Thanks for the fun tag, Carrie!
1. A is for age: 43
2. B is for beer of choice: Well, I'd say I average about 1 beer every 2.5 years. But on those rare occasions, I prefer St. Pauli Girl.
3. C is for career right now: wife, mommy, homeschool teacher, general household labor
4. D is for your dog's name: Baker (he came with the name)
5. E is for essential item you use everyday: my reading glasses
6. F is for favorite TV show at the moment: Jericho
7. G is for favorite game: Trivial Pursuit
8. H is for Home town: McKean, PA (where I grew up)
9. I is for instruments you play: none
10. J is for favorite juice: probably Ruby Red grapefruit juice
11. K is for whose butt you'd like to kick: right now, Baker's (he's on a barking spree)
12. L is for last place you ate: the kitchen table
13. M is for marriage: happily for many years
14. N is for your full name: Debra Anne Stevens
15. O is for overnight hospital stays: Too many to count...pregnancy and I are not a good mix.
16. P is for people you were with today: Rich, Annie, Gray, and Max
17. Q is for quote: Love them. Collect them. Have an enormous 3-ring binder to house them. But am drawing a complete blank at the moment as to any of my favorites. And I'm too lazy to run downstairs to look.
18. R is for Biggest Regret: Starting smoking. Then, when I finally quit, allowing myself to gain so much weight.
19. S is for status: Married. With a big old "happily" attached.
20. T is for time you woke up today: Which time? To tuck Gray in...12:45. To take Gray to the bathroom...1:15. To let Baker out...1:40. To put Max back in bed...2:30ish. To tuck Gray in...3:30. To tuck Gray in...4:20. For good...6:30.
21. U is for underwear you have on now: hot pink with lime green trim (my favorite pair)
22. V is for vegetable you love: cauliflower
23. W is for worst habit: eating too much crap
24. X is for x-rays you've had: foot, teeth, abdominal
25. Y is for yummy food you ate today: a Mint Milano
26. Z is for the zodiac sign: Pisces
Fun stuff. Please play along...and let me know you did!
Saturday, March 31, 2007
looking forward to...
Nothing major going on at our little abode this weekend. But there are a lot of little things that I'm looking forward to...
*Rich is going to grill tonight! (Yes, I'm deviating from my menu plan, but we couldn't pass up on this little blast of spring! Especially since there's snow in the forecast for Wednesday and Thursday.) Burgers from the grill and pizza salad...yum...one of my all-time favorite meals.
Proof that spring really is coming:
*Finishing up Jean's book. Wow. I'm more blown away than ever...not only did she write this book in one month's time (which frankly, is amazing all on its own), but it's really, really good! I have a hard time putting it down!
*If the rain holds off, Rich is going to take the kids on a hike. I am going to stay home and make myself do a layout. Seems funny that I should have to make myself, but I'm hoping once I get started my motivation will kick in.
*Watching last Monday's episode of 24 with Rich tonight. I already saw it, but can one really ever get enough of Jack Bauer?!!
*Going out tomorrow night. We got a babysitter and are heading out to dinner and to do some shopping. This is actually somewhat of a necessity, as we need to get stuff for Easter and Annie's birthday. But it will be fun none-the-less.
Of course, I do need to get some work done, too. General cleaning, laundry (always laundry!), making a NY history test and some other "school" stuff, and hopefully weeding out our dresser. But all in all, I think I've got enough good stuff going on to make it a pleasant weekend.
Hope everyone else enjoys their weekend as well!
*Rich is going to grill tonight! (Yes, I'm deviating from my menu plan, but we couldn't pass up on this little blast of spring! Especially since there's snow in the forecast for Wednesday and Thursday.) Burgers from the grill and pizza salad...yum...one of my all-time favorite meals.
Proof that spring really is coming:
*Finishing up Jean's book. Wow. I'm more blown away than ever...not only did she write this book in one month's time (which frankly, is amazing all on its own), but it's really, really good! I have a hard time putting it down!
*If the rain holds off, Rich is going to take the kids on a hike. I am going to stay home and make myself do a layout. Seems funny that I should have to make myself, but I'm hoping once I get started my motivation will kick in.
*Watching last Monday's episode of 24 with Rich tonight. I already saw it, but can one really ever get enough of Jack Bauer?!!
*Going out tomorrow night. We got a babysitter and are heading out to dinner and to do some shopping. This is actually somewhat of a necessity, as we need to get stuff for Easter and Annie's birthday. But it will be fun none-the-less.
Of course, I do need to get some work done, too. General cleaning, laundry (always laundry!), making a NY history test and some other "school" stuff, and hopefully weeding out our dresser. But all in all, I think I've got enough good stuff going on to make it a pleasant weekend.
Hope everyone else enjoys their weekend as well!
Friday, March 30, 2007
try your luck
O.K., here's a chance a for all of us who answered "never won anything" for our Fridays Feast soup. Actually, of course, even if you have won something before, you should still go check this out...
Over at 5 Minutes for Mom, they are having a contest. To win a Dyson vacuum cleaner. How cool would that be to own, huh? Don't worry...no essays to write or anything like that, just signing up.
I'll race you over there!
Over at 5 Minutes for Mom, they are having a contest. To win a Dyson vacuum cleaner. How cool would that be to own, huh? Don't worry...no essays to write or anything like that, just signing up.
I'll race you over there!
munching again...
Fridays Feast:
Appetizer
What are you proud of?
-My kiddos. (Of course, I'm also sometimes embarrassed by them. Though I'm sure they could say the same of me.) And my husband...he's such a wonderful daddy and such a wonderful teacher.
Soup
What is the best thing you’ve ever won as a prize?
-I honestly cannot think of anything I've ever won for a prize.
Salad
Name something you do that is a waste of time.
-Make lists. Not that all of my lists are a waste of time, by any means. I make many list that are great time-savers and sanity savers. But I also make lists that really have no practical purpose. Kind of an obsession, I suppose.
Main Course
In what year of your life did you change the most?
-2002. The difference between having 2 kiddos and 3 kiddos was just unbelievable. It was a really difficult transition for many reasons.
Dessert
Where is a place you consider to be very tranquil?
-Nowhere in this house!
Appetizer
What are you proud of?
-My kiddos. (Of course, I'm also sometimes embarrassed by them. Though I'm sure they could say the same of me.) And my husband...he's such a wonderful daddy and such a wonderful teacher.
Soup
What is the best thing you’ve ever won as a prize?
-I honestly cannot think of anything I've ever won for a prize.
Salad
Name something you do that is a waste of time.
-Make lists. Not that all of my lists are a waste of time, by any means. I make many list that are great time-savers and sanity savers. But I also make lists that really have no practical purpose. Kind of an obsession, I suppose.
Main Course
In what year of your life did you change the most?
-2002. The difference between having 2 kiddos and 3 kiddos was just unbelievable. It was a really difficult transition for many reasons.
Dessert
Where is a place you consider to be very tranquil?
-Nowhere in this house!
Thursday, March 29, 2007
Thursday Challenge
This week's Thursday Challenge is "SPRING".
Since it has only made it up to 29 degrees here so far this morning, it just isn't feeling like spring. So I opted to steer clear of the seasonal version.
The fellow sitting atop the "spring" is my wonderful father-in-law. The photo was taken last summer, during our vacation. Though we saw a lot of great sites on our trip west, one of our favorite parts was meeting up with Rich's parents in Nebraska. (We, of course, came from NY; they came from PA.) We went to visit the area where my father-in-law grew up. Rich used to visit his grandparents during the summers as a kid. And they would go and play at this playground in the photo.
Since it has only made it up to 29 degrees here so far this morning, it just isn't feeling like spring. So I opted to steer clear of the seasonal version.
The fellow sitting atop the "spring" is my wonderful father-in-law. The photo was taken last summer, during our vacation. Though we saw a lot of great sites on our trip west, one of our favorite parts was meeting up with Rich's parents in Nebraska. (We, of course, came from NY; they came from PA.) We went to visit the area where my father-in-law grew up. Rich used to visit his grandparents during the summers as a kid. And they would go and play at this playground in the photo.
Booking Through Thursday
This week:
Location, Location, Location...
Where do you do most of your reading? Your favorite spot? (Show a picture, if you want to!)
(And yes, I understand that these might not be the same thing--your favorite spot could be the beach, but you do most of your reading at home . . . in which case, tell me about both!)
This is where I do most of my reading. Snuggled up under the covers, with Rich reading beside me, and 9 times out of 10, with Aldo curled up sleeping on my chest.
As far as my favorite spot, that's a little tougher. Anywhere I can get some reading in is okay in my book. But I think my favorite spot is sitting in the shade of our enormous pine tree in the back yard as the kids run around playing.
Location, Location, Location...
Where do you do most of your reading? Your favorite spot? (Show a picture, if you want to!)
(And yes, I understand that these might not be the same thing--your favorite spot could be the beach, but you do most of your reading at home . . . in which case, tell me about both!)
This is where I do most of my reading. Snuggled up under the covers, with Rich reading beside me, and 9 times out of 10, with Aldo curled up sleeping on my chest.
As far as my favorite spot, that's a little tougher. Anywhere I can get some reading in is okay in my book. But I think my favorite spot is sitting in the shade of our enormous pine tree in the back yard as the kids run around playing.
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
Finally!
I feel like I should throw a party. Or maybe go out for a hot fudge sundae with loads of extra peanuts. Or at the very least, sit down and actually enjoy a cup of hot tea. I truly feel a celebration is in order...
I finally finished reading Executive Orders. Whew. Not that I didn't enjoy it...but face it, there's so many books out there that need to be read, I can't afford to spend months on a single book.
In actuality, I do have a reward for myself. I now get to read a book written by Rich's cousin Jean. She wrote it for NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month. The whole concept of NaNoWriMo simply boggles my mind. If you've never heard of it, put simply, these very ambitious people who participate write an entire novel (at least 50,000, about 175 pages) during the month of November. Like I said, it boggles my mind that people can do this. It has to take great determination. And one heck of a lot of work! Anyway, I was able to read the beginning of her novel on-line as she was writing it, but the website only allows you to read so far. I absolutely loved it! And Jean was kind enough to send us a copy when she finished it. I have been saving it as my reward for finishing Executive Orders. Thought I might have to wait even longer to read it, because Rich decided to read after he finished his last book. But sometimes things work out perfectly...Rich finished Jean's book last night. So now it's my turn!
(And by the way, Jean, if by any chance you read this...Rich absolutely loved the book! But I'm sure he'll e-mail to let you know himself.)
So, anyway, here is my review of Executive Orders. But be forewarned...I hate writing book reviews. It is simply a skill I do not possess. (Unlike my darling daughter, Annie, who writes them with comparative ease. Though she only started yesterday, she already finished reading her first book for the Spring Reading Thing challenge. And she wrote her review. The girl puts me to shame, I tell you.)
Executive Orders. By Tom Clancy. Well, as much as I complained about how long it was taking me to conquer this behemoth of a book, I really did enjoy it. I'm not really sure what to say about it...it was very "Clancy-esque". As always with his novels (at least, the ones I've read), there is a lot going on. Big understatement! It takes a while, but the sub-plots eventually start hooking up with one another, forming an overall thoroughly intriguing story. (And I must admit, there were times when I was eerily reminded of events going on the world today!) The final 100 pages (or there-abouts), were tough for me to get through. He tends to go into nauseating detail during "the war". Vehicles, ammunitions, maneuvers, tactics...he definitely shows off his knowledge. I'm sure there are plenty of people out there (my dad and brother, included) who find this terribly fascinating. Probably because they understand what he's talking about. Anyway, I am not one of those people. That part of the book bored me silly. Might have even given up on the whole thing, if I hadn't already invested so much time in reading the first 800 pages. By the very end of the book, I was back to enjoying my reading time, instead of dreading it, though. So, overall I would say I'm glad I read it. But it certainly will never make my "re-read" list.
I finally finished reading Executive Orders. Whew. Not that I didn't enjoy it...but face it, there's so many books out there that need to be read, I can't afford to spend months on a single book.
In actuality, I do have a reward for myself. I now get to read a book written by Rich's cousin Jean. She wrote it for NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month. The whole concept of NaNoWriMo simply boggles my mind. If you've never heard of it, put simply, these very ambitious people who participate write an entire novel (at least 50,000, about 175 pages) during the month of November. Like I said, it boggles my mind that people can do this. It has to take great determination. And one heck of a lot of work! Anyway, I was able to read the beginning of her novel on-line as she was writing it, but the website only allows you to read so far. I absolutely loved it! And Jean was kind enough to send us a copy when she finished it. I have been saving it as my reward for finishing Executive Orders. Thought I might have to wait even longer to read it, because Rich decided to read after he finished his last book. But sometimes things work out perfectly...Rich finished Jean's book last night. So now it's my turn!
(And by the way, Jean, if by any chance you read this...Rich absolutely loved the book! But I'm sure he'll e-mail to let you know himself.)
So, anyway, here is my review of Executive Orders. But be forewarned...I hate writing book reviews. It is simply a skill I do not possess. (Unlike my darling daughter, Annie, who writes them with comparative ease. Though she only started yesterday, she already finished reading her first book for the Spring Reading Thing challenge. And she wrote her review. The girl puts me to shame, I tell you.)
Executive Orders. By Tom Clancy. Well, as much as I complained about how long it was taking me to conquer this behemoth of a book, I really did enjoy it. I'm not really sure what to say about it...it was very "Clancy-esque". As always with his novels (at least, the ones I've read), there is a lot going on. Big understatement! It takes a while, but the sub-plots eventually start hooking up with one another, forming an overall thoroughly intriguing story. (And I must admit, there were times when I was eerily reminded of events going on the world today!) The final 100 pages (or there-abouts), were tough for me to get through. He tends to go into nauseating detail during "the war". Vehicles, ammunitions, maneuvers, tactics...he definitely shows off his knowledge. I'm sure there are plenty of people out there (my dad and brother, included) who find this terribly fascinating. Probably because they understand what he's talking about. Anyway, I am not one of those people. That part of the book bored me silly. Might have even given up on the whole thing, if I hadn't already invested so much time in reading the first 800 pages. By the very end of the book, I was back to enjoying my reading time, instead of dreading it, though. So, overall I would say I'm glad I read it. But it certainly will never make my "re-read" list.
Tuesday, March 27, 2007
you can't keep a bookworm down
I asked Annie to help me pick out the books for the The Once Upon a Time Reading Challenge. After all, they are all her books that I'll be reading. And she's read them all, so she knew which to recommend. We had a great time coming up with my list.
Of course, this whole idea of a reading challenge got her all excited! She asked if she could join in, too. I thought it was fantastic idea. So I told her about the Spring Reading Thing, as well. She is beside herself with excitement!
She wanted me to post her lists on my blog. But I decided it would be better if she just posted her lists, and then her reviews on "her blog".
She is going to put me to complete shame! But I am so grateful for her undeniable love of reading!
Of course, this whole idea of a reading challenge got her all excited! She asked if she could join in, too. I thought it was fantastic idea. So I told her about the Spring Reading Thing, as well. She is beside herself with excitement!
She wanted me to post her lists on my blog. But I decided it would be better if she just posted her lists, and then her reviews on "her blog".
She is going to put me to complete shame! But I am so grateful for her undeniable love of reading!
once upon a time reading challenge
The Once Upon a Time Reading Challenge.
Okay...what on earth am I thinking?!! I do not have time for another book challenge! Especially one that is so out of my realm of normal reading. But that's actually the reason I chose it...to expand my reading experience. Annie has dozens upon dozens of books on her shelves that would work for this challenge (fantasy is definitely one of her favorite genres). And I actually have been wanting to read several of them. So here's my chance, right?
This is running concurrently with the Spring Reading Thing. But, unfortunately, none of my books will overlap.
Anyway, here is my list for the Once Upon a Time Reading Challenge:
1. Inkheart by Cornelia Funke
2. Inkspell by Cornelia Funke
3. The Last of the Really Great Whangdoodles by Julie Andrews Edwards
4. The Prophecy of the Stones by Flavia Bujor
5. The Dark Hills Divide by Patrick Carman
Bonus read: A Midsummer Night's Dream
Oh my, I hope I'm not setting myself up for failure.
10 on Tuesday
Today's 10 on Tuesday is a tough one for me. It might take me all day to come up with a list...but I'll give it a shot.
*10 Movie Characters You Love*
1. Brian, from The Breakfast Club. He just totally cracks me up!
2. Dick Winters from Band of Brothers. Not sure if this one counts, as he's actually a real person.
3. Bridget Fonda's character in Lake Placid. Can't believe I cannot think of her name...seen that movie probably close to 10 times.
4. Tom Cullen and
5. Stu Redman and
6. Nick Andros from The Stand. Seems like cheating to choose 3 characters from the same movie...but I do love them all. We're currently in the midst of watching this movie again. And The Stand is my all time favorite book.
----This is getting very hard now. I'm drawing a blank.
7. Gray Grantham from The Pelican Brief.
----Aaaaaa. This is driving me crazy. My brain is simply not functioning this morning.
8. Jack Ryan from A Clear and Present Danger (and the others, I suppose). Probably just have him on my radar because I'm reading Executive Orders.
9. King from Cars. Yep...I'm really stretching it now, choosing a car, huh?
10. Nala from Lion King. If a car will do, why not a lion, right?
Geez--I sure hope next week's is easier! Of course, I'll bet when I read everyone else's lists, I'll think "Why didn't I think of him?!!" a few dozen times.
*10 Movie Characters You Love*
1. Brian, from The Breakfast Club. He just totally cracks me up!
2. Dick Winters from Band of Brothers. Not sure if this one counts, as he's actually a real person.
3. Bridget Fonda's character in Lake Placid. Can't believe I cannot think of her name...seen that movie probably close to 10 times.
4. Tom Cullen and
5. Stu Redman and
6. Nick Andros from The Stand. Seems like cheating to choose 3 characters from the same movie...but I do love them all. We're currently in the midst of watching this movie again. And The Stand is my all time favorite book.
----This is getting very hard now. I'm drawing a blank.
7. Gray Grantham from The Pelican Brief.
----Aaaaaa. This is driving me crazy. My brain is simply not functioning this morning.
8. Jack Ryan from A Clear and Present Danger (and the others, I suppose). Probably just have him on my radar because I'm reading Executive Orders.
9. King from Cars. Yep...I'm really stretching it now, choosing a car, huh?
10. Nala from Lion King. If a car will do, why not a lion, right?
Geez--I sure hope next week's is easier! Of course, I'll bet when I read everyone else's lists, I'll think "Why didn't I think of him?!!" a few dozen times.
Monday, March 26, 2007
a growing addiction
I have been such a naughty, naughty girl today. I have spent far too much time at this computer. People aren't kidding when they say blogging can be addictive. Mostly I've been reading peoples Menu Plan Mondays and peoples Spring Reading Thing lists. Copied off a few recipes that sound particularly yummy and added several books that sounded good to my "someday" list.
I did get Annie through another school day (well, mostly...we're going to watch a video about the Grand Canyon here in a few minutes) and I did do four loads of laundry. But beyond that, I've accomplished very little. I didn't even cook supper, because Rich got a craving for Taco Bell and called to tell me he would be bringing supper home. Day 1 and I'm already blowing my menu plan. Not that I'm complaining, mind you.
Probably won't accomplish much this evening either. Rich and Annie are going to watch the annual migration of the Spotted, the Blue Spotted, and the Jefferson's salamanders. When conditions are right, they make their annual migration from their hibernaculum to their breeding pond. Rich thinks tonight may be optimal viewing. Annie's going with him, partly for fun, partly for school. (We're going to study amphibians in a few weeks.)
Anyway, I plan to get the boys to bed and then relax. (You know, because I'm so worn out from all the blogging!) I'll have to tape 24 for Rich tonight, but I'm going to watch...in desperate need of a fix. By the way, Stacy, if you're reading this, I wanted to let you know that you've started something. Even our kids call 24 "the Jack Bauer hour of power"...and I'll bet it's not just to our family that it's spread. Will probably work on Annie's hat while I watch, and maybe even try to fit in a few pages worth of reading during commercials.
Okay...it is now time to turn off the computer. Yes. Right this very minute.
I did get Annie through another school day (well, mostly...we're going to watch a video about the Grand Canyon here in a few minutes) and I did do four loads of laundry. But beyond that, I've accomplished very little. I didn't even cook supper, because Rich got a craving for Taco Bell and called to tell me he would be bringing supper home. Day 1 and I'm already blowing my menu plan. Not that I'm complaining, mind you.
Probably won't accomplish much this evening either. Rich and Annie are going to watch the annual migration of the Spotted, the Blue Spotted, and the Jefferson's salamanders. When conditions are right, they make their annual migration from their hibernaculum to their breeding pond. Rich thinks tonight may be optimal viewing. Annie's going with him, partly for fun, partly for school. (We're going to study amphibians in a few weeks.)
Anyway, I plan to get the boys to bed and then relax. (You know, because I'm so worn out from all the blogging!) I'll have to tape 24 for Rich tonight, but I'm going to watch...in desperate need of a fix. By the way, Stacy, if you're reading this, I wanted to let you know that you've started something. Even our kids call 24 "the Jack Bauer hour of power"...and I'll bet it's not just to our family that it's spread. Will probably work on Annie's hat while I watch, and maybe even try to fit in a few pages worth of reading during commercials.
Okay...it is now time to turn off the computer. Yes. Right this very minute.
creating update (week 5)
Never got around to posting this yesterday. Not sure it's even worth the effort. Simply didn't make a lot of time this week...think I'm trying to do too many things at once. Common problem, I'm sure.
A couple times this past week, I tried to scrapbook. Enlarged the photo I want to use, have a basic design in mind, know what I want to say with the layout...but just couldn't get energized to execute.
The one bright note is that I did finish my first "real" knitting project. Wasn't sure I could teach myself, but I think I'm making progress. Annie loves her scarf at any rate. Not sure she'd love this picture though!
I've now started (just barely) on the matching hat. Not sure I quite understand the directions...so we'll see how it turns out.
A couple times this past week, I tried to scrapbook. Enlarged the photo I want to use, have a basic design in mind, know what I want to say with the layout...but just couldn't get energized to execute.
The one bright note is that I did finish my first "real" knitting project. Wasn't sure I could teach myself, but I think I'm making progress. Annie loves her scarf at any rate. Not sure she'd love this picture though!
I've now started (just barely) on the matching hat. Not sure I quite understand the directions...so we'll see how it turns out.
Menu Plan Monday
As I've said before, I am extremely grateful to Stacy for getting me back to menu planning. I used to do it faithfully, but then slacked off for a long time. But it is just amazing how spending that initial time each week to plan makes the rest of the week so much easier. And who doesn't need easier, huh?
A second thank you goes out to Laura. She's the one who hosts Menu Plan Monday. (And her site is so much fun!) I've never "officially" joined in, because I can't figure out how to put her cute little Menu Plan Monday picture thingie up here. But I decided that wasn't a good reason to not join in on the fun.
So, here's what we'll be eating this week...
*red beans & rice/bread
*almost stuffed peppers/corn muffins/applesauce
*easy roast beef sandwiches (new recipe)/cole slaw/chips
*salsa pasta/Italian bread/fruit
*Parmesan pork chops/small red potatoes/green beans/peanut butter date muffins
*chicken sandwiches/fries
*Arizona slop/tortilla chips/red grape salad
Some of these are held-over from last week...a few things threw a wrench into last week's plans.
A second thank you goes out to Laura. She's the one who hosts Menu Plan Monday. (And her site is so much fun!) I've never "officially" joined in, because I can't figure out how to put her cute little Menu Plan Monday picture thingie up here. But I decided that wasn't a good reason to not join in on the fun.
So, here's what we'll be eating this week...
*red beans & rice/bread
*almost stuffed peppers/corn muffins/applesauce
*easy roast beef sandwiches (new recipe)/cole slaw/chips
*salsa pasta/Italian bread/fruit
*Parmesan pork chops/small red potatoes/green beans/peanut butter date muffins
*chicken sandwiches/fries
*Arizona slop/tortilla chips/red grape salad
Some of these are held-over from last week...a few things threw a wrench into last week's plans.
Sunday, March 25, 2007
Saturday round-up
*Max started his Soccer Tots class. We were a bit worried...he's nervous about starting new things, the class had actually started three weeks ago so the other kids would already be a bit more comfortable with it all, and as much as he keeps telling us that he wants to play soccer, when we told him we signed him up for this, he started bawling and saying he didn't want to do it. But all turned out well. He was nervous, and even cried at one point. But he really did have fun, and joined in on every activity and game. And he actually seems to have some innate talent, too.
*While Rich and Max were at the soccer class, we had a candy hunt. Annie, Gray, and a neighborhood friend of Annie's asked if I would hide candy all around the yard for them to find. I told them I didn't have any wrapped candy, so they all went off and raided their stashes. They gave me this big bag they managed to gather up, and I proceeded to hide it all over our front yard. They had an absolute ball searching it out and then trading what they found. What an easy way to keep them amused for an hour...and it was all with candy they already owned anyway!
*Managed to get a little bit of work done for the coming school week. Still have quite a bit to do today though. Anyone have an ecology test I could borrow?
*Went to the Lamberton Conservatory. All of us, even the boys, thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. It's small, but very nice. The boys, who originally moaned and whined about the idea of going and looking at a bunch of plants, actually requested to go through a second time...and we did. Took a lot of photos, but haven't loaded them to the computer yet, so I'll have to wait until later to post a few. (This was actually a field trip for Annie...she was looking for examples of plants that would grow in various biomes.)
*Our basketball watching came to a bitter end, with Memphis's loss to Ohio State. Oh well. Usually those last few minutes of a game are so exciting, but in that game, they were simply depressing.
*Rich and I watched a little more of The Stand last night. While watching, I finished up Annie's scarf. Yeah!
*While Rich and Max were at the soccer class, we had a candy hunt. Annie, Gray, and a neighborhood friend of Annie's asked if I would hide candy all around the yard for them to find. I told them I didn't have any wrapped candy, so they all went off and raided their stashes. They gave me this big bag they managed to gather up, and I proceeded to hide it all over our front yard. They had an absolute ball searching it out and then trading what they found. What an easy way to keep them amused for an hour...and it was all with candy they already owned anyway!
*Managed to get a little bit of work done for the coming school week. Still have quite a bit to do today though. Anyone have an ecology test I could borrow?
*Went to the Lamberton Conservatory. All of us, even the boys, thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. It's small, but very nice. The boys, who originally moaned and whined about the idea of going and looking at a bunch of plants, actually requested to go through a second time...and we did. Took a lot of photos, but haven't loaded them to the computer yet, so I'll have to wait until later to post a few. (This was actually a field trip for Annie...she was looking for examples of plants that would grow in various biomes.)
*Our basketball watching came to a bitter end, with Memphis's loss to Ohio State. Oh well. Usually those last few minutes of a game are so exciting, but in that game, they were simply depressing.
*Rich and I watched a little more of The Stand last night. While watching, I finished up Annie's scarf. Yeah!
Friday, March 23, 2007
little bits of this and that
*First let me say, I have no right to complain (zero, zilch, nada). I am not a basketball fan. Certainly not the NBA, and frankly, not of college ball either. So like I said no right to complain. Yet, for some reason, the last 2 seasons when Memphis has made it to the Sweet Sixteen, we have gotten really excited around here. (That personal connection, I guess. Having lived there for 4 years. It's where Rich got his PhD. Spent lots of time on the campus.) So anyway, we are really fired up to watch the game last night. And what happens? Well, of course, they don't show it here. I know, I know--no right to complain. But still we were mighty bummed! We did watch the end of the Kansas/SIU game, mostly in hopes that they would switch to the Memphis game after it ended. And hooray, they did...so we got to see the last 6 minutes. And frankly, those last minutes are the most exciting anyway, right? Anyway...way to go, Memphis! And good luck!
*I'm still really excited about the Spring Reading Thing! It has me all energized to get a pile of reading done. In fact, I've been wishing ever since I posted my list yesterday that I'd made it longer. So, last night, after those 6 minutes of the Memphis game, I was all ready to put a big dent in the last 100 pages of Executive Orders. But I'm sad to say, that didn't really happen. The book has really bogged down for me. A war has begun, and all of Clancy's excrutiating detail about vehicles and equipment and maneuvers is simply boring me to tears! I stuck it out for as long as I could keep my eyes open, but didn't make all that much progress. Oh well.
*Just a couple of goofy things that I've been told this morning:
--"I want a toothbrush that plays rock 'n roll in my mouth." (Max) Don't tell me...there probably is such a thing.
--"I could go to school without any underwear and no one would even know." (Gray)
*Gray is going to buy his lunch at school today! Hooray! This is quite a rare event. And frankly, I should not be happy about it. It's so much more expensive than packing his lunch. But for some reason, I hate packing lunches. (Should have put that on this week's 10 on Tuesday.) Don't ask me why...it's not like it's a tough job or even all that time-consuming. I mean, how hard is it to throw together a peanut butter and jelly sandwich (the only kind he'll eat at school, though he'll eat other kinds at home), add some fruit, and some fig newtons or the equivalent, and zip it all into his Pokemon lunchbox (a wonderful thrift store find), right? And yet for some reason, it's just one of those jobs that I despise doing.
*Max just asked me to wrap some of his toys so he could pretend it's his birthday. Maybe I'll even do it while he's in preschool today...easy way to make one little boy very happy. But anyway, that got me thinking about Annie's birthday again. I have got to get busy on that front! I haven't done anything to get ready yet. Nor made any Easter preparations. Which this year is the same day as Annie's birthday, further complicating matters. Since she's homeschooled, it's tough to get out there and shop for her, without her in tow. Of course, the bulk of her present will probably be a big Barnes&Noble gift card...that will make for an immensely happy young girl!
*I'm still really excited about the Spring Reading Thing! It has me all energized to get a pile of reading done. In fact, I've been wishing ever since I posted my list yesterday that I'd made it longer. So, last night, after those 6 minutes of the Memphis game, I was all ready to put a big dent in the last 100 pages of Executive Orders. But I'm sad to say, that didn't really happen. The book has really bogged down for me. A war has begun, and all of Clancy's excrutiating detail about vehicles and equipment and maneuvers is simply boring me to tears! I stuck it out for as long as I could keep my eyes open, but didn't make all that much progress. Oh well.
*Just a couple of goofy things that I've been told this morning:
--"I want a toothbrush that plays rock 'n roll in my mouth." (Max) Don't tell me...there probably is such a thing.
--"I could go to school without any underwear and no one would even know." (Gray)
*Gray is going to buy his lunch at school today! Hooray! This is quite a rare event. And frankly, I should not be happy about it. It's so much more expensive than packing his lunch. But for some reason, I hate packing lunches. (Should have put that on this week's 10 on Tuesday.) Don't ask me why...it's not like it's a tough job or even all that time-consuming. I mean, how hard is it to throw together a peanut butter and jelly sandwich (the only kind he'll eat at school, though he'll eat other kinds at home), add some fruit, and some fig newtons or the equivalent, and zip it all into his Pokemon lunchbox (a wonderful thrift store find), right? And yet for some reason, it's just one of those jobs that I despise doing.
*Max just asked me to wrap some of his toys so he could pretend it's his birthday. Maybe I'll even do it while he's in preschool today...easy way to make one little boy very happy. But anyway, that got me thinking about Annie's birthday again. I have got to get busy on that front! I haven't done anything to get ready yet. Nor made any Easter preparations. Which this year is the same day as Annie's birthday, further complicating matters. Since she's homeschooled, it's tough to get out there and shop for her, without her in tow. Of course, the bulk of her present will probably be a big Barnes&Noble gift card...that will make for an immensely happy young girl!
Thursday, March 22, 2007
Booking Through Thursday
Forgot all about Booking through Thursday until I hit Stacy's place.
Booking Through Thursday:
1.Short Stories? Or full-length novels?
--Definitely novels. Don't read many short stories on my own. But I've been doing a short stories unit with Annie the past 2 quarters of homeschooling, so I've ended up reading several lately.
2. And, what's your favorite source for short stories? (You know, if you read them.)
--Many of the ones we've read for school have come from Stories and Poems for Extremely Intelligent Children of All Ages selected by Harold Bloom. Wonderful, varied selection.
Booking Through Thursday:
1.Short Stories? Or full-length novels?
--Definitely novels. Don't read many short stories on my own. But I've been doing a short stories unit with Annie the past 2 quarters of homeschooling, so I've ended up reading several lately.
2. And, what's your favorite source for short stories? (You know, if you read them.)
--Many of the ones we've read for school have come from Stories and Poems for Extremely Intelligent Children of All Ages selected by Harold Bloom. Wonderful, varied selection.
Spring Reading Thing
So excited about what I read at Gail's this morning! Yep, just giddy! She is participating in the Spring Reading Thing at Callapidder Days. Sounds like such fun that I just had to join in myself...and hopefully it will give the incentive I need to make some reading time for myself.
In general, you pick the books that you would like to read during this spring and make a list. March 21-June 21. Please check out the link above for all the particulars and to see what everyone else is reading!
So, here's my list:
1. Executive Orders by Tom Clancy
(been reading this forever!)
2. Call After Midnight AND Under the Knife by Tess Gerritsen (this is actually 2 books in 1, but I figured since I was almost done with Executive Orders I would include it)
3. Hunting Season by Nevada Barr
4. The Wright 3 by Blue Balliett
5. Before I Say Good-Bye by Mary Higgins Clark
Books #1, 2, and 5 are books others have lent me, so I really want to get them done. Book #3 is actually mine, but a friend lent me two other books by Nevada Barr that follow this one. I just like to read them in order, so I need to read this one so I can move on to hers. And #4, I just really want to read. (Probably should have included the ones I know I'll have to be reading for homeschooling, but that didn't seem like as much fun for some reason.) Anyway, that's my list.
And please check out Spring Reading Thing!
In general, you pick the books that you would like to read during this spring and make a list. March 21-June 21. Please check out the link above for all the particulars and to see what everyone else is reading!
So, here's my list:
1. Executive Orders by Tom Clancy
(been reading this forever!)
2. Call After Midnight AND Under the Knife by Tess Gerritsen (this is actually 2 books in 1, but I figured since I was almost done with Executive Orders I would include it)
3. Hunting Season by Nevada Barr
4. The Wright 3 by Blue Balliett
5. Before I Say Good-Bye by Mary Higgins Clark
Books #1, 2, and 5 are books others have lent me, so I really want to get them done. Book #3 is actually mine, but a friend lent me two other books by Nevada Barr that follow this one. I just like to read them in order, so I need to read this one so I can move on to hers. And #4, I just really want to read. (Probably should have included the ones I know I'll have to be reading for homeschooling, but that didn't seem like as much fun for some reason.) Anyway, that's my list.
And please check out Spring Reading Thing!
Wednesday, March 21, 2007
one book down...
Decided that I'm going to go back to keeping a list of "books read". I used to do this. In fact, I used to keep a notebook that had a section for each of us (Rich, Annie, and I, that is...the boys weren't reading then). For each book we read, we listed the title, the author, the date finished, and a rating. But like so many things, I let it go by the wayside because of becoming so bogged down in the whole homeschooling thing. Annie keeps her own reading log now, in which she even writes a short review of each book (a big job considering how many books she reads). And I've decided that I'm going to go back to keeping my own list. Why? I don't know...just for fun, I guess.
I found this neat site called Library Thing. It's a site where people "display" their own libraries. Some people have all the books they own listed, some simply list what they've read. I plan to do the latter. You can write comments about the books on your list and read reviews by other readers. You can get suggestions based on the books you like. Lots of other stuff, too. Just a fun site.
Anyway, I finished a book this morning. (Wish I knew how to put those cool little pictures of books on here like everyone else has. But after spending way more time than I should have playing around, I still couldn't figure out how to do it. Maybe I'll fiddle around again sometime later. So for now, no cute little pictures.) The book is Kira-Kira, by Cynthia Kadohata, and it is an absolute delight. Yes, it's children's literature. But I thoroughly enjoyed it. The book is told from the perspective of Katie, a young Japanese-American girl in the 1950s. She completely stole my heart. The book made me laugh out loud, and the book had me in tears...numerous times for each. A very touching book.
I found this neat site called Library Thing. It's a site where people "display" their own libraries. Some people have all the books they own listed, some simply list what they've read. I plan to do the latter. You can write comments about the books on your list and read reviews by other readers. You can get suggestions based on the books you like. Lots of other stuff, too. Just a fun site.
Anyway, I finished a book this morning. (Wish I knew how to put those cool little pictures of books on here like everyone else has. But after spending way more time than I should have playing around, I still couldn't figure out how to do it. Maybe I'll fiddle around again sometime later. So for now, no cute little pictures.) The book is Kira-Kira, by Cynthia Kadohata, and it is an absolute delight. Yes, it's children's literature. But I thoroughly enjoyed it. The book is told from the perspective of Katie, a young Japanese-American girl in the 1950s. She completely stole my heart. The book made me laugh out loud, and the book had me in tears...numerous times for each. A very touching book.
Tuesday, March 20, 2007
tagged
Just been tagged by Amy. (Amy, it was sweet of you to include me, but I'm afraid I'm going to be a disappointment.)
The mission is to "list 7 songs you're really into at the moment". My problem is that I'm totally out of touch with the current music scene (I tend to listen almost exclusively to NPR on the radio). Not that I don't listen to music, but I tend to "live in the past" for the most part. Hmmm...I'm getting old, aren't I? But I will do my best...these are the songs I've made an effort to hear lately.
1. Good As She Could Be (John Hiatt)
2. Something to Believe In (Poison)
3. Far Away (Nickelback)
4. Fall Down (Toad the Wet Sprocket)
5. American Girl (Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers)
6. Your Body Is A Wonderland (John Mayer)
7. Livin' On a Prayer (Bon Jovi)
Please play along if you'd like!
The mission is to "list 7 songs you're really into at the moment". My problem is that I'm totally out of touch with the current music scene (I tend to listen almost exclusively to NPR on the radio). Not that I don't listen to music, but I tend to "live in the past" for the most part. Hmmm...I'm getting old, aren't I? But I will do my best...these are the songs I've made an effort to hear lately.
1. Good As She Could Be (John Hiatt)
2. Something to Believe In (Poison)
3. Far Away (Nickelback)
4. Fall Down (Toad the Wet Sprocket)
5. American Girl (Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers)
6. Your Body Is A Wonderland (John Mayer)
7. Livin' On a Prayer (Bon Jovi)
Please play along if you'd like!
10 on Tuesday
This week's 10 on Tuesday...
***10 Things You Hate Doing***
1. dusting (been over this one before!)
2. going to the dentist
3. driving (especially in cities or in areas totally unfamiliar to me)
4. cleaning the shower
5. arguing
6. answering the phone
7. rushing
8. remaking the beds after washing the bedding
9. swimming
10. doing nothing (can't stand the feeling that I'm not accomplishing something)
I just realized how thankful I should be. I had a really hard time coming up with this list. I thought of plenty of things I don't particularly love to do, but it was tough coming up with things I truly hate. So I guess that makes me lucky.
***10 Things You Hate Doing***
1. dusting (been over this one before!)
2. going to the dentist
3. driving (especially in cities or in areas totally unfamiliar to me)
4. cleaning the shower
5. arguing
6. answering the phone
7. rushing
8. remaking the beds after washing the bedding
9. swimming
10. doing nothing (can't stand the feeling that I'm not accomplishing something)
I just realized how thankful I should be. I had a really hard time coming up with this list. I thought of plenty of things I don't particularly love to do, but it was tough coming up with things I truly hate. So I guess that makes me lucky.
Monday, March 19, 2007
in my lifetime...
Found this over at Kelli's. I was a little reluctant to play myself...I hate to admit just how boring my life is. But it was too fun to pass up.
Below is a list of Life Events. Please post this on your blog, making BOLD the things you have done.
01. Bought everyone in the bar a drink
02. Swam with wild dolphins
03. Climbed a mountain
04. Taken a Ferrari for a test drive
05. Been inside the Great Pyramid
06. Held a tarantula
07. Taken a candlelit bath with someone
08. Said “I love you” and meant it
09. Hugged a tree
10. Bungee jumped
11. Visited Paris
12. Watched a lightning storm at sea
13. Stayed up all night long and saw the sun rise
14. Seen the Northern Lights
15. Gone to a huge sports game
16. Walked the stairs to the top of the leaning Tower of Pisa.
17. Grown and eaten your own vegetables
18. Touched an iceberg
19. Slept under the stars
20. Changed a baby’s diaper
21. Taken a trip in a hot air balloon
22. Watched a meteor shower
23. Gotten drunk on champagne
24. Given more than you can afford to charity
25. Looked up at the night sky through a telescope
26. Had an uncontrollable giggling fit at the worst possible moment
27. Had a food fight
28. Bet on a winning horse
29. Asked out a stranger
30. Had a snowball fight
31. Screamed as loudly as you possibly can
32. Held a lamb
33. Seen a total eclipse
34. Ridden a roller coaster
35. Hit a home run
36. Danced like a fool and not cared who was looking
37. Adopted an accent for an entire day
38. Actually felt happy about your life, even for just a moment
39. Had two hard drives for your computer
40. Visited all 50 states
41. Taken care of someone who was drunk
42. Had amazing friends
43. Danced with a stranger in a foreign country
44. Watched wild whales
45. Stolen a sign
46. Backpacked in Europe
47. Taken a road-trip
48. Gone rock climbing (not technically with all the gear and whatnot, but for our honeymoon we hiked a bit of the Appalachian Trail and at one part we came to this rock cliff...I was NOT happy about having to climb it, but it turned out to be kind of fun)
49. Midnight walk on the beach
50. Gone sky diving
51. Visited Ireland
52. Been heartbroken longer than you were actually in love
53. In a restaurant, sat at a stranger’s table and had a meal with them
54. Visited Japan
55. Milked a cow
56. Alphabetized your CDs (though they're not currently alphabetized...I'm trying to let go of some of my "anal" tendencies)
57. Pretended to be a superhero
58. Sung karaoke (no, but we did play for open-mike night at a bar)
59. Lounged around in bed all day (ahhh, those were the days...pre-parenthood Sundays where we'd lounge and watch football all day on Sundays)
60. Played touch football
61. Gone scuba diving
62. Kissed in the rain
63. Played in the mud
64. Played in the rain
65. Gone to a drive-in theater
66. Visited the Great Wall of China
67. Started a business (well, sort of...I sold crafts...had to have a tax number and report as self-employed on my taxes)
68. Fallen in love and not had your heart broken
69. Toured an ancient site
70. Taken a martial arts class
71. Played Dungeons & Dragons for more than 6 hours straight
72. Gotten married
73. Been in a movie
74. Crashed a party
75. Gotten divorced
76. Gone without food for 5 days
77. Made cookies from scratch
78. Won first prize in a costume contest
79. Ridden a gondola in Venice
80. Gotten a tattoo
81. Rafted the Snake River
82. Been on television news programs as an “expert”
83. Got flowers for no reason
85. Been to Las Vegas
86. Recorded music (only "self-recording")
87. Eaten shark
88. Kissed on the first date
89. Gone to Thailand
90. Bought a house
91. Been in a combat zone
92. Buried one/both of your parents
93. Been on a cruise ship
94. Spoken more than one language fluently well enough to have a decent conversation
95. Performed in Rocky Horror
96. Raised (raising) children (child)
97. Followed your favorite band/singer on tour
99. Taken an exotic bicycle tour in a foreign country
100. Picked up and moved to another city to just start over
101. Walked the Golden Gate Bridge
102. Sang loudly in the car, and didn’t stop when you knew someone was looking
103. Had plastic surgery
104. Survived an accident that you shouldn’t have survived
105. Wrote articles for a large publication
106. Lost over 100 pounds
107. Held someone while they were having a flashback
108. Piloted an airplane
109. Touched a stingray
110. Broken someone’s heart
111. Helped an animal give birth
112. Won money on a T.V. game show
113. Broken a bone
114. Gone on an African photo safari
115. Had a facial part pierced other than your ears
116. Fired a rifle, shotgun, or pistol
117. Eaten mushrooms that were gathered in the wild
118. Ridden a horse
119. Had major surgery (not sure if any qualify as "major" but I've had plenty of surgeries and they tend to seem major at the time)
120. Had a snake as a pet (was more like my husband's pet)
121. Hiked to the bottom of the Grand Canyon
122. Slept for more than 30 hours over the course of 48 hours
123. Visited more foreign countries than U.S. states
124. Visited all 7 continents
125. Taken a canoe trip that lasted more than 2 days
126. Eaten kangaroo meat
127. Eaten sushi
128. Had your picture in the newspaper
129. Changed someone’s mind about something you care deeply about
130. Gone back to school
131. Parasailed
132. Touched a cockroach
133. Eaten fried green tomatoes
134. Read The Iliad
135. Selected one “important” author who you missed in school, and read
136. Killed and prepared an animal for eating (not on purpose--hit a deer with the car...and then Dad made me help with the "preparing")
137. Skipped all your school reunions
138. Communicated with someone without sharing a common spoken language
139. Been elected to public office
140. Written your own computer language
141. Thought to yourself that you’re living your dream
142. Had to put someone you love into hospice care
143. Built your own PC from parts
144. Sold your own artwork to someone who didn’t know you
145. Had a booth at a street fair
146. Dyed your hair
147. Been a DJ
148. Shaved your head
149. Caused a car accident
150. Saved someone’s life
151. Finished a marathon
Below is a list of Life Events. Please post this on your blog, making BOLD the things you have done.
01. Bought everyone in the bar a drink
02. Swam with wild dolphins
03. Climbed a mountain
04. Taken a Ferrari for a test drive
05. Been inside the Great Pyramid
06. Held a tarantula
07. Taken a candlelit bath with someone
08. Said “I love you” and meant it
09. Hugged a tree
10. Bungee jumped
11. Visited Paris
12. Watched a lightning storm at sea
13. Stayed up all night long and saw the sun rise
14. Seen the Northern Lights
15. Gone to a huge sports game
16. Walked the stairs to the top of the leaning Tower of Pisa.
17. Grown and eaten your own vegetables
18. Touched an iceberg
19. Slept under the stars
20. Changed a baby’s diaper
21. Taken a trip in a hot air balloon
22. Watched a meteor shower
23. Gotten drunk on champagne
24. Given more than you can afford to charity
25. Looked up at the night sky through a telescope
26. Had an uncontrollable giggling fit at the worst possible moment
27. Had a food fight
28. Bet on a winning horse
29. Asked out a stranger
30. Had a snowball fight
31. Screamed as loudly as you possibly can
32. Held a lamb
33. Seen a total eclipse
34. Ridden a roller coaster
35. Hit a home run
36. Danced like a fool and not cared who was looking
37. Adopted an accent for an entire day
38. Actually felt happy about your life, even for just a moment
39. Had two hard drives for your computer
40. Visited all 50 states
41. Taken care of someone who was drunk
42. Had amazing friends
43. Danced with a stranger in a foreign country
44. Watched wild whales
45. Stolen a sign
46. Backpacked in Europe
47. Taken a road-trip
48. Gone rock climbing (not technically with all the gear and whatnot, but for our honeymoon we hiked a bit of the Appalachian Trail and at one part we came to this rock cliff...I was NOT happy about having to climb it, but it turned out to be kind of fun)
49. Midnight walk on the beach
50. Gone sky diving
51. Visited Ireland
52. Been heartbroken longer than you were actually in love
53. In a restaurant, sat at a stranger’s table and had a meal with them
54. Visited Japan
55. Milked a cow
56. Alphabetized your CDs (though they're not currently alphabetized...I'm trying to let go of some of my "anal" tendencies)
57. Pretended to be a superhero
58. Sung karaoke (no, but we did play for open-mike night at a bar)
59. Lounged around in bed all day (ahhh, those were the days...pre-parenthood Sundays where we'd lounge and watch football all day on Sundays)
60. Played touch football
61. Gone scuba diving
62. Kissed in the rain
63. Played in the mud
64. Played in the rain
65. Gone to a drive-in theater
66. Visited the Great Wall of China
67. Started a business (well, sort of...I sold crafts...had to have a tax number and report as self-employed on my taxes)
68. Fallen in love and not had your heart broken
69. Toured an ancient site
70. Taken a martial arts class
71. Played Dungeons & Dragons for more than 6 hours straight
72. Gotten married
73. Been in a movie
74. Crashed a party
75. Gotten divorced
76. Gone without food for 5 days
77. Made cookies from scratch
78. Won first prize in a costume contest
79. Ridden a gondola in Venice
80. Gotten a tattoo
81. Rafted the Snake River
82. Been on television news programs as an “expert”
83. Got flowers for no reason
85. Been to Las Vegas
86. Recorded music (only "self-recording")
87. Eaten shark
88. Kissed on the first date
89. Gone to Thailand
90. Bought a house
91. Been in a combat zone
92. Buried one/both of your parents
93. Been on a cruise ship
94. Spoken more than one language fluently well enough to have a decent conversation
95. Performed in Rocky Horror
96. Raised (raising) children (child)
97. Followed your favorite band/singer on tour
99. Taken an exotic bicycle tour in a foreign country
100. Picked up and moved to another city to just start over
101. Walked the Golden Gate Bridge
102. Sang loudly in the car, and didn’t stop when you knew someone was looking
103. Had plastic surgery
104. Survived an accident that you shouldn’t have survived
105. Wrote articles for a large publication
106. Lost over 100 pounds
107. Held someone while they were having a flashback
108. Piloted an airplane
109. Touched a stingray
110. Broken someone’s heart
111. Helped an animal give birth
112. Won money on a T.V. game show
113. Broken a bone
114. Gone on an African photo safari
115. Had a facial part pierced other than your ears
116. Fired a rifle, shotgun, or pistol
117. Eaten mushrooms that were gathered in the wild
118. Ridden a horse
119. Had major surgery (not sure if any qualify as "major" but I've had plenty of surgeries and they tend to seem major at the time)
120. Had a snake as a pet (was more like my husband's pet)
121. Hiked to the bottom of the Grand Canyon
122. Slept for more than 30 hours over the course of 48 hours
123. Visited more foreign countries than U.S. states
124. Visited all 7 continents
125. Taken a canoe trip that lasted more than 2 days
126. Eaten kangaroo meat
127. Eaten sushi
128. Had your picture in the newspaper
129. Changed someone’s mind about something you care deeply about
130. Gone back to school
131. Parasailed
132. Touched a cockroach
133. Eaten fried green tomatoes
134. Read The Iliad
135. Selected one “important” author who you missed in school, and read
136. Killed and prepared an animal for eating (not on purpose--hit a deer with the car...and then Dad made me help with the "preparing")
137. Skipped all your school reunions
138. Communicated with someone without sharing a common spoken language
139. Been elected to public office
140. Written your own computer language
141. Thought to yourself that you’re living your dream
142. Had to put someone you love into hospice care
143. Built your own PC from parts
144. Sold your own artwork to someone who didn’t know you
145. Had a booth at a street fair
146. Dyed your hair
147. Been a DJ
148. Shaved your head
149. Caused a car accident
150. Saved someone’s life
151. Finished a marathon
Sunday, March 18, 2007
creating update (week 4)
Geez, and I thought last week was bad. Didn't get any scrapbooking in at all. Did a little knitting, but not as much as I'd hoped. And worst of all, I totally forgot to do my writing at 100 Words for 2 whole days...which means I blew it for March. (Not sure if I'll make another go at it for April or not.)
Anyway, here is what little I did accomplish...
Made the scarf for Annie's Webkinz. Such a dumb little thing, but they love them.
Worked steadily away on my first "real" project...a scarf for Annie. I'm now about halfway to completion.
And may the coming week be more creative.
Anyway, here is what little I did accomplish...
Made the scarf for Annie's Webkinz. Such a dumb little thing, but they love them.
Worked steadily away on my first "real" project...a scarf for Annie. I'm now about halfway to completion.
And may the coming week be more creative.
what we'll be eating this week
One of the things I accomplished yesterday was making up a menu for the week. Nothing fancy on slate, but I am hoping to try a couple new recipes. (Actually had been planning on trying another one of Stacy's recipes this week, but then forgot about it when I actually sat down to do my plan. Oh well, maybe next week.)
*lasagna, Italian bread
*red beans and rice (we have some left in the freezer from the last time Rich made it...it's one of his specialties)
*almost stuffed peppers, corn muffins, applesauce
*turkey meatballs, pierogies, cranberry bread
*Parmesan pork chops (new recipe), red potatoes, green beans, peanut butter date muffins
*salsa pasta, garlic bread, fruit salad
*cheesy potatoes and ham, broccoli, apple cinnamon muffins (new recipe)
**double layer pumpkin pie...dessert some night
***walnut cinnamon coffeecake...was supposed to make this for breakfast two weekends ago, but still haven't gotten around to it
*lasagna, Italian bread
*red beans and rice (we have some left in the freezer from the last time Rich made it...it's one of his specialties)
*almost stuffed peppers, corn muffins, applesauce
*turkey meatballs, pierogies, cranberry bread
*Parmesan pork chops (new recipe), red potatoes, green beans, peanut butter date muffins
*salsa pasta, garlic bread, fruit salad
*cheesy potatoes and ham, broccoli, apple cinnamon muffins (new recipe)
**double layer pumpkin pie...dessert some night
***walnut cinnamon coffeecake...was supposed to make this for breakfast two weekends ago, but still haven't gotten around to it
on a roll?
I sure hope so. Yesterday was quite a productive day for me. Got the week's menu planned and the grocery list made. Did five loads of laundry. Set up a new blog, which will be incredibly boring but hopefully will keep me motivated. Weeded out our files, but that's a post for the new blog. And best of all, I finally got around to doing our taxes! Both the federal and the state. What a total relief to have that done! Had to hide out in the basement for 3 1/2 hours to do it, but at least it's done.
Of course, some things did suffer with all that productivity. My creative update will be pathetically short this week. And the kids had frozen waffles for breakfast, frozen pizza for lunch, and cereal for supper (another check in the "bad mommy" column, I suppose). And I got nothing ready for the upcoming school week (guess how I'll be spending my Sunday). But still, THE TAXES ARE DONE!
Of course, some things did suffer with all that productivity. My creative update will be pathetically short this week. And the kids had frozen waffles for breakfast, frozen pizza for lunch, and cereal for supper (another check in the "bad mommy" column, I suppose). And I got nothing ready for the upcoming school week (guess how I'll be spending my Sunday). But still, THE TAXES ARE DONE!
Friday, March 16, 2007
In one way or another...
all kids are absolutely incredible! And yesterday was Absolutely Incredible Kids Day.
To celebrate this year, we took the kids out to eat to a buffet they all love. And during supper, Rich and I took turns telling each of them some of the things we thought makes them each incredible...
Annie:
*your insatiable thirst for knowledge
*your love of other cultures
*the way you find the good in others
*your moral conscience (for example, your refusal to eat meat
Gray:
*your abundant creativity
*your gifts of observation
*your always outstanding behavior in school
*your meticulousness
Max:
*your overwhelming sweetness
*your gracefulness
*your helpfulness
*your silliness
After supper, we took them to the mall and let them each choose a stuffed animal. I tried to get a photo of the three of them with their new buddies...but they were being absolutely incredibly uncooperative kids.
To celebrate this year, we took the kids out to eat to a buffet they all love. And during supper, Rich and I took turns telling each of them some of the things we thought makes them each incredible...
Annie:
*your insatiable thirst for knowledge
*your love of other cultures
*the way you find the good in others
*your moral conscience (for example, your refusal to eat meat
Gray:
*your abundant creativity
*your gifts of observation
*your always outstanding behavior in school
*your meticulousness
Max:
*your overwhelming sweetness
*your gracefulness
*your helpfulness
*your silliness
After supper, we took them to the mall and let them each choose a stuffed animal. I tried to get a photo of the three of them with their new buddies...but they were being absolutely incredibly uncooperative kids.
Thursday, March 15, 2007
a mini "a-ha" moment
I have long been bemoaning the fact that I just can't seem to finish the book I'm reading. For one thing, it's simply a behemoth. But much more importantly, because I spend sooooo much time reading things for homeschooling purposes that I don't have time for my own recreational reading. I'm constantly having to read non-fiction sources to learn more about the things we're covering for school. In the last several months, I've read about everything from tectonic plates to the lost colony of Roanoke to diseases of the skeletal system. Don't get me wrong, I do enjoy a lot of this reading...but it's not quite the same as losing oneself in a good novel.
Last night was "Let Them Shine Night" at Gray's school. They also have a book fair. And of course, we let the kids each pick out two books for themselves (because Rich and I are such big suckers for books ourselves). While looking around, Annie came across The Wright 3 by Blue Balliett. She immediately brought it over to me, because she knew how badly I wanted to read it. And that's when it hit me. Homeschooling Annie has dictated much of my reading as of late, but that really isn't all that bad a thing. We've read and discussed (sort of our own mini book club, I suppose) several children's lit books as part of her schooling. Books I never would have read otherwise. And yet, several of them, I have absolutely adored! Like Esperanza Rising by Pam Munoz Ryan and Holes by Louis Sachar and Kira-Kira by Cynthia Kadohata (which we're currently reading) and Chasing Vermeer by Blue Balliett. I'd been so wrapped up in thinking that they didn't count because they were "kids' books". How dumb is that?!! I totally, completely, undeniably enjoyed them. And that's what really matters, right? So, I guess I've done a bit more "reading" lately than I've given myself credit for.
And yes, I definitely bought The Wright 3 for myself. I may even let Annie read it when I'm done.
Last night was "Let Them Shine Night" at Gray's school. They also have a book fair. And of course, we let the kids each pick out two books for themselves (because Rich and I are such big suckers for books ourselves). While looking around, Annie came across The Wright 3 by Blue Balliett. She immediately brought it over to me, because she knew how badly I wanted to read it. And that's when it hit me. Homeschooling Annie has dictated much of my reading as of late, but that really isn't all that bad a thing. We've read and discussed (sort of our own mini book club, I suppose) several children's lit books as part of her schooling. Books I never would have read otherwise. And yet, several of them, I have absolutely adored! Like Esperanza Rising by Pam Munoz Ryan and Holes by Louis Sachar and Kira-Kira by Cynthia Kadohata (which we're currently reading) and Chasing Vermeer by Blue Balliett. I'd been so wrapped up in thinking that they didn't count because they were "kids' books". How dumb is that?!! I totally, completely, undeniably enjoyed them. And that's what really matters, right? So, I guess I've done a bit more "reading" lately than I've given myself credit for.
And yes, I definitely bought The Wright 3 for myself. I may even let Annie read it when I'm done.
Booking Through Thursday
Booking Through Thursday:
1. Speaking of writing in books, what about writing the entire thing? Do you write? Aspire to write? Dream about writing?
--I really enjoy writing. Snippets of this and that. Poetry. But never a whole book. Rich often encourages me to try my hand at writing a mystery thriller. But I know I'll never do it.
2. If you do write, do you do it for yourself, or because you hope to be published? (Or because you ARE published?)
--Definitely for myself! Adding the idea of being published to the mix would feel too much like pressure, and I'm afraid that would take all the fun out of writing for me. (Besides, I know my limitations!)
1. Speaking of writing in books, what about writing the entire thing? Do you write? Aspire to write? Dream about writing?
--I really enjoy writing. Snippets of this and that. Poetry. But never a whole book. Rich often encourages me to try my hand at writing a mystery thriller. But I know I'll never do it.
2. If you do write, do you do it for yourself, or because you hope to be published? (Or because you ARE published?)
--Definitely for myself! Adding the idea of being published to the mix would feel too much like pressure, and I'm afraid that would take all the fun out of writing for me. (Besides, I know my limitations!)
Thursday Challenge
This week's Thursday Challenge:
"WATER" (Waterfall, Ice, River, Swimming, Ocean, Pond, Sprinkler, Puddles,...)
I'm cheating again. I just couldn't decide which photo to choose...go the semi-scenic route or go the fun-loving kid route? And then I couldn't decide between the fun-loving kids. Hence, I'm posting 3 pictures. Oh well.
"WATER" (Waterfall, Ice, River, Swimming, Ocean, Pond, Sprinkler, Puddles,...)
I'm cheating again. I just couldn't decide which photo to choose...go the semi-scenic route or go the fun-loving kid route? And then I couldn't decide between the fun-loving kids. Hence, I'm posting 3 pictures. Oh well.
March is such a tease...
Appears that first little tease of spring is over. After 5 whole days with temperatures over freezing! In fact, yesterday we hit the upper 50s. The bulk of the snow melted, to be replaced with the spring mud. Mud, mud, mud.
But it is now snowing again. Nice big, pretty flakes. This is a "storm" coming from the west. Supposedly tomorrow's snow will be coming from the south, one of those up the Atlantic coast storms, which we'll be on the western edge of. And then, to round things out, Saturday's snow will be lake-effect snow from the north.
Spring will arrive though, sooner or later. Annie and I were very excited to see two beautiful robins in the backyard yesterday. And that first flock of geese we saw the other day was just the tip of the iceberg. We've seen hundreds upon hundreds since.
Change is definitely underway.
But it is now snowing again. Nice big, pretty flakes. This is a "storm" coming from the west. Supposedly tomorrow's snow will be coming from the south, one of those up the Atlantic coast storms, which we'll be on the western edge of. And then, to round things out, Saturday's snow will be lake-effect snow from the north.
Spring will arrive though, sooner or later. Annie and I were very excited to see two beautiful robins in the backyard yesterday. And that first flock of geese we saw the other day was just the tip of the iceberg. We've seen hundreds upon hundreds since.
Change is definitely underway.
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
a happy little surprise
This is what I found when I went down to throw in the day's first load of laundry...
I admit it, I love flowers. And there's just something extra-special about a cactus flower. Just usually catches me off-guard, I guess.
*NOTE: Not that it matters, but I have been trying to upload this photo and post this since yesterday. Finally had to switch browsers (apparently everyone using Safari is having trouble uploading pictures). Very proud of myself for figuring out how to switch browsers (my computer-related ignorance is legendary). But who knows what new problems an idiot like me will now encounter having to adapt to something new. And I hope Rich is okay with the new browser. (At least I was respectful enough to call and ask him if he had a problem with me giving it a try.)
I admit it, I love flowers. And there's just something extra-special about a cactus flower. Just usually catches me off-guard, I guess.
*NOTE: Not that it matters, but I have been trying to upload this photo and post this since yesterday. Finally had to switch browsers (apparently everyone using Safari is having trouble uploading pictures). Very proud of myself for figuring out how to switch browsers (my computer-related ignorance is legendary). But who knows what new problems an idiot like me will now encounter having to adapt to something new. And I hope Rich is okay with the new browser. (At least I was respectful enough to call and ask him if he had a problem with me giving it a try.)
Just Curious...
I'm a list-maker. Of the obsessive variety. I make lists for everything.
There's the daily to-dos. The weekly to-dos. The seasonal to-dos. Items from the seasonal and weekly eventually work their way down to the daily.
There's shopping lists. The always running grocery list (which is augmented with meal fixins before the actual trip to the grocery store). The upcoming holiday/birthday gifts. The always running Target list.
There's lists of cards that need to be made. Layouts I want to remember to do. Ideas for gifts to make.
There's to gargantuan list of tasks I need to do for homeschooling.
Before we go on a trip...my first step is to make a list of all the lists I need to make (medicines/toiletries, clothes by person, food, etc.)
There's a seemingly never-ending supply of oddball lists. Like the list of ruby and forest green dishes I still need. Like the list of books, etc. I might want to buy for next year's homeschooling. Like the list things to look for next time we hit the thrift store.
I have a stack of approximately 10 tablets, going back as many years, that contain the list of every Christmas present we bought for each person. (The supposed purpose of this is to not repeat gifts, but I rarely ever look at them.)
Sometimes I wonder how much more I could actually accomplish if I spent less time making lists and instead used that time to do the things I'm putting on the lists. But I don't think my mind could possibly keep track of all the "necessaries", let alone the "extras".
So anyway, just curious...
...are you a list maker? Of the normal or of the obsessive variety?
There's the daily to-dos. The weekly to-dos. The seasonal to-dos. Items from the seasonal and weekly eventually work their way down to the daily.
There's shopping lists. The always running grocery list (which is augmented with meal fixins before the actual trip to the grocery store). The upcoming holiday/birthday gifts. The always running Target list.
There's lists of cards that need to be made. Layouts I want to remember to do. Ideas for gifts to make.
There's to gargantuan list of tasks I need to do for homeschooling.
Before we go on a trip...my first step is to make a list of all the lists I need to make (medicines/toiletries, clothes by person, food, etc.)
There's a seemingly never-ending supply of oddball lists. Like the list of ruby and forest green dishes I still need. Like the list of books, etc. I might want to buy for next year's homeschooling. Like the list things to look for next time we hit the thrift store.
I have a stack of approximately 10 tablets, going back as many years, that contain the list of every Christmas present we bought for each person. (The supposed purpose of this is to not repeat gifts, but I rarely ever look at them.)
Sometimes I wonder how much more I could actually accomplish if I spent less time making lists and instead used that time to do the things I'm putting on the lists. But I don't think my mind could possibly keep track of all the "necessaries", let alone the "extras".
So anyway, just curious...
...are you a list maker? Of the normal or of the obsessive variety?
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
a brand spanking new meme
Just stumbled across a totally new meme. And this week's was so easy to answer that I just had to play.
Tina's Tuesdays for March 13, 2007:
*Topic: Children
1.Do you have children? If not do you want them?
--Yes, I am extremely blessed.
2.How many do you have or would like?
--I have 3 sweet (well, most of the time) little munchkins living here with us. One sweet munchkin who died before he was born.
3. What are the names?
--Annie, Gray, and Maxwell. And Casey.
Tina's Tuesdays for March 13, 2007:
*Topic: Children
1.Do you have children? If not do you want them?
--Yes, I am extremely blessed.
2.How many do you have or would like?
--I have 3 sweet (well, most of the time) little munchkins living here with us. One sweet munchkin who died before he was born.
3. What are the names?
--Annie, Gray, and Maxwell. And Casey.
it's Tuesday, here's 10
This week's Ten on Tuesday is a tough one if you ask me. My list would have to be considered a definite "slice in time" sort of thing. If you asked me this tomorrow, my answers might be totally different. But right now, at 10:41am on March 13, 2007...
***10 Favorite Albums***
1. Hints Allegations & Things Left Unsaid (Collective Soul)
2. Walk On (John Hiatt)
3. Biograph (Bob Dylan)
4. Full Moon Fever (Tom Petty)
5. Fly (Dixie Chicks)
6. Little Creatures (Talking Heads)
7. Room for Squares (John Mayer)
8. American Beauty (The Grateful Dead)
9. The Ghosts That Haunt Me (Crash Test Dummies)
10. Forgiven, Not Forgotten (The Corrs)
***10 Favorite Albums***
1. Hints Allegations & Things Left Unsaid (Collective Soul)
2. Walk On (John Hiatt)
3. Biograph (Bob Dylan)
4. Full Moon Fever (Tom Petty)
5. Fly (Dixie Chicks)
6. Little Creatures (Talking Heads)
7. Room for Squares (John Mayer)
8. American Beauty (The Grateful Dead)
9. The Ghosts That Haunt Me (Crash Test Dummies)
10. Forgiven, Not Forgotten (The Corrs)
those first signs of spring...
Have been trying not to get too worked up over the arrival of spring. It's too early for that here. But now it's getting a little tougher. This will be the 4th day in a row with temperatures above freezing...in fact, today we may hit the 50s. And this has allowed for lots of melting (our sump pump has been working overtime!). There are now little patches of grass showing through here and there! It's been a looooong time since we've seen grass. And then, on top of that, this morning while waiting for the bus with Gray, I saw a flock of geese heading back north! Not the first flock to fly by, I'm sure, but the first I've seen and heard. Yep, spring will be here...sooner or later. (Probably later...it is supposed to snow again later this week.)
Monday, March 12, 2007
not quite a balanced diet
I was just cleaning off the kitchen table. A never-ending job, if ever there was one. Anyway, as I was sorting all the various and sundry papers, I came across this...
It is the grocery list Gray wrote before Rich headed to the store Saturday morning. I guess I should be thankful that he at least asked for oranges, huh?
It is the grocery list Gray wrote before Rich headed to the store Saturday morning. I guess I should be thankful that he at least asked for oranges, huh?
creating update (week 3)
Running a day behind here. Oh well. It's not like there's much to report. Was a terribly hectic week.
Did make Gray's Webkin his scarf. Photo came out incredibly funky...the scarf in reality, is simply red. Silly little project, but they've made for good practice. And they've thrilled the daylights out of the kids...love it when something so simple can bring them such joy! If all goes well, I guess next week I'll be posting Annie's.
I also began a slightly more substantial knitting project. (Slightly being the key word there.) Finally feeling like I might actually get the hang of this whole knitting thing...well, at least the basics. Forgot to take a photo though. Figure I'll post it next week, when I've made a little more progress.
I've also managed to keep up with my writing for 100 Words. But it hasn't been easy. The hardest part isn't getting the word count to exactly 100 words, it's simply coming up with something to write about each day. I'm happy with some of my entries, and some of them, frankly, just suck. But I'm happy with myself that I've kept up with the challenge thus far.
And finally, just one scrapbook layout. The third and final spread for Day 2 of our Road Trip 2006 album.
And that sums up a less-than-stellar week of creating. May the coming week be more fruitful!
Did make Gray's Webkin his scarf. Photo came out incredibly funky...the scarf in reality, is simply red. Silly little project, but they've made for good practice. And they've thrilled the daylights out of the kids...love it when something so simple can bring them such joy! If all goes well, I guess next week I'll be posting Annie's.
I also began a slightly more substantial knitting project. (Slightly being the key word there.) Finally feeling like I might actually get the hang of this whole knitting thing...well, at least the basics. Forgot to take a photo though. Figure I'll post it next week, when I've made a little more progress.
I've also managed to keep up with my writing for 100 Words. But it hasn't been easy. The hardest part isn't getting the word count to exactly 100 words, it's simply coming up with something to write about each day. I'm happy with some of my entries, and some of them, frankly, just suck. But I'm happy with myself that I've kept up with the challenge thus far.
And finally, just one scrapbook layout. The third and final spread for Day 2 of our Road Trip 2006 album.
And that sums up a less-than-stellar week of creating. May the coming week be more fruitful!
Saturday, March 10, 2007
an explanation, perhaps?
I think I may have made a discovery. A possible explanation for the sluggish behavior. It may be my mind's way of telling me I'm simply not fit for duty today...
Rich, with Max in tow, ran to the grocery store to pick up a few things (if you can call 8 bags worth "a few things"). Anyway, upon their arrival home, I made quick work of those 8 bags, getting everything put away. No big deal. A few minutes later, I went to get my water bottle out of the fridge. And sitting there, right on the top shelf, is a bottle of monster truck bubble bath. (Max obviously successfully conned Rich into this purchase.) And no, that is not where I normally keep it.
Of course, in reality, I cannot use this incident to explain anything. Since this type of thing is a daily occurrence, and has no correlation whatsoever to my level of productivity.
Rich, with Max in tow, ran to the grocery store to pick up a few things (if you can call 8 bags worth "a few things"). Anyway, upon their arrival home, I made quick work of those 8 bags, getting everything put away. No big deal. A few minutes later, I went to get my water bottle out of the fridge. And sitting there, right on the top shelf, is a bottle of monster truck bubble bath. (Max obviously successfully conned Rich into this purchase.) And no, that is not where I normally keep it.
Of course, in reality, I cannot use this incident to explain anything. Since this type of thing is a daily occurrence, and has no correlation whatsoever to my level of productivity.
any spare mojo out there?
I seem to have awoken in slug mode today. Just can't get moving.
Slept in until 6:10. Already a bad start. And after letting Baker out to do his business and getting him his breakfast, I plopped down on the couch with a cup of coffee and my book. I read for nearly one whole glorious hour! Miraculously the boys slept in, and even when they did awake, they chose to play quietly together in their room. Such a totally bizarre start to a day!
When the munchkins did emerge from their rooms, I fed them Pop Tarts and milk for breakfast. I know, I know...bad, bad Mommy! But as I said, I just seem to be lacking any ambition today.
And my productivity levels have risen very little since then. I managed to make the bed. And strip Max's bedding and throw it in the washer (more Pull-Up failure). Brought a load of clothes up that I left in the dryer last night and got them folded. I did shower (hey, can I get some bonus points for shaving my legs?). Oh, and I looked around on the Internet to see if I could figure out how to fix the washer's spin cycle issues (afraid that was unsuccessful though, and we've resigned ourselves to the fact that we're just going to have to shell out the bucks for a new one).
So, here it is at 9:45am, and I have nothing to show for it. (Unless, of course, you count silky smooth legs.)
Oh well, I'm behind no matter how hard I work. Don't suppose a little laziness now and then will hurt, right?
Slept in until 6:10. Already a bad start. And after letting Baker out to do his business and getting him his breakfast, I plopped down on the couch with a cup of coffee and my book. I read for nearly one whole glorious hour! Miraculously the boys slept in, and even when they did awake, they chose to play quietly together in their room. Such a totally bizarre start to a day!
When the munchkins did emerge from their rooms, I fed them Pop Tarts and milk for breakfast. I know, I know...bad, bad Mommy! But as I said, I just seem to be lacking any ambition today.
And my productivity levels have risen very little since then. I managed to make the bed. And strip Max's bedding and throw it in the washer (more Pull-Up failure). Brought a load of clothes up that I left in the dryer last night and got them folded. I did shower (hey, can I get some bonus points for shaving my legs?). Oh, and I looked around on the Internet to see if I could figure out how to fix the washer's spin cycle issues (afraid that was unsuccessful though, and we've resigned ourselves to the fact that we're just going to have to shell out the bucks for a new one).
So, here it is at 9:45am, and I have nothing to show for it. (Unless, of course, you count silky smooth legs.)
Oh well, I'm behind no matter how hard I work. Don't suppose a little laziness now and then will hurt, right?
Friday, March 09, 2007
and what would you like on that?
This week's Friday 5
The one about condiments...
1. What do you like on a hot dog?
--I know many people find it disgusting (my husband included), but I like ketchup and mustard on my hot dogs. Either that or mustard and sauerkraut.
2. What do you like on a hamburger?
--Ketchup, mustard, tomato, and lettuce.
3. What do you like on a baked potato?
--Salt. And lots of butter.
4. What do you like on a slice of toast?
--Sugar-free blackberry jelly.
5. What do you like in a cup of coffee or tea?
--In coffee, I LOVE Fat-Free French Vanilla Coffeemate, but I try not to use it too much. In tea, a teaspoonful of Splenda.
Geez...now I'm hungry.
The one about condiments...
1. What do you like on a hot dog?
--I know many people find it disgusting (my husband included), but I like ketchup and mustard on my hot dogs. Either that or mustard and sauerkraut.
2. What do you like on a hamburger?
--Ketchup, mustard, tomato, and lettuce.
3. What do you like on a baked potato?
--Salt. And lots of butter.
4. What do you like on a slice of toast?
--Sugar-free blackberry jelly.
5. What do you like in a cup of coffee or tea?
--In coffee, I LOVE Fat-Free French Vanilla Coffeemate, but I try not to use it too much. In tea, a teaspoonful of Splenda.
Geez...now I'm hungry.
my little reading machine
As I was scanning through iphoto looking for a picture I wanted to enlarge, I happened to notice this photo of Annie. It's not a great photo...slightly blurry, with a very distracting background. But I love this photo, nonetheless. It is quintessential Annie...nose in a book and lost to the rest of the world.
I have to admit, there are times when I envy her. I wish I had as much time for reading as she does. And I wish I could read as fast as she does, as well. She reads a lot faster than I do, and yet has amazing comprehension and recall. (Her 3rd grade teacher told me on numerous occasions how she was convinced that Annie had a photographic memory. She doesn't, but she is amazing in the way she can recount the smallest details of everything she reads.)
Each quarter of this school year, Annie has kept a reading log. She records each book she reads, the author, and a brief description of the book, along with her feelings about the book. So far, this quarter (6 1/2 weeks in), she has read 31 books. Some of the books have been for school (like one about the Dust Bowl and one about the Blues), but most are of her own choosing. And you can never guess what she might choose to read next. She loves the Royal Diaries books, and has read a few of those this quarter. And she also loves fantasy, hence books like The Sea of Trolls and The Oaken Throne. And then again, she loves reading non-fiction of her own choosing, too. She read a book about Anatasia and a book about the Salem witch trials. And she's currently reading In Search of Nature by E.O. Wilson, 2-time Pulitzer award winning biologist. (Yep, my 9-year-old daughter is a much more well-rounded reader than I am!)
I think it's safe to say that Annie will be a book lover for life.
Thursday, March 08, 2007
books, books, wonderful books
Decided to finally join in the fun with Booking Through Thursday...
Lending Library:
*Do you lend your books to other people? If so, any restrictions?
--There's a general sequence of events when I finish a book.
1. If Rich wants to read it, it goes to his pile.
2. After Rich has read it (or if he doesn't want to), I pass the book along to Mom.
3. After she reads it, she sometimes passes it along to my aunt.
4. The book is returned to me, and I then send it along to my friend Kim.
*Do you borrow books from other people? (Friends or family—I'm not talking about the public library)
--I never ask to borrow books, but several people pass books along to me if they think I might enjoy them. In fact, on my nightstand at this very moment, is a book from my brother, a book from my mom, and 4 books from my friend Kim.
*And, most importantly—do the books you lend/borrow get returned to their rightful owners??
--I ALWAYS return a book to its proper owner! (Unless, they say they don't want it back, that is.) And as for the ones I lend, my mom and my aunt always return them. And Kim always used to, but I've recently told her to not bother mailing them back. I usually just gave them to the library for their book sale anyway. But if it was a special book that I wanted to keep for some reason, she would definitely return it.
Lending Library:
*Do you lend your books to other people? If so, any restrictions?
--There's a general sequence of events when I finish a book.
1. If Rich wants to read it, it goes to his pile.
2. After Rich has read it (or if he doesn't want to), I pass the book along to Mom.
3. After she reads it, she sometimes passes it along to my aunt.
4. The book is returned to me, and I then send it along to my friend Kim.
*Do you borrow books from other people? (Friends or family—I'm not talking about the public library)
--I never ask to borrow books, but several people pass books along to me if they think I might enjoy them. In fact, on my nightstand at this very moment, is a book from my brother, a book from my mom, and 4 books from my friend Kim.
*And, most importantly—do the books you lend/borrow get returned to their rightful owners??
--I ALWAYS return a book to its proper owner! (Unless, they say they don't want it back, that is.) And as for the ones I lend, my mom and my aunt always return them. And Kim always used to, but I've recently told her to not bother mailing them back. I usually just gave them to the library for their book sale anyway. But if it was a special book that I wanted to keep for some reason, she would definitely return it.
Tuesday, March 06, 2007
this or that?
Just some meme-ing fun with Tuesday Twosome:
Are you more likely to…
*Give advice or take advice?
--Take advice. Definitely! I try to never, ever give unsolicited advice! I have many relatives (who shall remain nameless), who seem to relish in giving unsolicited advice...and who can't seem to drop it if you choose not to take their advice. (I honestly don't mind advice offered with good intentions. I do, however, find it hard to stomach people who think "their way" is the only way.)
*Interrupt a conversation or have your conversation interrupted?
--In a house with 3 children, definitely have a conversation interrupted. Despite a multitude of efforts to stop this behavior.
*Get lost while driving or be the one that always has the right directions?
--Be the one with the right directions. But this is simply because I despise driving and avoid it whenever possible. So I'm generally the navigator, while Rich is the captain.
*Be a trendsetter or be a follower?
--Neither. I'm not really a big follower. Don't feel the need to follow the trends. But nor am I a trendsetter...in fact, that thought is downright laughable!
*Look at a situation as “half empty” or “half full”?
--I make an effort to be a "half-full" kind of person, but don't always succeed.
Are you more likely to…
*Give advice or take advice?
--Take advice. Definitely! I try to never, ever give unsolicited advice! I have many relatives (who shall remain nameless), who seem to relish in giving unsolicited advice...and who can't seem to drop it if you choose not to take their advice. (I honestly don't mind advice offered with good intentions. I do, however, find it hard to stomach people who think "their way" is the only way.)
*Interrupt a conversation or have your conversation interrupted?
--In a house with 3 children, definitely have a conversation interrupted. Despite a multitude of efforts to stop this behavior.
*Get lost while driving or be the one that always has the right directions?
--Be the one with the right directions. But this is simply because I despise driving and avoid it whenever possible. So I'm generally the navigator, while Rich is the captain.
*Be a trendsetter or be a follower?
--Neither. I'm not really a big follower. Don't feel the need to follow the trends. But nor am I a trendsetter...in fact, that thought is downright laughable!
*Look at a situation as “half empty” or “half full”?
--I make an effort to be a "half-full" kind of person, but don't always succeed.
is it too late to teach this old dog new tricks?
This week's 10 on Tuesday asks...
**10 Things You'd Like to Learn How to Do**
1. to say "no"
2. to knit (working on that one)
3. to play the piano (why did I have to quit those lessons as a kid?!!)
4. to put fun stuff on my blog
5. to make the perfect lemon bars (I'm on a seemingly never ending quest for "the" recipe)
6. to program the VCR
7. to use all the features on our camera
8. to speak Spanish (there was a time I at least had the basics down, but about all I can say anymore is "Where is the bathroom?" and "The chair is yellow.")
9. to stop multi-tasking
10. to more consistently live in the now
That was a fun list to put together. Ought to consider it a list of goals.
**10 Things You'd Like to Learn How to Do**
1. to say "no"
2. to knit (working on that one)
3. to play the piano (why did I have to quit those lessons as a kid?!!)
4. to put fun stuff on my blog
5. to make the perfect lemon bars (I'm on a seemingly never ending quest for "the" recipe)
6. to program the VCR
7. to use all the features on our camera
8. to speak Spanish (there was a time I at least had the basics down, but about all I can say anymore is "Where is the bathroom?" and "The chair is yellow.")
9. to stop multi-tasking
10. to more consistently live in the now
That was a fun list to put together. Ought to consider it a list of goals.
keeping the old fingers crossed
Another cold snap has arrived. It's below zero, with wind chills ranging between 20 and 30 below. Last time we had a snap like this, our district didn't close the schools. And because of some new fuel additive required by the state starting this past fall, about 20% of the buses had problems. Leaving kids standing out there at bus stops for 30 minutes or more in those wind chills. I imagine if that happens again, the superintendent is going to have a mass of irate parents to contend with. Especially since so many of the area schools have closed. And it really doesn't help that these winds are causing white-out conditions. That started yesterday. Just taking Max to preschool was a nightmare. Even Max noticed..."Mommy, where's the road?"
So anyway, we're keeping our fingers crossed that all buses will be running without problems. And just think, another 6 weeks and the majority of our winter problems for the season should be safely behind us.
So anyway, we're keeping our fingers crossed that all buses will be running without problems. And just think, another 6 weeks and the majority of our winter problems for the season should be safely behind us.
Sunday, March 04, 2007
creating update (week 2)
A pretty slow week compared to last. But that was to be expected...after all, it was back to school.
Completed 2 spreads for our Road Trip 2006 album. Not much creativity involved though...just following the plan I came up with for the album. So it was just a matter of execution. Almost finished the third and final spread for Day 2 as well...I needed to enlarge a photo, but discovered we were out of photo paper. Oh well.
Continued practicing the knitting. Was getting a little bored with knitting and ripping out and knitting and ripping out, but I didn't feel ready to start any real project. Then Max asked me to make his Webkin kitty a scarf. Perfect. As simple as it gets, yet sort of productive as well. Now Gray and Annie want scarves for their Webkins, too. Which is fine with me...more practice. Maybe by then, I'll be ready for something a bit more challenging (or at least a bit larger).
Did want to say a big "Thank you!" to Dawn for hooking me up this a great knitting website. Haven't had a great deal of time to fully explore it, but it seems absolutely fantastic. Did learn a new way to cast on there, which I like much better than the way I learned from the booklet I'd been using.
And on a new front, I started working on a batch at 100 Words. It's a neat little writing site. To participate, you must write 100 words each and every day for a particular month. I am definitely not a writer, but it's a fun challenge to help me spread my wings a bit.
And aside from a birthday card I threw together so last minute that I didn't have time to scan it, that about sums up my creating endeavors for the week.
Completed 2 spreads for our Road Trip 2006 album. Not much creativity involved though...just following the plan I came up with for the album. So it was just a matter of execution. Almost finished the third and final spread for Day 2 as well...I needed to enlarge a photo, but discovered we were out of photo paper. Oh well.
Continued practicing the knitting. Was getting a little bored with knitting and ripping out and knitting and ripping out, but I didn't feel ready to start any real project. Then Max asked me to make his Webkin kitty a scarf. Perfect. As simple as it gets, yet sort of productive as well. Now Gray and Annie want scarves for their Webkins, too. Which is fine with me...more practice. Maybe by then, I'll be ready for something a bit more challenging (or at least a bit larger).
Did want to say a big "Thank you!" to Dawn for hooking me up this a great knitting website. Haven't had a great deal of time to fully explore it, but it seems absolutely fantastic. Did learn a new way to cast on there, which I like much better than the way I learned from the booklet I'd been using.
And on a new front, I started working on a batch at 100 Words. It's a neat little writing site. To participate, you must write 100 words each and every day for a particular month. I am definitely not a writer, but it's a fun challenge to help me spread my wings a bit.
And aside from a birthday card I threw together so last minute that I didn't have time to scan it, that about sums up my creating endeavors for the week.
Just Curious...
I am simply boggled by the amount of dirty laundry this family generates. It seems that with the addition of each child the amount of laundry to be done each week increased exponentially. I remember a time in the distant past when I did laundry once a week. Those were the days! Now it is a daily chore. During the summer, I average 11-12 loads of laundry and during the winter, about 14. Granted, we are a family of 5. But still.
Just curious...
...how many loads of laundry do you do per week for how many people? And how often do you have to do it?
Just curious...
...how many loads of laundry do you do per week for how many people? And how often do you have to do it?
Friday, March 02, 2007
a cool new meme from a cool new blog
New to me, that is. Stumbled upon Kelli's blog this evening. Really enjoyed it and will make it a regular stop. She had this really cool book meme there. Looks like so much fun I've got to try it. I actually had to change it a bit (because of my well-known technological ignorance), so for the original instructions please visit Kelli's place.
Look at the list of books below.
*Type "READ" beside the ones you've read.
*Type "WANT TO" beside the ones you'd like to read.
*Leave blank the ones that you aren't interested in.
*Type "AGAIN AND AGAIN" beside the ones you could read again and again.
If you are reading this, tag you're it! Let me know if you do it...
1.The Da Vinci Code (Dan Brown)--WANT TO
2.Pride and Prejudice (Jane Austen)
3.To Kill A Mockingbird (Harper Lee)--AGAIN AND AGAIN
4. Gone With The Wind (Margaret Mitchell)
5. The Lord of the Rings: Return of the King (Tolkien)
6. The Lord of the Rings: Fellowship of the Ring (Tolkien)
7. The Lord of the Rings: Two Towers (Tolkien)
8. Anne of Green Gables (L.M. Montgomery)
9. Outlander (Diana Gabaldon)
10.A Fine Balance (Rohinton Mistry)
11.Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (Rowling)--WANT TO
12.Angels and Demons (Dan Brown)
13.Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (Rowling)--WANT TO
14. A Prayer for Owen Meany (John Irving)
15. Memoirs of a Geisha (Arthur Golden)
16.Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone (Rowling)--READ
17. Fall on Your Knees(Ann-Marie MacDonald)
18. The Stand (Stephen King)--AGAIN AND AGAIN
19. Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban(Rowling)--WANT TO
20. Jane Eyre (Charlotte Bronte)
21. The Hobbit (Tolkien)
22. The Catcher in the Rye (J.D. Salinger)--READ
23. Little Women (Louisa May Alcott)
24. The Lovely Bones (Alice Sebold)--WANT TO
25. Life of Pi (Yann Martel)
26. The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy (Douglas Adams)
27. Wuthering Heights (Emily Bronte)--READ
28. The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe (C. S. Lewis)
29. East of Eden (John Steinbeck)
30. Tuesdays with Morrie(Mitch Albom)
31. Dune (Frank Herbert)
32. The Notebook (Nicholas Sparks)
33. Atlas Shrugged (Ayn Rand)
34. 1984 (Orwell)--READ
35. The Mists of Avalon (Marion Zimmer Bradley)
36. The Pillars of the Earth (Ken Follett)
37. The Power of One (Bryce Courtenay)
38. I Know This Much is True(Wally Lamb)
39. The Red Tent (Anita Diamant)
40. The Alchemist (Paulo Coelho)
41. The Clan of the Cave Bear (Jean M. Auel)--READ
42. The Kite Runner (Khaled Hosseini)
43. Confessions of a Shopaholic (Sophie Kinsella)
44. The Five People You Meet In Heaven (Mitch Albom)--WANT TO
45. Bible
46. Anna Karenina (Tolstoy)
47. The Count of Monte Cristo (Alexandre Dumas)
48. Angela’s Ashes (Frank McCourt)
49. The Grapes of Wrath (John Steinbeck)
50. She’s Come Undone (Wally Lamb)
51. The Poisonwood Bible (Barbara Kingsolver)
52. A Tale of Two Cities (Dickens)
53. Ender’s Game (Orson Scott Card)
54. Great Expectations (Dickens)
55. The Great Gatsby (Fitzgerald)--READ
56. The Stone Angel (Margaret Laurence)
57. Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (Rowling)--READ
58. The Thorn Birds (Colleen McCullough)
59. The Handmaid’s Tale (Margaret Atwood)
60. The Time Traveller’s Wife (Audrew Niffenegger)--WANT TO
61. Crime and Punishment (Fyodor Dostoyevsky)
62. The Fountainhead (Ayn Rand)
63. War and Peace (Tolsoy)
64. Interview With The Vampire (Anne Rice)
65. Fifth Business (Robertson Davis)
66. One Hundred Years Of Solitude (Gabriel Garcia Marquez)
67. The Sisterhood of the Travelling Pants (Ann Brashares)
68. Catch-22 (Joseph Heller)
69. Les Miserables (Hugo)
70. The Little Prince (Antoine de Saint-Exupery)
71. Bridget Jones’ Diary (Fielding)
72. Love in the Time of Cholera (Marquez)
73. Shogun (James Clavell)
74. The English Patient (Michael Ondaatje)
75. The Secret Garden (Frances Hodgson Burnett)
76. The Summer Tree (Guy Gavriel Kay)
77. A Tree Grows in Brooklyn (Betty Smith)
78. The World According To Garp (John Irving)--READ
79. The Diviners (Margaret Laurence)
80. Charlotte’s Web (E.B. White)--READ
81. Not Wanted On The Voyage (Timothy Findley)
82. Of Mice And Men (Steinbeck)--AGAIN AND AGAIN
83. Rebecca (Daphne DuMaurier)
84. Wizard’s First Rule (Terry Goodkind)
85. Emma (Jane Austen)
86. Watership Down(Richard Adams)--WANT TO
87. Brave New World (Aldous Huxley)--READ
88. The Stone Diaries (Carol Shields)
89. Blindness (Jose Saramago)
90. Kane and Abel (Jeffrey Archer)
91. In The Skin Of A Lion (Ondaatje)
92. Lord of the Flies (Golding)--READ
93. The Good Earth(Pearl S. Buck)
94. The Secret Life of Bees (Sue Monk Kidd)--WANT TO
95. The Bourne Identity (Robert Ludlum)--READ
96. The Outsiders (S.E. Hinton)--READ
97. White Oleander (Janet Fitch)
98. A Woman of Substance (Barbara Taylor Bradford)
99. The Celestine Prophecy (James Redfield)
100.Ulysses (James Joyce)
Look at the list of books below.
*Type "READ" beside the ones you've read.
*Type "WANT TO" beside the ones you'd like to read.
*Leave blank the ones that you aren't interested in.
*Type "AGAIN AND AGAIN" beside the ones you could read again and again.
If you are reading this, tag you're it! Let me know if you do it...
1.The Da Vinci Code (Dan Brown)--WANT TO
2.Pride and Prejudice (Jane Austen)
3.To Kill A Mockingbird (Harper Lee)--AGAIN AND AGAIN
4. Gone With The Wind (Margaret Mitchell)
5. The Lord of the Rings: Return of the King (Tolkien)
6. The Lord of the Rings: Fellowship of the Ring (Tolkien)
7. The Lord of the Rings: Two Towers (Tolkien)
8. Anne of Green Gables (L.M. Montgomery)
9. Outlander (Diana Gabaldon)
10.A Fine Balance (Rohinton Mistry)
11.Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (Rowling)--WANT TO
12.Angels and Demons (Dan Brown)
13.Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (Rowling)--WANT TO
14. A Prayer for Owen Meany (John Irving)
15. Memoirs of a Geisha (Arthur Golden)
16.Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone (Rowling)--READ
17. Fall on Your Knees(Ann-Marie MacDonald)
18. The Stand (Stephen King)--AGAIN AND AGAIN
19. Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban(Rowling)--WANT TO
20. Jane Eyre (Charlotte Bronte)
21. The Hobbit (Tolkien)
22. The Catcher in the Rye (J.D. Salinger)--READ
23. Little Women (Louisa May Alcott)
24. The Lovely Bones (Alice Sebold)--WANT TO
25. Life of Pi (Yann Martel)
26. The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy (Douglas Adams)
27. Wuthering Heights (Emily Bronte)--READ
28. The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe (C. S. Lewis)
29. East of Eden (John Steinbeck)
30. Tuesdays with Morrie(Mitch Albom)
31. Dune (Frank Herbert)
32. The Notebook (Nicholas Sparks)
33. Atlas Shrugged (Ayn Rand)
34. 1984 (Orwell)--READ
35. The Mists of Avalon (Marion Zimmer Bradley)
36. The Pillars of the Earth (Ken Follett)
37. The Power of One (Bryce Courtenay)
38. I Know This Much is True(Wally Lamb)
39. The Red Tent (Anita Diamant)
40. The Alchemist (Paulo Coelho)
41. The Clan of the Cave Bear (Jean M. Auel)--READ
42. The Kite Runner (Khaled Hosseini)
43. Confessions of a Shopaholic (Sophie Kinsella)
44. The Five People You Meet In Heaven (Mitch Albom)--WANT TO
45. Bible
46. Anna Karenina (Tolstoy)
47. The Count of Monte Cristo (Alexandre Dumas)
48. Angela’s Ashes (Frank McCourt)
49. The Grapes of Wrath (John Steinbeck)
50. She’s Come Undone (Wally Lamb)
51. The Poisonwood Bible (Barbara Kingsolver)
52. A Tale of Two Cities (Dickens)
53. Ender’s Game (Orson Scott Card)
54. Great Expectations (Dickens)
55. The Great Gatsby (Fitzgerald)--READ
56. The Stone Angel (Margaret Laurence)
57. Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (Rowling)--READ
58. The Thorn Birds (Colleen McCullough)
59. The Handmaid’s Tale (Margaret Atwood)
60. The Time Traveller’s Wife (Audrew Niffenegger)--WANT TO
61. Crime and Punishment (Fyodor Dostoyevsky)
62. The Fountainhead (Ayn Rand)
63. War and Peace (Tolsoy)
64. Interview With The Vampire (Anne Rice)
65. Fifth Business (Robertson Davis)
66. One Hundred Years Of Solitude (Gabriel Garcia Marquez)
67. The Sisterhood of the Travelling Pants (Ann Brashares)
68. Catch-22 (Joseph Heller)
69. Les Miserables (Hugo)
70. The Little Prince (Antoine de Saint-Exupery)
71. Bridget Jones’ Diary (Fielding)
72. Love in the Time of Cholera (Marquez)
73. Shogun (James Clavell)
74. The English Patient (Michael Ondaatje)
75. The Secret Garden (Frances Hodgson Burnett)
76. The Summer Tree (Guy Gavriel Kay)
77. A Tree Grows in Brooklyn (Betty Smith)
78. The World According To Garp (John Irving)--READ
79. The Diviners (Margaret Laurence)
80. Charlotte’s Web (E.B. White)--READ
81. Not Wanted On The Voyage (Timothy Findley)
82. Of Mice And Men (Steinbeck)--AGAIN AND AGAIN
83. Rebecca (Daphne DuMaurier)
84. Wizard’s First Rule (Terry Goodkind)
85. Emma (Jane Austen)
86. Watership Down(Richard Adams)--WANT TO
87. Brave New World (Aldous Huxley)--READ
88. The Stone Diaries (Carol Shields)
89. Blindness (Jose Saramago)
90. Kane and Abel (Jeffrey Archer)
91. In The Skin Of A Lion (Ondaatje)
92. Lord of the Flies (Golding)--READ
93. The Good Earth(Pearl S. Buck)
94. The Secret Life of Bees (Sue Monk Kidd)--WANT TO
95. The Bourne Identity (Robert Ludlum)--READ
96. The Outsiders (S.E. Hinton)--READ
97. White Oleander (Janet Fitch)
98. A Woman of Substance (Barbara Taylor Bradford)
99. The Celestine Prophecy (James Redfield)
100.Ulysses (James Joyce)
Just Curious...
Rich is taking Annie and one of her friends to see Bridge to Terabithia tonight. Annie loves to go to the movies. And whenever a movie is made based on a book she has read, we like to reward her with a trip to the theater to see it. Being the voracious reader she is, she gets to see nearly all of those based-on-a-book movies.
But it is always Rich who has to take her. I hope this doesn't make me a bad mommy, but I simply cannot watch a movie at the theater. Don't get me wrong, I love movies. I just have to watch them in the comfort of my own home. Which essentially means, I need to watch them where I can be doing something else at the same time. Used to always be some form of crafting, but these days it's often working on homeschool prep. Anyway, I cannot just sit. My hands need to be doing something. Sitting in a movie theater seems about on par with Chinese water torture. Simply cannot do it.
Just curious...
...do you like to see movies in the theater? And if you do, do you prefer the theater to viewing at home?
But it is always Rich who has to take her. I hope this doesn't make me a bad mommy, but I simply cannot watch a movie at the theater. Don't get me wrong, I love movies. I just have to watch them in the comfort of my own home. Which essentially means, I need to watch them where I can be doing something else at the same time. Used to always be some form of crafting, but these days it's often working on homeschool prep. Anyway, I cannot just sit. My hands need to be doing something. Sitting in a movie theater seems about on par with Chinese water torture. Simply cannot do it.
Just curious...
...do you like to see movies in the theater? And if you do, do you prefer the theater to viewing at home?
a light meal
Friday's Feast:
(Feast One Hundred & Thirty Three)
Appetizer--
What does the color pink make you think of?
*Rich. He loves the color.
Soup--
Name something you thought you had lost, but later found.
*My sanity.
Salad
In 3 words, describe this past week.
*Back to school.
Main Course
What are you obsessed with?
*Blogging. Creating. Homeschool duties.
Dessert
What kind of perfume or cologne do you like to wear?
*None. Most perfume-like smells make me very sick to my stomach.
A quick and easy one this week. Good...my brain didn't need to be taxed today.
(Feast One Hundred & Thirty Three)
Appetizer--
What does the color pink make you think of?
*Rich. He loves the color.
Soup--
Name something you thought you had lost, but later found.
*My sanity.
Salad
In 3 words, describe this past week.
*Back to school.
Main Course
What are you obsessed with?
*Blogging. Creating. Homeschool duties.
Dessert
What kind of perfume or cologne do you like to wear?
*None. Most perfume-like smells make me very sick to my stomach.
A quick and easy one this week. Good...my brain didn't need to be taxed today.
Thursday, March 01, 2007
yummy
We had the most delicious supper last night. I really must say, "Thank you, Stacy!" I tried her recipe for cheeseburger soup. Oh my gosh. Talk about delicious! I have to admit it was a bit more labor intensive than I like on a weeknight, but it was definitely worth the effort. I was afraid Rich might not be thrilled with it...though he's a big fan of soup, he prefers his very brothy. But I needn't have worried...he ate 3 bowls, so he couldn't have been too disappointed, huh? (The kids, of course, didn't even try it...herbivore Annie couldn't and the boys simply wouldn't.) And to go with the soup, I made scrumptious homemade rolls. A favorite around here. And I love making them. It plays into my illusions that I may someday become a domestic goddess...LOL. Don't ask why, they're actually very easy to make. Guess it's the whole yeast thing. And using a rolling pin.
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