Tales of a Monkey, a Bit, and a Bean

Birthday Boy

2012-01-31T13:34:00.002-05:00

Saturday morning was Gabriel's birthday. The kids all got up early and pestered Lissie and they all had breakfast together. After breakfast, it was time to open family gifts. I love how the girls are all sitting there waiting so nicely. :o)

Gabriel was in his element, and as I have found to be typical, wanted to play with each gift he opened instead of just opening all his gifts and then playing.

I can't believe how much these two have grown. It astounds me.

And look at Miss Gracie. She's getting to be a big girl too!

He's such a plucky, fun little guy. He couldn't wait for Uncle Paul to arrive (or get up in the morning) so he could whisk him off to his room to play trains. I do believe his obsession with Thomas is quite common to most little boys. ;o)

Lordy but we have a cute bunch of kiddos! :o) Mom was in her element because all her grandchildren were in one place and she could visit with them all at once. :o)

Meanwhile, Ellie is feeling much better. This morning seemed to be fairly touch-and-go for a bit, but now she's fine. She had a decent lunch (milk, scrambled egg, pasta, tuna and some clementine) and is now napping. Whew. Now to hope this bug by-passes the rest of us. :fingers crossed:

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Sparklies:

1. Ellie feeling better.
2. Beautiful, glorious sunshine! With any luck, Ellie will be well enough to go out for our regular walk tomorrow morning. I've missed it.
3. Fred and George keeping me company.
4. Holly snoring away on the recliner. Things are calm and peaceful here. Ahhhhh...

No milestones.

Better...I Think

2012-01-30T19:31:00.002-05:00

This morning started out dicey. Ellie began the day with dry heaves and then such hunger she could hardly stand it. She screamed and screeched when I told her no milk so, against my better judgement, I caved. Yeah, bad idea that. :oS Within ten minutes of guzzling half a sippy of milk, and snarfing a bunch of Crispix, the child was leaning over the side of her high chair, being sick all over again. I knew better, and blamed myself. I wouldn't let her having anything other than bland food items and clear liquid for the rest of the day.

She spent the majority of the day in my lap. I cuddled and snuggled and managed to get some lunch made for us--green monster for me, plain pasta and red jello for her--and cuddled some more. I was trying to keep her awake so we could get Lil off the bus around 1:30. She made it to 1:00. Drat. I carried her sleeping form to the bus stop and back--she never even stirred--but the minute I put her in her crib, she awoke. Super. A one hour nap...when she's sick.

She was better this afternoon, running around and playing and had more pasta and some peas for dinner. I do believe the crisis has passed and I'm now waiting for the rest of us to come down with it. Goody! :eye roll:

Meanwhile, Lil is as hale and hardy as can be with no signs of anything sick related. I'm wondering if Beanie's illness is what Lil had, only Lil was able to monitor her food intake so she didn't become ill. I rather hope so because that means Lily has already had it and that would be one less family member to get it.

Brien had to work late today and still isn't home. Because I had Beanie on my lap most of the day, very little was done with regards to housekeeping so the kitchen is a wreck. I want to get that done before he gets in...never mind, he just walked in.

But, the kitchen still needs to be cleaned and Lil's lunch needs to be packed. Much excitement for my evening, no?

The Fun is Over

2012-01-29T19:08:00.001-05:00

We visited Jessie and her family this weekend to help Gabe-man celebrate his fourth birthday. I have loads to share on that--later.

Ellie didn't eat all weekend. She had a fever Thursday (102.3), and then a low-grade one Friday (99.1) and nothing yesterday or today. But, she didn't eat.

We now know why. She threw-up all over herself in the car (it was vile and we had to ride with it), and then again at the dinner table. I'm fairly certain more must be coming. The baby is ravenous, but throwing-up. You know how it is. :sigh:

I'm off to help take care of her. Wish us luck tonight. :oS

Late to the Party

2012-01-25T13:15:00.000-05:00

This horrific looking thing was my lunch this afternoon. It looks utterly foul and really, when I first saw the recipe I was beyond skeptical. Who in their right mind would voluntarily drink this?!?

Yes, I'm late to the green smoothie game, but today I did it--and, how happy am I to have done so!

It seems everyone begins the new year with their resolutions fresh in their minds. They start strong and then, sometime around March, April or May (or, in my case last year, June) they begin forget about them. But, right now, they're still at the fore of most people's brains, and so, I've been seeing recipes for "green smoothies" and "green monsters" everywhere. I've even pinned a couple of likely looking recipes, and today, decided it was time.

This bad boy has:
4 cups spinach
1 T peanut butter
1/2 cup Greek style vanilla yogurt (I used Cabot's 2% lowfat)
1 cup vanilla almond milk (never have used the stuff before--it's quite tasty!)
1 sliced banana (I sliced a couple of bananas into baggies last night and froze them), frozen

That's it. I know I enjoy all those items individually, but, together? With spinach?!? Even while blending it all together I was still apprehensive. But, Dani had tried it and told me it was good, and I have a tendency to trust her (who knows why...;oP), so I popped a straw in the glass and took a sip.

And then, I kept going. I think I drank non-stop, but I'm not sure.

It was delicious! And, not in one of those convince yourself it tastes good sort of ways. It really was GOOD. :o) I'll be having another one of those for lunch tomorrow. I think it may be time to play around with spinach and the blender a bit more. ;o)

I've been diligently counting my calories and logging my food choices, and this guy packs quite the nutritional punch for the calorie trade-off at 377 for the whole glass. I'm sure I could slim it down if needed, but why? It works the way it is and I'm already looking forward to lunch tomorrow. :o)

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Sparklies:

1. It was sunny and cold-ish during our walk this morning.

2. Last night's dinner:

Country fried pork. I served it with spinach and the next item,
3. Sour cream biscuits:

The girls and I shared a piece of pork, I had one biscuit and a serving of spinach, and I was full. :o) The biscuits are insanely easy to make. 2 cups of flour, 1 T baking soda, 1 t salt all mixed together. Add in 1 16 oz carton of sour cream and 5 T melted butter. Stir together and drop on baking sheet lined with parchment paper. That's it. They were wonderful!
4. I'm able to run just a little bit more every day.
5. Being brave and drinking something that looks so abominable. ;oP
6. My girls playing together so sweetly this morning. :o)

No milestones.

Oh, and Amy, before I forget, yes, my Baker Creek catalog is here and I've been drooling all over it. :o)

Back to "Normal"

2012-01-24T15:42:00.000-05:00

All is back to "normal" around here, whatever that is. Lil awoke this morning feeling much better (although she still didn't feel up to peanut butter on her toast as she had first thought) so we had a "normal" morning.

I got everyone breakfasted, cleaned the kitchen, cleaned the downstairs bathroom (Lil vacuumed it), and got Lil's pack ready for school.

And yet, in spite of all our industriousness and hard work, we barely made it to the bus stop in time!! The stop was in sight when the bus came down the street. Ack! Thank goodness Ms. Maria loves her kiddos and is patient. :o)

Getting Lil out of the house was good for both of us. It means she's feeling better--and boy howdy was she upset about missing school yesterday--and can return to school, and it means Ellie and I were able to take our morning walk. Yay! I've missed it the past few days. The elliptical is rather like running on a hamster wheel and there's nothing to look at but the screen. It's all rather boring, really. But, outside is wonderful! There are smells (not all of them nice, but most are interesting) and breezes and nips at your nose and sounds and sights. Heck, I think the only sense we don't use when taking our morning walks is taste. ;o) Well, Ellie uses that one as she snarfs down her Cheerios. :oP

All I can seem to think about right now is exercise and eating well. That's my life at the moment and it permeates everything I do and is trickling into my blog life. Yes, this is my journal, but surely I do more interesting things than take walks/jogs, eat food and clean my house. Oh, yes, of course, I cook and grocery shop. Right. ;o)

I've been wracking my brain trying to come up with something more interesting to write about, and I can't find a blasted thing. It must be the time of year. It's January. It's cold-ish (if you can call 56 degrees cold, mind you) and the long slog to spring is upon us. My mind is beginning to wander to yard work and planting and planning, but not quite yet. (Although, I did find this beauty and think I must have it--let the planning commence. ;oP)

At any rate, I'm boring right now. And, you know what, boring might not be such a bad thing.

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Sparklies:

1. A Bean burrito:

Such big eyes. :o)

2. Lily feeling well enough to return to school. Yay!
3. Time spent outdoors walking with Beanie. I didn't run today because my knee started to hurt a bit, and running through the pain just didn't seem like a good idea to me. I'll use the hamster wheel since it's low-impact on my knees.
4. The sun came out after a long, grey weekend. Hooray! The girls will be playing outside this afternoon!
5. Georgie Porgy kitteh pie:

He was just chillin' last night. Look at those eyes. He always has huge pupils like that. I think it's the 'nip. ;o)

6. It was still cloudy and overcast this morning:

No milestones.

Better

2012-01-23T19:28:00.003-05:00

Bitty is feeling better, although she's still not 100%. She is in that horrible, awful, I-feel-better-but-still-feel-sort-of-sick phase where she is nothing but grumpy and crabby to everyone.

Beanie saw her sister lying on the couch and wanted to join her. She loves to snuggle her big sis. Lil wanted none of it and began carrying on. I suggested she move to the black chair. She did, and so did Beanie. Boy howdy does Ellie want to be like her big sister. Boy howdy does her big sister get irritated with her. Ah, families...:eye roll:

I ironed for two hours today (never put off doing something because you don't enjoy it, it'll just pile up until you have to do it and then there will be so much of it you'll be doing it for HOURS) and managed to keep the house fairly clean in spite of having two girlies home. Of course, we also watched TV all. day. long. One of the perks of being home sick, right? ;o)

I realized another perk to being home with the girls. Last night when it came about that Lil was sick and wouldn't be going to school today, I didn't have to call an administrator and find a sub and write sub plans and somehow get those plans to school, and PRAY my kiddos behaved themselves. Nope. I got to stay home and concentrate on my poor sick baby instead of worrying all day. And, should she need to stay home tomorrow, B and I don't have to have the discussion of "Well, I stayed home today, you have to stay home tomorrow. I have xyz thing to do and I can't miss it." It's wonderful to have that freedom and to be where I want and need to be. :o)

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Today's Sparklies:

1. Ibuprofen. Thank goodness for fever reducing drugs. When you top 101 and are chilled, it's a good thing to have.
2. The girls cleaned up the living room and playroom beautifully.
3. Lil feeling better.
4. An amazing Chinese chicken salad for dinner. Mm.

No milestones.

Taking Care of Me

2012-01-22T18:18:00.004-05:00

This is my new salt scrub. I found a pin on Pinterest, I was intrigued, I did it. :o) The jar on the left is about a cup of sea salt, a 1/4 cup coconut oil and 1/4 cup almond oil. The jar on the right is about a cup of sea salt, 1/8 cup olive oil and 3/8 cup almond oil. I added a few drops of skin safe essential oils to each for smell-good purposes. I've not tried them yet, but I have high hopes. My skin is a wreck. I have a lovely condition called keratosis pilaris and I need to exfoliate regularly to help shed the dead skin cells. But...I don't. Of course not. I'm always in a hurry to be done with my shower because there are ten million other things waiting for me when I'm finished.

No more. I'm taking care of ME this year. I take care of my home, my girls, my hubby, and my furbabies, but so often, I neglect myself. But, if I'm not in good shape, who's going to take care of them?

So, once again I'm taking control of my eating and I'm exercising (more on that little revelation in a moment). I'm flossing more than once a month (not quite daily yet, but I'm working up to it), washing my face every night (thank you Kirkland brand face wipes!), and doing my best to get at minimum 7 hours sleep every night.

I'm important too! I just need to remember that. So, the exercise revelation--I actually like it! I forgot all about that, and how good it makes me feel. It's very easy for me to make excuses not to do it, but the thing is, it feels good when I'm done (definitely NOT during some days) and I'm always full of those delicious happy endorphins. So, I'm making a point of taking the time to actually do it. It's easy during the week when the weather is nice (i.e. not precipitating or overly windy) because Bean and I just hit the trail. It's a bit more difficult during the weekends. It's been cold and gross the past two days so I used the dreaded elliptical (who LIES about distance gone!!). I MADE the time. :o) Knowing me, though, I need to make it a part of a weekend routine if I want it to stick. I'm working on that.

I'm amending my New Year's goals to be "Take care of me" since that covers many of my original goals. I need to remember that I'm not just a mom and wife and housekeeper. I know it's a minor thing, really, but that salt scrub is a symbol for taking charge of my life once more. :o)

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Weekend Sparklies:

1. Holy cow this was the most divine dinner:

I made the crust, I made the sauce, I sauteed the mushrooms and caramelized the onions and grated the cheese. It was unbelievable! :o) I'll be posting the recipes I used over on FYB tomorrow.

2. We took care of "the girls" so Mom and Dad could attend Dennis's celebration of life. From their accounting of it, it was a beautiful tribute to a wonderful man.

3. Brien managed to fix the passenger sliding door on my van--thank goodness! It broke and we didn't make it to church as a result. But, the door is fixed now. :o)

4. I found a wonderful and inspirational blog kept by a woman who has lost 125 pounds.

5. Lissie emailed to let me know Pandapas Pond is full of water once more. Hallelujah! :o)

No milestones.

****ETA****
Well, it's official, Bitty will be missing her first day of school tomorrow. I just put her to bed with a fever of 102.3. She was chattering and chilled and couldn't get warm. I dosed her with ibuprofen and snuggled her under her covers. She's having no symptoms other than the fever and just generally feeling pitiful. She was fine this morning, and by just after religious ed, she was ill. Poor Bitty. I'm going to call the doctor tomorrow on the off-chance it's 'flu and we can get her some Tamiflu. We'll see. This is one of the times it really sucks to be a parent--you have a sick baby and can't do a thing about it. :o(

Loss

2012-01-20T10:32:00.002-05:00

A high school friend was killed Wednesday afternoon. He was driving with his one year old son and was hit head on. He died at the scene. His son was fine.

He was such a sweet, kind and funny guy. He had his own small business producing custom drums and percussion, a perfect profession for him. He was a father, brother, son, husband, and friend.

I hadn't spoken with him since I graduated, but kept up with him through Josh (his best friend). He lived across the street from B and his family in two different neighborhoods--funny how that works.

I'm at a loss. "Why??" comes to mind. As does, "What should I do? What can I do?" Mom and Dad will be attending the funeral service tomorrow. It's a long haul from here so they'll be leaving after work today.

I tell you what, it's made me sit back and think. We're in the prime of our lives, nothing bad is supposed to happen to us! And yet, the unthinkable has happened. It's brought me back around to all those lessons I learned from when we lost Hannah, all those things I swore I wouldn't forget, and yet, somehow over the course of the past four years have.

Take nothing for granted. You are only guaranteed today. Send your loved ones out the door with a hug, a kiss, a kind word, and a smile for you have no guarantee they'll be coming home to you and you want to remember your last moments with them as wonderful.

I'm afraid I was taking Brien for granted and this woke me up. Sometimes we need that wake-up call. I just wish it hadn't come in the form of Dennis's death.

Pop Culture

2012-01-18T15:24:00.000-05:00

As I've said so often, I'm a big ol' nerd who enjoys geek TV. I'm sadly out of touch with all that is wonderful and amazing in the land of pop culture. I get clued in through listening to conversations and reading some websites, but for the most part, I'm in the dark.

I say this because I've been thinking about my post from the other evening about Lily watching the good "Star Wars" movies and the need to see them not just because they are enjoyable, but because there are any number of cultural references to them. The same is true for "The Wizard of Oz" (which she has yet to see due to my childhood hangups with the terrifying flying monkeys). Kirsten mentioned "Forest Gump" and I've been thinking that "The Sound of Music" is right up there as well.

So, my question to you is, what movies do you think kiddos need to see due to their significance in cultural references?

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Sparklies:

1. This pony is too funny:

2. From this morning.

3. This cutie pie all bundled up against the cold and wind:

4. Talking to Dani. :o)
5. All the websites blacked-out because of SOPA and PIPA. While on the one hand, it's been a bit of a frustration (I wanted to make pitas and my recipe site was dark--ACK!!), on the other hand, these folks and sites are taking a stand for what they believe in, and I can't fault them for that.
6. I saved over $90 on groceries today!!!! WOO HOO! I did some major restocking and stocking up.

No milestones.

Teddy Bears

2012-01-17T15:13:00.000-05:00

Lily and I had the most delightful conversation this morning. She had brought Bear downstairs with her and had a carrying-bag for him as well. She looked at me and said, "This is Bear's bed. He's very tired this morning. This is where he's going to sleep all day. He's nocturnal, you know."

And, from there, something rather imaginative and insightful occurred. It seems that teddies have a very important job. They are to stay awake all night, protecting their children from harm in the form of monsters, bedbugs and nightmares. When the morning comes and their children go to school, they are finally able to rest.

Buuuuut, the big teddy bears are diurnal, like us, so they stay awake during the day to protect the smaller loveys.

I like it! :o)

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Sparklies:

1. I found this on my walk yesterday, so not technically today, but still fun:

2. My George's bikini is showing!

3. Okay, this too is from last night, but it was wonderful. B lit a fire and all my candles, and it was warm and cozy and fragrant in my house:

4. Now this is from this morning:

I'm SO blessed to have such a wonderful place to walk and jog. :o) I've not yet walked the same route twice and yet, I've walked everyday since last Monday.

5. Also from this morning:

Ellie is not very patient with me stopping to take photos so I have to snap them quickly!

6. Ah, this sock. There's a story here.

Last week, during one of our walks, Ellie managed to lose one of her white mittens. I was upset and we walked home the same way (different beginning of the walk) the next day to try to find it, but to no avail. The mitten was gone. Or, so I thought. I'll be darned if it wasn't waiting for us on a branch, waving like a white flag, rather like this guy! Some good Samaritan has been lifting lost clothing items off the trail and putting them up like flags for the owners to find. :o) Needless to say I was delighted to recover the lost mitten, and hope the owner of this cute little sock is equally happy. :o)

6. The lungs and heart are so happy! The legs? Eh, we're working on it. ;o) I've been sleeping SO well! When Brien's alarm went off at 5:30 this morning I could have (and most likely should have) gotten up, fully rested. I chose to lay in bed instead. Not tomorrow. Nope. Gonna get up!

7. Happy Birthday to Gracie-Goo who is two years old today. Time is a flyin'!

No milestones.

MLK Day

2012-01-16T16:12:00.001-05:00

“Never, never be afraid to do what's right, especially if the well-being of a person or animal is at stake. Society's punishments are small compared to the wounds we inflict on our soul when we look the other way.”

Wise words from a very wise man.

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We stayed home today. Lil loves being a homebody and having pajama days, so that's what she did. In typical Ellie fashion, she destroyed the house. B hung out with the girls while I went out for my walk/(ha ha ha)jog.

I know it's early days yet, but I feel more committed this year than I did last. Yeah yeah, easy to say when I'm only just beginning, I know. But, I'm feeling good. I'm not overdoing it. I've checked out the "Couch to 5K" program at Dani's suggestion and will begin that after I lose a bit more weight (right now my joints are groaning and complaining, no need to make them any angrier).

I'm not a huge fan of the "thin pinners" on Pinterest, nor am I into "thinspiration". However, there is much to motivate one over on the pin boards, and I've found a number of things to help me out. My goal isn't to be thin, my goal is to be healthy. There is a difference.

I keep reminding myself it's not a matter of me comparing myself to others, but just worrying about me. It's like being in middle school all over again. As one of my pins says, "No matter how slow you go, you're lapping everyone on the couch." That's it exactly. It's about me and my ability to move and run and play and be with my kids. It's about not huffing and puffing taking care of the laundry, drat it all.

I remember just how wonderful I was feeling last March. That was a good feeling. I'd like to feel like that all the time from now on, and I know what I must do to achieve it.
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Today's Sparklies:

1. Remembering Dr. King and all he did for the Civil Rights movement.
2. Family time.
3. I was able to run a bit more than yesterday. In fact, the tiredness was in my legs more than my heart and lungs. I'll get there yet!
4. Ahhh, pink chicken for dinner. We do love some chicken tikka masala around here.

No milestones.

Weekend Report

2012-01-15T21:31:00.001-05:00

Friday was "Wacky Tacky Day" at Lil's school. My first thought was, "Oh, those poor teachers!!" Those sorts of days are always the WORST for behavior. Everyone is so excited they are just out of control. Lil and I talked about the fact such days are hard for teachers and I asked what she could do to help out Ms. W. She thought for a bit and said, "Be an extra good listener." I received no report otherwise, so I'm assuming all went well. :o)

Sometimes I think Lily is cursed to have a teacher for a mom. Because I know all about how things in schools work, my initial response to some situations isn't "Oh COOL! I wonder what we can put together for this!" and is instead, "Oh good lordy mercy. Those poor teachers!"

That's not fair to Bitty because she is so excited by these things. I tried not to squelch her enjoyment and instead we planned her outfit for the day. She decided the shirt and pants just didn't match and were perfect. Then to up the wackiness, she turned the shirt inside out and backwards. The pants are simply backwards. The socks don't match and there are two different shoes. I think she did a pretty good job wacky tackying it up. :o)

This one saw the camera, wanted her picture taken (the "cheeeeeeese" clued me in), but then didn't stay still long enough for me to get a clear one.

And, I just loved this beautiful profile last night. Typically, the TV is off while we eat, but we ate late last night and were in the middle of watching "The Empire Strikes Back" and Lil just couldn't stop watching (it was her first time watching it). The beetled brows indicate Luke and Darth Vader are in the middle of the epic battle--this did not make her happy as she was quite worried about Luke.

And yet, despite the slightly worried face, I saw such sweetness in the softness of her cheeks and her beautiful little mouth. What a sweet girl.

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A quick story for posterity's sake (I wasn't going to share to save Nana's feelings, but Pop gave me permission ;oP):

Nana and Pop made 15 bean soup and bread for dinner and invited us over to share. Boy howdy am I happy they did! The moment I walked in the door and was greeted with the heavenly aroma of the ham and beans and the yeasty-ness of the baking bread, my stomach tried to jump out of my body and dive into the food. :oP

As I was sitting at the island, chatting with Mom and Dad and catching up, Mom said something along the lines of, "Well, we'll see how the bread turns out. It's a bit of an experiment." To which I replied something like, "Because you're not sure how it's going to turn out or because it's a new flavor we haven't tried before?" Turns out it was a bit of both.

As anyone who has made 15 bean soup knows, it comes with a ham flavor packet. As anyone who has made bread machine bread knows, it comes with yeast and a flavor packet.

Mom was busy putting everything together into the machine, not paying much attention. She came to a packet and thought, "I thought I already put the yeast in...? Oh well" and added the yeast.

Later, when looking for the flavor packet for the beans...yeah, you know where I'm going. We had "Ham and Cheese Bread" for dinner this evening. :oD At least, that's what Brien called it. Nana called it "European Cheese & Herb Bread with Ham". Whatever you choose to call it, it was actually quite tasty. :o)

Oh the belly laughs we all got from this. :oD

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Weekend Sparklies:

1. Brien cooked and cleaned the kitchen last night. Check out dinner:

These are cabbage rolls and holy mackerel are they AWESOME! If you are interested in the recipe, let me know and I'll post it over on FYB.
2. Lil has now watched the original "Star Wars" trilogy. I think there are certain movies everyone needs to see due to their pop cultural references. "The Wizard of OZ" comes to mind, as do the "Star Wars" movies. "Back to the Future" is in there as well. What others can you think of?
3. Two walk/jogs of 2 miles this weekend. I forgot how much better I sleep when I get good exercise. I've slept better this past week than I have in a long long while.
4. Ellie was a doll in church this morning--until she pulled out her Baby Bible. Oh my. She began identifying all the animals and their accompanying sounds, and y'all know babies don't know how to whisper. "Goggie, woof woof (in a really high pitched yip)" "Wion ROAR". I kept trying to acknowledge with whispers and saying, "Sh, use as quiet voice" all to no avail. Oh well. They love her. :o)
5. More recent Ellie speak:

"Cheese"=Jesus (yup, that's one of my faves, lol)
"I got it!"
"A-hep"=Help
"I reddy"
"Cocks"=socks
Frogs say "biddit"
"Bocks" are now "bucks"
"Howwy"=Holly
She identifies both the kitties and calls them by name
She identifies both of Nan and Pop's pups and calls them by name
"Titty"=Kitty (isn't it fun how babyspeak is so often rather inappropriate?)
She can identify all parts of the face and will poke you to point them out. She also does it in books and pictures.
Many words are sing-songed "Shooooes", "Jackey" (jacket), "Sleeeeeve", "Aaaaaarm", "Paaaaaants", etc. I'll have to get a video.
If she wants a sip of something you're drinking she'll say "Mommy's" "Daddy's" "Wiwwy's", etc.

No milestones.

Back on the Wagon

2012-01-12T13:38:00.001-05:00

If there's anything I do particularly well, it's keep it honest and real. I know my flaws and faults, I know what I'm good at, and I'll be up front about it. I have a tendency to not want to do something if I perceive it to be hard or think it's going to be hard. As I've said before (many times, alas), I'm an inherently lazy person. I am. I'm rather ashamed of it, but there it is.

The thing is, my need for order and neatness typically overcomes that lazyitis and things stay fairly well-ordered and organized around here. Typically. There are definitely moments when things aren't great, but most of the time nothing is out of control or so awful it'll take more than 30 minutes to an hour to put to rights.

I wish that need for order could somehow rear its head with regards to my health and eating and exercise. I did so well last year from the middle of January to May. I was feeling great and SO proud of myself! And then, somewhere along the way, I fell off the wagon and my routine, and I fell HARD. Any progress I had made is gone. I gained back all the weight I lost (can you see the red glow coming from my hot cheeks as I admit this?) and as for being heart healthy and exercising, well, forget it. That went away too. I struggled to get in shape, I was in shape, I should have maintained it. I didn't.

I fell into the same unhealthy patterns of eating and moving that have been my life for so many years now. I love food. I adore food. I mean GOOD, tasty food--typically the kind loaded in fat. If something tastes that delicious, typically it tastes like seconds.

I ate to filling overfull. And continued to do it, even though I didn't like how I was feeling. If I was feeling a bit peckish, I would pick up whatever the girls were having (or worse), and instead of measuring out, I would simply eat from the container. Self-control? What self-control??

When I was bouncing along the ground, watching the wagon leave me in the dust, I gave up on the scale. He and I haven't met up in months (and months and months and months). I could tell all my hard work was gone by the way my clothes were fitting and the way I felt, I didn't need to see the number on the scale to tell me that.

I started the new year with the desire to fix things and KEEP THEM FIXED. This morning, I bit the bullet and got on the scale. I was positive I had put back on everything I lost plus more and was afraid to look. Thankfully, I hadn't! In fact, I'm pretty much back to square one, as if last year's efforts never occurred. Thank goodness!

I'm once more keeping a food log and being mindful of portions and what I'm putting in my mouth (not idly picking at the girls' food and such). I'm moving again. I'm working on losing a bit so my joints don't hurt as much when I begin to work on cardio in earnest. I'm working on self-control, especially where my beloved carbs are concerned. Carbs are good in small amounts, not in the portions I like to have them. ;o)

I've felt better the past few days--getting up and getting out and getting moving--than I have in a long long while. I'm sore, but it's a good kind of sore. I've done this once and I know I can do it again. And, this time around I'm determined not to fall off that wagon and let it pull away from me. If I fall, I'm fully prepared to bounce right back on again!

I'm embarrassed as I write this. Robin and I were talking about it, and the thing is, having been slender most of my life, I feel I have to make excuses and explain that "I haven't always been this way". There's such a stigma attached to being fat and I'm tired of it. I want to be healthy for me and my family, not because of what others think (at least this is what I'm telling myself).

So, here I am, once again making this effort to better my health and my future.

******************************
Today's Sparklies:

1. Dani, I had Map My Run from when you downloaded it. It's WONDERFUL! Thank you! :o)
2. 3 miles this morning and it was GORGEOUS. This is like no winter I've experienced in quite awhile. But, it's nice for taking a morning walk.
3. Hey, I'm ahead of where I was last year with regards to moving and eating better. I didn't start eating well until mid-January, and I didn't begin working out until mid-February.
4. Even though she napped for a bit in the stroller this morning--how odd!--Bean is taking a lovely nap right now. Whew!
5. New people came to Bible Study last night. Our numbers have grown from four to nine! :o)
6. Sleeping well. I forgot how much better I sleep when I get decent exercise. Duh!

No milestones.

Growing and Changing

2012-01-11T14:18:00.001-05:00

I've been sitting on these photos for a few days now and wanted to get them posted.

I know, I know, what's new about the Bean reading? Nothing, really, except I derive such pleasure from watching her read and enjoy herself.

The raspberries were on HUGE sale, I needed them for B's cake, they go bad quickly, Lily enjoyed them. :o)

Please excuse the chaotic mess and instead focus on the cute

This was yesterday. This one can't help but "cheeeeeeeeeeeeeeese" the moment she sees a camera. I love the scrunched up nose. :o)

My mom was asking me what sorts of things Miss Beanie is into and interested in these days and I had to give it some thought. She still loves "Despicable Me" best of all, but even then, only watches for maybe 15 minutes max. She just isn't that into TV--yet. ;o) She of course loves her "bocks" and playing with Lily. She loves being under covers (a few mornings ago I found her in Lil's bed, snuggled under her covers) and cuddling under blankets.

As for interests, well, she's still loving art (markers, crayons, pens, you name it) and being outside (as long as she's not confined). She enjoys Lil's Lite Sprites and anything electronic-y gadget-y--i.e. my iPhone, B's iPod touch, my computer, my Nook, etc.

She's very good about turning off the electronics when she's finished with them, so there is that at least. She's also good about turning off the Tag reader and putting her clothes in the laundry hamper. She's the neatest of my girls at this age--and I'm hoping like crazy it continues. :fingers crossed:

She's speaking more and more, but so much of it is language that only those of us who are with her all the time can understand. Hannah was such a talker and so easy to understand from such an early age, that's it's still difficult to believe Lil and Ellie weren't/aren't. But this one is far more interested in her physical development than her verbal skills. It all evens out in the end.

She's also very good about letting us know it's time for "night night". She'll look at us and say it! So, I take her up and put her down for her nap (which right now is anywhere from 12:30 or 1:00ish until at least 2:30, although she's been known to go until 4:00).

The one thing Miss Bean DOESN'T like is being restrained--as in the car seat, stroller, etc. We went out walking again this morning (B had the BEST site for me to track my distance--2+ miles both days, and in under 40 minutes both times. No, I'm not setting the world on fire, but I'm not dawdling either) and she was more patient with me. Of course, I didn't really stop to take photos, either. We just got a move on and kept going. Meanwhile, I'm trying to make this a habit and keep doing it. The birds, the fresh air, the scenery...ahhhh. It was wonderful (although beginning to spit rain) again today. :o)

And, Captain Random has struck yet again. Sorry. As for Miss Ellie, she's growing so quickly it's unbelievable. I no longer have a baby at all.

*******************************
Today's Sparklies:

1. Our morning walk.
2. The birds were nearly cacophonous. I think we get so used to tuning them out that we actually have to strain to hear them. Yet, once you do hear them, it's hard NOT to. :o)
3. My body can tell it's been moving again. Yay! I think... ;o)
4. Getting the playroom cleaned and organized once again. Whew.
5. I got the rest of the Christmas trees taken down yesterday. Whew again.

No milestones.

Motivation

2012-01-10T13:44:00.000-05:00

This morning dawned dark, cold and foggy. Determined to follow through on my goals and get moving once again, I donned some warm clothes, snuggled Beanie into the jog stroller, and we were off once the bus came and left.

I was only able to snap a couple of quick photos because I wanted to keep moving and because Ellie was none too pleased whenever I would pause for a moment. Go go go seems to be her motivator. :o)

This image and the following were taken within mere seconds of each other, yet the lighting is so very different.

I was able to jog for a bit here and there as well as walk, and I have to say, that yes, I feel good. I didn't think I wouldn't, but I always forget how good I do feel once I've finished "exercising", whatever that may be.

Bean and I were mostly silent on our walk. Sure, we sang a bit here and there, and yes, there was the occasional screech and squawk of displeasure when I would stop (only three times), but mostly, we were quiet. All this silence allowed me to really tune into the morning world around me--the crunch of others' feet on the graveled and dirt path, the birds singing and calling to one another, the trickle of water, the snap and crack of something in the underbrush, the chatter of squirrels chastising one another.

My heart was made glad and light and my batteries recharged. This is the way to begin the day. :o)

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Today's Sparklies:

1. I fear we may have no snow this year. The winter has been so mild, and well, warm that I just don't see any white fluffy in our future. In fact, it's been so warm we have a number of confused plants out and about:

2. Look at this imp:

How can you not smile when faced with this? Even if it does interrupt your picture taking to keep you moving along the trail.
3. And, her hair is long enough I've started pulling it back to keep it out of her face.

How in the world has the child's hair grown so quickly?
4. My lunch was divine and I had to share:

Oh this was satisfying on so many levels. That would be chicken salad in the 'cado and it was tasty. :o)
5. I have pintos in the crock pot and they smell tasty too. I swear, my stomach is rumbling even as I type. We'll have them with some fresh bread and a nice salad. Mm. :o)
6. My morning walk. It wasn't a stroll and it wasn't a power walk, but it was a good brisk clip and I feel good.

No milestones.

A Light Snack?

2012-01-08T15:16:00.000-05:00

Last Friday, I had set out two and a half sticks of butter to soften. I left them on the counter, as I always have.

When I looked back at the counter three hours later, there was a stick of butter missing.

Oh. My. Stars.

I searched high and low but couldn't find it. I knew the culprit was under 3' tall and had to have pushed the step stool over to the counter to grab it. The question was, where had she put it?

I had assumed I would find it intact.

Alas, that was not the case.

:shudder:

In case you are wondering, those are in fact Beanie marks in that butter. I would recognize the gap between the upper teeth anywhere. The striations are from those über sharp baby teeth she's sporting these days.

It would seem she had quite the snack. (*gag*)

Lil has never been one to eat globs of butter, however, Hannah was another story. You may recall the tale of Hannah and the snack? What, you don't? Well, let me remind you.

She was about two and a half of so and she and Brien were watching a movie. She turned to B and said, "Daddy, may I have a snack?" Brien told her should could and she ran off to the kitchen. She returned a few minutes later, a stick of butter in each had. One stick already had bites taken out of it. The other she handed to Brien and said, "Here, Daddy, I got you a snack too!"

The Bean, it would seem is a bit more selfish than her sister. ;o)

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Weekend Sparklies:

1. It's been gorgeous the past two days and Lil has spent hours outside. She's playing with Sadie yet again today.
2. Religious ed was wonderful this morning.
3. Feeling a wee smidge better. I was so ill yesterday I spent the day in bed. On the bright side, I read three books. ;o)
4. While I was sick, B cleaned the kitchen--twice. Thank you, sweetie!
5. I got the grocery shopping done after class today instead of having to go out to do it tomorrow. Yay!

No milestones. Buuuut, boy did that stick of butter remind me of another girlie of mine.

Busy Bitty

2012-01-05T15:12:00.000-05:00

Lily had a wonderful Christmas. She was given many delightful gifts, a couple of which required her decorating expertise.

Robin, Lawrence and Josh gave her some fuzzy bobble headed kitties to decorate, complete with feathers, rhinestones, crowns, glitter glue and more.

Lil eagerly anticipated Ellie's nap every afternoon for three days so she could get to work on her kitties.

Bitty may have grown older, but she's still the same little kid who loved to sit quietly and paint. There is nothing this child loves more than to sit in peace and work on art.

Ah, my sweet little introvert. Her little sister the extrovert is going to drive her absolutely batty in the coming years...

This is the first of the three kitties she fancified.

Aunt Jen and family gave Lil a sparkling sequin kit. She's made one of these so far and it kept her entertained for over an hour.

Again, she is most happy and content when sitting, working quietly on art. With this project, you simply peel off the paper, exposing a sticky dot. Using the wax crayon, you grab the appropriate sequin and put it right on the sticky. So simple, and yet, so utterly engrossing. :o)

It's much harder for Bitty to work on art these days as she is rarely left in peace by her sister. Ellie just loves Lil so much she can hardly stand it, and wants to be with her constantly. And, as I've said before, if Lily does it, then so does Miss Bean. Poor Bitty. She just wants some time and space to herself sometimes. I'm going to have to work on Beanie with that as she gets older and is capable of understanding.

For now, I suppose I'll have to get used to hearing Lil's door slam and Ellie's howls of impotent rage as she has once again been forcibly removed from Lily's domain. Oh my.

***********************
Today's Sparklies:

1. Ellie and I had a good morning out stocking up on household necessaries (tp, toothpaste, bleach, etc.), procuring Brien's birthday gifts (his day is tomorrow!), and getting in some staples so we aren't eating chicken nugget tacos for dinner again anytime soon...oy. Bad planning on my part. :shakes head:
2. The fact we have enough clothes that I could go two weeks without doing laundry.
3. A working washer and dryer to take care of the aforementioned laundry.
4. Dinner with Nana and Pop and Josh, Dana and Ever. The last three will be returning to AZ tomorrow evening and we want to get in one more good visit before they leave.

No milestones.

Beanie's New Digs

2012-01-04T15:19:00.001-05:00

It's not finished yet, but here is the Bean's new room. We still need to move the valences from her old room, and I need to remove the cork board and move it to the offudio (it's Hannah's and has a bunch of wonderful Hannah things hanging on it) and hang the little white shelf in it's place, but, overall, it's finished. Oh, wait, we also need to install shelving in the closet. Then it's finished. ;o)

This is the view from the doorway.

From the corner with the rocking chair.

From the corner opposite the chair.

From the tree tent corner.

It's a warm and cozy space and Miss Ellie just loves it. She and I played in there for over an hour today.

She and Lil played in there this morning during "free time". (Free time is what Lil has if she has finished all her morning routine before 8:45 and time to head for the bus.)

Fun times. :o)

There were no problems sleeping last night, nor have there been any problems this afternoon. In fact, when I took her upstairs for her nap she looked at me and said, "Night night" and was reaching for her crib. We may be able to skip moving the blackout drapes since she seems to be doing okay with the amount of light in there. We'll see.

As an aside, boy is her hair getting long. It was like it grew over night. Crazy.

And, my big girl. I can't believe how much older she is seeming to me.

On an unrelated note, Ellie and I were playing around with my phone as I tried to take a video of her reading her Karen Katz manners book and she saw herself on the screen. She looked at it excitedly, pointed and said, "aHannah!" Obviously she must look like her big sister. I know B and I see it, but so does she. I told her no, it was her and she kept insisting it was Hannah. Never argue with a 20 month old--you WILL lose. :oP

*************************
Today's Sparklies:

1. My cardinals are back:

And, since I hung the suet block, I have two different woodpeckers visiting each day as well. The little finches are back, as are the chickadees, titmice and more. Who knew I would turn into such an avid bird watcher?

2. I found this hiding on my camera:

Christmas Eve after Santa had visited. I heard him after I had been up to go to the bathroom...;o)
3. Bible study tonight. I've not had it since October and am really looking forward to it.

No milestones.

Undecorating

2012-01-03T15:26:00.000-05:00

Winter arrived with a windy, bone chilling intensity today. It's c-c-cold out there (all of 32 degrees with high winds) and I couldn't be happier. :o) Of course, it's right back up to the mid-50's for the rest of the week, so I'm enjoying today.

Of course, today would be the day I decided I just had to undecorate--since everything is stored in B's workshop--Doh! We typically wait until Brien's birthday (Epiphany) to do so, but I had to do it. You see, it's time to move Beanie to her big girl room. The room she's in right now is the nursery because it's so close to our room. But, it's also right where the stairs are, and sound travels right up to her from down in the living room. She'll be moving into the former Monkey Studio formerly Hannah's room.

I'm very glad we decided to convert Han's room into a stamping space for me prior to moving another little girl in there. This way it doesn't actually feel like I'm moving Ellie into Hannah's space. I'm moving her into a room that has been Han's room, a studio, and then a guest room. The room looks nothing like it did when it was Hannah's, and I anticipate being fine with this move.

Anyhow, all this revolves back around to undecorating because all the tubs and boxes were stored in the guest room and B and I agreed it would be silly move all the empty boxes to another room only to have to move them yet again. So, the living room tree is down. I'll have Lil help with Hannah's tree, the dining room tree and the Hokie tree. The Hokie tree will remain until after the Sugar Bowl tonight--I'm superstitious like that.

As much as I love sitting in my living room with my tree lit, listening to Christmas music, there is something so refreshing and rejuvenating about putting things back to rights. For the most part, the living room is finished. I need to redo the mantle and sideboard, and find a home for the Lite Sprites, but overall, things are good in here. Now to tackle the rest of the downstairs. I'm about ready to go on my annual decluttering spree...;o)

Tomorrow sees me hitting the playroom (yet again...always with the playroom) and schoolroom, and hopefully getting laundry done. I'm revisiting my daily chores list and will post when I have it done to my satisfaction. For now, I'm just trying to settle back into our typical daily routine.

Typically, undecorating leaves me with a sense of sorrow and sadness. So far I've experienced no post-Christmas letdown, and no down yo. I don't know if it's simply good ol' time at work again as I've become used to his new "normal" of ours, or if it's something else. Whatever it is, I'm grateful for the reprieve. Hurting over the holidays really really sucks.

Maybe the down yo will come when Hannah's sparkly tree is taken down. Maybe it will come moving Ellie into that front bedroom. Maybe it won't come at all. I'm not borrowing trouble by looking for it to happen, or dreading that it will. Instead, I'll do what I always do, enjoy the up yo while it lasts. It's amazing how much longer those up yo's last these days...

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Today's Sparklies:

1. Getting the living room whipped back into shape. I'm not nearly as frazzled as I was yesterday.
2. All the helpful comments about getting moving. I had to chuckle as my plan has been to start walking as soon as I get Lil on the bus, and taking Beanie around the neighborhood and walking trail. Y'all must be mind readers. :o) Then, once I'm feeling more in shape, letting Jillian kick my tushy once more. ;o)
3. Ellie chasing Lil through the house calling, "Will! Will!!" She makes me laugh, that girl.
4. We got it done. We shifted and moved and shuffled and shoved and hauled, and the Bean has a new room! It looks just like her old room--only bigger. She was most nonplussed when we took her crib apart to move it. It really freaked her out and she screamed and cried and tried to force us to stop and put it back together. Once Daddy had put it back to rights, she began bringing me all the items that belong in her crib. So far we've had no problem with her sleeping in there. We'll see how it goes for the rest of the evening. She seems pretty chuffed with the entire situation, though. :o)
5. Tech plays in the Sugar Bowl tonight. Ulp! If they stink it up like they did against Clemson, I don't know what I'll do...

Milestones:
Another little girl has made her place in that front bedroom that once belonged to Hannah. I wonder if Ellie can sense that. She seems to adore her oldest sister and jabbers to her when she sees photos, so this may just be where she belongs.

New Beginnings--A More In Depth List

2012-01-02T14:04:00.002-05:00

After all my crazy insanity leading up to Christmas, I knew I needed a break. I granted myself one and I couldn't be happier. I didn't worry about cleaning the house and all the other jobs I have during the week. Instead, I took a break--just like Lil and B.

Of course, I'm soon to be paying for this lack as my house is a wreck and filthy and cluttered and I'm about to lose my mind as a result. I loathe cleaning and decluttering and straightening, I really do. And yet, I become so frazzled and frantic when the house is a wreck I can hardly see straight. Damned if I do and damned if I don't, no?

In fact, as I sit here looking at the wreck that is my living room, I feel guilty for sitting here typing instead of cleaning. I hate that guilt. I want to be comfortable allowing myself one more day of laziness and break. Why can't I do that?? UGH!

Aaaaand, this post completely took an unexpected turn. :oS But, I suppose it fits the theme of what I had planned to write about. It's a new year, and once again, a time of new beginnings.

I glut myself on candy and sugar and butter and fat and junk from Thanksgiving through the end of Christmas, and by the time it's over, I'm craving fresh fruits and veggies. I'm longing to get out and get moving. Last year I made it through March before I fell off my wagon with exercise. Then, in June, I lost the food motivation--which is silly given the plethora of fresh fruits and veggies available.

I want to make it past three and six months this year. More movement, back to better food choices and a healthier me. I think it all comes back to my inherent laziness. It's easier to not do than to do once you're out of the habit. I feel so much better when I move and work out (once I'm in shape--so proud of myself, such fantastic endorphins) and I want to get there. I'm starting small--walking around the neighborhood with Ellie every morning. It gets us both out of the house--keeps her out so the house stays neater longer--and out into nature. This has been such a mild winter

I'm going to get back to Jillian and let her kick my patootie once more. It's twenty minutes for crying out loud. I can do anything for twenty minutes (although I confess to dreading the initial days and the pain that comes with it).

As I have said before, it's not about weight loss (to me, my family seems to be waaaay too obsessed with weight), it's about my overall health. I want to be healthier and gosh darnit, I WILL be.

I also want to be a better wife and mother. I love my girls and husband with all my heart, but sometimes I think I don't put them first when I should. I need to be a better listener--I'm often guilty of hearing, but not actually listening. I need to be more patient and understanding with all three of them.

If I put down the computer when they're around, that should help quite a bit. Email in the morning--first thing--and then at nap time and bedtime should be more than enough. Blogging during nap and then filling in sparklies at bedtime should be sufficient. If bedtime is at 7:30, thirty additional minutes afterward should give me enough time to play around on the 'net. Surely.

All of my goals seem to be intertwined within one another. Less computer time means more time to exercise and be with my family. Being with my family more means better listening and more time interacting with them. One thing leads to another for a better life. And, ultimately, that's my goal, a better life for ALL of us. :o)

*************************
Today's Sparklies:

1. Sleeping in until 8:00--unheard of in this house!
2. I have finished four novels in the past week. Do you have any idea how amazing that is?? Sure, the house is about to fall down around my ears, but man, I got to sit and read!
3. Lil's creative side coming to the front today--she wrote cards to both Santa and Fisbee, cut snowflakes to put in the cards, and made a book for Santa. I think she misses our elf.
4. One more day with my family all at home with me. I'm going to miss them tomorrow.
5. Lil's excitement to go back to school. Yes, I'm going to miss her, but she has certainly missed her friends.
6. Brien cleaned out the fridge for me. Thank you, sweetie.

No milestones.
It came to me yesterday that we have had five Christmases without Hannah. I had six Christmases with her. I can't tell you how awful it is to realize I'll soon have more time without her than the time I had with her. :o

New Year's Eve 2011

2011-12-31T20:18:00.000-05:00

I'm sorry to have been MIA. Brien has been home this week and I've been spending lots of time with him and the girls. We are also dealing with a dead laptop so we're sharing my computer. It's so odd to think we have to "share" a machine--we've become so spoiled. If you had told me twelve years ago we would live in a house with this many computers--a couple of them laptops--I would have laughed at you. Now, I have my machine and B has his. It's actually been nice having to share because I'm spending FAR less time online than I typically would.

Which brings me to my New Year Goals:

*Less time on the machine. I tried, but it seems I have an addiction and it's a struggle. Sometimes I just find myself aimlessly searching the web when I really have nothing I want to look up. Doh. I could be spending that time with my husband and children and reading and making cards, and oh, I don't know, all that stuff I used to do before the siren that is the 'net beckoned.
*I want to make at least five cards a week and revive my poor, sad stamping blog.
*I want to send out at least two cards a week. If I'm making five, sending two is an admirable goal. Plus, it will have me off the computer and doing something more constructive. I swear, Ellie's going to think all I do is have my face in a screen.
*Continue to work on being more green. Every year I add a little more to my efforts. I'm thinking eating two meatless meals a week will help with that. I don't know if that will actually happen (we do try to do one a week), but these are goals so I can work towards it.
*Be more mindful of recognizing family occasions with cards and gifts. I'm lousy at this. (And embarrassed to write it. :oS)
*More movement more exercise--it goes right up there with the first one. I did so well the first half of the year, and then, kaput. Why why why why why??? It's so hard to get into shape and so easy to maintain it, and yet, I flopped. No more. My health, my girls and husband are far more important than my laziness. I must be more healthy for ALL of us.
*Get out in nature more. It revives me and restores me to get out amongst God's creation and I need to be more mindful of that.
*Be more mindful of my tone of voice and voice level when frustrated with my husband and children. I need to be kinder. That's it, end of story. As Jessie once said to me, "I love my husband more than I love being right." That just about sums it up. She's a smart cookie, my sister.
*Spend less money. My goal is to not buy anything that we absolutely do not need. If I buy it, we had better use it.

There are a couple more goals, but they're a bit more private. Although this is my personal journal, somethings still need to remain close to my chest. I've written them down to be more mindful of them. I have quite the list this year and I know they are all doable.

2011 was a pretty good year and I have high hopes 2012 will be even better. :o)

For those of you to whom I owe emails and such, I'll be on it by Tuesday. I have been thinking of you, but have wanted to take a bit of a break from the 'net. I know you understand.

I wish you all a very happy New Year!

Oh, and for Lissie (and anyone else interested):
Some photos for you to enjoy. :o)

We've been busy visiting with Josh, Dana and Ever, taking trips to Richmond to visit, family dinner with Nana and Pop (GG and Bill came into town, driven by Patti, and Bill Jr. and Gayle joined in the fun with them--there was a CROWD last night), and oh so much more. The girls are utterly wiped out and I'm doing all I can to get them back on track before Tuesday morning...but, it sure has been fun getting here. :o)

Photos from Last Week

2011-12-26T17:40:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was wonderful and perfect and I failed to take a single photo. How did I manage that?? I did take a video of Ellie flipping out because we wanted her to open her last present. She had an absolute meltdown. Wow.

Mom and Dad came to dine with us and we had a thoroughly enjoyable time, with delicious apps and fabulous dinner. We had Christmas crackers courtesy Jaydee and Lou and had such a grand time opening them and asking each other the silly little jokes and wearing our paper crowns we decided we simply must do it again next year. :o)

As is typical for me, the best part of my day was watching my family open their gifts. I get such a thrill watching them open and play with their toys (B included!).

I received some wonderful gifts and toys as well, and I had to chuckle because Santa knows me well enough to include a box of crayons and a couple coloring books in my stocking. ;o)

I wanted to get these pictures up before I forgot and they just sat there on my computer. These are from Christmas Town at Busch Gardens. The night was warm and it had rained all day. The place was practically deserted. It was fabulous!

The fuzzy zombie children!

I want B to do this to the tree in my front yard next year. ;o)

I'm sure it will take no time at all, given you only have to wrap them this closely. :oP

This was over in New France. I had seen wreaths with ice skates, but not lanterns.

There were the sweetest little penguins in France.

They were completely over having visitors and ready for us to all just LEAVE.;o)

I can't see you I can't see you I can't see you!

This tree was over in the theater in England. I thought it was beautiful and then I got a gander at the tree topper. :oP Although, I have to say, I'd love to do a tree in white lights and red balls--minus the topper. ;o)

It really was a lovely visit and I hope we can get back one more time before it closes for the season.

**************************

Fisbee Watch

I'm sorry I wasn't as good about posting Fisbee's antics the past week--things were just so busy.

Sunday, Fisbee was mild mannered and hung out with the shepherd kneeling in awe of baby Jesus.

He also gave the baby his blanket and left it there for the rest of the week.

Monday found him in the snowman.

Tuesday was a game of Connect Four with the snowman.

Thursday we found he had made a bed on the tissues...

...and left some magic seeds which we planted as directed that evening.

Friday morning we awoke to find we had grown candy canes!

Fisbee had to try out the fruits of his labor, of course.

And, Saturday morning, we found him thus.

Hot cocoa was set up and ready to go--just add water. :o)

We were sad to see him go Saturday evening and can't wait for him to come back next year. :o)

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I wanted to post these too, before I forgot. I made these cute little guys for Lil's birthday brekky. :o)

Meanwhile, B is home all week--I couldn't be happier--and Josh and Dana arrive Wednesday with baby Ever. I'm SO excited! I just love this time of year. I'm delighted my typical post-Christmas letdown hasn't occurred yet--here's hoping it won't. I'm not going to worry about it, and will instead enjoy this time with my family. :o)

I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas! :o)

Christmas Eve 2011

2011-12-24T21:38:00.001-05:00

The monkey bread has been made, the cookies have been set out (with a Coke this year--Lil thought Santa could maybe use the caffeine--wonder where she got that from?), and now B's making us some adult libations.

The candles are burning, the Christmas music is playing and everything is done.

There's nothing left to do except wait for the girls to sleep and enjoy the peace.

This may be my most favorite time of all. All is calm, all is bright.

Merry Christmas, everyone. May your day be filled with family, fun and laughter.

Wonderful Times with My Girls

2011-12-23T22:24:00.001-05:00

I wanted to remember this and didn't have time to post last night.

I have spent two delightful days with my girls. Wednesday was Lil's last day of school until January 3rd and we met up with Jen, Derek and the kids. We went to Yankee and then Carrabba's for dinner (yes, Carrabba's for dinner two times in one week--none of us were complaining). It had been raining all day, but finally stopped just after we began eating. The temp was around 65 so it was quite lovely out.

Jen had said they were going to Christmas Town at Busch Gardens and asked if we wanted to join them. I had had neighbors turned away due to crowds and no parking (yes, they do that there) and was a bit concerned what with it being this close to Christmas, but decided to go ahead and join them.

I stopped by the house for pj's, passes and a stroller and we headed over. It was DEAD! The place was practically empty and it was WONDERFUL! Oh how delightful Christmas Town was. I have photos on my phone and I'll have to download them at some point. BG really does the lights-thing up right. I'm hoping we can get back by before the New Year.

Then, last night, after we dropped "the girls" (aka Mattie and Zoey) off at Nan and Pop's, I decided to to a light tour. Ellie fell asleep and Lil and I looked out for all that was wondrous and bright, singing Christmas carols and tunes all the way. It is one of my most favorite things to do, and some of my most cherished memories with Papa are of riding around singing carols (he could harmonize so beautifully) looking at all the lights. I hope the girls look back as fondly in years to come. Alas, last night, Lil kept asking, "NOW are we going home??" :sigh:

We made it home, I got Beanie in her bed, and came down to make Lily some hot chocolate (not that it was cold or anything, because it certainly wasn't at 64 degrees--and to think we had snow this time last year...). We snuggled in on the couch, watching "A Charlie Brown Christmas" and reading Christmas stories (A Bad Kitty Christmas, Mortimer's Christmas Manger, Counting Christmas). Just as we were finishing, B came home.

We planted the magic seeds Fisbee left (more on that in another post--they grew into candy canes!) and it was time for bed. It was such a wonderful day and evening. :o)

Today was a pajama day for my girl. She has been wanting one and we haven't been able to indulge in one in forever. Today was the day. It was spent watching movies, reading books and just being a little kid. It's a wonderful time of year.

Tomorrow shall be long for sure. I have a bunch of cooking I want to get done so I don't have to do it Christmas Day, and we'll go to church. Lil will help me prepare the monkey bread for Christmas breakfast. We'll track Santa and watch Christmas movies and read our books and do whatever we can to make the longest day of the year (I don't care what the calendar says about the longest day being in the middle of June, we all know it's Christmas Eve) go by just a bit faster.

Oh, and lest I fail to remember, the past two days I've had to stop Miss Ellie from opening presents under the tree. She too is ready for Christmas. :o)

I do believe my potatoes are just about boiled so I had best be off. Mushy potatoes do not a good potato salad make...

My Blessings

2011-12-21T15:47:00.001-05:00

I was talking with Brien the other night, saying how blessed we are, what a good life we have.

We have three beautiful daughters--two of whom are still here with us physically, and one keeping watch over her baby sisters.

The "baby" is no longer a baby. She is turning into such a big girl.

There are still vestiges of babyhood about her, the snub nose, the soft, full cheeks.

She's a cutie patootie and she truly does keep me busy.

LOVE this face. :o) She is such a sweetie. She won't be one to let anyone push her around, though.

She keeps an eye on things and knows to whom each and every item in the house belongs, and will chase that person down, calling their name, in order to give it to them.

She sees photos of people she knows and loves and identifies them. Last night, she looked waaaay up high on my tippy top shelf and said (while pointing), "GG!) And it was. :o)

She loves to look at photos of her big sisters and try to figure out who is who.

She doesn't have time to be little. She is ready to be big. RIGHT NOW! She helps move laundry from the washer to the dryer (climbing almost inside as her little feet leave the ground), pushes the buttons to start the machine, and so much more.

She makes sure her laundry (and mine. and daddy's.) is in the hamper and puts her pajamas away every morning.

She loves to play with anything that may potentially belong to Lily. She is especially enamored of Lil's Tag pen and her new 'mote control car. Oh, and my lap top and phone. She loves those as well. :shakes head:

Her speech is exploding all over the place. "Lil-lu-lu-lu-lu-ly" has been replaced with "Will-wee" or "Wil-ly" and she can say the names of most of her family members. She has yet to meet a stranger and will walk up to anyone to size them up and then demand a hug. Yikes!

Her newest favorite food is "chock-ick" and her pallet is beginning to contract some. I hate it when that happens...

Meanwhile, this big girl's pallet is expanding all over the place! She will try and eat so many things we couldn't get her to go near just six months ago. :o)

Lordy she's getting big.

Okay, maybe "big" isn't the right word. You saw that picture of her with the two other angels--who are YOUNGER than she. But, she's looking so much older. In our house, we like to say we have "babies", "toddlers", "big kids" and then "kids". Well, she's now a "kid".

She's a truly wonderful child, full of imagination and fantasy. She makes my heart nearly burst when she shows such love, care and devotion to her little sister. Her 'mote car was brand new yesterday and she let Ellie play with it, showing her how to work the controls. She doesn't gripe or complain when El gets into her Tag, she simply cleans it up.

Six. What a glorious age, six. She believes--oh how she believes--in Santa and fairies and magic, and yet, she's practical and wants to know how everything works. She constantly needs explanations about the wherefores and whys of the world.

She's a messy little pack rat who has been known to stuff dirty clothes into corners, but she's patient and kind and truly seems to want to be friends with everyone.

She's cracker jack smart too.

Her reading is coming along beautifully and I'm hoping we get to experience the "Christmas Miracle" that so many primary grade teachers are privileged to witness.

The "Christmas Miracle" reveals itself when children who could barely read or were struggling along, or, were even on grade level suddenly find all those letters and sounds make sense in that context and start reading like gang busters. It could be a big miracle such as that, or a smaller one, but somehow, it always seemed my kiddos would come back from break, and over half of them experienced it.

I so dearly wish for Lil to love reading as much as B and I. Oh, and her little sister. ;o)

We are blessed by her.

And, continuing to count my blessings, we have wonderful family close by with whom we can visit fairly frequently. I'll be getting together with Jen and her kiddos this evening. I know Lil will be stoked to visit her cousins. :o)

I'm blessed to have a husband who is handy and a child who is healthy and walking and climbing and an excellent problem solver. For the first time ever in this house we are without baby gates downstairs. You see, the other day, B was walking through with a large load and Ellie opened the baby gate for him and promptly closed it behind him. Yup. Those baby gates are really effective at this point...

So, I'm left with a wall that needs some repairs and a bit of paint (boy, I have no idea how I lived with that tobacco gold for so long...).

I blessed I have a husband who rather ungrudgingly tolerates having four Christmas trees in the house, even though he has told me if he were to live alone he probably wouldn't put up any decorations. Wha...? I can't even imagine.

I'm blessed I had a grandmother who loved us all so much she started a family tradition of candy making and passed the recipes down to us so we in turn could show our families our love for them.

I'm blessed to have wonderful friends who send random gifts out of the blue and include gift tags with butterflies because of a special Monkey Girl.

And friends who continue to send ornaments for Hannah's tree every year. Thank you, Jaydee and Lou, this is perfect.

And, still more butterflies. Dani, the girls loved this one--as did I. :o)

I figure I must have put something good out there to have so much good come to me and I'm thankful for that. I gave thanks at Thanksgiving, but I'm even more appreciative as Christmas approaches and we'll be celebrating the day once more without a special sparkly girl.

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Today's Sparklies:

1. Holly was sent an early Christmas present:

It's almost as big as she is!
2. Just about all the gift wrapping is done!
3. All cards are addressed, signed and stuffed into envelopes. Now to get stamps tomorrow...
4. It's the last day of school until 1/3!!!!!! I'm SOOOOO excited!!
5. Meeting up with Jen and her kids tonight. :o)
6. Talking with Dani today. It's always good to catch up.
7. This one is from Monday, but still fun:

Fisbee and Santa remembered Lil's birthday!

Fisbee even has a sparkly party hat to match the one on the card!

No milestones.

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever--St. Olaf Edition

2011-12-20T14:07:00.001-05:00

I don't know about you all, but I was in my church Christmas pageant from as far back as I can remember until I went off to college. And, in fact, I remember coming back one Christmas and being put in the choir because they needed extra voices--even though I hadn't attended any practices! Ah, the joys of a small (and I mean small church).

Each and every year I was an angel with a white robe, tinsel around the neck (that itched something fierce!) and tinsel for a halo. But, it was more than just the itchiness and white robe, it was being a part of something bigger, of celebrating the birth of our Lord and Savior, doing what I could to help honor his arrival.

Lily wanted to do that and Brien and I came along for the ride. And, oh, what a joyful, funny, wonderful ride it was! :o) I have posted below the highlights from Sunday evening. A few disclaimers before we get to them:
1. I was using my little point and shoot with no flash--so as not to disturb the actors.
2. I was trying desperately to shoot between heads, shoulders, and arms held high over heads as they too tried to get decent shots (boy digital cameras have changed the way we take photos!).
3. It was dark.
4. The kids were moving.
5. Just because I have to have a multiple of five. ;o)

The narrators. Also known as the girls who absconded with Beanie later in the evening. ;o)

See, shooting between heads!

Alllllmost got it.

Ah, there she is!

The angel Gabriel.

The angels circling Mary as she sleeps and dreams of what has been foretold.

The back of Miss Bit.

I saw her craning her little neck to try to find me. She did, she grinned, I snapped. Pop laughed. :o)

Mary sang a beautiful solo that brought tears to my eyes.

Most of the cast.

Ellie got into the groove of things, clapping and singing along. :o)

Singing "Silent Night".

We practiced and practiced and practiced.

Now she wants to sing it all the time. There are FAR worse songs she could be wanting to sing.

"All is calm."

"All is bright."

The little girl to her left is her church buddy. They are so cute together.

Oh I LOVE this face. I sincerely wish it weren't fuzzy. Oh well.

Please note, all three of the little angels up there are standing on the same step. I promise.

See? I sometimes forget just itty Bitty is.

Oh how wonderful this was. I'm so happy Lil decided she needed to be a part of it. :o)

So, how about you all, did any of you participate in a Christmas pageant? What role did you play? Were you a perpetual angel like me? :oP

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Today's Sparklies:

1. Taking time to sit and reflect and be more mindful of my spiritual life this time of year. Duh! Isn't that what we're supposed to do?? Sometimes I'm a bit slow on the uptake. ;oP
2. Snuggling with my Holly dog. :o)
3. I'm a gift wrapping machine, folks! And, speaking of which, I should be getting back to that right about now. Oops!

Milestone:
Lil's one day into six. I did it. I got a child past five years, 9 months and 28 days. I got her all the way to six. I cannot begin to tell you what a relief this is. Silly? Yes. But, still there, lurking, nonetheless.

*****ETA*****
For those of you out there who enjoy "Angry Birds" as much as I, this is a must watch:

Well done, no?

My Bitty is Six!

2011-12-19T21:03:00.003-05:00

Well, it happened, my girlie turned six. Oh what a sweet, precious, patient child she is.

She came in our bathroom this morning as we were getting ready, all excited about her special day. And, oh what a day she had.

There was one gift to open this morning (B had already gone to work), from Robin. She sent one of her extra geologist's loupes with some cord for Lil to use to be able to wear it. For a child who adores magnifying glasses, it was a perfect gift.

Ah, but I'm getting ahead of myself. First, there was this.

A birthday card from Santa and Fisbee!

See, Fisb is even wearing a party hat!

Then there was the card and gift, and then reindeer pancakes for brekky. I took a photo with my phone but I haven't downloaded the photos yet. Sorry.

But, that was it. No more presents. No more cards. Nothing until almost 8:00 tonight. And she was fine with that! What a wonderful child. She was thrilled with everything she received--three Melissa & Doug stamp sets from my mom, a remote control LPS car and walking LPS critter from Nan and Pop, a Zhu Zhu from Ellie, a magazine subscription from Jessie and her family, and two tag books and a Melissa & Doug stir fry set from us. Whew! The child racked up! :oP

We did dinner at Carrabba's so Bitty could have the steak and mushrooms she wanted. She filled up on dinner. In fact, she was SO full she declined to eat any of her birthday brownies. Yes, the darling requested brownies with chocolate frosting. Perfect.

Yes, she may drive me absolutely batty with her pokiness and distractedness. Grate on my every last nerve with her stubborness. And, yet, she's one delightfully perfect little six year old girl. Such perfection to be found in such imperfections. :happy sigh:

As for me, after last night's frantic, pity-party dump of a post, I'm doing SO much better! I set about cleaning up my house and decluttering, which of course set me on a more even keel. Then, I was able to get bunches done today (minus cleaning the bathrooms, but who needs clean bathrooms anyway?!?) and I feel so good about that.

But, more importantly, I just took time to sit and listen and be still. That more than anything was key. God gave me a bit of a swift kick upside the hiney and I heard Him. There are so many things out there that are more important than my self-imposed timelines and activities, and He helped me to see that and take a broader focus once more. Which was definitely a good thing.

Do I still need to brave the post office to get stamps? Alas, yes. But, I'm doing click and ship from home, so I can use the stamp machines instead. Whew. Do I still have batches of cookies and cakes to make? Yup. Will it kill me if they aren't done? Nope. And, I'm good with that. :contented sigh:

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Today's Sparklies:

1. Lil's birthday! What a kid! She got to make a crown at school, got to stand up ON her seat at lunch and have all the kids sing happy birthday to her. She wore her crown all day--even out to dinner. :o)
2. Getting so much done today. It helped me chill.
3. It's beginning to look a bit like Christmas under our tree. :o)
4. Erin called and asked to talk to Lil and wished her a happy birthday. Lil heard it was Erin and exclaimed, "I MISS you!" So sweet. We haven't seen them in forever.
5. Have I mentioned yet that Josh and Dana are coming into town just after Christmas and bringing sweet baby Ever with them? Sweet baby E whom I've yet to actually hold and touch and snuggle? I can't WAIT to see them!
6. The ability to be flexible. We had plans with Jen's family for Wednesday evening. But, due to Uncle Sam's viewing and funeral, those plans will need to be altered a bit.

Milestone:
Well, this one's a biggie. Lil's six. Hannah never was. It seems strange to say I have a six year old, when I know there is a big sister who will never be six. And yet, the yo is up. I think it was much harder for me when Lil hit that magical day when she was officially older than Hannah ever was. Today is just another bittersweet moment in a looooooong line of bittersweet moments. There are many more to come, I know. And yet, they don't scare me and leave me anxious and anxiety-filled as they once would have. Time. It's all about time...

Happy Sixth Birthday, Bitty!

2011-12-18T21:20:00.000-05:00

At this time six years ago, I was huffing and puffing in a hospital room desperately longing for pain meds, hoping against hope they would decide to keep me instead of sending me home. Thank goodness they kept me. And then I got some pain relief, and then 12 hours later, Bitty made her entrance into the world.

There are so many wonderful things I could say about this sweet girl, but I'll leave it at this (for now), I love her with all my heart and with every fiber of my being. We were blessed she joined our family and I can't wait to see the person she becomes (she's already pretty awesome already!).

We had the children's Christmas pageant this evening and it was beyond delightful. I'm beat. B's beat. The girls are beyond knackered. Ellie was loved on by all the fifth grade girls who seemed to think she was their own REAL "Baby Alive" doll. I dosed her with some medicine before bed as I'm sure she is bound to be sore after being hauled around for close to an hour.

Miss Bit was the sweetest Little Angel you have ever seen. I can hardly believe just how big she is. She's a real "kid" now, not just a "big kid" toddler. My mind boggles. And, she's going to be six. SIX. Man. :shakes head:

Since she's already older than Hannah was, I don't anticipate much difficulty tomorrow, but we'll see.

Tomorrow is all about this big girl. We'll have brownies with chocolate frosting, and dinner at Carrabba's since she requested steak with mushrooms and salad. :o)

Meanwhile, I've been bad at managing my time this year. I have NO idea how it has happened, but I feel as if I'm once more entering full-on panic mode and I keep asking myself, "What's the worst that will happen if you don't do _____________?" So far, the world won't end if these things don't happen, so I'm going to stop and simple be.

The cards will get mailed, and if they arrive after Christmas, so be it. If there are no Noel balls, well, I'll be sad, but life goes on. The gifts do need to be wrapped, but I've got that in the bag. And, I do need to make a birthday card for my girl. And get her birthday gifts wrapped. And make her brownies. And clean the house. And prepare for Christmas dinner. And...and...and... Yeah, gotta just stop and BE. Father reminded us this morning to just take ten seconds to pause and breathe and feel God's grace. I need to remember this.

Although there are many sparklies from my weekend, the biggest was the Christmas Pageant and the kids. Oh, and my parish. Lordy I love my church. I love that there are so many families and everyone seems to know everyone else and which children belong with which parents. If you are looking for a kid--you know, craning your neck--typically you'll be met with, "Oh, they're over there" without even having to ask. We had a HUGE spread after the pageant and kids were simply everywhere. It was a wonderful time of fellowship and it reminded me a bit of the third Friday fellowship suppers we had when I was growing up. The kids were one place playing and laughing and gorging themselves on desserts while the adults socialized. It was fantastic.

And, speaking of how much I love my parish, I'm putting out a request for prayers and positive thoughts for one of our young babies. One of our four year olds was in a tragic accident and has been burned from neck to toes, front and back and is currently in a burn unit at MCV. Every time I think about it, I'm reduced to tears. This poor baby. His family. Oh.

Additionally, Brien's Great Uncle Sam passed away this morning. We're not sure when the funeral will be, but it definitely has bearing on this week's plans as B will need to get to West Virginia.

Posting may be in fits and starts this week. I'm sorry. I feel like my head is ready to pop off. Gotta remember to just BE!!

Naughty Naughty Fisbee!

2011-12-17T09:01:00.003-05:00

Before we get to Fisbee's latest antics, I thought I would share the wreath I made for my front door since the other one went to live at Jessie's house.

I was a little more confident this time, having made one already. I also had a better idea about placement of items and such.

It's still super floofy and whimsical and I love it every bit as much as the one Jessie took home. :o)

Next, I caught some photos of the girls that just made me smile and I had to post them.

Want to know about those red noses? Read on. Fisbee was baaaaaaaad last night.

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Fisbee Watch

Thursday night Fisbee indulged in a bit of a bubble bath.

Last night, though, he was NAUGHTY!!

Look at those noses! Oh how they laughed and laughed! Best of all, Jori's girls had their noses painted last night as well! Those crazy, naughty elves!

Lil is off to a birthday party this afternoon--B's taking her--so I'm going to work on cards. I also need to make some cookies for the reception after the pageant tomorrow.

I want to get my Christmas cards mailed by Monday--that includes a couple of packages I have to send--and since Lil's last day is Wednesday, I'd like to get the gifts wrapped before then.

Things continue to come together and I couldn't be happier. I LOVE this time of year! :o)

A Whirlwind Visit

2011-12-15T19:10:00.000-05:00

Jessie and the kiddos arrived at dinner time last night and left right before lunch this afternoon. We managed to pack a LOT of activity into the short space of time.

Beanie learned this trick from her sister. I do believe this is her theme song.
Ellie got her first haircut.

Lily had Jessie chop her hair off. She decided she was tired of all the pulling and snarling and snagging and hair being pulled back. I think it looks fabulous!
Brien got a haircut.
I got a cut and foil. YES!
Ellie was up six times between midnight and 3:30--I'm a bit beat today.
The kids all played. Lots. And lots.

I made 65 java shortbread cookies for Jessie's cookie exchange.
I played with Ella, Gabriel and Ellie while Jess shopped.
The kids and I ran Lil's lunchbox to her in time for lunch (Lil and I forgot it this morning. Oops!)
We cleaned up the playroom.

They left and I collapsed in a heap of tired. It was SO good to see them, but boy am I ready to crash (I think it has something to do with sharing a bed with Lil and only getting about 2 1/2 hours' sleep.)

Tomorrow I'll make another wreath (I sent Jess home with mine) and work on cards. I'd dearly love to have a pajama day, but, alas, I have to take Lil to the bus stop. Oh, and we have pageant practice tomorrow night. And then, we have a party Saturday. I think I would like to collapse into a quivering heap of nothing instead of all that. ;o)

Yesterday's devotional reading talked about finding peace in the middle of chaos. I need to work on finding that peace.

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Fisbee Watch

Our boy decided to chillax a bit in the Christmas tree last night. :o) I think all that ropin' and ridin' and costume makin' plum tuckered him out the night before. ;o)

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Today's Sparklies:

They're all up there, I promise. I'm ready to sit and watch "A Charlie Brown Christmas" with my girl. :o)

Ride 'em Cowelf!

2011-12-14T13:37:00.000-05:00

Jessie's coming sometime today so I'm posting now so I can visit with her tonight. Oh, that, and get my hair done. ;o)

My Big Girl has been staying up late the past few nights. The night before it was to watch "I Want a Dog For Christmas, Charlie Brown". Last night it was to help make fondant. Now then, that's not to say it's late late, just late for her. When your bedtime is typically 7:00, 9:00 is late. (The child will wake up between 6:30 and 7:00 no matter what time we put her to bed, and since I like a nice, well-rested child, 7:00 bedtime and 7:30 lights out is what works in our house.)

Bitty has helped make Christmas candy for two years now, and knows the drill. This year I let her run the microwave. :o) She melted the butter and the chocolate chips and did a might fine job of it.

I also let her mix the powdered sugar/powdered milk mixture into the melted butter mixture until it got too hard to stir at which point I took over. I have to say I'm much happier this year. I found my usual Carnation powdered milk and Cut-Rite wax paper and things were SOOOO much better. The milk didn't leave unsightly lumps and the paper rolled like a dream with no fondant sticking to it. Whew!

I'll make another double batch this evening and the fondant is done. Woo hoo! I also want to try to get to the java shortbread, but can do that next week, especially since I'm supposed to be helping Jess make 4 dozen cookies. Eek! Okay, tell me this, why does saying "four dozen" sound so much worse than "48"?

Like her Christmas bracelet? When we picked up the fleece for Ellie's blanket, we got floss for a bracelet--she insisted. :o)

Anyhow, the two of us made an excellent team,

and Bear supervised. It was a bit discombobulating at first, as Bear has quite the stare, but soon I forgot he was even there. :o)

Meanwhile, things have been non-stop this morning. I cleaned the downstairs bathroom and vacuumed before getting Lil on the bus. Ellie and I made a quick trip to the 'Jay to get her medicine, and then home again home again where I thoroughly cleaned the guest room (Jess had a bit of a cat allergy), vacuuming the bed, changing all bed linens, etc. I move a nightstand from Lil's room to the guest room, rearranged Lil's room and steam cleaned the carpets in the guest room, the bridge, our room and the high traffic areas downstairs. Whew! Then, I went back through and cleaned up all the messes Beanie made while I was busy cleaning. ;o)

It's amazing what I can accomplish if I want to. :oP

I found a pin on Pinterest the other day that I thought was interesting--how to clean your house in just 15 minutes a day. Um...okay. So, I checked it out, and the woman does what I do. I have a couple specific chores for each day of the week and do them thoroughly and the house stays clean (not neat, mind you, but clean at any rate). I also don't have to do anything on the weekends, which is just lovely! :o) However, it takes me about 30 minutes to an hour, NOT 15 minutes. But, it's not all day on the weekend, right? Maybe I should write about that someday...

For now, though, I have a bunch of cards calling to me from the offudio, desperate to be put together. :o)

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Fisbee Watch

We almost died this morning when Lil came upstairs and informed us our elf was riding Brien's piggy bank like a cowboy, complete with chaps, lasso and boots! He even carried his snowman with him and pilfered the cow from the "activity" (alas, Lil has taken to actually calling it a "nativity" this year).

Oh, he also had a big old belt buckle and was using his blanket as a saddle blanket. Oh my.

I know it's a bit fuzzy, but can you see the tiny jingle bells he used to accessorize his chaps?

And, his boots.

He picked one wild pig to ride, that's for sure. B and I still aren't sure how he managed to get into our room and ride the pig out of there without us hearing him. Man, he's good.

So much for three consecutive nights of no naughtiness.

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Today's Sparklies:

It's early yet, but so far:
1. Getting ALL that work done. Whew!
2. Fisbee--he makes me laugh!
3. Jessie and the kids are coming. :o)
4. Watching Fred knead and knead and knead the blanket he was lying on in a rather hypnotic stupor. He almost fell over three times--I was waiting for it to happen. ;o)

No milestones.

Unloading Phone Photos

2011-12-13T19:22:00.002-05:00

I had 52 images on my phone. I had NO idea. They needed to come off. I needed to share. So, here they are. :o)

Could someone please tell me what it is about boxes and my children? And, boy howdy does this one love "bocks". As I've said so many times, it's the only time she's still. I got her three new Karen Katz books and she has read them and reread them about fifty times each today. I'm good with that. ;o)

She also likes to be a "big" girl in the play kitchen. I'll find her concocting, cooking, whisking and stirring up a storm.

I knew she would love the P'Kolino chair when we got it. I also knew it was something she was going to have to grow into. And, grow into she has. :o)

Can you see the badness going on under the tree? I know it's hard to tell, but there are two very bad (Bad Kitties I tell you!) kittehs under that tree.

That was Waylen's favorite spot last year. He would hunker down on the warm, fuzzy tree skirt and soak up the sun. Boy do I miss my Buddy Dog.

And, another angle for you. Fred's looking at you. See?

And, a disdainful kitteh who was none too pleased with me interrupting his nap. We believe Fred's collar may be Kryptonite. He is mild mannered and reasonably well-behaved when he's wearing it. When it's off...well, let's just say he does all in his power to get the thing off and then it's game on. ;o)

Doesn't this image look as if it could be straight out of a horror movie? :shudder: Holly decapitated one of her toys and began to unstuff it as well. The irony (not the word I'm looking for, it's eluding me--UGH! I hate it when that happens.) of the smiling happy pig face that is unattached to a body really struck me. Call it an artsy fartsy shot. ;o)

******************************

Fisbee Watch

Our boy was rather well behaved again last night. Sure, he was sitting on Brien's gingerbread house, but I don't think he ate any of it. :oP

We found this note sitting in his lap.

So, what could we do but check our email. There were TWO cards in there waiting for the girls--one from Fisbee and one from Buddy!! I have to say, I've rather enjoyed these past low-key evenings--which means we're in for a doozy tonight. You watch...

Alisa, Fisbee is indeed a real elf. He stays in one spot the entire day, watching the goings on of the girls and then popping back to the North Pole at night to report to Santa. No human hands may touch the elf or the elf magic is gone and he can no longer do his job.

**************************
Today's Sparklies:

1. I picked up a free App--Snoopy's Fair--and within it there is a photo booth.

How fun are the little cartoons?
2. More stamping time. :o) The gift tags are almost finished. Hooray!
3. Chilling about the things I have to do. Whew!
4. Lil and I got two batches of fondant made this evening. Yay!

No milestones.

*************************
Amy W., I'm going to post all info about the cards over on "Monkey Studio Designs". But, if you need the info now, let me know and I'll email you. Just tell me specifically which cards you are interested in. :o)

P.S. Jane, you and your friend make me smile so BIG--Thanks, guys!

Slowly Getting There

2011-12-12T18:03:00.000-05:00

I'm making progress--just at a slower pace than last year. Last year, although Lil and I were doing school, Ellie was taking two naps a day and into much less mischief than she is this year. At least, that's my excuse and I'm sticking to it. ;o)

I finally got all my card ideas together and cut out the materials. I should be able to get them knocked out before Friday.

This one is cake.

As is this one.

I utterly ADORE this one--it's my favorite this year--but it takes a bit more work as I have to be careful to align all the snowflakes correctly.

There are two versions of this one and B and I are still trying to decide which of the two we like better.

Last night we liked this one better because of the perceived depth of the trees, but maybe I like the top one better in daylight. Who knows.

What I do know is I'll be making this one last because it involves lots and lots of sparkles which means glitter everywhere. EVERYWHERE. Oh my. This one will also be the most time intensive since it either involves the heat gun and glue and glitter, or just glue and glitter. Either way there is drying time involved.

I still have gift tags to make (those should come together in no time), gifts to wrap (both birthday AND Christmas!) and fondant, Noel balls, java shortbread and another batch of ginger cookies to make.

Jessie will be here Wednesday so I need to clean up the school room so she has some place to work with Ella. I'm also going to help her make some cookies for her cookie exchange.

There's still plenty of time, I know that, but I'm beginning to feel a bit harried. Eek! I think once the fondant is made and the cards are starting to come together I'll be MUCH better. Whew.

This next bit is mostly for my own records--
Ellie seems to have a bit of a yeast infection we'll be treating. Joy. I'm sure she's going to looooove that. :oS

********************************

Fisbee Watch

So, it would seem Lil left her dirty socks in the middle of the kitchen last night. Fisbee obviously found them, and is currently wearing them as he sits on the light fixture above the kitchen table. Awesome.

***************************
Today's Sparklies:

1. Not having to go to the doctor to have them call in a prescription for Ellie.
2. Low-key day.
3. Working in the offudio. That's always such a stress-free time for me.
4. Easy dinner of steak terriyake and salad for dinner. Mm.
5. I got the last odds and ends for a couple more floofy wreaths. :o)
6. Snuggling with Beanie. Bless her heart, she doesn't feel well and wants to be cuddled. I can understand that. But, it's the only time she will be still long enough for me to snuggle her.

No milestones.

Candy Making Part I is Finished

2011-12-11T15:44:00.000-05:00

Final count: 262 peanut butter balls

95 mounds candies

48 cream cheese mints

1 1/2 batches of trash

Anything that had to be dipped in chocolate got made yesterday and the rest of the melted chocolate was used to make the trash.

"Reverse angle shot" (in honor of Papa). Lil and I will be making ginger cookies this afternoon (and refilled Pop's Charles Chips can for him). Tomorrow Bean and I will make a couple batches of the mint fondant we make around here, and Tuesday we'll make java shortbread. Mm.

Then, next week I'll make Noel balls and a fresh batch of ginger cookies. So much baking. Whew. I love to do it, I really do, but boy am I tired today.

Jessie and her gang are supposed to come down Wednesday. I bribed her to come and cut my hair. In exchange, she'll get her Christmas goodies, a floofy wreath and I'll help her make four dozen cookies for her cookie exchange. I figure I'm still coming out ahead since I want her to cut Beanie's hair...;oP

I've come up with three card designs now and have cut the paper for them. I have one more card to design and that's finished. I'm hoping to get to that after the girls go to bed tonight.

I also still want to make gift tags and I need to wrap the presents. I'm going very simple this year with kraft paper and red and white ribbon. I hope it looks as fabulous as I think it will. :fingers crossed:

*********************************

Fisbee Watch

No naughtiness or mayhem last night. I suppose even Fisbee takes a day of rest for the Sabbath. :o)

*********************************
Weekend Sparklies:

1. Candy making getting done.
2. Lil and her fellow "little angels" were so sweet at pageant practice yesterday.
3. Lil had fun at Sydney's party yesterday.
4. Card parts and pieces cut out and ready to assemble.
5. Time at home with my family.

No milestones.

Weekend So Far

2011-12-10T14:59:00.000-05:00

I decided to try my hand at a night shot of Ellie in front of the tree.

Both of these are a bit fuzzy, but I confess, I do like them both. Had I a child who would stand still for more than 0.000002 seconds, I might have a bit more luck. ;o)

Last night, Bitty and I worked on--and finished!--her gift to Beanie.

She was a tying dynamo.

That is some amazingly soft fleece and Lil decided she needs to make one for herself once the after Christmas sales roll around.

We had a couple of scrap pieces of fleece leftover, and looking at them, she decided Fisbee needed a scarf and blanket. She left them for him last night--which was a good thing, given his nightly antics.

******************************

Fisbee Watch

Thursday evening Fisbee discovered a tasty snack of goldfish and water (and a couple of number fives for good measure) left for him by Bitty (after seeing Jori's sweet girl do the same for Buddy). He took it easy, reading The Cajun Night Before Christmas and snacking away. I think he was saving up his energy for last night's endeavors...

He incited a snowball fight! He recruited some of the smaller stuffed loveys, built fortifications and went to town.

They must have built the snowman BEFORE the fight began since he too seems to be in on the action.

See the scarf and blanket? And his stockpile of snowballs?

The Groovy Girl has her own stockpile there. And, her own crew of defenders.

Although, one of them seems a bit distracted by the treats...

We're making candy today--peanut butter balls, mounds candy, cream cheese mints, and trash. Tomorrow Lil and I will make ginger cookies after church and religious ed. We'll be getting an early afternoon start, so with any luck, will have them done by dinner time.

B and Lil are heading to a party in Hampton, so all the candy will wait to be dipped until they return this evening. Ellie and I will get into something--not sure what just yet--and I'll work on gift tags until she gets up.

I still have three batches of fondant to make, two batches of ginger cookies, some java shortbread, a number of orange chocolate loaf cakes and some Noel balls. Whew. But, I've gotten a good start today!

Right Now in My House

2011-12-08T16:36:00.000-05:00

It's warm and sunny in our house. Snoozin' kitty George.

Snoozin' Holly.

Snoozin' Fred.

Holly changed positions.

The baby is napping. The trees are lit. The mulling spices are simmering. The Pandora "White Christmas" station is playing. All is peaceful and wonderful.

I'm off to work up some Christmas card designs. I came up with two last night--you can check them out over here--and still need a couple more.

I'll leave you with this video of Ellie from yesterday:

Boy she's growing up quickly.

*******************************

Fisbee Watch

Ah, so this is why he made those preacher cookies for yesterday. He wanted to get into the oatmeal last night. What a mess!

******************************
Today's Sparklies:

1. Check out Lil's writing from last night's homework:

I was impressed. :o)

2. Ellie playing in the kitchen.

She was pouring milk, cracking eggs and whisking. Made me smile very big. :o)
3. All the peaceful sleeping going on around here. It truly was a lovely day.
4. Thank you for the sweet compliments on my wreath. :o)
5. It's finally cool around here again. A massive cold front quite literally blasted in last night. Whew! Talk about wind and rain!
6. The woodpecker on the bird feeder this morning. What a fantastic gift that was.
7. Making time for me to work in the offudio and get some cards made. I need to do that more. I always say that, but then don't. Well, now I DO mean it.

No milestones.

********************************
This was obviously written earlier today, before the chaos that occurred in Blacksburg. I just don't understand. Blacksburg is such a safe place, it really is. How these things keep happening confounds me. My prayers for all in Blacksburg, especially those on the Tech campus and those affected by this man's actions. Prayers especially for the family of the policeman who was killed.

My First Wreath

2011-12-07T17:32:00.000-05:00

As crafty as I am when it comes to cards, I'm not very crafty in other areas, although I'm trying to branch out. I've never made a wreath before and since the one we purchased from church wound up dried-out and fried within two hours of placing it on my front door (don't even get me started on my loathing for the heat of that door!) I was in need of something new.

I found this one on Pinterest and fell in love. It was full of whimsy and character and I found it fabulous. Now, with that said, my decorating style and taste (applies to cards as well), runs along clean, simple, rather elegant lines, and this wreath has none of that. I found the "Jolly Holiday" theme at Pier1 fun and fantastic, but knew there was no way it would fit in my house. Ahhh, there's the key, in my house. Perfect!

I picked up all the items I could find that I thought would be fun and fantastic and got to work. Now, I did mention I have nary a crafty bone in my body outside of card making, right? Well, my wreath was not nearly so floofy and fun as the original.

But, you know what, I like it! In fact, I really like. I may even love it. :o) It's fun, it's floofy-ish, it's festive, and it caters to that sparkly whimsical side that I can't indulge inside. And, it was FUN to put together too. :o)

Brien is very diplomatic and says, "It's...er...rather...um, nontraditional. But, I like it." He's a good man. :o) I'm sure he positively loathes it, but because it makes me happy, and because he truly doesn't care about home decor and such (outside of me asking him to help), he's fine with it.

Lily, now she's another story. She ADORES it. :o) It dolls up the front of the house, that's for sure. Too bad it doesn't go with those trees. ;oP

***********************************

Fisbee Watch

I knew he was up to something hanging out in those cookie cutters yesterday.

We came downstairs this morning to find he had made us a batch of Preacher Cookies (no-bake cookies for you non-Appalachian folks out there). I suppose it's a good thing he wasn't playing with the oven, huh?

My question is, where did he get that apron? Hm...

*********************
Today's Sparklies:

1. The weather held so the Kindergartners could go on their field trip to Jamestown. Hooray! It was sunny and 70 this morning (NOT December, but perfect for a an outside field trip).
2. I sorted through the toys in the playroom and made piles to be donated, to be trashed and to be put away for later. It looks fabulous in there. :o)
3. Fred surveying his domain:

He and George both hang out up there watching the world go by. They use the cat condo as a ramp and will jump from the top of the entertainment center up onto the bridge! Or, they'll jump off the bridge on to the entertainment center. It's a real kitty highway, that's for sure.

4. And, speaking of the kitties, they have (oh goodness, I'm SO going to regret typing this for bad things are going to happen now) left the trees and decorations alone. I'm shocked, but quite happy by this. :o)

5. Also, the sweet little shoulder-sitting kittens have been replaced by these 10 pound monsters. And, they're still growing! They are still very sweet, though. :o)

6. Getting started on my Christmas cards. I think I'm behind this year...

No milestones.

It's Time to Elf Yourself!

2011-12-06T18:15:00.003-05:00

I put it off as long as I could. I tried to ignore it, but there was a voice calling to me, "Raaaaay-chul. Coooooome. It's time to Elf Yourself." Well, what could I do but go and do so?

I found cute photos of my girls and Jess's kiddos and went to town.

Please note Grace's paci. I could find NO photos of the little munchkin sans binky, making these especially funny. I thought this one was particularly funny given the presence of the paci:

Like how the paci splits itself to allow Gracie to sing? :oP

And, it's the time of year I share some of my favorite Christmas links:

The 2004 Ashland University Christmas Card
NORAD Santa Tracking
Ugly Christmas Sweater Party
Elf on the Shelf
Fun Christmas cards with Santa and his reindeer
Portable North Pole--Santa will send your child a video and email!
Holiday Snowglobe

And, lest I forget, there's this:

There are definitely repeats from last year. If you have any fun Christmas-y sites, please share them with me! :o)

******************************

Fisbee Watch

The silly boy was REALLY hard to find this morning. He was in amongst the cookie cutters (I wonder if he's making plans...) on the wet bar.

*********************************

Today's Sparklies:

1. I got my red mesh ribbon today and put together my tacky wreath. YAY!

2. A lazy day since I got all my chores for today done yesterday.

3. Time in the offudio.

4. Dinner in the crock pot and rice cooker. I love a nice, easy meal.

5. Glitter and sparklies covering me from head to foot thanks to my wreath making endeavors. ;o)

No milestones.

Gingerbread House Production

2011-12-05T19:51:00.000-05:00

Here they are, all finished. I was so chuffed Grandma (or GG, you know depending upon who you may be) had put together three houses so I could make one too. :o) Well, Ellie and I at any rate. (I'm sure you have NO idea which one I made...)

Grandma bakes the gingerbread pieces and glues them together with melted sugar. She puts together popcorn balls for shrubs and trees and

gathers an assortment of candies (that are very difficult to resist, I might add!).

Last year there were only these little A-frame guys. I happen to love this little house and was more than happy to decorate it. :o)

Grandma created a pattern and put together two more traditional houses this year as well. The gingerbread is simply our ginger cookie recipe (meaning there were plenty of ginger cookies to nom upon as well).

And here GG whips up the "snow" or "glue". It's egg whites, powdered sugar and white vinegar.

Ellie sat and nibbled on candy (if what she did could be called "nibble", that is) and watched the goings on. She began to ask for emmies (M&M's for those not in the know) and reaching for our house. She decorated one side and I did the others. She's only 19 months old, her attention span is no match for the pull of candy canes and other sugary goodies.

Lil, meanwhile, had a plan and got right to work. She was an old hand at this this year, having done it last year. She knew where she wanted her snow and how she wanted to go about decorating.

She worked hard and ate harder. ;o)

I always think you can tell just how successful a day was based on the level of filth on your clothes. The dirtier the clothing, the more fun you had. :o)

Grandma had to whip up a second bowl of snow we used so much. You have to use this stuff fairly quickly because it will set and crystalize if you aren't careful.

Brien fooled around with the candy canes and found you could make a very cute sign holder off the top. (Like his VT?)

I Roy G Biv'd the heck out of mine (hey, those little Sweet Tarts lent themselves perfectly to being little rainbow twinkle lights!) and put in a Gummi Bear bonfire. Ellie decorated this side of the roof.

Lil's was definitely the most colorful of the three.

Do you see the candies staring at you? She intentionally made them so they would do just that. Crazy kid.

Every gingerbread house I've ever seen Brien make has this little wreath.

Ellie's last addition to our house was the little grape quarter up there in the middle. It's now looking like a shriveled raisin.

My goodness we had a fun time! I think GG enjoyed herself too. I'm so glad she's around to do this with Bitty and Bean. What wonderful memories they're going to have of time spent with their GG.

Here is the original page Grandma found for the houses. Please note the sticky saying where Brien's, Jen's and Josh's houses were to go. That changed every year.

And, here's the original recipe and template. I do believe it is dated December-January 1976-1977. This has been around awhile.

And, the wax paper templates she uses. I know making the gingerbread pieces, the glue and putting them together is a time consuming endeavor and I'm grateful to GG for doing it for us.

As we made plans to leave Sunday morning, Grandma asked Lil if she could keep one of the houses to decorate her house. Lil, of course, said, "Sure." Grandma then asked which house Lil would like to leave for her and Lily said something along the lines of, "Well, why don't you keep mine? I know how much you loved it so you can keep it." What a sweet sweet girl. :o)

********************************

Fisbee Watch

Have you guys seen Fisbee? I can't seem to find him...

**************************
Today's Sparklies:

1. Ellie and I spent an hour out front cleaning up the front beds and pulling weeds. It felt good to be outside working, and the front beds looks SO much better. Now, if we could just get the weeds in the sidewalk to croak all would be perfect. B has used Round Up on them and they're malingering. ARG!

2. Bathrooms, vacuuming, laundry and kitchen floors done today so I can work on cards and such tomorrow.

3. The mulling spices are simmering on the stove once more. Mm.

4. Our daily text from Jori about Buddy's shenanigans. :o)

5. I read today. For two whole hours. Uninterrupted. Oh sweet heaven.

No milestones.

Busy Weekend

2011-12-04T18:59:00.001-05:00

We made a quick trip down to the 'burg (or fairly close to it at any rate) this weekend to visit this wonderful lady and her husband.

The plan was to make some of these guys and have a nice visit.

We accomplished both. :o)

The girls seemed to thoroughly enjoy themselves.

How could they not when there were copious amounts of candy to be consumed? That's part of the fun of making gingerbread houses, isn't it?

There is so much to share but it will have to wait because there are so many things to do right now--get the girls fed, bathed and put to bed, unpack, clean up, and so on. We took the scenic routes home and it took close to six hours (plus an additional thirty minutes for a lunch pit stop) to get home. I'm happy to report this may have been the Bean's best road trip EVER. :o)

I'll share more tomorrow. For such a short weekend, we sure packed it in!

*****************************

Fisbee Watch

Friday morning found Fisbee just hanging around.

It didn't seem to bother him in the least to have all the blood rushing to his head.

Saturday we weren't here, but Pop caught him chillin' in Lil's stocking (I'll have to post the photo he texted me).

And then, when we arrived home this evening, we found the little stinker palling around with the reindeer. I suppose the two of them are good friends, hailing from the same place and all. ;o)

Now, the question is, where will Mr. Fisb show up tomorrow...

***********************
Weekend Sparklies:

1. A lovely trip into town. There's nothing like traveling to the 'burg on a non-home game weekend. (Let's not talk about that travesty of a game, shall we? Where was my team? Did they stay put in the 'burg and send some lookalikes to play for them? UGH!)
2. Having such a long visit with GG and Bill. We typically only get to visit for a couple of hours before we have to race off. But, since we were staying with them, we had a much longer visit.
3. Making my first gingerbread house. Yes, my name is Rachael, I'm 35, and I only just created my first gingerbread house. And it was FUN!
4. Visiting with Uncle Glen. He was in town for a robotics something or other down in the extreme western part of the state. Instead of driving all the way back to Richmond, he stayed with GG and Bill and drove home this morning. Since he didn't make to GG's before 8:30 or so, that's probably a good thing.
5. A wonderful, soothing trip home. I truly do adore the back roads. You can really get the feel for an area when you drive them. Everyone has either put out, or were working on their Christmas decorations and it was delightful.
6. A clean house when we got home. I'm so glad I cleaned it before we left.
7. Sleeping in my own bed tonight. Visiting is wonderful, but really, there's nothing like your own bed. Ahhhhh.

No milestones.

*****ETA*****
Holy bejeebers! Christina, the rumor was true! We're headed to the Sugar Bowl!! Oh my sweet goodness me!!! I'm absolutely STUNNED!!!

Advent

2011-12-01T18:11:00.001-05:00

The ornament I ordered for Hannah's tree arrived yesterday. I saw this lovely lady as I perused Pottery Barn's site the other day and determined she was perfect and needed to come live on my sparkly Monkey's tree. I think she is a lovely addition. Just looking at Hannah's tree makes me smile. How could I not when there is so much love and sparkle there?

On a sort of related/unrelated note, I was talking with Jess today, and I was once again reminded that never have two sisters been more different. I embrace Christmas and the decorating and baking and chaos open-armed. Jessie? Well, I think saying she's a little "bah humbug" wouldn't be putting it too mildly.

And, lest you think I'm insulting my sister, I assure you she agrees with this wholeheartedly. In fact, she even posted about it on her blog the other day. I love everything about the holiday season and Jess would prefer it come and go in the least messy/stressful way possible.

So, this year, she wants to try to hold off on putting up the tree until Christmas Eve. She says it's to better appreciate and focus on the season of Advent, but I secretly (or maybe not so secretly since I actually said this to her) think it's so she doesn't have to worry about decorating until the 24th. :oP

You see, for my family, Advent is a time of anticipation and excitement as we await Jesus' birth. For us (okay, okay, for me), I think having the house decorated heightens that anticipation. We do a number of activities daily to remind us we are drawing nearer to His arrival.

First, we have this little Advent Calendar. I've had this since 2003 and just love it. I picked it up for a song at a 75% off after-Christmas sale at a little boutique in Hilton Village. Each day Lil and Ellie (will) take turns putting an item in the pockets below. Right now, Ellie mostly enjoys pulling all the items off and throwing them on the ground...oy.

In addition to our Advent wreath and candles we light at dinner each night, we have the purple and rose of Advent in this little chain. Each day Lil removes a link on the left and finds a fun/thoughtful activity to do for that day to help her be mindful of God and his presence in all our lives. Yesterday's was to ask a grown-up to make popcorn for the family. We not only made popcorn, but turned it into a family evening snuggled under fuzzy blankets on the couch with the fire going while we watched the "Grinch". Tonight she is to look at the wonder of the night sky and thank God for the wonderful world in which we live. I simply love this little chain.

We also have daily devotionals we read. I have a children's devotional I read with Lil in the morning and then a family one we do at dinner. I start my day with a devotional reading as well.

I have a girlfriend who has this book and I would love to add it to our collection. There are 24 books inside telling the Christmas story and you read one each day. I think that would be a wonderful way to end the day.

So, yes, while I may be fixated on finding the perfect gift and decorating my home for the holidays, I'm firmly focused on the reason for the season.

(And, speaking of obsessing, could you all give me a hand? I have found this fabulous wreath on Pinterest, and now need to know where to find the mesh. While I may make cards, I've only recently begun delving into the world that is all things crafty and I have no clue. Help!! I have all the fun little touches, but I haven't the first clue about the mesh. Eek!)

And now, it's time for:

Fisbee Watch

We were a little nonplussed to find Mr. Man in our bowl of number fives this morning. Not only was he camping out in them, he had obviously had quite the snack as evidenced by the wrappers scattered around him.

He and the reindeer apparently bonded over the midnight treat.

He couldn't even be bothered to wipe his face clean. Lil chastised him for that, for eating the number fives, and for not cleaning up after himself.

See? He just left wrappers lying around everywhere and was even caught holding one!

Christina, I've pinned loads of ideas here if it helps. And, you can check out what Buddy is up to over here.

**************************

Today's Sparklies:

1. Finding all sorts of fun, funky and whimsical pieces for the wreath I want to make. I found a number of fun things at the 'Jay, and then, Pier1 has such fun red and green stuff this year I couldn't resist picking up a couple of things there. Now, if I can find the mesh, I'm golden! :o)

2. Walking out and about with the Bean. She is a hoot as she goes toddling along the sidewalks. I love watching folks' faces as they watch her--it brings the biggest grin to my face.

3. Lil's hair is finally long enough to do two braids on the sides. I'll have to get photos.

4. My SU! order arrived so I can begin working on Christmas cards. Woo hoo!

5. The sun pouring in through the front storm door. It's cool outside so I don't find the sun objectionable in least. In fact, it's warming up my house which was a brisk 64 degrees at lunch time. Oh my.

No milestones.

Where's Fisbee?

2011-11-30T18:38:00.001-05:00

I think maybe Fisbee was just settling in the past couple of years because this year he seems quite comfortable in our home.

A couple days ago we found him driving Brien's race car!

Yesterday he got into the markers and began writing things. Lil thinks his handwriting is pretty good for an elf.

And, don't even get me started about the mischief he got into last night! It seems Fisb got Lil's camera and began snapping photos! What are we going to do with him? Where oh where is the sweet little elf who sat quietly upon the shelf silently watching the goings on around him? I'm sure Mr. Fisbee is sure to have many more adventures as Christmas draws near. And, you can be sure I'll be sharing. :o)

For those of you who have elves visiting, what are some of the things they have been up to this year, and do tell what they did last year. I say we help one another out, what do you think?

(Oh, and yes, Lil has been thoroughly enjoying this--as have Jori's girls.)

*****************************
Today's Sparklies:

1. I found another hairstyle for Beanie:

If I use a pony holder, it stands straight up. But, with a barrette, it lays flat. I can't believe how old she's looking here!
2. I had a lovely visit with my friend Christy and her little guy this morning.
3. Lily's Advent paper chain today was to make popcorn and eat it as a family. That combined with "The Grinch" sounds like a wonderful evening. :o)
4. We've been eating in the dining room and I'm really enjoying it.
5. More time with family, less time wasting time on the internet. Yay!

No milestones.

The House is Decorated--For You, Liss!

2011-11-29T09:55:00.100-05:00

Obviously a view from the bridge.

I sat and breathed a sigh of relief yesterday when I finished the mantle because it meant the house was pretty much decorated for the season. Woo hoo!! (Okay, okay, except for the dining room tree, but I'm still awaiting the arrival of a couple of ornaments.)

I don't know what it is, but there is something so crisp and clean looking even with all the stuff out and about.

Because we added the entertainment area/bookshelves this summer, we had to rearrange the way we typically organize the furniture in the living room. Previously, the black chair stayed in its home and we moved the big cushy chair from the corner where the tree is, to the opposite side of the TV.

This year, both chairs are where the couch was, and the couch is where the loveseat was.

Meanwhile, the loveseat is now in the kitchen. As I wrote yesterday, it works. :o)

(I'm not sure why, but the majority of my photos from yesterday are off-kilter a bit. Sorry 'bout that.)

The bookshelves are filled with all sorts of Christmas-y goodness.

I left Hannah's shelf and added the two little smokers and that little cross stitch to it.

Below it are the snowmen. I had to reorganize my snowpeople as well because of the change in furniture situation. I still grin every time I see Hannah's fancy milk container snowlady. :o)

Three of the snowmen are tea light holders, but I can't light them on the shelf like that. Instead, I'm using LED tea lights. I found them for a song at Costco and snapped them up. I'm so glad I did!

My gorgeous Willow Tree nativity. That's my spray painted star there in the background. I tucked two LED votives behind the star and it looks lovely lit up at night. :o)

I put all the sparkly snowfolk over on the sideboard.

Just another view of my tree. I used to think I would never have a fake tree. I loved live (or formerly live) trees too much. I loved the smell and the 10,000+ lights I could string on them and everything about them. I never minded the dropped needles (they made my vacuum smell SO good) or the watering. Okay, maybe I did mind the watering a bit... But still, I loved "real" trees.

Then, last year, we decided with Bean in the house this was the best choice. It was prelit and steady on it's feet. I could manage an artificial tree for a couple years, couldn't I? Well, I'm thinking I'm a convert who won't be going back. This bad boy went up in 3 minutes flat. We brought the pieces in, B snapped 'em together and we plugged her in. No fuss, no muss, and a pretty tree to boot.

So, I mentioned Ellie didn't really use the hangers, right?

She draped and tucked in, but didn't hook anything on the tree.

Here's another shot of her ornament hanging collection.

Here's Lil's gingerbread girl.

This is my new snowman for the year. I know it's hard to see, but he's all sparkly and wonderful. :o)

I added red ornaments to my hurricane up there and I'm going to put a red and white striped ribbon on the lantern when the ribbon actually arrives.

I always love going into craft stores this time of year because they smell so yummy from the cinnamon pine cones. Since I have no evergreen smell in my house these days, I decided I should have some yummy pine cones--which I got on BIG sale from JoAnn along with the basket holding them.

I wasn't sure where I was going to put my snowman card holder. He seems to be working out fine right there for the time being. We'll see what happens as he becomes more filled. He's rather Beanie height, you see...

The wall hanging was a birthday gift from my dear friend, Julie. We had to hang him low because there is a button you can push that makes the snowflakes light up, and well, the girls like to be the ones to push that button.

B added to this little collection this year. He found a cute little guy in the One Spot at the 'Jay and brought it home. :o)

I swear to you, I had no idea I had this snowman thing until around 5 years ago. How could I not have noticed I had a collection of them?!? :shakes head:

Hannah's sparkly tree. It was sparkling so beautifully this morning I couldn't resist snapping a couple quick photos.

Thank you, once more, to all of you who sent in ornaments. I smile every year when I get them out and hang them on Hannah's tree. They are all perfect and wonderful an it means the world to me you all thought enough of us to send an ornament that reminded you of our girl.

I have to chuckle because the tree can be a bit, um, much when compared to the family tree. This one sparkles and glitters and glimmers and shines with all the tackiness and joy that is a five year old girl. The red angel on top flashes on and off.

Now, why the chuckling? This is the tree that can be seen through the sidelight, NOT the living room tree, lol. :o) That angel sits up there and flashes on and off, on and off and that's what people see as they drive by. Ha!

How precious is this little guy? Amy sent this for Hannah's tree this year. The fluff. The sparkles. The overall cuteness of it. They make me want to squee. :o)

Its fluffy little rump. See, I told you he made it, Amy. :o)

Dani brought this star from Germany. It too is a lovely addition to the sparkly tree.

I found these ornaments for cheap when I was out trying to find ornaments for the mantle. I liked the colors and sparkles on them, and they were only $2. How could I resist?

The smell good pine cones are distributed throughout the house. I love walking by and catching a whiff. Mm.

Our Advent wreath and candles sit on the dining room table.

The Hokie tree. Lil set it up and decorated it herself.

The mantle ornaments. I found these guys four for a dollar at the 'Jay as well. Have I mentioned I have a real problem with wanting to purchase everything sparkly anymore? Before Han I wasn't much into the glitz and glint. Now, I can't get enough of it. I saw these guys and thought they would be perfect. I was right. They are. ;o)

Can you spot the photographer in the photo? :oP

Our ever changing seasonal piece. Lil decorated this all by herself as well.

Do you see Georgie-boy down there? I love looking off the bridge at night and seeing the downstairs all lit up and gorgeous.

And, finally, the girls' ornament for the year. Isn't it ugly in a cute sort of way? Since I won't be letting either of them take the Uncle Richard mushroom when they leave home, they needed mushrooms of their own so they could always remember the ugly mushroom from their childhood. :oP

So, we're all decked out and ready to be merry. Now to work on the cards and candy...

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Today's Sparklies:

1. I got a text from Jori asking if my girls would like to do a daily elf report with her girls where they would share photos of what their elves got into the night before. I thought it was brilliant, snapped a quick pic of the Fibmeister and sent it on (he got into the makers last night--he has pretty neat handwriting for an elf). Buddy (the Jeps elf) tried to go ice skating on a metal cake stand. Oops! Lil is going to LOVE this!
2. Speaking of loving, she is loving Fisbee more than ever this year. So far I've been pretty good about not forgetting him. We'll see what happens as mid-December rolls around...
3. All the Christmas decor up and the tubs and boxes put away. I can sit and admire and enjoy without feeling stressed from the clutter. Whew.
4. Tacos for dinner. I love easy dinner nights.
5. It got cool again--finally!
6. Sparkles galore! My entire house seems to be glitterific. ;o)

No milestones.

Trimming the Tree(s)

2011-11-28T15:54:00.000-05:00

We set the trees up Friday evening to give the kitty boy a day to adjust to them being in the house before we bedecked them with all sorts of sparkly, dangly goodies to be played with.

I set out all of my tabletop decorations--"activities" (Lil speak for nativities), snowmen, candles, etc.--including the girls' nativity. Ellie fell in love. She comes downstairs and races over to push the angel on top to make the star light up and "Away in the Manger" play. And then she presses it again. And again. And...again. I'm getting tired of "Away in the Manger". ;o)

She also adores the baby Jesus. She picks him up, kisses him and says, "Baby Jeeeus". Close, right?

We got a late start trimming the tree Saturday. The Hokies had a game to play before we could begin. My house was a wreck of gargantuan proportions with boxes, bins and tubs everywhere, and Bitty was about to come out of her skin with excitement. I let her set up and decorate the Hokie tree all by herself and managed to sort of tide her over until after the game.

Dolled up in their pj's, the girls got to open their gifts from Amy and then start to put the ornaments on the tree.

Ellie couldn't get the paper off so she started to use her teeth. Gee, wonder where she gets that...?

I don't think the paper tasted so great. ;o)

Lily got a sweet little gingerbread girl,

and Ellie a fun sparkly snowman.

And, it was time to decorate. I love sorting through my tins and treasures, finding well loved and beloved ornaments. When we left home, Mom sat with Jessie and me and we divvied up the ornaments. I got the crystal heart, Jess the bell. I got the mushroom (wait until you see the ornaments I picked up this year for the girls! They are simply awful. ;oP) J got the turnip--I think. It was a turnip, right, Jessie?

There are the silk Chinese ladies and the Nutcracker collection. There are the treasures that were mine alone--my little girl with the bell that Papa gave me, the brass girl with pigtails like mine were and Ellie's are, and so many more. There were all of Hannah's ornaments, and those that were given to us by Grandma.

Lil loved watching me get them out and add hangers to them, ready for her to place carefully on the tree.

How funny is the shadow there to the left of Beanie's right pigtail? Hee hee!

Ellie was fascinated as well. However, this was her first Christmas as a "big girl" so she watched Lil intensely, trying to figure out what to do.

She couldn't quite grasp the concept of taking the hook and hanging it on the tree. She sort of placed them and set them in the tree. All in the same place. Yup.

Miss Bit is an old pro at this point and moved around the tree placing her ornaments here and there, being careful to hang the more delicate ones up where Beanie couldn't reach them.

Of course, being only almost six, she can only reach up so high. There is a visible band about three feet off the ground where you can see the limit of Lil's reaching capabilities. ;o)

Miss Bean was pretty intrigued and really did try her best. We put her to bed and Lil helped finish up the tree.

The Bean's section of the tree.

She clustered them beautifully, didn't she?

Is there anything more precious or wonderful than the family tree with all the homemade ornaments and kids' hanging? I have a "fancy" tree set up in the dining room (I bought a little 3' tree for the Hokies tree year instead of the one in the dining room and put it in the living room this year. I'll post tomorrow) and will decorate it as soon as I get the ornaments. But, this tree is OURS. It's our family and has our history and memories hanging on it. It is truly perfect. :o)

Or, more to the point, it was finally perfect...

...once the angel was...

...placed right on the top. :o)

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Today's Sparklies:

1. I got a super duper deal on ornaments from the 'Jay today. I needed (yes, it was a need, not a want, drat it all!) them for my mantle and thought I was getting ripped off at $18 for the 9 that were in the box, but was willing to just suck it up because, really $2/ornament wasn't that bad a deal, right? Well, tickle me happy when they rang up at $6 for the box. Sweet!
2. All errands are run for the week. Whew! Now I can just sit back and not relax as I work on cards (okay, you got me on that one, that one's fun) and prepare the candy making factory.
3. Christmas movies and Christmas music. My "White Christmas" Pandora station has been playing non-stop today. :o)
4. The arrangement of my living room furniture. We had to swing the loveseat around into the kitchen, and I rather like it. It gives a cozy seating area other than the table and B and the girls sat there while I was cooking last night. I loved it.
5. I know it's silly, but I got a new pressed powder compact today, and it makes me happy, therefore it goes here. ;o)

No milestones.

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ME, the new Mass was interesting. Fr. Pete made us all laugh as we goofed up "And with your spirit" pretty much every single time. It mostly sounded like, "And also with your spirit" throughout our congregation. We're learning it, though, and our parish is able to roll with changes fairly well. :o)

The Pie Buffet and So Much More

2011-11-27T14:52:00.001-05:00

The pie buffet was probably one of the most brilliant ideas I've ever had (and boy have I had some good ones ;oP). Who wouldn't want a pie smorgasbord for their birthday? Look at that spread! I posted the lemon icebox pie recipe over here on FYB for those interested. It's definitely a keeper. :o)

What pie buffet would be complete without the requisite giant bowl of whipped cream? (See that pumpkin pie up there to the left of the bowl? I was so proud because both my pies came out of the oven uncracked. Somewhere along the line something attacked my pie!)

Isn't this the sweetest cherry pie? Yes, it was sweet to eat too. :o)

My first go 'round. We ate dinner, let the food settle and went in for pie. Then, we played Hand and Foot for about an hour or so and I went back for MORE pie. Lordy but it was wonderful. :o)

Ellie wasn't too sure about the whipped cream at first. I think she caught on. ;o)

Lil being an old pro at the whipped cream thing was ready and waiting the minute the mixer stopped whipping. :oP

Because the pie was so good Thursday night, we indulged again Friday morning. "Chockit!!"

We visited with GG and Bill who were staying with Nana and Pop, and then came home and emptied the attic of all my Christmas goodies. We set up all the trees (four of them this year--it's a sickness, truly it is) and left them overnight with nothing else on them so the kitty-boys could get a feel for them being in the house.

You know how there are days when you struggle to find anything to write about and others you have so much to share you can't figure out where to start? Yeah, I'm there right now. So, I've decided to just split it up a bit. Please bear with me.

Look at Fisbee peeking in the sidelight!

Saturday morning we awoke to find Fisbee had reappeared! In fact, Lil came downstairs calling, "Fisbee, where ARE you?" She knows he always returns right after my birthday. :o)

Lil and I hit the Black Saturday (is there such a thing?) sales to finish up our Christmas shopping. Guess what--I'm DONE!!!! :o) Woo hoo! We went to Target and Pier 1 and then JoAnn Fabrics. I made out like a bandit at JoAnn. We found fleece for $2.99/yard and picked up 1.5 yards of two different fabrics for Lil to make a blanket for her sister. While we were there, Lil found a fun fabric she just HAD to have. We left it there since we were shopping for others. That was hard. Once we made it back to the house, I took off with Ellie (and another 25% off total purchase coupon!) and we got that fabric for a blanket for Lil. I'll make the blanket and give it to Bitty from Ellie. :o)

We watched the Hokies whup up on the 'Hoos and decorated the trees and house. I'll post those photos later this week. I had to rearrange quite a bit this year since we got new furniture and got rid of some old standbys.

We have only artificial trees again this year. I used to be bothered by the thought, loving (formerly) live trees like I do. But, having to string lights on one of my outdoor trees (almost everything we pulled out of the attic experienced loss of lights working--the garlands (poor B, there's a story there), the living room tree, Hannah's tree, the outside trees) made me appreciate the simplicity of snapping three pieces of faux tree together and plugging the darn thing in. :oP It's pretty, it's easy, it's rather environmentally friendly in that we aren't cutting down a tree, and it's cost effective if we use it for another year or so.

Since one of my favorite things about the "real" trees is the aroma, I was a bit sad to have to give it up. To quote one Lee Corso, "Not so fast, my friend!" I have a very fragrant wreath hanging on the front door giving off quite the evergreen scent. Yay!

The house isn't quite finished yet--we still have to do Hannah's tree and we have a couple of "candles" for our windows that need replacing--but should be by this evening, meaning posts to come.

We also received a number of wonderful ornaments from friends and I want to share those as well. Amy, the ornament for Hannah's tree is just wonderful--and still fluffy. :o)

I'm going to try to limit my computer time (ha! I ALWAYS say that!) and spend more time with family during this season of anticipation and waiting. I want to work puzzles and play "Bananagrams" with Brien (it was in his stocking two years ago and he's refused to play it with me since he says I always kick his tushy at word games. I say it's only fair since I lose every. single. game. I play since I have the world's worst luck. No, really, I do. I don't mind, though, and still LOVE to play games, but I digress...), I want to work on my Christmas cards and make this time one of fun and joy and anticipation.

All of which means I'm going to try to post daily, but if I don't, there's most likely nothing wrong other than a break form the 'tubes.

I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving (you 'Mericans at any rate) and a wonderful weekend. :o)

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Weekend Sparklies--good grief were there a TON! See above. :o)

1. Brien is off flying kites with Lil. :o)
2. Visiting with family--as much of it as we could at any rate.
3. Being able to just sit and enjoy what I've done around the house so far.
4. We made it to church even if we were running more than an hour behind. Oops! The girls typically awaken me at 7:00, so who needs to set an alarm? Yeah, notsomuch this morning. Gah!
5. Finding a decent room fragrance. My all-time favorite was "Cranberry Citrus" from Pier1, and for whatever reason, they discontinued it. The "Apple Crisp" and "Winterberry" aren't too bad. I liked "Spiced Cranberry" from last year, but they got rid of it as well. What is wrong with them getting rid of all the flavors I like?!? *harumph*
6. We have been two months now without the heat or a/c. The days are warm, the nights are cold-ish, and it's been lovely. Although, I wouldn't complain about it getting a bit colder now that Christmas will soon be here.
7. Christmas music and movies! Let the glut begin!!!
8. Finishing my Christmas shopping. WOOOOOO HOOOOOOOOO!!

Milestones.
Even though we've done it before, it's always tough to have a holiday without our girl. She should be here and it's wrong not to have her with us. :o(

Dining Room Before and After

2011-11-24T18:52:00.000-05:00

We had a lovely Thanksgiving which I'll get to in a moment. But, first, I wanted to share my dining room. I know I've said it before, but it's utterly amazing what can be accomplished with a little paint and time. Here is the room before.

And, here's the after. Okay, some paint and time, and a bit of decluttering...;o) This photo is a bit more accurate on the green color than the photo above. (No, I'm not a huge fan of the chandelier, but little bits at a time, right?)

Another before.

And, another after. I'm so pleased with how well it all turned out.

We had dinner around 5:00 this evening, and I'm currently letting food settle so I can indulge in my pie buffet. What a brilliant idea, if I do say so myself. ;o)

I was telling Lissie I don't get my china, silver and stemware out nearly enough. It is so beautiful and it makes the table look so lovely.

I love all the little details in the serving pieces.

My china is "Brookhollow" by Noritake. The sterling is "Buttercup" by Gorham, and the stemware is "Monroe Gold" by Lennox. I choose my patterns when I was still a teenager and Mom began giving me pieces for my birthday and Christmas. When Brien and I married, Grammy and GF finished filling in my sterling for me as a wedding gift. Grammy included a guide on how to care for my silver. Every time I use it I think of them and smile. :o)

Beanie thought she was big stuff because she got to sit at the table with the big folks (can you see her little booster off to the left there?). It was just the four of us and Mom and Paul, and it was lovely. Truly. We had turkey, stuffing, mashed chetties, gravy, Russel Sprouts a la Hannah, cranberry relish, green bean casserole and olives. Mom provided a lovely red wine to accompany it.

We will be having pie soon--not nearly soon enough for Lil, though. ;o) We have pecan, cherry, hot fudge, pumpkin and lemon ice box pies. I can't wait!! :o)

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-23T19:56:00.000-05:00

I think this just about sums it up. I hope your day is filled with love, peace, comfort, joy, good food and even better company.

Happy Thanksgiving, Friends!

Are You KIDDING Me?!?

2011-11-22T17:44:00.002-05:00

I just got a phone call from Jana (Sadie's mom). We went bowling with them, Alicia and her family, and another family Friday evening. Jana was calling to let me know that the other little girl we were with has lice! GAH!!

I don't wanna. :o(

I promptly checked out both Ellie (a quick thing to do with her and her thin baby hair) and Lil and both appear clear. However, I'm taking NO chances and having B stop by the drug store for some RID on the way home. Treatment shall be had by all. :oS

In other news, the frames are done, and when the light is lovely tomorrow I shall take photos and post them. :o)

Lil had her Kindergarten program today and it was as delightful as such programs can be. So many sweet kids, so much fun had by all. I have photos, but, alas, don't have time to go through them right now. I have to finish the cheesy potato soup that's for dinner. I have bacon to fry and cheese to shred.

I'll catch up tomorrow. I promise. :o)

*****ETA*****
Potato soup recipe found here on FYB. :o)

*****ETA 2*****
Lee, thanks for the tip.

As of 7:30 this evening I can confirm Bitty and Beanie are both louse and nit-free--thank you, Lord! I saw nothing on either of them, treated Bitty, then tortured her by going through her head with a fine toothed comb. We're golden. Thank you thank you thank you.

Dining Room Update

2011-11-21T19:49:00.000-05:00

I only got the spackling done today. It seems Ellie was out to thwart me at every turn. She somehow made it into the cats' bathroom this morning and "helped" me clean the litter box. Oh dear lord. Much sanitizing had to be done and the bathroom cleaned. While I was doing that, she was pulling books off shelves and relieving them of their dust jackets.

We ran by Lowe's, PetSmart and the grocery and then I came home to clean some more. And yet, somehow, all that effort still wasn't enough. May I just quit? :oS

The frames are looking wonderful. There is one more that needs to be put up, right there in that empty space. However, that one is a bit tricky since it will "wrap" around the corner. B's off to cut it right now. I'm hoping I can convince him he needs to do the caulking. ;o)

Off to clean the kitchen for the fourth...no, wait, is it the fifth?...time today. :oP

A Quickie Update

2011-11-20T17:04:00.001-05:00

I did in fact get into the dining room today. Here's a before (complete with all the crap that is still on the table that needs to find a new home... Oh, and all the felt scraps from Brien's puzzle table making.).

And, after. I know the lighting isn't super wonderful here, but I lost it as the afternoon progressed. I wanted to get a couple quick pix before we put the picture frames up--you can see one there between the windows on the carpet.

Before again. I didn't get started until after two. I did it in about two hours or so. It took two coats of the Antique White to cover the green.

After. I'm SO pleased!

I'm a fast painter, and a neat painter when it comes to edging, cutting in and keeping paint off the floors and anywhere else it isn't supposed to be.

Too bad the same can't be said for me. ;oP

My painting pants are much like my drop cloth, a wonderful time capsule of all the different colors I've used in my two houses.

Yeah, the right side was particularly bad today.

And, the rest of the mess that has invaded my house. Home improvement projects do that, though, don't they?

Oh, and before I forget, I found this pin over on Pinterest and decided I needed a star for my nativity. I found a cheapy cardboard one at JoAnn's for a buck or so and hit it with the Krylon Glitter Blast. I liked the gold, what can I say?

And, since I was already covered in paint from head to toe, I decided to just bite the bullet and do this as well. My arms now sparkle. ;o)

And to think we're supposed to be eating here on Thursday. Doh!

Here's the puzzle table. B says it's finished. Too bad I won't get a chance to play with it until the middle of the week.

B is going to put these bad boys up tonight and I'm going behind with the caulk and spackle and will touch them up with the Antique White tomorrow. AND, I might be able to do something with that mess on the table too...

Amy, you are quite right, a birthday divisible by 5 will be had on Turkey Day. :o) Mom told me she would handle much of the cooking so I didn't have to do it all on my day. She's a good mama like that. And, I was absolutely serious about having a pie buffet for my birthday instead of a cake. I'm gonna whip up a HUGE bowl of whipped cream and have a slice of everything we have to offer! :oP

I have loads of sparklies, but they're gonna have to hang out in my head since I have to release Bean from jail...er...her crib. How else was I to keep her from "helping" with the painting??

Just the Bean

2011-11-19T20:02:00.000-05:00

She really enjoyed the salad we had last week. I dress it with balsamic vinegar and olive oil. Olive oil is good for the skin and hair, right?

This evening she pulled out the book basket, sat down and thoroughly enjoyed every book in the basket.

Every. Single. Book.

And, as a couple of you noted from the video, she does indeed toss one book aside and then pick up another. You should see the pile that accumulates next to her rocking chair.

I've been here, just a bit busy. I'm taking a break from my weekend computer hiatus to let you know all is well. B almost has the puzzle table together. I'll post photos, I promise. I've still got to get the dining room painted (I should be able to knock it out fairly quickly), and then, there's the various and sundry cleaning and planning that goes into Thanksgiving (followed in very rapid succession by my annual day-after-Thanksgiving-full-home-holiday-decorating--I can't wait!).

For now, though, something a little low-key. Just the Bean. :o)

LOOOOOOONG Overdue Natural Bridge

2011-11-16T18:42:00.000-05:00

Brien finally got these photos into the "shared folder" for me so I could post them. Thank you, Honey!

So, sometime back at the dawn of time (okay, the beginning of July) when we headed to the 'burg for the July Fourth weekend, we traveled down Rt. 11 and decided to pull of at Natural Bridge and take in the sights.

And, boy howdy were there sights to see! There's a wax museum, dinosaurs, zoo, and oh so much more! It is a tourist haven I tell ya! We simply did the "bridge" itself (and, in reality, it is a bridge as Rt. 11 crosses it) and visited the butterfly sanctuary inside. Oh, and of course, we did the "souvenir" shop as well.

How does Lil measure up?

Inside with the butterflies. They were rather tame (if you can say such a thing about butterflies) and would sit rather contentedly perched on you.

It was fascinating to see all the chrysalises and the variety of shapes, sizes and colors they came in.

Then, we headed out the door and down the trail to the bridge.

It was steamy hot, y'all. It's rather difficult to remember just how hot and muggy July can be when you are in the midst of the gorgeousness that is fall.

Although you can't see it, Rt. 11 runs right along the top there. Lil was absolutely terrified (almost petrified, really) to go under the bridge, for fear it would fall on her.

The area has been suffering a drought, so the creek was quite low.

Under the bridge, there were these dark areas. They say this one is a bear. Can you see it?

I saw an upside down Virginia in this one.

Looking back the other way.

We trekked on to the Indian "village"--really just a couple of huts and two or so interpreters (boy I'm spoiled living by Jamestown!)--and Lil was fascinated. So was B. Ellie? Notsomuch. We had to hike back to the car before I wanted because she was so knackered. :o(

It's amazing how much I remember about the day. ;o)

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Today's Sparklies:

1. I stayed on top of Ellie's cluttery mess today. Yay!
2. The golden leaves on the trees in our backyard.
3. I got the recycling out on time today--woo hoo!
4. Meenions. Why do I enjoy "Despicable Me" so much?
5. Brilliant ideas to be had over on Pinterest.

No milestones.

Ellie Reads

2011-11-15T15:37:00.000-05:00

I apologize for the shakiness of the video. I wasn't planning on filming, and then, there the Bean was, reading her little heart out. I was lying in a rather precarious position (for filming at any rate) on the floor, unable to support my filming hand. Oh well. You can still get the idea. (She's reading Blue Hat, Green Hat first and then Hippos Go Beserk. We love us some Sandra Boyton around here. :o) As for her hair, while I prefer it back in pigs, there are some mornings I just don't feel up to wrestling the Elligator to put them in.)

Ellie loves books, and she loves coloring. That's about it. Oh, wait, she loves destroying the house too. Can't forget that one. ;o)

Meanwhile, Miss Bitty is my big helper who, for the most part, helps clean up after her sister rather ungrudgingly. I'm grateful for that help, I really am.

Lil is also beginning to blossom on the reading front. I forgot how much I love watching those mysterious symbols become words right in front of their eyes. Lil came to us to ask us to read something for her the other day. We turned it around on her and asked her to read it to us--and she could! I'm so excited for her for a whole other world awaits her within the pages of books. :o)

We'll have a conference with her teacher Friday and will get more of an update then. I do know I've been a bit disappointed with the quality of some of the work she's been bringing home. Lily is an excellent color-er and cutter, yet the book she brought home yesterday appeared sloppily cut and very poorly colored. I KNOW it was not her best work. I asked her why she rushed and she said it was so she didn't have to do it during choice time. I questioned further and discovered she had been so busy chatting she hadn't been getting her work finished so she rushed through to get it done. Ah. That makes sense.

I told Lil I expect her to do her best on all her assignments--even if the teacher doesn't mind. I want her to challenge herself to do her best. I'm not trying to be a helicopter parent, instead I'm striving for rigor. Even if the assignment is a crap, busywork assignment (not saying any of hers are, just giving an example here), you should still take pride in your work and put forth your best effort. I held both my second and fifth graders to this standard, and I don't think it's too early to start Lil along that path as well.
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Today's Sparklies:

1. I didn't accomplish nearly as much today, but I still got quite a bit done. Yay!
2. A rather decent conclusion to a bit of family trouble.
3. B cut all the base pieces for the puzzle table last night. :o)
4. Another stunning November day. I have yet to turn on our heat, and we've been without A/C since last month. I wonder how long we can forgo the heat...
5. Did I mention Lil is to be an angel in the Christmas pageant? Ah, the family tradition of being an "angel" continues. ;o) Have I mentioned I was an angel every year from the time I was 8 until I left for college. I could do this nearly as well as Linus.

No milestones.

Ruminations

2011-11-14T15:32:00.000-05:00

First off, what a funny word "ruminations" is. I suppose I could find out for certain if I looked it up, but I think it must have to do with cows chewing their cud (rumen) and the look of intense thought that must be on their bovine faces as they do so.

Whatever the reason, the word means the act of pondering, and I've been giving this topic some deep thought (NOT what the word means, you silly people). Do you think some folks are born inherently positive and some negative?

When I think of the people I know--family, friends, bloggers, etc.--it comes to mind that some are more likely to see that glass up there as half full while others will find it half empty. Cliched? You betcha. But I think it's true.

I'm an inherently happy, positive person--a real Pollyanna. This Polly tries to see the bright side in every situation (often irritating the daylights out of those who really don't give a crap and couldn't care less and only want me to sympathize and listen, not spout off at the mouth), and generally only sees the good in folks. I'm always looking for the positive in any situation (although Hannah's death was sure as shootin' a struggle for me) and forget that bad guys and trolls really do exist.

Yes, I had some bad moments after Hannah died, but still found some good. I found there were so many strangers out there who were willing to reach out to a broken and grieving woman and her family it was astounding. I found Hannah's message of living life to the fullest and most sparkly, and always finding the wonder in any situation was passed on to so many. I challenged myself to find that wonder and began my sparklies list. Even on my worst days I was (and still am) able to find some good in my life.

For me, Hannah's death was a defining moment, but it didn't define me. Does that make sense? I had some bad stuff in my childhood (who doesn't?), not the least of which was knowing my father was terminally ill and could die at any time. Yes, that's right, I was told from the time I was little my Papa wasn't supposed to live past 30--boy did he show them!--and that I was lucky to still have him with me.

Am I angry over that? No. It was another defining moment. From him and his experience, I learned to appreciate every moment I am given. I learned that sometimes you just have to push yourself--even if you don't want to.

I assure you, I could go on and on here, but I have more words fighting to pour forth. The thing is, in spite of being this eternal optimist, I'm also a realist. I take responsibility for my actions. I may not like it, I may be embarrassed when I screw up, but I know it's on me. I don't try to shift the blame. Case in point? I know the reason I'm a much bigger girl now than I was 12 years ago is because I'm eating more and moving less. That's MY doing, not anyone else's. No one forced me to eat all those foods. No one forced me to sit on my duff instead of getting moving. Could I say it was losing Hannah and my grief? I suppose. But, ultimately, it was my choices that led me to this point.

All of which brings me back to the beginning. I know some folks that just seem so unhappy. They are so miserable and I don't know why. They are negative Nellies and I feel so rotten for them, but there is nothing I can do to change that.

So, the question is, are we born that way? Are we born with a sunny outlook and disposition, or is it a learned behavior somewhere along the way? I don't know. As far back as I can remember, I've been a big fat worrier (lordy mercy do I worry--about everything, even when I have absolutely no control over the situation), but I'm still a stinkin' Pollyanna. It doesn't make sense...does it?

Is there a way to help those who have a hard time seeing the sunny side of life (you can thank me for that little ear worm later) see it? I don't know. I wish I had the answers. As a fixer, I just want to make them all better--part of my Polly complex, I think.
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Today's Sparklies:

1. The dump, the thrift store and grocery shopping done.
2. Vacuuming done.
3. China cabinet emptied in preparation for the goings on in the dining room.
4. Kitchen cleaned. Four times.
5. Pantry cleaned out and organized. BTW, I thought I would share this because it was such a smart idea. Over on Pinterest, someone had pinned the idea of using soft drink containers in your pantry to organize canned goods. Now why didn't I think of that?!? Of course, they had made theirs all beautiful by covering the ugly soda boxes, and I haven't gotten around to that just yet... But, it has freed up quite a bit of space in my pantry. :o)
6. 70+ degrees today. It's wonderful out there. Tomorrow is supposed to be more of the same temp-wise, but with rain instead of this beautiful sun. Lil will be booted out of doors the minute she gets through the door. ;o)

No milestones.

Feeling Rather Hectic

2011-11-13T20:28:00.000-05:00

I'm feeling rushed and frantic and hectic and I'm not sure why. Yes, my to do list is a mile long and 1/2 a mile wide, but I think it may be more than that. I've been in rush-rush-rush mode most of the afternoon and into the evening, and once I get in that groove, it's hard for me to get back out of it. I feel so frenetic that I think if I spoke I would sound like this.

In an effort to sloooooooooow myself down, I'm sitting and chilling (or trying to at any rate) and blogging.

Let's begin with Nana's birthday cake, shall we? Isn't it lovely?

I be darned if it didn't turn out beautifully and taste sinful as all get out. That is one decadent cake! The one flaw in the cake was the crust. As you can see, the corners are a bit, um, thick. But, other than that, it was gooooooood.

Dinner was delightful--Pop grilled the salmon to perfection and the broccoli and mini dumplings were dee-wishous. :o) The company was even more delightful. :o)

And, I avoided a major cake catastrophe. YES!

Okay, so the distraction of posting this isn't working. All I can think about is everything I have to do, so here goes:

clean the kitchn
cut up the ripe pineapple
pack Brien's lunch
pack Lil's lunch
fold laundry--one in wash and another in the dryer
order Christmas presents

That's just tonight. I'm in home improvement mode once again and B and I have plans for the rest of the week as well:

trip to the dump
trip to the thrift store (to donate, NOT pick up)
grocery store
trip to Costco and Michael's (possibly Michael's, not sure though)
spray paint ugly living room lamp (it's an experiment, we'll see what happens)
paint below the chair rail in the dining room (finally getting in there--B was burnt out after the bathroom and finishing his degree, what can I say?)
caulk, spackle, and paint the new picture framing B is putting up in the dining room
clean out pantry (the bottom of my pantry is a mess!)
regular daily chores

I think that's it...I think. I'll do the dump, thrift store and groceries tomorrow morning and then the painting tomorrow during nap. I should be able to knock it out fairly quickly as there's not that much to do. I don't have that much to prep and I want to have the white on before B installs the picture frames. Then, since I'll have to touch up anyhow, I can do that after I do the finish work on the frames. That part probably won't get done before the weekend, though, since B is going to the 'burg Thursday night and we have conferences Friday. Ulp. I never enjoyed them as the teacher, and I'm finding the thought just as nerve wracking as the parent.

But, I digress.

The idea is to have the dining room finished in time for Thanksgiving. And, speaking of Thanksgiving, Mom and I finalized a couple of things today. My birthday is turkey day this year and I decided instead of a cake, I just want a pie bar/buffet. ;o) In fact, Mom and I thought we should just scrap the turkey, stuffing, mashed chetties, gravy, etc. altogether and just go with the pie bar complete with a great big bowl of whipped cream. Lil put the kabash on that, darn her. :oP

So, we'll have the traditional dinner and then two hours later stuff ourselves senseless on a wide variety of pies. I'm thinking there will be pecan, cherry, hot fudge, and pumpkin at least. Mm.

Mom and Paul will be joining us this year. It's my first year hosting--after 12 years of marriage. Boy I've been sneaky putting off cooking a bird. ;o) Mom and Dad will be hosting GG and Bill (who will be celebrating their ten year? eleven year? Yeah, I think eleven...anniversary on Thanksgiving as well) and I'm hoping we'll be able to visit with them as well.

And, on top of that, I'm starting to get into my holiday planning. I looked over last year's archives yesterday (searching out last year's Christmas cards, for those need to be made soon) and began thinking about Christmas candy and cookies. As I just mentioned, there are cards to be planned, a house to be scoured before the decorating can commence, and so much more.

Throw into that a Bitty who decided to volunteer to be an angel in the Christmas pageant and all the practices we'll be needing to attend, and I'm beginning to feel a bit...GAH!

So, I'm taking my own advice and taking it one day at a time. I'll make up a plan for the deep cleaning and know everything else will simply fall into place. It always does. And, let's not forget, I utterly adore this time of year. Pinterest is full of new and exciting decorating ideas and I'm getting excited on top of the frenzied feeling.

In fact, now that I've typed this all out, I'm feeling less harried. Whew. What doesn't get done today will be waiting for me tomorrow. ;o)
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Weekend Sparklies:

1. HOORAY!! I can park in the garage again! Thanks, Honey, for helping me get it done.
2. B cleaned out his workshop and is working on making a puzzle table (complete with drawers for holding puzzle pieces) so we can break out the jigsaw puzzles once more. We hope to have it done by next week so we can work on puzzles while Lissie is here. :o)
3. Although it made me a bit frantic (but in a good way, I swear it!), I'm stoked I have another home improvement project right around the corner.
4. Beanie is just about potty trained for BM's. Brien was home with her when she started fussing and crying and he looked over and found her by the bathroom door with her pants off. He took off her diaper and she plopped herself down on her little potty and did her thing. Yes! (P.S. Pear juice and oatmeal are VERY good things.)
5. We had a great Religious Ed class today about the liturgical calendar. Who knew that could be exciting? ;o)
6. Lil got to play for hours with both Alicia and Sadie. In fact, they made it around to all three houses this weekend.
7. Our copy of HP 7.2 arrived Friday.

No milestones.

Happy Birthday, Nana!

2011-11-10T14:27:00.000-05:00

Today is Nana's birthday. I've been working on a cake (Nana, no fair peeking--you'll see it this evening!). Mine doesn't look like that. Or even close. I've followed the recipe meticulously. I always do the first time I make a recipe. I even measured the stinkin' springform pan to make sure it was 9" and not too small or too big.

The flourless cake has so far filled up the entire pan, instead of only going halfway up. I'm hoping it deflates as it cools but I'm not holding my breath. It tasted fantastic, but man...I'm supposed to be able to add a layer of pudding, and then one of whipped cream. Did I mention I'm not holding my breath?? :oS

At least we haven't had a repeat of last year's incident. Of course, I should have suspected something like this might happen, what with the Davis birthday cake curse and all... Jen escaped because she married out of the name. I'm convinced of that. ;o)

Oh well. It's not how it looks it's how it tastes, right??

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I wanted to post a couple of Ellie-isms while I was thinking about it. She's experiencing a language explosion and is parroting a lot of what is said to her. Of recent note and addition:

*No daydoo "No thank you" said very rapidly with wild head shaking. At least she's polite. ;o)
*I godit "I've got it" or "I got it"
*yetzpeese "Yes, please" (I'm such a sucker for a kid with good manners)
*dere it is "there it is"

As always, I KNOW there are more, but these are the ones I have at the moment. :o)

Little Girls

2011-11-08T16:28:00.000-05:00

This is why I love having little girls. :o) Who else would think to doll up a rather mundane rocking horse with a pair of bunny ears?

Little girls are spirited, fun, witty, clever, colorful, whimsical, dramatic (and not always in a good way), whiny, determined, headstrong, creative, fancy. At least, my little girls are. :oP

I adore having little girls. I wouldn't have any idea what to do with a boy. My Grammy and Grapes had all daughters who had all daughters. Nary a boy in the bunch. I grew up in the "all girls club" and it seems as if these girlies are doing the same.

Yes, I wanted boys when I was pregnant with both Lily and Ellie, but you know what? I think it's wonderful for the girls to have sisters. There is nothing in the world like a sister. I have no idea what I would do without mine, and that's a fact.

Would I have loved a little boy? Absolutely. Do I still dream of having a little guy? Yup. But, girls it is. And, heck, with Miss Beanie around, I might as well have a boy she's so busy and into everything. Oh, and did I mention her fearlessness? Nothing frightens her, and in fact, she's intrigued by those things I think are most dangerous to her. If she wants something, she finds some way to get it. Oy.

That said, she's still my little girl. I love saying, "my girls" or "the girls" or, "my girlies". It always brings a smile to my face. :o)

Am I frightened by middle and high school and the teen years? Oh heck yeah I am. I taught fifth grade for three years. I know how 'tween girls are. I was at a middle school, I saw those girls. I worry about the attitudes and the friendships and the drama (oh, lordy mercy, the drama!) and the boys (probably worry about that even more some days). But, those are down the road a-ways.

For now, I have two very sweet girlies who love to decorate and be fancy and put ears on rocking horses. I'll enjoy the present and worry about the future when it gets here. :o)

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Today's Sparklies:

1. My Lil home with me all day. I'm so glad she's in school now, for her days off are that much sweeter. :o)
2. The sounds of Lily and Alicia playing in the backyard.
3. Followed by the sounds of Lily and Alicia and Sadie playing in Sadie's backyard.
4. Portobello burgers for dinner. Divine!
5. Jeans weather. The days are warm and lovely, but with that nip in the air. LOVE it!
6. The smell of the autumn leaves on the ground. What is it about that smell that triggers so many happy memories? Ahhh.
7. Bev offered to have Carlos come and mow. I'm game!

No milestones, just thoughts about how chaotic it would be if there were THREE little girls in my house, one of them rather 'tweenish.