We wish everyone who reads this blog a very Merry and Blessed Christmas!!!!
Friday, December 23, 2011
Merry Christmas!
For the first time in...probably 8 years, we are not sending out Christmas cards. Instead, a Christmas card blog! How unique, right?
We wish everyone who reads this blog a very Merry and Blessed Christmas!!!!
We wish everyone who reads this blog a very Merry and Blessed Christmas!!!!
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Miss M turned 4!
We had our first birthday party for her as well. It worked out so well. First, I have been sick for about 7 weeks (thus, no blogging) so I really did not have the energy to create a party. But, it was time and she deserved it.
I found this amazing deal at a bouncy house venue and set it up there. 16 kids, 2 hours, no mess on my end....AH!!! Now that's a party!
Happy Birthday, Miss M!!!
May your fire and spark for life allow you to grab a hold of God and never let go. It is fun to watch you grow!
Monday, November 14, 2011
Just Because
Saturday, November 12, 2011
GO DUCKS!!!!!!
53 to 30!!!!!!
Oregon crushes Stanford!!!!
Absolutely amazing game! WooHoo!!! So excited!!! Hooray!!!
Can you feel my excitement!?
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Kids!
I find myself laughing at the antics these three have been up to lately. Talk about creativity! They are changing faster then I can keep up with. So much of our adult life seems to remain the same. I'm sure it really doesn't, but in comparison to the kids...WOW! Every day brings on a whole new set of adventures. Fun to watch and grateful to be a part of.
My cuddle bug!
He is always the one that I can grab at a moment's notice and wrap into a tight ball and just hug. Love it!!!! I hope he realizes that I will do this forever (or for as long as he remains smaller then me!)
He is always thinking, and talking!!! I seem to remember having to place him in speech therapy and sensory development when he was little. Hmmm.....maybe that wasn't a good idea! Kidding! This kid LOVES to talk. I mean, really loves to talk. He actually converses better with adults and I'm not surprised. He wants to share what he knows and is always curious as to what is going on around him.
He has taken off with his math skills. While math facts may not be his strong suit, talk about money and give him story problems with coins (such as- if I have 3 dimes, 2 nickels, and 4 pennies, how much do I have?). He answers very quickly and it totally excites both of us that he found something that he enjoys.
Still loves balloons and making balloon animals. Loves to build with legos, tinker toys and anything else that he can grab. He built a windmill the other day.... pretty impressive!
My Krazy K!
He won't admit it, but this kid loves to sing and if I don't get him into acting soon, not sure what we will do. I'm pretty sure that next year he will participate in our church's Christmas musical whether he wants to or not (and he'll end up loving it).
He is our self proclaimed leader of the bunch. Loves making sure that everyone is on task and doing the right thing.
Lately he's been on the hugging kick and I definitely won't refuse. He has so many interests, it's hard to keep up! Loves playing pirates and "army" and always has his trusty stuffed animal buddies nearby. He's like me and squeaks and makes everything bounce (wonder where he got that from?). Really enjoys bike riding and riding his razor. Recently learned to jump of curbs with his bike! I'm thinking elbow pads may need to be added when he's riding.
His reading skills have also taken off. Can't leave out anything anymore if we don't want it read. That has also led to great discussions and a lot of vocabulary building.
Miss M!
We are learning our letters, one at a time!!! While we are not a fan of tracing our letters, we'll do anything else. She loves to color, build puzzles and is getting really really good at counting. But ask her what her favorite thing to do is- dress up and playing with her dolls! She creates the funniest outfits while playing and already likes heels.
I think I need to find her a dance class or gymnastics. Loves to twirl, dance and sing!
We like to make up stories together and read lots of books.
She started Awana this year at church as well as a Friday preschool co-op. Both programs have her memorizing scripture. She is getting really good at it. I should never have doubted her ability. She is coming into her own now and has her own ideas! The silliness has definitely increased with her. I still find it funny that friends think she is quiet....have they not been at our house?
He is always the one that I can grab at a moment's notice and wrap into a tight ball and just hug. Love it!!!! I hope he realizes that I will do this forever (or for as long as he remains smaller then me!)
He is always thinking, and talking!!! I seem to remember having to place him in speech therapy and sensory development when he was little. Hmmm.....maybe that wasn't a good idea! Kidding! This kid LOVES to talk. I mean, really loves to talk. He actually converses better with adults and I'm not surprised. He wants to share what he knows and is always curious as to what is going on around him.
He has taken off with his math skills. While math facts may not be his strong suit, talk about money and give him story problems with coins (such as- if I have 3 dimes, 2 nickels, and 4 pennies, how much do I have?). He answers very quickly and it totally excites both of us that he found something that he enjoys.
Still loves balloons and making balloon animals. Loves to build with legos, tinker toys and anything else that he can grab. He built a windmill the other day.... pretty impressive!
He won't admit it, but this kid loves to sing and if I don't get him into acting soon, not sure what we will do. I'm pretty sure that next year he will participate in our church's Christmas musical whether he wants to or not (and he'll end up loving it).
He is our self proclaimed leader of the bunch. Loves making sure that everyone is on task and doing the right thing.
Lately he's been on the hugging kick and I definitely won't refuse. He has so many interests, it's hard to keep up! Loves playing pirates and "army" and always has his trusty stuffed animal buddies nearby. He's like me and squeaks and makes everything bounce (wonder where he got that from?). Really enjoys bike riding and riding his razor. Recently learned to jump of curbs with his bike! I'm thinking elbow pads may need to be added when he's riding.
His reading skills have also taken off. Can't leave out anything anymore if we don't want it read. That has also led to great discussions and a lot of vocabulary building.
We are learning our letters, one at a time!!! While we are not a fan of tracing our letters, we'll do anything else. She loves to color, build puzzles and is getting really really good at counting. But ask her what her favorite thing to do is- dress up and playing with her dolls! She creates the funniest outfits while playing and already likes heels.
I think I need to find her a dance class or gymnastics. Loves to twirl, dance and sing!
We like to make up stories together and read lots of books.
She started Awana this year at church as well as a Friday preschool co-op. Both programs have her memorizing scripture. She is getting really good at it. I should never have doubted her ability. She is coming into her own now and has her own ideas! The silliness has definitely increased with her. I still find it funny that friends think she is quiet....have they not been at our house?
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Be Still!
Psalm 46:10- Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!
While the first part of this Psalm was ringing (loudly)in my ears all day today, I love the promise that God will be exalted. But it was the first part that has gotten to me today.
My kids are still sick. Ugh, really!? It actually bothered me because it is coming at such a bad time of the month in regards to my work schedule. I am committed to meeting my families each month and I work really hard to get them all on the same schedule, so I can limit my dependance on outside help from my Mom and friends for the kids. So when they are sick, it really catches me off guard in regards to work. Praise God, it really hasn't happened a lot.
So my Mom, lovingly, with a mask on, took in the sick ones for the past 2 days with 1 more day to go. (okay, so she wasn't really wearing a mask, but I bet she thought about it!)
I ran off to my meetings debating all the while- call the doctor, don't call the doctor, call the doctor, don't call the doctor. Many virtual daisies were plucked in the process! I mean, it's a cold...yes it's a cough and a temperature, but everyone has those. Do they reeeaaallly need to be seen. And then the whole antibiotics issue. Anyway........
I called
We went
We actually could only get 1 child in, but the Doctor (seriously, bless her heart) looked at both kids and said...Uh, they both need to be looked at.
We diagnosed....
Pneumonia
Can I receive my Mother of the Year crown now?
Of course, I had to run back to meetings after the appointment, but from that point on, this verse started running a little more loudly through my head.
Be Still
No really...Be Still.
Who is in control? You or Me?
So after my last meeting tonight, I sat in my car and thanked God for all the blessings He just gave our family.
A place for my kids to go (THANK YOU, MOM!)
A great Doctor who really took the time to look at both kids even though she had a busy schedule too
Medicine- even the antibiotics!
A wonderful husband who is actually out buy Lysol as we speak!!! (seriously)
Friends who immediately started praying for our family as soon as I told them the news
The one healthy kid who totally stepped up tonight as we rushed to get some sort of dinner on the table and he got as much ready as he could
Warm Baths, Warm Beds and lots of prayers.
So I need to Be Still....a lot more often.
When I don't, I miss the blessings that even these "annoyances" bring about. They aren't annoyances, just God's subtle (and sometimes coughingly loud) reminders that we need to Be still and know that He is with us.
While the first part of this Psalm was ringing (loudly)in my ears all day today, I love the promise that God will be exalted. But it was the first part that has gotten to me today.
My kids are still sick. Ugh, really!? It actually bothered me because it is coming at such a bad time of the month in regards to my work schedule. I am committed to meeting my families each month and I work really hard to get them all on the same schedule, so I can limit my dependance on outside help from my Mom and friends for the kids. So when they are sick, it really catches me off guard in regards to work. Praise God, it really hasn't happened a lot.
So my Mom, lovingly, with a mask on, took in the sick ones for the past 2 days with 1 more day to go. (okay, so she wasn't really wearing a mask, but I bet she thought about it!)
I ran off to my meetings debating all the while- call the doctor, don't call the doctor, call the doctor, don't call the doctor. Many virtual daisies were plucked in the process! I mean, it's a cold...yes it's a cough and a temperature, but everyone has those. Do they reeeaaallly need to be seen. And then the whole antibiotics issue. Anyway........
I called
We went
We actually could only get 1 child in, but the Doctor (seriously, bless her heart) looked at both kids and said...Uh, they both need to be looked at.
We diagnosed....
Pneumonia
Can I receive my Mother of the Year crown now?
Of course, I had to run back to meetings after the appointment, but from that point on, this verse started running a little more loudly through my head.
Be Still
No really...Be Still.
Who is in control? You or Me?
So after my last meeting tonight, I sat in my car and thanked God for all the blessings He just gave our family.
A place for my kids to go (THANK YOU, MOM!)
A great Doctor who really took the time to look at both kids even though she had a busy schedule too
Medicine- even the antibiotics!
A wonderful husband who is actually out buy Lysol as we speak!!! (seriously)
Friends who immediately started praying for our family as soon as I told them the news
The one healthy kid who totally stepped up tonight as we rushed to get some sort of dinner on the table and he got as much ready as he could
Warm Baths, Warm Beds and lots of prayers.
So I need to Be Still....a lot more often.
When I don't, I miss the blessings that even these "annoyances" bring about. They aren't annoyances, just God's subtle (and sometimes coughingly loud) reminders that we need to Be still and know that He is with us.
Monday, October 17, 2011
Isn't this a little early?
Normally our family gets to November before all the colds and stuff hit our household. Did I miss the memo that the season started earlier this year???
Can I opt out?
2 weeks ago kid #2 started coughing. Nothing else, just coughing. Low and behold the little germ magnet decided to be nice to his brother and sister and share!
Now, he's cute so I will give him grace, but did he have to share?
So now there are 3 kids sitting down stairs (see photo example #1 below) coughing, and I am hiding out upstairs!!!
Can I opt out?
2 weeks ago kid #2 started coughing. Nothing else, just coughing. Low and behold the little germ magnet decided to be nice to his brother and sister and share!
Now, he's cute so I will give him grace, but did he have to share?
So now there are 3 kids sitting down stairs (see photo example #1 below) coughing, and I am hiding out upstairs!!!
Monday, October 3, 2011
Family Day- Complete!
Family of 5. Forever blessed and forever grateful!
You were so very attached to your foster mom. It was very evident that you shared a special bond. I'm so thankful for her and all that she did for you and for us.
I pray for your birth mom as well. I pray that she feels at peace with her decision.
We got to interact and play with you twice during that week. I enjoyed observing your inquisitive nature and the way you studied each and every move we all made.
The great thing about your process- we got you the night before we flew home, instead of the 3 hours before we flew home with your brothers. Totally helped us get to know you and begin the bonding process. I still am in shock though- how could one tiny person take up an entire bed!!!! You laugh about it now, but I still remember holding on for dear life to the side of the bed to keep myself from falling off. we used towels as blankets because we were too afraid to move you or cover you.
3 years today, Miss M!!! Can you believe it? As I type this, you are in the room next to me playing dress up and wandering in and out of my room as I show you pictures from 3 years ago. Of course you say you remember it. Perhaps you do.
Both of our Family Day's are so meaningful to us. It's our birthdays with each of you. While we couldn't be there the day of your actual birth, we were most definitely praying for you and for God's specific plan for all of our lives. This is the day that I can reflect back on our journey to you and remember all the details of the day. I can remember the smells, the facial expressions from those we walked by, what we wore, wearing you on my back, attempting to change you on the plane (which was a lot harder then your brothers...I think the changing area shrank!) driving home and wondering what you thought about in a car seat for the first time, etc. It felt like it happened yesterday.
Monday, September 19, 2011
Family Day
Actually, we got to complete September 19th twice due to flying home, but I'll let that slide. To look back now, I can totally see each of your personalities on that plane ride home.
Things that I learned in such a short amount of time:
To change a diaper on a plane (okay...to change a diaper, period) times two!
Feeding times two! So thankful that there was three of us to handle the two of you!
I heart Korean Air!
K- you love being the center of attention and was quite content to sit with Gramma and the rest of us as long as you were being held, fed, and played with.
C- I still feel bad for your plane ride home. Hopefully the other passengers have long forgotten the trip. However, very thankful to all the women and flight attendants who took the time to help us out. Well...and actually just take you.
I still remember looking at Jeff and wondering if I should be okay with everyone taking him, or be happy that he wasn't screaming.
We all survived!
On today, I am most thankful for the birth mom who chose the most incredible gift that I believe can be displayed here on earth! First, you chose life! Second, you were amazingly brave, selfless, courageous and so thoughtful, that you chose to give your boys up for adoption! What an inspiration you are. (While what I would say to our birth mom will remain private, my prayers are always that she has felt God's presence in her life and a sense of peace with her decision).
I also am so thankful for our foster mom and her mom who loved and took care of our boys until we could bring them home. These women, as all the foster moms are, are truly devoted to our children. They love our children so much! I am so glad we had the opportunity to meet them and even be given the gift of visiting their home. So many specials memories!
6 short years! Wow! Time has flown! We are so blessed!
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Tuesday's Tidbit
Friday, September 9, 2011
First Grade!
We started First Grade this week!
"I am excited for Phonics and playing with my friends!"
My boys are moving at lightning speed. I thought it was just a few months ago that they were crawling around and taking 2 naps a day. Now we have entered the school years full force and look forward to lots of fun!
Cheeeese!
What first day is not complete without a family picture!
"I am excited for writing and math!"
Thursday, September 1, 2011
Pretty Pretty Princess
I have 2 older brothers. I have 2 older brothers who like to play with swords and little green army men and build things out of their legos. I have 2 older brothers who like to take my things and then use them for other things. I have 1 older brother who ties all my things together. They want to be a baseball player and a police men when they grow up.
I want to be a mommy.
I want to be a mommy who gets to wear princess dresses.
I like to play with my dolls and stuffed animals and dance and twirl and make silly songs.
Some day, can I boss my older brothers around?
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Taking back summer- Day 1
I have been working this month, A LOT! We've missed out on something called Summer!
We all needed a break....it was nice!
We actually have 2 adoption agencies that we have worked with through the years. Our main agency is in Arizona, but our placing agency is located here in California. I received an email from them about a week ago planning an end of summer pool party and completely jumped for joy. My heart has always been to surround our kids with other AP's and their families. I was even more excited when I found out the hosting family lives in a neighborhood nearby.
We all had a blast today. Their were two other boys right around the same age as my boys so they all had a blast. One family had an older daughter and she absolutely loved playing with Maya, so it was fun that I could meet some of the moms. There weren't many there, but that does make it better. One mom is in the process and had such valuable questions that she asked. It was great to think back and remember our own process and how far we really have come. It also breaks my heart to hear about how long the process takes now.
But we all enjoyed some time out in the sun!!!
Boys hanging out. Mine is in the middle
My waterbug! It was hard to catch her and dry her off!!!
Pretty sure Kai had the whole deep end to himself here
We all needed a break....it was nice!
We actually have 2 adoption agencies that we have worked with through the years. Our main agency is in Arizona, but our placing agency is located here in California. I received an email from them about a week ago planning an end of summer pool party and completely jumped for joy. My heart has always been to surround our kids with other AP's and their families. I was even more excited when I found out the hosting family lives in a neighborhood nearby.
We all had a blast today. Their were two other boys right around the same age as my boys so they all had a blast. One family had an older daughter and she absolutely loved playing with Maya, so it was fun that I could meet some of the moms. There weren't many there, but that does make it better. One mom is in the process and had such valuable questions that she asked. It was great to think back and remember our own process and how far we really have come. It also breaks my heart to hear about how long the process takes now.
But we all enjoyed some time out in the sun!!!
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
K's Airport
However, lately he has been in a building mode. Mostly airports. These airports are protected by his trusty ducks and little green army men! And in case you are wondering- the castle is the parking garage!
Thursday, August 11, 2011
Off to the Races
August marks the end of summer for me. While I was able to squeak in a few extra days the first week, this week there was no denying the pile of work that needed to be done. After 3 days at a work conference, it's time to hit the pavement! Okay, not actually hit the pavement. I will need to drive on it as I meet with 14 families and counting.
I usually set goals for myself each year in regards to church, hubby, family, kids, my job, cooking, etc. Not doing it this year. This year my goal is simple- take AT LEAST 10 minutes per child, per day to have some quality face time! I know it sounds silly and an easy thing to do. But when you already work full time, homeschool part time, make 99% of everything your family eats and everything else..... I will be honest in saying that it did not always happen last year.
So someone....please hold me accountable to this!!!!
I usually set goals for myself each year in regards to church, hubby, family, kids, my job, cooking, etc. Not doing it this year. This year my goal is simple- take AT LEAST 10 minutes per child, per day to have some quality face time! I know it sounds silly and an easy thing to do. But when you already work full time, homeschool part time, make 99% of everything your family eats and everything else..... I will be honest in saying that it did not always happen last year.
So someone....please hold me accountable to this!!!!
Sunday, August 7, 2011
Thursday, August 4, 2011
Hysterical
So the below photos were taken from my phone, while laughing...so the quality is pretty bad. However....this was hysterical and brilliant all at the same time.
I wish I had the creative gene, but I don't. Whoever came up with this idea is a genius!
My mom and I ran some errands in the mall today. I need to preface...I dislike the mall and avoid it at all costs. In fact, chances are I won't go near it for many many months. Anyway, that's not the point.
We kept seeing kids wandering around the mall with dog balloons on a leash. It was so funny to see them. Then we headed downstairs and came upon this:
GOLD MINE! How do you not get one? Not only are they just cute, but the animals are all lined up in little pens complete with snack bowls (just in case they get hungry). And if it doesn't get any better, Gramma was with us!!!
So once again, not great pictures, but the kids each picked out their own animal to take care of. And I will get a chance to play with them after they all go to bed! Hee Hee!
I wish I had the creative gene, but I don't. Whoever came up with this idea is a genius!
My mom and I ran some errands in the mall today. I need to preface...I dislike the mall and avoid it at all costs. In fact, chances are I won't go near it for many many months. Anyway, that's not the point.
We kept seeing kids wandering around the mall with dog balloons on a leash. It was so funny to see them. Then we headed downstairs and came upon this:
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
Tuesday's Tidbit
Grilled Pineapple and Shrimp Kebabs
My boys have been begging for shrimp lately! Every now and then they begin to fixate on a type of food and would have it for breakfast if it was offered. I was not going to offer it for breakfast, but did think I could come up with something clever.
While there are lots of versions on the web, I chose not to look and use what I had on hand and what my Dad could find at our local Asian grocery.
We used:
2 lbs uncooked shrimp- which we shelled and de-veined
1.5 cans of pineapple- after dealing with the shrimp, who wanted to cut a pineapple
A gluten free tangy marinade sauce to coat the shrimp and pineapple
and 1 grill.
I did double skewer the shrimp to make sure they stayed in place.
It was that easy and oh so tasty!!
While there are lots of versions on the web, I chose not to look and use what I had on hand and what my Dad could find at our local Asian grocery.
We used:
2 lbs uncooked shrimp- which we shelled and de-veined
1.5 cans of pineapple- after dealing with the shrimp, who wanted to cut a pineapple
A gluten free tangy marinade sauce to coat the shrimp and pineapple
and 1 grill.
I did double skewer the shrimp to make sure they stayed in place.
It was that easy and oh so tasty!!
Thursday, July 28, 2011
The push of a button
I turned on my computer yesterday morning to complete 3 simple tasks. Two emails and one food co-op order. So simple, so quick, so painless. Then the rest of the day was to be devoted to errands, fort building and so on.
And then it happened!
The little box in the bottom right hand corner of my computer screen flashed update needed. I debated for a moment thinking about how I just wanted to jump on and jump off. I still have a few days left of my summer vacation, who wants to spend it on the computer. However, I decided to click the button and install the update.
WRONG MOVE!!!!
Computer won't restart. Ahhh! Take a deep breath, try again! Nothing. Okay....hang on a second, I'll unplug my computer, plug it back in but this time move it closer to me (perhaps it was lonely). Nothing. Okay...I'll try to act like I know what I am doing and hit all those function buttons! One of those has got to work, right? Nothing. No wait.....on top of nothing my laptop gave me a high pitch shrill sound. UGH!
Okay, think for a moment. Call Dad!!! He has caller ID and didn't answer. Text him! Claims he is in a meeting. Okay....grab phone and look up computer company information, call them!!!!
This is where things went from bad to worse! You know who you get on the other line. They read from a script. Try this, push that, hit this, unplug this (why do you unplug again?) And of course...buy this, pay for that. I must have had the dumb voice sound or panic stricken sound over the phone because I paid for basically anything and everything.
End result- computer wiped clean! Argh!
In my frustration, I took it out in face*ook post! About 30 minutes later the golden text arrived on my phone. A friend sent such a simple text that I sat staring at my phone for few minutes. Of course I was also blurry eyed from crying over the loss of my laptop! Call my husband is what she sent. Then another with phone number included. I hesitated for all of about 1 minute and called!
14 hours later....... (literally 12 hrs straight!)
My computer is working again! Oh PRAISE GOD! Oh HAPPY DAY!!!! Present day miracle!!! No joke!!!!
Other then losing all my email contacts, I believe I have everything back. Okay, I can't access one email account right now, but really.....I cannot cannot cannot complain!
My call to the company literally cleared off my computer, so how he did it, I still have no clue and yet I was sitting there watching it the whole time. I am so impressed and forever and ever grateful and wished I lived closer that I could thank in person, hand over my first born, you name it!
So while I come off of this emotionally draining 36 hrs, I HIGHLY recommend that if you ever ever ever have any computer issues, contact this company. You will NOT be disappointed.
Check it out: Dominion Technologies
Side Bar- Kids get major kudos for dealing with a distraught mom who didn't even make it downstairs to feed them lunch. At one point while on hold (prior to finding an charging my headset...) I flung carrots, sweet peppers and bread at them and put in a movie! And then called hubby crying begging him to come home. Not that he could fix the problem, but something about having someone there to hold me back from physically throwing my computer out the window seemed reassuring!
I think I need a few days away from technology!
And then it happened!
The little box in the bottom right hand corner of my computer screen flashed update needed. I debated for a moment thinking about how I just wanted to jump on and jump off. I still have a few days left of my summer vacation, who wants to spend it on the computer. However, I decided to click the button and install the update.
WRONG MOVE!!!!
Computer won't restart. Ahhh! Take a deep breath, try again! Nothing. Okay....hang on a second, I'll unplug my computer, plug it back in but this time move it closer to me (perhaps it was lonely). Nothing. Okay...I'll try to act like I know what I am doing and hit all those function buttons! One of those has got to work, right? Nothing. No wait.....on top of nothing my laptop gave me a high pitch shrill sound. UGH!
Okay, think for a moment. Call Dad!!! He has caller ID and didn't answer. Text him! Claims he is in a meeting. Okay....grab phone and look up computer company information, call them!!!!
This is where things went from bad to worse! You know who you get on the other line. They read from a script. Try this, push that, hit this, unplug this (why do you unplug again?) And of course...buy this, pay for that. I must have had the dumb voice sound or panic stricken sound over the phone because I paid for basically anything and everything.
End result- computer wiped clean! Argh!
In my frustration, I took it out in face*ook post! About 30 minutes later the golden text arrived on my phone. A friend sent such a simple text that I sat staring at my phone for few minutes. Of course I was also blurry eyed from crying over the loss of my laptop! Call my husband is what she sent. Then another with phone number included. I hesitated for all of about 1 minute and called!
14 hours later....... (literally 12 hrs straight!)
My computer is working again! Oh PRAISE GOD! Oh HAPPY DAY!!!! Present day miracle!!! No joke!!!!
Other then losing all my email contacts, I believe I have everything back. Okay, I can't access one email account right now, but really.....I cannot cannot cannot complain!
My call to the company literally cleared off my computer, so how he did it, I still have no clue and yet I was sitting there watching it the whole time. I am so impressed and forever and ever grateful and wished I lived closer that I could thank in person, hand over my first born, you name it!
So while I come off of this emotionally draining 36 hrs, I HIGHLY recommend that if you ever ever ever have any computer issues, contact this company. You will NOT be disappointed.
Check it out: Dominion Technologies
Side Bar- Kids get major kudos for dealing with a distraught mom who didn't even make it downstairs to feed them lunch. At one point while on hold (prior to finding an charging my headset...) I flung carrots, sweet peppers and bread at them and put in a movie! And then called hubby crying begging him to come home. Not that he could fix the problem, but something about having someone there to hold me back from physically throwing my computer out the window seemed reassuring!
I think I need a few days away from technology!
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Tuesday's Tidbit
I think this post is more of a statement rather than a tidbit, but perhaps your comment (should you decide to comment) can become the tidbit.
I CANNOT WEAR MY KIDS OUT!!!!!!
They have more energy than I know what to do with! I come home from our morning adventure's and cannot wait for nap time. Just the mere thought of getting a 30 minute snooze excites me. The kids....they have other plans!
Today, my friend had the great idea of wearing out all the kids at a local bounce house place. For 90 minutes they ran, they jumped, they crawled and climbed, they slid, why they even shot cannons! We were tired from just watching them. Took them to lunch...and then came home.
I was so excited! They had to be tired. Got Miss M into bed, let the boys play downstairs for awhile longer and then the magical hour of rest time came! Reminded the boys of what a blessing it would be to remain quiet for 45 minutes! I mean really, what is 45 minutes anyway? I closed the door and RAN into my room. The AC was on, the fan was on, I was cozy....ahhh, perfection. Not 10 minutes later the door crept open and the bathroom trips began. UGH!!! My kids have NO clue how to be quiet, so there went nap time.
Oh well, I probably shouldn't be napping anyway. Though perhaps tomorrow I will teach them about long distance running!
I CANNOT WEAR MY KIDS OUT!!!!!!
They have more energy than I know what to do with! I come home from our morning adventure's and cannot wait for nap time. Just the mere thought of getting a 30 minute snooze excites me. The kids....they have other plans!
Today, my friend had the great idea of wearing out all the kids at a local bounce house place. For 90 minutes they ran, they jumped, they crawled and climbed, they slid, why they even shot cannons! We were tired from just watching them. Took them to lunch...and then came home.
I was so excited! They had to be tired. Got Miss M into bed, let the boys play downstairs for awhile longer and then the magical hour of rest time came! Reminded the boys of what a blessing it would be to remain quiet for 45 minutes! I mean really, what is 45 minutes anyway? I closed the door and RAN into my room. The AC was on, the fan was on, I was cozy....ahhh, perfection. Not 10 minutes later the door crept open and the bathroom trips began. UGH!!! My kids have NO clue how to be quiet, so there went nap time.
Oh well, I probably shouldn't be napping anyway. Though perhaps tomorrow I will teach them about long distance running!
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
Tuesday's Tidbit
Not that this is really a tidbit, I just felt like Buster wasn't getting his due attention. At 8 1/2 years old, he is really starting to show his age and doesn't move around a whole lot anymore. So anytime I seem him romping around, he gets his picture taken.
Though I can say this tidbit with confidence- Giving him a bath by myself is NOT a great idea!
Saturday, July 16, 2011
Our family eating style
I have changed up the way our family eats this year. My ultimate goal is to have us eating completely clean. It's a slow progress due to work schedule, life, etc., but we have taken some major strides in getting there.
Currently we are gluten, dairy, soy, and corn free. It doesn't mean that we don't jump off the bandwagon from time to time, but I found out that many of us are actually allergic to most of these foods. Gluten and Dairy are our biggest allergens.
I have truly noticed a difference in the kids and I when we stay true to what we can and cannot eat. My hubby is a different story. While he supports my decision and has even seen the proof in one of our kids, old eating habits are hard to kick. I will say that he has done wonderfully at home and is always up for trying new foods (as long as it's not fermented...but I'll get him there eventually!)
I absolutely LOVE cooking for my family. I love that 99% of what we eat is prepared by myself or my husband. It's time consuming and sometimes I get discouraged when I want to blink my eyes and have something on the table, but the end result is always worth the effort.
My must haves!:
My Vitamix- oh how I love thee!
My Dehydrator
My Crockpot
Almond Flour
Coconut Flour
Maple Syrup
Celtic Salt
Lots and Lots of herbs and spices
Now, if I can just convince my hubby to allow me to get chickens!
Currently we are gluten, dairy, soy, and corn free. It doesn't mean that we don't jump off the bandwagon from time to time, but I found out that many of us are actually allergic to most of these foods. Gluten and Dairy are our biggest allergens.
I have truly noticed a difference in the kids and I when we stay true to what we can and cannot eat. My hubby is a different story. While he supports my decision and has even seen the proof in one of our kids, old eating habits are hard to kick. I will say that he has done wonderfully at home and is always up for trying new foods (as long as it's not fermented...but I'll get him there eventually!)
I absolutely LOVE cooking for my family. I love that 99% of what we eat is prepared by myself or my husband. It's time consuming and sometimes I get discouraged when I want to blink my eyes and have something on the table, but the end result is always worth the effort.
My must haves!:
My Vitamix- oh how I love thee!
My Dehydrator
My Crockpot
Almond Flour
Coconut Flour
Maple Syrup
Celtic Salt
Lots and Lots of herbs and spices
Now, if I can just convince my hubby to allow me to get chickens!
Almond Biscuits
These are so good! This is a recipe courtesy of my friend at Nourishing Home.
Almond flour is a good source of protein and is high in dietary fiber, vitamin E, calcium, riboflavin, copper, zinc and magnesium. If you're living grain-free/gluten-free, it's important to choose nutritionally dense options such as almond flour and coconut flour, in contrast to baking with GF flours that contain nutritionally-poor ingredients like white rice flour, tapioca flour and potato starch.
Almond Flour Buttermilk Biscuits
2 1/2 cups blanched almond flour
1/2 tsp sea salt
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/8 tsp baking powder
3 tbsp butter, melted (or melted coconut oil)- I use coconut oil
1 tbsp honey
3 tbsp cultured buttermilk (or almond milk)- I use almond milk
2 large eggs
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a medium bowl, combine almond flour, salt, baking soda and baking powder. In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter and honey, until smooth. Add the buttermilk and eggs, whisking together until well combined. Using a spoon, stir the wet mixture into the dry mixture until thoroughly combined. Drop the biscuit dough by large spoonfuls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, placing the biscuits approximately two-inches apart. Bake about 15 minutes, until golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted in middle comes out clean. Serve warm with butter, raw honey or homemade jam. Makes about a dozen three-inch round biscuits. (Recipe inspired by The Gluten-Free Almond Flour Cookbook by Elana Amsterdam.)
Almond flour is a good source of protein and is high in dietary fiber, vitamin E, calcium, riboflavin, copper, zinc and magnesium. If you're living grain-free/gluten-free, it's important to choose nutritionally dense options such as almond flour and coconut flour, in contrast to baking with GF flours that contain nutritionally-poor ingredients like white rice flour, tapioca flour and potato starch.
Almond Flour Buttermilk Biscuits
2 1/2 cups blanched almond flour
1/2 tsp sea salt
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/8 tsp baking powder
3 tbsp butter, melted (or melted coconut oil)- I use coconut oil
1 tbsp honey
3 tbsp cultured buttermilk (or almond milk)- I use almond milk
2 large eggs
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a medium bowl, combine almond flour, salt, baking soda and baking powder. In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter and honey, until smooth. Add the buttermilk and eggs, whisking together until well combined. Using a spoon, stir the wet mixture into the dry mixture until thoroughly combined. Drop the biscuit dough by large spoonfuls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, placing the biscuits approximately two-inches apart. Bake about 15 minutes, until golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted in middle comes out clean. Serve warm with butter, raw honey or homemade jam. Makes about a dozen three-inch round biscuits. (Recipe inspired by The Gluten-Free Almond Flour Cookbook by Elana Amsterdam.)
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
My Family
I am jumping for joy...almost all 5 of us are looking at the camera and smiling! I can basically classify this as a miracle! It's only taken 5 1/2 years to get this close.
Monday, July 11, 2011
Boys Graduate
My boys finished Kindergarten! How did this year go by so quickly?
So proud of you!!! We made it through our first year of schooling.
So proud of you!!! We made it through our first year of schooling.
Sunday, June 12, 2011
Blog Break
Here I am creating a new blog and then I haven't really posted anything on it. Not good!
Actually, I have a wonderful friend who is going to help me re-design this blog and will hopefully inspire me to continue to write despite the craziness of life.
It also helps that in 1 week, I will be done with work for a little bit and the boys will be done with school!
So.Very.Close!
Actually, I have a wonderful friend who is going to help me re-design this blog and will hopefully inspire me to continue to write despite the craziness of life.
It also helps that in 1 week, I will be done with work for a little bit and the boys will be done with school!
So.Very.Close!
Sunday, March 27, 2011
Monday, March 21, 2011
My boys are growing up!
I have to go squeeze my boys now!
Sunday, March 13, 2011
Cornerstone Tea
I'm 40!
We did support my hubby turning 40 by heading for pizza and then our favorite shave ice place. It was cold outside (Miss M was shivering as she happily ate her fill), but we all enjoyed the special treat.
Happy Birthday my love! I cannot wait to celebrate another 40 with you.
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
Counting Down
My husband turns 40 in just a few short days. Where did the time go? I seem to remember my parent's friends turning 40 when I was in high school. Our own kids aren't even in first grade yet.
Despite that, he's young at heart and always seems to have energy.
I threw him a surprise party over the weekend to ring in this special year. Hoping to post pictures soon!
Despite that, he's young at heart and always seems to have energy.
I threw him a surprise party over the weekend to ring in this special year. Hoping to post pictures soon!
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Work in Progress
I've had a blog for years but took my last one private. I'll be up and running soon and excited to share all that is going on.
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