It's been a while since I shared pictures of the girls so I thought I'd show you how cute our "twins" are (for those who don't know, Julia is 3 months younger than Morgan).
Then (2007):
Now!
สล็อตเว็บตรงยุโรป
2 years ago
Saturday, February 28, 2009
Disney on Ice
Last Saturday my sister-in-law Amy, my niece Julia, Morgan, and I went to see Mickey and Minnie's Magical Journey at the Charleston Civic Center. The show was great! We were 6 rows from the ice, just off center stage. The girls were treated to girls dinner out (at Chick-fil-a in the mall) and ice cream during the show! They loved seeing the characters skate around on the ice and Julia would often dance to the music.
Both girls were most excited when, after intermission, TinkerBell made her grand debut...flying no less! Morgan also enjoyed The Little Mermaid part of the show and the pirates/pirate ship during Peter Pan's show.
We all had a great time and the show was decently priced. If you have fans of Disney in your home, I highly suggest you go if you have the chance!
Thursday, February 19, 2009
I LOVE E-FILING!
You may remember a couple weeks ago I did our taxes. I always like to do my taxes early because for the past few years we've gotten a fairly nice refund. (I know Dad, I'm letting the government borrow from me interest free...) This year was the first time I tried doing the taxes online and e-filing. I have to admit I was quite nervous. Even though I do online banking, pay bills electronically, and basically do almost everything online, taxes seemed like a big feat. I mean, we are talking about paperwork for the IRS. Serious trouble if you screw up. And what if they don't get it? Then where will I be?
However, after my mother told me that she did her taxes using Turbo Tax online, I decided to take the plunge and give it a try. If all else failed, I could still print out my taxes returns and mail them in myself (the safe way, or so I thought before this year). So after two hours, multiple reviews of every possible piece of paper I could have in the house, and a minor anxiety attack, I pressed send and e-filed our taxes.
What happened next was surprising, and eased my anxiety fast. I got e-mails from Turbo Tax saying our taxes had been submitted, verified, and accepted by the feds, and both WV and PA tax departments. AND the best part....Tuesday (less than 2 weeks later) I received our refunds direct deposited into our bank account!
I don't know why I haven't done this before, but I can guarantee that I will be using Turbo Tax and e-filing from now on. If you haven't filed your taxes yet, I highly suggest you e-file. Even if you owe (we did in PA) you can set up an electronic payment to be deducted from your bank account on ANY day you want, up to and including April 15th! Easy as pie. Hope you all have as much fun with your taxes this year as I did!
However, after my mother told me that she did her taxes using Turbo Tax online, I decided to take the plunge and give it a try. If all else failed, I could still print out my taxes returns and mail them in myself (the safe way, or so I thought before this year). So after two hours, multiple reviews of every possible piece of paper I could have in the house, and a minor anxiety attack, I pressed send and e-filed our taxes.
What happened next was surprising, and eased my anxiety fast. I got e-mails from Turbo Tax saying our taxes had been submitted, verified, and accepted by the feds, and both WV and PA tax departments. AND the best part....Tuesday (less than 2 weeks later) I received our refunds direct deposited into our bank account!
I don't know why I haven't done this before, but I can guarantee that I will be using Turbo Tax and e-filing from now on. If you haven't filed your taxes yet, I highly suggest you e-file. Even if you owe (we did in PA) you can set up an electronic payment to be deducted from your bank account on ANY day you want, up to and including April 15th! Easy as pie. Hope you all have as much fun with your taxes this year as I did!
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Childless
Patrick and I are childless for a few days. Morgan went to stay with Big Pop and Nannie for a few days because Nannie was having serious grandbabies withdrawal! After dropping Morgan off with Big Pop yesterday, I stopped to do a little childless shopping, which was REALLY nice! Tonight Patrick and I went to the WVU vs. Notre Dame basketball game. It was a little nostalgic for me, taking us back to our college days when we were young and newly in love. After the game we considered going to Texas Roadhouse for 1/2 price appetizers, but decided against it (because it was after 9:00 and we are old! :)
I will admit, however, that I have spent more than a few moments standing in Morgan's room missing her like crazy! It's very quiet around here. I miss her hilarious comments, her infectious laugh, and her nightly snuggles for quiet time. And is it sad that I am excited about going into work EARLY since Morgan isn't here?!?! In any event, I think I am going to take a nice hot bath (without pleas for inclusion in the suds) and go to bed. What on earth did we do before we had Morgan???
I will admit, however, that I have spent more than a few moments standing in Morgan's room missing her like crazy! It's very quiet around here. I miss her hilarious comments, her infectious laugh, and her nightly snuggles for quiet time. And is it sad that I am excited about going into work EARLY since Morgan isn't here?!?! In any event, I think I am going to take a nice hot bath (without pleas for inclusion in the suds) and go to bed. What on earth did we do before we had Morgan???
Monday, February 16, 2009
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Quiet Valentine's Day
After such a busy week, it was nice to have a simple, quiet Valentine' Day at home. Last night we "went out" to CiCi's Pizza Buffet for a fun dinner. It was especially nice for me because I hadn't had a piece of non-frozen pizza for over 2 weeks. This morning Morgan and I got up and let Patrick sleep in. We were rewarded with our early rise with white roses, beautiful pink tulips, a box of candy, and one of the best Valentine's gifts I have ever received...heart shaped doughnuts! My husband really knows what I like :) Morgan also gave me an Alison Krauss CD with the song Baby Mine, a song I have sung to Morgan almost every day of her life. I still sing it to her most nights before I kiss her good night.
We all went to play group and Morgan had a great time, aided by the sugar from the doughnut she ate right before we left the house!
We came home and took a nap. Morgan received her Valentine's gifts from her grandparents and we had a very lazy afternoon.
We had dinner in this year, a first for us I think. Herb rubbed petite fillet, romano parmesan rice, and steamed corn, finished off with a scoop of ice cream. It was delicious, and while I love eating out, it seemed more romantic this year to stay in and enjoy time as a family.
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Jumping on the Random Bandwagon
Since I have been tagged on facebook and blogger to do this numerous times, here it is!
1. I think it would be totally awesome to own a yacht. Not for any particular reason, just because it would be neat. And I would name it Slow Movin’
2. I am allergic to grass and seafood. They both make me break out in hives.
3. I have never smoked in my life. No drugs either. I’m not one of those crazy “Thou shalt never do this” kind of people. Just never appealed to me.
4. I have, however, been addicted to pain medication. It’s not pleasant. After going being forced to go cold turkey from that I can’t imagine ever being addicted to something stronger. Now I am very careful about how much medication I take, and I only take the prescription pain medication I get from my neurologist. I don’t even take Tylenol or similar.
5. If I had money to spend on only one household “luxury” I would hire a chef. That is how much I loathe cooking.
6. My dream job, if I had to work for someone else, would be to work in a federal prison writing parole board recommendations. I got close, once, but was never considered by the warden for the job. I’m still bitter, 5 ½ years later.
7. My real dream job would be to open a Wedding Consultation business with my sister-in-law, Amy.
8. I foolishly thought that I would get a job in my subject field when I graduated with my Masters Degree in Criminal Justice. NOT SO.
9. I’ve been to the top of the Eifel Tower, which is amazing because I am deathly afraid of heights.
10. Some of my favorite paintings in The Louvre are the four seasons painted by Giuseppe Arcimboldo. Summer is depicted with a pickle for a nose, which is why our family dubbed these paintings “The Pickle People”.
11. I’ve been to Disneyland, Disney World, and Disneyland Paris. One more (Disneyland Tokyo) and that will complete the Disney circuit.
12. I love pizza and ice cream. If I could ever justify being fat, that is ALL I would eat.
13. I believe that all US Servicemen and Servicewomen should be treated with more respect than celebrities. I know, I’m slightly partial, but no matter which side you are on, there is no denying that these fine folk lay their lives on the line for us. And they volunteer to do so.
14. I think that uniforms should be mandatory in ALL schools. It is easy to make a uniform policy that every family, regardless of socioeconomic status, could afford. I went to Catholic school, wore a uniform and turned out just fine.
15. I used to think that being a trucker would be lots of fun, because I could eat all the Oreos I wanted to in the car and Mom couldn’t tell me no.
16. I really like to listen to Eminem’s rap music. I know all the words to “Real Slim Shady”. Please don’t judge me for this.
17. My favorite commercial is a Sprint commercial where a rancher said he ordered a hundred oxen but his connection was bad and he got 100 dachshund(s). At the end of the commercial someone yells “Stampede!” and a bunch of dachshund puppies go running across the screen. I laugh EVERY time.
18. I collect music boxes and Pocket Dragons.
19. My daughter saved my life. It’s not important for you to know how or why, but that she did. She is truly my angel.
20. There are two songs that always make me cry: Taps and Amazing Grace.
21. I already know what wording I want to have on my gravesite marker. Is that morbid?
22. Those words are “To love another person is to see the face of God” ~Victor Hugo, from my favorite musical, Les Miserables.
23. I would love to have another child, but I am deathly afraid of loving another child.
24. The best family vacation I have been on was with my parents to the Bavarian region of Germany. My favorite part of that vacation, visiting the German concentration camp, Dachau, where the famous works “Arbeit macht frei” (Work will make you free) are part of the gates. I have never experienced a place so powerful.
25. In high school I went on a service trip to Ukraine. It was lots of fun, even if we sweat our butts off working all day long and could only shower every other day. It was a great experience.
UPDATE: I forgot to tag some friends, and since one of my very good friends asked about it, I am tagging these folks:
Jim at The Risk Family
Melanie at Don't Stop Believin'
Amanda at Isaac
Kim at My Winding Path
1. I think it would be totally awesome to own a yacht. Not for any particular reason, just because it would be neat. And I would name it Slow Movin’
2. I am allergic to grass and seafood. They both make me break out in hives.
3. I have never smoked in my life. No drugs either. I’m not one of those crazy “Thou shalt never do this” kind of people. Just never appealed to me.
4. I have, however, been addicted to pain medication. It’s not pleasant. After going being forced to go cold turkey from that I can’t imagine ever being addicted to something stronger. Now I am very careful about how much medication I take, and I only take the prescription pain medication I get from my neurologist. I don’t even take Tylenol or similar.
5. If I had money to spend on only one household “luxury” I would hire a chef. That is how much I loathe cooking.
6. My dream job, if I had to work for someone else, would be to work in a federal prison writing parole board recommendations. I got close, once, but was never considered by the warden for the job. I’m still bitter, 5 ½ years later.
7. My real dream job would be to open a Wedding Consultation business with my sister-in-law, Amy.
8. I foolishly thought that I would get a job in my subject field when I graduated with my Masters Degree in Criminal Justice. NOT SO.
9. I’ve been to the top of the Eifel Tower, which is amazing because I am deathly afraid of heights.
10. Some of my favorite paintings in The Louvre are the four seasons painted by Giuseppe Arcimboldo. Summer is depicted with a pickle for a nose, which is why our family dubbed these paintings “The Pickle People”.
11. I’ve been to Disneyland, Disney World, and Disneyland Paris. One more (Disneyland Tokyo) and that will complete the Disney circuit.
12. I love pizza and ice cream. If I could ever justify being fat, that is ALL I would eat.
13. I believe that all US Servicemen and Servicewomen should be treated with more respect than celebrities. I know, I’m slightly partial, but no matter which side you are on, there is no denying that these fine folk lay their lives on the line for us. And they volunteer to do so.
14. I think that uniforms should be mandatory in ALL schools. It is easy to make a uniform policy that every family, regardless of socioeconomic status, could afford. I went to Catholic school, wore a uniform and turned out just fine.
15. I used to think that being a trucker would be lots of fun, because I could eat all the Oreos I wanted to in the car and Mom couldn’t tell me no.
16. I really like to listen to Eminem’s rap music. I know all the words to “Real Slim Shady”. Please don’t judge me for this.
17. My favorite commercial is a Sprint commercial where a rancher said he ordered a hundred oxen but his connection was bad and he got 100 dachshund(s). At the end of the commercial someone yells “Stampede!” and a bunch of dachshund puppies go running across the screen. I laugh EVERY time.
18. I collect music boxes and Pocket Dragons.
19. My daughter saved my life. It’s not important for you to know how or why, but that she did. She is truly my angel.
20. There are two songs that always make me cry: Taps and Amazing Grace.
21. I already know what wording I want to have on my gravesite marker. Is that morbid?
22. Those words are “To love another person is to see the face of God” ~Victor Hugo, from my favorite musical, Les Miserables.
23. I would love to have another child, but I am deathly afraid of loving another child.
24. The best family vacation I have been on was with my parents to the Bavarian region of Germany. My favorite part of that vacation, visiting the German concentration camp, Dachau, where the famous works “Arbeit macht frei” (Work will make you free) are part of the gates. I have never experienced a place so powerful.
25. In high school I went on a service trip to Ukraine. It was lots of fun, even if we sweat our butts off working all day long and could only shower every other day. It was a great experience.
UPDATE: I forgot to tag some friends, and since one of my very good friends asked about it, I am tagging these folks:
Jim at The Risk Family
Melanie at Don't Stop Believin'
Amanda at Isaac
Kim at My Winding Path
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
A Quick Update
I'm sorry it's been so long since I posted anything here. We have been so busy over the past week that I haven't had much time to sit down. We continue to be busy this week and through the next. Thankfully the weather has been much nicer over the past week (low to mid 50s) so even if I am stuck indoors, it's nice not to have to slosh around in the snow. So here's a quick update on things that have been going on:
Jen--I was really sick last week Monday evening, Tuesday, and Wednesday. I guess it was some type of flu (even though I got a flu shot) because I was very achy, utterly exhausted, and nauseous. I didn't do much other than sleep for those days. Thursday our sitter called off sick, so I was able to stay home with Morgan and James for the day. It was nice, because I was feeling much better, and I even was able to do our taxes while the kids kindly took an almost 2 hour nap. This week continues to be very busy. As many of my readers know, my 14 year old cousin has been battling a very bad, quick moving illness that required him to be admitted to ICU on Sunday afternoon. I went to spend some time with him Monday and will make the 90 minute drive again tomorrow. I'd like to thank all of my wonderful friends who have been praying for him and our family. His condition has improved some and he is no longer considered 'critical' although he is still in the ICU. Prayer WORKS folks. It really does. We have seen God move in wonderful ways over the past few days and it is all because of prayer.
Patrick--after caring for Morgan while I was sick, I kindly shared the flu with Patrick. He was down and out Thursday evening, Friday, and Saturday. For those of you who know him well, he was so sick he even missed the WVU basketball game on Saturday! That's monumental. This week he has been very busy at work with both of his jobs. We are hoping to have a slightly quieter weekend this weekend.
Morgan--She's doing just fine. She seems to have escaped the crud that Patrick and I had and has been going with the flow over the past few weeks. She's been a little headstrong lately and we have been having to discipline her more often. I hate it, but I don't want the bratty child. Our bedtime routine has gotten less stressful...she seems to be OK with going in her room but often does not fall asleep for a few hours after she goes to bed. Every morning I go into her room and put away 15-20 books that she has in her bed with her. She started play group and loves it. I can't wait for warmer weather so she can go outside. She wants to play outside so bad!
SO that's it from our house. Nothing too exciting, we've just been busy with "life". I hope to get out my camera this weekend to get some updated pictures of our girl. Watch her site for new additions!
Jen--I was really sick last week Monday evening, Tuesday, and Wednesday. I guess it was some type of flu (even though I got a flu shot) because I was very achy, utterly exhausted, and nauseous. I didn't do much other than sleep for those days. Thursday our sitter called off sick, so I was able to stay home with Morgan and James for the day. It was nice, because I was feeling much better, and I even was able to do our taxes while the kids kindly took an almost 2 hour nap. This week continues to be very busy. As many of my readers know, my 14 year old cousin has been battling a very bad, quick moving illness that required him to be admitted to ICU on Sunday afternoon. I went to spend some time with him Monday and will make the 90 minute drive again tomorrow. I'd like to thank all of my wonderful friends who have been praying for him and our family. His condition has improved some and he is no longer considered 'critical' although he is still in the ICU. Prayer WORKS folks. It really does. We have seen God move in wonderful ways over the past few days and it is all because of prayer.
Patrick--after caring for Morgan while I was sick, I kindly shared the flu with Patrick. He was down and out Thursday evening, Friday, and Saturday. For those of you who know him well, he was so sick he even missed the WVU basketball game on Saturday! That's monumental. This week he has been very busy at work with both of his jobs. We are hoping to have a slightly quieter weekend this weekend.
Morgan--She's doing just fine. She seems to have escaped the crud that Patrick and I had and has been going with the flow over the past few weeks. She's been a little headstrong lately and we have been having to discipline her more often. I hate it, but I don't want the bratty child. Our bedtime routine has gotten less stressful...she seems to be OK with going in her room but often does not fall asleep for a few hours after she goes to bed. Every morning I go into her room and put away 15-20 books that she has in her bed with her. She started play group and loves it. I can't wait for warmer weather so she can go outside. She wants to play outside so bad!
SO that's it from our house. Nothing too exciting, we've just been busy with "life". I hope to get out my camera this weekend to get some updated pictures of our girl. Watch her site for new additions!
Tuesday, February 03, 2009
A Lesson in Manners, from Morgan
We've been working on good citizenship and good manners with Morgan from the very beginning of her life. I would say, overall, she has very good manners. Sometimes, though, I wonder if things I say to her are really sinking in.
Last night I learned that in fact, they are. I had raised my voice to the dog because she was getting on my nerves, wanting to be on my lap and barking like a crazy thing. Morgan heard this exchange and came from her room and told me "Mama, that was not nice. You tell Bay you are sorry!". She stood there looking at me, waiting for me to respond. What could I do? She was right...I hadn't been nice to the dog. I said "I am sorry Bay" and Morgan then instructed "Now give Bailey a hug" and would not leave until I did so!
While I was originally slightly annoyed at being told to apologize to the dog, I remembered that this should be a teaching moment and that Morgan had correctly identified a moment when something was not done nicely and it needed to be rectified. It's embarassing to be called on the carpet by your 2 year old, but it was a two-fold lesson for me. First, she is hearing what I am saying, and second, we all need to be cognizant of our tones with others.
I am glad she was able to remind me of that.
Last night I learned that in fact, they are. I had raised my voice to the dog because she was getting on my nerves, wanting to be on my lap and barking like a crazy thing. Morgan heard this exchange and came from her room and told me "Mama, that was not nice. You tell Bay you are sorry!". She stood there looking at me, waiting for me to respond. What could I do? She was right...I hadn't been nice to the dog. I said "I am sorry Bay" and Morgan then instructed "Now give Bailey a hug" and would not leave until I did so!
While I was originally slightly annoyed at being told to apologize to the dog, I remembered that this should be a teaching moment and that Morgan had correctly identified a moment when something was not done nicely and it needed to be rectified. It's embarassing to be called on the carpet by your 2 year old, but it was a two-fold lesson for me. First, she is hearing what I am saying, and second, we all need to be cognizant of our tones with others.
I am glad she was able to remind me of that.
Monday, February 02, 2009
Bringing It Home
So happy to be the first franchise to bring home SIX Lombardi trophies! Way to go Steelers. I think I can finally purchase a Super Bowl t-shirt now...
Sunday, February 01, 2009
Quick Halftime Update
Whew what an exciting end to the first half of the Super Bowl for all of the Steeler Nation! :) I've been rather disappointed with the advertisements this year. Hopefully they are saving the best for the second half. It's a small but fun party here...Patrick's long-time friend Pete and his 18 month old Brady Thomas (Pete is a HUGE Patriots fan if you didn't already know) came by. The kids are having a wonderful time playing and Pete and Patrick have been catching up since they don't get to see each other often.
Even though it's just 5 of us, we still had to put out food! Patrick and I decided to fast all day and not count points this evening...Super Bowl calories don't count right?!
Even though it's just 5 of us, we still had to put out food! Patrick and I decided to fast all day and not count points this evening...Super Bowl calories don't count right?!
The Infamous Smiley Cookies (if you didn't read about these on Morgan's site, be sure to!)
Here's all of us getting ready to cheer on our Steelers!
Celebrating the last play of the first half! WOO HOO!
Monday, January 26, 2009
A New Look!
I decided the blog needed a facelift, and after discovering that we do not own Adobe Photoshop, went trolling for something to spruce up our site. I found a great site that does all the "hard" work for you! If you are not creative, not computer savvy, or just don't have time, check out the site (you can also see the website in the top left corner of the blog) and see if something strikes your fancy!
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Random thought of the day
I actually thought of this a few days ago. What do Chinese people eat for breakfast? You never really see a Chinese restaruant that is open before lunch time. So do the Chinese even eat breakfast?
Keeping Creative Kitchens--Famous Dishes
While cleaning out my personal documents folder at work the other day I came across a PDF cookbook that someone sent me a while ago. In this cookbook there are 478 recipes for dishes that taste just like food from your favorite restaurants. While I can honestly say I have not tried to make any of these (since I just found the cookbook) I thought I would share some of the dishes that I intend to try in the future. If these recipes are good, it may save a lot of money for us down the road! If you are interested in receiving an e-mail copy of the cookbook, leave a comment in the comments section with your e-mail address, or if you already have my e-mail drop me a note. And don't forget to stop over at Alaina's site for more ways to keep a creative kitchen!
1) Girl Scout Mint Cookies
1 box Devil's Food Cake Mix
2 Eggs
2 Tbl. Water
2 Tbl. Cooking Oil
1/2 Cup Cocoa
1 pkg. Chocolate Chips
2−3 drops Wilton's Candy Mint Flavoring
1 box Devil's Food Cake Mix
2 Eggs
2 Tbl. Water
2 Tbl. Cooking Oil
1/2 Cup Cocoa
1 pkg. Chocolate Chips
2−3 drops Wilton's Candy Mint Flavoring
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Combine cake mix, eggs, water, cooking oil, and cocoa. You will need to blend this together well, this will be a very sticky mess. Let stand for 20 minutes, and then shape into very small 1/2 inch balls. Place these balls on a cookie sheet 2 inches a part,
and smash down flat. You will need to spray a large spoon with Pam to make them flat. Bake for about 8 minutes. Let cool until they reach room temperature.
Heat chocolate chips in either the microwave, or in a double boiler. When completely melted add a couple drops of the mint flavoring. Be carefull not to add too much, it is a powerfull flavoring.
You can either spread the melted chocolate on the cookies, or you can dip the cookies into the chocolate.
2) Hershey's Chocolate Syrup
1/2 Cup Cocoa
1 Cup Sugar
1 Cup water
1 tsp. Vanilla
dash of salt
Combine cocoa, sugar, and salt in a saucepan. Add water, and mix until smooth. Bring this mixture to a boil. Allow it to boil for one minute, be carefull this does not over boil. Remove from heat, when this cools add the vanilla.
3) Olive Garden House Dressing (this will be on the top of my "Try It" list!)
8 ounces Paul Newman's Vinegar and Oil Dressing
1 clove garlic, peeled and minced
1/2 teaspoon Dried basil
1/2 teaspoon Dried oregano
3 packages Sweet and Low −− or 1 tablespoon Sugar
Put ingredients into the bottle of dressing and shake well. Refrigerate 24 hours before using.
4) Outback Steakhouse Steak Seasoning
Mix together:
1 envelope Taco Seasoning Mix
1 envelope Good Seasonings Italian Dressing Mix
Pierce steaks in several places with tines of fork. Rub in oil and dust in seasoning mixture. Then pour Coca Cola (Diet or Regular) around steaks in deep plastic or glass container and seal with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for 24 hours. Drain, and grill or broil as you wish.
5) York Peppermint Patties
1 (14−ounce) can Eagle Brand Sweetened Condensed Milk
1 tablespoon peppermint extract
green or red food coloring, optional
6 cups confectioners' sugar
Additional confectioners' sugar
1 − 16 oz. bag semi−sweet chocolate chips
In large mixer bowl, combine Eagle Brand, extract and food coloring if desired. Add 6 cups sugar; beat on low speed until smooth and well blended. Turn mixture onto surface sprinkled with confectioners sugar. Knead lightly to form smooth ball. Shape into 1−inch balls. Place 2 inches apart on wax paper−lined baking sheets. Flatten each ball into a 1 ½−inch patty. Let dry 1 hour or longer; turn over and let dry at least 1 hour. Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave set on high for 2 minutes. Stir halfway through the heating time. Melt thoroughly, but do not overheat. Melting the chocolate chips can also be done using a double−boiler over low heat. With fork, dip
each patty into warm chocolate (draw fork lightly across rim of pan to remove excess coating). Invert onto wax paper−lined baking sheets; let stand until firm. Store covered at room temperature or in refrigerator.
It's Official!
On January 22, 2009 I am eating my first Cadbury Creme Egg of the year! This has got to be my single most favorite candy in the world (now that's saying something!). I am loyal to the original egg, not those new-fangled orange or caramel filled eggs. It used to be that these precious candy gems would only appear shortly before Easter. Now that retailers and Cadbury manufacturers have gotten completely out of hand with super-early holiday promotions (i.e. Valentine's Day candy displayed in stores on December 26th, I kid you not!), I can enjoy these much longer. I remember last year my first one was in February, which I thought was pretty early. This year makes the earliest I have had a fresh Cadbury egg! And I wonder why I have problems with my weight! :) Does anyone know how many Weight Watchers points one Cadbury egg is?
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Reflections on History
Today we have all witnessed a momentous occasion. One that history books will forever encapsulate. One that had nothing to do with war, death, or destruction. Today we saw a peaceful change in power in our country. I believe that every presidential inauguration is monumental, but this one, for obvious reasons, will be more memorable than most.
For me, this is the first inauguration I have watched. Most of you who know me know that I am hardly political. In fact, I let most politics play out while I stay naiveley in the dark. I don't care who the new CIA director is, or who the President has chosen for Secretary of whatever office. That may amaze some of my friends, others feel the same way. However today, one that will be written about forever to come, I felt I needed to witness history first hand, not on YouTube later. What I saw was a great affair, with all the necessary but not overdone pomp and circumstance. And while we may not all agree with the choice of the people, it is because of that choice that our country is so great.
As I listened today to one of the most powerful men in the country give his first speech as President, I said a prayer. I pray that the new president will keep God in the center of every decision that he makes. I prayed that he will keep his family close and stay active in their lives. Like the opening prayer, I prayed that God will give the President wisdom to lead with humility, and I prayed that God keep him safe. I believe that God will write history in the coming years and that we will be witness to some great things, both good and bad.
I also reflected on how great technology is that I could watch the president give his inauguration speech LIVE, in my own office, hundreds of miles away. Thinking back to the not so distant past, when JFK was shot most people learned of it by radio. When the Challenger exploded, we were all herded into gymnasiums to watch it and the aftermath on a single TV. While I am not now nor ever will be a fan of the press, I am glad I had the opportunity to see what I saw today through the use of media and technology.
On a lighter note, as I watched I thought of many random little things that I feel the need to share. I hope you all had a chance to watch today's events because we are all now part of history.
Random Thoughts Between 11:30 and 12:30:
1) What is the rain plan for the inauguration? Surely they don't do it outside?!
2) Why do we hold the inauguration events in one of the coldest months of the year? Why not May? (I am sure there is some historical reason that my friends are going to inform me of later, but that's why I ask!)
3) How cool would it be to be a young child living in the White House? The Obama girls are old enough to understand and appreciate what today means, and dude, they live in the WHITE HOUSE!
4) Along the same vein....do you think Jenna Bush's husband felt intimidated when he want to the President of the United States to ask for his daughter's hand in marriage? And Patrick thought he had it rough....
5) Aretha Franklin's wardrobe person needs to be shot...that bow was way over the top.
6) I was reading an article today that says that the Obama girls will be scrutinized for everything they say and do in the coming years. This article even went so far as to say that if either girl gets a bad grade on a test that it would be front-page news. My question is WHY?!?! These girls are just that--girls. There are going to be days that they do poorly on tests, fight with their best friends, say something mean to one another. That merely proves that they are human, just like the rest of us. Why do the press feel the need to elevate these girls beyond their years, hold them to standards they don't hold to their own kids, and even worse, REPORT ABOUT IT?! Here's where my rant against the media could start, so I'll step down from my soapbox now before it gets ugly.
7) Finally, I couldn't help but compare today with a wedding. Both the "bride" and "groom" were up early, preparing for the day. Both had huge smiles and waved at a LOT of people. Only one had to say vows, during which he was visibly nervous, but happy (hmmm...remind you of anyone?), There are many celebrations planned after the event and the entire day was about them.
For me, this is the first inauguration I have watched. Most of you who know me know that I am hardly political. In fact, I let most politics play out while I stay naiveley in the dark. I don't care who the new CIA director is, or who the President has chosen for Secretary of whatever office. That may amaze some of my friends, others feel the same way. However today, one that will be written about forever to come, I felt I needed to witness history first hand, not on YouTube later. What I saw was a great affair, with all the necessary but not overdone pomp and circumstance. And while we may not all agree with the choice of the people, it is because of that choice that our country is so great.
As I listened today to one of the most powerful men in the country give his first speech as President, I said a prayer. I pray that the new president will keep God in the center of every decision that he makes. I prayed that he will keep his family close and stay active in their lives. Like the opening prayer, I prayed that God will give the President wisdom to lead with humility, and I prayed that God keep him safe. I believe that God will write history in the coming years and that we will be witness to some great things, both good and bad.
I also reflected on how great technology is that I could watch the president give his inauguration speech LIVE, in my own office, hundreds of miles away. Thinking back to the not so distant past, when JFK was shot most people learned of it by radio. When the Challenger exploded, we were all herded into gymnasiums to watch it and the aftermath on a single TV. While I am not now nor ever will be a fan of the press, I am glad I had the opportunity to see what I saw today through the use of media and technology.
On a lighter note, as I watched I thought of many random little things that I feel the need to share. I hope you all had a chance to watch today's events because we are all now part of history.
Random Thoughts Between 11:30 and 12:30:
1) What is the rain plan for the inauguration? Surely they don't do it outside?!
2) Why do we hold the inauguration events in one of the coldest months of the year? Why not May? (I am sure there is some historical reason that my friends are going to inform me of later, but that's why I ask!)
3) How cool would it be to be a young child living in the White House? The Obama girls are old enough to understand and appreciate what today means, and dude, they live in the WHITE HOUSE!
4) Along the same vein....do you think Jenna Bush's husband felt intimidated when he want to the President of the United States to ask for his daughter's hand in marriage? And Patrick thought he had it rough....
5) Aretha Franklin's wardrobe person needs to be shot...that bow was way over the top.
6) I was reading an article today that says that the Obama girls will be scrutinized for everything they say and do in the coming years. This article even went so far as to say that if either girl gets a bad grade on a test that it would be front-page news. My question is WHY?!?! These girls are just that--girls. There are going to be days that they do poorly on tests, fight with their best friends, say something mean to one another. That merely proves that they are human, just like the rest of us. Why do the press feel the need to elevate these girls beyond their years, hold them to standards they don't hold to their own kids, and even worse, REPORT ABOUT IT?! Here's where my rant against the media could start, so I'll step down from my soapbox now before it gets ugly.
7) Finally, I couldn't help but compare today with a wedding. Both the "bride" and "groom" were up early, preparing for the day. Both had huge smiles and waved at a LOT of people. Only one had to say vows, during which he was visibly nervous, but happy (hmmm...remind you of anyone?), There are many celebrations planned after the event and the entire day was about them.
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Monday, January 12, 2009
New Contributor
After 250 posts by myself, Patrick has decided to join the blogging world and contribute to this blog! Just remember that posts written by the author are strictly the views of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the company (isn't that how it goes in those disclaimers when you watch the "extras" on DVDs?).
So look for some of Patrick's insights, opinions, and comments posted right here in the future! Welcome to the blogging world honey!
So look for some of Patrick's insights, opinions, and comments posted right here in the future! Welcome to the blogging world honey!
Sunday, January 11, 2009
30 by 30
Months to go: 2
Pounds to go: 18
I have gotten back on track, after stalling for a couple months. While 30 pounds may not be feasible, I still have that as my ultimate goal, with 20 pounds as a interim goal. On my birthday I will declare my new weight goal, set this week.
**This is my 250th post on this blog....fitting it would be about something important to me!**
Thursday, January 08, 2009
Keeping Creative Kitchens--Christmas presents and After-Chrsitmas Steals
Since those of you who know me best know I am not a kitchen whiz, I have always stayed away from asking for "kitchen-y" items for celebrations. This year, however, I was surprised with a few neat items that I would have never bought for myself but I am very glad that I have in my kitchen now.
This mini-bundt pan was a real surprise gift from my husband's grandmother and grandfather. It is great for me, as I continue to work on losing weight with Weight Watchers, to have smaller options for cake. I am not the type of person who can leave cake alone. If it's in the house, I WILL eat it. With this pan, I can be a little more fancy than cupcakes and enjoy an "entire" cake while not feeling guilty. Plus after feeding the rest of the crew here, I can ship the rest of the cakes out to Patrick's friends, who are always happy for home-baked goods.
I also received a Wilton Cupcake Stand that I have looked longingly at for over a year. I felt a little silly putting it on my Christmas "wish list" but as they say, ask and you shall receive! My aunt was kind enough to indulge my fun side with this surprise gift. Ever since I opened it, Morgan has been asking to make cupcakes. Tonight I agreed and she excitedly added the ingredients, stirred, and lined the pan with the cupcake liners. After she went to bed I iced the cupcakes and put them in the display stand to surprise her in the morning when she gets up.
************************************************************************************
Another way to keep some fun items in your kitchen, don't overlook the food section of after holiday sales. Sure, mostly they are filled with boxes of chocolates and tins of cookies, but trust me, you will find some great purchases to put in your kitchen, or come from your kitchen.
The best kitchen purchase I got this year were these three cans of Wilton icing with icing tips for 50 cents each. Yes, you read that right...WILTON-ICING-50-CENTS! Sure, they are red, green, and white, but those colors can be used in ANY decoration, not to mention Valentine's Day and St. Patrick's Day which are coming up soon. This icing will keep for practically forever, and if you have older children it is a great way to let them help with the decorating without costing a ton for the frosting that will be in their hair, mouths, on fingers, shirts, chairs, etc.
I also like to look for items that can be given as gifts later. Purchases like these freeze-dried coffees will also keep for a very long time, and I will be turning these into 3 gifts along with a coffee mug from the Dollar Tree and some free Coffee-Mate flavored creamers that I always load up on when I go into Sheetz gas stations to get my husband coffee (for the record, he drinks his coffee black, but they don't know that!). Grand total for 3 gifts...$3 for the coffee mugs and $2.50 for the coffee at 75% off = $5.50. For three gifts!
Another gift I picked up for Patrick's grandfather was a cute little cutting board, mini butcher knife, crackers, mustard, and sausage set. Patrick's grandfather loves these types of sausage (Hickory Farms or similar) and all I had to do was peel off a Christmas tag sticker. Voila, birthday for Ralph is done!
Thanks to Alaina for hosting Keeping Creative Kitchens! Be sure to stop over at her site and see more ways to keep a creative kitchen.
Pink and Brown Day!
Today, in honor of the first birthday of a very special miracle, Gwyneth Rose, her dad, Nate, asked everyone who has followed their journey to wear pink and brown to celebrate Gwyneth's first birthday. Morgan and I joined in the worldwide internet celebration (although I decided not to include a picture of my outfit...you'll have to take my word for it). Gwyneth was born at 24 weeks gestation (that's 3-4 months EARLY for the uninitiated) and her mom, Tricia, has Cystic Fibrosis. Theirs is an amazing journey of love, strength, and faith in the Almighty Lord. So happy First Birthday Gwyneth! You are a very special girl, with very special parents. God has blessed you all and we continue to pray that He will be with you in the years to come. Thank you to your parents for allowing the world to be a part of your life.
Monday, January 05, 2009
Goals for 2009...Resolutions in fact!
Resolutions, life goals, focusing on self, whatever you want to call them, 'tis the season to reassess where we have been and what we want to focus on for the new year. This year is no different. There are so many things I constantly think of that need to be accomplished, started, or finished. In order to keep things simpler for me, I'll list the major goals that I have for the coming year.
*PERSONAL*
1) Put emphasis on exercise, every day. I will be working this year to get back to a healthier lifestyle. I believe this has to include exercise. My biggest problem is changing my thinking about what "exercise" really is. To me it's time in the gym, working out in a specific setting. But really, a 30 minute walk with Morgan is exercise, and I need to see it as such. I usually think "well I didn't make it to the gym today, so what's the point?" and that hasn't gotten me anywhere. So this year there will be an emphasis on making exercise part of every day life, and mixing it up so the gym is not the only place I can exercise!
2) Take 20-30 minutes every day to do something for myself. As a mom, wife, and professional in the workforce, I hardly have any time that is not accounted for during the day. If there is spare time during the day, I almost always focus on doing things for others. While that is a great trait, I think my mental health will be better if I focus a little bit on centering myself and doing things that I enjoy...even simple things like taking a bath or reading. I always feel better if I get a few minutes of down time.
*SPIRITUAL*
1) Be diligent about going to church and deepening my faith. With all that has been going on in my life over the past year, I admit that I haven't been going to church as much as I need to. I know that I always feel better when I do attend church. I want to focus on my relationship with God so that I may show my daughter how wonderful it is to have a relationship with God.
2) Find a good devotional aid to have more meaningful daily time with God. I am struggling to find something to assist me that relates to me as a person. If you have any good suggestions, I'd love to hear them.
*FAMILY*
1) Give Morgan 20-30 minutes of child-directed play with Mama daily. When we get home from work/day care I normally focus on getting the housework done, starting dinner, etc. I realized over the past few months that I hardly spend any time interacting with Morgan, which is something I deeply desire and it makes me very sad that I have wasted so many weeks that I could have been interacting with her. Sure I include her in dinner making, we do her bath together, and I talk to her, but I never get on the floor and let her control all the activities for some time. Now that she is old enough to want me to play with her, I am going to give it to her! I think this will help my mental health as well.
2) Give date night a try. We may not be able to jump right in to once a week like my friends Alaina and Catherine, but I would like to focus some on our marriage and each other, rather than just existing as people living in a household. My friends say this is vital to their marriages, and I know it would do wonders for our relationship as husband and wife, rather than mom and dad, or professional worker and professional worker.
3) Continue to work on manners and citizenship as we prepare Morgan for pre-school in the fall. While I don't think pre-school is important for SCHOOL-BASED learning, I think Morgan will thrive in an environment with her peers. She rarely spends time with kids her age. As an only child she gets only adult interaction at home and while with Ms. Ellen she is with James, who is her best pal, and just over 1 year old. She loves to learn and play with kids in social settings, like at the park, and I think she will love pre-school.
Some tall orders to work on for this year, but with a plan in mind, hopefully this year will run smoothly and at the end of 2009 we can reflect on the things we accomplished this year. Happy New Year!
*PERSONAL*
1) Put emphasis on exercise, every day. I will be working this year to get back to a healthier lifestyle. I believe this has to include exercise. My biggest problem is changing my thinking about what "exercise" really is. To me it's time in the gym, working out in a specific setting. But really, a 30 minute walk with Morgan is exercise, and I need to see it as such. I usually think "well I didn't make it to the gym today, so what's the point?" and that hasn't gotten me anywhere. So this year there will be an emphasis on making exercise part of every day life, and mixing it up so the gym is not the only place I can exercise!
2) Take 20-30 minutes every day to do something for myself. As a mom, wife, and professional in the workforce, I hardly have any time that is not accounted for during the day. If there is spare time during the day, I almost always focus on doing things for others. While that is a great trait, I think my mental health will be better if I focus a little bit on centering myself and doing things that I enjoy...even simple things like taking a bath or reading. I always feel better if I get a few minutes of down time.
*SPIRITUAL*
1) Be diligent about going to church and deepening my faith. With all that has been going on in my life over the past year, I admit that I haven't been going to church as much as I need to. I know that I always feel better when I do attend church. I want to focus on my relationship with God so that I may show my daughter how wonderful it is to have a relationship with God.
2) Find a good devotional aid to have more meaningful daily time with God. I am struggling to find something to assist me that relates to me as a person. If you have any good suggestions, I'd love to hear them.
*FAMILY*
1) Give Morgan 20-30 minutes of child-directed play with Mama daily. When we get home from work/day care I normally focus on getting the housework done, starting dinner, etc. I realized over the past few months that I hardly spend any time interacting with Morgan, which is something I deeply desire and it makes me very sad that I have wasted so many weeks that I could have been interacting with her. Sure I include her in dinner making, we do her bath together, and I talk to her, but I never get on the floor and let her control all the activities for some time. Now that she is old enough to want me to play with her, I am going to give it to her! I think this will help my mental health as well.
2) Give date night a try. We may not be able to jump right in to once a week like my friends Alaina and Catherine, but I would like to focus some on our marriage and each other, rather than just existing as people living in a household. My friends say this is vital to their marriages, and I know it would do wonders for our relationship as husband and wife, rather than mom and dad, or professional worker and professional worker.
3) Continue to work on manners and citizenship as we prepare Morgan for pre-school in the fall. While I don't think pre-school is important for SCHOOL-BASED learning, I think Morgan will thrive in an environment with her peers. She rarely spends time with kids her age. As an only child she gets only adult interaction at home and while with Ms. Ellen she is with James, who is her best pal, and just over 1 year old. She loves to learn and play with kids in social settings, like at the park, and I think she will love pre-school.
Some tall orders to work on for this year, but with a plan in mind, hopefully this year will run smoothly and at the end of 2009 we can reflect on the things we accomplished this year. Happy New Year!
Thursday, January 01, 2009
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