Interval training is an effective way to increase the intensity and duration of your workouts without running yourself into the ground or risking injury.

* Include mental exercises. One of the most important (but least recognized) factors in keeping your metabolic fires well stoked is managing stress effectively. Chronic stress disrupts the hormones that regulate everything from appetite to fat storage, and can defeat even the best exercise and eating plans. The more effort you put into recognizing and handling stress, the better off you’ll be. Include some time in your schedule every day for relaxation exercises, yoga, journaling, and other stress management activities.

And Most Importantly…
Make exercise and healthy eating FUN! Experiment frequently with new exercises and recipes, or anything that keeps you interested and adds some spice to your program. Well, don’t stop there. The more variety you can put in your diet and your exercise routine, the more stimulating it will be. That makes it easy to put your best efforts forward, and get a major metabolic return on your investment.

Church Revival!!!

2010-08-12T07:40:00.000-06:00

How funny is it that I work a part time job at night just about every night of the week,when I called last night to see if I had to work they let me know they didn't have work wed & Thur.(They have Never done that before.)So I just shrugged my shoulders and went about my day when all of a sudden I get a call from my MIL asking if I was going to church. Church????? I responded ,only to find out that wed & Thur night they are having a revival. I went even though the odds were against me not to go after hubby arrived home.We set aside all that and went....It was all about God .At first it took me a while to warm up but then I set aside all my worries and gave them all to GOD. It was a beautifully wonderful experience.One of our many sermon titles was ,"When the odds are against you." By Dr.Marvin Sapp The reference verse was Joshua 11:1 &5-6. To keep it short it was talking about how God wants us to depend on Him,and sometimes you have to wait to get your full blessing.Also it talked about how even though God told Joshua not to fret because tomorrow 'He would win the battle' That Joshua didn't just wait around but he started telling of Gods many blessing to come.Pretty much giving the enemy a black eye. So if I had to give you one thing to walk away with it would be. Give satan a black eye when ever the odds are against you praise the Lord For you know that God has a much bigger and better plan for you!!! Oh yeah and yes I will be at revival tonight..

This And That...

2010-08-11T05:29:00.000-06:00

O.k. guys, what have I been doing with myself? Just a little too much I'd say :-) I just wanted to share a few updates with you guys about goings on in my house. I'll do it in list format because it really is quite a bit.

As of last Sunday I have lost 21 pounds. My goal is 25 lbs, so I'm almost there. YAY!!!!!
I'm still babysitting, though my hours are gonna change soon. I'm so excited! Right now I babysit 3 kids from 5a.m.-2:30p.m. and soon I'll have them from just 4:00p.m.-6:30p.m. and for the same pay. God is way too awesome!
I was offered a part-time job in my condos doing up violations. I have to be the bad guy but who could resist a part-time job willing to work around my schedule. I like to get out of the house at Ariana's nap time and work. That way she doesn't miss me and my hubby is home just in case she wakes up.
I also took on a part-time job cleaning the swimming pool here in my complex for the rest of this month. I clean it from 9a.m.-11a.m. I bring the kids up to the pool with me and they do activities and play with toys while I clean. My boss usually has a little treat for them because they are all so very good up there.
We put Beau in middle school, a neat little charter school. Hubby and I had been praying about it and felt this is the direction God has us in right now. Beau is loving school, thank God! Ariana is enjoying all this extra attention.
I have been trying out so many new recipes and cannot wait to share some really great recipes with you guys.
I have been wearing out my coupon binder already and am taking notes on some great money saving tips.
I'll be back to my regular blogging by the 23rd of this month. That's when my childcare schedule will change. I can't wait because I've missed all of my Blogger friends so very much and doing this blog with my sister is so very special to us both.
I joined a home fellowship. It's in my complex and you just wouldn't believe how wonderful it is to get together with other believers and learn God's Word in addition to going to church. I LOVE ,LOVE, LOVE my savior and cannot get enough of God's Word and to spend time every week with like-minded people is amazing!

That's it with the updates for now. I'll be back in Blogland soon from my mini "vacation". Thinking of and praying for my dear Blogger friends.

Love,
Amy

Goals of a Homemaker!

2010-08-10T09:13:00.000-06:00

So I was on the phone with my sis (SCH I)and she shared with me a grrreat goal that she has. As you all should know we did coupon binders and as I don't use mine as often as my sis ,she can offer me great advice. One of the things that she told me was when she went to the store she had a goal to save 50%. Also another great tip she has is if a coupon is not about to expire for a while she places it in a particular section and then waits for the store to have a sale,that way you can use the coupon on top of the sale.So she had some really great ways to save. I do have 1 suggestion and it is sometimes if you find a coupon at one store that's better than another ,before going out of your way to get to the store with the good coupon see if the closer store takes competitor coupons. Enjoy!

The Asian Grocery Store!

2010-08-09T10:23:00.000-06:00

I have always been the type of person to try new things. Well I also love getting a great deal so I have a lot of Asian friends who always have a house FULL of groceries. When I asked "how?"the answer was always the same ,"the American grocery stores are more expensive." I have always wanted to go to an Asian grocery store but never had the guts (I stick out like a soar thumb) Well hubby decided He would go with me . I know this may sound corny but that was kind of like a date to me. So here we went into this grocery store and OMG! It was great they did have soooo many great deals and it had a lot more than just groceries in there.So since we had already gone grocery shopping we just grabbed 2 little things we couldn't pass up.Just to give you an idea of the prices; If i went to Walmart for Strawberries I may get a good deal of $4.50 per 1 container ,Aldi $1.49 per 1 container . GW (Asian store) $0.99 per 2 containers. It was like that all over the store not to mention the fresh fish and beef in the back. Oh and they had a Chinese restaurant in the grocery store . I actually talked my hubby into next time we go ,to get Chinese food and he can eat while I do the shopping. It was just great I should have taken pictures but next time. I feel like it was a great learning experience and also a great bonding experience(hey there always room for more bonding) Oh and if you're wondering what we did buy we got 2 high intensity specialty light bulbs for $1.29 @ regular store they are $8.00 and then I got a cute pair of boy-shorts for $.99 where at the regular store they would cost $7.50. I think we did a great job and I will definitely go back.

The dreaded kitchen sink!!

2010-08-05T12:24:00.000-06:00

I am usually not bad at washing the dishes or loading the dishwasher but last night was a different night. Dishes I didn't want to know or hear anything about a dish. I put the dishes on my to do list thinking maybe that would give me motivation. NOPE that definitely did not work.It was funny I have never felt so utterly disgusted about doing the dishes, I mean I made no sense the house was spotless except for those dreaded dishes.Well those who know me know that I keep a very clean home.So last night before I went to bed I tackled those dishes. I sure did the fight was on .The cups oh they were easy for me to take down it was those pots and pans that fought back. I mean they tagged teamed me but in the end I won that battle.It's so funny how I just did not want to clean those dishes lol. Actually I was so tired when I did it, that this morning when I woke up I just knew today was the day to do the dishes,(and I dreaded it.)Than Yay!!!! I realized No dishes there was nothing for me to clean ,I never thought this was possible I mean NOTHING.?. How can I have nothing to clean . Oh well so I'm taking easy today and enjoying every second of it.

Is That FIBER really good for you?

2010-08-03T12:43:00.000-06:00

This is an article I found by Stepfanie Romine on Sparkpeople.com
I usually don't put other articles on here but this was just too good to waste. I hope y'all enjoy She titled it "

Is 'Stealth Fiber' Lurking in Your Foods?

About three years ago, a friend and I were at a natural foods store in the vitamins aisle. I needed more calcium and magnesium, which I take upon my doctor's recommendation to alleviate premenstrual mood swings. While my friend perused the multivitamins, I strolled up and down the aisle, reading labels. Then I spotted inulin, which I'd read was a great source of prebiotics. As a then-frequent sufferer of stress-related GI distress (this was during my "old life"), I was (and still am) a regular consumer of probiotics, those microorganisms found in your gut and in fermented foods like yogurt and kimchi, which can benefit your immune and digestive systems. In short, prebiotics are what feed probiotics. Anything that helps the good bacteria in your gut thrive and flourish sounded like a great product to me. Besides, I had just read that probiotics were the next big thing in nutrition.

I grabbed a jar, shelled out $8.99, and, upon returning home, stirred two tablespoons into water, just as the jar suggested. It tasted mildly sweet but not too bad. Within an hour, I learned the importance of doing your research before buying any supplement! (Who impulse shops at a health food store, I ask?)

My stomach was visibly distended, hard to the touch, and gurgling loudly. I felt as though I had just gorged on Thanksgiving dinner--I was full and bloated. Later on, I had horrible stomach pains that left me doubled over. Forced to cancel my Saturday night plans, I headed to the Internet and read up on inulin, then chucked my jar in the garbage.

A few months ago, I ate a piece of high-fiber flatbread--something I do not eat--for an afternoon snack and ended up with the same symptoms, primarily stomach pains that kept me from a training run! I read the label after the fact, and a type of added fiber was the culprit. Since then, I avoided these ingredients in all quantities. As I recently read, I'm not the only one who has trouble digesting these added fibers.

You might not have heard of inulin, but if you've eaten high-fiber foods--granola and snack bars, breads, crackers, cereals, and even yogurt--that have popped up on the market in the last few years, you've probably eaten a form of it. Inulins, which are a type of carbohydrate considered to be soluble fiber, are increasingly being added to processed foods as "stealth fibers." What's a "stealth fiber"? Any fiber that is added to a food that wouldn't naturally have it. In addition to inulin, products also use polydextrose and maltodextrin, among others.

Found naturally in onions, garlic, jicama, bananas, and wheat, inulin is found in large quantities in chicory root, which makes it a popular source of "stealth fiber" for food companies. It is added to everything from diet fruit drinks to chocolate bars, muffins to breakfast cereals. Some high-fiber snack bars list it as the #1 ingredient, and it is sometimes listed on labels as chicory extract, chicory root powder/fiber, oligosaccharides, or fructans.

With a taste that can range from bland to mildly sweet, food processers use it to replace sugar, fat and flour; it has minimal impact on blood sugar, making it appealing for diabetics. When added to foods, like granola, snack bars, or cookies, it can make them appear healthier than they are.

For some people, the fiber causes no side effects. For others, who either consume large quantities or are sensitive to it like I am, it can cause some mighty unpleasant side effects. Research has shown that inulin may boost the growth of friendly bacteria in the colon, but SparkPeople's Head Dietitian, Becky Hand, warns not to rely on foods like "yogurt fortified with inulin to have the same health benefits as a high fiber diet."

Joanne Slavin, a registered dietitian at the University of Minnesota at St. Paul, recently studied the effects of inulin. After a night of fasting, participants ate a healthy breakfast that included orange juice mixed either with a placebo or with varying amounts of two types of inulin products: native inulin and shorter-chain oligofructose.

"After their 'fiber challenge,' participants were called several times over two days and asked about symptoms such as gas/bloating, nausea, flatulence, stomach cramping, diarrhea, constipation and GI rumbling.

Those that got any dose of inulin generally reported 'mild symptoms'; the highest scores in every symptom except constipation were reported by those who got 10 grams of oligofructose. The findings are in line with previous research that found the short-chain "sweet" inulin causes faster fermentation in the gut leading to more gas and gastrointestinal symptoms.

Flatulence was the most common symptom reported by all subjects who got fiber although symptoms were 'highly variable' among individuals and many subjects did not experience any, the investigators say."

Though considered both a carbohydrate and a type of fiber, inulin isn't treated the same by your body. Carbs are digested and become fuel; insoluble fiber works like a scrub brush to clean the intestines as it passes through the GI tract undigested, while soluble fiber forms a gummy coating on the intestines and helps prevent and slow absorption of various substances, including glucose and cholesterol. Inulin travels undigested to the colon, where the friendly bacteria (probiotics) in your gut feed on them. The probiotics ferment the inulin. The by-product of any type of fermentation is gas, and inulin can also cause diarrhea, bloating, and nausea. Experts say that though added fibers like inulin are called fibers, they don't have the same benefits as the real deal, which is found in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.

This article clarifies the difference between fiber found in whole foods and added fibers:

"The most recently accepted grouping by the Institute of Medicine divides fiber into two categories: dietary and functional. Dietary is the kind found naturally and intact in oat bran, whole wheat, beans, prunes, peas, and almonds, and other plants. Functional refers to both the synthetic variety like polydextrose as well as naturally occurring inulin, which is extracted and purified from chicory roots."

Bottom line: We all need 25-35 grams of fiber daily, and our dietary experts recommend eating a diet rich in whole grains, beans, fruits, and vegetables to reach that goal. If you choose to consume products containing inulin or other "stealth fibers," read up on the side effects and limit the quantity.

I'm not a dietitian or health professional, but I can say that I would rather get my fiber the natural way. While you can get eight grams of fiber (about a third of your daily requirement) from sugar-free jelly beans, should you? One SparkPeople member decided fiber-rich jelly beans sounded too good to be true.

Stay in bed!

2010-08-02T12:38:00.000-06:00

Ok So I feel better now after recovering from my Hot flash lol. (The previous post) I have often been asking myself a question. What do you do when there's nothing to do? Wow that sounds a bit depressing but I 'm asking it because I have been taking the nap train. Lately when I have done most of the things or all of the things on my list(long list of things to do) I take a nap. Yes and that can't be healthy because I wasn't really sleepy ,I hate watching t.v sooo I just napped. I had to get out of that phase. So here are some of the things I do to keep energized during the day.First when I wake up I don't just throw on any old thing, I chose something comfy that I wont mind leaving the house in. Second I decide what I want to eat than before I eat it I make myself do some kind of exercise. (that way the food is like a reward) Then I just carry on with my usual stuff . Whenever I start to feel a little drowsy during the day I go outside. Yep take 1min - as long as I need and just go outside. Like I will play with pooch or take her for a walk or just stand outside if I can't go to far from the house. It's something about that fresh air that wakes you up.(well wakes me up anyways.) Also if all else fails and you are still tired ,make sure most of your duties are done and retire to the bed BUT set an alarm clock to wake you up. (If I must sleep I usually set my alarm for 20-30 min.)Sometimes you are really working your body and don't realize it so a small nap may be in order; Just don't allow it to be regular.Have fun and Stay energized!

SOOOO HOT!

2010-07-30T13:33:00.000-06:00

I haven't felt like doing much today simply because it's pushing 100 degrees!!! It's so hot I took the dog for a walk and nearly passed out ,if only I could get extra points on spark people for Heat LOL.Also my poor pooch looked drained today so I have been feeding her specially made food and plenty of ice water.Which is kinda funny because in the midst of taking care of pooch I forgot my own water. Thank God once again for spark people because it reminded me about my water intake.So if you can't tell I'm am not good in the heat.Oh yeah and my hair was like sweating ,(I didn't even know hair could sweat.) I just had to tell you about my strange experience with the heat today. Plus I can NOT be the only person who is totally thrown off by a massive amount of heat.. AHHHH that felt good now I'm going to take a nice cool shower ,drink some ice water and do nothing for the rest of the day....... Yeah right Now I've gotta finish laundry,cook dinner,clean house and hopefully have time to toss in a quick shower(the life of a Christian Homemaker !!!)

Weight-loss Update

2010-07-29T06:59:00.000-06:00

Just wanted to share with you guys that it's been 3 weeks, last Sunday, since I started watching my calories and I've lost a total of 13 pounds. I am so very excited! What has helped me the most is logging my food daily on SparkPeople . I know how many calories I should be eating and it logs how many I have eaten. I feel great and best of all, there are no food restrictions so I can just eat with my family, in smaller portions :-)

Blessing Journal!

2010-07-28T07:59:00.000-06:00

So I have joined spark people (by referral SchI) It is great but it is showing me some things that I have been really skimping on in my life. One of the things that it tells me to do is keep a fitness journal. So as my sis and I were telling each other about our goals on spark people ,Of course we began talking about how we had been blessed that day and SCH I gave me a great idea! Keep a blessing journal that way anytime I'm down I can look back at the journal and see how great GOD has been and IS in our lives. So fitness and Blessing journal it is.
Enjoy!
Oh BTW here's the first blessing : I was walking home from the pool ,I was hot ,tired and ready to go home. When all of a sudden I here someone call my name .. It's the courtesy officer asking me to help him lug these boxes and bags to the trash.AHHHH I guess so there I go walking to the trash, Then right as he is about to throw away a Brand New unopened 4 pack of wrapping paper . I yelp yes I yelp . He turned around fast and looked me into the eyes with a questionable look. I said you're not about to throw that away ? He said yes but you can have it if you want I reached out and almost yanked it out of his hands. Then he reached into one of the boxes and said if you like that ,you will like this. Then he handed me a large pack of tissue paper.Simple but sweet (plus wrapping paper is expensive.)

Cake mistake!!

2010-07-26T06:55:00.000-06:00

Well as most of you should know by previous post my birthday just fell on the 19th of July. Well it just so happens that I have a close friend who has her birthday on that very same date.So being as money is kind of tight and I am already frugal to begin with I was thinking of what I should give her. I finally decided that a cake would be nice. She had told me in a prior conversation that she was a little upset that no one had made her a cake at work (considering they do a cake for everyone else.) So I was going to do this fabulous fun cake..(you can see a pic on one of the last post) Any who... So cake it is! Well timing was off and she had taken off to celebrate her birthday so towards the middle of the week I decided ,well.... it's only one person I can just give her a piece of the cake I had already made. Good there was only one piece left , I had assigned hubby NOT TO TOUCH!!! In the midst of me worrying about someone eating the cake ;I gracefully place the piece into the fridge.I was to give my friend the cake on Sat so being as it was Friday night I wanted to double check my work. To my terrible surprise I realized that I had placed the cake into the fridge without a cover . The cake is dried out yes DRY!!!! LOL so I told myself make another one it was 11o'clock at night I was not about to bake a cake,wait for it to cool,cut it,decorate it ,and cover it ALL for one person or a bunch a co-workers that didn't care to make her a cake to begin with... Ok that was snotty ..cool off ..where was I ?? Oh yeah so I had gotten a brilliant idea *cupcakes I quickly mixed the batter for cupcakes dumped them into a pan and baked 20 min later cupcakes. Needless to say I rain out of frosting But I had enough to do 4 beautifully fun cupcakes.I placed them in a dainty box and whoola. She loved them and well I got more frosting yesterday so cupcakes are about to be my breakfast, lunch and dinner unless I can find someone to had them off too.

Wish me luck LOL

AND DINNER IS DONE...

2010-07-23T07:24:00.000-06:00

That above is a picture of our dinner for tomorrow night. It's healthy and frugal. Tonight we're having a family meeting at MiMi's cafe using the $100 giftcard we won at a church barbeque. I made dinner ahead of time because I used the leftover crockpot chicken from last night. I'll have the recipe for the herb crockpot chicken in the sidebar, so let me share how I created a new oriental style dinner for tomorrow night; I took a baking dish and poured into it a frozen package of Oriental-Style vegetables then layered it with the leftover chicken which was falling apart from being in the crockpot (I just love how tender meat is when cooked in a crockpot). I added a little ginger, salt and pepper to the top of the chicken. I then cooked up some brown rice to be served with it. I make quite a bit of brown rice each time I cook it because we eat A LOT of it and it's great to eat as sweet rice in the morning. I'll also include the recipe for sweet rice just in case someone doesn't know.

Getting blessed.....

2010-07-22T12:22:00.000-06:00

Well I just received great news from my sis (schI)But first I want to build up the story ,I love doing that!! Ok first I got blessed to have a part time job at the complex pool(making sure everyone in there is abiding by complex policy.)A great job that allowed me to be very flexible with my time,while also making extra money to cover my rent.Well my sis was looking for a part time job but all circumstances were pointing her in the direction of home. (Which makes sense!)So I was very thankful to get a call from my Sis with good news.She got offered the same type of job with her complex and also The manager at the complex loves her personality sooo much that she also asked if she could work another job. Both jobs allow her to chose her own hours as well as take the children with her. I am so excited for her that was just absolutely wonderful news.I just want everyone to look at the many blessing that GOD has allowed in our lives. Also when I am in a hard spot and see no way out I just remember that God always knows a way out (He made the way out ) and in the long run everything will work out better than we could have ever imagined..

Got Instyled....

2010-07-20T07:08:00.000-06:00

Hey everyone I got Instyled in more ways than 1. First my sister (schI) bought me the worlds best cookbook in the world. Number 2 My Hubby got my the Instyler for my hair(a hair accessory that I had been begging for.)I usually do my hair all natural which is a whole bunch of curls. Matter of fact I had never straightened or did anything with my hair. So this was a big day for me.Thank GOD for my sis because she ~~Showed~~ Told me the ropes.LOL Now my hair looks great ,my body feels great and I'm back on track. I know I know it's just a new look but a New look can transform your thinking BIG time! So I'm thinking positive and wondering how much stuff I can get done in one day.BTW yes I am making some wonderful food for my lunch and dinner.(For lunch I'm thinking marinated cucumbers and for dinner cream-sauced pasta with vegetables.

Happy Birthday Sis!!!

2010-07-19T15:50:00.000-06:00

Today is my sister, Alonna's (SCHII) birthday!!!! Yay!!! HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!

Gotta Get On It

2010-07-19T07:36:00.001-06:00

I've been in the land of Neverending Busyness lately (well, the whole summer really). I just LOVE summer. I like hanging out with the kids and not thinking about school work or the usual rest of the year stuff. We've been trying to pack as much stuff into every single day as possible. Don't come over because we've used our mere minutes at home to leave a mess. Yesterday I was thinking how I'm looking around the house and it's NOT looking like a blessed place to be. I thought I'm not gonna sit down and plan out another packed week. I'm gonna use this week to get my house and myself back into shape. I started out by steam cleaning my WHOLE house (it took 5 hours) yesterday. I got up this morning and began making some bran muffins that I have been wanting but haven't had the time to make. While the muffins were in the oven I hopped over to Nan's blog and remembered it's Monday and she does a special post on Mondays. I kept reading and wouldn't you know her post was EXACTLY what I was thinking about this morning. Funny how that happens often at her blog. Anyway, she does this thing called Making Your Home Sing! Monday that you can find here. She talks about how she's gonna be a blessing to her home this week. I had to get involved. I'm just gonna get on it, chores and cooking real food. We've been having picnic fare lately. This week I'm gonna not only get back in the kitchen cooking, back in the gym working out, I've made a chore list of must-dos that I've put off far too long. This week I will: get caught up on laundry, organizing the kitchen pantry, mopping hard floors and cleaning the baseboards. I feel motivated looking at this nice clean carpet :-) Below you'll find Nan's cute little Making Your Home Sing! button

I like to move it move it....

2010-07-14T07:54:00.000-06:00

Yes I like that song it's cute.Anywho I got inspired from SCHIs post about all the things she was doing this summer. That helped me to want to do more ,to be honest I had done so well exercising and keeping up with things before the 4th of July vacation. But....So much has happened since I have been home that I have fallen off of my Get it done train. Well time to get back on track Plus unfortunately for my family I realized that If I'm not happy with the shape I or my house is in than I get pretty grouchy. It's just the truth so in order to keep my family and I in a happy mood I got to stay happy with myself. Whenever I am feeling down I remember something good. Here's 1 thing I can definitely say made me smile. So my pooch was on the porch yesterday and all of a sudden started barking wildly . I knew it was about to rain,so I got on some comfy clothes and was heading out to sit with her(I do that when It rains because I like the rain and it calms pooch.)So as I was heading out the door BANG BANG BANG thunder and Lightening scared the "you know whats" out of me. I told the dog to come on and we spent the remainder of the day enjoying each others company INDOORS! Also as I walked her afterwards she was not trying to get (her precious little paws wet) Yep she's prissy but it's cute. Back to work I go, now that I have my happy thoughts I got things to do,I realized another tip it's hard to spend time feeling sorry for yourself ,If you keep busy and have no time LOL .
Enjoy!

Summer in Pics.

2010-07-13T08:38:00.002-06:00

I have been having the best time with my kids this summer. Anything free or cheap we've done. Beau Jr. has been having a blast with the youth group at church, all three kids are doing swim lessons on Saturdays, we've done farm tours, attended birthday parties, gone to almost every park in the city and so on and so on. Here's a look (in pics.) of some of the things we've been doing

Make an on-line slide show at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Make an on-line slideshow at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Sorry guys, you gotta turn your heads for some of the next pics. My camera went wacky at the amusement park

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Forget me Nots!

2010-07-12T07:46:00.000-06:00

So with all the new things that are going on in my life I have began ~~losing~~ not keeping up with things.It's not even the unusual things I'm losing but the basic things I use everyday.I tried singing to the tune of hokey pokey ...Get my watch now and my keys today ,throw it in my purse and I will be on my way ....But I still forgot and even lost basic things. I mean I'd lay my keys down on a random table.Place my phone down on a bed where it was hopelessly lost within a mess of covers,while I prayed the ringer was turned on. Well the turning point was when I had a business trip......I was scheduled to leave for a business trip on Fri and travel back home on Sunday ,just a quick business trip.Well the trip felt days longer when I was about an hour from my destination and realized I had left my phone back at home.How on earth could I leave my phone at home. So enough was enough; I arrived at home to find my phone laughing in my face on the top of the sofa.I figured it out I found a clear place on top of a counter top ,wrote on a post it note everything that I take on a daily basis and stuck it to the wall in front of the counter.So I know I'll have all my basic essentials, also whenever there is something I don't usually need but need to have that day,I simply lay it by my purse on the counter top.I made a vow that there will be no more forgetting simple things LOL. If you don't have a free spot on a counter find a small table.
Enjoy!

Health and Fitness Motivators

2010-07-10T08:21:00.000-06:00

I just wanted to share some things that are helping me to get on track with my annual health and fitness goals. I have an extremely hard time getting motivated to workout. I feel like I'm way too busy to exercise so I wanted to let you guys in on some motivators...

THE SHRED SISTERS - Those ladies are AWESOME!!!! They are just some average ladies who have committed to working out and are a great encouragers. For me, I like encouragement from regular, down-to-earth people, not some super-human exercise junkies. That's just where I'm at :-)
Spark People - This is an awesome site that's absolutely free. You can keep a food log and keep track of your calories, keep track of your fitness,... This site just has so much to offer. I've been keeping track of my calories on this site and it has been so helpful. The first week I lost 4 lbs. just by eating within my recommended calorie range.
Dr. Phil's Cookbook - Now, I don't too much care for Dr. Phil. I haven't really seen him on T.V. but a few times, but when I did view him he didn't seem to be a very compassionate person. I could be wrong. I'm not really a daytime T.V. person to begin with. But his cookbook has quite a few recipes in it that won't break the bank when you go to buy the ingredients. The recipes are yummy and filling.

A WORK-OUT BUDDY- I have a friend who lives down the street and I go to her house to workout a few times a week. We are both watching our calories and doing pretty much the same things. Also, she has three young kids as do I. The accountability is super helpful. Also, we have standing appointments to workout with one another so there's no getting away from exercising :-)

The Gift

2010-07-08T06:52:00.000-06:00

No I'm not talking about the movie. LOL I am on the other hand speaking about my birthday gift.For those who don't know me, lets just say I do not ever ask for anything on my birthday.I feel like if someone wants to give me something they can without me having to make notice of it.So never the less it has been over 5 years since I have really done anything for my b-day or received a gift.(I was blessed to have my parents come down one year and buy me 2 outfits for work ,which was very sweet.)Ok I'm losing track I do that a lot. I enjoy calling up family or making/buying them the perfect gift.So I was surprised to hear my sis had bought and sent a gift to me!
TO ME! yes I was excited.oh yeah this is funny when the fed ex guy arrived at my house it was 0'dark thirty in the morning.I had on pajamas and my hair was doing a different style on each side(one side was... child who tried to pull hair back and then went on a roller coaster.The other side was ...forget a hair tie just straight Afro.)So guy knocks on the door and I hightail it into my bedroom pull out the 1st pair of shorts I can find run in the bathroom throw water on my hair and answer the door.All that just to close the door and realize The water made my hair worse,and the shorts I chose were very wrinkled and 1 half of my shirt was tucked into my shorts.O well can't win them all.So I was excited to receive my package I was about to open it buttttttt I have this thing where I don't open things ahead of time and since it's not my b-day I didn't want to ruin the surprise.So I wrapped it ,yes I sure did;I wrapped that puppy in some Hot pink wrapping paper wrote a little note to myself and called my sister. Needless to say sis is ~~a little~~ a Lot impatient.She persisted on me ripping open the paper and busting through the box. To no prevail she will have to wait. Heck she only has 11 days to wait ....lol I think she can do it!

You know you're tired when.....

2010-07-07T06:44:00.001-06:00

You know you're tired when.......

You get home so late that you bump into walls.
You eat so much you can't buckle you're pants.
You walk the dog so long you trip over air.
You clean so much you can't stand the smell.
You cook so much you're no longer hungry.
You make so many homemade birthday cards you're seeing spots.

And you know you're tired when just the thought of doing all these things again wears you out......
Just a look into my yesterday!Please let me know ,when you're tired LOL!

Scout Camp

2010-07-06T03:30:00.000-06:00

Bakari is in Cubscouts and having a great time. He's making friends and is having a load of fun. Last month he attended a day camp . I like to be involved in whatever my kids are doing and thought it would be nice to be a Group Leader. Since I was volunteering, the camp allowed me to bring along my other two kids to a "mini-camp" that they did just for children of volunteers. We all had so much fun, including my "mini-campers".

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The Other Man

2010-07-05T08:24:00.000-06:00

THIS IS A HUSBAND APPROVED POST :-)

I caught ya'll off guard with that title didn't I? Let me start off by saying it's not what you think. My dear husband was growing his hair out. He was doing it because he was a little self-conscious about his lack of hair in the middle of his head. The bald spot doesn't bother me at all but when you start growing your hair out it kind of looks as if all the hair your growing is running away from the bald spot. Now, I'm not liking the hair too much. I begged and pleaded with him to get a hair cut. He would not! We went through the whole pinky-promise thing and everything. Still no hair cut! Then he had the nerve to ask me to put his hair in a pony-tail for him. That's where I draw the line!!! Now how could I lovingly let him know that the hair had to go? I went bible on him. I reminded him how his body was not his own and MY (his) hair needed to be cut. He FINALLY agreed to a hair cut. He left to get his hair cut while I stayed home with the kids. You would not believe that I thought a stranger walked through my door when he had gotten back. My husband had gotten his hair cut and looked EXACTLY like when we got married! He was so handsome. I could hardly take my eyes off of him. Everyone complimented him on his hair. He looked like a new man. I told him that he looked so different that when I kissed him it kinda felt like I cheated on my husband with another man. We both laughed so hard. Yeah, he's "The Other Man". He's already everything I could ever ask for in a husband and the his new look is just a little bonus.

keeping it Moving!

2010-07-02T08:50:00.001-06:00

Well I'm sure you probably noticed there was no post for yesterday(heck I just noticed.)So I wanted to tell you all about my wonderfully busy day. First here's what my checklist looked like.

Go to dollar store
Go to bank
Grab toy from toy store
pick up products
meet up with lady for appt.

Easy enough right LOL....But I forgot I have to drop off hubby before I go to pick up products,(products=some dog food,certain vitamins that I take and other necessities I get from 1 particular place)Well I had to place an order first which in turn got lost ,so I ended up losing 2 hours of my time.After that I ran to the dollar store and Needed to hit the bank which was in a totally opposite direction lol. Needless to say I forgot to pick up my nephews birthday present;which reminded me I had to run by the post office and grab a box to mail it.Soooo I ran back out the door and went to the mall,thankfully they had just what He asked for.I drove by the post office and grabbed 2 boxes (1 extra for luck.) Now I rushed back to the house crammed everything into the box ,handcrafted a card and called to confirm my appt.Well the lady had to meet up early so... I cleaned the house as quickly as possible(the one thing my hubby asked me to do.)Unloaded the car of all the products threw a change of clothes in my purse and again ran out the door.I met up with the lady just in time to rush away from there,pick up husband and arrive at a part time job, Whoosh now I'm not complaining I actually loved it, I think because I completed every task that I needed to.I just wanted to let you all know what I did I hope I didn't bore you AND please tell me about your busy experiences.

Enjoy!

Too old for Panty Hose

2010-06-30T10:37:00.000-06:00

So I don't know if I'm the only one with this issue but I doubt it! Here goes so I usually do not wear panty hose unless I have a professional get together or if I feel a skirt is a little too short.So I had a photo shoot to attend and was told to wear panty hose. I had some older ones at home but decided I needed some newer ones so off I went. Man I don't know but either a store didn't have my size,color,material or just plain style that I wanted.I went everywhere ,(I don't even like pantyhose) But I kept looking. It's like everything was getting in the way of me finding some good pantyhose, I mean If I'm gonna buy pantyhose I want to WANT to wear them. Hummm how many times can I say pantyhose lol. I finally grabbed whatever I could find and I tell you pantyhose nowadays are pricey.I got nude color,fishnet,black,blue,shiny any type you can mention I bought,Grand total $65. I thought I did good(yeah right)When I finally got home I had to try them on ,it was crazy.They were too tight,itchy,ugly,skimpy and just plain odd.I found some good ones out of the group but at the end of the day I don't care to see another pair of pantyhose again. DONE ,NADA, NO MORE.!
Of course...... one of the pairs looked kinda cute,another would be great with a suit actually I could find one to use with dresses,skirts,pantsuits,shorts and any other type of clothing....Man pantyhose can't live with them can't live with out them....Oh BTW I found the longest lasting pantyhose come from target I know you would've never guessed but yes Target.Not Dillards,Sears,JC pennys but Target.
Enjoy!

Have a Blast!!

2010-06-29T06:51:00.003-06:00

So I saw my sister riding a Skateboard!!! I can't ride a skateboard(at all,hey I got blond in me!) So as I was listening to her story about going to the skate park and making my own visual image. Wellllll my visual image wasn't nearly as cute as this soooo I decided to make a puzzle out of her picture... Have fun oh yeah when in doubt make a puzzle! Have fun!

Mandarin Camp Fun

2010-06-28T23:43:00.000-06:00

Bakari attends an immersion language school. His study language is Spanish, but his school also offers French and Mandarin. Well, his school was doing a week long day camp in the Mandarin language and we thought what could a little exposure hurt. Anyhoo, he went to camp and had so much fun! The kids even did a performance and his class sang a song completely in Mandarin. Bakari got all the words right but admitted he had no idea what he was singing about :-)

Bakari is the tall one in the back with the blue hat on. He wore a hat that week because he refused to do his hair :-)

ALMOST A PRO-SKATER...NOT :-)

2010-06-27T21:05:00.000-06:00

I try to spend special time one-on-one with each of my kids often. Well, the other day I went out with Beau Jr. He is one active (or is it hyperactive) 11 year old. He decided we should go skateboarding. I think he just wanted to see a free comedy show. I mean really...He's been skateboarding since the age of 3 (yes it was scary to watch at that age) and I'd never EVER placed one single foot on a skateboard. Anyway, it was a blast! Here's the comedy show in pictures

By the way, flip-flops are NOT the best shoes for this sport!

Puppy Toy!

2010-06-25T07:48:00.000-06:00

So I Had made a puppy toy for my dog(Annie) and I was thinking this would be a great thing for other dog lovers to do!If you have read some of my dog post before you will see I make toys for my dog to play with. Well I was having problems with her barking through the night.Every pet lover will know that after a while you can tell what the barks mean. Hers at the time meant "mommy I slept all day and now I want you to play with me.)HAHAHA I am not playing with nobody at 1am,you know not to mention we have neighbors. SO we had to fix it! Well I found out that eating for dogs gives them energy,I should have known that,buuuttt I didn't. Well I was feeding her in the middle of the day which was giving her energy, so when we slept she was wide awake.I tried giving her food in the morning but she wouldn't eat it. So I thought I have to make a game out of this.So I made a toy where the food comes out little by little as she tosses it around.(you've probably heard of something like that) Well I didn't want to buy one from the store so I decided I would make her one and see how it works. So Here's how you make it.
Supplies Needed...
1 empty plastic peanut butter jar
1 Sharp knife, or good hole punch
doggies Favorite food

Directions: Clean out peanut butter jar very well.(I gave mine to pooch to lick out the sides and I clean what she couldn't reach.)
Take a knife and cut a small hole in both sides of the peanut butter jar.(the hole should be a little bigger than 2 pieces of the dogs food.)
Cover the hole with your fingers and fill the container up with food.Close lid and give to pooch.
*Please make sure the holes are smooth so they do not cut your dog. Also this is great because if pooch really has fun and wears it out ,you can make a new one have fun.
BTW This has cured her boredom and has helped her with over and under eating!

Bubble trouble!

2010-06-24T07:57:00.012-06:00

I like this game and My sister is so addicted to it!LOL I know sometimes when you are at home by yourself ,you tend to find unique things to do.Well when I need a break and don't really feel like doing anything to productive I find little games online. I usually play Sudoku but I know everyone will know how to play this.

BubblePop

Online Games

Play Free Online Multiplayer Game - Bubble Popper!

Quick and easy B-day cards!

2010-06-23T06:51:00.000-06:00

So I am always the person who gives you a phone call or e-card to announce your birthday.However recently my family has decided to turn over a new leaf and make me work harder in the process. So I suppose to keep in touch better with each other everyone is requesting and written letter. All I can think is why oh why when we have the internet oh well.... So Needless to say We have a whole sweep of birthdays from June 1st -July 25th!

So my sisters birthday came first and of course the letter was late...but it did arrive.Then off to my niece,2nephews ,another sister,my father in law and oh yeah me. Thankfully I don't have to do one for myself haha!(but I might anyways, I don't like to feel left out LOL) Anywho my niece turned 3 yrs old so it was easy to make her a card. SO that will be the card I'll talk about today. First lay out all your supplies(Mine went missing, so I improvised, which you will see) But get everything ..crayons,pencils,markers,glue,paper everything .
1.) Take a piece of thin poster board(I took the back of a notebook,yep I just ripped it off!)
2.)Now get a piece of white paper.Hold the paper against the poster board and cut off all excess,So the poster and paper are the same size.
3.)Then decorate the paper with whatever you like. I did Happy B-day Ariana! Then I drew a pic of bugs bunny.*If you're not a good artist the paper is white so you can trace something cute.
4.)Color it in ,now you can be creative glue some glitter or place stickers on there be creative. I placed stickers,colored everything in real girlie then drew stars all over the place.
5.)Paste the paper onto the poster board and fold in half.
6.)With a piece of colored paper, cut around the sides to make a decoration.(I had to paint a white piece of paper and I did a swirly design ~~~~)
7.)Write whatever special message you would like on the colored paper and paste inside the card.
8.) Lastly touch it up. If something seems to be missing add it in. (I placed a slot with money, and added some decorations to the back!
Place in envelope and mail!
Like I said this was for my niece,Next are 2 nephews so they will probably get something with a print out on it (they're a little older)
I hope this helped any one and if not maybe just a fun craft for children.
Enjoy!

forever JONES - He Wants It All (live from EMI / Nashville, TN)

2010-06-22T07:27:00.000-06:00

I Love this song I think that it means so much and I'm so glad that someone heard God and wrote this song. So Here is a video for the many few who have not heard the song..

Different Strokes for different folks!

2010-06-21T06:08:00.000-06:00

So I wanted to find out different hings that families did to celebrate Fathers Day. I thought it was interesting to find out the different Strokes. For instance I called up my Father from out of town,To find out that He and my mother had gone out for Breakfast!Then I called my mother in law and father in law,to invite them out to eat with my husband and I.To find out that they cooked food and decided to nap all day!I had also been invited to many BBQs that friends were having.Then there were folks that just disappeared lol No telling what they do to relax.As for my husband and I, we went to the house after church and we had a late late breakfast.I just found it interesting that we could find so many other ways to celebrate. We usually just go out to a nice dinner, but this way was soooo much more relaxing.Now off to a busy day for me . I am going through the entire house today cleaning.Yep Every room is getting cleaned along with the dog getting bathed. I can't wait ,Pray for me I just hope I get all done!

2010-06-20T10:25:00.000-06:00

HAPPY FATHERS DAY!!!!!

Lets talk weight loss!

2010-06-18T12:11:00.000-06:00

Alright you might say I have a little fetish about maintaining a healthy weight but you know what I'm not over weight. Now I'm am going to get detailed and rash,so if you can't handle Please stop reading this post.
I have never had a problem losing a couple extra pounds (it's self discipline) The best way to help you understand what I mean is with an analogy so here goes. As we are little we drink breast milk and gradually begin eating and trying new things until we are older and have seen about every type of food imaginable.It's is instilled in us since Birth to eat either good or bad. We are blessed in our country to have so many types of food and have open access but some people gorge themselves on the unhealthiness.Where in some parts of Africa they have no form of sustenance to the point where they eat mud cookies (video at the bottom.) Again we are taught our eating habits. So now that we have established that I will move right along.
1.)Losing some water weight can be easy to lose as well as easy to put back on.I call this detoxifying the intestines. Drinking plenty of fluids help maintain a healthy water weight. About once every 1-2 months I will only drink water for 2-3 days.
2.)Maintaining a healthy weight, eating a lot of fruits and veggies will help (I know I know it can get boring)switch it up,but I guarantee that if you choose fruit over that sandwich you'll look and feel much better. If I am just craving that burger or whatever it may be , I will grab a piece of fruit first and if still hungry eat the burger or Whatever,(the fruit will help you to eat less,or may even change your initial craving)
3.)Tone it up While eating fruit will help you get to a desired weight you may still wish to tone up. We will call it an extra bonus. Of course you have to exercise Yea I SAID EXERCISE. Please don't waste your time telling me or yourself that you don't have time ,Ill keep it simple Make Time(if you own a t.v,you have time)You don't have to go all out and hit the gym 3 times a week.The majority of my exercise is done right at my house(and NO I don't have a gym in my house)
4.) Motivation I.Y.C.B.M.B.L.A.Y ,Then No one can help you!(definition at the bottom in bold)
It's that simple. As Humans it's our nature to take something simple and make it difficult. DON'T. Get up, stop feeling sorry for yourself and DO something about it. I set my goal for this month , Have You?You can always retrain your thinking.There is No special weight lose pill NO WHERE (so give it up) and remember Fast weight off ,will be fast weight back on. Slow weight off , will be slow weight back on.Have fun changing your lives for the better Oh yeah If You Can't Be Motivated By Looking At Yourself , then no one can motivate you.

I'm A Once A Month Cook Wannabe

2010-06-17T09:14:00.000-06:00

Beau Sr was in the mood to grill (anything that allows him to play with fire) so I started taking meat out of the freezer for him to cook up. I thought since he's already over the grill I'll have him cook up enough meat for about a month. He grilled 2 1/2 pkgs. of hamburger patties and about 50 hot dogs. I had laid out 3 pkgs. of chicken but he ran out of time before we had a birthday party to attend, so once we were home from the party, I boiled all three pkgs. of chicken and placed all the meat in Tupperware containers and put them in the freezer. Now I have cooked hamburgers, hot dogs, and chicken. I like to boil the chicken as opposed to baking it or frying it because once the chicken is boiled it becomes really tender and I can just thaw it out and use it in lots of different recipes, especially good in casseroles. That's more than enough meat for a month. Now if I can only take the time to actually turn that meat into meals I'd be set. Baby steps :-)

Free or Frugal Fun

2010-06-16T08:49:00.000-06:00

The kids and I have been having just so much fun!!! The kind I love-free or frugal. We've taken lots of trips to the library, museums, swimming pools... All this fun for free or very cheap. I entered the kids in the library's summer reading program and right away they received coupons to many different amusements. My two youngest just completed their summer reading and received a free day pass to the amusement park here which also includes a free water park, YAY!!! Beau Jr. is now in the teen reading program so it's taking him a little longer to finish up. I also put them in the reading program with Barnes and Noble and once they've read six books they receive a free book. Bakari has already read his six books so he allowed Beau Jr. to pick a book out instead and then when Beau has completed the program he'll let Bakari choose a book. We're also enjoying trips to local museums that are always free and then museums and the zoo when they have free days. We've been invited to quite a few indoor pool parties which has been nice. We have a set spending amount of $5 for a birthday gift and you wouldn't believe the great things we find in stores like Ross, Dollar Tree, and the $1 section at Target. The kids usually make a homemade card and we reuse gift bags. Sometimes if the bag is plain then I'll have our little artist, Bakari, decorate the bag. The park is always a free and fun place to go. We like to pack a picnic and spend a couple of hours there. The boys will be in VBS in a couple of weeks. Ariana is not old enough for VBS, but since I'm volunteering to help, she gets to attend. YAY for her! VBS is just too much fun to miss! Oh and I almost forgot, we have a free community pool where we live so if we're ever at a loss for what to do we can swim.

COUPON BINDER...a work in progress

2010-06-15T06:02:00.000-06:00

I know you all think I've forgotten about my coupon binder, I haven't :-) I just didn't wanna run out and purchase everything I needed so it's been coming along little by little. You can use a regular 3 ring binder if you don't already have or wanna go out and buy a zippered binder. My sister (SCH II) was gracious enough to send me a 3 ring binder that closes with Velcro. She already had it sitting around at home. Also, I found the baseball card holders at Dollar Tree, a pack of 10 sheets for $1. I picked up some for my sister too :-) I already had a price comparison sheet in my Home Management Binder that I had to transfer. I'm placing the local grocery store ads and coupon books in there also. Here's pics. of the progress:

Post Updates!

2010-06-14T06:30:00.001-06:00

Alright! So there are a couple post that left our readers up in the air. Like "mixed up muffins" I want to let everyone know that the topping was great even though I messed it up a little, but it made it interesting. Here's the recipe to strussle topping (compliments of SchI):
3 tbs brown sugar
3 tbs flour
1/4 tsp cinnamon
2 tbsp butter

Directions: mix all ingredients ,than cut in 2tbs butter at a time, until mixture begins to have a crummy texture. Spread on muffins.(The way I mixed it up, I placed all ingredients in a bowl then heated in microwave for 15-20 sec,stirred it up till it was smooth and spread it on like frosting )Yummmmm!

NEXT I was Teaching Annie (my pup) how to crawl and at first she would be stubborn,but after keeping constant with her Annie crawls around with the best of them. It is so cute because now she will go as far as I want her to.(of course I only will let her go to the other side of the room,crawling is hard work!)It is said that the more you make a dog do, the more the dog feels needed and accomplished . So More tricks are to come. Here is a list of some tricks she can already do on command(I wish I had pics but that confuses the tricks.)
1.)Sit 2.) stay 3.)come 4.)lay down 5.) play dead 6.) halt (before crossing a road) 7.)shake (with both paws,not at the same time. 8.)High five (She gives me five) 9.)jump up 10.) kisses and now we've added crawl . It's really exciting I never wrote down what all she can do and I'm sure I missed a few.You can tell I'm just a proud mommy. Annie has fun too! So get to it pooches need games too!

mixed up muffins

2010-06-11T19:52:00.001-06:00

Alright I was invited to luncheon with some personal friends of mine. They decided it would be a great idea for it to be a covered dish(everyone brings a homemade dish to eat)Well I didn't put that into perspective when I had gone grocery shopping.So I had to think think think... Humm what could I make considering it started at 11am.Muffins (great idea from my mother) So, here I go to make homemade muffins from scratch which unfortunately I have to say is my first time making them from scratch (what those pre made muffin mixes are so darn tempting.) So Here I go calling up my sis(sch1) to help. She gave me some great recipes however the muffins came out completely different. My first muffins were oatmeal{cute,lil and a bit hard}The second muffins were Maple and they came out{ugly, big and soft} Yep see the difference any who The cute ones were a little on the bland side (which allowed my sis(sch1) to remind me they're muffins not cupcakes.)But I thought they should have some flavor lol . The second muffins OH so delicious the only thing is I ran out of ingredients for both of them. So needless to say I will take both different types I'm sure some will like the sweet and some will like the bland. Oh yeah before I forget (sch1) gave me a great recipe for strussle topping I will try and put that on the bland ones.Here's pics of the muffins I'm sure you can tell which is which lol

Introducing Princess Ariana

2010-06-09T09:03:00.000-06:00

I'm sorry that I've been a blog slacker lately. It's summer so I'm out and about everyday and with seven children in tow. It's been a blast! We had celebrated Ariana's 3rd birthday at the reservoir and it was just so much fun! Right now she's all into princesses. We had gotten her a swimsuit with the floaties built in and after she started opening her presents her grandma had given her a princess dress. It was off with the swimsuit and on with the princess dress.