I'm adding this to the list of Things I Wonder About...
What is with the BELT LOOPS on my maternity jeans? Anyone? Bueller? Bueller?
11.29.2007
11.28.2007
I'm Not Saying, I'm Just Saying
There are plenty of good reasons that you might want/have an artificial tree. But for those of you "real" tree people--here you go!
11.27.2007
Seven Random Things About Me
Here we go:
1. Hubs and I have an ongoing argument/discussion on the appropriate verb to use when addressing a slight skin irritation. I have always said that you "itch" your "itch". He consistently insists that you "scratch" an "itch".
2. I have an aversion to bare feet touching mine. Sock footed doesn't bother me but bare footed sends me through the roof with little exception.
3. I would prefer to bake a cake from scratch rather than use a box mix. I know that this may seem silly given the perfected chemistry of cake mixes. But I really would rather bake from scratch. For me, baking something that I enjoy and have done for many years with both my mom and grandmother.
4. My music collection is extremely eclectic. I own Nelson "After the Rain" , Garth Brooks "The Hits" and Cyndi Lauper "12 Deadly Cyns and Then Some".
5. I have lived in 11 different towns since my birth.
6. I am in a fantasy football league. My team is called the Rockford Peaches.
7. I prefer Johnson and Johnson baby lotion to foofy lotion.
I'm tagging Minnesota McGregors and My Crazy Life.
1. Hubs and I have an ongoing argument/discussion on the appropriate verb to use when addressing a slight skin irritation. I have always said that you "itch" your "itch". He consistently insists that you "scratch" an "itch".
2. I have an aversion to bare feet touching mine. Sock footed doesn't bother me but bare footed sends me through the roof with little exception.
3. I would prefer to bake a cake from scratch rather than use a box mix. I know that this may seem silly given the perfected chemistry of cake mixes. But I really would rather bake from scratch. For me, baking something that I enjoy and have done for many years with both my mom and grandmother.
4. My music collection is extremely eclectic. I own Nelson "After the Rain" , Garth Brooks "The Hits" and Cyndi Lauper "12 Deadly Cyns and Then Some".
5. I have lived in 11 different towns since my birth.
6. I am in a fantasy football league. My team is called the Rockford Peaches.
7. I prefer Johnson and Johnson baby lotion to foofy lotion.
I'm tagging Minnesota McGregors and My Crazy Life.
11.20.2007
Thanks Seems Inadequate
We are rapidly heading into the Thanksgiving holiday. In some recent conversations with Hubs, we have been discussing contentment and gratefulness. And I challenge you to reflect upon that which you are truly thankful for. Beyond a warm house, food to eat and the ability to provide for your family--while not lesser blessings, but those obvious on the surface. I am truly most thankful that I live in a country that I am free to worship and express faith openly. I am thankful for a gracious God that picks me up each and every time I fall, fail and flail. He remains the same merciful, patient Savior. God grant me the courage to step out, stand up for my faith and be counted.
I am also thankful for our family. For the little moments that are sandwiched in between the mundane. For a husband that I love dearly and am proud of, that shares and challenges my faith to deeper levels. For a precious daughter that warms my heart each and every day. And for the great and awesome responsibility of nurturing her in the faith. That God has blessed me richly with an extended family that is encouraging, supportive and loving.
For the amazing friends in my life--both new and old that are an inspiration to me. That make me laugh and understand when I cry. These women have such beautiful spirits and provide such encouragement to me. I am humbled by the relationships that have been entrusted to me--both blood relatives and precious friends. Just uttering "thank you" seems inadequate and yet it is enough. To acknowledge the Source and give thanks is enough for today.
I am also thankful for our family. For the little moments that are sandwiched in between the mundane. For a husband that I love dearly and am proud of, that shares and challenges my faith to deeper levels. For a precious daughter that warms my heart each and every day. And for the great and awesome responsibility of nurturing her in the faith. That God has blessed me richly with an extended family that is encouraging, supportive and loving.
For the amazing friends in my life--both new and old that are an inspiration to me. That make me laugh and understand when I cry. These women have such beautiful spirits and provide such encouragement to me. I am humbled by the relationships that have been entrusted to me--both blood relatives and precious friends. Just uttering "thank you" seems inadequate and yet it is enough. To acknowledge the Source and give thanks is enough for today.
11.16.2007
Uffda?
And today--of course, in the bathroom at Kohl's...The Princess announced/broadcasted/used the store intercom to state "I made poopies, Mama! I did a good job!" There was clapping. Lots of clapping on her part. Yes, a good job. Did I mention in the bathroom at Kohl's?
Also, the question she posed to me this morning was "What sound does a turtle make?" Hmm. Do turtles make noises? Anyone? I answered, in true Northland style, I answered "Uffda. Uffda. That's the noise that turtles make." So, I'm not Mom of the Year. But do I get points for creativity?
Also, the question she posed to me this morning was "What sound does a turtle make?" Hmm. Do turtles make noises? Anyone? I answered, in true Northland style, I answered "Uffda. Uffda. That's the noise that turtles make." So, I'm not Mom of the Year. But do I get points for creativity?
11.15.2007
Out of the Mouths of Babes...
One of the things I love the most about being a mom is sharing some very precious moments with Princess Pigtails. It blesses my heart the things that come out of her mouth.
Like today, when she informed me that my proposed lunch menu of mac 'n cheese, chick'n nuggets and carrots was a "good plan, Mama".
Or how on Tuesday or Wednesday each week she starts planning what she will wear to church on Sunday. The conversation usually starts with "Go to church 'morrow, Mama?" No, tomorrow is _______day. We'll go on Sunday. "Okay, Mama. And I'll wear my church shoes, and tights and a pretty dress and my bloomers!" It's a predictable conversation and yet it never fails to make me smile.
Another one is a result of the continual process of potty training, (and may be border line TMI) but you have never really experienced a trip to the bathroom, until you have had a two year old cheering you on saying "Good job, Mama!" and clapping. Lots of clapping.
And finally, yesterday morning, Princess Pigtails was giving me a "haircut". Which consists of me sitting on the floor, and Princess using a comb and brush on my hair. When she was "done", she asked if I wanted some "cayenne lotion" on my hair. Hmm. Let me think about that.
Like today, when she informed me that my proposed lunch menu of mac 'n cheese, chick'n nuggets and carrots was a "good plan, Mama".
Or how on Tuesday or Wednesday each week she starts planning what she will wear to church on Sunday. The conversation usually starts with "Go to church 'morrow, Mama?" No, tomorrow is _______day. We'll go on Sunday. "Okay, Mama. And I'll wear my church shoes, and tights and a pretty dress and my bloomers!" It's a predictable conversation and yet it never fails to make me smile.
Another one is a result of the continual process of potty training, (and may be border line TMI) but you have never really experienced a trip to the bathroom, until you have had a two year old cheering you on saying "Good job, Mama!" and clapping. Lots of clapping.
And finally, yesterday morning, Princess Pigtails was giving me a "haircut". Which consists of me sitting on the floor, and Princess using a comb and brush on my hair. When she was "done", she asked if I wanted some "cayenne lotion" on my hair. Hmm. Let me think about that.
11.13.2007
Oh For Funny!
So, Princess Pigtails' little two-year-old imagination is running amuck and I'm loving what she comes up with!
Yesterday, she was "baking" for me. Which, by the way, involves a metal mixing bowl, wooden spoon and a variety of measuring cups and measuring spoons. (This is one of her favorite activities.) I was informed that she was making a "cake" and so I now present her recipe:
1 tsp. chili powder
1/8 tsp. cayenne pepper
applesauce
And to drink: applesauce tea
This is the same child who once served me "dill butter". I think she may have been exposed to one too many episodes of Paula's Home Cooking.
This afternoon, she was using her stethoscope to listen the heartbeat of her Little Tikes slide.
Yesterday, she was "baking" for me. Which, by the way, involves a metal mixing bowl, wooden spoon and a variety of measuring cups and measuring spoons. (This is one of her favorite activities.) I was informed that she was making a "cake" and so I now present her recipe:
1 tsp. chili powder
1/8 tsp. cayenne pepper
applesauce
And to drink: applesauce tea
This is the same child who once served me "dill butter". I think she may have been exposed to one too many episodes of Paula's Home Cooking.
This afternoon, she was using her stethoscope to listen the heartbeat of her Little Tikes slide.
11.12.2007
A Change is Coming
I can't really pinpoint the feeling. For lack of a better word, I am scared. As we begin to prepare for the arrival of our second child, I am hesitant about the changes our family will undergo in the coming months. I am thrilled about the precious miracle that I am carrying. I worry about Princess Pigtails and how these impending changes will affect her. I pray that she will adjust quickly and that God will grant us wisdom in helping her through the adjustment period. She has such a tender heart and I want her to understand that our love for her will not change. And yet the dynamic will be different. And I feel guilty.
This baby's childhood will be different. We will be reaching for a balance that we have not experienced. Different better? I'm not sure. I know that this child will be blessed to have a darling big sister such as Princess Pigtails. I'm sure that many of the insecurities I had as a first time Mom will be diminished. But perhaps replaced by new fears and anxieties.
There is a gap between the mother I want to be and the mother I am most days. As I continue to submit these things to God, I feel some ease and comfort. But the concerns still linger. A lifelong struggle perhaps.
This baby's childhood will be different. We will be reaching for a balance that we have not experienced. Different better? I'm not sure. I know that this child will be blessed to have a darling big sister such as Princess Pigtails. I'm sure that many of the insecurities I had as a first time Mom will be diminished. But perhaps replaced by new fears and anxieties.
There is a gap between the mother I want to be and the mother I am most days. As I continue to submit these things to God, I feel some ease and comfort. But the concerns still linger. A lifelong struggle perhaps.
11.09.2007
A Bag for all Seasons
A girl always needs a great assessory! You really must check out these bags!
Try to not drool onto your keyboard--I imagine there would some potential for electrocution! Hubs got me a "Benny" from one of their fundraising collections for my birthday and it is absolutely fabulous!
It is the perfect size for schlepping all my paraphernalia to various meetings, etc. And did I mention it is beautiful? Beautiful!
Try to not drool onto your keyboard--I imagine there would some potential for electrocution! Hubs got me a "Benny" from one of their fundraising collections for my birthday and it is absolutely fabulous!
It is the perfect size for schlepping all my paraphernalia to various meetings, etc. And did I mention it is beautiful? Beautiful!
11.07.2007
Yum and Yum
In the spirit of the get-together season, I want to pass along a recipe that my friend AK shared for the absolutely yummy pasta salad that she makes. It's a perfect salad for that next "bring a dish to share" occassion. Enjoy!
Bow Tie Pasta Salad
10 oz. Bowtie Pasta, cooked, drained and cooled--set aside
Combine:
1/3 cup sliced green onions
3/4 cup shredded parmesan cheese
3/4 cup sunflower seeds
Bacon, cooked and crumbled
2 cups cooked & cubed chicken breast
Add:
1 jar Parmesan Dressing (like Marie Callendar's) and cooled pasta.
Stir to combine.
Refrigerate until cool & serve.
AK recommends that you add a little bit more dressing the next day if there happens to be any leftovers!
Bow Tie Pasta Salad
10 oz. Bowtie Pasta, cooked, drained and cooled--set aside
Combine:
1/3 cup sliced green onions
3/4 cup shredded parmesan cheese
3/4 cup sunflower seeds
Bacon, cooked and crumbled
2 cups cooked & cubed chicken breast
Add:
1 jar Parmesan Dressing (like Marie Callendar's) and cooled pasta.
Stir to combine.
Refrigerate until cool & serve.
AK recommends that you add a little bit more dressing the next day if there happens to be any leftovers!
11.06.2007
We are so in the Zone
Occassionally, around casa de Mama we have a rare couple of days where things are just going smoothly and things are getting crossed off The List. I don't mean to brag, but more to say that if it can happen around here, then there are still miracles done in our midst!
Perhaps it was spurred on by the "predictions"/"threats" of local meterologists that this was going to be our last decent weekend until June. Maybe it was the inspiration brought on by a very "exciting" (I use that term loosely) Friday night trip to the Home Depot. Or maybe there was some type of planentary line up--I'm not sure, but while I was at a meeting on Saturday morning, Hubs and DD made lunch and started dinner. (Which eliminated at least a solid hour of discussion on what sounded good--what can I say? I'm indecivise at best when it comes to meal planning.) Saturday afternoon, Hubs put up the plastic on the back porch windows--because yes, we are klassy like that and we live in an old drafty house. I have a fancy new dimmer switch on the bathroom light. Sunday afternoon was cleaning out the gutter across the back of the house and check it--putting up the outside Christmas lights! It's the little things.
As of last night, ALL of the laundry was done, FOLDED and put away. Clean sheets on every bed and everything vaccumed! DD and I baked chocolate chip cookies in the afternoon. I made chicken fried steak, mashed potatoes (thanks to Hubs for help on the gravvy), and green beans for dinner. Our fun family activity was to defrost both of the big freezers last night.
Needless to say, I'm feeling the inspiration beginning to drain. And I need a nap and ideas for supper. And if there is still time in the day--possibly search for a life.
Perhaps it was spurred on by the "predictions"/"threats" of local meterologists that this was going to be our last decent weekend until June. Maybe it was the inspiration brought on by a very "exciting" (I use that term loosely) Friday night trip to the Home Depot. Or maybe there was some type of planentary line up--I'm not sure, but while I was at a meeting on Saturday morning, Hubs and DD made lunch and started dinner. (Which eliminated at least a solid hour of discussion on what sounded good--what can I say? I'm indecivise at best when it comes to meal planning.) Saturday afternoon, Hubs put up the plastic on the back porch windows--because yes, we are klassy like that and we live in an old drafty house. I have a fancy new dimmer switch on the bathroom light. Sunday afternoon was cleaning out the gutter across the back of the house and check it--putting up the outside Christmas lights! It's the little things.
As of last night, ALL of the laundry was done, FOLDED and put away. Clean sheets on every bed and everything vaccumed! DD and I baked chocolate chip cookies in the afternoon. I made chicken fried steak, mashed potatoes (thanks to Hubs for help on the gravvy), and green beans for dinner. Our fun family activity was to defrost both of the big freezers last night.
Needless to say, I'm feeling the inspiration beginning to drain. And I need a nap and ideas for supper. And if there is still time in the day--possibly search for a life.
11.05.2007
Testing 1-2-3
I must say that I am not certain I am technically savvy enough to maintain a fabulous blog, but I am going to give it shot. If for no other reason than to document my random thoughts and the precious words that I hear out the mouth of my darling daughter. So, here we go.
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