Well, I have to let myself off the hook and realize that blogging everyday is just not going to happen. I need time to think, plan, and write; unfortunately, this is a rare commodity! Today is MLK holiday, so I'm home with Austin and minimizing our options for our day off. We are leaning towards the Long Beach Aquarium! Full of colorful fish, different regions displaying cool aquatic areas, it's full of learning and fun.
Tonight I will make a simple spaghetti and meatball dinner, but I am going to tackle a real Caesar salad - down to the anchovy! I am going to buy a sourdough baguette and slice it into pieces. Oil both sides and bake in an oven for 5 minutes, then top with grated parmesan cheese baking for 10 - 12 minutes until cheese melts. These crisps will lay on top of the romaine lettuce in the salad bowl. The dressing will be 9 anchovy fillets, 4 tsp. minced garlic, salt, pepper, and 1/3 c lemon juice blended in the food processor or blender. With just the inner romaine lettuce leaves remaining whole, I'll drizzle the dressing over the leaves and top with the crisps and curls of parmesan.
Last night Todd and I went to see a guitarist, Joe Satiorini. I'm sure I just butchered his last name, but I really don't know who he is. Although, he is a great guitar player! It was held at the Orpheum Theater in downtown Los Angeles. I was impressed with Joe's ability to play, but I was more impressed with the architecture of the theater. Built in the 1920's, it was amazing with marble walls, ornate ceilings, custom seating everywhere and elegant chandeliers hanging from all the ceilings. Beautiful.
With a busy calendar month, I'm trying hard to keep on track with my menus! Inspiring recipes and new dishes always make squeezing in a delicious dinner more enjoyable!!
Happy Cooking!
Monday, January 17, 2011
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Cleaning House
This week I have been pondering one scripture more than any other: Psalm 51:10. Create in me a clean heart, O God, And renew a steadfast spirit within me.
I am a fanatic when it comes to my house and classroom. I don't like clutter at all. This week I began thinking about the state of my heart. Are there any areas of resentment or anger that have built up? Am I jealous or envious of someone else's life? Do I harbor any ill feelings toward someone?
I want to be diligent in asking the Lord to show me if there is any "cleaning" that needs to take place in my heart.
Thank you Lord for being patient and loving with me as I fall short in my reactions and words on a daily basis. Your goodness and mercy are forever. Amen.
I am a fanatic when it comes to my house and classroom. I don't like clutter at all. This week I began thinking about the state of my heart. Are there any areas of resentment or anger that have built up? Am I jealous or envious of someone else's life? Do I harbor any ill feelings toward someone?
I want to be diligent in asking the Lord to show me if there is any "cleaning" that needs to take place in my heart.
Thank you Lord for being patient and loving with me as I fall short in my reactions and words on a daily basis. Your goodness and mercy are forever. Amen.
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
Tuesday's Top Five
Staples Needed in the Kitchen
Cooking for me is hard if I don't have a plan. It's even harder if I don't have what I need in the pantry! Ask my husband and he will tell you that I am notorious for always missing at least one ingredient when I cook. That is why last night I made orzo instead of couscous. I could have sworn I had couscous.
Anyway, these ingredients make it a lot easier to create a meal if all else fails, and I usually will include them at some point in the week!
1. Pasta. I have a variety at any given time to choose from. Spaghetti, fetticine, penne, are just a few that you can create so many dishes: pasta with sauce, soups, casseroles, side dishes. It goes on sale regularly, so costs are huge. Big bang for the buck.
2. Ground turkey or a bag of frozen chicken breasts. I stock up in the freezer when these go on sale.
3. Chicken and beef stock. Great to make gravy, add liquid to a pasta dish, base for a soup, add to a roast for liquid and flavor, etc...
4. Cream of Mushroom soup. Randomly I pick recipes that need this ingredient. It's nice to have on hand.
5. Olive oil and canola oil. Every recipe calls for either one or the other. Olive oil for all my pasta dishes; canola oil for all high heat purposes.
Happy cooking!
Cooking for me is hard if I don't have a plan. It's even harder if I don't have what I need in the pantry! Ask my husband and he will tell you that I am notorious for always missing at least one ingredient when I cook. That is why last night I made orzo instead of couscous. I could have sworn I had couscous.
Anyway, these ingredients make it a lot easier to create a meal if all else fails, and I usually will include them at some point in the week!
1. Pasta. I have a variety at any given time to choose from. Spaghetti, fetticine, penne, are just a few that you can create so many dishes: pasta with sauce, soups, casseroles, side dishes. It goes on sale regularly, so costs are huge. Big bang for the buck.
2. Ground turkey or a bag of frozen chicken breasts. I stock up in the freezer when these go on sale.
3. Chicken and beef stock. Great to make gravy, add liquid to a pasta dish, base for a soup, add to a roast for liquid and flavor, etc...
4. Cream of Mushroom soup. Randomly I pick recipes that need this ingredient. It's nice to have on hand.
5. Olive oil and canola oil. Every recipe calls for either one or the other. Olive oil for all my pasta dishes; canola oil for all high heat purposes.
Happy cooking!
Mondays menu
I made the spicy Morrocan Chicken last night, and it was a hit! It was so simple, too!
In a small bowl, I combined cinnamon, cumin, coriander, turmeric, cayenne pepper, salt & pepper with olive oil to make a paste. I preheated the oven to 450 and placed a tray with a rim on the center rack to heat. After washing the chicken legs and thighs, I rubbed the paste all over them. Next I placed all the chicken on the heated pan and put it back in the oven for 35 minutes. I roasted the carrots on the top rack for 20 min after tossing them in olive oil, salt & pepper. Really good - comment me if you'd like exact measurements!
In a small bowl, I combined cinnamon, cumin, coriander, turmeric, cayenne pepper, salt & pepper with olive oil to make a paste. I preheated the oven to 450 and placed a tray with a rim on the center rack to heat. After washing the chicken legs and thighs, I rubbed the paste all over them. Next I placed all the chicken on the heated pan and put it back in the oven for 35 minutes. I roasted the carrots on the top rack for 20 min after tossing them in olive oil, salt & pepper. Really good - comment me if you'd like exact measurements!
Friday, December 31, 2010
BJ's
In about an hour, we are all going to BJ's pizza restaurant (Kalie's work) for dinner. Since she just got transferred to this location, I guess that means "low man on the totem pole" and she got the New Year's Eve shift. Well, we will keep her company!
Sunday, we will be going to La Palapa, Kalie's wedding site, to bring centerpieces and hopefully meet with the DJ. We want to see how the tables will look with our Pier I purchases. I plan on taking photos, so I'll show you next week. The DJ needs to center the K & J initials that will be projected onto the dance floor.
Kalie chose La Palapa for a few reasons.
1. Jeremy wanted to be married ON THE SAND. Not next to the sand, not looking down from a cliff to the sand, not looking at sand through a window of a church. ON.THE.SAND!
La Palapa has a beautiful runner that extends from the sidewalk area onto the sand and ends under palm trees with a gazebo. Chairs are set on each side (bride's side and groom's side) of the runner. Their feet will never actually touch sand. They will be on the runner. Mine however will. Not thrilled. I'm still trying to figure this situation out. I guess I could supply sandals in a beach tub for guests, or maybe offer hot towels to wipe their feet after the ceremony, or pretend we are really not on actual sand and simply smile a lot. Still working this situation out.
2. Kalie did not want anyone to have to travel from wedding site to reception site. La Palapa is a funky bar type restaurant on the beach in Long Beach. CUTE, CUTE, CUTE. My girlfriends and I have spent many a night there having a rip roaring time. When my mom told me that a friend of hers attended a wedding there, I was significantly puzzled. My mom said the reception was upstairs. What I recalled was a tiki style rooftop with no stairs anywhere in sight. However, when Kalie and I made an appointment to see the reception spot, we went outside to stairs that ran along the side of the building. Intriguing. Elizabeth, owner and coordinator, opened the double doors and both Kalie and I took a collective gasp. BEAUTIFUL. Simply gorgeous. A full bar as you walk in, a "cigar or international coffee room" to the left, down the wide foyer hall was a beautiful gazebo with crystal chandelier that the wedding cake sat under. The ballroom had a gigantic crystal chandelier with red and ivory swags that started in the center of the ceiling above the dance floor and extended the wall. Unbelievable. The floor to ceiling windows overlooking the shoreline and Queen Mary was gorgeous. Everywhere were European looking armoires, wing backed chairs, and beautiful wood. Stunning. We signed the contract that day!
3. Both Kalie and Jeremy were born and raised in Long Beach. This is a Long Beach wedding! 90% of our friends and family all live in Long Beach. We are using as many local vendors as possible. We love our little hometown! Their wedding night will be spent down the street a ways where they will have more beautiful ocean views, and the rest of us won't have far to travel to curl up in our own beds after a blissful night.
Sunday, we will be going to La Palapa, Kalie's wedding site, to bring centerpieces and hopefully meet with the DJ. We want to see how the tables will look with our Pier I purchases. I plan on taking photos, so I'll show you next week. The DJ needs to center the K & J initials that will be projected onto the dance floor.
Kalie chose La Palapa for a few reasons.
1. Jeremy wanted to be married ON THE SAND. Not next to the sand, not looking down from a cliff to the sand, not looking at sand through a window of a church. ON.THE.SAND!
La Palapa has a beautiful runner that extends from the sidewalk area onto the sand and ends under palm trees with a gazebo. Chairs are set on each side (bride's side and groom's side) of the runner. Their feet will never actually touch sand. They will be on the runner. Mine however will. Not thrilled. I'm still trying to figure this situation out. I guess I could supply sandals in a beach tub for guests, or maybe offer hot towels to wipe their feet after the ceremony, or pretend we are really not on actual sand and simply smile a lot. Still working this situation out.
2. Kalie did not want anyone to have to travel from wedding site to reception site. La Palapa is a funky bar type restaurant on the beach in Long Beach. CUTE, CUTE, CUTE. My girlfriends and I have spent many a night there having a rip roaring time. When my mom told me that a friend of hers attended a wedding there, I was significantly puzzled. My mom said the reception was upstairs. What I recalled was a tiki style rooftop with no stairs anywhere in sight. However, when Kalie and I made an appointment to see the reception spot, we went outside to stairs that ran along the side of the building. Intriguing. Elizabeth, owner and coordinator, opened the double doors and both Kalie and I took a collective gasp. BEAUTIFUL. Simply gorgeous. A full bar as you walk in, a "cigar or international coffee room" to the left, down the wide foyer hall was a beautiful gazebo with crystal chandelier that the wedding cake sat under. The ballroom had a gigantic crystal chandelier with red and ivory swags that started in the center of the ceiling above the dance floor and extended the wall. Unbelievable. The floor to ceiling windows overlooking the shoreline and Queen Mary was gorgeous. Everywhere were European looking armoires, wing backed chairs, and beautiful wood. Stunning. We signed the contract that day!
3. Both Kalie and Jeremy were born and raised in Long Beach. This is a Long Beach wedding! 90% of our friends and family all live in Long Beach. We are using as many local vendors as possible. We love our little hometown! Their wedding night will be spent down the street a ways where they will have more beautiful ocean views, and the rest of us won't have far to travel to curl up in our own beds after a blissful night.
Thursday, December 30, 2010
Thankful Thursday
There is always so much to be thankful for. I wish I focused more on those things during the week than all the problems or concerns that I am facing. One way that a thankful heart arises within me every time is listening to my Christian radio station in the car. I have now found Pandora at home! If you don't know about this- check.it.out! www.pandora.com It is a radio station that you can create your own music stations. I entered Alli Rogers, and now a plethora of wonderful music comes on that put me in a very thankful state of mind!
This was a low key week. Yes, I'm thankful for that, too! Christmas Eve was spent with Todd, Austin, Ashley and Laura at my favorite Chinese restaurant, Chens. I decided cooking on Christmas Eve and having my family for brunch on Christmas Day was just TOO MUCH!! Kalie spent the evening with Jeremy's family; a new tradition that will now carry on through their married life!
After watching "A Christmas Story" and going to bed relatively early, Todd and I woke up at 6 to put the Christmas ham in the oven. Actually, he did all the work, I watched and sipped my coffee on the sidelines! By 8:00 we woke the kids and announced that Santa had arrived!
After presents, I made some deviled eggs, put the ham on a platter, shared the lox, cream cheese & bagels, and set out the fruit. A light brunch was perfect!
We enjoyed our presents and our family!
Because of so much rain here, we have played until our hearts content! It has been a relaxing vacation! For that, I am extremely thankful!
This was a low key week. Yes, I'm thankful for that, too! Christmas Eve was spent with Todd, Austin, Ashley and Laura at my favorite Chinese restaurant, Chens. I decided cooking on Christmas Eve and having my family for brunch on Christmas Day was just TOO MUCH!! Kalie spent the evening with Jeremy's family; a new tradition that will now carry on through their married life!
After watching "A Christmas Story" and going to bed relatively early, Todd and I woke up at 6 to put the Christmas ham in the oven. Actually, he did all the work, I watched and sipped my coffee on the sidelines! By 8:00 we woke the kids and announced that Santa had arrived!
After presents, I made some deviled eggs, put the ham on a platter, shared the lox, cream cheese & bagels, and set out the fruit. A light brunch was perfect!
We enjoyed our presents and our family!
Because of so much rain here, we have played until our hearts content! It has been a relaxing vacation! For that, I am extremely thankful!
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Wednesday's Worship
I began praying this years ago. Insert your husband and children's names to have greater impact for your family!
Ephesians 3:14 - 19
14 For this reason, I bow my knees before the Father,
15 from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name,
16 that He would grant (name), according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with power through His Spirit in the inner man;
17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; and they (name), being rooted and grounded in love,
18 may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth,
19 and to know the love of Christ which surpasses knowledge, that (name) may be filled up to all the fulness of God.
Ephesians 3:14 - 19
14 For this reason, I bow my knees before the Father,
15 from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name,
16 that He would grant (name), according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with power through His Spirit in the inner man;
17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; and they (name), being rooted and grounded in love,
18 may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth,
19 and to know the love of Christ which surpasses knowledge, that (name) may be filled up to all the fulness of God.
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
Organization and Well Intentions
How often I bite off more than I can chew. BUT..... I find that IF I'm organized, I can somehow manage! So in an effort to blog, I've decided to create a system. That goes along perfectly with my type A nature! I've decided to have each day dedicated to a different "theme". This will hopefully keep me motivated AND accomplish a few of the things that are tugging at my heart.
I will break the days into the areas I WANT to talk about - hopefully this will make it less of a chore. Because I am NOT a writer, it sometimes feels "chore like" to stare at a blank page and come up with something! SO - the categories are...... (drum roll, please..)
Mondays Menu: Another attempt to post my meal planning, links to recipes, and share a few of my favorite foods :D
Tuesdays Top 5: whether it is organizing tips, books I've read, things I'm learning, disasters that have happened in our home JK, something that might inspire or at least commit to my memory through this blog, I will come up with 5 things!
Wednesdays Worship: I need to read and ponder the Bible more often than I am doing. This is an attempt to look at a piece of scripture, commit a portion to memory, use it in my life, see how big our amazing God is, and share.
Thankful Thursday: This is the day I want to share about my household. What I'm thankful for, what we've been up to, keep a journal of happenings to look back on when I'm old and gray. What a minute, I am old and gray. Well, highlighted and middle aged at least.
Fun Friday: Here I want to highlight Kalie's wedding process. We are having so much fun planning for her big day! I've decided that if God so chooses, I would trade out teaching for wedding planning as a full time occupation. I'll share my journey of how I have approached each vendor, thought, commitment, and idea related to this magical time!
WEEKENDS OFF unless otherwise inspired!
SOOOOO..... Because I want to be diligent, I will start today!
TUESDAYS TOP 5: How to stay organized!
1) A place for everything. I am forever harping on my children to pick up things and "put them in there place!". I have designated every spot in my house for something: pleasure, work, cooking, more formal gatherings, more casual hanging out. I've bought furniture and accessories that help in this process. We have organizers in our drawers to help declutter the utensils.
Because this is my philosophy, and not shared by all (ahem, Todd), I decided to move out of "our office" and create my own office in my daughter Ashley's old room. She moved out last summer (but still somehow shows up here regularly for meals and a night on the couch!), and now I have my own clean, organized space. IF you do anything for yourself: I implore you, make a spot just for you!
2) Time Management. Need I say more. I'm a list maker. Surprise! I'm also a control freak! Surprise! On my classroom white board I have a large area designated "Daily Routine". Under this title lists the day's activities - complete with times! Every student looks at that board several times a day. I watch their eyes move over it to see what's coming next!
I plan my time at home the same way! I make of list of "things to do" and then I go back and assign a "time frame" for each item. I then re-write the list so it is in chronological order from the beginning of the day until the end! If it's on the list, there is a 99% chance it will be accomplished. If it floats around in my head, 99% chance it won't! Because mom's have so much to think about, thoughts and ideas get lost all the time. By having it in writing, I can release my brain from storing that little piece of information. By assigning times, I can navigate my day to maximize accomplishment and minimize wasted time.
3) Meal Planning. The truth is - if I don't plan for it, it won't get done. This includes eating in my house. This is primarily due to the fact that I don't just throw together ingredients to create a fabulous dish. I'm a recipe reader. I love reading recipes and following along. I can throw in a few substitutions or change out meats to create new dishes, but I need a foundation in which to springboard from. On Saturdays, I plan my meals for the week. Once I have my plan (cooking at least 4 days with room for left overs), I make two lists. One list is the day with the designated dish ie Monday: Stir Fry with rice. The second list is the grocery list! I do this as I pick each meal. I jot down on a separate piece of paper all the items I need to pick up at the market to complete the meal.
Now whether we end up having a dish on that particular night (things do come up!), at least I know I have all the ingredients I need to prepare the meal. That is the part that makes eating possible in my house! This said, every kitchen does need staples. I will make that my next Tuesdays top 5: Staples every kitchen should have!
4)A Family Calendar! A place where everything is written down for every member of the family! This is the whole reason I bought my IPAD! A color coded calendar. Each member of the household has a color! Now I glance at my calendar and know exactly who needs to be where at what time! Now that my girls are in college, I rarely need to check on them. They still give me their semester schedule and any important dates that need my attention. The trick to this happening: Make sure you check in with your husband at least weekly to input any of his up coming activities! There's nothing worse than planning a family movie, only to find out he's sailing that day. Just saying.
5)Create alone time. Whether you are an early riser, a late to bed person, or find breaks in the day, you will need time to create lists, mentally go over schedules, or just sit before God quietly. We all need alone time to decompress and organize! This time is precious and only leads to positive outcomes!
Happy Organizing!
I will break the days into the areas I WANT to talk about - hopefully this will make it less of a chore. Because I am NOT a writer, it sometimes feels "chore like" to stare at a blank page and come up with something! SO - the categories are...... (drum roll, please..)
Mondays Menu: Another attempt to post my meal planning, links to recipes, and share a few of my favorite foods :D
Tuesdays Top 5: whether it is organizing tips, books I've read, things I'm learning, disasters that have happened in our home JK, something that might inspire or at least commit to my memory through this blog, I will come up with 5 things!
Wednesdays Worship: I need to read and ponder the Bible more often than I am doing. This is an attempt to look at a piece of scripture, commit a portion to memory, use it in my life, see how big our amazing God is, and share.
Thankful Thursday: This is the day I want to share about my household. What I'm thankful for, what we've been up to, keep a journal of happenings to look back on when I'm old and gray. What a minute, I am old and gray. Well, highlighted and middle aged at least.
Fun Friday: Here I want to highlight Kalie's wedding process. We are having so much fun planning for her big day! I've decided that if God so chooses, I would trade out teaching for wedding planning as a full time occupation. I'll share my journey of how I have approached each vendor, thought, commitment, and idea related to this magical time!
WEEKENDS OFF unless otherwise inspired!
SOOOOO..... Because I want to be diligent, I will start today!
TUESDAYS TOP 5: How to stay organized!
1) A place for everything. I am forever harping on my children to pick up things and "put them in there place!". I have designated every spot in my house for something: pleasure, work, cooking, more formal gatherings, more casual hanging out. I've bought furniture and accessories that help in this process. We have organizers in our drawers to help declutter the utensils.
Because this is my philosophy, and not shared by all (ahem, Todd), I decided to move out of "our office" and create my own office in my daughter Ashley's old room. She moved out last summer (but still somehow shows up here regularly for meals and a night on the couch!), and now I have my own clean, organized space. IF you do anything for yourself: I implore you, make a spot just for you!
2) Time Management. Need I say more. I'm a list maker. Surprise! I'm also a control freak! Surprise! On my classroom white board I have a large area designated "Daily Routine". Under this title lists the day's activities - complete with times! Every student looks at that board several times a day. I watch their eyes move over it to see what's coming next!
I plan my time at home the same way! I make of list of "things to do" and then I go back and assign a "time frame" for each item. I then re-write the list so it is in chronological order from the beginning of the day until the end! If it's on the list, there is a 99% chance it will be accomplished. If it floats around in my head, 99% chance it won't! Because mom's have so much to think about, thoughts and ideas get lost all the time. By having it in writing, I can release my brain from storing that little piece of information. By assigning times, I can navigate my day to maximize accomplishment and minimize wasted time.
3) Meal Planning. The truth is - if I don't plan for it, it won't get done. This includes eating in my house. This is primarily due to the fact that I don't just throw together ingredients to create a fabulous dish. I'm a recipe reader. I love reading recipes and following along. I can throw in a few substitutions or change out meats to create new dishes, but I need a foundation in which to springboard from. On Saturdays, I plan my meals for the week. Once I have my plan (cooking at least 4 days with room for left overs), I make two lists. One list is the day with the designated dish ie Monday: Stir Fry with rice. The second list is the grocery list! I do this as I pick each meal. I jot down on a separate piece of paper all the items I need to pick up at the market to complete the meal.
Now whether we end up having a dish on that particular night (things do come up!), at least I know I have all the ingredients I need to prepare the meal. That is the part that makes eating possible in my house! This said, every kitchen does need staples. I will make that my next Tuesdays top 5: Staples every kitchen should have!
4)A Family Calendar! A place where everything is written down for every member of the family! This is the whole reason I bought my IPAD! A color coded calendar. Each member of the household has a color! Now I glance at my calendar and know exactly who needs to be where at what time! Now that my girls are in college, I rarely need to check on them. They still give me their semester schedule and any important dates that need my attention. The trick to this happening: Make sure you check in with your husband at least weekly to input any of his up coming activities! There's nothing worse than planning a family movie, only to find out he's sailing that day. Just saying.
5)Create alone time. Whether you are an early riser, a late to bed person, or find breaks in the day, you will need time to create lists, mentally go over schedules, or just sit before God quietly. We all need alone time to decompress and organize! This time is precious and only leads to positive outcomes!
Happy Organizing!
Friday, December 24, 2010
Chocolate Cake
What's wrong with having a piece of chocolate cake for breakfast. Nothing! Austin and I just finished off a delicious treat my mom just brought by. Chocolate Molten Cake! Yum. And, yes, I gave him orange juice to make it a balanced breakfast.
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Potty Training
In an effort to record some memories, I will try and blog at least once a month. Maybe then I'll be proud of myself if I pump out two blogs in the same amount of time...
Austin: The most precious little man ever. I LOVE that little guy soooo much. He is fun, innocent, helpful, compliant, sweet, interested, and completely absorbed in his DS at the present moment. I know that I sound like a biased mom, but truly, I complain about my kids when warranted!
This is day 3 of potty training.
PROS: He has only had 2 accidents today. He has only worn pull ups at night, cutting down the cost of that expensive item! He only cries for about 20 seconds now when I put on the toilet. He doesn't need any stimulus to pee.
CONS: I'm tired. He doesn't tell me when he needs to go. I still have to pick him up and carry him to the potty kicking and objecting. I'm tired. He hasn't pooped in a day. Did I mention that I'm tired.
Ashley: Ashley who? Oh, yeah, my second daughter. She is 20 and living everywhere at the present time. This year she moved to her dad's house, but she prefers sleeping at all of her friends' houses! She is in her 3rd year of college, and excelling in Art, her major. She also just got hired at UPS. Ashley - come home! I miss you. Even though I saw you this morning -
Kalie - Getting married June 11, 2011. I am most anxious to blog about her wedding, so I can keep these memories fresh. So far we have the venue - a beachy restaurant with a BEAUTIFUL ballroom upstairs. We have hired the photographer, DJ, florist, cake decorator, and bought the invitations. I will post more detail as we advance towards the day!
It has finally stopped raining here in Southern California! Todd had to replace 3 sump pumps and THANK GOD we had no flooding in the house. Christmas is approaching quickly - we will have Christmas morning here with the family. Todd's family will arrive on Sunday.
I bought myself a camera for Christmas. It is wrapped and ready to go under the tree. I can't wait to open it! Maybe then, I'll even post a few pictures!! Yahoo!!!
Austin: The most precious little man ever. I LOVE that little guy soooo much. He is fun, innocent, helpful, compliant, sweet, interested, and completely absorbed in his DS at the present moment. I know that I sound like a biased mom, but truly, I complain about my kids when warranted!
This is day 3 of potty training.
PROS: He has only had 2 accidents today. He has only worn pull ups at night, cutting down the cost of that expensive item! He only cries for about 20 seconds now when I put on the toilet. He doesn't need any stimulus to pee.
CONS: I'm tired. He doesn't tell me when he needs to go. I still have to pick him up and carry him to the potty kicking and objecting. I'm tired. He hasn't pooped in a day. Did I mention that I'm tired.
Ashley: Ashley who? Oh, yeah, my second daughter. She is 20 and living everywhere at the present time. This year she moved to her dad's house, but she prefers sleeping at all of her friends' houses! She is in her 3rd year of college, and excelling in Art, her major. She also just got hired at UPS. Ashley - come home! I miss you. Even though I saw you this morning -
Kalie - Getting married June 11, 2011. I am most anxious to blog about her wedding, so I can keep these memories fresh. So far we have the venue - a beachy restaurant with a BEAUTIFUL ballroom upstairs. We have hired the photographer, DJ, florist, cake decorator, and bought the invitations. I will post more detail as we advance towards the day!
It has finally stopped raining here in Southern California! Todd had to replace 3 sump pumps and THANK GOD we had no flooding in the house. Christmas is approaching quickly - we will have Christmas morning here with the family. Todd's family will arrive on Sunday.
I bought myself a camera for Christmas. It is wrapped and ready to go under the tree. I can't wait to open it! Maybe then, I'll even post a few pictures!! Yahoo!!!
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Time on my hands...
It looks like I might be able to bring my blog site up to date! Currently, I have a terrific student teacher in my classroom. One that needs little inspiration, correction, or modeling. She picks things up quickly and is very organized. Because of this, I have time on my hands. Not such a great thing for a classroom teacher.
My files have been cleaned out, all the kids are tested and up to speed, bulletin boards are beautiful, even the closets are clean. Did I mention that I am a special education teacher with 5 absolutely amazing aides as well. Everyone has their job to do, so we really do run like clockwork in here! Hate to say it, but I could actually work myself out of a job training all these fantastic men and women! Besides the fact that my students are pretty terrific as well.
On the home front, Todd brought home a camper that we could say needs a little work! Last weekend we scrubbed the walls, sprayed the counters because of an ant invasion, and shook out all the seat cushions. It looks much better, but we still have lots to do! When Todd noticed a crack in the ceiling, he poked his finger at it and water drizzled down. Now we need to take the ceiling panels off and dry it out. Once we assess that problem, we will move forward to all the other areas needing our attention. This will be a one step at a time process I believe!
Austin is doing great in school (knock on wood). I have come to believe that whenever I praise my kids, the opposite will happen within a day or two.... this has made me very leery of saying anything good. Isn't that sad! Anyway, school seems to be getting better all the time. He sat in Circle Time yesterday and actually got up and danced and sang. We've gone from him running around the room, screaming to be outside to sitting on a lap involuntarily. He wouldn't let Todd participate at all with singing and dancing. He resigned himself to sitting on his daddy's lap, but that was all. Now he participated for the first time yesterday! Hooray!
Kalie made the TNT sorority at school. She performed in the Spring Sing on Friday night and her group won two awards: Most Ticket Sales & Women's Division. They did a song/skit based on Alice in Wonderland. It was fun to see her so happy and involved! She has an interview today. She wants to be selected as the Queen for the Mini Grand Prix; this is the largest school event which brings in much needed funds for the school.
Ashley is doing great in school as well. She is receiving A's on her projects in Art which encourages her and strengthens her belief that her future is somehow in this industry.
Since I am posting at school, I will try to bring in a CD of recent pics to share. Hopefully, I will be consistent with the updates since I am not chronically Austin's upbringing in any other way!
My files have been cleaned out, all the kids are tested and up to speed, bulletin boards are beautiful, even the closets are clean. Did I mention that I am a special education teacher with 5 absolutely amazing aides as well. Everyone has their job to do, so we really do run like clockwork in here! Hate to say it, but I could actually work myself out of a job training all these fantastic men and women! Besides the fact that my students are pretty terrific as well.
On the home front, Todd brought home a camper that we could say needs a little work! Last weekend we scrubbed the walls, sprayed the counters because of an ant invasion, and shook out all the seat cushions. It looks much better, but we still have lots to do! When Todd noticed a crack in the ceiling, he poked his finger at it and water drizzled down. Now we need to take the ceiling panels off and dry it out. Once we assess that problem, we will move forward to all the other areas needing our attention. This will be a one step at a time process I believe!
Austin is doing great in school (knock on wood). I have come to believe that whenever I praise my kids, the opposite will happen within a day or two.... this has made me very leery of saying anything good. Isn't that sad! Anyway, school seems to be getting better all the time. He sat in Circle Time yesterday and actually got up and danced and sang. We've gone from him running around the room, screaming to be outside to sitting on a lap involuntarily. He wouldn't let Todd participate at all with singing and dancing. He resigned himself to sitting on his daddy's lap, but that was all. Now he participated for the first time yesterday! Hooray!
Kalie made the TNT sorority at school. She performed in the Spring Sing on Friday night and her group won two awards: Most Ticket Sales & Women's Division. They did a song/skit based on Alice in Wonderland. It was fun to see her so happy and involved! She has an interview today. She wants to be selected as the Queen for the Mini Grand Prix; this is the largest school event which brings in much needed funds for the school.
Ashley is doing great in school as well. She is receiving A's on her projects in Art which encourages her and strengthens her belief that her future is somehow in this industry.
Since I am posting at school, I will try to bring in a CD of recent pics to share. Hopefully, I will be consistent with the updates since I am not chronically Austin's upbringing in any other way!
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Monday, February 15, 2010
Home, Mommy
This past weekend we spent in Big Bear. All I can do is pray that I actually download pictures from the past 4 fabulous days. Snow was pushed to the sides of the road in 4 foot walls. The playground was covered up to the top of the slide with packed white powder. The lake, the beautiful lake, was covered in ice. A gigantic sheet of ice. Beauty was everywhere.
From Tuesday to Thursday prior to us leaving for Big Bear Friday afternoon, Todd took Austin on an impromptu trip up to Sacramento. Many things happened on the trip:
Todd and Austin were able to celebrate Granny Ruth's 92nd birthday, Austin was able to play with his cousins, aunt, uncle, grandparents (unfortunately, he never warmed up to anyone except his cousin, Colin), Austin was able to see horses and chickens all over the ranch (except he never warmed up to any of the animals), and Todd brought home a camper. Fun! Now we can plan a camping trip! All we need to do is fumigate the darn thing and hope all the ants go and live somewhere else. It's old and feeble, but with some TLC we are hoping to bring it back to life!
And the other thing that happened was that Austin became a recording of, "Home, Mamma, Home". Even in Big Bear with me, he continually said, "Home, Mamma, Home"
I'll blog later about our trip! Austin is here now asking to play Thomas videos on the computer. Home, sweet, Home!
From Tuesday to Thursday prior to us leaving for Big Bear Friday afternoon, Todd took Austin on an impromptu trip up to Sacramento. Many things happened on the trip:
Todd and Austin were able to celebrate Granny Ruth's 92nd birthday, Austin was able to play with his cousins, aunt, uncle, grandparents (unfortunately, he never warmed up to anyone except his cousin, Colin), Austin was able to see horses and chickens all over the ranch (except he never warmed up to any of the animals), and Todd brought home a camper. Fun! Now we can plan a camping trip! All we need to do is fumigate the darn thing and hope all the ants go and live somewhere else. It's old and feeble, but with some TLC we are hoping to bring it back to life!
And the other thing that happened was that Austin became a recording of, "Home, Mamma, Home". Even in Big Bear with me, he continually said, "Home, Mamma, Home"
I'll blog later about our trip! Austin is here now asking to play Thomas videos on the computer. Home, sweet, Home!
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
A Perfect Angel
Triumph.
I called my girlfriend the other day to ask for help. She's known in these parts as Preschool Super Nanny. She's even thinking about creating a hotline for hopeless preschool moms. Like me.
Todd took Austin to preschool on Monday. The report to me went something like....
Me: How was school today? Did Austin sit in Circle Time?
T: Maybe for a minute or two. Then he got up and ran to the middle of the circle and started clowning around. When I went to get him, he ran out the other side of the circle. As I came around the outside of the circle, he ran back through the middle.
Me: OMG. Did you catch him???
T: Well, then he saw a trash truck drive by the window and he started yelling, "Twash twuk, Twash, twuk" as he ran for the door to go outside.
Me: I'm sorry.
T: Helpless.
I called my friend. She started asking me all kinds of questions about his social situations, etc.... and I realized - He is perfectly fine, just a silly, outgoing, at times non-compliant boy. But he is so sweet. And it didn't help that Carmen gave him doughnut holes for breakfast.
So, today, I went with Todd and Austin to preschool. Santa was coming today. Santa had a present for Austin. We walked in the room, straight over to the circle and I sat down. I put Austin on my lap and told him Santa was coming. We sang the first song, danced the dance and then sat again as Santa arrived. Austin sat on my lap until his name was called to go up and get his gift. He looked at his book while Santa handed out the rest of the presents. Then we made a bag to hold all the other treats Austin was going to receive this morning. We decorated a picture frame with our picture in it (which will go in Todd's stocking), and made one other craft. Outside Austin listened and played on the bikes. We came in for the last circle time, and Austin participated. He did great today! Yeah!!
I called my girlfriend the other day to ask for help. She's known in these parts as Preschool Super Nanny. She's even thinking about creating a hotline for hopeless preschool moms. Like me.
Todd took Austin to preschool on Monday. The report to me went something like....
Me: How was school today? Did Austin sit in Circle Time?
T: Maybe for a minute or two. Then he got up and ran to the middle of the circle and started clowning around. When I went to get him, he ran out the other side of the circle. As I came around the outside of the circle, he ran back through the middle.
Me: OMG. Did you catch him???
T: Well, then he saw a trash truck drive by the window and he started yelling, "Twash twuk, Twash, twuk" as he ran for the door to go outside.
Me: I'm sorry.
T: Helpless.
I called my friend. She started asking me all kinds of questions about his social situations, etc.... and I realized - He is perfectly fine, just a silly, outgoing, at times non-compliant boy. But he is so sweet. And it didn't help that Carmen gave him doughnut holes for breakfast.
So, today, I went with Todd and Austin to preschool. Santa was coming today. Santa had a present for Austin. We walked in the room, straight over to the circle and I sat down. I put Austin on my lap and told him Santa was coming. We sang the first song, danced the dance and then sat again as Santa arrived. Austin sat on my lap until his name was called to go up and get his gift. He looked at his book while Santa handed out the rest of the presents. Then we made a bag to hold all the other treats Austin was going to receive this morning. We decorated a picture frame with our picture in it (which will go in Todd's stocking), and made one other craft. Outside Austin listened and played on the bikes. We came in for the last circle time, and Austin participated. He did great today! Yeah!!
Saturday, December 12, 2009
Farmville
I'm not a video game player. I wasn't really into Pac Man. I don't play Play Station 2, WII, or Guitar Hero, even though we own all of them. I am surrounded by gamers.
However, I have found a game I'm thoroughly enjoying; It's called Farmville, and it's on Facebook.
First, you have to be on Facebook. Second, you go to the applications button and click on the corn icon. Then you can begin to create a farm.
I think I like it because I always felt I was a country girl. Yes, I like having a housekeeper, yes, I like sleeping in clean hotels, yes, I like buying my food in the grocery store, but every time I pick a tomato off our plant, I feel good all over!~
Farmville is my way of having a farm and living a little in the country. Many of my friends from high school have become my neighbors. It's fun to fertilize their crops, send them gifts, and stay connected. IF you begin to have a farm, or already have one, let me know so we can be neighbors!
However, I have found a game I'm thoroughly enjoying; It's called Farmville, and it's on Facebook.
First, you have to be on Facebook. Second, you go to the applications button and click on the corn icon. Then you can begin to create a farm.
I think I like it because I always felt I was a country girl. Yes, I like having a housekeeper, yes, I like sleeping in clean hotels, yes, I like buying my food in the grocery store, but every time I pick a tomato off our plant, I feel good all over!~
Farmville is my way of having a farm and living a little in the country. Many of my friends from high school have become my neighbors. It's fun to fertilize their crops, send them gifts, and stay connected. IF you begin to have a farm, or already have one, let me know so we can be neighbors!
Monday, December 7, 2009
Penne with Broccoli, Panchetta & White Beans
Pretty simple and pretty good.
I started by boiling water for my penne, and I always drop my broccoli on top of whatever pasta I'm cooking in order to blanch it quickly.
In a large saute pan, I put in about 1 T olive oil and 5 chopped slices of pancetta browning it for about 2 - 3 minutes. I added 1/2 chopped onion, 2 cloves garlic chopped, and some left over sausage (kielbasa) from breakfast yesterday. I got that nice and caramelized and added 1 can of white northern beans. I drained the can of liquid first and then just dumped in the beans. I love adding beans because it's an instant thickener. I removed the broccoli from the boiling water and added it to the saute pan. I sliced about 8 grape tomatoes and added them as well. I tossed everything, added salt and pepper. When the pasta was done, I tossed that in as well. I also added a couple of serving size spoonfuls of pasta water to loosen it up a bit. I stirred gently (really kinda folding all the ingredients) and plated. Last, I topped it with shredded Parmesan.
Served with a salad, it was light, fresh, and tasty.
I started by boiling water for my penne, and I always drop my broccoli on top of whatever pasta I'm cooking in order to blanch it quickly.
In a large saute pan, I put in about 1 T olive oil and 5 chopped slices of pancetta browning it for about 2 - 3 minutes. I added 1/2 chopped onion, 2 cloves garlic chopped, and some left over sausage (kielbasa) from breakfast yesterday. I got that nice and caramelized and added 1 can of white northern beans. I drained the can of liquid first and then just dumped in the beans. I love adding beans because it's an instant thickener. I removed the broccoli from the boiling water and added it to the saute pan. I sliced about 8 grape tomatoes and added them as well. I tossed everything, added salt and pepper. When the pasta was done, I tossed that in as well. I also added a couple of serving size spoonfuls of pasta water to loosen it up a bit. I stirred gently (really kinda folding all the ingredients) and plated. Last, I topped it with shredded Parmesan.
Served with a salad, it was light, fresh, and tasty.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
I wuv you too, Mom
Austin is at that sweet age when I say, "I love you, Austin", he snuggles up next to me and closes his eyes, sweetly in a soft voice says, "I wuv you too, Mom". He's a little like a kitten rubbing his face and hair on my neck while he says it. If my day is busy, hectic, stressful, monotonous, all I have to do is replay those words in my head!
The bright spot today was completing my report cards (actually about 3/4ths), finishing progress reports, planning all December holiday crafts, scheduling all parent/teacher conferences, meeting with my Valet Parking crew (over 60 kids strong:)), and planning the rest of this year! Whew!
Now I have my office at home to tackle... This is when I start to replay, "I wuv you too, Mom"........
The bright spot today was completing my report cards (actually about 3/4ths), finishing progress reports, planning all December holiday crafts, scheduling all parent/teacher conferences, meeting with my Valet Parking crew (over 60 kids strong:)), and planning the rest of this year! Whew!
Now I have my office at home to tackle... This is when I start to replay, "I wuv you too, Mom"........
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Bring it On....
The lights are on the house. The mantel is covered in garland and white lights. The tree is in place. Cinnamon is in the air. Let the season begin......
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Happy Thanksgiving!
The turkey is in the oven, rolls are on the counter rising, stuffing is made, and the table is set. At 3:00, I will begin the mad rush to get the mashed potatoes done, glazed carrots sauteed, corn pudding in the oven, rolls baked, and turkey finished. The cranberry sauce will be put out, along with the desserts on their own table.
Until then, Todd is over at the shop cleaning. Austin has said, "Shop?" approximately 3,489 times this morning. He's over there lifting and closing the garage doors, looking for the stray bunny, and helping to sweep the floors.
Kalie and Jeremy are watching "Without a Paddle", laughing and chatting to friends on their phones. Ashley is now on her way home. She just applied to be a dog groomer at Petsmart. She's an art major in school, but I think she would be a great vet! She loves animals:)
I will go read a little: The Friday Night Knitting Club. Easy reading for a relaxing day. So much to be thankful for!
Until then, Todd is over at the shop cleaning. Austin has said, "Shop?" approximately 3,489 times this morning. He's over there lifting and closing the garage doors, looking for the stray bunny, and helping to sweep the floors.
Kalie and Jeremy are watching "Without a Paddle", laughing and chatting to friends on their phones. Ashley is now on her way home. She just applied to be a dog groomer at Petsmart. She's an art major in school, but I think she would be a great vet! She loves animals:)
I will go read a little: The Friday Night Knitting Club. Easy reading for a relaxing day. So much to be thankful for!
Monday, November 23, 2009
Trains and Trash Trucks
Two of Austin's greatest life's pleasures are trains and trash trucks. He has a Thomas the Train set out in the garage; providing hours of fun for him and his friends. He has a Thomas the Train set downstairs in our family room; providing hours of fun for him and his dad. He also absolutely loves, above all else, trash trucks. Every Tuesday morning, he is up and dressed, ready to jump on his bike and follow the trash truck around our neighborhood! Everywhere we go, he is on the look out for trash trucks, and when one is spotted, he promptly and excitedly yells, "Twash twuck, Mommy, turn, turn!":) Sometimes I do, Sometimes I don't. I have been known to follow a trash truck through an unknown neighborhood just to delight him.
This past weekend we went to Goat Hill in Fairview Park. It is a place where young and old labor with love over trains and tracks. Every 3rd weekend are free train rides. I'm on my daughter's computer, so I have no way of downloading the pictures of this adorable site. But, we sat for two rounds of train rides (each about 20 minutes) while my son watched so intently the tracks and wheels moving the on the train. If every weekend was riding trains and following trash trucks, life would be grand!
I am just now finishing my coffee, ready to get dressed and out the door to take Austin to preschool. Today is our Thanksgiving Feast. Hopefully all will go well, and I will be thankful!
This past weekend we went to Goat Hill in Fairview Park. It is a place where young and old labor with love over trains and tracks. Every 3rd weekend are free train rides. I'm on my daughter's computer, so I have no way of downloading the pictures of this adorable site. But, we sat for two rounds of train rides (each about 20 minutes) while my son watched so intently the tracks and wheels moving the on the train. If every weekend was riding trains and following trash trucks, life would be grand!
I am just now finishing my coffee, ready to get dressed and out the door to take Austin to preschool. Today is our Thanksgiving Feast. Hopefully all will go well, and I will be thankful!
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