Figuring it out one chore at a time

Like many Moms I know, I often hear 'I don't know how you do it.' Truth be told, I really don't know either. There are some days were I feel like I have it all together and I can conquer or embrace the obstacles in my way. However, there are many days were I feel like my head is underwater and I am happy if I get everyone where they need to be on time much less fed and happy. I think the key to those all together days are the ones with a plan --dinner meal is planned so I know what to thaw the day before; a plan/schedule about who needs to be where and when; a plan about what errands to run/ am I working that day/ is it a volunteer at school day; etc. But where does that leave the housework/chores?

Over the years, we have had many charts, routines, rotations, etc. regarding chores. Nothing has really stuck. As the kids grew older (and busier) I let more and more things slide to being 'my job'. It was easier to just do it myself (and not be a martyr, thanks Flylady) -- that way it got done; done the way I wanted it done; and I didn't have to constantly nag about it. And, yep, you guessed it. Everyone got used to me doing it all with minimal help from them. It was a madness that I created and contributed to. Well, I have come to my senses!!!! There has to be a better way....a way where everyone can contribute; do a good job; and I become a more sane 'all together' person.

Cue a new chore system:

Thanks to my amazing friend, Kelda I was motivated to figure out what to put on the lists and how to organize it. With six kids (my four + two extra teens), it was easy to spread the chores to a minimal amount for each person daily while getting it all done. For examples, today Maggie had to empty the main kitchen trash (&replace the bag) and feed Fritz (&fresh water); Ian had to wipe the boys' bathroom counter & sink and empty the daily recyclables from the pantry to the big bin.......all stuff I have been doing. Everyone did their chores and no one complained! Yes, I know it is new but everyone seems happy about the way it all separated out so I will be happy and hope for the best. Even though I did help finish the kitchen and wipe the counters/stove (because no one had that job today), it was a refreshing change instead of them scattering like cockroaches when I ask for a volunteer to load the dishwasher.

 

So, for today, I feel 'all together'. It's been a good day. And even though I have a cake baked and ready for icing, tomorrow I don't think I will be 'all together.' My heart is breaking because my baby will be 10; no more single digits.

Ahhhh, the sweet sound of rain

I have always loved the rain....especially if I can stay home under a blanket and just enjoy it. Add a great book and a hot cup of coffee and that is bonus. Maybe even pjs and slippers? scrapbooking? You get the drift. Right now, dinner is rolling; a crackling fire is burning; music is on; and I am uploading pics. While it rains, rains, rains. Ahhh!

Since I am uploading recent pics I thought I would share a few:
Mag got a medal for her UIL solo

Sean turned 14

my god-daughter is getting married at the end of April; her New Orleans bridal shower was last week (her fiance, Mike, is from Chalmette - they met in Witchita, crazy, huh?)

the French Quarter on a beautiful 'spring' day 

(this guy was right outside the Cathedral and he was mesmerizing)

There were many days were I stepped off the school bus into a torrential downpour and there was nothing more awesome than heading home to warm clothes and the sound of thunder rolling outside. I am hoping Sean and his friends who are out playing football in this downpour are creating fond memories. A warm dinner will hopefully add to his day. Fritz, however, is not fond of the rain or thunder and needs a Thundershirt.

14 in a flash!

So I've started off slow in the blogging department for 2014; life just gets in the way. And even though I might think a topic/event might be fun to blog about, the kids wouldn't think it was nice of me to be 'over-sharing' to the world about them so my posts may be limited to food and randomness. They share plenty on their own social media but there is a line that I need to respect. With that being said, I will blog about Sean and his birthday.

Happy 14th Birthday .... the days fly by.....just yesterday he looked like this, right?

Some things never change -- he has always loved the beach, sports, and being on-the-go. He has always been up for adventure and will give it everything he has (including extreme fingerpainting).

 

Last year, I posted about the things that I love about him. He is still all of those things and more but now he is about 5'9" and 135lbs and talking about high school schedules, weight training, etc.

 

After a dinner of chicken wings and chocolate cake, this evening we are taking him and five other teenage boys to Speed Zone for go-cart and other adrenaline filled things. Sounds like the perfect evening for him .....food, friends, and adrenaline.

 

I hope it brings him as much happiness as he gives me. Happy Birthday Toot! Stay awesome.

 

Good-bye 2013!

2013 has been quite the whirlwind for us overall. I thought I would take some time and make a video montage of our year. I am happy to report that I accomplished TWO of my New Year's resolutions from January.....I did take a photo a day (sometimes capturing the mundane things like dirty dishes but I did it) AND I managed to blog more than I have in almost four years. I will admit to shedding a few tears while I created, edited, rearranged, and added pics to this year in review. Tears of joy shed that remind me how blessed we are with great friends and family whether near or far. Tears of happiness for fond memories traveling many, many miles (and blocking out the random meltdowns after many, many hours of road-tripping).
Our Year in Review (via One True Media)

Looking forward to more travel and memory making in 2014.....hoping to add Mardi Gras and Virginia to our lists along with visiting family in Georgia and an extended CA visit (maybe) in the summer. My new camera is ready for lots of use; I hope to share more our craziness with you in 2014.

Genius moment

Sometimes in life Most days I feel like I'm doing an adequate job at this Mom thing. I try to teach my kids right from wrong and how to make positive choices all the while knowing they are going to do their own thing. I try to teach them about healthy eating and nutritional choices despite the bombardment of fast food and advertising of crap around us. I don't pretend to live in a Pinterest perfect world or have a house that is pristine. I try my best and that is all I can do.

BUT as hard as I have tried over the YEARS, my children still use an ungodly amount of cups on a daily basis. Yes, cups. My dishwasher overflows with their madness. I know they are capable of using ONE cup per day (they do it at other peoples' houses) but no matter how much I ask, harp, preach, nag, and scream they DO NOT get it. Sooooo, I have to outsmart them.

Amanda got her blue-lidded Tervis for her birthday from a friend. That is when I had my lightbulb moment. Everyone needs their own cup.......one they can call their own, one that they cannot blame on someone else when left randomly all over the house, one they can reach for and then remember that they love it because it keeps their drink hot/cold. Even Collin got a large sized Saints/Camo Tervis. Score one for MOM! I have my Starbucks straw cup so we all now have an insulated style cup to help minimize the dishes.

 

I am happy to say that so far it is working. I highly recommend the splurge for Tervis. There are not many things that I pay extra for but I am glad that I didn't skimp on these (grateful for the sale though). 

 

Now, if I could figure out a better laundry solution. Any genius Mom ideas out there?

Holiday Hoopla!

These days it feels like I'm jumping through hoops. Here are my thoughts in a few random sentences ---

1. Wrapping presents in code is fun. Sean can't stand the temptation of gifts with his name on them so this year each child gets all his/her gifts wrapped in the same paper; the kicker is that they don't know who has what paper. They love it. Sweet.

2. Working retail, especially toys, is pure madness this time of year.

3. Peppermint brownies, sugar cookies, butterscotch cornflake candy, chex mix muddy buddies, check! Still on agenda - fudge attempt #2 (REALLY need to get that candy thermometer!) and choc. chip cookies.

4. Cannot commit to doing gingerbread houses this year. They are just as happy with a handful of candy. And I hate the fact that they destroy eat them within minutes of decorating them. I am a Grinch when it comes to this.

5. Some day I will get to sleep in, right?

6. NO Elf-on-the-shelf for us. I think it's creepy. We've had magical elves for YEARS (copied form my sister-in-law).....they are always watching. And they leave a little something in the gift bags outside their bedrooms on the nights of the 21, 22, and 23 if the kids have been good. I thought they were too old for elf checks, but much to my chagrin to my surprise they were asking about the elves last week. Creative mini-gifts is hard enough work without having to go overachiever with a creepy doll for a month.

7. Watching loads of Christmas shows and movies when the opportunity arises. I hope we remembered to DVR The Polar Express.

8. Looking forward to seeing Saving Mr. Banks over the Christmas break. Any other must-see movies out there?

Merry Christmas! May this holiday hustle and bustle slow to a gentle pace and allow us all to savor the blessings in our lives.

It's beginning to look at lot like Christmas

And feel like Christmas too!!! Welcome ice storm whatever-your-name-is ---the Texas version of frozen tundra I suppose. The layer of ice has crushed the outdoor decorating possibilities of Clark Griswold Collin. However, it has brought the kids' dreams alive with a cancelled day of school this past Friday and the possibility of one more day off tomorrow. They have enjoyed many hours of ice play complete with using corrugated boxes, Rubbermaid storage lids, cookie sheets, and pool floats for sledding devices. Oh to be young again -- I risk life and limb just trying to get to the trash can without falling.

 

I have a new appreciation for the importance of a MUD ROOM and desperately wish I had one at this point. My front entry looks like the entire neighborhood dumped their gear before attempting to thaw with hot chocolate and Christmas shows.

We have been productive - the Christmas tree is up! (I think it needs ribbon garland though)

and I ordered the Christmas cards today (and I count this blog post as productive too!)

 

Other words or phrases that describe our last few days --- fireplace, donuts, pajamas, ice, treacherous (and successful) shopping with Collin, blankets, Christmas movies, ice, street skating/sliding, wet gloves, Christmas carols on the piano, ice, ice, ice.

 

I still need to get the fall decorations put away but I need some of them to thaw first.

So for today I will enjoy our Thanksgiving dinner that we are making today so we can enjoy some leftovers this week. And I will cheer on the Saints in front of our cozy fireplace but I suppose I should shower and change my pajamas first.

 

 

Time is flying....

How is it that I haven't posted in over a month? But even more mind boggling is the fact that we have been in Texas for 6-1/2months!!! (and some of our Irvine friends have moved to Austin too!) The last month has been a blur but I did have a few random notes to blog about so here is a sample of life:
1) Fall is HERE.....regular rain, cool temps, and changing leaves. The geese have arrived on the pond. It is so nice to actually have a change of season. And weird dry Santana winds aren't involved.
3) The clear blue sky here is simply beautiful, yet sometimes blinding. My body had forgotten what a sky looked like after being hidden in a layer of smog for 20 years.
2) Scrapbooking is good for my soul. I am happy to say that Sean's school album is completely up to date. He is officially in 8th grade. Ian, on the other hand, is still in preschool. Small victories, right?
3) Sick pets SUCK. No polite way to put it. Fritz had a terrible bout of pancreatinitis and many $$$ later he has recovered thankfully. But, I can't imagine if he gets sick again. Our finances can't handle it.
4) School projects are bad enough but the overachieving parents need to just STOP IT already! Stop doing your kids work for them please; you aren't helping them become successful. Let them earn their own grades. Unless you plan do their work projects when they become adults, teach them now how to plan and meet deadlines. Thanks :)
5) Pumpkin bread and pumpkin muffins make my family very happy; maybe as happy as a pumpkin spice latte for me.
6) I have started Christmas shopping. The reality that it is less than two months away is crazy. I get confused because as far as retail goes I think they started with Christmas decorations in July.
7) Why is there such hysteria over the 'What Does the Fox Say?' I still think I have been punked and these guys are making money over this insanity. What happened to real music? And why does this song get stuck in my head?
8) However, the dog teaser video that went viral on YouTube is beyond funny. Here it is if you haven't seen it....our family now uses this reaction for everything..blahhhhh! Much better than real whining.
and last but not least
9) Enjoy this bit of great performing. Band has really been a great (albeit exhausting) experience for Maggie. They are busy with football games and competition season. Here is there show performance. They won the Classic on the Lake but yesterday they didn't qualify to go to state to represent our area. I think they are awesome and should be really proud of their hardwork: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MFmKNJoXg0g;

Because it's really all about FOOD, isn't it!

MEAL PLAN ALERT: It's that time again.....sharing the plan :)
I'm thinking I should get a new crockpot since I am planning to use it this month....

Sept 15: bbq brisket, corn-on-cob, beans
9/16: brisket soft tacos (leftovers), corn&black bean mix, tortilla chips (Sean-football game)
9/17: lasagna, baked eggplant, garlic bread (PTA mtg.)
9/18: chicken pot pies, fruit
9/19: grilled fish, risotto, peas
9/20: chicken enchiladas, Mexican rice
9/21: hamburgers, baked fries, melon
9/22: London broil, garlic mashed potatoes, green beans
9/23: red beans & rice with sausage, rice, salad
9/24: crockpot roast (carrots, potato, turnip), crusty rolls (Sean-football game)
9/25: stuffed chicken breast (spinach & cheese), Stove Top stuffing, asparagus
9/26: breakfast for dinner (pancakes, bacon, eggs)
9/27: spaghetti w/meatsauce, salad (FHS game)
9/28: smoked pork roast, parsley red potatoes, sautéed squash
9/29: shrimp, potato salad, sautéed spinach
9/30: chicken stir-fry, fried rice
Oct. 1: white beans & ham (freezer), rice, salad (Sean-football game)
10/2: baked potato bar (chili, cheese, broccoli, chives, sour cream), fruit
10/3: tilapia piccata, green beans, ranch red potatoes
10/4: Boboli (pepp., sausage, cheese, green peppers, olives)  (FHS game)
10/5: bbq chicken, baked sweet potato, coleslaw
10/6: chili, cornbread, sautéed greens
10/7: Babe's.....out for Amanda's birthday!!!
10/8: ham steaks, mac n' cheese, peas (Sean - football game)
10/9: tuna melts, fruit salad
10/10: pork chops, perogies, sautéed sugar snap peas
10/11: sloppy joes, salad (FHS game)
10/12: fried catfish, mac n' cheese, soybeans  (did I really plan mac n' cheese twice in one week???   guess I will double batch from Tuesday)
10/13: crawfish etoufee, stmd. broccoli & cauliflower
10/14: meatloaf, stmd. carrots, couscous
10/15: shake n' bake pork chops, stmd. broccoli, wild rice blend
10/16: baked ziti w/Italian sausage, salad (Sean - football game)
10/17: NOT cooking ---- my birthday :)
10/18: tacos/quesadillas, refried beans (FHS game)
10/19: calzones, salad

Now if the weather would cool off, I would be thrilled to add some yummy soups and assorted fall dishes. But still waiting for below 75 for that.

Happy Eating :) ..... off to Sean's first game as an 8th grader....

Thursday thoughts

Just some random thinking for a Thursday:
1) Band season is in full swing. We experienced our first Friday Night Lights late week when we attended the Homecoming game. Band was great; football was awful. Hoping it was just a bad week for the team.

2) Sean made the 'A' team for 8th grade football. He is pretty excited about it. We are proud of him and all his hardwork. Rolling out of bed at 6am for early morning practice is gnarly but at least it isn't in the blazing TX heat. His first game is Monday and we can't wait!

3) Yesterday was 9/11.....I really need to stop watching all the dedications and such. I had no idea 12 years ago how sad the entire history making episode would still be. I have never been to NY; didn't know anyone in the towers; cannot even grasp the enormity of it all (still!). And it still makes me cry. We will never forget.

4) And as 9/11 passes, it means Amanda's birthday is approaching. I remember being a month away from my due date. How is she almost 12?

5) And that means Christmas shopping is upon us. (It's been Christmas season at Costco and Hobby Lobby for a month!) I will admit I have one small gift and three stocking stuffers so far. But that hardly makes a dent in reality. Sean is easy - he just wants Beats headphones and a pool table, um what????

6) On Sunday, Fritz was SICK. Poor little thing could hardly walk and barfed projectile vomited on the carpet. He didn't move for hours and could barely lift his head to his bowl for water. Then after about 6 hours he started emerging back to life. So weird; wonder if he ate one of the baby (one-inch long) lizards we keep finding in the house. Side note: vinegar and water works wonder on carpet!

7) Currently we are going through about three loaves of bread a week. GAH! That's 25 sandwiches for lunches (Sean has two) + any I might eat and random toast for breakfast. Good heavens.

8) I added on another merchandising job. So currently I'm up to sunglasses for two stores and jewelry at one, all Targets. With other small projects added on here and there I am making about 65% of what I did in CA; not bad on 15hrs. or less a week. I worked about 28/week in Irvine.

9) Ian got his cast off yesterday. Woot! He is in a boot for a short bit though. Based on what was under his cast (leaves, grass, etc.), the doc thought we should give him a reminder that he is nursing an injury and that he can't go crazy again just yet.

10) And one final note, it's not hump day, but the commercial still makes me laugh everyone single time!

Hoping your Thursday is filled with something that makes you laugh too!

Back to School.....so poetic

'Twas the first day of school
And Mom was up early
there are lunches to make
and kids growling, surly

First up is Sean
Football is calling
his carpool arrives
and his gear he is hauling


Then comes Ian
with smiles and a cool shirt
breakfast is done
and he's quite alert

Amanda is yawning,
6th grade is dawning,
she's ready to roll as quick as a flash
and off to the bus with a short little dash


Maggie's last to roll out the door
now she's off to be a sophomore
Band, theater, and ASL to do
a busy year for her and the FHS raccoon crew


There are chores to be done
in this little house
And Mom is happy
because it's quiet as a mouse.

Happy 2013-14 school year everyone!!!!

Adjustments

Life is all about making adjustments. Adjusting to new schedules; adjusting to new routines; adjusting to new jobs; adjusting to parenthood; adjusting to parenting toddlers; adjusting to parenting teens. You understand my point - there is always a transition going on.

And this week is one of the biggest adjustments for our family......adjusting the kids back to a decent bedtime schedule preparing for school. Summer is dwindling. Reality is setting in. SCHOOL STARTS MONDAY! Much to their chagrin, the kids don't like that a reasonable bedtime needs to become a reality. I keep promising that they will appreciate it next week but they don't believe me.

Collin is adjusting to coaching in a new place that isn't very welcoming if you haven't 'coached in TX before'. Adjusting to not helping with Sean's team because he now plays through school. Adjusting to new coworkers and new roads to be traveled (made easier by the GPS).

Me -- I'm adjusting to cooking around the crazy football and band rehearsal schedules. Adjusting to having one child in elementary school. Adjusting to the reality of four kids, multiple activities, and a schedule of chaos. BUT looking forward to the routine that school brings. (and hopefully adjusting my grocery bill down now that they aren't home eating non-stop) Adjusting to working retail (while I like my job(s), I REALLY miss working as an IA)

And the kids are still adjusting to the newness of the move overall. They were only in school for seven weeks last year after we moved. This school year will be the big transition (especially for Amanda with moving up to middle school).

And last, but not least, we are all looking forward to adjusting the DVR to record some new shows this fall. Sons of Anarchy starts soon :)

What is a big adjustment for you and your family?

Calm before the storm

The storm, for our family, represents FOOTBALL season! And it's not a bad storm like Hurricane Katrina. It's like a storm on dry farmlands after a drought; it's exciting, refreshing, and often leaves you with the feeling that 'this won't last long/ it will be gone too soon.' Football season can't come soon enough.

Next week Ian starts practice and Sean picks up his gear. They have been doing small drills in the backyard daily trying to adjust to the heat. Maggie's 'football season' has begun since she is in her 2nd week of band camp. She is working hard and looking forward to being a part of the high school football experience. (We hear it's serious business here in TX)

And, it's not just football within our family, it's SAINTS football and LSU football and fantasy football.

At least four days a week, we will be focused on football - Sean during the week/ Friday Night Lights with Maggie/ Saturday is Ian and LSU/ Sunday is NFL Sunday Ticket! So I think we qualify as a football family. (Amanda gets to be a super fan with me; hoping to teach her a few skills with the camera if she doesn't find some team siblings to hang with)

The madness of school starts on the 25th combined with football. I think that will kick it up a notch to pure chaos but for today we will savor our Blue Bell icecream (we are on our 9th day in a row over 100*), daily trips to the pool, and the slow pace that summer brings.

However, Saints preseason starts tonight so maybe I'll break out the black & gold a little early!

mmmm, can you smell it?

Nope --- not the manicotti in the oven. Or the coffee in my cup. And I wish it was cookies baking in the oven. Instead, it is the GLORIOUS smell of fresh school supplies. Is there anything more exciting than opening and organizing new school supplies. For as long as I can remember I have loved school supplies and the anticipation of getting new ones for a new school year sends adrenaline rushing through my veins. (and really makes me miss my old job, wah!)

Back in the day (going WAY BACK), my Mom used to pre-order our supply bundles and we would head to Fasullo's local drug store/pharmacy to pick it up a few days before school. I would rip that bundle apart as fast as I could to write my name on the fresh, clean goodness of notebooks, folders, and crayons. Oh yes, you know there is NOTHING quite like the clean aroma of a new box crayons.

Crayons, colors, 'crowns', however you say....they smell good!

Over a matter of days, I would organize, re-organize, pack and unpack my backpack in with pure delight.

When we lived in California, it seemed like school had just ended when Target put out the massive quanities of supplies. And then put them on sale. I was literally scooping up supplies within a month of school letting out. So, I had to keep the supplies hidden for about seven weeks before the kids could enjoy the adrenaline rush. Let's face it, there would NOT be any adrenaline if they had to even think about supplies at that point anyway. I hid them because I didn't even want to think about school either.

So today, I ventured out WITH a list and much to my dismay not one box of crayons was on the list! (Ian is getting a supply pack like I used to so I was only shopping for three.)  Not that we need any because we have plenty, but really? Nine binders, loads of dividers, and several composition books later my fingers were itching for something Crayola. I did wind up with two pack of colored pencils because we can never have enough of those but the list was void of Crayola requests. Gone are the days of crayons, markers, colored pencils by the basket full. Now it is mostly reams of college ruled paper along with notebooks, binders, and a couple folders. Binders are $$$$ and I am sad to know they won't likely last the year. We got a few other key things like pencils, pens, highlighters, and erasers, but it's not the same.

 

Maggie, Sean, and Amanda quickly organized and labeled their stuff but they are not quite ready to head back to the classroom just yet.

I will hold out hope that Ian will have some crayons in his supply pack. He will have the opportunity to rip it open, organize it, label it, and enjoy the scent of the fresh box of crayons. And if he doesn't, I might just have to buy a new box for .25 on sale and hid it in a Ziploc to savor the scent a little longer. (and be super sad that they don't need them in 4th grade)

My babies are getting older and their supplies are evolving as well, it doesn't mean I can't relive my childhood a little.

Another month/ another meal plan

July has been a wash so far with meal planning because we were on the go so much. However, now we are home for the long haul. People ask me all the time - how do you have time? why bother? So I will try to respond without sounding holier-than-though. Nothing is perfect but this system works pretty well for us.

1) How do I have time? --It really doesn't take much time at all. I only have to think about what to make for dinner 12 times a year. Isn't that surreal. It is a huge relief to pull out what needs to be thawed the day before and just have it in the fridge ready to go. No more daily hustle of trying to figure out dinner and ending up with pizza or fast food. Yesterday when we were just chilling I pulled out the folder of old menus; drew out a calendar on paper; and started asking 'dinner request?'. Usually I get several answers from each family member and then I start filling in the blanks from old menus. I try not to repeat things within the same month so when someone complains "spaghetti again?" I can respond with "we really on have it 12 times a year so hush :)"

2) Meal planning helps us stay on budget.  We spend a lot of money on food. Let me say that again, we spend A LOT of money on food but I shop sales, use coupons, and buy in bulk when it makes sense. For example, I bulk flax seed meal, brown sugar, nuts, couscous, etc. from the bulk bins at Sprouts. I buy smaller amounts than pre-packaged and it stays fresher because it all goes in a sealed container at home. I am also only buying what I'm going to use so there isn't a question about how long something has been hiding in the pantry because there isn't much extra in there. Of course, it has the essential snack, school lunch, extra items from a Costco run, but the core for cooking gets used. There is no random filling of the grocery cart; I buy what I need steering away from pre-packaged stuff. (here are some other specifics from an old post)

3) Meal planning reduces the amount of fast food we eat and keeps dining out to a minimum. If there is a plan, I/we have no excuse. Fast food and eating out are insanely expensive and terrible for you. Recently I have been noticing how SALTY food tastes when we eat 'convenience' foods. All of the traveling recently just reiterated how much I love when we have a meal plan and that I am helping my family stay healthy.

4) Meal planning is teaching my kids that eating a variety of foods is good for you. I would have never dreamed they would like mashed cauliflower, sautéed yellow squash, or polenta. They have come a LONG way and after years of exposing them to variety they will eat what I cook. They don't like sautéed spinach but I serve them a tablespoon full and still expect them to try it; they never know when their taste buds will change. I'm hoping one day they will thank me, but I'm not holding my breath.

So that brings me to the current plan --- end of July until August 17; I included my random notes about ingredients and meat so I can see what I have in the freezer or leftover.
22nd - baked chicken, stmd. broccoli, fruit salad
23rd - manicotti (ricotta, spinach, prosciutto, parm), salad
24th - tacos (ground turkey), black beans
25th - chicken pot pie (using leftover chicken from 22nd), melon & berries
26th - swiss steak (top round) with onion & bell pepp, mashed potato
27th - grilled red snapper, mashed cauliflower, asparagus
28th - parm.-lemon mahi mahi, sautéed grn beans, garlic mashed potatoes
29th - baked ziti with Italian sausage, sautéed eggplant
30th - chicken cordon bleu, creamy polenta, salad
31st - meatloaf (beef/turkey), green peas, baked mac n' cheese
Aug. 1 - chicken stir-fry, homemade fried rice
2nd - chicken quesadillas, refried beans
3rd - grilled fish (check sales), baked sweet potato, sautéed spinach
4th  - spaghetti with turkey meatballs, salad
5th - tuna melts, fruit salad
6th - chicken enchiladas, Mexican rice
7th - Boboli (make our own pizza), ceasar salad
8th - sausage sandwiches, sautéed yellow squash, cantaloupe
9th - chef salad, fruit
10th - rib-eye steak (freezer), Ranch red potatoes, creamed corn
11th - bbq pork butt (freezer), stmd. carrots & brocc., watermelon
12th  - red beans & rice, French bread, salad
13th - carnitas tacos (leftover from 11th), corn salsa
14th - tuna patties, wwht pasta salad, fruit
15th - sloppy joes, salad
16th - crusted tilapia, risotto, green beans
17th - hot dogs, fruit salad 

Some days are healthier than others; but overall I'm good with it. Home cooking is still better than most anything I can buy. I say 'most anything' because homemade French fries still don't hold a candle to McDonald's fries.

Off to prep the chicken for the oven............Happy Eating!

All good things must come to an end

Our Ohio vacation is nearing it's end....a visit to Grandma's house always involves lots of time visiting with family, fishing, swimming, and go-cart riding.

And for the past 15yrs, it includes a trek up to Cedar Point if it happens to be a summer visit. We have seen the childrens' area evolve from Berenstein Bear country to Camp Snoopy over the years. And this trip has proven to be bittersweet. I think this is the last time that we will need to visit Camp Snoopy

 

because Ian is the caboose on the family train. While the old coal train is mostly my speed, the kids are all venturing on to bigger (and scarier) things.  Although Ian and I did bail on the GateKeeper at the last minute Even though I didn't make my 9yr old ride the insanely intimidating GateKeeper, he did ride the Raptor. He may have panicked on the way up the click-clacking-climb-of-death, but he admitted that he loved it. I told him that if he paid attention, I did my fair share of screaming and that the Raptor is my LIMIT. There was no GateKeeper,  Millenium Force, Gemini, Wicked Twister, Maverick or the like going to happen for me. He was very happy about that and was pleased to spend his time in Camp Snoopy while adding the Iron Dragon to his risk taking ventures. The 'big' kids are independent, brave, and coaster crazy. Maggie was highly disappointed by the fact that the Dragster broke down. Where have my babies gone? The time flew faster than a speeding coaster.


Yesterday, I ventured over to the Ohio State Reformatory with my sister-in-law and two oldest nieces. It was built in 1886. It looks like a majestic castle.

It is also the sight of where several movies and music videos have been filmed. Specifically, one of my all time favorites - Shawshank Redemption. The Reformatory itself was amazing; yet creepy. To think that 1,000s of prisoners, guards, wardens (and their families) lived here was unbelievable.

The temperature was hot and it was very icky, sticky in there. Contrast that to the bitter cold winters and this place must have been wicked. The ceilings are brick and the walls are THICK.

The 7x9 cells (for two people) were TINY. It is said that many parts of the place are haunted and I can tell you when I wandered away from the family to grab this picture, you better believe I quickly walked ran back to the area where the family was. It's the Shawshank safe!!! So cool.

But THIS gave me goosebumps.....

I know......it's a movie prop. And they had Andy's escape tunnel too. But in this setting with the REAL jail all around, it was awesome. We had a really nice time and it was topped off by a grown-up dinner at Olive Garden. Sarah and Ann head to college soon; Sarah- a junior at College of Wooster who will soon be doing a semester in Russia! and Ann - a freshman at Dartmouth. Gone are their years at Camp Snoopy too.

 

Today we made our traditional visit to Downtown Mansfield for a ride on the historic carousel and a meal at Coney Island Diner.

They may get older, more independent and sillier but I'm hoping that there are some things they will never outgrow. Good times with family never come to an end.

 

If you can't bet 'em, join 'em :)

Aaaaahhhhh, vacation in Ohio. It's really green.

And it's unusually cool too. Slight breeze and not much humidity. This year the farmer's field is soybeans and not corn so we have a really good view of the deer that come out to graze daily.

 

I've been fishing in the neighbor's pond with the boys and caught a bass :)

They are liking the fireflies too. Now, they are anxiously waiting for the grass to dry out some more so they can enjoy Grandma's go-cart without destroying the grass.

 

We went to a rib fest (small town rib fest but nevertheless delicious) and tonight we are probably going to hit the drive-in. Because there isn't much to do in small town Ohio. Except relax. And be on your computers.....

Sarah is working on her internship writing; Annie is wondering where her tranquilty went and where all these crazy cousins appeared from; and Kim is exploring all of the options for the most cost efficient way to get us to Cedar Point.

 

Really? I have to get in the car for an hour ride to a crowded amusement park in the heart of summer. Yes, I do - because we can't wait to hear "enjoy your ride at Cedar Point, America's Roller Coast" one more time. I can't promise that I'll attempt the Dragster

but I might be brave enough for the GateKeeper.

Keyword: might......don't count on it.

 

Maybe I need to go with what Sean says all the time, YOLO! Or, if you can't beat 'em, join 'em.

 

On the road again......

How is it possible that I haven't blogged yet in July? Well, I've been busy. Busier than usual. You know, summer busy that involves juggling kid schedules/ working your part-time job/ and keeping them from getting too booooorrrreeeed. We had friends visit near the end of June and then shortly thereafter we hit the road to New Orleans. We spent the 4th of July weekend with tons of friends (and some family visiting too). If someone had told me last 4th of July that I would be spending 2013's celebration in a campground in Covington, LA with my best friend and her family I would have told you that the notion was impossible. I'm learning nothing is impossible. We shared lots of laughter; enjoyed plenty of food; cooled off in the waters of a Bouga Falaya tributary; and loved every minute. Golf cart ride anyone?

Now that Maggie is finishing off her summer testing, we are heading toward family in Mansfield, Ohio. Yep, another road trip. Just me, four kids and the dog.....oil change, check; tire pressure, check; wash and detail, check; full gas tank, check. There is more laughter to share; food to enjoy; and cool waters of Grandma's pool -- along with cousins to hang with; a pond to fish in; and go-cart rides. So while affording a trip to Hawaii or the like is impossible at this point (much to the kids dismay), vacations and memory-making are possible.

Praying for safe travels as we add three more states to the ones we have navigated --- adding Arkansas, Tennessee, and Kentucky. First Stop - Jackson, TN here we come

TX Camping -the New Braunfels edition

Or maybe I should call it 'the camping trip that almost wasn't.'

 Last Friday, we packed up the trusty Suburban and headed south five hours to New Braunfels. First stop Mountain Breeze Campground....."um, no -we don't have a reservation; the guy on the phone told us "first come, first served." And you don't take dogs???? There is a dog on your LOGO!" Oh crap. Things got tense as we discovered that dogs aren't allowed as a general rule. (GAH.....we have no problem boarding him or getting a dog sitter had we known.) So we decided that we would check every single area as we drove back toward town with a hotel stay as a last resort.

Rocky Beach had a spot! (time noted: 6pm) They made it clear that about 1000 people would be loading into the river steps from our spot but we were low on options so we simply said yes. Employees strolled by and saw the dog and the first thing we unloaded and tied up was Fritz. We didn't hide him. We unloaded everything in the HOT buggy camping spot and started assembling tents. THEN, the lady comes over and says "oh, you have a dog? we don't allow dogs. You have to leave; we will give you a refund." Did you feel the earth stop spinning????????? Collin had to turn around and decompress before he went postal; I stood there frozen with the tent poles; the kids were SILENT; somewhere an explosion happened because somehow we handled it calmly and simply started tossing things back in the Suburban as Collin started tying gear back onto the luggage rack. What a blessing in disguise.

Two miles down we stopped at a Mom&Pop campground that had a dog sitting out on the grass. So we were hopeful. Collin went in to ask about sites available and quickly came out to converse with a guy on the porch. I could read the man's lips...."let me see him." He wanted to meet Fritz. Before he even got to pet him, the guy saw Fritz's sweet face and how anxious Fritz was to give him some luvin' and he said "come on in." We set up camp 50yds. from the general store, Koozies bar with bands each night, beach volleyball, and horseshoes. We were able to rent our toobs (spelled correctly) from them and they shuttled us up to the drop off. The friendly couple had just bought it a year ago; re-did the camp sites and upgraded the grounds. They were the nicest people and the staff was super friendly too. So, by 8:30pm, we were set to chill. At a site that was a lot cooler and LESS buggy than Rocky Beach. With fireflies = awesome.

We did away with cell phones and time. Who knew what time it was? We enjoyed hot dogs, smores, eggs, sausage, toast, burgers, and more smores. ('the evolution of the toasting marshmallows' post coming soon). We went through a jar of peanut butter in less than 24hrs. And it was all good. Warm, but good. As rustic as I get - insert porta-potties and no showers. Immaculate porta-potties with sanitizer so it wasn't terrible. And at least we had the river for tubing; it's sorta like a shower, right? Brushing your teeth using a cup of water, no problem.

Tubing was fine. The water was cold yet refreshing and I managed to carry my camera double-bagged in a Ziploc and grocery bag so I was able to get some nice pictures. The scenery was beautiful. I got stuck on rocks a bunch and the crowd was younger than we had hoped (smoking, bad language, ridiculous music) but we took it in stride and had fun.

Amanda's quote of the weekend was "I need band-aids, aloe, and OFF." And that about sums it up. Camping in Texas does involve wearing OFF but I won't complain because anytime I wake myself up snoring in a hammock it is a good day!

Ol' River Hideaway will see us again :)

(.....will post pics soon......having issues with uploading from the camera/ desktop is in the shop)

ONLY for my son!

We got the news........Ian has been drafted to the Dallas Cowboys for his football team. REALLY?!? While most parents would be thrilled with this, especially since we live in Cowboy country and could have overlapping fan wear/gear/bling, but I am not one of those people. I AM NOT a Cowboys fan. Never have been. It could have been ANY other team (besides the Atlanta Falcons) in the entire National Football League and I would have been ok with it.

So for this season, I will be sporting a Cowboys visor or hat......the cheapest I can find on clearance......and solid navy, white or gray shirts this season. I even have a gray sweatshirt with a navy football on the front that will work :)

For my SON's sake, I say GO COWBOYS

 

I had a plan......then I found out that he will stay with this team until he goes to middle school. HUH??? Oh geez, and I thought typing this post was giving me hives. It's gonna be a long road.