Tuesday, March 31, 2009

April Fool's Day

I'm warming up to the idea that this year, with both a 3 and 1 year old in the house that it is high time we do some April Fool's planning.

Wikepedia defines this fun day as "April Fools' Day or All Fools' Day, although not a holiday in its own right, is a notable day celebrated in many countries on April 1. The day is marked by the commission of hoaxes and other practical jokes of varying sophistication on friends, family members, enemies, and neighbors, or sending them on fool's errand, the aim of which is to embarrass the gullible. Traditionally, in some countries, the jokes only last until noon: like UK, Australia, New Zealand and Canada, someone who plays a trick after noon is called an "April Fool".[1] Elsewhere, such as in Ireland, France, and the USA, the jokes last all day. Another origin is that April 1 was counted the first day of the year in France. When King Charles IX changed that to January 1, some people stayed with April 1. Those who did were called "April Fools" and were taunted by their neighbors."

Tip Junkie has a ton of great ideas that she has found throughout the Internet. I found on FamilyFun.com a ton of ideas. Their top ten were actually do-able. I may try to incorporate one or two in our house tomorrow.
I think we'll do the "Big Foot" where we will crumple up newspaper and stuffed it into the toes of Daddy's shoes. We'll have to see how long it takes him to figure out why they are suddenly too small. The kids likely won't really understand it but I'll have fun encouraging them to do it while taking photographic evidence.

Monday, March 30, 2009

Menu Plan Monday

I was stuck this week for things to plan for the menu but thankfully the Internet and Google have helped me once again. We're still getting over the cold that has been hanging on for a month (with me at least). I am feeling significantly better but the kids have completely changed their likes and dislikes. This is what I'm going to try out this week - very low-key and kid friendly (I hope!).

I also can't wait for the Once A Month Mom April calendar to come out.

I took a look at their March recipe and selected a few to start this week. I'm starting the menu on Monday and going to Sunday.

Breakfast
Banana & Breakfast Bars
Banana & Cereal
Chocolate Chip Raspberry Pancakes
English Muffins with apple butter
Farmer’s Casserole
Breakfast Sausages & Eggs

Lunch
Whole wheat pasta & tomato sauce
Pizza Roll-Ups & pears
Baked Chicken Fingers & sweet potato fries
Grilled cheese & meat sandwiches & apple slices
Macaroni & cheese & yogurt & strawberries
Chicken hot dogs & potato chips
Leftovers

Dinner
Pork chops & baked apples & asparagus & baked potato
Chicken cordon bleu & salad & steamed broccoli/cauliflower/carrots
Italian Meatloaf (from Deceptively Delicious cookbook) & mashed potatoes with pureed cauliflower
Hamburgers & french fries & salad
Steak & baked potatoes & corn
Chicken parmesana & spaghetti & salad
Ham & scalloped potatoes & beans

Dessert
Chocolate chip cookies (kids choice)
Crock Pot Apple Cranberry Crisp
Lemon Meringue Pie
Frozen Yogurt
**desserts will be eaten various nights throughout the week


Don't forget to check out I'm an Organizing Junkie for more Menu Plan ideas. Tell them More Than A Mom sent you!

Sunday, March 29, 2009

Soaring Spirit Sunday


FIFTH SUNDAY OF LENT

~A RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD—CLEAR OF CLUTTER~

Jn 11:1-45; 12:20-33; 8:1-11 One characteristic of a “decluttered” relationship with God is the willingness to wait. Think of Martha and Mary. They sent word to Jesus that Lazarus was ill. Jesus did not answer their prayers the way they wanted, but what a glorious end to the story!

MONDAY: ‘WHOEVER AMONG YOU IS WITHOUT SIN …’
Dn 13:1-9, 15-17, 19-30, 33-62; Jn 8:1-11 Jesus was merciful and gentle to the woman caught in adultery. Is there anyone “caught in sin” that I could treat more as Jesus dealt with this woman?

TUESDAY: ‘I ALWAYS DO WHAT IS PLEASING TO GOD’
Nm 21:4-9; Jn 8:21-30 Only Jesus can say these words. But Jesus is always there to forgive if I only “look up” and give him the chance.

WEDNESDAY: ‘YOU WILL KNOW THE TRUTH …’
Dn 3:14-20, 91-92, 95; Jn 8:31-42 God shows me the truth if I stay in touch through prayer. Relationship is all about sharing. Do I share myself with Jesus and let him share himself with me?

THURSDAY: CHILDREN OF ABRAHAM
Gn 17:3-9; Jn 8:51-59 “Whoever keeps my word” is a true child of Abraham, Jesus said. How do I “keep God’s word”?

FRIDAY: ‘THE FATHER IS IN ME AND I AM IN THE FATHER”
Jer 20:10-13; Jn 10:31-42 Through Jesus’ death and resurrection, I am also “in the Father” in a deep, intimate relationship. How have I experienced this?

SATURDAY: THE EVERLASTING COVENANT
Ez 37:21-28; Jn 11:45-57 God’s deepest wish for us is: “I will be their God, and they shall be my people.” This is the essence of what prayer should be. How does this change my image of what my relationship with God should be

Saturday, March 28, 2009

Story Saturday

I read the book "Fruit" by Brian Francis. When I read the subtitle "a story about a boy and his nipples" I should have stopped there. But it is on the Canada Reads 2009 short list, so it must be good - right? It was weird. Sure there were some laugh out loud moments but it was really strange. I don't recommend it.
Thirteen-year-old Peter Paddington is overweight, the subject of his classmates' ridicule, and the victim of too many bad movie-of-the-week storylines. When his nipples begin speaking to him one day and inform him of their diabolical plan to expose his secret desires, Peter finds himself cornered in a world that seems to have no tolerance for difference. Peter's only solace is "The Bedtime Movies" - perfect-world fantasies that lull him to sleep every night. But when the lines between Peter's fantasies and his reality begin to blur, his hilarious adventures in overeating, family dysfunction, and the terrifying world of sexual awakening really begin.
I'm now reading "Lipstick Jungle" by Candace Bushnell. I need some light reading.

Friday, March 27, 2009

Finance Friday

I love to watch Gail Vaz Oxlade on "Til Debt Do Us Part". I stumbled across her blog. She has great worksheets too. I can't seem to find her relationship rescue worksheets though. I think this would be great to ensure the dialogue between partners is there and that the "right" things are being discussed.

I love her budget worksheet. I use a similar one myself. I love how she tells you how much to put in your cash jars too.

Thursday, March 26, 2009

Toss It Thursday

The Canadian Diabetes Association is coming next Wednesday, April 1st to collect donations. I have a pile of items to give to them. I'm excited to get it out of the house.


I'm still stuck in the kitchen. Hubby bought some nice plastic "trays" to organize the pantry. I must have been sick because he took it upon himself to put the items in it. He did a pretty good job too. I'm hoping once I lick this cold for good that it will get all under control.

I took "before" photos that I'm going to post now of the cupboards and drawers in the kitchen.






















As you can see, I've got my work cut out for me!

Wednesday, March 25, 2009

Workin' Out Wednesday

Even though I've had a chest cold, I signed up for a learn to run clinic through The Running Room.

It's for women only and this past Saturday (March 21st) was our first run and clinic. We ran for 1 minute and walked for 2 minutes, seven sets of these for a total of 21 minutes. I am very proud of myself for running all but the second last minute. Not bad considering my hacking cough.

I haven't practised again yet this week because I'm STILL recovering (this is my fourth week of being sick). I am planning on going tonight though. It's only 21 minutes - surely I can squeeze it in!

I felt so great after Saturday that it is motivation to do it tonight and one more time before this Saturday's clinic ~ we'll be walking 1 minute and running 1 minute this Saturday so I've got to step it up.

Tuesday, March 24, 2009

Toddler Tuesday

I signed out a craft book from the library so that I can start working on crafts with the kids. I'm quite nervous about this as I've never been interested in the mess of kids crafts. For my children I will do it, though.

How do you plan for crafts? Where do you get your ideas? How do you deal with the mess or does it not bother you? What do you do with the crafts after they are done?

Monday, March 23, 2009

Menu Plan Monday

I was sick last week so our menu didn't really happen. I'm trying to use up some of the food we have in our freezer and in the pantry as part of spring cleaning and reorganizing.

Breakfasts
Slimfast shakes (Mom)
Yogurt, toast, fruit and chocolate milk (Kids)

Morning Snacks
Monday through Friday ~ grapes & crackers

Lunch
Monday ~ cheesy cauliflower soup, yogurt, homemade banana muffins (Kids)
~ garden salad, spare rib leftovers (Mom)

Tuesday ~ tuna fish sandwiches, applesauce, carrots (Mom & Kids)

Wednesday ~ whole wheat noodles with spaghetti sauce, peas, canned peaches (Kids)

Thursday ~ waffles, blueberries (frozen), yogurt (Kids)
~ egg salad sandwich, celery (Mom)

Friday ~ english muffins, deli meat, cheese, oranges (Kids & Mom)

Saturday ~ chicken hot dogs, apple slices (Kids & Mom & Dad)


Afternoon Snack
Monday ~ dried apricots
Tuesday ~ granola bars
Wednesday ~ cheese & apple slices
Thursday ~ peanut butter on celery sticks with raisins "ants on a log"
Friday ~ trail mix
Saturday ~ popsicles


Dinner
Monday ~ Pork Chops in cream of mushroom soup, baked apples, broccoli/carrot/cauliflower mix


Tuesday ~ Chicken parmesana, noodles, vegetables (TBD)

Wednesday ~ Hamburger Helper, salad

Thursday ~ Fish, sweet potato fries, grilled zucchini

Friday ~ Homemade Pizza, caesar salad

Saturday ~ Steak, baked potatoes, cooked carrots, salad


For more great meal plan ideas, don't forget to visit I'm an Organizing Junkie.

Sunday, March 22, 2009

Soaring Spirit Sunday


FOURTH SUNDAY OF LENT
~CLEARING THE WORRY FROM MY MIND~

Jn 9:1-41; Jn 3:14-21; Lk 15:1-3, 11-32 I cannot be afraid to be bold or worry about what others think of me. The man born blind didn’t worry about the outcome of his case; he stood up to the Jewish leaders and lectured them. Pray this week to have that attitude and to trust God no matter what.
MONDAY: TAKING JESUS AT HIS WORD
Is 65:17-21; Jn 4:43-54 The royal official who asked Jesus to heal his son lived a day’s journey away. He headed home, believing, but he must have worried. Can I relate? Have I ever trusted God but had to wait to see the outcome?
TUESDAY: DO I WANT TO BE MADE WELL?
Ez 47:1-9, 12; Jn 5:1-16 Jesus could ask me the same question. Do I really want to trust God in everything? What would life be like if I did not worry?
WEDNESDAY: THE SON ACTS NOT ON HIS OWN
Is 49:8-15; Jn 5:17-30 If Jesus could do “nothing on his own,” surely I am even more dependent on God’s grace to overcome my problems. If worry (or anything else) is cluttering my life, I ask for God’s help. I, too, can do nothing on my own.
THURSDAY: ACCEPTING GLORY FROM OTHERS
Ex 32:7-14; Jn 5:31-47 Jesus accuses the Jewish leaders of caring more for one another’s approval than for God’s. Is that a problem in my life? I ask Jesus to help me seek God first.
FRIDAY: THE GOSSIPS OF JERUSALEM
Wis 2:1a, 12-22; Jn 7:1-2, 10, 25-30 The pilgrims in Jerusalem were having a great time gossiping about Jesus. Do I worry about what others are saying about me behind my back and want to “set the record straight”? I discuss this with Jesus, who experienced the same problem.
SATURDAY: COMMITTING MY CAUSE TO GOD
Jer 11:18-20; Jn 7:40-53 Jeremiah was thrown into a cistern, and Jesus was made fun of for doing God’s work. Doing and saying what is right often lead to persecution and ridicule. Today, I ask God to help me be strong and bold. If I am persecuted, I am in good company.

Saturday, March 21, 2009

Story Saturday

I'm reading "An Audience of Chairs" by Joan Clark. I would be done right now except for me getting sick. It's not the most exciting book so far and I really don't want to finish it. I'm about half-way done and if it weren't for the book club I doubt I would. I may reconsider but at this point it's a no thank you.

Friday, March 20, 2009

How Much Puke Can One Little Body Make?


I haven't been doing a great job blogging this week because we've been sick at our house. On Tuesday I got hit super hard and had a fever, chills and sweats, and could barely lift my head. Grandma (my mommy) came to save the day (having been sick with it the day before herself but mostly recovered). When she saved our day it was enough to set her back and she's weakened again. I love Grandma and I'm sorry she got sick (again ...) from us.

I don't know how much more puke my husband can clean up and I can "catch". Revolting, I know. This has been our reality for a week now. My daughter (3 years old) gags very easily in general. It doesn't help that this deep cough sets her off. I've had to sleep in her room every night to help her when she wakes up, keep her quiet, and try to sleep myself to rest and get rid of my cold. I'm sure hubby appreciates my efforts to not get him sick, too. Thankfully the fever seems to be breaking for both the kids and myself and I think hubby has avoided the cold or flu (whatever it is) thus far. It just keeps going on and on though. It's the weekend now so lots of fluid and rest should get us all on the mend. I hope!

Wednesday, March 18, 2009

There Is A Gang In Our Neighbourhood

The "link" to this post got published before I had a chance to write the story. I had set it to save a week out and then I got sick. If you were confused, here was what the article was supposed to say ...

Hubby and I were going for a walk with the kids the other day and I noticed the graffiti that was new and everywhere. It's terrible! Hubby tells me they are gang letters. Apparently I live in a cave - but this cave has Google, friends! So I came home and checked out the letters "BFC".

As part of my unofficial hypothesis, the research suggests this group is the "Crips". "Originating in Los Angeles, California in 1969, The Crips are one of the oldest, largest and most notorious gangs in the United States".
click here for more details

The Crips hate the Bloods (another gang). This is likely the use of "BFC!" although I can't seem to understand the "F".

I'm going back to my cave now, after I turn on the alarm. Sometimes you need a sheltered lifestyle or you would just go crazy with all the ill-will in the world around us.

Monday, March 16, 2009

Menu Plan Monday

Morning Snack
Crackers
Fruit

Lunch
Monday
Leftovers
Bread & Butter
Sliced Grapes

Tuesday
Whole Wheat Pasta
7-Vegetable Tomato Sauce
Bananas

Wednesday
Chicken Noodle Soup
Tuna Melts
Strawberries

Thursday
Zucchini Pie/Quiche
Yogurt
Apple Slices

Friday
Deli Meat, Cheese & Bagel
Pears

Afternoon Snack
Monday
Home Made Apple Bars

Tuesday
Zucchini & Carrot Muffins

Wednesday
Brownies

Thursday
Zucchini & Carrot Muffins

Friday
Apple Bars


Dinner
Sunday
Chicken
Spinach
Baked Potatoes

Monday
Glazed Salmon
Rice
Corn

Tuesday
Steak
Baked Potatoes
Broccoli
Birthday Cake (Ava's 3rd birthday)

Wednesday
Hamburger Helper
Cooked Carrots

Thursday
Pork Chops in Cream Sauce (Crock Pot)
Roast Vegetable Mix (Crock Pot)

Friday
Homemade Pizza

Saturday
Leftovers

Sunday, March 15, 2009

SITS Giveaway Winner Is Bethany!

Congratulations to Bethany at this that -n-t'other.

Soaring Spirit Sunday

THIRD SUNDAY OF LENT
~CLEARING UNFORGIVENESS FROM MY HEART~

Jn 4:5-42; Jn 2:13-25; Lk 13:1-9
Jesus told the woman at the well that God’s life is like “a spring of water gushing up to eternal life.” If I am unwilling to forgive, this acts like a dam that blocks the flow of God’s grace. This week, I will consider whether there is anyone whom I need to forgive. God wants me to forgive them and pray for their healing.

MONDAY: JESUS’ HOMETOWN REJECTS HIM
2 Kgs 5:1-15b; Lk 4:24-30 Does it ever seem that those closest to me are the ones who respect me the least? Jesus experienced this in Nazareth. Forgiveness often has to start with those in my immediate family.

TUESDAY: HOW OFTEN SHOULD I FORGIVE?
Dn 3:25, 34-43; Mt 18:21-35 The parable of the two servants helps me put forgiveness in perspective. My debt to God far exceeds what anyone owes me. I thank God today for all the times God has forgiven me.

WEDNESDAY: FOR MY CHILDREN
Dt 4:1, 5-9; Mt 5:17-19 Passing on instruction about God’s ways to my children, grandchildren, or any children God puts in my path, is essential. Am I teaching the children around me how to forgive and love?

THURSDAY: A KINGDOM DIVIDED CANNOT SURVIVE
Jer 7:23-28; Lk 11:14-23 We are the Kingdom of God, the Body of Christ. Jesus warns that a kingdom cannot survive if it is divided against itself. Refusal to forgive others in the Church promotes disunity and division. Is there anyone in my Christian family I need to forgive?

FRIDAY: LOVING THE LORD WITH ALL MY HEART
Hos 14:2-10; Mk 12:28-34 There is no room for unforgiveness in my heart if I am loving God with all my heart. One sign that I am forgiving is when I can pray for those who hurt me. Today, I write down the names of anyone I need to forgive and ask God to bless them.

SATURDAY: COME, LET US RETURN TO GOD
Hos 6:1-6; Lk 18:9-14 Regardless of the problems I have with unforgiveness, God invites me to return to him and be healed. If I have discovered any deep problems in this area, I ask God today how to be healed. The Sacrament of Reconciliation? Professional counseling? I will not be afraid to seek help; God is faithful and wants to help me.

Saturday, March 14, 2009

The Time I Hurt Somebody...

I'm taking the writing challenge from Mama's Losin' It. I'm going to tell about a time I hurt somebody that still bothers me to this day.



In grade school there was a fellow named Ferdinand P. He was always a bit strange, picking his nose and chasing the girls with it. One day he fell off the portable railing and broke both of his fore-arms (whatever bone that was).

Anyhoo, I always had a soft spot for him. I had a class party (the first ever) in grade six. I invited everyone (including him). And everyone had a great time. Then the “selective” parties started. Some of which I wasn’t invited to. That hurt.

I had a second class party the next year, grade seven, and I invited a select group of people. Ferdinand called me to say he was going to bring his lawn darts. I hadn’t invited him but didn’t have the heart to tell him. So he came; with his lawn darts. I was nice to him but was more focused on my crush.


When a few of the “cool” kids came to tell me that he was spilling the drinks all over I went up to him and said, “Ferdinand, you are making a pest of yourself. You weren’t even invited but I let you stay, so please behave yourself.” The look on his face has stayed with me.

I did give him Christmas cards though throughout high school and sometimes he gave me one too. I think he forgave me but I still felt and feel crappy about that moment.

Story Saturday


My review



rating: 5 of 5 stars
This novel provided me with an understanding of Afghanistan and India and the life of women, arranged marriages and culture from the 1850s. I enjoyed watching the protagonist, Darya, survive in a multitude of situations, mainly beyond her control, and journey into womanhood.

Coincidentally I had also borrowed the movie "Charlie Wilson's War" and it was about current-day USA efforts in Afghanistan. Not to spoil the movie so I will use basic thoughts here, however, the lack of follow-through on the part of the United States for providing for an educated future for the country is telling of the current situation.

Both the novel and movie provided me with some basic knowledge for me about Afghanistan as well as some of its history and political issues.
~~~~~

Novel Summary from Kitchener Public Library
Moving swiftly between the tents of the Afghan plains to the tropical mansions of India to the dirty streets of London, this is a beautifully written novel about a 19th-century woman who, cursed by a jealous tribeswoman, travels to Victorian England in her desperate quest for survival.


Movie Summary

In the early 1980s, Charlie Wilson is a womanizing US congressional representative from Texas who seemed to be in the minor leagues, except for the fact that he is a member of two major foreign policy and covert-ops committees. However, prodded by his major conservative supporter, Joanne Herring, Wilson learns about the plight of the people are suffering in the brutal Soviet occupation of Afghanistan. With the help of the maverick CIA agent, Gust Avrakotos, Wilson dedicates his canny political efforts to supply the Afghan mujahideen with the weapons and support to defeat the Soviet Union. However, Charlie Wilson eventually learns that while military victory can had, there are other consequences and prices to that fight that are ignored to everyone's sorrow. Written by Kenneth Chisholm

Friday, March 13, 2009

Finance Friday

I still have openings in my home day care. I was hoping to get at least one or two school-aged kiddies for March Break (that starts on Monday). But no. I was also hoping to fill the empty spaces; out of a potential for five charges in addition to my own two, two are filled with full-time children and one of those has given their notice. I have another full-time to start at the end of May and then I have two more starting full-time in September. I really need to fill the spaces now and am getting extremely anxious. I suppose that with the lay-offs people are staying home with their children. I also hear that a lot of people who have been laid off are starting up their own home childcare programs. Dear me!

Thursday, March 12, 2009

Toss It Thursday

I have taken photos of all the cupboards (pre-organizing and decluttering) to motivate me to start. I found some nice containers at the $Dollar Store$ to get me enthusiastic and motivated to start. I did the top two shelves of the pantry. And then I got sick. For two weeks. And I am still sick. It was all I could do to get through the daily stuff, never mind the extra decluttering and deep cleaning. There was two weeks of laundry (which I have the last load folded and ready to put away, all else is done) and the sheets for the master bed are washed and in the dryer, ready to make up the bed. I finally unloaded the dishwasher and filled it up only to run it again. It was pretty scary but at least the house looks more reasonable. So ... do I extend the kitchen decluttering for another two weeks after the cold completely leaves my system?!

Where do we colour??

They sure do have their own innocence about them - children, that is. Here is a conversation I had with Ava (3 years old) while she was colouring with markers.

"Ava, are you colouring pretty pictures?"

"Yes, Mommy."

(Me walking to see where she is ...)

"Where are you?"

"In here!"

"In where? Oh ... what are you doing?" (as she steps away from the wall she's been colouring on).

"Do we colour on the walls?"

"Oh! I forgot." She then proceeds to walk back to her paper and continue colouring.

I remained calm and got a wet-wipe, wiped down the places where she wrote and, because it came off easily, went back to what I was doing.

Wednesday, March 11, 2009

Workin Out Wednesday

I (finally) came up with some exercises I want to do on a daily basis. They are:
  • leg lifts (inner) ~ 25 each side
  • leg lifts (outer) ~ 25 each side
  • bum scoot ~ 5 minutes
  • wide squats ~ 25
  • legs-together squats ~ 25
  • crunches ~ 50
  • oblique crunches ~ 25 each side
  • ab twists (standing washing machine) ~ 25
  • shoulder lifts ~ 12
  • wall push-ups ~ 12
  • crab position push-ups (triceps) ~ 12

As I am not a personal trainer, does anyone have anything they can suggest I add to get an all-over tone?


Tuesday, March 10, 2009

My SITS Spring Fling GIVEAWAY!

I am jumping on the Spring Fling bandwagon. As a SITS member, I've got a *surprise* giveaway for one lucky reader. Shipping to the USA and Canada only.

How To Enter
For 1 entry, leave a comment to this post. I'm interested to know what your favourite beauty supply or regime is and why.

If you are a follower you will receive an additional 2 entries. Not a follower? Follow me! Please let me know if you are a follower in your comment - and yes, I'll be checking up after you.

For 2 entries, blog about this contest and leave a separate comment here with a link to your post about this contest.

Contest ends Saturday, March 14 at 12 pm EST. Winner will be announced sometime Sunday, March 15. Make sure you have a valid email address for me to contact you. If I can't reach you and/or you don't respond to my email or the announcement on my blog, a new winner will be selected on Monday, March 16.

Thanks for stopping by, and please come by again!

Spring Fling

It's Spring Fling over at the SITS site. I love it! Tons of cool prizes and giveaways.

One of the contests is at Me And The Blue Skies where the DVD game, Scene It? Disney 2nd Edition and two Disney DVDs, The Little Mermaid II and The Little Mermaid Ariel's Beginning are being given away.

Toddler Tuesday ~ Controlling The Volcano Within

On a regular basis I attend parenting sessions at the local Early Years Centre. I have found a lot of these sessions useful and so I thought I would summarize a few over the next few weeks ~ partly as future reference for me, and partly for the benefit of other parents and/or caregivers.
Controlling the Volcano Within
The morning concentrated on the adult assisting the child in managing their overwhelming emotions.

The particular age of children we discussed for tools and situations were 0-6 years old. The tool that I feel was the strongest was the use of visual facial expressions and asking the child to point to the one that closest resembled how they were feeling. I tried it out later that day when Ava was having a melt-down from being tired and hungry. It worked to calm her down and she pointed to the sad face. I was so proud of her.






Let me tell you about my job on a never-ending basis

My day is all about others; they are the most demanding bunch I have ever known. They expect me to provide a fun, stimulating environment for them in addition to caring for their needs and ensuring their safety. I must take them for walks, play games with them, or entertain them in other ways. They invade my personal space and I have yet to have a full-night sleep. Would I have it any other way? Nope.

Monday, March 09, 2009

Menu Plan Monday


Lunch
Leftovers Bread & Butter
Sliced Grapes
2% Milk

Home Made Fettuccine
Bananas
2% Milk

Minestrone Vegetable Soup w/ Soda Crackers
Bread
2% Milk

Chicken Salad Sandwich w/ Grapes Oranges
2% Milk

Grilled Cheese & Ham Sandwiches
Kiwi
2% Milk


Afternoon Snack
Cheerios
Banana
Water

Whole Wheat Bagel
Cantaloupe
Water

Granola
Blueberries
Yogurt
Water

Whole Grain Toast
Banana
Water

Oatmeal Banana Bread
Sliced Grapes
Water


Dinner
Pan-Seared Salmon with Lemon-Sage Butter

Cube Steaks with Rich, Sweet Onion Gravy

Skillet Chicken Mediterranean

Thai Shrimp on Red & Green Cabbage

Homemade Pizza

Polka-Dot Meat Loaf

Carolina Crock Pork
Check out other Menu Plan Monday ideas

You Go Bear!

The bear, with it's sharp claws, would be able to slash the shark in it's eyes and on it's snout (which I understand are the most sensitive areas). He would also be able to hold it in its teeth while ripping it to shreds.

Sunday, March 08, 2009

Soaring Spirit Sunday

SECOND SUNDAY OF LENT
~CLEARING THE CLUTTER OUT OF MY WORK LIFE~

Mt 17:1-9; Mk 9:2-10; Lk 9:28-36 Peter’s reaction to seeing Jesus transfigured was to do something, build something. But God tells him and us, “This is my son. Listen to him.” In a culture where what we do is valued above who we are, listening to God is sadly neglected. This week, I will pray about the “clutter” of excess doing; about busy-ness, stress, and workaholism. Do I trust God with my work? Do I see myself as loved and valuable for who I am, not what I do?

MONDAY: BLESSINGS—OVERFLOWING, POURED INTO MY LAP
Dn 9:4b-10; Lk 6:36-38 Jesus promises blessings beyond belief when I give. To whom do I give my time and energy? Is it to career, work and chores? Is there anything left for God or people? Should I reorder my priorities?

TUESDAY: HEAVY BURDENS, HARD TO BEAR
Is 1:10, 16-20; Mt 23:1-12 Is there anyone in my life who has laid a heavy burden on my shoulders? Jesus promised that his yoke is easy and his burden light (Matthew 11:30). Are my burdens God’s will or the result of human selfishness?

WEDNESDAY: WANTING THE PLACE OF HONOR
Jer 18:18-20; Mt 20:17-28 Jesus told James and John that the greatest in the Kingdom is the humble servant. How much of my busy-ness is designed to gain a “place of honor”? Do I need to revise my thinking in this area?

THURSDAY: LIKE TREES PLANTED BY WATER
Jer 17:5-10; Lk 16:19-31 What a wonderful image—a tree planted by a running stream, always nourished, never in fear of drought. It is possible to live such a life by reading God’s word and praying often throughout the day. I, too, can be refreshed and fearless, no matter what happens.

FRIDAY: PRODUCING THE FRUITS OF THE KINGDOM
Gn 37:3-4, 12-13, 17-28; Mt 21:33-43, 45-46 The Kingdom will be given to those who produce the “fruits of the Kingdom.” What kind of “fruit” is my life producing? The lasting fruit of the Kingdom, or things that will not last beyond earthly life?


SATURDAY: GOD’S ARMS ARE OPEN WIDE
Mi 7:14-15, 18-20; Lk 15:1-3, 11-32 This parable could be called the parable of the faithful father. If I have realized this week that work and busy-ness are replacing my relationship with God, it’s time to come home to my Father.

The Dr. Ho Now Massager System Sells Itself

I have Dr. Ho's massage system. It really works well too!

Saturday, March 07, 2009

Story Saturday

Before I Wake by Robert J. Wiersema

My Review
rating: 3 of 5 stars

I enjoyed this novel. It was chosen as part of a book club I am in and I doubt I would have picked it up on my own, however, I am glad that I was introduced to it.

The format of mini-chapters being from a variety of characters kept my interest. It was a very easy read.


Summary from Kitchener Public Library

They say there are three sides to every story. Yours, mine and the truth.

In Before I Wake, debut novelist Robert J. Wiersema cleverly introduces a multitude of voices to tell this astonishing story of loss, redemption and forgiveness. And the truth? Well, when miracles start happening around Sherry Barrett, a three-year-old girl in a coma, explanations of a rational kind no longer seem important. Injured by a hit-and-run driver while crossing the street, Sherry Barrett lies in a hospital where her doctors say she will never wake up. Her distraught parents, Karen and Simon, make the painful decision to take her off life support. But when they do, Sherry spontaneously begins breathing on her own, the first of many miraculous events to occur.

Henry Denton, the driver who struck Sherry, is haunted by the accident and attempts to take his own life, only to be saved by an unexplained force.

Sherry’s nurse discovers that the little girl has the power to heal. When word of her gift leaks, the sick begin lining up to be saved and a mysterious stranger sets his sights on vanquishing the believers and the Barretts.

View all my reviews.

Friday, March 06, 2009

Finance Friday


This recession is starting to effect my home daycare business. There is such a slow-down for clients. I suppose this is because of lay-offs and people being home with their own children. It is this way with all of those in my Home Childcare Providers Network. I can't wait for it to turn around or I don't know what I will do for extra money.


How is the recession effecting you, if at all? What are you doing about it?

The Definition of "What I Did All Day With The Kids"

Thank you to Carolyn for saying it how it is. It sure made my day to realise what it is exactly that eats the time up each day when at the end of it I feel I really haven't accomplished all that much!

TELL ME ABOUT IT ®
By Carolyn Hax
Wednesday, May 23, 2007; Washington Post

Okay. I've done Internet searches, I've talked to parents. I don't get it. What do stay-at-home moms do all day? Please no lists of library, grocery store, dry cleaners . . . I do all those things, too, and I don't do them EVERY DAY. I guess what I'm asking is: What is a typical day and why don't moms have time for a call or e-mail? I work and am away from home nine hours a day (plus a few late work events) and I manage to get it all done. I'm feeling like the kid is an excuse to relax and enjoy -- not a bad thing at all -- but if so, why won't my friend tell me the truth? Is this a peeing contest ("My life is so much harder than yours")? What's the deal? I've got friends with and without kids and all us child-free folks get the same story and have the same questions.
Tacoma, Wash.

Relax and enjoy. You're funny.

Or you're lying about having friends with kids.

Or you're taking them at their word that they actually have kids, because you haven't personally been in the same room with them.

Internet searches?

I keep wavering between giving you a straight answer and giving my forehead some keyboard. To claim you want to understand, while in the same breath implying that the only logical conclusions are that your mom-friends are either lying or competing with you, is disingenuous indeed.

So, since it's validation you seem to want, the real answer is what you get. In list form. When you have young kids, your typical day is: constant attention, from getting them out of bed, fed, clean, dressed; to keeping them out of harm's way; to answering their coos, cries, questions; to having two arms and carrying one kid, one set of car keys, and supplies for even the quickest trips, including the latest-to-be-declared-essential piece of molded plastic gear; to keeping them from unshelving books at the library; to enforcing rest times; to staying one step ahead of them lest they get too hungry, tired or bored, any one of which produces the kind of checkout-line screaming that gets the checkout line shaking its head.

It's needing 45 minutes to do what takes others 15.

It's constant vigilance, constant touch, constant use of your voice, constant relegation of your needs to the second tier.

It's constant scrutiny and second-guessing from family and friends, well-meaning and otherwise. It's resisting constant temptation to seek short-term relief at everyone's long-term expense.

It's doing all this while concurrently teaching virtually everything -- language, manners, safety, resourcefulness, discipline, curiosity, creativity. Empathy. Everything.

It's also a choice, yes. And a joy. But if you spent all day, every day, with this brand of joy, and then, when you got your first 10 minutes to yourself, wanted to be alone with your thoughts instead of calling a good friend, a good friend wouldn't judge you, complain about you to mutual friends, or marvel how much more productively she uses her time. Either make a sincere effort to understand or keep your snit to yourself.

Thursday, March 05, 2009

A Hershey's bar always soothes me when I'm stressed

weird hershey's bar by jelene

Chocolate and almonds always help to smooth things out.

Toss It Thursday

I stumbled across Smead Organomics after a great post from I'm An Organizing Junkie.

As the "junkie" summarizes in her post (hey, why reinvent the wheel!), Smead Organomics will provide you with organizing solutions for your office based on your specific work style and organizing challenges. You start by answering a few questions and choosing the work style that suits you best out of the following five.

Visually oriented
Detailed oriented
Goal oriented
Team oriented
Task oriented

Using this information Smead will provide you with three solutions and how to instructions that fit your type of profile. I did this and, to organize my projects more effectively, I was recommended to do the following:




Use Colored Interior Folders in FasTab Hanging Pockets

GET IT TOGETHER
-> Keep all project materials in one place so you never waste time searching for information.
-> Use a separate FasTab Hanging Pocket to hold all of the materials for each of your projects.
-> Label the pocket with a Viewables Tab. Keep these project files in a nearby desk drawer.


BREAK IT DOWN
-> Separate project materials into logical parts. Choose a different colored Interior Folder for each category. Use the same colors for similar materials in each project file so finding sections is easy.
-> Print Viewables labels with the project name for the FasTab Hanging Pocket and the Interior Folders used for that project.
-> Arrange the Interior Folders in the FasTab Hanging Pocket in a sequence that follows your workflow for projects.


TRACK IT
-> Monitor your project task work through completion.
-> Create deadlines for each task and track them to a calendar. As you work on the project, pull out only the Interior Folder that contains what you need for the task at hand.
-> Stick to your schedule. As tasks are completed, move the folder that contains materials for the next task to the front of the FasTab Hanging Pocket as an indicator of the next step.




Wednesday, March 04, 2009

Workin Out Wednesday

Last week was a bust. I did go out to dinner on Saturday night with my husband (an all you can eat Chinese buffet!) and we discussed, after acknowledging the irony of the conversation and location, that I wanted to lose weight. I was very impressed at his support of what I was needing and he even suggested that I join Weight Watchers again (I am a lifetime member) if I felt I needed to. This is saying a lot as we are pretty tight $$ wise these days with two young kiddies and me at home.

So, after being pumped up with my hubby's support I decided to start by trying the Weight Watchers tracking thing on my own. If I feel I am not getting anywhere then I will go to meetings.

My week so far ... Sunday I went to the gym (thanks to hubby for helping me get some pump-me-up tunes on my BenQ), I tracked points since Sunday, and I am planning to go to the gym tonight.

Tuesday, March 03, 2009

Liverpool Street Subway Station

Thanks to my Mom for forwarding me this cool video.

This was shot at the Liverpool Street Subway Station in London on January 15, 2009.

Only the dancers knew what was happening; the general public didn't have a clue what was about to unfold.

Watch the first video and imagine that you were there, innocently waiting for your train . . .



Then watch this video to see how they did it.

Let me know if you think it was as awesome as I did.

Toddler Tuesday

Themes of the week were easy when the oldest didn't quite "get it". I would set themes weekly and I would order books and videos from the library and pick them up when they were in. I would have a circle time while the kids ate lunch or while waiting for parents to pick up and read one or two of the books. Now that Ava is going to be 3 this March, I think it is time to ramp up the activities we do for the themes.

Upon brainstorming and Internet searching I have decided to do monthly themes with crafts, stories and activities specifically designated to that theme (thank you Kids soup!). Check out my schedule at my home daycare website to see what we are doing.

March will be The Five Senses
April will be Easter, Shapes, and Colors
May will be Bees and Spring
June will be Frogs and Ponds
July will be ABC Activities
August will be Rain Forest and Jungle
September will be Fire, Fireman and Safety
October will be Halloween
November will be Fall
December will be Christmas and Cookies

Monday, March 02, 2009

Menu Plan Monday


Morning Snack
Crackers
Fruit
Water

Lunch
Leftovers Bread & Butter
Sliced Grapes
2% Milk

Grilled Cheese & Ham Sandwiches
Yogurt Apple Slices
2% Milk

Deli Meat
Cheese
Bagel
Pears
2% Milk

Peanut Butter & Honey Sandwich
Yogurt Applesauce
2% Milk

Chicken Hot Dogs
Green Beans
Banana
2% Milk


Afternoon Snack
Chocolate Graham Crackers
Raisins
Water

Whole Grain English Muffin with Butter & Cinnamon
Water

Yogurt
Pecans
Water

Animal Crackers
Raisins
Water

Home Made Apple Crisp
Water


Dinner
Skillet Curry-Lime Chicken

Sauteed Pan Fish with Warm Avocado Salsa

Roast Garlic Pork Chops

Bang-Bang Taco Soup

Homemade Pizza

Turkey Artichoke Casserole

Crock Mock Beef Bourguignon


For more meal plans, check out I'm an Organizing Junkie.

Sunday, March 01, 2009

They're Back!

The kids are back from a nice mini-vacation at Mama and Papa's (my parents). It was a surprise to all of us as Ava (3 years old) was talking to Mama on Thursday morning and said "Mama come get me". Mama said she had to work and couldn't, so Ava said "well, Papa come get me then!" How could they resist?! So later that afternoon, Mama came and got her and little Travis (1 year old) and hubby and I got a well-deserved break.


On Saturday night we went on a date to a Chinese Buffet. So much for the weight loss efforts! Today, being March 1st, however, I have started tracking my points via Weight Watchers. I am not officially signed up but as I am a lifetime member (or was ...) I believe I have the tools to make it work on my own. And if not, hubby is very supportive that I sign up again. It makes such a huge difference when your spouse supports you without telling you that it would be a good idea if you lost weight.


It was great to spend quality time with my husband and to catch up on sleep, blogs and emails. All this rest, however, has allowed for a sinus cold to creep up on me (sigh). Now that I have stopped nursing Travis I can at least take some medicine if it gets too bad.


And so our week begins ...

Soaring Spirit Sunday

The Catholic season of Lent is upon us. At AmericanCatholic.org they have come up with a day-by-day through lent exercise of fasting from our clutter. I love it and so I am reflecting on the first and second weeks of their theme. Join me, will you?

ASH WEDNESDAY

~ GETTING READY TO CLEAR MY CLUTTER ~

Jl 2:12-18; 2 Cor 5:20—6:2; Mt 6:1-6, 16-18 Today’s readings give me basic instructions for the next 40 days. As a first step to clearing my heart and mind of clutter, I arrange a quiet prayer corner in which to talk to God. I find a suitable place in my home and stock it with a Bible, a notebook, pens (and this Update!). Today, and every day this Lent, I will spend time with God, reading over the Scriptures for the day, listening to what God is saying to me, and writing down what I hear.


THURSDAY: WHAT AM I GAINING—AND LOSING?
Dt 30:15-20; Lk 9:22-25 This culture urges me to do so much. In what ways is the rush and busy-ness of my life not truly necessary, but an effort to win the approval of others—in other words, to “gain the whole world”?

FRIDAY: REACH OUT TO OTHERS
Is 58:1-9a; Mt 9:14-15 Before I can reach out to those in need, I must be able to reach out. I talk to God today about areas of life where I neglect myself and compromise my health. Am I eating the wrong foods? Not getting enough sleep? Constantly stressed? Any of these habits will make me less able to serve God and God’s people.

SATURDAY: BE KIND TO MYSELF
Is 58:9b-14; Lk 5:27-32 The tax collector Levi’s change of heart came about because Jesus showed him kindness and friendship. I talk to God about any changes I should make in my self care in order to do as Jesus did. I ask for God’s help in making these changes in order to be able to do God’s will.





FIRST SUNDAY OF LENT
~ CLEARING MY SURROUNDINGS OF CLUTTER ~
Mt 4:1-11; Mk 1:12-15; Lk 4:1-13 I do not live “by bread alone.” If the only meaning of life was food, clothes or work, how meaningless it would be. Lent is a wonderful time to remind myself that God’s presence is what gives life meaning. I begin Lent by starting a “give away” box and praying about what I have that could be used by someone in need.

MONDAY: BE HOLY AS GOD IS HOLY
Lv 19:1-2, 11-18; Mt 25:31-46 Does clutter and disorganization interfere with my growth in holiness? Today is a good day to begin paring down. I look through my kitchen for five or more items to give away.

TUESDAY: EXPECTING THE KINGDOM?
Is 55:10-11; Mt 6:7-15 Does my home look as though I am expecting and praying for God’s Kingdom? Why or why not? I let go of more clutter by going through bookshelves for five or more books I could donate.

WEDNESDAY: A SIGN OF GOD’S LOVE
Jon 3:1-10; Lk 11:29-32 I can be a sign of God’s love to the world by living more simply and passing on my excess to those in need. Today, I gather five or more blankets, sheets or towels to give away.

THURSDAY: THE FATHER KNOWS MY NEEDS
Est C:12, 14-16, 23-25; Mt 7:7-12 Am I in the habit of asking God to provide for my needs? Today, I look through drawers, on closet shelves and in storage areas for five or more items to donate.

FRIDAY: IF I REPENT, I WILL BE SAVED
Ez 18:21-28; Mt 5:20-26 Like many in this culture, I need to repent of my excess. Today, I search through my clothes for five or more items to give away.

SATURDAY: BE PERFECT AS GOD IS PERFECT
Dt 26:16-19; Mt 5:43-48 I have gathered at least 25 items to donate. How does it feel? Do I feel relief and freedom? Grief? Uncertainty? I trust that I do not need things to be happy. Today, I take my “give away” box to a favorite charity.