My Crazy Life

New Year's Resolutions

2012-01-02T21:16:00.002-07:00

So, I made a couple new resolutions this year. I have kind of ignored resolutions in previous years because I know the chance of me pulling them off and finishing them are small. This year I had a different feeling about them. I decided it was time to make some of my own and really give them a big chance.

My biggest resolution is to exercise and get healthy. It won't hurt to fit in my smaller jeans again, either.

Without further ado, here is today's (my first) workout. I hope it inspires someone, someday.

Workout:

Day 1 of Couch 2 5K
30 Jumping Jacks
10 Crunches

Paleo Pancakes

2011-12-29T09:53:00.000-07:00

Paleo Pancakes (my version)
*Recipe is good for one person

1 Egg
1 Ripe Banana
1 Heaping TBSP Almond Butter

Heat a pan over medium heat. Grease pan. Mix all ingredients together very well. Cook on pan until golden on both sides.

Makes about 3 pancakes.

I also added a few blueberries to each pancake. They were so good! These pancakes were fluffy and felt like normal pancakes in my mouth. This is our new "go to" pancake recipe.

Brussel Sprouts with Bacon

2011-12-29T09:40:00.002-07:00

2 lbs brussel sprouts, cleaned and chopped
1 medium onion, diced
1 lb bacon, chopped raw

In large skillet over medium high heat, cook bacon. When bacon is half way cooked add in the onion and brussel sprouts. Cook until bacon is crispy and sprouts are nice and soft.

Salt and pepper if needed.

Black Bean and Corn Salsa

2011-12-26T17:53:00.002-07:00

1 Can Black Beans, drained
1 Can Corn, drained
1 bunch Cilantro, chopped
1 Onion, red or white
Tomatoes, as many as you want, diced (or 1 can drained diced tomatoes(I also added half a can of Rotel tomatoes for a little kick))
1 Tbsp Lime Juice

Dressing:
About 1 Cup Mayo
About 1/4 cup heavy cream
2 tsp. cumin
1 garlic clove, minced
salt and pepper to taste

Mix all together and let marinate in the fridge for at least an hour. Perfect with tacos or as a dip or all by itself.

20 Days Until Christmas

2011-12-05T22:13:00.001-07:00

Day 5 - 20 Days Until Christmas

We tried to decorate the tree today, but the day really got away from us and the amount of homework my kids brought home today didn't help. Our tree did get some lights put on it, though. One of my older girls, Brooke, is really good at putting up the Christmas lights, so she worked on that a bit. Unfortunately, it didn't get finished because we ran out of lights. It's so strange how each year we have to buy more and more lights. Where do they go during the year?? How is it we had enough lights last year but we are two strands short this year? After I go to the store tomorrow, we will finish the lights and decorate the tree.

21 Days Until Christmas

2011-12-04T17:53:00.004-07:00

Day 4 - 21 Days Until Christmas

Home made ornaments made with pipe cleaners and beads. We twisted the pipe cleaners in different ways to make them look like Christmasy things and then added beads to them. The kids had a great time making them. Unfortunately, I had to put the tree up for the ornaments because they would NOT stop bugging me for the tree!! So, the tree is out, but we ran out of time to decorate it.

Pictures will be posted once we actually decorate the tree.

22 Days Until Christmas

2011-12-03T21:00:00.002-07:00

Day 3 - 22 days until Christmas

Today we made our own advent type countdown chain. My 16 year old even got off the computer to make one. It was a lot of fun.

Items Needed:

Saran Wrap
Enough Hershey Kisses to countdown to Christmas. One per day.
Christmas Colored Ribbon
(I picked up the saran wrap and ribbon at the dollar store. I went to Target for a big bag of Hershey Kisses.)

To start, take out a really long piece of saran wrap and put a ribbon at the top to seal the top. Next, take a Hershey Kiss and wrap it in the saran wrap and use a piece of ribbon to tie under the Kiss. Repeat until all Kisses have been used.

Each day the kids get one Hershey Kiss.

Our final product hanging on the wall:

23 Days Until Christmas and Popcorn Recipe

2011-12-02T16:27:00.007-07:00

Day 2

Today is Friday and we have Christmasy plans for the evening. We get to decorate the city Christmas Tree and have a little party with my oldest daughters' Girl Scout troop. After this, we are headed to Barnes and Noble's to sing carols and read Christmas stories.

When we get home (and so we can include the kids who aren't able to make the Girl Scout events), we are going to watch Jim Carrey's A Christmas Carol... with popcorn of course!

Here is our most favorite popcorn recipe:

1/4 Cup Coconut Oil
1 Cup Popcorn Kernals
1 Big Pop with good lid (the popcorn will almost fill the pot. This makes a lot of popcorn)
Pop holders
Real Butter (we use about 3/4 of a stick for this pot's worth)

On stove over medium heat, melt coconut oil in pot. Dump in the popcorn kernels and put lid securely on. Using the pot holders (because sometimes steam will escape or the handles will get too hot), shake the pot every few seconds until the kernels start to pop. Once they are popping, shake the pop continuously so the popcorn doesn't burn. Make sure the pot stays in contact with the heat source. (You kind of swirl the pot over the burner). The popping noise will start to slow down and when you only hear one or two pops every few seconds, remove the pot from the heat. Take the lid off immediately (beware of steam) so the kernels don't get wet. Melt some butter, drizzle over popcorn and toss the popcorn so it gets all over the kernels, season to your preference and enjoy!

24 Days Until Christmas

2011-12-01T11:01:00.004-07:00

Christmas again?? It feels like each year Christmas pops out at me shouting "Here I am. Show me the money!" This year (like so many others) money is tight and Christmas isn't going to be as spectacular as I hoped. I decided the best way to make this Christmas special is to do a little something special for my kids each day. Sort of a Christmas countdown, but also a way to bring out some Christmas spirit.

Day 1 - 24 Days Until Christmas (Let's hope my math is right)

Today's specialty are Chocolate Chip Cookies. I came across these and thought it would be fun to have them ready for the kids when they get home from school. They are easy enough to not make me feel overwhelmed by them and they won't interfere with the cleaning I need to accomplish. This countdown should not (and will not) feel overwhelming. It is supposed to be FUN.

Edited to add: These cookies were a HUGE hit! They were a very good chocolate chip cookie. Definitely worth making... again and again and again.... But, beware you don't overcook them.

Weekly Meals using my Bountiful Basket

2011-01-22T10:21:00.008-07:00

This week, I not only got the regular basket, but I added on the Italian pack from Bountiful Baskets. You should also know, I order two baskets each week because we are a family of 7 and I am an evil mom who loves to throw fresh vegetables into everything I can. We eat way more vegetables a week than we do fruit. I have always cooked this way because I enjoy torturing my kids as much as humanly possible (insert big grin here). I didn't get to make some of the recipes from last week (extremely busy week!!), so I will be adding them on to this week.

Here are the recipes I will be using this week to use up our produce. The bullet points are the items from the basket are to be used with the dish is under.

In no particular order (because some days end up being too hard to make time consuming dishes):

Chili Verde on Rice w/ a Salad

Chili Verde: Tomatillos, green chilis, garlic, jalapenos, cilantro, onion
Salad: Romaine, tomatoes, some red onion

Potato Soup

No recipe, yet. I will try to remember to write down how I make it. I will tell you it has potatoes, onion, celery, cooked bacon all crumbled up, I will probably add the broccoli in this and see how it turns out, chicken broth, herbes de province (seasoning), salt, pepper. I cover all the produce with the broth, about 2 to 3 inches above, and let it simmer until the potatoes are falling apart (this is what thickens the broth. I don't like using flour). I stir in non-fat plain yogurt (tastes like sour cream this way with none of the fat and calories). Top with a little cheese.

Eggplant Parmesan w/ a Salad and homemade bread

Eggplant Parmesan: eggplant, garlic, basil
Salad: Romaine, tomatoes, some red onion

Turkey Burgers w/ pan cooked diced potatoes

Burger: zucchini, red onion (probably the last of it), garlic
Potatoes: Season with salt, pepper, and fresh rosemary. Coat a pan with olive oil and let heat up. Add potatoes and cook until tender in the middle and crispy brown on the outside, stirring often so they don't burn.

Roasted Butternut Squash and Bacon Pasta w/ Broccoli and Garlic bread

Pasta: butternut squash, fresh rosemary
Asparagus: Rub olive oil on them and sprinkle with salt and pepper and grill in a pan on the stove. (my kids sneak asparagus off the cooking pan when I cook it like this)

Curried Savoy Cabbage Soup with Mushrooms w/ bread

Soup: savoy cabbage, onion, thyme, potato, mushrooms, parsley

I am not going to do a seventh meal. I need a night for leftovers.

If you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask! Have a happy, healthy week!

Weekly Menu

2011-01-15T16:03:00.000-07:00

Needing to use up my Bountiful Baskets I got for the week, I came up with this menu:

Sunday: Ribs w/ Spinach salad

Monday: Chicken Peanut Curry w/ green beans

Tuesday: Kielbasa Lentil Soup w/ bread

Wednesday: Taco Rice

Thursday: Chile Verde

Friday: Butternut Squash and Bacon Pasta w/ Asparagus

Saturday: Butter Chicken w/ Broccoli

Kielbasa Lentil Soup

2011-01-15T09:41:00.000-07:00

*Created by ME

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 lbs lentils

• 2 lbs (approx.) Beef Kielbasa, chopped

• 4 Tbsp. garlic, minced

• 1 large onion, diced

• 4 stalks celery, chopped

• 1 bunch cilantro, chopped

• 1 14.5 oz can crushed tomatoes

• 20 cups beef broth

• 4 packets Sazon Seasoning

Preparation Instructions

Rinse lentils and put them into large stock pot. Add everything else into pot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium low and let simmer for about an hour, making sure the lentils are soft.

As of today

2010-10-30T12:49:00.003-06:00

Ok. So, it's been awhile. Summer was great. When school ended, I decided not to do much except play with the kids and enjoy the quiet time with them. We went to the pool a lot and I got my first tan in years!! I just hope it stays through winter.

Since school has started things are back to crazy. I have started to realize that I say "no" to too many things the kids want to do because I am so worn out each day. I have started to make a conscious effort to let them do more. But, my limit is 8 pm. I do not want to be out driving past that. I need my rest and relaxation time and after 8, I am more than ready for it.

I am currently gearing myself up for pomegranate jelly making time. Have I mentioned they are a pain in the ass? Oy. No wonder it only actually gets done once every few years. I have also just picked up a 50 pound case of cucumbers for pickling. I am so excited to make pickles, but only because I have never done it before. Anything new is fun the first time.

Bountiful Baskets

2010-05-17T13:59:00.006-06:00

I started doing a food co op called Bountiful Baskets. Let me tell you that I love it. It is a really cool way to get fresh, inexpensive produce each week. If you happen to have this program in your area, try it.

This is what I received Saturday:

8 bananas
6 mangos
6 tomatoes
6 corn on the cobs
8 peaches
8 limes
a 3 lb bag of apples
2 butternut squash
a mini watermelon
a small bag of mini carrots
a bunch of brussel sprouts
and a large head of romaine lettuce

All of the above items cost me $15. That's it. What's really nice is I get different produce each week. It's not the same thing from week to week. So, while we have brussel sprouts this week, next week we most likely won't.

This is how it works:

I get online on Monday afternoons and put my order in. On Saturday morning I take a laundry basket and go to a designated area to pick up my produce. I then plan my week's worth of meals around the produce.

The best thing about it for me? I love that I get to come up with new things to eat around the basket. It feels like a challenge to me to have to use it all up before the next basket comes.

Planning Ahead

2010-04-13T09:42:00.003-06:00

This semester is almost over. THANK GOD!

It has been the hardest semester as of yet. I am doing really well in my Anatomy classes and in my Physiology lab, but I have a solid C in my physiology lecture. So, I will be retaking it next semester. Luckily, even with that C, I can apply for the nursing program this fall.... As long as I re-take an old psychology class over the summer. Which stinks, because I wasn't going to take anything over the summer. That's alright, though. It will all be worth it someday.

Today I registered for fall semester. Of course, I registered for way too much but only so I can drop the ones I decide I don't want. I would rather add too much now and be able to get into all the classes I want to.

Here is the rundown for Fall Semester:

For sure I will be taking:

Physiology (luckily, I won't have to take the lab again)
Business Statistics
Medical Terminology

The ones I am thinking about:

Trigonometry (if I don't get into the nursing program I will need this for a Biology degree)
Human Development

I know there is light at the end of this very long tunnel, but it would sure be nice to see it! I really do enjoy being in school and learning (I was never very good at it as a kid). It just feels like it is taking a really long time to get to where I am going. If I get into the nursing program, I will see major light. Getting in will mean I will have three semesters left. IF I don't get in (which is a bigger chance than getting in is), I will have something like three years left! Sigh.

Slowly, but surely, I am going to get SOMEWHERE!

A Social Retard

2010-04-06T16:15:00.002-06:00

I have decided that I may be a social retard. I am not sure when this happened as it has always been easy for me to make friends and talk to people. Lately, though, I have noticed that I am less comfortable talking to people than I used to be. It has gotten to the point of practically ignoring people I know.

Example:

Today I took the two youngest kids to a local indoor play place. While there, I saw two different people I knew. One was the wife of my oldest son's boy scout leader and the other was a woman I know from the kid's school. Both of them I waved to and that's it. Nothing else. I practically ignored them after that. What the heck?! When did I become such a retard??

I think it might be due to the stress I have been under. I just don't FEEL like interacting with people or pretending life is great when it doesn't feel that way. I just don't have the energy. So, maybe I'm not a social retard. Maybe, I just can't handle much else right now, including people.

Addiction and Back to Life

2010-03-18T18:09:00.002-06:00

Have I mentioned how addicted I am to Facebook? I signed up for it about 2 or 3 years ago, I don't really remember when. At first, I didn't get the point of it. Now, I can't get off it. Which really isn't helping with the needing to study. I love that all my friends are on there and we get to keep up with each other. I love that I get to be a farmer (Farm Ville), a mobster (Mafia Wars), a chef (Cafe World), and a mayor (My Town). I think it's become an escape from all the stress of life right now.

The kids and I had spring break last week and it was the most relaxing, enjoyable week I have had in a long time. Monday and Tuesday I didn't do much. We watched t.v., a couple of movies, and just enjoyed being home. By Friday I had shaved (which was much needed), cleaned the house (which is no longer clean), caught up on laundry (which is starting to overflow again), and had cooked dinner every night (we had nachos twice because we were craving them). It was a great week.

This week, we are all back to school. I even have 2 tests to take over the weekend to prove it. Hopefully, I will pass them all. I didn't study much at all over spring break. I had planned on it, but when it came down to it... I just didn't feel like it.

An unhappy post.

2010-02-26T13:37:00.002-07:00

Last night we went to an awards banquet for my oldest son's swim team. We sat by this family that had children who LIKED each other. It was very odd. (Although, I secretly wish my children liked each other and were friends). Anyway, she said something that stuck with me and has really been bothering me: They moved to the area we live because they only have one chance to raise their kids the right way.

It makes me wonder what I am doing, besides missing out on the kids' activities. I need to be home more, I need to spend more quality time with my kids. I need to go to more than one part of one swim meet. I think this is either my last semester at school or I am going to have to quit work. I will see at the end of the semester. My dream would be to quit work and continue school. I really don't want to quit school. For the first time in my life I am succeeding in school and I love it. Unfortunately, right now, it doesn't seem like I am getting the chance to really follow my dreams. It seems like all I can do is what HAS to be done with no time for dreams.

Hopefully, this will change.

As the ceremony went on, I realized what a loser parent I have been this last year and a half. I used to go to all sorts of activities with the kids. I never missed anything they were in or played in. Now, I miss EVERYTHING. I used to help out and functions and at the kids school. Now, nothing. I can't even let the kids do the activities they want to because it interferes with either school or work, usually it's work that gets in the way.

I am so utterly unhappy with the way my life is right now. Something has to change.

My ADHD

2010-02-16T10:36:00.003-07:00

As some of you remember, my 8 year old was diagnosed with ADHD. Two of my older ones have signs of it, but they have been manageable-I don't feel the need to have them diagnosed. I was diagnosed with ADHD when I was 16 years old and my 4 brothers and sisters have all been diagnosed with it. Lucky for us, it all stems from our mother, who has also been diagnosed. :)

For years, my mother told me to try medication for it. I didn't because I honestly did not see how ADHD was affecting my life. I thought I had a handle on things. Until recently. In November, my doctor gave me Adderal to see if it would help with studying. What's great is that it has helped in all areas of my life. There is a night and day difference in me when I take it vs. when I don't. When I take the meds laundry stays caught up, the house stays picked up, I can study (and not have to read the same page 50 times before I just give up), and I don't feel as foggy minded. Everything seems more clear and things are getting done. (Don't get me wrong, I still have a problem with procrastinating and the house is not as clean as I am making it sound. I mean, our Christmas tree just came down two days ago! ;) But, things are definitely better.)

Another bonus? I have had an anxiety disorder since I was 19 years old. When I take the Adderal, the anxiety is mostly gone. It sure doesn't attack me like it used to. The doctor says it's because the meds help me control my thoughts and they aren't so out of whack. I don't know, but I do know that I feel much better.

What do you tip?

2010-02-02T10:42:00.003-07:00

I have noticed more and more that people don't tip what they should. Maybe it's the economy, maybe they are cheap, or maybe they just don't realize what it's like to live off of $1 per person tips. My hope is that people just don't realize the protocol. And because we have to live off of tips, undertipping irritates me pretty bad.

In my area, I have had servers tell me that most people tip about $1 per person, no matter what their bill is. Tipping should be done based off of your bill. Now, I know I tip a bit higher than standard because I understand the amount of work a server has to do for me to enjoy my meal. I start my tipping amount at 20% when I sit down. If the server is good and attentive (not annoying) they will get the full 20%. I go down from there. 10% is the lowest I will give. The only time I will leave $0 is if a server is so bad I had to talk to the manager. This way, the server knows it was about their service and not about me being cheap.

As I was thinking about all of this, I started wondering what the right tipping protocol is for other types of places.

So, I ask you. (Although, I know a lot of people have quit reading :) What do you tip your hairstylist? or the person who makes your coffee at Starbucks?

To my sister:

2010-01-25T16:11:00.001-07:00

For those of you that read my sister's blog, you totally know why I am dedicating this video to her.

(I love you Steph!!)

Just a boring update

2010-01-22T16:10:00.003-07:00

I am only in my second week of school and I am ready to melt down. I don't know what possessed me to take Physiology and Anatomy together. I think I lost my mind. They are really hard. For example, I took a quiz this week in Physiology and scored a whopping 2 out of 5. Luckily, it was for extra credit only. I can't believe how poorly I did. I don't think it was a good idea to take a trip last weekend to California. At least we had a good time!

Our washing machine is still broken. I don't know when I am going to be able to get to the laundry mat this weekend. I have so much studying to do! Even the thought of it brings me to tears. We are looking to buy a used washer to replace it for now, but are not having much luck. I don't know why people want to hang on to the ones they have. Don't they want better? ;) I also think if someone lists something on Craigslist, they should respond with some kind of answer when emailed.

And to top it all off? I am seriously considering NOT doing nursing. I just don't know right now. It might be the stress playing tricks on me, but it is not a desirable thought right now to be a nurse. I am really leaning towards Biology in general. Even though the classes are really hard, I really enjoy them. I wish I didn't seem so wishy washy.

I hope you all are doing better than I am right now! Tell me something good!

Update: First Day Back to School

2010-01-12T08:42:00.002-07:00

It went great and I absolutely love my schedule, right now! By chance, I got into the class I was trying to get into. At the very last moment a spot opened up! I was so relieved. I am now taking the same teacher for Anatomy and Physiology and he supposed to be the absolute best teacher in these subjects. I am hoping he teaches the material together a little bit, but probably not.

In Physiology he said multiple times this class is going to be a "bitch" and don't plan on having a life for the next four months. In Anatomy it was a bit different. We will be coloring a lot and he didn't use the term "bitch" at all when talking about the class.

My 8 am Anatomy lab was canceled yesterday morning which ended up great. When faced with the decision of what to do to kill the next 2 hours I decided to go to the bookstore and buy my books. I am so glad I did. Because I was there so early, there was no line. I was in and out in 20 minutes (and $500 poorer). If I had waited until the afternoon like I almost had to do, I would have been there at least an hour, if not more.

Tonight, I have my Physiology lab which I am nervous about, only because the lecture is going to be so hard. I know this lab will be just as hard.

So, once again, I will miss you all! My head will be buried in books (really big books) for the next 4 months. I promise to come up for air once in a while!

First Day Back to School

2010-01-11T06:44:00.003-07:00

Well, today is my first day back to school. Hopefully, all will go well as I am still trying to add a class that has been completely full for a month!

All I can say is Let the craziness begin!

Banana Crisp

2010-01-08T06:53:00.003-07:00

I made this recipe up by trying some other things lately. I never would have thought that cooking a banana would be so good. I like raw bananas just fine, but I don't eat them often. Cooked, they are amazing!

Ingredients:

Bananas--however many you will eat

1 Cup oats

1 Cup butter

1 Cup brown sugar

Directions:

1. Pick a baking dish--any size (I have used an 8x8 and a 9x13).

2. preheat oven to 400 degrees F.

3. Mix 1/2 cup cold butter and the sugar until creamy.

4. Add in the oats and mix until combined. Set Aside. (This makes enough for a 9x13 size pan. You can refrigerate the rest for a later batch.)

5. Place the rest of the butter into the baking dish and put into oven until just melted.

6. Take the baking dish out and cut bananas in half length wise.

7. Place the cut bananas into the baking dish cut side down. You want them side by side--slightly squished together.

8. Sprinkle the oat mixture all over the top of the bananas. Cover them good.

9. Bake for about 15 minutes.

10. Serve with some vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. Enjoy!

Post linked to Grocery Cart Challenge.

A little introspection.

2010-01-07T08:06:00.005-07:00

Do you know what it feels like to offend somebody and not really know how you did it? I do. And let me tell you: It does not feel good to constantly wonder if you said something you shouldn't have. My mouth tends to say something and later I will think back on a conversation and think "why did I say that?" or wonder "why did I do that?"

About a year ago, I had a friend (a really good friend) quit talking to me. She wasn't mean about it, she just disappeared. It was weird. We had been friends for about 10 years and we had talked often. It was really hard to lose that friend.

I really don't want to lose the current friends I have. I am an extremely social person, at least I used to be. It has been really hard not having the time or energy to spend time with the friends in my life. I want to have parties and have friends over to watch movies or just gabber.

I know it is easy for me to get caught up in school and family, which are important, and forget my wonderful friends. I guess that should be my belated New Year's Resolution: To work on spending time with my friends.

To all my friends: I love you!

Resolutions and Orange Cranberry Scones

2009-12-31T09:08:00.005-07:00

I know we are supposed to have wonderful things planned out for the year ahead and I really love the idea, but I NEVER follow through. Within 24 hours of the year coming in, I completely forget I made a resolution until around July. In July I think "Well, shit."

So, for this year I am going to continue the things I like in my life:

I hope to continue to succeed in school (it makes me proud of myself).
I plan to continue to eat smaller portions and watch my weight (it is too hard to lose to put it all back on again).
I hope to continue to successfully homeschool the 8 yr. old (because I really don't want to screw this up).
I plan to continue to spend quality time with the Family each week (which isn't too hard because I feel guilty with all the time I spend at school and work).
I plan to continue to cook healthy meals for my Family (Or have the hubby cook healthy meals for the Family ;).

And one new one:

I plan on buying a new washer or gently used washer immediately in the new year!

Happy New Year Everyone! I hope everyone is able to accomplish ALL their New Year's Goals this year. This Year can be the year of Success!

_______________________________

And to bring in the New Year, here is a recipe to my most favorite pastry EVER!

Orange Cranberry Scones

Ingredients:

One medium to large Orange

1/2 C. Very cold Butter (not the fake stuff)

2 C. Flour

2 tsp. Baking Powder

1/2 tsp. Salt

2 Tbsp. Sugar

1/2 Cup diced Fresh Cranberries (I am sure you could use the dried and sweetened ones, just leave out the 2 Tbsp. Sugar)

Directions:

Preheat oven to 400 degrees

1. Zest the entire orange, set aside.

2. Then squeeze all the juice out of the orange (pulp is good, but not chunks), set aside.

3. I did it all in my food processor: Sift the Flour, Sugar, Salt, and Baking Powder together.

4. Cut the butter into small squares and mix it into the flour mixture. You want the mixture crumbly, but you don't want big chunks of butter. This is where a food processor really comes in handy because you want the butter to stay as cold as possible. This is what makes the scone flaky.

5. Add in the zest and the cranberries. Mix until coated. (I pulsed it a couple of times).

6. Drizzle in the orange juice and stir or pulse. Be careful not to add in too much liquid, you don't want the mixture sticky. You do want it to form a ball. If you don't have enough juice from the orange, just add in a little store bought juice.

7. Divide dough into 8 pieces and form into whatever shape you want.

8. Place on baking sheet (I use stoneware) and bake for about 15-20 minutes. You want them to be slightly golden brown on top.

Directions for the icing glaze:

Ingredients:

1 Cup Powder Sugar

2 to 3 Tbsp. Milk or Orange Juice

Directions:

Put powder sugar into bowl and drizzle in the liquid one tablespoon at a time, mixing well between each until you get the consistency you want.

The Bad, The Good, The Grotesque?

2009-12-30T10:30:00.003-07:00

You know that job interview I had? Well, I don't think I got it. The manager said I should hear from them by this past Monday and I have heard nothing. Nada. Zip. Maybe it's a sign and it's just not meant to be. I will admit that I am a bit disappointed. Luckily, I already have a job--which I like. But, there is this idea in my head of wanting to work in a hospital. I am sure it won't be anything like what I think, but the desire is still there. Especially, the desire to learn and what is a better place to learn in than in a hospital?

On a good note: The Hubby got a job. He starts today. It's minimum wage with minimal tips, but it's a job. I wouldn't say we are "excited" but we are feeling a little relieved.

I know I said I wouldn't talk about it for awhile, but my school starts back in 2 weeks! I am so nervous and excited. I can't wait to take Anatomy and Physiology. Did you know we get to work with actual Cadavers in anatomy?! I can't wait. Let's hope I remember my Bio class information ;).

Just have to share..

2009-12-26T12:27:00.002-07:00

We had such a great Christmas! We got the kids a Wii Fit Plus and the new Super Mario Bros. Game for Wii. We spent all morning taking turns on the Wii Fit and most of the afternoon and evening playing the Super Mario Game.

My favorite of the two is the Super Mario Bros. Game.

The Wii Fit is neat but the Super Mario Game is better. It is very similar to all the other Mario Games except for my favorite part: I love that four of us can play all at once. This creates a very competitive edge even though it is supposed to be cooperative effort. I believe we broke a lot of noise barriers with all the screaming, yelling, and laughing. If you have kids, a fun family, or some fun friends to invite over, I totally recommend this game. I can't wait to play it with the Family when they come next Thanksgiving!

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-24T17:11:00.004-07:00

Traditions are important and my kids will not let me alter our traditions one bit!

Tonight, Christmas Eve, we get to have Cornish Game Hens, Wild Rice, Artichokes, and Cherry pie for dessert. The kids will drink ~~apple cider~~ wine in wine glasses. We will then go and look at Christmas lights around town and make lots of oohing and aahing sounds. The kids will go to bed at about 9 pm because I am a horrible mom who has to go to bed at some point. While waiting for them to fall asleep, I will watch It's a Wonderful Life while I wrap presents. (I have yet to stay awake through the entire movie so I don't know how it ends).

Christmas morning we will wake up early ~~at the butt crack of dawn~~ and open presents with some more oohing and aahing noises. I then get to spend the next lifetime making wonderful things to eat like pancakes with strawberries and bananas and whip cream on top, bacon, cream cheese eggs, and orange juice (Everything is made from scratch, except the O.J.).

Normally, at this point, I am done. I don't normally cook Christmas dinner. For the last 6 years we have gone out to eat for Christmas dinner. We live in a fairly small town where even Denny's (which is ALWAYS open or so their sign says) is closed. We have known to be seen at Jack in the Box the first couple years and a chinese restaurant the last couple. Last year we went to a friend's house for dinner and I actually missed my chinese Christmas dinner.

This year my grandmother drove up. (yes mom, she's here). She brought with her a 10 pound prime rib that we will be cooking for Christmas dinner. It's really nice having someone here for dinner. I love having people over and I think I like to go out for Christmas dinner because it is less lonely. I get to be around the big crowds (it's amazing how many people go out to eat Christmas dinner).

Next year I think I am going to invite over anyone who doesn't have plans, family to go to or have come over, or those who just want to get away from their family. It would be fun to have friends over to celebrate Christmas with.

I hope you have a wonderful holiday as I know we will!

Merry Christmas!

This and That and Gooey Chex Mix

2009-12-23T09:26:00.000-07:00

I got my final grades today and I did much better than I ever have in school! School has never been my "thing." I have always struggled with school....Did I mention I dropped out of high school in the 9th grade? (I did take something similar to the GED and passed the first time).

So, here is the final tally:

Biology: B

History: A-

Communications/Speech: A-

English Literature: A- (I got an A on that 8-page paper I was writing)

I am so proud of myself!

_________

Yesterday, I made a whole bunch of some of the best Chex mix I have ever made for all the residents I help take care of--all 37 of them. They really liked it and it was fun. (recipe at the bottom). I had two of the ladies ask me for the recipe because they want to make it for their families. Yeah, umm, these ladies don't have a kitchen... But, I obliged and gave it to them anyway. Maybe they can convince their families to make it.

I am also giving out my pomegranate jelly to friends, neighbors, and co-workers. So far, everyone who has gotten one is really excited. Most have not tried it before, but are so excited to try it. I love seeing how happy everyone looks when they get one!

What do you give out for Christmas?

_________

Did you guys realize Christmas is in 3 Days?! I can't believe how close it is. We still haven't decorated the tree or done anything Christmasy. So, we are going to cram a whole bunch of stuff into the next 3 days.

Today: Decorate 1 Christmas tree (and clean the house).

Tomorrow: Bake cookies and decorate them (and possibly make a run to the laundry room).

Christmas eve: Big Dinner and look at lights.

_________

Gooey Sweet Chex Mix

Into one really big bowl:

6 Cups Honey Grahams

6 Cups any Chex Cereal

1 Cup Slivered Almonds

1 Cup Shredded Coconut

Into a medium sized sauce pan on medium heat:

1 Cup Butter and let it melt and then add

1 Cup Light Corn Syrup

1 Cup Sugar

Let the mixture come to a boil. Let it boil for 3 to 4 minutes. It will start to turn a light tan color, this is good.

Here is the best method I have found for mixing this: Drizzle some of the hot mixture over the cereal mix and stir. Pour more of the hot mix over the cereal and then stir. REPEAT until all the sugar mix is incorporated into the cereal mix. (I tried to dump it all on top the first time I made it and the sugar mixture cooled down way to fast and it was hard to evenly coat the cereal.)

Next, lay it all out on parchment paper. Try and spread it out. Let it cool completely.

Enjoy!

Day 1: A little lost

2009-12-18T08:44:00.002-07:00

Today is the first day that I don't have to worry about school.

I don't know what to do with my self right now. I am actually feeling kind of lost without the pressure of something due.

I have checked my grades online twice already this morning and I have only been up for 2 hours (I am still waiting for my other three classes to post my final grade-they have until Monday but I think it's a form of torture).

Laundry is done.....No, the washer isn't fixed. On Wednesday the hubby and I took EVERY single dirty cloth like item to the laundry mat. We got EVERYTHING clean. And it only cost us over $60. Painful. Lucky for us we had a bunch of books to sell back to the bookstore and that was just enough to cover the laundry. The wonderful part is ALL the laundry is done right now.

Did you know Christmas is a week away?!? I don't know how that got here so fast but I think it should wait another month so I have time to prepare....Oh wait, I will never be prepared.

I think I will teach myself Medical Terminology so I am ready for my classes next semester. Did I mention I changed my schedule? I have decided to take Anatomy and Physiology (which our college teaches separately) at the same time. I have been told countless times that these are really hard classes. I have also been told by countless people that one of the teachers I have to take is HORRIBLE. Only one person has said something positive about this teacher. So, I am really nervous about next semester.

The best part about doing them both at the same time: It makes it possible for me to apply to the extremely competitive nursing program in March. If I get in, I would start the program in the fall.

I also get to apply for my Associate of Science in January. Hopefully, I enough elective credits to receive it. I have all the core general ed. requirements for sure.

I will tell you: it is really nice to be at a point where there is light at the end of the tunnel.

Done! Done! Done!

2009-12-17T21:06:00.002-07:00

I am done! I finished my last final tonight.

I got an A on my eight page research paper in my English Literature class.

The only final grade I know is Biology which is a B. (That's what I was hoping for.)

Now, I get to wait and see what the rest of my grades are. My goal was a B in each class. Let's hope I did it.

A minor screw up?

2009-12-16T14:05:00.003-07:00

Did you ever go on a job interview and later think "why did I say that?"

I had a job interview today. It was for a part time (very part time-like 12 hours every 2 weeks) position at the hospital here in town. The timing was great. I am planning on applying for the nursing program in March and getting a job at the hospital would be killer. (I really want the job. Even really part time opens the door for the next position that has more hours. And, I can stay at my current job until more hours open up.)

I think the interview went well, but I don't know for sure. I sure hope they call me back. He did say I may not hear anything until the week of the 28th because Christmas messes everything up for HR. So, we will see. Unfortunately, when thinking back on the interview I think I may have said something I shouldn't have.

He asked me something like "what do you dislike about your present employer." I told him I really like my present employer and the management team is great. But then I said the only thing I could think of is that they have a hard time letting go of people who consistently don't work well.

Maybe I shouldn't have said anything negative. I should have "forgotten" anything I don't like. Sigh. Oh well.

As long as I learn from this experience, that's what counts, right? And to do better at the next interview.

I sure feel like I have been saying that a lot lately.

I still hope they call, and they might call, but I wonder how likely it is now.

3 down, 1 to go

2009-12-15T21:07:00.003-07:00

As of right now, three of my finals are done and I have one more to go.

Tonight, I am drinking a couple glasses of wine and relaxing. Tomorrow, I get to start studying again.

The washer is still broken and we are quickly running out of clothes. I think I am going to have to take some clothes to laundry room tomorrow. Yuck. I will take my books and study while waiting. The best part about having big kids? They will get to help fold the clothes when I bring them home.

If it's not one thing, it's another.

2009-12-14T08:19:00.003-07:00

Well, today is the official start of finals week. My first one is tonight. I then have two tomorrow and my last one Thursday night. It's nice to think I will get a couple of weeks off.

Our washer broke this weekend. I am not quite sure what we are going to do about that right now. We need clothes washed badly, but the laundry mat is pretty expensive. The Hubby took the machine apart yesterday and cleaned out the pump. We thought that would do it. But, no. It still doesn't work. Now I have to find time to take the clothes down to the Laundry mat and the time. If only the machine had waited one more week-that would have been a little more convenient for me.

I hope you all are having a better start to your week!

Getting there...Almost.

2009-12-12T07:53:00.002-07:00

Eight page paper done-I got all assignments done last week!

Four finals to study for-I have a final on Monday Night, two on Tuesday and one more on Thursday night.

Three loads of laundry washed.

Now, I just need to find time to study this weekend. I work all weekend, so hopefully, I will be able to get it all done.

And meltdown of the month goes to.....ME!

2009-12-10T22:41:00.002-07:00

Completely overwhelmed by life right now. Between money and time, which I have neither of right now, I am completely stressed.

I am sure most of you are saying "totally understandable." Unfortunately, I don't like melting down. I don't like crying and feeling hopeless. I want to always feel like everything is going to work out or be ok.

We are two weeks before Christmas, I should be in the Christmas spirit, right? Ha. School has taken everything from me this week. I have been working so hard trying to catch up that NOTHING else has gotten done. Which is not good when your 3 year old wets herself while sleeping and you have no more dry, clean pj's to put on her.

I am now chanting:

"One more week"

I sure hope you all are having a better week than I am.

English Literature

2009-12-09T13:32:00.002-07:00

My English Lit. professor is driving me insane! I am not sure if he really our papers before editing them or if he doesn't know what in the heck he is doing. I am currently in the process of writing an 8 page research paper on a book called "The Stranger" by Albert Camus. Yesterday I got back my rough draft with some insane edits on it.

For instance:

I wrote: "It could bring major destruction, huge change, and even death. When we don't live in the moment, these things can destroy us and/or our belief system."

His edit: He circled "these things" and asked "What things?"

REALLY? Didn't the sentence just before say what things?

and then:

I wrote: "Meursault doesn't look for justification for his own actions."

His edit: "Whose actions?"

Ummmm....starting to feel a bit insane here...

I wrote: "always honest, extremely carnal, and he only knows how to exist in the moment he is in."

His edit: "explain-expand on this."

The rest of my rough draft is expanding on that.

Again, I feel insane.

I am going to just write my paper, ignoring his ignorant editing, and tomorrow go talk to him (nicely of course, he still has control over my grade) and ask him to explain himself.

Good times.

Quote of the Year, Week, Day....Whatever

2009-12-06T08:43:00.003-07:00

Sleep is a symptom of caffeine deprivation.

~ Author Unknown

I love this quote. I am a HUGE coffee drinker and I really had to laugh when I read this.

Stress is good, right?

2009-12-02T13:25:00.003-07:00

English Literature: Eight page research paper on a book that is only 123 pages long, due next Thursday. Four of the pages are due tomorrow. I still have to reread the book and find sources.

Biology: Test Friday.

History: Need to read ten chapters in my history book over the next week and a half. Each chapter is 25 pages long.

Communication (a.k.a. Speech): A five minute persuasive speech due on Tuesday. Have to do this with a group. We each have to do five minutes. There are three of us which means we need to give a 15 minute speech.

Finals in two weeks.

And then I get a three week break! I can do it.

I. Can. Do. It.

I hope.

Back to Life

2009-11-30T08:31:00.003-07:00

You know that song "Back to life?" (I don't know if that's what the title really is.) That's the song that always comes to my head whenever I have to get back to my normal life. Which, right now, I am not looking forward to. I don't want my kids to go back to school. Heck, I don't want to go back to school.

Thanksgiving was so much fun! My mom, 2 sisters, 2 brothers, and 1 brother-in-law (who likes to think he isn't really a part of this crazy family) all left on Saturday. We had a blast.

On Thursday, the turkey didn't get started until 2 pm because the lady (insert crazy mother here) who was in charge of stuffing took forever getting it together. By the time everything was done, it was 8 o'clock and the turkey was still cooking. But, the food was delicious, the pies were phenomenal, and the alcoholic drinks were needed (they seem to be needed pretty early in the day, what does that say?).

On Friday, 11 of us went to see New Moon. My hubby and BIL stayed at the house, too cool to go see a "chick flick." It was a good movie. Much better than the first one, Twilight. On the way back from the theater we got to watch my mother jump out of my car, run through the parking lot of Albertson's wearing flip flops, grey capri work out type pants, and a nice coat-hair flying wildly in the breeze. She was giggling the whole time. This is the point when 4 out of 5 of us siblings said "Oh my God. You can have her." The 12 year old claimed her. We told him he could have her.

Once we got to the house we made the most wonderful sushi. My wonderful mother has learned to fish in tiny backyard called the Pacific Ocean (she lives on a boat part-time). She brought fresh tuna with her and showed me how to cut the meat off the bone. Oh my was the sushi yummy. I am hoping to go to California for my birthday in January. I told her I want to come home with a lot of fish. I will buy a freezer if I have to.

On Saturday, everyone came over for breakfast before they headed back. We played one last quick game of Scrabble. My mother talked Stephanie into making one more, real quick, pecan pie. They all left just before the pie was done. The funny part? I got to eat the best pie of the weekend and didn't have to share it with all of them! Ha. That's what they get for leaving.

I miss them already. Someday, I hope to live by them all again. I dream of having them over for once-a-month BBQ's and of them dropping by for the hell of it. I could go fishing frequently with my mother! Sigh. Why does Southern California have to cost so much?

So, like I said: Back to life. Back to school and tests and all the other fun things I have to do (like get my second dose of my Hep. B vaccine and the MMR for my phlebotomy class).

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone

2009-11-26T05:26:00.000-07:00

I hope all of you have a great day with family and/or friends.

We have a huge meal planned:

Turkey and Ham
Stuffing
Mashed Potatoes
Rosemary Roasted Acorn Squash
Cranberry Sauce
Garlic Roasted Cauliflower
Funeral Potatoes
Blueberry Jello
Sweet Potatoes
and of course lots of pies!

What is your favorite Thanksgiving dish?

This is the post about me trying really hard to not be in a panic.

2009-11-25T07:09:00.003-07:00

We are coming up to the end of the semester. I currently have 3 big finals to study for and 1 medium one. The medium one is my American History class. The professor has decided not to make the final comprehensive and I love him for it.

My communications class is driving me INSANE! The instructor is extremely disorganized. So much so that we still have two speeches to present and only two classes times left to do it and we are not scheduled to do them next week. Which means they are both going to have to be given on the same night. He has run his whole class this way and I shouldn't be surprised.

My Biology class is going pretty good. I have set up a study group with a couple of other ladies to study for the final. I hope this helps. I just got back the best test grade I have gotten yet in Bio.- a B! I was really happy.

My English Lit. class has an 8 page paper due in a week and a half. It has to be on The Stranger by Albert Camus or Fences by August Wilson. Both of these stories are really no longer than 8 pages themselves. I don't know how I am going to get 8 pages of ~~bullshit~~ critical analysis out of them.

So, there you have it. My stressful next two and a 1/2 weeks.

Last night I couldn't sleep. I woke up three times with all this going through my head. I had to turn the t.v. on all three times to distract my thoughts.

The great thing, and only thing, keeping me sane? When I am done in December I will have all the requirements done for my Associates of Science. I talked to the advisor yesterday and he told me to come back in January and have my transcripts audited so I can apply for the degree.

See, it just might all be worthwhile (or so I keep telling myself).

Thanksgiving and My Family

2009-11-23T11:04:00.001-07:00

I am so excited for Thanksgiving! Every year my mom, sisters, and brothers come up to my house from Southern California to celebrate Thanksgiving with us. We end up eating WAY too much food, drinking a little too much wine, and playing lots of fun games throughout the weekend. Our favorite games are Charades and Scrabble.

Now, let me tell you about scrabble. It has been known to cause wars during the visit. We usually get over them quickly, but we still play. My sister even went out and bought the Deluxe Scrabble that she now keeps in her trunk so she won't forget to bring it. I even heard a rumor that their might finally be an Official Scrabble Dictionary this year to minimize the ~~nasty fighting~~ wars. Even with all this, I LOVE playing with them. We usually play just girls (and then my husband starts to peek and give me hints of what words to use, which promptly starts a war). Oh the memories....

Charades is another one that we love. Especially after a glass of wine or two or... It's a lot of fun and Stephanie is really talented act acting them out (I will see if I can secretly video tape her impression of Kramer. It's a riot!)

This is where I need your help. In Thanksgivings past, we have used the charades box out of my Cranium game. Unfortunately, we have all memorized the cards after 3 years worth of playing. We need your ideas for Charades. What are some good things to act out?

Frog and Toad Field Trip

2009-11-22T10:45:00.000-07:00

We recently got to go on a field trip to our local college. They are doing a production of Frog and Toad. We got to go see how the play was made. L got to go on stage, play with some of the props, see where the costumes are made and kept, and he got to learn what it takes to put a show together. The director even took a few minutes to talk to the kids. It was great.

This was our very patient, gracious host, Steven. He was great with the kids. He didn't mind all the questions from the kids and he really took his time showing them everything.

Getting to try on the very cool, special, extremely heavy shell. As you can see, Steven had to hold it so L didn't tip over.

We had a lot of fun!

Homeschool Update

2009-11-21T10:15:00.000-07:00

So, we have been homeschooling for about 2 months now. Overall, it is going great! L is still happy to be home which makes me happy and sad. Happy because I know it's the right thing and sad because school must have been really hard emotionally for him. I know it's not the academics because he is doing great.

We are still using the Saxon Math program. We had to skip about 1/2 the program because it was way too easy for him. I wonder if the homeschool version is slower or at a different level than the school version he was in. I ordered the same level he was in at school and this one was really too easy.

We are somewhat using the Shirley English. There are some things we are doing in it, but not much. I ended up going to Barnes and Nobles and picking up a couple of English workbooks. One for vocabulary and one for reading comprehension. These have been great and he enjoys doing them.

He is currently making a State Box. Each week he picks a new state. He takes a 3x5 notecard and writes information about the state on it and draws the state. We then put it in a notecard box. He really likes doing this. We then eat a food that is special to that area. I think we will do this with country's when the states are all done.

Harry Potter is our current book. He is trying really hard to read the first one by himself. It's a struggle, but he is working on it and that is all that counts. He really wants to read like his big brother and sisters.

He is really hands on and creative! He is constantly trying to make weird things out of weird items. He collects cereal boxes because he likes to try and make things with them. I love watching him create. He especially loves going to The Home Depot and Lowe's kid's clinics.

We go lots of places and try to take every opportunity we can to teach him proper people behavior. We are having a little bit of a problem with how we treat people and what's right and wrong. I'm glad I can help him correct these behaviors now, but what a pain! I just hope we can change them. His ADHD doesn't help and when I forget to medicate him, we pay for it.

The doctor thinks we should up his dose. She is probably right, but I can handle him as long as he takes the dose he is on. When he doesn't take it, the melt downs start immediately and I have started to notice he talks more meanly to everyone. When he takes it, all these things stop. He is still bouncing all over, but this is a small thing to me.

We will get through all this and hopefully, by summer, I will be telling you how wonderful he is the majority of the time.

Berry Berry Streusel Bars-A.K.A. Granola Bars

2009-11-19T20:35:00.000-07:00

Years ago, I was given this recipe from a friend. I quickly fell in love with it. I have played with it and played with it until it has become a favorite snack/dessert/breakfast treat for all of us. It is originally from QuakerOats.com. I hope you enjoy as much as we do!

You are only going to see pictures like this because it went from the pan to all gone in 60 seconds flat. (Have I mentioned my 6'3" 14 yr old who is a walking stomach?)

You can see the yummy jelly coming up through the topping. Yum!

Berry Berry Streusel Bars - A.K.A. Granola Bars

1 1/2 Cups Oats (old fashioned OR instant-it doesn't matter)

1 1/4 Cups Flour (I like to use half whole wheat flour)

1/2 Cup Brown Sugar, packed

12 Tbsp. Very Cold Butter (it helps it be crunchy on the outside and soft in the middle)

1 Jar (about 8 oz.) of your favorite Jelly or Jam

1 tsp. flour

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

1. Mix together oats, flour, and brown sugar.

2. Cut in the butter, like a pie crust. You want the mixture to be crumbly. I use my stand mixer or food processor to help with this.

3. In a greased 8x8 or 9x9 pan, press in about 1/2 to 2/3 of the oat mixture. Save the rest for the topping. Press it in good.

4. Bake for 13 to 15 minutes. You want it just barely starting to brown.

5. While that is baking, mix together the jam and 1 tsp. flour. (When I double the recipe, I use a Tbsp. of flour to 16 oz. of jelly). Mix it well.

6. After you pull the crust out of the oven, pour the jam mix all over the top. Spread it out as evenly as possible. If you can help it, try not to get the jelly onto the pan sides. It tends to become a bit sticky.

7. Take the rest of your oat mixture and sprinkle it, using your fingers, all over the top. Cover the jelly with the topping as best you can and gently press it down into the jelly using your hands.

8. Bake for another 20 to 25 minutes or until golden brown on top.

9. Cut into squares and enjoy!

For more fun recipes to try, go over to the Grocery Cart Challenge every Thursday for their recipe swap!

Registration Time....Again

2009-11-18T08:15:00.003-07:00

I get to register for my next semester classes today. I love getting my schedule figured out. I like knowing and preparing myself ahead of time of what it's going to be like each semester. After a lot of conversations, I think (I hope) we finally have it all figured out (I wish).

I am going to take:

Anatomy and it's lab

Phlebotomy

Medical Terminology

and Sociology

13 credits total.

I also figured out that I now have ALL my general education requirements for an Associate's degree. I just need elective credits...I think. I am going trying to get an appointment with an advisor to help me figure this all out. I am feeling a bit burnt out right now because it seems like I just keep taking classes and I have nothing to really show for it but a bunch of credits I may not be able to use. I will keep you updated after I talk to the advisor.

Grocery Shopping Deals

2009-11-17T14:36:00.001-07:00

I love coupon shopping. I know there are a lot of people who get even better deals, but I am really happy with the deals I found today.

I got:

12 boxes of Chex Cereal

7 jars of Ragu Spaghetti Sauce

12 jars Skippy Peanut Butter

Between using coupons and the store specials I got 31 items total for $23.81! Less than .77 cents an item!

I just love finding deals like this.

Where I live.

2009-11-16T10:38:00.003-07:00

I took the family up to Snow Canyon State Park last weekend. It takes us about 15 minutes to drive there. We hiked a couple of trails and had a really nice time. I was able to get some really pretty pictures. So, I decided to show you what it looks like around where I live.

Pomegranates

2009-11-14T07:59:00.004-07:00

I love pomegranates. When I was a kid my mom would get me one pomegranate each year. (They were too expensive to get more than that.) To me, pomegranates are special. They are a treat that is fun to eat. (Beware, they stain.) They are beautiful.

Now, I have a pomegranate tree in my backyard. Each year I get to torture my children by having them help me take out each and every little, red, juicy pearl inside. We watch a movie or 4 and sit down and ~~get tired of pomegranates really quick~~ get busy. I then juice them using my Kitchen Aid Mixer with the fruit and vegetable strainer attachment (also great to make applesauce with.) It's awesome, I find little spots of pomegranate juice for weeks. This year we got four gallons of juice from our tree. So, I made pomegranate jelly. Lot's of pomegranate jelly. Twenty-four pints and thirty-six 8-oz jars of pomegranate jelly.

It's delicious.

Here is my recipe for pomegranate jelly:

5 Cups Pomegranate Juice

1 Tbsp. Lemon Juice (this helps keep out bacteria)

1 tsp. Butter (this helps keep the foam down, you'll see.)

6 1/2 Cups Sugar (preserves the jam so it doesn't rot)

1 box Powdered Pectin

1. Measure out the sugar in a separate bowl.

2. In a VERY big pot (It boils really big), start heating up the pomegranate juice on medium high heat.

3. Add in the pectin.

4. Stir until boiling.

5. Add in all the sugar.

6. Keep stirring.

7. When it comes to a full rolling boil, let it boil for one minute while you stir constantly.

8. Turn off the heat and using a spoon (it helps if the spoon is cold), dip it into the jelly and within a few second you will be able to tell if it jelled.

9. Put into jars and process jars according to whatever method you want to use, water bath canning or pressure canning.

It can take a couple of weeks for the jelly to fully form like the one above, but you can tell immediately if the jelling worked because it will look something like a thick jell. If it didn't work, you can redo the process. This SITE has great instructions for redoing the jelly.

*Make sure you use enough sugar or the jelly won't set right.

*Also, don't double the recipe or it won't work right either.

Out of one pot, I got about 7 little 8-oz jars or 4 pint jars and one 8-oz jar.

This post is linked to Grocery Cart Challenge.

A. Pain. In. The. Ass.

2009-11-13T08:01:00.002-07:00

Each semester, about two weeks before it is time to register for our new classes, The Hubby torments me with what classes and schedule he should take. I am not talking about thinking over two or three different options. I am talking about him changing his schedule 2 or 3 times a day!

What really sucks? I can't settle on mine until his is picked. Lucky for me, I only have two options. So, he has to sort of work around that in all his craziness, but I still have to listen to him change it so often. And when I quit responding? He get upset because I'm not listening or giving him the feedback he wants.

Sigh....

At least we register next week.

Unbelievable

2009-11-03T13:12:00.002-07:00

It's only November 3rd and I already found a radio station that is playing Christmas music! Yuck!

Sorry.

2009-10-19T08:51:00.002-06:00

I spend a week all excited to post and then nothing for awhile. Sorry I don't have more to say. I am pretty sure everyone gets tired of reading how chaotic my life is. I want something interesting to say or something great to share with you.

Someday soon you will get something great. Something like: We are currently in the middle of making pomegranate jelly and I forgot to take pictures of the kids taking all the little seeds out of each and every pomegranate.

I really need to find where I left my camera.

A bit stressed out right now.

2009-10-11T09:26:00.002-06:00

I have a biology test this week, a history test, and homework due for my communications class. The biggest issue I am having is finding the time to study. So, instead, I am sitting here waiting for my oatmeal to be done writing on my blog.

Study time is my hardest time to find. With working on the weekends, I want to spend the time I am home with the kids. During the week, I am homeschooling L and M (because she has to do what big brother is doing), running kids around, making meals, trying to keep the house up, etc.

I am also waiting to hear back from a job I applied for. I sure hope they call. Don't get me wrong, I LOVE the place I work now. But, the new place has benefits and hours to work that would work better around my schedule.

I hope you all are enjoying your Sunday a bit more.

Menu Plan Wednesday?

2009-10-07T17:59:00.004-06:00

I have decided that each Wednesday (haha, I sure hope I keep this up) I am going to post our menu for the week. You see, our store ads come out on Tuesday but start on Wednesday. Which means, on Tuesdays I can go through the ads and see what's on sale and what I may have a coupon for. This way I can keep our food budget real low and know what to cook each day.

I am doing quite a few crock pot meals because those are the nights I either work or have school.

So, here are our dinners for the next week:

Chili in the crock pot and Cornbread
Toni's Pork Roast-in the crock pot
Creamy Potato Soup-in the crock pot
Baked Chicken
Taco Soup-in the crock pot
Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
Lasagna Rolls

If you are lucky (and I remember to), I will post recipes as I make them and hopefully a picture or two.

Cutting Back

2009-10-07T11:27:00.003-06:00

I have so stressed out this week about money. I am currently waiting to hear back from a job I applied for so I can work full time doing 3-12 hour shifts a week. This way, it won't interfere with mine and hubby's school too much.

I am also trying really hard to find ways to cut back on spending. I feel like we already have cut back so much. It's sorta becoming depressing.

I think I am going to talk to the cable company about lowering our monthly bill. We currently pay $107. for basic cable, internet, and our phone line. I don't know if it can be lowered or if cutting cable will lower it very much, but I have to try. If we do get rid of cable, we can do Netflix, which is under $20/month. We can watch some t.v. shows online (like Grey's Anatomy! Did you know you can watch the newest episode online the day after it airs? Just go HERE!) We definitely can not get rid of internet because we need it for school. Not only ours, but the kid's school as well.

Another one is our cell phones. I LOVE texting. We have unlimited texting with our plan and two phones. We pay $115 a month. This seems outrageous to me. I think it might be time to forgo the texting and get to the absolutely cheapest plan available. (I am really going to miss my texting.) It might also be time to look at a different company. How much do you all pay and for what kind of plan?

Because of the great weather, we are finally able to keep the air conditioner off for good. In the summer it just isn't possible to keep the air conditioner off. We get to 110 degrees most of the summer! Now, we just need to keep the heat off as long as possible. It has been dropping into the 40's at night and I really hope it doesn't get much lower than that.

Hubby has been doing most of the driving to the kid's school. He takes them every morning and picks them up at least 2 or three afternoons a week. Since he drives a CNG van, I get to save my gas. He pays just under a dollar a gallon for CNG where as I have to pay $2.70ish for gas/gallon.

If anyone thinks of anything else that can save money, please let me know.

Family Grain Mill

2009-09-29T09:47:00.009-06:00

I love my new grain mill. I used it for the first time on Saturday and made rolls with the flour. I see that I am going to have to tweak my bread recipes for the whole wheat, but I am ok with that. I am going to try and make a new bread each week to really get a feel for the wheat. It is definitely different, more rustic.

Here is the mill in action:

It's loud, but no louder than a vacuum cleaner and it didn't take very long to grind 7 cups of flour, maybe 5 minutes (which is probably too long of an estimate).

I took these wheat berries and I got...

REAL FLOUR!

This was neat. The flour can be ground straight into a measuring cup.

Amish Friendship Bread

2009-09-27T07:28:00.000-06:00

About a year ago a friend gave me the starter for Amish Friendship Bread. I followed the directions perfectly and got the most yummy bread. It is along the lines of banana bread or zucchini bread or maybe a coffee cake.

Unfortunately, making two loaves of this high calorie bread every 10 days gets old, quickly. It is also easy to run out of people to give the starter to. So, the last time I made it, about 6 months ago, I froze the starter instead of passing it out and making more bread.

Last Monday, a co-worker of mine asked me if I knew how to make the starter because she wanted to make the bread. That was when I remembered I had the starters in the freezer. I gave her one and decided to make one for the family. So, watch out. I have starter to give away!

Here is how to do it if you receive a starter from a friend:

*Note: Do not use metal utensils or metal bowls. Do not refrigerate the starter.

Day 1: This is the day you receive the starter. Do nothing to the batter on this day.

Day 2: Squish the bag thoroughly. (If the bag starts to blow up on any of the days, just let the air out.)

(See the bubbles? Those are good. You want those.)

Day 3: Squish the bag thoroughly.

Day 4: Squish the bag thoroughly.

Day 5: Guess what? Squish the bag thoroughly.

Day 6: Add 1 cup flour, 1 cup sugar, and 1 cup milk to the bag. Squish the bag thoroughly.

Day 7: Squish the bag thoroughly.

Day 8: Squish the bag thoroughly.

Day 9: Squish the bag thoroughly.

Day 10 (AKA baking day): Add 1 cup flour, 1 cup sugar, and 1 cup milk and squish it all up. Take out three cups of the starter out of the bag and put into individual gallon bags in one cup increments. In other words, put one cup of starter in each bag. You can give these bags away to people you know, or don't know. You can freeze* them and start them over at a later date.

It's over! You get to bake your bread today!

I found this new recipe for the starter and decided to try it. I decided to put some apples in the bread today because apples and fall go together.

Recipe:

Starter

2 cups flour

1/2 cup sugar

2 tsp. baking powder

1 tsp. baking soda

1 1/2 tsp. cinnamon

1 tsp. salt

3 eggs

2/3 cup oil (you can substitute half the oil with some sort of fruit puree.)

1 tsp. vanilla

I also added in 2 tart apples (averaging one for each loaf), peeled, cored, and diced (you can also change the fruit or add no fruit at all).

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

1. Take the remaining starter and put it into a bowl.

2. Add all the wet ingredients to it, except the apples, and mix thoroughly.

3. In a separate bowl, mix together all the dry ingredients.

4. Add dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix thoroughly.

5. Fold in the apples

6. Grease 2 loaf pans and sprinkle the bottom and sides generously with cinnamon sugar.

(Can you see the cinnamon sugar on the side of the bread? Kind of?)

7. Divide batter equally, as best you can, between the pans.

8. Bake for 50 minutes or until done. (use a toothpick or a clean knife.)

*Variations: Try pumpkin puree with some raisins or carrots and raisins. Substitute half the white flour for whole wheat. Use brown sugar instead of white or half and half. This is a base recipe, play with it.

*About freezing: if you freeze your starter, it won't freeze solid. It stays mushy. When you take it out of the freezer, let it sit out for an hour or two to come to room temperature. At this point, you can either use it immediately to bake with or you can let this be day one and start the 10 day process over.

Exams

2009-09-25T16:17:00.000-06:00

I had two exams over the last week. I got one of the results back on Monday and the other back yesterday.

American History: B

Principles of Biology: C

I am really happy about the History grade. I almost dropped the class on Monday because of being so overwhelmed. Kind of glad I didn't.

The Biology grade is really ticking me off. I thought I did better than that. I don't know why I am having such a hard time with Biology.

If anyone has any good study techniques, PLEASE let me know.

Here is one for you: I found this site a couple of weeks ago and it is really neat. It is Quizlet.com. You can make flashcards on the site and then you can play games with those terms and it will generate practice tests. I am going to start using it a lot.

I Love Lucy

2009-09-24T08:16:00.003-06:00

My new wheat grinder is supposed to be here today and it got me thinking about making everything from scratch, which is my dream. It got me thinking about an I Love Lucy episode where Lucy and Ethel decide to make a deal with their husbands and be "pioneer women." It is really funny.

The New Curriculum

2009-09-21T06:56:00.001-06:00

This will be our first week using our new curriculum. I ordered the same curriculum L was using at school so the transition would be easy and he would already know what is expected. Hopefully, this won't backfire.

For math we are using Saxon Math. Saxon is a great program if you start with it from the beginning, or at least at a younger age. They teach things a little differently and use strange wording, which makes it hard helping the older kids because I don't have the saxon knowledge to help them. The teacher's manual is GREAT! It explains things very well, so far. I ordered the kit from Rainbow Resource. They had a great price and it came with the basics you need for the year. If you homeschool, you need to order the Rainbow Resource ~~bible~~ catalog. It's GIGANTIC and full of such wonderful information.

The teacher's manual is on the right. As you can see, they are both a good size.

For English we are going to give Shurley English a try. I have heard it is hard to use, which worries me and I know absolutely nothing about it. Luckily, even if I don't know how to use it, my eight year old does. He will be able to tell me how to do it, I hope.

Anybody else think it's weird the Teacher's Manual is 3 times the size of the

student workbook?!?

For everything else we are using Core Knowledge. I love Core Knowledge. I did order the teacher's books and worksheets from the company. With both the Hubby and I in school, I need this to be as easy as possible.

I will check back in soon and let you all know how it's going and what my thoughts are on the curriculum choices. Right now, the kid is still very excited to be home and that breaks my heart because it means school was not a good experience for him and I left him there for 2 years. He has not once asked to go back.

Grain Mills

2009-09-20T09:16:00.001-06:00

I desperately want to grind my own wheat. I have for quite some time. Home ground flour is so much more nutritious for you than the stuff we buy at the store. So, I decided I am going to start looking at them and comparing. You know what I found? They are EXPENSIVE.

I have certain criteria for a grain mill.

1. I really want an electric one, but it needs to have manual capabilities because you never know what the future will hold. If my power EVER goes out for and extended amount of time, I want to be able to grind wheat.

2. I want it to do a good job. It doesn't have to be a top of the line great machine, but it does need to be a good one.

So, based on those two points these are the two I am leaning towards.

The Country Living Mill - This one is like the Mac Daddy of manual grinders. It grinds wheat super fine. It has electric capabilities. It's made here in the USA. It has a great warranty. Unfortunately, it has to be bolted down to something extremely solid. It also costs $400 and the electric capabilities? $425 for the motor kit. So, total $800 for this mill. OUCH! I can't even pretend this is in my price range.

The Family Grain Mill - This is the one I picked. For $259 it has an electric base and it has a manual base. I love that it does both. The reviews I have seen are good, not great, but good. For instance, it doesn't grind quite fine enough to make a cake. Oh well. I don't bake cakes very often. I bet if I ran the flour through it again it would make it fine enough. But, not a big deal.

Like you care.

2009-09-18T09:03:00.003-06:00

I have been sick this week.

Sunday: it started with a scratchy throat.

Monday: my throat was still scratchy but now it was swollen and I was achy and tired.

Tuesday: I was feeling much better except my gums in the back of my mouth were really tender and swollen. I thought I had a tooth going bad or something. I made sure to buy a really expensive toothbrush because I must not be doing something right.

Wednesday: I noticed a canker type sore on the inside of my lip and a little swollen gland on my jaw line. It hurts when I touch it. I also started having panic attacks and worrying about cancer.

Thursday: Called the doctor and went in. He said there is an ulcer on the back of my gums and somewhere else I don't remember. It is most likely the reason my glands, two in my neck and the one on my jaw line, are extremely swollen. Oh, this is all on my right side. There is absolutely NOTHING on my left side. He said it is a virus that will have to run it's course. But, he did give my an antibiotic just in case. If it doesn't get better over the weekend or the sores start to get worse, I am supposed to take them.

Have I mentioned I am allergic to three types of antibiotics? This is a new one I get try and hope, REALLY HOPE, my body doesn't decide it is an intruder. I really hope I don't need it.

English Literature

2009-09-14T07:21:00.000-06:00

One of the classes I am taking is English Literature. I thought I was going to find this class really boring and find it hard to want to read the stories. So far, I LOVE it. The stories are weird. The discussions in class are fun. The teacher is different.

We have read 6 stories up to now.

The two I have enjoyed the most because they got my brain juices flowing are:

The Yellow Wallpaper by Charlotte Perkins Gilman
Hills Like White Elephants by Ernest Hemingway (I had to read this one a couple of times to really figure out the meaning of it.)

The others are:

The Things They Carried by Tim O'brien (It's too new to give you the actual text. This an interesting one. No real brain juices flowing, nothing to really figure out.)
What You Pawn I Will Redeem by Sherman Alexie (This was a fun quick read. But, again, it's all given to you. No real juices going.)
Araby by James Joyce (sorry to any literature experts, but this was lame. Supposedly, a great work of literature. Umm, ok.)
The Metamorphosis by Franz Kafka (Again, sorry to any literature people: Guy turns into a bug and dies. Woohoo. Yes, I know there is supposed to be more to it.

If any of you out there ready any of these, I would love to hear what you think of them. If you understand Araby, please explain it to me.

Banana Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies

2009-09-12T07:37:00.002-06:00

I had some bananas I HAD to use. You know the kind: almost, but not quite yet, oozing onto the counter. The kind that you look at and think "mmmm, banana bread." Except today I decided to get online and see if I could find something different to do with my bananas. Here is what I found: Low Fat Banana Oatmeal Cookies.

Only, my version are NOT low fat and I altered the recipe a bit. I really like these. They remind me of Fall and taste a bit like banana bread.

1/2 Cup Sugar

1/2 Cup Brown Sugar

1 Cup Softened Butter

2 Eggs

2 tsp. Vanilla

2 Cups Flour

1 tsp. Baking Soda

2 tsp. Cinnamon

1/2 tsp. Ground Cloves

3 Ripe Bananas, mashed

2 Cups Rolled Oats

1 Cup Chocolate Chips

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees

2. In a large bowl mix together sugars and butter until creamy.

3. Add in eggs, vanilla, and bananas.

4. In a separate bowl mix together all dry ingredients except the oats and chocolate chips.

5. Add dry ingredients into wet and mix well.

6. Fold in oats and chocolate chips.

7. Drop by spoonful onto baking sheet.

8. Bake for 10-14 minutes.

9. Let cool a few minutes before trying to take them off the pan or they will fall apart.

For more great recipes, check out The Grocery Cart Challenge!

A picture

2009-09-11T07:41:00.003-06:00

My 12 year old took this picture and I thought it was eye catching. She loves taking pictures of people. I sure hope she takes that passion and really does something with it.

My Birthday Boy!

2009-09-07T09:04:00.002-06:00

He is 8 years old today...

Homeschooling

2009-09-05T20:18:00.000-06:00

After thinking long and hard, we have decided to homeschool our 8 year old, ADHD son. Things at school are not going well for him. He can't stop fidgeting, even on his meds, can't sit still, talks too much, can't focus, can't concentrate, etc.

Last year, before we had him diagnosed, we had a HUGE problem with major tantrums (meltdowns) through out the day. Everyday, he would tell us he didn't want to go to school and from there it was a major battle for him to get ready. Usually it ended with him on the ground throwing a 2 year old type tantrum.

Now that he is on meds, we don't have meltdowns very often anymore, Thank God. But, he is with a new teacher and I don't know if she is equipped to handle him (this is her first year teaching also). All I know is he no longer wants to be at school. It's become a major problem.

Now don't get me wrong, this kid loves to learn! He isn't just sitting around not caring or not doing things. He is always excited when we learn stuff together. I think the classroom atmosphere is very difficult for him. I also think he is getting talked to a lot because of his Adhd behavior. He tries to do what he supposed to. He really does. I know what that was like as a kid and I do not want my children to have to experience being in trouble ALL the time. I don't want him to lose his spark.

The best part about all this: He is so excited that he will be doing school at home. He has been telling me all the things he wants to learn and do. It is so neat to see the excitement in him. I hope that all my children remember to love learning.

My Youngest and My Oldest

2009-09-04T13:28:00.001-06:00

I'm glad I have pictures like this. They help me remember that I like him and his 14 year old, argumentative, self.

Driving

2009-09-03T15:20:00.003-06:00

Tuesday, as I was leaving school, I pissed off another driver. I had turned my blinker on and got in front of him. He proceeded to throw his hands up, honk, and then stared at me as he passed me. (I had gotten into the turn lane.) So, I flipped him off. I mean, what a jerk, to stare at me like that. Shit, I had my blinker on.

Well, he turned around and followed me to the parking lot where I was meeting my husband. He then drove up to where our windows meet and proceeded to stare at me with his window still up. I stared back. After about 15 seconds of just staring, he signaled to me to roll my window down. I did. Why not? Luckily, my hubby was standing right with me, I just don't think the guy saw him.

Him: "Why did you flip me off?"

Me: "Because you were throwing up your hands and staring at me all rudely."

Him: "Why did you cut me off?"

Me: "I didn't, I had my blinker on."

Him: "No you didn't. (I think he was to busy staring at all the college girls.) Who do you work for?"

You see, I drive a 15 passenger van so I must work for someone because no one would CHOOSE to drive one.

Me: "I don't work for anyone."

Him: "I will find out who you work for. I have your license plate number."

Me: "Okay. Whatever."

As he was leaving, Hubby tried to ask him something but he just kept going. Chicken shit. He can harass a woman but can't answer a question from her husband. Unfortunately, I didn't think of getting his license plate number until it was to late. I would have reported him for harassment.

Then today:

I was picking up my kids from school and the parking lot gets a little out of control. I pulled out in front of someone (this time on accident) and she honked and threw up her hands. (do we see a pattern here?) I didn't do anything back this time. I just kept going. I learned my lesson after the last one.

She FOLLOWED me most of the way home. When we got to the only light by my house, she finally turned. My oldest said that her kid held a sign out the window, but we don't know what it said. I will remember her car. It is a really small school. I will see her everyday for the rest of the year. (She is probably thinking the same thing about me and my car. The only difference? I didn't act all psycho and follow her.)

It's probably my driving. Maybe I drive like my mother and grandmother. But, I have never had these problems before with driving. It makes me want to give up driving.

I remembered to take a picture!

2009-08-25T09:03:00.004-06:00

It's my baby's first day of preschool today. She was so excited!

She is wearing her new school outfit that she picked out. Can you tell she likes pink?

I love this face!

Crock Pot Salsa Chicken

2009-08-18T08:41:00.003-06:00

Sorry, I forgot to take a picture.

8 boneless skinless chicken breasts

2 15 oz. cans corn

2 15 oz. cans beans~kidney, black, pinto, your choice (I used great northern white beans because that's all I had)

2 16 ounce jars salsa (I use one medium heat and one mild)

32 ounces plain yogurt or sour cream (I use yogurt because it is so much lower in fat and calories and when added I can't tell the difference and neither can my kids.)

Shredded cheese

Put all ingredients into the crock pot, except the yogurt and cheese. Cook on high for about 4 hours or low for about 6 to 8 hours.

When chicken is cooked through, shred it as best you can. Add yogurt and stir well. Serve over rice and sprinkle a little cheese over the top.

This recipe feeds the 7 of us with left overs. If you are a small family, cut it in half.

Menu Plan for Week of 8/17/09-8/23/09

2009-08-17T09:02:00.004-06:00

I haven't done a menu the last couple weeks and it really makes a difference. I really like knowing what to make for dinner ahead of time. I noticed I didn't want to eat out or "just grab something" when I had a menu. So, I am going to (hopefully) make it a weekly thing.

I am trying a lot of new dishes this week because I get bored with the same old thing. I will try to post the recipes of the dishes we like.

Monday:

B: Cinnamon raisin toast, yogurt, melon

D: Crockpot salsa chicken, rice, broccoli

Tuesday:

B: Zucchini Bread, apples

D: Tuna patty burgers, tater tots, corn

Wednesday:

B: Cereal

D: Skillet chili mac, salad

Thursday:

B: Oatmeal

D: Pasta Carbonara, bread, salad

Friday: (AKA: the day we spend at the park, usually, hopefully)

B: Egg Muffin Sandwich, grapes

D: Tuna helper (yes, the horrible, easy, boxed stuff), some veggie

Saturday:

B: Baked french toast

D: Quiche, salad

Sunday:

B: Apple Pie muffins

D: Daddy Night because I work through dinner.

The new camera cont....

2009-08-11T07:07:00.001-06:00

Today I am going to buy the memory stick for the new camera, finally. Someday, you all might get to see some pictures.

Woohoo...Go Me!

2009-08-10T08:28:00.003-06:00

I have finally, after 1 1/2 years of trying, hit my first goal weight. When I first started trying to lose weight I weighed 181 pounds and was a size 14. I am now a size 10 in pants and I am, once again, wearing medium tops.

I got on the scale this morning, naked and before eating a darn thing, and it finally said 149.9 pounds. I have been trying to get into the 140's for about a year now. Last summer I reached 155 pounds and I have been anywhere between 155 and 160 pounds since then.

To get to 149.9 I had to really watch my portion sizes. I still eat whatever I want. I just eat a smaller portion of it. For example, instead of eating a whole candy bar I am learning to eat half of it one day and save the other half for another day or make someone share it with me. I also measure EVERYTHING I am eating. Calorie counting has been a good thing for me. I am probably staying around 1200 calories a day.

It's been working out great. Although, I will tell you, the first three weeks were really hard. I found myself really hungry and it was extremely hard to NOT EAT.

I can now honestly say it was totally worth it. 149.9!!!

Well, I did it.

2009-07-28T13:56:00.005-06:00

I sold my pretty camera-Nikon D80.

Which is fine. I mean, let's face it, I didn't have time to learn all the wonderful things it actually does. The things I did know? Well, this pretty LITTLE thing does it all very well:

This is a Sony Cyber-shot H20. It is a more advanced point and shoot with manual capabilities. But, it is way smaller than the Nikon. This thing will actually fit in my purse.

See, Hubby and I made a deal. I would sell the Nikon, but I get to chose a new camera because we need something to take pictures of the kids with. I decided that when the extra lens sold, I would get this beautiful Sony camera. Well, the lens sold and Hubby ordered this for me on Sunday. It is supposed to be here on Monday. (Added bonus? This camera cost me less than that wonderful lens.)

I am disappointed that we had to sell the Nikon. I really liked the idea of being an amateur photographer someday. It still could happen, but right now, I have to prioritize my life and this just wasn't a priority. And, I will still get to have fun playing with the new camera.

Trying something different

2009-07-26T13:24:00.003-06:00

Last night, while working, I decided to make a menu for the week. I want to see if it helps us save money when it comes to grocery shopping. I took into account the meats and other items we already have. Here is what I came up with:

Sunday:

B: Cinnamon Rolls (these were given to us) and some fruit

D: Texas Pinto Beans, Grilled Chicken and cornbread

Monday (Hubby's Birthday):

B: Bisquits and Gravy with Sausage

D: Parmesan Chicken and some veggies

Tuesday:

B: Cereal

D: Meatloaf mini's, mashed potatoes and veggies

Wednesday:

B: 1/2 a cinnamon roll, egg and fruit

D: Bratwurst sausage in a roll with grilled green bell pepper and grilled onion, Salad

Thursday:

B: Cereal

D: Burritos

Friday:

B: Breakfast burrito

D: Crockpot roast with carrots, onions, and potatoes, Crusty bread

Saturday:

B: Apple Pan Goody

D: Daddy night

Sunday:

B: Stuffed French Toast, Fruit

D: Taco Salad

The best thing about having this menu? I feel like I have a plan.

Next Semester

2009-06-30T09:11:00.003-06:00

I think I have my schedule for the next semester planned:

1. Retaking Biology (Since I got a B in the lab last semester, I don't have to take the lab again just the class.)

2. Financial Accounting (I took this about 10 years ago, so hopefully it is still in the dark recesses of my brain.)

3. Economics (My Hubby took this over the summer. Which means, he can help me....Sucker.)

4. Communications (in other words: I get to make four speeches in front of a class over the next 4 months. Yuck.)

I do love school. Well, maybe not school but I love learning. I also love starting a new class. It's new and exciting. And then the second week of school comes and you realize you have probably made a mistake in taking so many. :)

By the way, school doesn't actually start for me until the end of August, Thank God. So, I have a little more time to play with the kids.

I miss my family.

2009-06-24T18:20:00.003-06:00

We left California almost 6 years ago. It was so hard to do. I was born there, raised there, and desperately wanted to raise my children there. I am a family person. Family is the most important thing to me in the world.

I so badly wish I could move back JUST to be near my family. I dream about my sisters dropping by after school and work. I think about hanging out with them and cooking for them and their families. I think of having my mom come over for a glass of wine and talking. How fun would a once a month game night be with the spouses and kids and everyone? We could Bar B Que and just have fun.

I live in Utah. It makes it really hard to be able to do ANY of these things. About once a year, we try and cram all these things into a weekend at Thanksgiving. I love having them here, they don't realize how much I love having them here. I just wish they could be here more.

My Birthday Girls!

2009-06-18T14:19:00.003-06:00

My twin girls are 12 today!

They are spending the day at the movies and the pool. They have requested BBQ ribs, mashed potatoes, and corn on the cob. Of course, I couldn't turn them down.

(We have a lot of birthdays this time of year. Thank God the next kid's birthday isn't until September! Unfortunately, the Hubby's is next month.)

My weekend.

2009-06-15T11:19:00.002-06:00

I just got off of working four days in a row. It was a hard four days.

Every time I leave for work my three year old says "I don't want you to go." Then she cries and has me hug her for about 15 minutes. It sure makes it super hard to leave.

Thursday and Friday were fairly easy nights, just busy. Lot's of calls from the residents for miscellaneous stuff.

Saturday and Sunday I was the Med Tech on duty. Which means, I had to pass out all the medications at dinner time and bedtime.

Saturday it took me the entire shift to get it all done. It was ridiculous. I was so slow. I got so frustrated I ended up asking a co-worker to help me finish. It was bad. (It didn't help that it was the first day of "that time of the month").

Yesterday went much better. I got meds done on time at dinner. Unfortunately, I had to send a very sick resident to the hospital which threw off my bedtime schedule. Oh well. I at least got them done much quicker than the night before.

This was the first time I was on my own for the afternoon shift and I know it will take time to find my groove.

Tomorrow I get to have a Mom's Night Out at a friend's house. I am so excited. It's hard to leave the kids, especially when I have worked the previous four days, but it feels good to hang out and gab with my friend's. Makes for some very nice down time.

Prune juice and other scary stuff.

2009-06-03T22:06:00.002-06:00

Warning: TMI!

Today I went and bought some prune juice because, well, I needed it. When I got home I realized that I hadn't called my mother back, so I did.

Big mistake.

Let's just say that mom likes to talk about scary stuff, like the end of the world, which immediately puts me into major anxiety/panic attack spin. I know she doesn't mean to, she just wants to "warn" us.

Around 7 years ago I started reading the Bible ALOT. I was obsessed with it and what it had to say about the end of times. I also did a TON of research on the internet which always did a good job of scaring the b'jeezus out of me. Who knew what to believe. So, I lived in constant fear for about 3 years. Fear of going anywhere, of seeing people, of the future (especially the future), of dying, and of living. It was horrible.

Eventually, I got a handle on the panic attacks and decided to forego all that research for awhile. All was well.

Until my mom started doing all same research I did back them. She started about 2 weeks ago.

(Mom, I don't know if I can answer the phone anymore.)

One thing she doesn't understand: if the world goes into tribulations like the bible says, which has been translated by the church, I lose my husband. Period. No buying insulin. No insulin, he dies. And she wonders why it scares me so much. (well, and all the other scary stuff that is supposed to happen.)

Sometimes the anxiety and fear is so bad that I have to leave the house. I get so antsy. Tonight I had to get out. The kids and I went and had chips and queso and some dessert at a local restaurant (well, the kids did. My stomach is in to many knots to eat anything). As we were waiting for our food, I noticed the 3 year old had a fever. I sure hope it doesn't last long and isn't serious.

Good news: I don't have to drink the prune juice. The fear did all the work.

I stole this from my sister's blog because I had to.

2009-06-02T06:51:00.002-06:00

Original Post

Twilight- Breaking Dawn Preview

Work~Semi Promotion Update

2009-05-26T20:48:00.004-06:00

Do you ever want to blog but have nothing to say or don't know what to start with? Right now, I have the biggest urge to write, but I really don't know what to talk about. So much has been going on.

Let's start with a really good weekend. I only had to work one night shift. I am scheduled for one more this coming weekend but, hopefully, that will be the last. I have been training someone for the last couple of weekends and she is doing great! I am so glad they found her so quickly after I told them I couldn't do nights anymore.

I just realized that I haven't told you all this stuff yet. Now I know what to talk about.

My husband is a Type 1 Diabetic. He has been since he was about 18 months old. (His parents did a really good job with his health. He has no medical problems so far because of his diabetes.) He has had a lot of nights where is blood sugar drops super low and he has little seizures/convulsions. I ALWAYS wake up when he gets low, usually just before the seizures begin.

Over the last 9-12 months he hasn't had one episode, which is unusual. I think while he was younger, the hormones in him were so out of whack, it was harder to maintain consistent blood sugar levels. Well, with the weather getting warmer (temperature changes do make a difference with him) he had a low blood sugar episode about 3 weeks ago at around 1 am. As I was trying to get some sugar into him I started thinking. What if I had been at work? Nobody would know he was having a problem until I got home 5 HOURS LATER!

The next day I went to my boss and told her how sorry I was but I can not, under any circumstance, work nights. She told me she would find someone and I would just need to help train that person. She found someone two days later.

What's ironic is neither one of us, my husband or I, even thought about his diabetes once while making the decision to accept the new position. I am very glad that his low episode happened while I was home and not while I was gone.

So, I have one more night shift to work and then I am done, I think. I haven't seen the new schedule yet but, I can't see her scheduling me for anymore.

My Birthday Girl!

2009-05-24T10:57:00.002-06:00

She is 3 years old today!

When you give a man toys...

2009-05-22T09:49:00.004-06:00

and the bar-b-que loses all it's propane:

Do you see the smile?!

Long over due.

2009-05-19T19:31:00.002-06:00

I have to retake Biology. I ended up with a D+ in the class. I was so mad. The least I could have done was fail it utterly and completely. But a D+?! That's almost a C. Luckily, I don't have to redo the Lab that went with the class, which will save me about 5 hours a week. The summer class is already closed, but I am going to talk to the professor about adding it on anyway. Usually they say yes.

I am also going to take a class on Quickbooks during the summer. I know Quickbooks is supposed to be soooo easy, but I am one of those retarded people that makes a mountain out of a mole hill. I think this class will help me with running our business here at home. (We own a small business out of the house that deals with commercial cleaning.)

This week is a very busy week. Our kids have their last day of school on Friday. Which means a whole lot of last minute activities at their school that I have to help with (I don't really mind, I actually miss helping out at their school), including one very special 8th grade graduation dinner and ceremony, you know C thinks he is no longer a child because he is starting high school next year.

The kids are very excited for summer break. I am too. I can't wait to have them home so we can sleep in, go to the pool, sleep in, go on little day trips, sleep in, and just be. It will be a nice break. And then week two will pass and I will realize they are driving me crazy and that they won't be going back for two more months...

Sunrise

2009-05-16T10:23:00.005-06:00

I just had to share these pictures too. They have not been doctored in any way. These are the originals.

I love desert sunrises!

Random

2009-05-14T08:46:00.002-06:00

I was going through some pictures and just had to share these two. We were at a baseball game kind of late in the evening and these two could not stay awake.

I just love these pictures!

I have a Birthday Boy!

2009-05-04T15:48:00.004-06:00

My oldest turns 14 tomorrow!

Luckily, we gave up birthday parties about 4 years ago. We do parties at "special" ages now: 5 because this is the first year they are in school, 10 because it's double digits, 13 because this is officially the teenage year, 16 because you can drive, and then 18 because I can finally kick them out of the house!! (I will admit that I do like to throw one at 6 or 7 just because.)

On the "off" party years, the kids get to invite one friend to come over for the day and have dinner, play games, and just hang out. They love being able to invite that one special friend and it makes the party years that much more special.

Back to my oldest. He was born 5 weeks early at 5 pounds 3 ounces. He was so tiny, I bathed him in the tiny bathroom sink. Now, he wear's a size 13 men's shoe and is just about 6 feet tall and he has another 6 or 7 years to grow!

In two years he will be able to drive and in four years he can move out.

I can't believe how fast the time goes and yet, not fast enough (because the boy has a serious attitude problem at times.)

Meet my brother.

2009-04-28T09:00:00.004-06:00

I was going through some pictures this morning and found these of my brother that I just HAD to share with the entire blogging world.

Every Thanksgiving, my family comes to Utah from So. Cal. to spend the weekend with us. We have a lot of fun together. On Thanksgiving, there is usually a bit of drinking. Most of us are used to it and some of us are still building up our tolerance...

This can't be comfortable.

And never pass out while your sisters have control of a permanent marker and your feet:

Semi-Promotion

2009-04-21T07:46:00.002-06:00

I got offered a promotion at work. The title is Med Tech. A Med Tech is a CNA who is allowed to give out medications to patients. (At least where I work). The only problem is they want me to work the middle of the night shift. Yuck.

I took the position. I told my boss that I would give it a try. I am nervous about being able to stay awake on that shift, but it will only be two nights a week. I went through a whole pro and con list and the pros for taking it totally out weigh the cons.

1. It will look really good to have this title when I apply for the nursing program in the fall. The program is extremely competitive and any job experience and promotions within will help, a lot.

2. I get a little raise. Money is always a nice incentive.

3. Most of the residents will be sleeping and it will provide some good study time.

I also want to find out if the building has wireless. I would really like to bring my computer. It would help me stay awake.

Wish me luck!

Finals are next week and I have a TON of studying to do. I can't believe the semester is almost over. I am so excited. Now I am just praying that I pass my biology class. If I don't, I have to retake it. Which means I can't take anatomy in the summer and I won't be able to apply for the nursing program until the spring.

Yeah, no stress there! (Definite sarcasm here)

Cinnamon Rolls

2009-04-13T12:19:00.002-06:00

For some really yummy cinnamon rolls:

Take this recipe: The Pioneer Woman Cinnamon Rolls

and this frosting:

Caramel Glaze

1/3 Cup evaporated milk

2 Tbsp. brown sugar

1 1/2 Cups powdered sugar

1 tsp. vanilla

In a small pot over medium heat, mix the evaporated milk with the brown sugar, stirring constantly, until the mixture starts to boil. Remove from heat. Add in powdered sugar and vanilla and mix with some sort of electric mixer until creamy, about 2 minutes. Pour over cinnamon rolls.

If you want enough frosting to cover ALL the cinnamon rolls from The Pioneer Woman, triple the batch.

I really like The Pioneer Woman's dough. They turn out great and I can freeze a bunch of pans before letting them rise. (When you want cinnamon rolls, take the pan out of the freezer and set on your counter. As the dough defrosts, they will rise.) I just don't like her glaze much.

Unfortunately, there are no pictures at this time. As soon as I make some more I will try to remember to take a picture before we devour them.

Weight Loss

2009-04-08T20:54:00.003-06:00

For over a year, I have been participating in a contest at my kid's school. I have been apart of a Biggest Loser contest. Each person had to put in $100. to participate and at the end of the contest someone will receive a large chunk of money, about $500 this time. (Last time, the winner won $2000. We didn't get very many sign ups this time.)

Until lately, I haven't really cared about trying to lose any more weight. I lost 28 pounds last spring and I was happy with where I was, 154 pounds. A little thick, but I hold it well.

Over Thanksgiving and Christmas I started to hover around 160 pounds. Not good. I did not want to go back up to 180 something again. But, I just didn't have the motivation to get it off. Quite frankly, I just didn't care. With all the pressures of life right now, it wasn't a priority.

About 2 weeks ago, I decided to go ahead and try. I somehow had the motivation again to start losing weight again. I normally do this by counting calories. This works well, don't get me wrong, but I don't want to count calories anymore. So, I decided that I was maintaining my weight with the portions I was eating, I am now going to eat 1/2 of my normal portions. Instead of a whole sandwich and a side for lunch, I eat 1/2 of one and a smaller side. My two year old eats the other half and she gets all excited that she get to share with mommy.

It's working. I started 2 weeks ago at just about 160 pounds. Last week I was at 155.5 pounds.

Tonight when I weighed in: 151.4 pounds.

I am just about to reach my first goal of 149.9 pounds! I haven't been that small since my oldest was a baby. I just can't believe it.

Goal for the next week: To lose 1.5 pounds.

4 Weeks Left

2009-04-02T10:43:00.002-06:00

My semester ends in 4 weeks! I am so excited. I just hope I don't blow it here at the end.

My first week off is the week of May 1st. Which means, I will get about 2 weeks home while the kids are still in school. Hopefully, I will take those couple of weeks and really organize the house back up before everyone is home for the summer.

I do know that MY summer is going to be short lived. I start Anatomy sometime around June 1st. Time is flying. I get to apply for the nursing program in September. Wow.

Oh Shit. I have to get my shots and background check done.

A very shitty weekend.

2009-04-01T12:03:00.000-06:00

Turns out I was pregnant. I miscarried on Friday night. While we would have loved this baby very much, now is not the time for another kid. Trust me. I would have to quit school because I can't go through the nursing program while pregnant.

It still wasn't very comfortable. It was quite painful actually. I once had someone tell me that a miscarriage really early on was slightly more painful than menstrual cramps. My Ass ! My menstrual cramps feel nothing like that did and I would have only been 5 weeks along. I ended up taking 800 mg of Ibuprofen to ease the pain. I never have to take anything during my menstrual.

Saturday I woke up late and was feeling pretty good. So, I decided to go to one of our local grocery stores and get donuts for the kids. Of course I had to eat one with them. A cinnamon roll. They used to be my favorite. Unfortunately, this cinnamon roll didn't sit well in my tummy. I got to have the lovely chance of throwing up four or five times throughout the rest of the day and feeling very yucky the next.

The only good thing about my weekend: I only got to work one day.

Out Of Control Rambling.

2009-03-28T10:41:00.000-06:00

This is how I feel most of the time. Going to school, working, spending time with the family, and, if I can make the time, studying.

Spring break was a mistake. I should have insisted to the school that we cancel spring break until I am done at the college. (No, I really don't care about the hundreds of other people that are there.) Spring break made me remember what life used to be like for me. I miss it. Kind of. It would be nice to if I could ONLY do school right now and start working when school is over. But, work experience will help me get into the Nursing program and since it is competitive, I would like any "help" I can get.

I apply in September for the Nursing program. Maybe I can quit after that. So, 6 more months. Yuck. Or maybe I will just get used to my new life and quit wishing I had some aspects of my old life back. It will get better, even if it is in two and half years when my school is over.

It's been awhile.

2009-03-26T15:23:00.000-06:00

I realize I haven't posted in over a week and I apologize for that. Last week was great. I decided to turn spring break into a mini vacation. I read two books, including the fourth Twilight book called Breaking Dawn (I really liked it and I hope she writes another one in the series). We went to the community pool a couple times and I cooked EVERY meal (I love to cook!). We got some of the backyard done and we filed our taxes.....Yay!

Did I mention that I did not use the alarm clock once! I slept until 8 am every single morning, it was great. It was great week and my house is STILL a mess. That's ok though. The semester ends in just over a month and then we can get the house spotless.