Monday, October 24, 2011

Lil G's Baptism

Less than a month ago, Lil G asked if he could be baptized. My heart melted. I pray daily that I don't screw up royally with God entrusting me in raising these little men. I know that I am raising future men and it is so important to me that they know Jesus. I strive daily to go beyond comfort and personal boundaries when it comes to being their mommy. It's moments like this when my heart is filled and I feel like all the daily sacrifices are so worth it.  Thank you Lord for blessing me with these beautiful babies. Thank you for guiding me and teaching me how to be a compassionate, loving mama full of grace. Thank you for my lil' delights!

Saturday, October 22, 2011

My brother's Wedding

Last week we were busy with my brother's wedding.  It was awesome to catch up with family and be part of my brother's special day.  On this lazy Saturday, I thought I'd post some pictures... Enjoy!
dolled up for the occasion
Beautiful cake!
The boys with their great-grandma
Welcoming our new sister to our crazy family!
My handsome little brother (the groom) waiting for his bride :o)

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Friday, October 7, 2011

New Milestones!

I fondly remember when the boys were little, we would celebrate every little milestone.  When they were babies, things like "first smile, first time sitting up, first time crawling, walking..." were such a big deal! As the boys grew, it seems like there weren't so many milestones anymore.  Of course there are some (we celebrated going to first grade recently with Lil Dude, and Nani decided to get baptized), it just seems to not happen so often as when it's the baby's first years.  You know?

So, when we went to our well check yesterday, I was excited that the doctor mentioned that Nani will need to see an eye doctor. Since my sweetie and I wore glasses, we knew that it was inevitable that the boys would probably have to too.  It was just a matter of when.  I totally know my little guy will be rocking those glasses!

Then, lil Dude declared he wanted to learn to ride without training wheels.  With the gorgeous weather we have been having in Arizona, today was a perfect day to do just that.  I am so grateful that my amazing friend Julie decided to join us.  It was a great excuse to be able to see her and the girls too :o)

I managed to take video of Lil Dude's first ride all on his own.  He learned on the FIRST DAY!  Talk about determination!  So proud!



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Wednesday, September 28, 2011

Homeschool year 2011-2012

I am finally getting around to posting this year's plans even though we began way back in August! This year we decided to enroll in a homeschool enrichment program and the boys are really enjoying it. They attend one day a week and their classes include: Arizona's plants and animals, Public speaking, Digital animation, PE, Music, and much more. This gives me a chance to (sort of) plan the rest of the week and prepare lessons. Although lately, I have using this time to volunter at hubby's school instead.

For math, we began using Teaching Textbooks and we LOVE it! I enjoy the fact that I don't have to do the lessons anymore and now I provide more of a support system. We were really beginning to butt heads in math and this helped a WHOLE lot.

We are also doing some online coursework through our local school district and that's helping too! Lil Dude is doing math and Nani is doing Language Arts. What is really awesome about this is that we get to spend more time doing our sonlight history curriculum when they complete their studies. I almost feel that I split myself into two :-)

For science we are in a co-op studying sharks. It is a ten week curriculm which will take us through November. We are also in cub scouts so our plates are pretty full.

Every year I begin to wonder if this will be our last year homeschooling. In the meantime, I make sure to enjoy the moment and realize what a blessing it is to be able to teach my boys!

Monday, September 26, 2011

Women of Faith

This weekend I got to attend the Women of Faith conference in Phx with my awesome sister. It was such a great experience! Not only have I been applying many of the principles I've learned at the conference, I feel refreshed with a new perspective in life.

On Friday morning, we began with wonderful music by the WOF worship team. Then, Andy Andrews and Patsy Clairmont took the stage with great principles to live by.  Patsy gave us homework and that is to wake up each morning and say "yes" to Jesus and "thank you." Most importantly, it is to say "no" to the people and things that would take away from our important priorities.  To help gauge whether it is ok to say no, the litmus test is, "if it divides your heart and use up your energy (not enough for your family), it is a good indication that you need to say no." I must admit that was the hardest lesson for me.  But I really like her next advice, "no, is a COMPLETE sentence!" I love that. As many women probably can relate, I feel that I would need to justify my "no" and feel terribly guilty about it. Her last piece of wisdom that will be my new mantra, is that "your will is stronger than your emotion."

Andy Andrews was equally enlightening! I have been more aware of what I am exposing myself to as a result of his message. It is so true about how whatever you take in is what comes out. I think of all the television shows out there. I would much rather read a great book than mindlessly watch t.v. knowing full well it is not helping me. On a side note, (I easily get distracted lol) have you seen Lowes' new commercial? It is so cute that it always gets me all choked up. Well their new tagline is "never stop improving." Andy Andrews' session really makes me think that way. There is so much about myself I would like to improve. Thanks to his session, I am definitely going to start reading much more :-)

We had a break for lunch and continued for our sessions. Our lunch was so cute I had to snap a picture.

We returned that evening to more worship and what would be the higlight of the event for me. We got to hear Brenda Warner speak! Her whole family was in the audience supporting her. As I mentioned in my blog post here, I recently read her book. While much of what she spoke about was in the book, I felt we were sitting around the table sipping coffee as she told her story. I love her transparency and humilty! Nobody is perfect and she sure does not claim to be. Though, I wouldn't mind having her as a mommy mentor. I mean, did you know she has 7 kids?! I have 2 and most days I think I am going to be  insane. I would love to pick her brain! She mentioned a saying that she makes her kids repeat each morning. I know it comes from the scripture Deuteronomy 28 in reference to blessings. So cute! Now I have my boys recite their life verses each morning. I picked one for each one of our boys that relates to them. For our oldest, it is 2 Timothy 1:7 NLT "For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline."

For little dude, because he has a gift of speaking...(he talks a lot) :-) it is... Proverbs 31:8 NLT
"Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves; ensure justice for those being crushed."

Saturday at WOF was wonderful and inspiring as well. It was my shopping day too and I came home with goodies for all three of my favorite boys (my sweetie got a book too). I am grateful for my sweetie for taking the days off so that I can attend. Also, thanks to booksneeze for the free tickets!





Sunday, September 18, 2011

Hermie the Common Catepillar

Tonight while putting the boys to bed, I promised them a special bed time story if they would get to bed early. I had just ordered this book through Booksneeze as an e-book and was anxious to try it out on our e-reader.

Hermie the Common Catepillar is a classic Max Lucado book. I was introduced to Lucado's books just last year when a homeschool friend was having a book sale. We purchased a few of his books and found them to be great children's stories that incorporated Christian principles. In Hermie: the Common Catepillar, Hermie questions why he can't be special like the others. He feels that he is so common and because of his relationship with God, he communicates this problem with Him. I love how God answers Hermie's question the same way each time. He is told by God that he is loved and that God was not finished with him yet. I feel that this book is a great example of how we are all created for a special purpose and how we do not need to compare ourselves to others. Further, it teaches patience for our little ones.  I loved the expression in my little one's eyes as he learns Hermie's special dream fulfilled greater than he imagined.  This story is a great read and my boys loved it. We give it five stars for the beautiful illustrations and even more, the lesson and conversation that followed after reading the story. 

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Wednesday, September 14, 2011

One Call Away

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I just finished reading One Call Away by Brenda Warner and was so fascinated about the resiliency and faith she had throughout her life.  A few years ago my sweetie brought home a gift he received which was a book about Kurt Warner.  As I thumbed through the book, I loved learning about his passion for Christ, his family, and his career. That was when I truly became a die hard Cardinals fan, and I watched how his leadership brought the Cardinals to the Super Bowl.  After he retired, he was part of my favorite show, Dancing with the Stars. I remember  shaking my head and thought “How could any wife be ok with their husband dancing with a near naked woman like that?” You would  have to read the book, because I love how she explains her growth there.

I always say, “behind every good man, there is a great woman” and I knew that Brenda would have a story to go along with Kurt’s amazing story.  One Call Away details how Brenda answered every call, as devastating it may be (her son’s tragic injury, betrayal and divorce, and the passing of her parents) with a faith so profound that it made me question my own. Brenda writes this book in such a candid and transparent way, I felt that she was sitting down having coffee with me, telling her life story. While reading the book, there were times that I would laugh… throw my hand over my mouth in shock... and then cry.

I crave gleaning wisdom from Christian women who are quick to admit that they aren’t perfect, but that they are loved and learning from our Perfect Lord.  It was like Brenda was giving me words of wisdom through her book and I could learn from her experiences. Most importantly, I will always remember that when it seems things are spinning out of control…God is in control.  What stood out to me most is the difference from “needing a man” and “wanting a man.” As a domestic violence advocate, I have seen so many women who thought they “needed” a man in their life and therefore would withstand all sorts of abuse.  I pray that women everywhere can learn that difference.

Her chapters  “Giant Letdowns” and “Phoenix Rising” was healing for me personally.  I have gone through the pain of a miscarriage and it gave me sense of hope and trust that our God is a God of restoration. It may not seem like anything we had planned or even thought about, but our Lord will restore.  In His time, in His hour. I would just  need to surrender and Trust in Him so that my Lord can take over.

I give the book five stars. I really enjoyed Brenda Warner’s book and now will always be ready to answer God’s divine Calling at any time.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Sunday, August 28, 2011

Inked

For my birthday this summer, I wanted a tattoo.  I know, I know it sounds crazy but it was something I had in mind for quite a while.  So... This year I did some research.. A LOT of research and mostly had to do with things like safety, referrals, placement... You name it, I researched it.  I also asked a lot of questions from people who had tattoos.  Things like, regrets, what they would do differently, etc. I loved learning about why people got their permanent inks, and what they would do differently.

You see, I knew I wanted something extremely signifcant and special.  I wanted something to represent my adorable husband of eleven years. But how can I choose what to wear to the grave when I can't even choose what outfit to wear each day? I knew it would have to be something that I absolutely loved.

I thought a lot about what I loved. I love my family and I adore my hubby.  Also, I love birds. My love for birds originates from the scripture found in Matthew 6:26 that deals with worry.  "Look at the birds. They don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns, for your heavenly Father feeds them. And aren’t you far more valuable to him than they are?"

In AZ we have many beautiful birds, and love to see them soaring.  I get so excited and point them out to my boys every time.  I was memorized when I saw the rare bald eagle while fishing this summer. When there is a bird around, I love to stop and think about how God made each one. I am so facinated with the freedom of birds.  It makes me think how effortlessly they fly and soar through our vast skies.  My theory is that it is so easy fo fly when you have no worries :-).

One bird that has captivated me is the Quetzal.  It is a beautiful bird found in Guatemala (where my hubby is from).  The quetzal has gorgeous, striking colors and a long, long tail. I have never seen anything like it.  The quetzal in particular has been used as a symbol of liberty. This is because it has been said that it would kill itself when in captivity or caged. I relate this to my freedom in Christ. Held in bondage or captivity is like suicide. You see where I am going here?

So, I decided what I wanted was a quetzal. A quetzal with my sweetie's name on it. I went into a recommended tatto place and chatted briefly with the artist.  She smiled and said she knew exactly what bird I was talking about. 

We made an appointment to go over the artwork. I had in my hands a whole bunch of images I googled. I wanted it to look dainty and feminine. I thought I would have to walk in and walk her through what I liked and didn't liked. I went into her office and found her in the midst of sketching some ideas.  I was so amazed! I didn't even have to make a single change. She knew exactly what I was looking for and her sketch was perfect!

I came in the next day for my appointment nervous and excited. I knew it would hurt, but how bad? She estimated it would take 3 hours. I laid on the table, and  braced myself. When I heard the sound of the machine, I cringed. I hate needles and here I am getting a tattoo? Man I am nuts! Once she began, I thought, hmmm not so bad.  But now there was no going back. I was going to sit here for the next three hours. That's longer than a movie, oh my gosh.  2 1/2 hours later, I didn't think I could take it anymore.  It hurt so dang bad! That is when she said, "Ok, you are all done now." What? Seriously? Thank God! She gave me a mirror and I took a look.  I remember watching the reaction of people who got their tattoos on the LA Ink show.  I would watch it as part of my "research." They always freaked out and would even hug their tattoo artist they just met.  I always thought it was cheesy.  But when I saw mine, I reacted no different. I squealed with delight and hugged her. I guess I am cheesy too:-)

My sweetie snapped a picture of the "fresh tattoo." I love it!


Saturday, August 27, 2011

Women of Faith in AZ

I am sooo excited! Last year, I had the exciting opportunity to attend the Women of Faith Conference.  It was a whopping 75 dollars, however, well worth it. I so wanted to attend this year again and when I saw that Women of Faith was offering tickets for bloggers, I threw in my name, never once thinking I would actually be one of the lucky ones chosen.  You can imagine my surprise when I found in my mailbox two tickets to this year's conference! I am so excited! Also, we have started our new homeschool year and I am gearing up to sharing some of the activities we are doing.  Stay tuned...

Sunday, June 12, 2011

Faith SOAP

It has been awhile.  I know.  I don’t want to have fill in all the details, just have been very busy!  My SOAP today just made me feel like it is something that needed to be shared.

S: Hebrews 11:6 And without Faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to Him must believe He exists and that He rewards anyone who earnestly seeks Him.

O: In this chapter we are reminded of all the people in the Bible who had faith. They were commended for the actions they committed that showed that faith.  Abel, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, Jacob, Joseph, Moses, etc.  Even Rahab the prostitute was mentioned.  These are people who also didn’t always make the right choices yet they are given to us as examples of commendable faith.  Amazing isn’t it?  Sometimes Christians think that true Christians have to be perfect and that is so untrue.  I love reading how the most impactful people are those that are just plain human.

A: I am so grateful that we are reminded how important it is to have faith though we must understand that even those who had the greatest of faith did not receive all that was promised (Hebrews 11:39).   I will be different today by reading this because I am going to remind myself that it is important to have faith even when the enemy tries to plant lies and doubts in my head.  This particular reading helped me because last night I was beginning to worry about sending my oldest to camp.  Will he be ok? What if he gets lost? What if no one watches him like I watch him? What if he doesn’t make any friends? What if… this? What if … that?  It was such a sinking and terrible feeling.  This reading helped me remember that I must have faith.  Sending him to camp is the best investment of $250 we could ever spend.  He will receive an experience he will forever remember. My Lord knows my concerns and I must have faith that he will see me through that week.  Thank you Jesus!

Prayer: Lord, thank you for that whip of reminder that it is not for me to worry but to have faith.  Thank you for providing me examples of what faith is and how to have it.  I hope that one day I will also be commended for having great faith through everything.  I love you Lord, you are so amazing! In Jesus Name, Amen.

Friday, March 4, 2011

Homeschool Week in Review

The Homeschool Mother's Journal

In my life this week...

I’m making progress in my personal Bible study and SOAP time.  I get really hard on myself when I get angry easily.  I know that it’s more about making progress and not perfection.  I’m not perfect but I can work every day to get better and better!


In our homeschool this week...

Lil Dude didn’t have to do school because he wasn’t feeling well. 

Lil G decided that he wanted to start school earlier (9am) so that he could finish earlier (about 2pm) and have more playing time.  I am proud of his initiative though it means that my mommy time is either cut shorter or I’d have to wake up earlier.  That’s ok though, I am super proud of his perseverance!

We also celebrated Dr. Seuss’ birthday by reading every book we own written by him. 


Places we're going and people we're seeing...

We went on our Cub Scout geocaching field trip today! I love taking the boys on field trips to experience the beautiful wonders that our Lord created just for us to enjoy!


My favorite thing this week was...

Though my little one was sick this week, my favorite part was cuddling with him! I also thanked God that I wouldn’t have to worry about “calling in sick” from work to care for my little one, or wondering if I should send my child to school.  I know many moms have to face that turmoil and it breaks my heart because I understand it is very hard. I thanked God for that privilege and choice that we have and prayed for mommies who have to go through that.


What's working/not working for us...

The Handwriting without Tears curriculum is really working wonders! Lil G’s handwriting is like night and day. We are currently working on our second book now and it is a bit more difficult but that’s ok.  Trying to break old habits is very hard and I try to remind him that you don’t form new habits over night.

Homeschool questions/thoughts I have...

How does a mom manage their day with homeschooling, cleaning, cooking, grocery shopping, etc.? I feel that I am always behind!

A photo, video, link, or quote to share...

 Lil Dude working on HWT

Lil Dude working on HWT Smile

The Homeschool Mother’s Journal link up is hosted by The Homeschool Chick. You can click the link to see how you can participate or to read other link ups.

Tuesday, March 1, 2011

Book Review: Same Life, New Story

I am so excited! I completed my first book to review. The most amazing thing is that I will forever remember this book as my first one blogger book review and how it personally impacted me. 

Same Life, New Story book

Same Life, New Story by Jan Silvious is a 10-week Bible Study for Women.  I loved the women in the bible stories that Jan Silvious chose to make her point.  There was Esther (my personal favorite), Naomi, Hannah, Leah, Deborah and even ones I wasn’t too familiar with like Jehosheba, Anna, and Naamon’s servant girl. Each one of these women left a legacy because of their willingness to take risks and change their life story.  While the biblical stories in the book helped me think about the way my own personal story is being written, I especially liked the modern stories that were included as well.  I am glad that the author chose to include parallel’s to the biblical women heroes with modern women heroes.

The personal reflection and group discussion questions were helpful at the end of each chapter.  It makes a great option for one to complete the book on their own (like I did) or with a group.  As you complete each personal reflection, it allows you to dig deep within your soul and to pull out the weeds that are inhibiting your own personal growth to develop a positive new story for your life. 

I give this book 5 out of 5 stars.  I loved the way it made me think. It made me think about my own life and gave me a fresh look at how God is the author of my story.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Monday, February 28, 2011

Melting Mama Moment

Unfortunately, we've been hit again.  This weekend my Lil Dude came down with croup.  It's been a long time since he had croup and the last time he was sick (which was only less than a couple weeks ago), it wasn't as bad as what he has come down with now.  I feel like I have a toddler again and I am certainly enjoying the moment.  He only wants mama and nothing else will do.  While I feel so badly that he doesn't feel well, I am loving being needed and snuggling with my "baby."

Last night, while we were cuddling on the couch, he looked at me in the eye and said, "Mama, I'm so glad to have you taking care of me. You are the best."

I melted right then and there.

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Wednesday, February 23, 2011

Salt Writing

 

We’ve been working our way through the Handwriting Without Tears Curriculum and I noticed Lil Dude still having trouble on where to start his letters.  The HWT curriculum has a great CD with a song that reminds you to start your letters at the top and we sing that all the time.  But even though we sing it, point to the Happy Face on our door corner, and much more, Lil Dude always wants to start his letters at the bottom!

So, I decided to break away from writing on paper and go back to some preschool basics.  I brought out a cookie sheet and poured salt on there.  This was way fun.  To erase, you only have to shake the cookie sheet just a little.  It reminded me of the old school Etch a Sketch toys, only better!

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Lil Dude had fun with the salt cookie sheet activity.  He even says he doesn’t remember doing this when he was smaller!

Which serves as my homeschool reminder for the week.  Just because my kiddos aren’t preschool aged anymore, it doesn’t mean that all those fun activities I did when they were smaller doesn’t apply anymore.  I can always bring back the basics when I need them!

Thursday, February 17, 2011

Homeschool Frog Unit Study

This week the boys and I worked on a Frog and Toad Unit Study and it was a whole lotta fun!
We read:














and completed a study on Frogs with this fun activity book and Frog model:


Lil G and Lil Dude spent an hour putting this model of a Frog together…
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Lil Dude also helped me make a map on the feelings of Toad throughout the stories.

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And began to write about his favorite Frog and Toad story.




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He mentions that he did not like the ending of the story called, “A swim” because the way his own friend laughed at him.  So he decided to tell me a new ending for the story in which Frog apologizes for laughing at Toad in his bathing suit and they begin to read a book together Smile.


Lil G worked on a booklet on Parts of a Frog to put in his lap book.

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Lil Dude also did math addition problem with buttons that correlated with the story, “The Lost Button” from the frog and toad book.

Lastly, we watched videos about frogs in Arizona and learned more about a very special frog that is near and dear to my heart.  Which is called the Coqui.  This is a special Puerto Rican frog that can be heard throughout Puerto Rico.



A fun homeschool week for us!  We more than made up for being sick last week.  I think after the kind of week we had last week, we were anxious and ready to get back into our homeschool routine!

Wednesday, February 16, 2011

Chuletas… Mami Style

We call my grandma Mami and I think about her often. 
I had some pork chops in the freezer and I wanted to make some pork chops that I remembered my grandma would make when I was little. I remembered some of the basics, she had pork chops, a yummy gooey tomato sauce to go on top and some veggies.  Unfortunately, my ma doesn’t remember my grandma making this so I was on my own to try to recreate… and I am glad I did!  This came out delicious!
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Ok, so I don’t have a fancy camera to take good food porn but this isn’t a food blog so I’m not too worried about it Smile.
Ingredients:
Pork chops
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Bag of frozen mixed vegetables
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Salt, Garlic Powder, 1 packets from each of the Sazon boxes here (found in ethnic aisle of grocery store), and tomato sauce.
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A jar of Sofrito is optional.  You can also find this in the ethnic section of the grocery store.  I like to add it in when I make Puerto Rican food.  I know fresh is better and there are a number of recipes out there on how to make this.  For now, I’m still trying to get comfy in the kitchen so when I can use premade stuff, I do!
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First rinse off and pat dry the pork chops.  Then season with salt and garlic powder. My ma uses garlic salt but I didn’t have any!
Then fry the pork chops in the pan.
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After nice and brown, put them on the plate and tent with a foil (a trick I learned from Rachael Ray).
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Next, make the yummy sauce in the same pan that you just fried the pork chops in.  Add the tomatoes (chopped), tomato sauce, 1 packet from each of the sazon boxes, and a couple spoonful's of Sofrito.
Bring back the pork chops and let simmer with the sauce.
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Start to pour out the bag of frozen veggies and realize that there are peas in them! Ack! I don’t remember peas being in my grandma’s pork chops so I decide to pick out every single one of them.
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Then go ahead and them to the yummy pork chops simmering away.
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Serve over white rice and use leftover throwaway plates from the party so that you won’t have anymore dishes to wash Smile with tongue out. Make sure to scoop up all the sauce!
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The verdict… YUM!
And now, missing my grandma like crazy!

Monday, February 14, 2011

Weekend Recap: Birthday Party Weekend!


It was a big hit this weekend with Lil G’s Birthday Party.  He wanted a video game theme so this is what we came up with:
DSCF6381An Xbox controller piñata…
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DSCF6438Birthday cake that looks like the original Nintendo controller…
DSCF6466After the games and cake we came outside to show Lil G his surprise…
DSCF6469A Game Truck for Lil G, Lil Dude and all his friends! There were close to 20 kids inside the truck playing at ONE TIME!  Amazing!
DSCF6480Lil G was one happy birthday boy!
We love making birthday parties very special for our boys.  One of our sayings is, “We asked God for them, they didn’t ask for us.”  We are so blessed and thankful to have these beautiful boys that God has trusted in our care while on earth. We want more than anything in the world for them to feel special! With that being said, our boys are very humble and always is so gracious and thankful for what we do for them which is why we so carefully plan and budget for their birthdays!
I hope you had a great weekend tooSmile
Happy Valentine’s Day!

Friday, February 11, 2011

Quick and Easy Valentine Freebie

Keattikorn / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Recently I wrote about how love songs can really help set the tone and help get you in the mood.

So, I couldn’t pass up a great opportunity to send him a couple of inspirational songs to show him I was thinking about him. It was very easy to do and you can too!

Amazon is offering a $2 credit when you gift someone a song. The code is VDAYMP3S and is valid until 2/14.  

What I love about it is you can send a personal love note with the song.

It’s quick, it’s easy, and its FREE!

What songs will you send?

Thursday, February 10, 2011

Chore Chart System

Has this ever happened to you?  Did you ever buy something that was a huge must-have for your homeschool room and to find that you can’t quite find a way to make good use of it? 
Meet my “I Absolutely Must Have THIS Pocket Folder” system.
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It’s been sadly hanging blank for a while now and it’s time to pretty this baby up!
I am thankful for all the inspirations I’ve found on the bloggy world.
Today I’m drooling over this chore chart system.  I love that all the printables are available for free and it looks so adorable!
The boys and I have lots of catching up to do after being sick this week.  If only I had a great chore system and the house wouldn’t be in the sad state of chaos it is in. But I don’t live in the world of “if only.”  I don’t look back! I look forward! So I am off to sit with the boys to come up with what our system will be and I’m ready to get started on implementing it.
Do you have a solid chore system? Is it easy to reinforce? How do you stay consistent and discipline with it?
Would love to hear from you!

Wednesday, February 9, 2011

What Teachers Make Final Moviebk2 0001

WOW! There aren't any words to explain how much I love this video...


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What my man wants…

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*Image: Idea go / FreeDigitalPhotos.net
This week in the Be My Valentine Marriage challenge, Courtney asks, “Do you know what your husband wants? Ask him!”
It’s kind of funny how difficult it was to ask my sweetie this. I tried multiple times in different ways to ask this.
Me: Baby, what do you want?
Sweetie: Huh? What do you mean what do I want?
Me: Well, like… what is it I can do to make you feel loved?
Sweetie: Oh you know what I want!
Me: No really, baby is there anything else I can do?
Sweetie: Hmmm… let me think about that
Ok, so this is going to take some extra thought on my part. I know there is something that my sweetie has been dying for but I haven’t gotten around to doing that for quite awhile…



Gasp! NO! Not that silly reader! There is no problem in that area, thank you very much! Where is your mind at?!

It’s actually Vietnamese Spring Rolls.

Have you ever had those before?  They are amazing! The thing is, I KNOW how to make them. In fact, my sweetie says they are the BEST he has ever had! Here’s the problem. It literally takes hours to make.  Not the kind of hours where you cook something, throw all the ingredients in a big pot and let simmer and all you have to do is check often to stir once in awhile. Hours as in the hands-on prep time takes hours. Especially since those darn delicate rice papers always seem to rip the first ten times I start rolling them together.

Now, I’m a good Christian girl and you won’t hear me saying bad words.  But making Vietnamese Spring Rolls can probably even make Mel Gibson cringe (I don’t know why he came to mind when I thought about someone who says bad words. I guess his ranting on the news stuck to my head).  I’ll have to make a note to put ear plugs on the boys as I make these. Yikes!

It also takes more than $20 to spend in all the ingredients. Now that’s not a very frugal dinner is it? It’s only an appetizer so I’d have to make something to go along with that! 
At our local Vietnamese Restaurant, a batch of 3 spring rolls cost $3.50.  Oh, and did I mention they take about 5 minutes to order them? 

So you see why I don’t like making them? Oh, I know what you are thinking. Buy the Vietnamese restaurant ones and then put them on a platter and pretend like I made ‘em.  That’s not going to work.  My sweetie knows my spring rolls.  And according to him, there ain’t nothing like mine.

A challenge is a challenge. And I wanna make my man happy and feel oh so loved! He will literally faint when he walks in and smells the aroma of the Spring Rolls.  I’ve done everything else, and why not make this Valentine’s super special for him? Vietnamese Spring Rolls, here I come!

Pictures and update to follow…

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